Lights On! in Historic Downtown Bryan
Visitors gather to countdown to the lighting of the Christmas tree at Gloria Sale Park and watch live holiday music and performances. The celebration features free train rides, face painting, balloon twisting, and complimentary cookies, candy canes, and hot chocolate. Guests can also take polaroid and digital photos with Santa in front of The Carnegie and explore local downtown shops and restaurants.
What to Expect
Countdown to light the Christmas tree and illuminate Historic Downtown Bryan.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Historic Downtown Bryan
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Destination Bryan
Food & Drink
Complimentary hot chocolate, cookies, and candy canes are offered at the event.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with young children
Vibe
Festive and family-friendly
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
Free
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Free event; the page also identifies the listed holiday activities as free.
- Hours: 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM; opening ceremony countdown at 6:15 PM.
- Parking: Free street parking is available in marked spaces outside the street closure areas. Paid parking is available in the Roy Kelly Parking Garage at 200 East 27th Street.
Tips & Advice
- Head to Gloria Sale Park at the south end of downtown before the opening ceremony so you're in place for the tree-lighting countdown.
- Park free in marked street spaces outside the closed blocks of Main Street and West 28th Street, or use the paid Roy Kelly Parking Garage on East 27th.
- Bring a letter with your return address for Santa's Mailbox at The Carnegie History Center, and mail it before December 11 to get a reply.
- After the lighting, shop the downtown boutiques and finish the evening at one of the locally owned restaurants in Historic Downtown Bryan.
- Come back the next evening for the Jingle Bell Sip & Shop, which brings another round of holiday shopping to Historic Downtown Bryan.
Special Events & Promotions
- Santa's Mailbox at The Carnegie History Center answers letters sent with a return address before December 11.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is there for kids to do?
There are free holiday train rides, plus free face painting and balloon twisting with Charity & Friends. Kids can also get free photos with Santa.
Is there free food or drink?
Yes. Hot chocolate, cookies and candy canes are free.
Where are photos with Santa?
Santa is in front of The Carnegie, with free polaroid and digital photos.
Can kids send a letter to Santa?
Yes. Santa's Mailbox is at The Carnegie History Center. Send a letter with your address before December 11 and Santa will reply.
Where should I park?
Free street parking is in marked spaces outside the closed streets. Paid parking is in the Roy Kelly Parking Garage at 200 East 27th Street.
More Christmas Events Near Bryan
More Christmas Events near Bryan
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.