Excited for the holidays in San Marcos? Our guide has all the festive events you need to know!
The Sights & Sounds of Christmas is an annual celebration that transforms downtown into a winter wonderland teeming with activities and entertainment for all ages. Follow the twinkling lights and festive displays on the Holiday Trail of Lights, a magical journey through beautifully decorated neighborhoods. And Santa’s Ranch is something you definitely don't want to miss, offering an enchanting drive-through experience filled with spectacular light displays. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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The Top Christmas Events in San Marcos
See these and even more events listed below!San Marcos Other Holiday Activities
Sights & Sounds of Christmas
What to Expect:
Nightly snow shows in Texas
Description:
San Marcos transforms into a winter paradise during Sights & Sounds of Christmas. This Texas Hill Country celebration boasts nightly snow shows, a rarity in the Lone Star State. Visitors can ice skate on a real outdoor rink, surrounded by twinkling lights. The event pays homage to San Marcos' rich history, featuring displays that showcase the area's indigenous roots. Stroll through the festive grounds and savor the aroma of freshly roasted chestnuts wafting through the air.
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Nearby Events
Holiday Trail of Lights (Wimberley)
What to Expect:
Drive-through light display in Texas Hill Country
Description:
The Holiday Trail of Lights illuminates the Texas Hill Country with a dazzling drive-through experience. Spanning eight miles, this twinkling spectacle winds through Wimberley's picturesque landscape. Visitors cruise past elaborate light sculptures and animated displays from the comfort of their vehicles. The trail incorporates themes from local folklore, including the legendary Jacobs Well. As you journey through the glowing wonderland, tune your radio to a special station for synchronized holiday music.
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Santa’s Ranch (New Braunfels)
What to Expect:
Over 1.5 million lights in custom displays
Description:
Santa's Ranch in New Braunfels dazzles with over 1.5 million lights arranged in custom-designed displays. This drive-through extravaganza spans more than a mile, featuring intricate scenes that celebrate both Texas heritage and holiday traditions. Visitors can spot animated elves, leaping reindeer, and even a glowing Alamo. The ranch's history dates back to 2003 when a local family began the tradition. Tune in to the dedicated radio station for a soundtrack that perfectly complements the twinkling tableau.
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Dickens on the Strand (Galveston)
What to Expect:
Victorian-era Christmas celebration
Description:
Galveston's Strand District leaps back in time during Dickens on the Strand. This Victorian-era celebration transports visitors to 19th-century London, complete with costumed characters and period-accurate entertainment. Stroll cobblestone streets lined with vendors selling traditional crafts and foods. The event honors Galveston's historical ties to Charles Dickens, whose grandfather once lived on the island. You can participate in a Victorian costume contest, showcasing your best 1800s attire.
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Gruene Christmas Market Days (New Braunfels)
What to Expect:
German-inspired Christmas market in historic district
Description:
Gruene Christmas Market Days brings old-world charm to New Braunfels' historic district. This German-inspired event transforms the area into a bustling Weihnachtsmarkt, filled with artisans and craftspeople. Visitors can browse unique gifts while savoring the scent of roasted almonds and cinnamon. The market takes place in Gruene's 1800s-era buildings, including the famous Gruene Hall, Texas' oldest continually operating dance hall. Shop for hand-crafted ornaments, locally-made jewelry, and traditional German holiday treats.
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Christmas Wine Affair (Driftwood)
What to Expect:
Wine tasting tour of Texas Hill Country wineries
Description:
The Christmas Wine Affair offers a spirited tour of Texas Hill Country's finest wineries. This event combines holiday cheer with viticulture, allowing visitors to sample a variety of local wines at participating vineyards. Each winery decks its halls with unique decorations, creating a festive atmosphere for tasting. The affair highlights the region's growing reputation as a wine destination, rivaling more established areas. Visitors can collect commemorative ornaments from each stop on their tasting journey.
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Luminations (Austin)
What to Expect:
Candlelit trails through native Texas gardens
Description:
Luminations at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center in Austin offers a serene holiday experience. Thousands of luminarias light winding paths through native Texas gardens, creating a peaceful ambiance. This event celebrates the beauty of the state's natural landscape during winter. Visitors can warm up with hot cocoa while listening to local musicians perform. The center, founded by the former First Lady, continues her legacy of preserving native plants and educating the public about conservation.
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Lockhart's Lighted Christmas Parade (Lockhart)
What to Expect:
Nighttime parade featuring illuminated floats
Description:
Lockhart's Lighted Christmas Parade illuminates the town square with a procession of glowing floats and marching bands. This nighttime spectacle transforms the historic downtown into a river of light. Spectators line the streets to watch as creatively decorated vehicles and walking groups pass by, each aglow with countless bulbs. The parade reflects Lockhart's small-town charm and community spirit. You can enjoy the town's famous barbecue from local eateries while waiting for the parade to begin.
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Lockhart's Lighted Christmas Parade
Fredericksburg Christmas Nights of Lights (Fredericksburg)
What to Expect:
German-inspired holiday celebration in Texas wine country
Description:
Fredericksburg Christmas Nights of Lights blends German heritage with Texas hospitality. This event illuminates the town's Marktplatz, featuring a 26-foot German Christmas Pyramid and a 30-foot Christmas tree. Visitors can sip Glühwein while admiring the lights and decorations. The celebration pays homage to the town's founding by German immigrants in 1846. Explore the adorned Main Street, lined with historic buildings housing unique shops and tasting rooms featuring local wines.
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Fredericksburg Christmas Nights of Lights
Johnson City's Lights Spectacular (Johnson City)
What to Expect:
Over a million lights covering the town courthouse
Description:
Johnson City's Lights Spectacular blankets the Blanco County Courthouse in over a million twinkling lights. This small-town celebration transforms the entire courthouse square into a brilliant display. Visitors can take horse-drawn carriage rides through the illuminated streets, experiencing the charm of a bygone era. The event honors Johnson City's most famous son, President Lyndon B. Johnson, with special exhibits at the nearby LBJ National Historical Park. Listen for the courthouse bells chiming holiday tunes throughout the evening.
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Johnson City's Lights Spectacular
Christmas on Mercer Street (Dripping Springs)
What to Expect:
Small-town holiday celebration with local artisans
Description:
Christmas on Mercer Street captures the essence of small-town Texas holiday spirit in Dripping Springs. This charming event showcases local artisans and craftspeople, offering unique, handmade gifts. Visitors can watch live demonstrations of traditional crafts and sample locally-produced treats. The celebration highlights Dripping Springs' history as the "Gateway to the Hill Country" and its modern reputation as the "Wedding Capital of Texas." Stroll down the festively decorated Mercer Street and enjoy live music from local performers.