Marktplatz, 100 block of West Main Street

At the 41st Oktoberfest, celebrate the fun and flavor of Fredericksburg's German heritage with three days of music, food, drink, dancing, arts and crafts, and children's entertainment.

oktoberfestinfbg.com

Pace Park, Pace Park Road

Celebrate the legend of the Salado mermaid, Sirena. Family-friendly festivities include a parade and vendors. Proceeds from the event go directly to Legacy Salado Inc., a local nonprofit, to aid in the construction of an all-abilities playground in the Village of Salado.

sirenafest.org

Centennial Park, 700 N. Main

Bring your loved ones for a family-friendly day of live music, vendors, a petting zoo, pony rides, good food, and bounce houses.

shophuntingtontexas.com

Downtown Dime Box

Hosted by the Dime Box Lions Club Foundation, proceeds benefit Lions projects and Black Bridge Park. Runs include a mini marathon and 2-mile run and walk. Dog races, an art fair, quilt show, rodeo, parade, games, food, and children's activities complete the day. A dance is held at the SPJST Hall.

dimeboxlionsclub.com

Plano Event Center, 2000 E. Spring Creek Parkway

Experience the largest model train show in the North Dallas area. Everyone's welcome—from the novice to the seasoned engineer. The return of the Fall Plano Train Show includes train club layouts, how-to clinics, and vendors. Children 12 and under are free.

dfwtrainshows.com

Love Creek Apple Orchard, 14024 SH 16 North

The pumpkin patch is open Saturday through Monday (closed Oct. 31). Admission includes pumpkin painting, an apple orchard tour, farm animals, games, a hayride, hay maze, storytelling, scarecrow building, and sing-alongs. Don’t forget to play an instrument in the Great Hill Country Symphony and enjoy tree ripened apples, an old-fashioned sweet cider press, and apple goodies.

lovecreekorchards.com

Pipe Creek Tree Farm, 805 Phil's Road

Open weekends, this event features a haystack, hop ball, scarecrow dressing, visiting with farm animals, a large sandbox, rubber duck races, pumpkin painting, photo ops, and strolling through 6,000 Christmas trees.

pipecreekpumpkinpatch.com

Historic Jefferson Railway, 400 E. Austin St.

Every Saturday in October, bring the family for these narrated day and night family-friendly train rides. The Halloween Express includes vignettes along the railroad track featuring “The Twisted Woods.” You may see a ghostly spirit or monster emerge from the swamplands of East Texas. While there may be a startle or two, this is not a scary train ride.

jeffersonrailway.com

Mesquite Arena, 1818 Rodeo Drive

Watch young bullriders, ages 4-18, from across the world compete for a grand prize and exclusive title of World Champion Mini Bull Rider.

visitmesquitetx.com

Aransas Navigation District, 100 Seabreeze Drive

Seafair celebrates its 47th year on the bayfront on Aransas Navigation District festival grounds. This fun festival has a gumbo cookoff, hilarious crab races, arts and crafts, a market, food vendors, an outdoor boat show, and live big-name and local entertainment including Cory Morrow.

rocktportseafair.com

Cuero Municipal Park, Leonard Roy Harmon Drive

Held annually the second weekend of October, the 50th Turkeyfest features food, dances, a parade, entertainment for the whole family, and of course the final heat in the “Great Gobbler Gallop” turkey race to see which town gets the title of “Turkey Capital of the World.”

turkeyfest.org

Sam Houston Park and along Allen Parkway

Bayou City Art Festival celebrates 50 years of providing unique art experiences and education for the greater Houston area. As one of the top art festivals in the country, the outdoor gallery an opportunity to meet artists, view original works, and purchase one-of-a-kind art, world-class paintings, prints, and other items. The festival features two entertainment stages, a food truck park, beverage stations, art installations, and the Active Imagination Zone with hands-on art activities for all ages. This year's featured artist is Cindy Olmes, a mixed-media artist from Cincinnati, who showcases her work along with 250 artists from around the country.

artcolonyassociation.org

Garnett Field at McNiel Junior High, 4712 Barnett Road

Bring the family out to unite for a common cause and raise funds for The Arc of Wichita County and Play for All Community Playground at the 2022 Wichita Falls Buddy Walk. Whether you have Down syndrome, know someone who does, or just want to show your support, take the first step and donate or register today. Enjoy bounce houses, food trucks, music, prizes, carnival games, raffle drawings, and other activities.

ds-stride.org/wichitafallsbuddywalk

Kell House Museum, 900 Bluff St.

Wear your wildest clothes and join in the fun of an interactive showing of the tea party scene from the classic "Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland" by Lewis Carroll. Learn about Victorian tea customs while snacking on punch and cake and discover historic lawn games such as croquet. Enjoy a morning the way the Kell children might have over 100 years ago.

kellhouseheritagecenter.org

Marktplatz, 100 block of West Main Street

Not quite Oktoberfest but the Bestfest, with specialty beer and sausage tastings, live music and polka bands, prizes, games for kids, and proceeds benefiting local charities.

kcbestfest.com

Haggard Park, 901 E. 15th St.

Tour the world and improve your wellness at the Plano International Festival. The area’s largest cultural event has food, fun, and entertainment for the whole family. Enjoy multicultural music and dance performances, ethnic food trucks, cultural displays, and other festivities from over 100 cultures. Kids can explore STEAM activities plus travel the booths with a virtual passport. Come early for free flu and COVID shots and a variety of health screenings.

planointernationalfestival.org

Valley Creek Park, 2482 Pioneer Road

Mesquite's annual fall festival includes a pumpkin-decorating contest, petting zoo, haunted house, carnival games, jousting, a falconry show, and other family-friendly festivities.

visitmesquitetx.com

Peterson Plaza, Downtown Kerrville, Main Street

This annual street painting festival celebrates chalk art, with kids' chalk zones, free family activities, great food, and music.

kerrvillechalk.org

Dinosaur Park, 413 W. Colorado St.

Celebrate the restoration of the historic Colorado River Bridge with food trucks and music.

whartonchamber.com

Historic Downtown Elgin , 109 Depot St.

Held the fourth Saturday of October, this festival features handmade arts and crafts, live music, food, kids' activities, and plenty of pig puns to go around. Events include Lindsy Kay Wing Children's Costume Pet Parade, Road Hog Car Show, Gordon Swenson Memorial Barbecue Pork-Off, a carnival, cow patty bingo. Before the main event, the Hogeye Stroll, "Pearls Before Swine Art Show," and the Hogalicious Dessert Contest take place on Oct. 20. And on Oct. 21 is a street dance with Kenny Orts and No Chance.

hogeyefestival.com

First Lutheran Church, 2415 Winnie St.

Island Oktoberfest brings the “oompah” back to Galveston for its 40th year. At the city's premier fall festival, visitors can revel in German heritage with a full weekend of food, drinks, live performances, games, and special activities. Guests are encouraged to wear German costumes.

galvestonoktoberfest.com

Yorktown Western Days, 100 N. Riedel St.

This fun family festival, held in Yorktown's Downtown City Park, includes music, parades, cookoffs, vendors, a kids' tractor pull, mutton bustin', a quilt show, an arrowhead exhibition, a pig scramble, and stick horse rodeo; plus, the Yorktown Historical Museum is open.

yorktowntx.com

South Main Street, 1915 Veterans Blvd.

Enjoy a small-town parade with music, food trucks, and vendors.

Opal Lawrence Historical Park, 701 E. Kearney Road

Fall is the time to plant Texas bluebonnet seeds. Head to Opal Lawrence Historical Park to stomp some seeds into the ground for next spring.

visitmesquitetx.com

Kerrville Olympic Pool, 601 Olympic Drive

With family-friendly tours and scarier haunted tours, this event offers a night of goosebumps, spooks, and screams as Olympic Pool is transformed into a ghoulish haunted house.

kerrvilletx.gov

Palestine High School Auditorium, 1600 Texas 256 Loop 

This Branson-style music show is filled with family fun, laughter, and great classic country music from talented artists. Listen to some of the golden hits in country music performed live onstage.

dogwoodjamboree.com

Frontier Times Museum, 510 13th St.

On the fourth Sunday of each month, the Frontier Times Museum hosts this family-friendly event that offers live music, storytelling, and other performances.

frontiertimesmuseum.org

Travis and Wall streets , 100 N. Travis St.

This eighth annual trick-or-treat event in historic downtown Sherman is a safe, family-friendly way to kick off Halloween and let kiddos show off their costumes. The party takes place on North Travis Street from Houston up to the Chase Bank, and on Wall Street from Travis Street to North Walnut.

shermantx.org

Barrow Brewing Company, 108 Royal St.

Celebrate Oktoberfest with your furry family members. Dress your pet to impress for the dog parade and costume contest. This event is free to attend and raises money for the Bell County Animal Shelter.

barrowbrewing.com/events

True Grit Ranch, 6810 Old Granbury Road

Tough Mudder hosts a 10-mile, 25-obstacle classic event, along with a 5K with 13 obstacles. There are also kids' events, featuring age-specific distances and obstacles designed for ages 5 to 12.

visitgranbury.com/mudder

Downtown Huntsville, 1203 University Ave.

This spooky festival offers games, activities, giveaways, crafts, and trick-or-treating for all ages. Get in the spirit and dress in your best Halloween costume to be entered into the costume contest.

huntsvillemainstreet.com

Kell House Museum, 900 Bluff St.

Bring the family and enjoy fall-themed actvities on the Kell House grounds. Decorate a pumpkin, play games, participate in a scavenger hunt, and snap some fall pictures.

kellhouseheritagecenter.org

Central Park, 201 S. Austin St.

At this celebration of all things pecan and Seguin's agricultural heritage, visitors can take photos with the World's Largest Pecan, shop with vendors, enjoy live music, and honor the state's official nut.

seguingonuts.com

Black Rifle Coffee Co., 101 S. Main St.

At this family-friendly event, enjoy live music, a car show, and food and beverages from participating businesses.

ci.boerne.tx.us

Cave Without a Name Throne Room, 325 Kreutzberg Road

The Rahim Quazi Trio returns with an eerie evening in the Cave Throne Room just before Halloween. The cave is haunted with tales and songs including "Moonlight Sonata" (played in total darkness), the themes from "Young Frankenstein" and "A Nightmare Before Christmas," Danse Macabre, plus the haunting melodies from Rahim Quazi's album "Ghost Hunting."

cavewithoutaname.com

Gladys Porter Zoo, 500 Ringgold St.

Join the Gladys Porter Zoo for a spooky good time, with trick-or-treating, carnival-style games, mermaids, and fun Halloween-themed activities.

gpz.org

Louise Hays Park, 202 Thompson Drive

The Parks and Recreation Department invites all ghosts, goblins, and creatures of the night to join in for an evening of safe and traditional family fun at the park. Activities include trick or treating, games, and a costume contest.

kerrvilletx.gov

Historic Downtown Elgin , 109 Depot St.

Dia de los Muertos (or Day of the Dead) is a traditional holiday in Mexico and Latin America that honors life and death by turning mourning into a celebration. Friends and family gather together to remember and pray for loved ones who have died. This event offers traditional altars, sugar skulls, children's activities, and music.

elgintx.com

Sugar Land Town Square, 2711 Plaza Drive

Come out to enjoy Country Now and Then, a live music program featuring country favorites that appeal to all generations of country music fans.

sugarlandtownsquare.com

Old Settler's Heritage Association, 3300 E. Palm Valley Blvd.

Bring the kids to the 29th annual Fossil Fest to meet scientists, dig for fossils, check out specimens from around the world, and participate in family-friendly workshops.

austinpaleo.org/fest.html

Various locations

The festival has evolved into one of the premier literary events in the country and hosts about 250 authors each year. Join other bookworms for readings, panel discussions, signings, cooking demonstrations, live music, local food, YA authors, children's activities, and fun literary-related happenings like the annual Lit Crawl. This year's event takes place at Symphony Square and Austin Central Library.

texasbookfestival.org

San Antonio Botanical Garden, 555 Funston Place

Over one million lights and festive displays return to San Antonio Botanical Garden. In its second year, the outdoor illuminated trail includes new installations and favorites like the Winter Cathedral set to seasonal music along a 1-mile path that winds through the garden. More than 80 percent of this year's trail features installations never seen before in San Antonio. In addition to the captivating light displays, guests have an opportunity to enjoy festive food and drinks, including roasting s'mores.

sabot.org/lightscape

Galveston Railroad Museum, 2602 Santa Fe Place

Passengers are immersed in the sights and sounds of the classic children's novel as they are whisked away to the North Pole to meet Santa.

galvestonrrmuseum.org

McCall Plaza, 998 E. 15th St.

The Secret Society Club and Plano Stages present volume 7 of the Underground Movement Festival, an event that brings the culture of hip-hop movement from underground. This is an all-ages, family-friendly event.

visitplano.com/event/underground-movement-festival-vol-7

NorthPark Center, 8687 N. Central Expressway

This favorite holiday tradition for generations of Dallasites includes 1,600 feet of track rolling from coast to coast on a whimsical rail journey across America. The model trains travel from the autumn foliage of New England to San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge with stops along the way to see New York City, Washington, D.C., Dallas, and the desert Southwest including the Grand Canyon and the Garden of the Gods.

thetrainsatnorthpark.com

Majical Wonderland, 2161 FM 315

Enjoy a stroll through a self-guided magical lit-up wonderland. Take pictures with Santa, sip warm hot chocolate, and indulge in lots of goodies available for purchase.

visitpalestine.com/walkoflights

Texas State Railroad, Palestine Depot, 789 Park Road 70

The Palestine depot offers a festive holiday setting that features lights, tinsel, garland, and costumed characters sure to excite and inspire every child and adult. The magical story comes to life the minute the train departs the Palestine Depot for the journey to the North Pole.

texasstaterailroad.net

The Texas Jailhouse, 704 Ave. A

He's mean, he's green, and he's in Palestine. This Christmas season don't miss a rare opportunity to come see Mr. Grinch in his Texas Jailhouse home in Palestine.

facebook.com/thetexasjailhouse

Historic Main Street

Just when you thought the Christmas Capital of Texas couldn’t get any bigger, the Grapevine Convention and Visitors Bureau offers an all new attraction for the 2022 holiday season, a 4,500-square-foot outdoor ice-skating rink on Historic Main Street. The rink stays open for 52 days and adds to the list of more than 1,400 attractions and events Grapevine hosts over 40 days during the holiday season.

grapevinetexasusa.com/christmas-capital-of-texas

Moody Gardens, 1 Hope Boulevard

Part of Holiday in the Gardens, come see 2 million pounds of colorful ice carved into shapes of sea creatures in a chilled structure (parkas provided). Other holiday festivities include the Festival of Lights Trail, Arctic Slide, train ride, and ice skating rink.

moodygardens.org

Gruene Historic District

Nearly 100 vendors offer uniquely crafted items and packaged Texas foods. Reserve a spot in advance to create a lasting Christmas memory with Cowboy Kringle, Gruene's own brand of Santa.

holidaysingruene.com

Kerr County Courthouse, 700 Main St.

Officially welcome the holiday season, and most importantly the arrival of Santa Clause riding in on his signature fire truck, at this holiday event. Grab your hot cocoa and join others for this annual downtown community tradition.

kerrvilletx.gov

Magik Theatre, 420 S. Alamo St.

The Magikal Theatre presents this retelling of the classic children's story about a boy who receives a stuffed rabbit sewn from velveteen as a present on Christmas Day. When another toy is lost, the rabbit quickly becomes the boy's new favorite. As the rabbit's dapper appearance gets worn and shabby from play, a wonderful change begins to happen. Enjoy this holiday season the heart-warming and much-loved story about a shy toy rabbit who longs for nothing more than to become real.

magiktheatre.org

Frisco Square, Frisco Square

The largest choreographed lights and music display in North Texas features more than 175,000 lights, 11.5 miles of wiring, and over 8 miles of extension cords. Visitors may tune in to 107.3 FM on the radio in their vehicles, or listen to the music piped through speakers as they take a walk through the square. This year's event includes Skate the Square, an outdoor ice skating rink, as well as a Christmas tree lot.

friscosquare.com/cits-overview

Gruene Historic District

Start your Thanksgiving day with the 14th annual 5K run/walk through Gruene Historic District. Kids under 12 years old have a blast chasing a turkey mascot for a quarter mile. Races begin and end in front of Gruene Hall and benefit local charities, including the Comal County Sheriff's Green Santa Program and the New Braunfels Police Department Blue Santa Program.

holidaysingruene.com

Stephen C. Beachy Central Park, 1000 Krenek Tap Road

Guests can continue the family tradition of viewing more than 1 million lights that decorate 47-acre Stephen C. Beachy Central Park. Don't forget to bring your wish list for Santa. The staff also has made arrangements with his elves to accept letters for Santa in the North Pole mailbox outside the Central Park office.

cstx.gov/christmas

Lynn Creek Park, 5610 Lake Ridge Parkway

See one of the premier holiday light parks in Texas, located at Lynn Creek Park on Joe Pool Lake in Grand Prairie. Upon arriving at the entrance of Prairie Lights, be dazzled by 4 million lights set along 2 miles of path. Hundreds of all-new displays line and arch over the roads.

prairielights.org

Eisemann Center, 2351 Performance Drive

Chamberlain Ballet began staging "The Nutcracker" in 1989. Over the years, this holiday tradition has grown to become a favorite for thousands of North Texas families.

chamberlainballet.org

Gruene Historic District

Reserve a spot in advance to create a lasting Christmas memory with Cowboy Kringle, Gruene's own brand of Santa.

holidaysingruene.com

Hill Country Mile, 100 N. Main St. 

Boerne’s historic Hill Country Mile transforms into a vintage Christmas experience, with nonstop entertainment in various holiday villages set up throughout the venue. The celebration’s main attractions include live music and performances, visits with Santa Claus, ice sculpting, children’s take-home crafts, snow along Main Street, roving musicians, carolers, and other revelers.

adickenscelebration.com

Courthouse Square, One block off Main Street

The twinkliest town in the Hill Country celebrates its 33rd annual Lights Spectacular. See Johnson City as it transforms itself from a slow-paced, presidential hometown nestled on the banks of the Pedernales River into a bright beacon of light welcoming visitors with good old-fashioned Christmas cheer.

lightsspectacular.com

South Texas Botanical Gardens and Nature Center, 8545 S. Staples St.

Celebrate the joys of the season featuring environmental artist Shelia Rogers' latest recycling exhibit, "Eco Christmas Tree," an 18-foot-tiered, lit-from-within, holiday masterpiece created from recycled green plastic bottles collected by the community. The traditional Holly-Days 20-foot lighted fir tree once again adorns the Rose Garden, with smaller-themed trees and lighted displays throughout the Gardens. The event also offers hayrides, cocoa, cider, s'mores over fire pits, Santa, and other festivities.

stxbot.org

Carnegie Library Building, 502 N. Queen St.

Climb into a beautiful antique carriage and enjoy a ride throughout the Palestine Historic Main Street District aglow with holiday lighting. Rides take place Fridays and Saturdays and can hold two to four adults (larger groups may be accommodated if children are included).

facebook.com/oldtowncarriageservice

Heritage Farmstead Museum, 1900 W. 15th St.

For one month, Heritage Farmstead Museum is bedazzled with more than 1 million twinkling holiday lights and filled with animated yuletide displays. The outdoor event features a quarter-mile trail showcasing light creations and animated displays. Guests also enjoy a 20-foot Christmas tree, refreshments such as hot cocoa and make-your-own s’mores, and a chance for the youngest guests to visit with Santa.

heritagefarmstead.org

Granbury Square, 100 E. Pearl St.

Historic Granbury Merchant’s Association hosts the Lighted Christmas Parade that starts on Hannaford Street at Pearl Street. The parade proceeds towards Courthouse Square.

visitgranbury.com/events/annual-events/christmas-in-granbury

Hood County Courthouse Gazebo, 100 E Pearl St.

On the historic Granbury Square behind the courthouse, Santa and Mrs. Claus return to Granbury. Bring your children, friends, family, and pets to spend time and take pictures with everyone’s favorite couple this holiday season.

visitgranbury.com/events/annual-events/christmas-in-granbury

Downtown and Lions Park

After the parade, which travels through Jefferson and ends at Lions Park, stick around for the "Enchanted Forest" tree lighting ceremony. Be inspired as 100-plus beautifully decorated christmas trees light up and ring in the holidays. Festivities also include Christmas carol singing and a visit from Santa.

visitjeffersontexas.com

Frontier Times Museum, 510 13th St.

On the fourth Sunday of each month, the Frontier Times Museum hosts this family-friendly event that offers live music, storytelling, and other performances.

frontiertimesmuseum.org

Rosewood Center, 5938 Skillman St.

Dallas Children's Theater presents Grammy-winning musician Harry Connick, Jr.'s holiday jazz musical. Eubie is, much to the exhaustion of his co-workers, an elf of unparalleled and endless energy looking to get a spot on Santa’s coveted sleigh team. When his unstoppably sunny spirit comes into contact with the miserable town of Bluesville—where every single child is on the naughty list—he’s in for the shock of a lifetime. Will his relentless positive attitude be enough to turn this gloomy place around, or has the happiest elf in the North Pole finally met his match?

dct.org

Kell House Museum, 900 Bluff St.

Santa and company invite you for a visit to their Texas home for the holidays. Santa’s elves guide visitors of all ages through a magical Christmas wonderland, including the original play “The Magical Rocking Horse, Part I,” a visit with Santa himself, a stop in Mrs. Claus’ kitchen for a cookie, and then step into Santa’s workshop to make an ornament to take home.

kellhouseheritagecenter.org

Dr. Jim Vaszauskas Center for the Performing Arts, 1110 W. Debbie Lane

Find two great Mansfield traditions combined into four days of holiday magic. Get ready for midway rides, an ice slide, carnival games, interactive arts, Santa visits, food vendors, Toys for Tots drop-offs, and special highlights each day including a tree lighting and fireworks show.

mansfieldhometownholidays.com

Central Park, 201 S. Austin St.

Featuring 70-plus entries all decked out in lights, this parade starts at the intersection of Austin and College streets and travels south to Central Park. At the end of the parade, the mayor hits the switch to turn on the lights in downtown, and Santa is available for photo opportunities.

visitseguin.com

Texas Trust CU Theatre at Grand Prairie, 1001 Texas Trust Way

Cirque du Soleil takes a modern spin on a holiday classic with its very first Christmas show. See performances full of Christmas cheer, exhilarating fun, and lovable characters for the whole family to enjoy.

texastrustcutheatre.com

Freeport Municipal Park

Enjoy holiday festivities on the banks of the Old Brazos River including a special appearance from Santa Claus and a lighted boat parade.

freeport.tx.us

Enchanted Springs Ranch, 242 SH 46

This fest delights attendees with holiday flavors and favorite traditions. Stroll through more than 2 million twinkling lights in an authentic Old West town, then enjoy live music, snacks, and drinks. Shop at the local artisan handmade market and visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Snap photos at the digital photo booth, meet animals at the petting zoo, or let the kids run free on an inflatable jumping pad.

christmaslightfest.com

Legacy Drive at Archgate Drive

Deerfield, a community in Northwest Plano, is known for its holiday and Christmas light displays. Every year the city offers carriage rides and plenty of houses lit up to get visitors in the Christmas spirit.

facebook.com/deerfieldplanotexas/events

Downtown Goliad

Goliad County Historical Commission’s 39th annual Christmas in Goliad features Friday night festivities, including homemade-handmade booths and a lighted parade. Saturday morning, everything opens back up and goes till 4 p.m., with Santa arriving on the square at high noon on the back of a "reinsteer." Other Saturday activities include live music, special dance performances, a best-dressed dog contest, and Miss Ruby’s Corral, with Texas authors ready to sign their books.

facebook.com/christmasingoliad

Stephen C. Beachy Central Park, 1000 Krenek Tap Road

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas in College Station. Bring the family or your friends and take an old-fashioned hayride, then stay for cookies, hot cocoa, live entertainment, real snow slides, photos with Santa, and a children's train.

cstx.gov/christmas

Downtown Amarillo , Polk Street

Kick off the holiday season with the Center City Electric Light Parade in downtown Amarillo. This year's theme is "March of the Toys." The parade includes visits with Mr. and Mrs. Clause, food vendors, music, and the lighting of the city's Christmas tree.

centercity.org/lightparade

Maxwell's Pumpkin Farm , 12908 Bell St.

Celebrate the holiday season with more than 20 activities at Maxwell's Pumpkin Farm, including visits from Santa, the Trail of Lights, and a Christmas market.

maxwellspumpkinfarm.com

Uptown Theater, 120 E. Main St.

Based on the beloved Christmas classic, the musical brings Ralphie and his dream of Santa bringing him a Red Ryder BB gun to life through a delightful score.

uptowntheatergp.com

The re-creation of the town of Bethlehem and the events that took place on the night of Christ's birth comes complete with live camels and characters in period costume. The event is located behind Central Presbyterian Church.

waxahachiecvb.com

Main Street

Sponsored by the Fredericksburg Chamber of Commerce, this event lets you see Fredericksburg's historic Main Street awash in the glow of an illuminated holiday night parade. 

lightthenightchristmasparade.com

Haggard Park, 901 E. 15th St.

Kick off the season with Dickens, a free annual event nestled in the heart of the Historic Downtown Plano Arts District with holiday-themed activities, a tree lighting, and other family fun.

visitplano.com/event/dickens-in-downtown-plano-2022

Downtown Huntsville, 1203 University Ave.

Come to downtown Huntsville for Christmas performances, a special Christmas book reading for kids, snow, food, crafts, games, Santa Claus, and other holiday festivities.

huntsvillemainstreet.com

Wayne Ferguson Plaza, Old Town, 150 W. Church St.

Ring in the holiday season at this family-friendly event. Highlights include the Selfies with Santa, Motorcycle Toy Run, Huffines Christmas Parade, Elf Scavenger Hunt, and Lewisville Lights. Also, enjoy the tree lighting ceremony, winter carnival attractions, a movie in the Plaza, and carriage rides through Old Town Historic Home District.

oldtownlewisville.com

Downtown, 105 Main St.

This Christmas celebration in downtown Post begins in the morning with merchants and vendors hosting a sip and shop. The Silent Night Village is open for "Taste of Post," with food vendors serving local specialty foods. Santa and Mrs. Claus and a pesky Grinch welcome children. Then, a Lighted Float Parade lines up in the late afternoon on Main Street, where regional antique firetrucks and local floats brighten the streets.

cityofposttexas.com

Baytown Town Square, 213 W. Texas Ave.

Celebrating 25 years, Christmas on Texas Avenue Festival offers door prizes every 25 minutes, Santa's playground for young and old fans, shopping, food trucks, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, a car and bike show, and live music.

acedistrictbaytown.org

Central Park, 201 S. Austin St.

This family-friendly affair in downtown Seguin features a variety of nonprofit organizations hosting activities for children in Central Park. Take pictures with Santa, decorate cookies, and write letters to Santa Claus.

visitseguin.com

Gruene Historic District, 1601 Hunter Road

Gruene closes out the many festivities of the day with a brass band street performance followed by the annual town lighting when Cowboy Kringle rides into town on horseback and hands out candy canes to the kids.

holidaysingruene.com

Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum, 2503 Fourth Ave.

For its one-day-only Christmas Open House, the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum bustles with holiday activity. Along with Santa taking requests at his sleigh in the snowy woods of Hazlewood Lecture Hall, children can make holiday crafts, listen to storytellers weave Christmas stories in a cozy living room setting with a crackling fire, and hear children’s choirs and entertainers fill the rest of the museum with music from the Derrick Room. Santa's helpers also have a cookie station.

panhandleplains.org

Sea Center Texas, 302 Medical Drive

“Sandy Claws” dives with the Sea Center Texas fish to find out their Christmas wishes and to make sure the aquarium gets a good cleaning in preparation for Santa’s Christmas visit. Children can drop off their letters to Santa, and “Sandy Claws” makes sure they get delivered to the North Pole.

tpwd.state.tx.us/seacenter

Palestine Chamber of Commerce, 401 W. Main St.

This Palestine tradition, organized by the local YMCA, is a festive fun run through downtown that gets the whole family into the spirit of the season. Wear your favorite holiday costume. The 5K is a USA Track and Field-certified course that utilizes chip timing. It is also a fundraiser for Palestine YMCA youth and senior scholarships.

palestineymca.org

Downtown Main Street

This beloved Christmas tradition dates back more than 30 years. Always on the first Saturday of December, the parade is held at night along historic Main Street. Up to 100 floats, bands, and other entries are lit up in the holiday cheer as they make their way from the fire station to the parade's end at River Road. Grab a chair and some blankets and pick your space to take it all in.

ci.boerne.tx.us/564/weihnachts-parade

Main Street

Every Saturday, see free cowboy fun in downtown Bandera. Activities can include chuckwagon storyteller, hopping on a saddle-broke Longhorn, or a horse-drawn wagon tour of Bandera. Most Saturdays the Bandera Cattle Company perform gunfights at Rattlesnake Ridge located behind the Visitors Center.

banderabusiness.com

Main Street

Line up on Main Street to see Santa and Mrs. Claus and other holiday revelers. Enjoy the fun and activities in town. The Cowboy Capital Parade heads north on Main Street.

banderatex.com

Louise Hays Park, 202 Thompson Drive

Join the Kerrville Parks and Recreation Department for its annual holiday 5K. Get the family together and dress up as Santa, elves, "Whoville" residents, or other Christmas characters for an enjoyable way to celebrate the season.

kerrvilletx.gov

Texas Rangers Heritage Center, 1618 E. Main St.

Come visit with Santa at the Texas Rangers Heritage Center. Enjoy crafts, cookies, cocoa, wagon rides, and other holiday festivities.

trhc.org

Pioneer Museum, 325 W. Main St.

Children ages 10 and under are invited to bring a stocking to hang on the fireplace. While the children aren't looking, Santa and his elves work to fill the stockings according to German tradition.

pioneermuseum.org

Downtown , 310 N. Main St.

This new event is held in conjunction with the Hot Cocoa Stroll and Lighted Christmas Parade and features the official dedication of Elgin's #ETX150 time capsule at 1:50 p.m. 'Tis the season for holiday-themed children’s activities, Santa's reindeer games, Christmas carols, a special screening of "The Polar Express," and festive food trucks.

elgintexas.gov

Mesquite Arts Center, 1527 N. Galloway Ave.

The Mesquite Arts Center hosts its Winter Gala, a night of family fun with food and music.

mesquiteartscenter.org

Westlake Park, 601 Gross Road

Mesquite Parks and Recreation’s largest annual event, Christmas in the Park, kicks off the holiday season with free carnival rides, arts and crafts, visiting with Santa and Mrs. Claus, indulging on cookies and hot cocoa, and other activities.

visitmesquitetx.com

Seguin Coliseum, 950 S. Austin St.

The Seguin Art League has been presenting this event for 10 years. Enjoy a fine arts and crafts show featuring handmade items, gifts, and decorations; over 70 vendor booths; door prizes; food; and a craft activity for children.

seguinartleague.com

Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, 800 Bagby St.

Spend a jolly holiday season with this wonder-filled production of the children's classic based on the Disney film and book by P.L. Travers. This brand-new production of the hit Cameron Mackintosh musical is created for the family by Theatre Under The Stars.

tuts.com

Bass Concert Hall, 2350 Robert Dedman Drive

The record-setting Broadway holiday show features the songs “You’re A Mean One, Mr. Grinch” and “Welcome Christmas” from the original animated special. Max the Dog narrates while the mean and scheming Grinch, whose heart is “two sizes too small,” decides to steal Christmas away from the holiday- loving Whos. Sets and costumes inspired by Dr. Seuss’ original illustrations help transport audiences to the whimsical world of Whoville and remind everyone of the true meaning of the holiday season.

austin.broadway.com

St. Helena's Episcopal Church, 410 N. Main St.

Take a step back in time to the small quiet town of Bethlehem on the eve of Jesus Christ's birth. Wander through the town, pet a camel, meet the town's citizens, and don't be surprised if you see the holy family walk by.

sthelenas.net

Kreische Brewery and Monument Hill State Historic Sites, 414 State Loop 92

The trails of Kreische Brewery and Monument Hill State Historic Sites are lit with beautiful holiday lights for this 10-night festival. The first five nights feature children's crafts, entertainment, visits with Santa, refreshments, and volunteers in costume sharing Victorian-German Christmas traditions at the Kreische home and smokehouse. The final five "encore" nights allow guests to simply walk the trail to enjoy the lights, which include several new thematic displays.

friendsofkbmh.org/events

Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary, 1 Nature Place

Holidays at the Heard brings the beauty of the holiday season into nature. Bundle up your family, get out of the house, and experience this unique family-friendly holiday evening event in North Texas.

heardmuseum.org

Clute Municipal Park, 100 Parkview Drive

Come out and celebrate the holiday season with two days of Christmas activities and fun featuring a lighted Christmas trail and seasonal photo opportunities.

clutetexas.gov

Sam Houston Memorial Museum and Republic of Texas Presidential Library, 1836 Sam Houston Ave.

The annual holiday event on the museum grounds has historical demonstrations and holiday goodies.

samhoustonmemorialmuseum.com

Surfside Beach Main Entrance

Watch the sky fill up with the lit-up kites of the Surfside Flyers Kite Club. The fourth annual event is fun for all ages.

surfsidetx.org

Historic Downtown Boerne, 100 N. Main St.

On this child-friendly weekend, everyone is encouraged to show off their ugly Christmas sweaters, silly Christmas pajamas, and Whoville hairdos. Events include the Cookie Crawl, a free Santa scavenger hunt, Christmas card decorating, a visit with Santa, and the Cowboy Christmas Market.

ci.boerne.tx.us/1197/visit-boerne

Varner-Hogg Plantation State Historical Site, 1702 N. 13th. St.

Tour the plantation house to discover the many contributions of different cultures to Christmas in Texas. Relax outside and enjoy the beverage of the season (wassail), Christmas cookies and other foods, entertainment, children's activities, and a special visit from Santa. Santa's Market is also open for all the shoppers who attend.

visitvarnerhoggplantation.com

Gulf Coast Bird Observatory, 299 SH 332 West

Watch volunteers collect baseline data on bird populations at the sanctuary. The banding station is an excellent opportunity to see birds up close and to learn all the birds of the Brazosport area.

gcbo.org

Crockett County 4-H Barn, 1303 Ave. AA

Area youth bring their best livestock for the judges to review.

ozona.com/events-calendar

Kerrville Kroc Center, 201 Holdsworth Drive

Celebrate the holidays with the whole family at this free event filled with breakfast, photos with Santa, cookie decorating, hot chocolate, and arts and crafts—all themed around "A Charlie Brown Christmas."

kerrvillekroc.org

Marktplatz, 100 block of West Main Street

Ring in the new year in downtown Fredericksburg. The city hosts an early event appropriate for all ages and featuring the ball drop on the Marktplatz Square.

fbgtx.org

Elgin VFW, 188 Old Sayers Road

Join the fun at this New Year’s Eve party at the Elgin VFW, featuring all things neon, live music, food vendors, and activities for kids. No New Year’s Eve would be complete without a midnight toast and black-eyed peas.

elgintexas.gov

Morris Memorial Pool, 802 N. Avenue C

Brave the cold water and jump into the new year at the Elgin Municipal Pool at Morris Memorial Park. Take pictures in the photo booth, and bring a change of clothes and a towel.

elgintexas.gov/239/recreation-programming

Temple Railroad and Heritage Museum, 315 W. Avenue B.

The Harlem Renaissance was an explosion of African American culture, music, art, and literature. Join the museum as they celebrate this unique moment in history. Jazz and crafts are part of the day.

templeparks.com

Texas Trust CU Theatre at Grand Prairie, 1001 Texas Trust Way

Follow the adventures of Bluey, a loveable puppy who lives with her mom, dad, and little sister.

texastrustcutheatre.com

Ray Roberts Lake State Park, Johnson Branch Unit, 100 PW 4153

Help celebrate 100 years of fishing in Texas State Parks. Bring your child to the Kid Fish pond and create memorable moments while fishing for freshly stocked rainbow trout. Rangers are there to help kids fish and are giving away prizes.

tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/ray-roberts-lake

Mansfiled Park Rodeo Arena, 2886 SH 16 N.

For more than 80 years, the Bandera County Junior Livestock Show has provided 4-H and FFA youth opportunities to further their agricultural, leadership, and higher education goals. An auction is held on the Jan. 14.

bcjlsa.com

Granbury City Beach, 505 E. Pearl St.

Kick off the new year by jumping into the frigid waters of Lake Granbury. Prizes are awarded for Best Costume, Oldest Participant, Furthest Travelled, Best Team Costumes, and Best Couples Costume.

visitgranbury.com/goosebumpjump

Meridian State Park, 173 Park Road 7

The rainbow trout is stocked in January, and a fly-fishing group from Dallas-Fort Worth comes to teach people how to fly fish. The event includes a tackle loaner program, fishing contest, and, moving into the evening, live music and a dance on the Civilian Conservation Corps veranda, wrapping up with a star party.

tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/meridian

Frontier Times Museum, 510 13th St.

On most fourth Sundays of the month, the Frontier Times Museum presents an afternoon jamboree featuring live music, storytelling, and fun for all ages.

frontiertimesmuseum.org

Rosewood Center, 5938 Skillman St.

Dallas Children's Theater presents this musical based on the book by Mo Willems. The Pigeon is having a bit of an identity crisis—he never gets to do anything, and people just want him to “fly off." Everything changes when the confident, cool Bus Driver rolls into town, and the Pigeon finds himself with a brand new goal: drive the bus. But, is it even possible? Time to find out.

dct.org

Lake Corpus Christi , 23194 Park Road 25

Kid Fish is an annual event hosted by Lake Corpus Christi State Park. The purpose of this single-day event is to expose local youth to the sport and enjoyment of fishing and provide them with the tools and knowledge for a future of responsible recreation and environmental stewardship.

tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/lake-corpus-christi

Lake Bob Sandlin State Park, 341 State Park Road 2117

Multiple generations of families have attended this event over the years. At the 33rd annual Kids Fish Day, thousands of rainbow trout are stocked, and the park provides all the gear needed. There are casting games for beginners, fish prep and cooking demonstrations, and giveaways. Rangers are on hand to guide fishers. There are two different sessions, one in the morning and one in the afternoon.

tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/lake-bob-sandlin

Rosewood Center, 5938 Skillman St.

Dallas Children's Theater presents the final production of Cry Havoc Theater Company, a teen theater company that has been celebrated for putting young artists in the lead as creators and actors of bold art that disrupts expectations and shakes up old, entrenched conversations. "Endlings" is a thought-provoking play that tackles climate change, social justice, grief, the pandemic, and art with frank, youthful honesty. Post-show conversations with subject matter resources follow every performance.

dct.org

Mansfiled Park Rodeo Arena, 2886 SH 16 N.

Watch as talented bullriders attempt to beat the clock and stay atop excited bulls, putting on a great show the whole family can enjoy.

ridingonfaithrodeo.com

Great Lawn of the Event Center, 700 Crockett St.

Enjoy four days of family-friendly fun in downtown Beaumont, with parades, concerts, kids' activities, arts and crafts, and food vendors.

mardigrastx.com

Stahlman Park, 2211 Bluewater Highway

The Surfside Beach Marathon includes a marathon, half marathon, 5K, and kids' 1K. At the post-run party, runners can enjoy Texas barbecue, drinks, and games. Races start as the sun rises over the water and follow the public beach to San Luis Pass, then return. The entire course is on the firm, smooth sand.

surfsidebeachmarathon.com

Huntsville State Park, 565 Park Road 40 W.

Take an interactive tour through the life of the Civilian Conservation Corps. Read about the corps' formation, get hands-on with their tools and uniforms, visit the camp store to shop the benefits of being an enrollee, and hear from members of the corps themselves, though their newsletter, as you stand in Ravens Lodge and look out at Lake Raven that they helped create.

tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/huntsville

Mitchell Park, 300 W. Louisiana St.

At this parade held each year on the Sunday before Mardi Gras, dogs and their owners dress up in costumes based on the special theme of the event, then they parade around McKinney's downtown square. Prizes are awarded in multiple categories. Music, food trucks, and pet-related vendors add to the festivities.

artinstituteofmckinney.com

Rosewood Center, 5938 Skillman St.

Get caught in Charlotte's web to save Wilbur, the "radiant" and "humble" pig, and make friends once again with all his lovable barnyard neighbors. One of the first books ever written for children exploring issues of mortality, "Charlotte's Web" is an emotional tribute to friendship with universal themes depicting courage, compassion, and the ever-changing cycle of life.

dct.org

Ozona Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center, 505 15th St.

Learn more about the early days on the frontier in and around Ozona during Crockett County History Day on the Ozona Chamber of Commerce grounds. The informative event featurs camels, soldiers, pioneers, flintknapper, and livestock including donkeys from the Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue.

ozona.com/events-calendar