9 Holiday Themed Weekend Events Happening In East Texas (12.16.23)

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Holiday magic is all around East Texas right now. Shoppers are focused on finding that perfect gift for that special someone on their list. Christmas goodies and baked goods are being prepared in kitchens all across the Piney Woods. Then there are lots of Christmas parties that will soon be in full swing where families and friends will be playing catch up on the events from the year.

There is still a lot happening this time of the year that continues to offer up some fantastic events for East Texans to be a part of. Whether it's last-minute shopping at a pop-up shop, taking the family on a train ride, or being part of a fun run, there is so much left to do and memories to be made.

There are plenty of activities going on this weekend for you and the family to enjoy.

Here's a look at this weekend's events in East Texas.

For more information on any of these events, click or tap on the event name to be redirected to their official event page or website and for any admission or ticketing fee.

Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride Through Tyler's Azalea District

Wednesday - Sunday
Azalea District - Tyler

Take a tour of the historic Azalea District via horse-drawn carriage and see historic homes decorated and lit up with all sorts of Christmas decorations. For booking, fees and other information call Mark at 903.681.2647.

Saint Nick's Fun Fest

Saturday @ 9a
Lindsey Park - Tyler

This is a charity run that will benefit one of three charities and participants choose which to support. The run will be a 7k, 13k or 20k along a Lindsey Park Red Loop trail. Registration fee applies.

Magic On Main

Friday and Saturday
downtown Nacogdoches

Shop downtown Nacogdoches during this event and with the punch card that you receive at participating businesses, you could qualify to win a prize that is being offered from the retailers. Have brunch with Santa on Saturday from 10a - 2p.

TJC Apache Belles Christmas Extravaganza

Saturday @ 2p and 7p
Wise Auditorium - TJC

The 2nd annual Christmas Extravaganza with the Tyler Junior College Apache Belles. Once again the drill team is hauling out the holly, tinsel, and showstopping holiday tunes. There will be lights, holiday music, colorful costumes, and a high-kick routine. This is a ticketed event.

LASER Holidays 2 - Rock The Dome

Saturday @ 7p
Hudnall Planetarium - TJC

The program features a laser show set to a mix of holiday classics to modern tracks. This is a ticketed event.

Historic Bower's Mansion Ghost Hunt

Saturday
Palestine

Over 140 years old, and harboring stories of murder, suicide, and death, the Historic Bowers Mansion in Palestine is quickly growing a reputation for one of the most haunted locations in the country! This is a ticketed event.

Texas State Railroad: Polar Express

Wednesday - Sunday
Palestine Depot - Texas State Railroad

Live the magic of the Polar Express for yourself with your kids. Be a part of the retelling of the story while enjoying hot cocoa and cookies and sing-a-longs as you take a trip to the North Pole and back. This is a ticketed event with extremely limited availability, book soon.

Drive-thru Christmas Light Parks

open nightly
locations throughout East Texas

Pack up the kids and the family, bring along some gingerbread cookies and maybe some hot chocolate or coffee, and head to one of the many drive-thru, and now walk-thru, Christmas light parks here in East Texas.

Walk Of Lights

Friday - Sunday 6p - 9p
2161 FM 315 - Palestine

Take a stroll through a self-guided magical light-up wonderland in Palestine. You'll have an opportunity to have your pictures taken with Santa (for a fee) and there will also be concessions available for purchase. There is a parking fee, but the trail is free.