Holiday Lighted Parade and Courthouse Lighting Ceremony
Spectators can view the lighted holiday parade as it travels down Water Street and Earl Garrett Street to the Kerr County Courthouse. After the procession, crowds gather for the lighting of the courthouse and a 50-foot Christmas tree sparkling with nearly 37,000 warm white LED lights. The celebration also includes live musical performances, a visit from Santa Claus, food trucks, vendor shopping, children's crafts, and character meet-and-greets.
What to Expect
Features a lighted parade and a 50-foot illuminated Christmas tree.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
City of Kerrville Parks and Recreation Department
Food & Drink
Food trucks are available during Merry on the Square.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with children
Vibe
Bright and festive
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Hours: Merry on the Square begins at 4 p.m.; the parade begins at 6 p.m.; the courthouse and community Christmas tree lighting follows the parade.
Tips & Advice
- Come for Merry on the Square before the parade so the kids can do Christmas crafts, meet holiday characters, and eat at the food trucks.
- Grab a spot along Water Street or Earl Garrett Street, since the parade runs from the G Street Bridge to the courthouse.
- Stay after the parade for the courthouse lighting and the 50-foot tree, which shines with nearly 37,000 warm white LED lights.
- Take a walk downtown afterward to see the 140 illuminated street ornaments lining the holiday corridor.
- Dress warmly, because the parade and tree lighting take place outdoors after dark.
Special Events & Promotions
- Expanded day of festivities this year, with more entertainment and festive surprises at Merry on the Square
- This year's parade winners are announced during the evening
- Santa Claus visits after the parade
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Merry on the Square?
It's the lead-up to the parade around the Kerr County Courthouse. There's live and themed entertainment, local vendors, food trucks, children's Christmas crafts, meet-and-greets with holiday characters, and festive surprises.
What route does the parade take?
It steps off from the G Street Bridge and Water Street, heads west on Water Street, turns right onto Earl Garrett Street, and ends at the Kerr County Courthouse.
What happens after the parade?
Everyone gathers around the courthouse square for the lighting of the courthouse and the 50-foot community Christmas tree. There are also musical performances, a visit from Santa Claus, and the announcement of this year's parade winners.
Is there food?
Yes. Food trucks are part of Merry on the Square.
How can businesses take part?
Vendors can download the 2026 Merry on the Square vendor application. Businesses that want to sponsor the event can get the sponsorship opportunities packet from the Kerrville Christmas Lighting Corporation.
More Christmas Events Near Kerrville
More Christmas Events near Kerrville
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.