Feel the holiday spirit in Tyler! Discover all the exciting festive happenings with our guide. Whether you're intimately familiar with Tyler or just getting acquainted, this guide ensures unforgettable holidays.
Every year, Santa Land transforms into a dazzling spectacle that enchants visitors of all ages. Experience the charm of the Azalea District Trail of Lights, where historic homes glow amidst twinkling displays. And the Tyler Christmas Parade is something you definitely don't want to miss, as it brings holiday cheer to the heart of downtown. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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The Top Christmas Events in Tyler
- The Tyler Christmas Parade
- Azalea District Trail of Lights
- Mistletoe & Magic
- Christmas in Bergfeld Park
- Holly Jolly 5K
- Festival of Trees
- Holiday in the Park
- Nutcracker Ballet
Tyler Holiday Light Displays
Azalea District Trail of Lights
What to Expect:
Self-guided tour through historic neighborhood
Description:
The Azalea District Trail of Lights invites visitors to explore Tyler's most picturesque neighborhood adorned with holiday splendor. This self-guided tour winds through streets lined with historic homes, each competing to outshine the next with elaborate light displays. The scent of pine and cinnamon wafts through the air as you stroll past century-old mansions and charming bungalows. Grab a hot cocoa from a local vendor and vote for your favorite decorated home. The Azalea District, known for its spring blooms, transforms into a winter attraction, showcasing the area's architectural heritage in a new light.
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Azalea District Trail of Lights
Tyler Holiday Markets and Shopping
Mistletoe & Magic
What to Expect:
Upscale holiday market supporting local charities
Description:
Mistletoe & Magic elevates holiday shopping to an art form, featuring curated boutiques and artisanal goods in an elegant setting. This upscale market brings together local and regional vendors, offering unique gifts not found in typical stores. Visitors can indulge in gourmet tastings while browsing handcrafted jewelry, bespoke clothing, and luxury home decor. The event's proceeds benefit local children's charities, continuing a tradition of community support since its inception in 1977. Live music fills the air as shoppers discover one-of-a-kind treasures, making Mistletoe & Magic a sophisticated alternative to conventional holiday markets.
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Tyler Holiday Shows and Entertainment
The Tyler Christmas Parade
What to Expect:
Largest holiday parade in East Texas
Description:
The Tyler Christmas Parade illuminates downtown Tyler with a dazzling procession of floats and performers. As the largest holiday parade in East Texas, it showcases the community's creativity and spirit. Spectators line the streets to witness marching bands, elaborate floats, and costumed characters. You can join the crowd in singing along to classic carols performed by local choirs. The parade's roots trace back to the 1930s, reflecting Tyler's long-standing tradition of holiday celebration. Local businesses and organizations compete for the coveted "Best Float" title, elevating the parade's visual spectacle each year.
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Festival of Trees
What to Expect:
Showcase of professionally decorated Christmas trees
Description:
The Festival of Trees transforms a local venue into a forest of artfully adorned Christmas trees. Each tree, meticulously decorated by professional designers and local organizations, tells a unique story through its theme and ornaments. Visitors can marvel at the intricate details and creative concepts, from whimsical childhood favorites to elegant winter wonderlands. Silent auctions allow you to bid on your favorite trees, with proceeds benefiting local charities. The festival originated as a small fundraiser and has grown into a significant holiday attraction, reflecting Tyler's commitment to community and creativity.
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Nutcracker Ballet
What to Expect:
Professional ballet performance with local youth dancers
Description:
The Nutcracker Ballet in Tyler combines the talents of professional dancers with aspiring local youth performers, creating a production that resonates deeply with the community. This rendition of Tchaikovsky's classic features elaborate costumes and sets that transport the audience to a world of sugar plum fairies and toy soldiers. The performance showcases the Tyler Junior College Academy of Dance, providing young dancers with invaluable stage experience alongside seasoned professionals. Witness the graceful athleticism of the dancers as they bring the beloved story to life. This annual production has become a cornerstone of Tyler's cultural calendar, inspiring generations of local artists and dance enthusiasts.
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Tyler Other Holiday Activities
Christmas in Bergfeld Park
What to Expect:
Community-focused celebration in historic park
Description:
Christmas in Bergfeld Park brings Tyler's community together for a day of holiday cheer in one of the city's oldest public spaces. The park's century-old trees serve as a backdrop for family-friendly activities, including ornament-making workshops and storytelling sessions. Children can meet Santa Claus and share their wishes while parents browse local craft vendors. The event honors Bergfeld Park's rich history, which dates back to 1913, by incorporating vintage-inspired decorations and activities. Participate in the annual tree-lighting ceremony, a cherished tradition that symbolizes the start of the holiday season in Tyler.
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Holly Jolly 5K
What to Expect:
Festive-themed run supporting local food bank
Description:
The Holly Jolly 5K invigorates Tyler's holiday season with a spirited run through the city's scenic routes. Participants don their most creative holiday attire, from reindeer antlers to full Santa suits, creating a colorful spectacle as they dash through the streets. The race supports the East Texas Food Bank, turning each stride into a gesture of goodwill. Along the course, cheerful volunteers offer encouragement and holiday-themed refreshments. After crossing the finish line, runners can warm up with complimentary hot chocolate and participate in a costume contest. This event combines fitness, philanthropy, and festive fun in a uniquely Tyler way.
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Holiday in the Park
What to Expect:
Multi-day celebration in Tyler's largest park
Description:
Holiday in the Park infuses Tyler State Park with seasonal joy, offering a diverse array of activities amidst the natural beauty of East Texas. The park's 985 acres become a playground for holiday-themed adventures, from guided night hikes to festive kayak tours on the lake. Visitors can craft pinecone ornaments using materials found in the park, connecting holiday traditions with nature. The event highlights the park's Depression-era Civilian Conservation Corps structures, decorated to reflect their 1930s origins. Roast marshmallows over campfires while park rangers share stories of winter wildlife, creating a unique blend of education and celebration.
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Nearby Events
Santa Land (Lindale)
What to Expect:
Drive-through Christmas light experience
Description:
Santa Land transforms a sprawling 24-acre property in Lindale into a twinkling winter spectacle. This drive-through experience allows visitors to enjoy the lights from the comfort of their vehicles. The winding path reveals over 2.5 million lights arranged in intricate displays, including animated scenes and towering structures. Tune your car radio to a special station for synchronized holiday music as you cruise through the illuminated wonderland. Santa Land began as a small family display in 1995 and has since grown into a beloved regional attraction. The event supports local charities, embodying the spirit of giving.