13 Festive Things To Do In Palestine Tx For Christmas

The holiday season is upon us, and there's no better place to experience the magic of Christmas than in Palestine, TX. This charming East Texas town embraces the holiday spirit and offers visitors a plethora of festive activities to enjoy. From dazzling light displays to holiday markets and parades, there's something for everyone. Get ready to feel the warmth of the season with our list of 13 Festive Things to Do in Palestine, TX for Christmas. So, gather your loved ones and let's explore all the delightful ways to celebrate this magical time of year in Palestine.

Lighted Christmas Parade

Palestine, TX, is known for its rich history and quaint charm. During the holiday season, this small town transforms into a winter wonderland, attracting visitors from all over the state.

One of the main attractions during the Christmas season is the Lighted Christmas Parade. This annual event is no ordinary parade but a magical display of lights, music, and festive cheer. The parade features beautifully decorated floats, marching bands, and an appearance from Santa Claus, making it a fun-filled family-friendly event.

The parade starts at the Anderson County fairgrounds, and crowds gather at Main Street to watch the procession of lit-up floats make their way down the street. The parade's duration lasts about an hour and a half, and it moves at a slow pace, allowing plenty of time to admire the decorations and take photos.

What makes this parade unique is the competition between the participating floats. Each float is judged on its creativity, craftsmanship, and adherence to the parade's theme. This friendly competition brings out the best in participating organizations, who go all out to display their talents and add to the festive mood.

Besides, the Christmas parade is not the only attraction in Palestine. The town is filled with holiday festivities, including live music, carriage rides, holiday markets, and much more. The Palestine's old-timey downtown is decorated with sparkling lights, and the shops are stocked with unique gifts perfect for last-minute shopping.

In conclusion, the Lighted Christmas Parade in Palestine, TX, is an annual tradition that residents and visitors alike look forward to each year. It is a magical experience that immerses one in the holiday spirit with its colorful floats, music, and overall good cheer. Whether you're a local or a tourist, this parade is a must-see if you're visiting Palestine during the holiday season.

Polar Express Train Ride

Palestine, TX is known for its beautiful holiday traditions, and one of the most popular events is the Polar Express Train Ride. This magical train ride takes passengers on a journey that recreates the classic children's book, "The Polar Express," by Chris Van Allsburg.

The adventure begins at the Palestine Depot, where passengers are greeted with hot cocoa and cookies before boarding the train. As the train chugs along through the East Texas countryside, passengers are entertained with live music, caroling, and holiday stories. Kids of all ages will beam with excitement as they listen to the story of the Polar Express and watch as it comes to life around them.

One of the highlights of the journey is the arrival at the North Pole, where passengers are delighted with the sight of Santa Claus himself, who comes aboard the train to greet each child and give them a special gift. This experience is the perfect way to celebrate the magic of Christmas and create lasting memories with your family and friends.

The Polar Express Train Ride is a beloved tradition in Palestine, TX, and tickets for this popular event sell out quickly. If you're planning on visiting the area for Christmas, be sure to book your tickets well in advance. The ride is typically offered on select nights throughout the holiday season, and there are often additional festive events and activities to enjoy in the city during this time.

Overall, the Polar Express Train Ride in Palestine, TX is a must-see experience for anyone who loves the magic of Christmas. Kids and adults alike will be enchanted by this whimsical journey through a winter wonderland. Don't miss out on this unique and memorable event – book your tickets today!

Historic Home Tours

If you're looking for a unique and charming way to spend your Christmas season in Palestine, TX, look no further than the historic home tours. Here's everything you need to know about this holiday must-see.

Palestine's historic district is known for its stunning Victorian-era homes and architecture. During the Christmas season, the district comes alive with festive decorations and special events, including several home tours that offer visitors an up-close and personal look at some of the area's most stunning properties.

Throughout the month of December, visitors can take part in various home tours, each offering its own unique charm and history. Some of the most popular tours include the "Christmas at the Mansion" tour, which showcases the beautifully decorated Victorian-style Sacred Heart Cultural Center, and the "Christmas in Palestine" tour, which provides an insider's view of some of the district's most stunning private homes and bed and breakfasts.

Aside from the gorgeous homes themselves, many tour attendees also appreciate the opportunity to learn about the history and stories behind the buildings. Many of the homes in Palestine's historic district have been impeccably restored, and each has its own unique tale to tell about the city's rich past.

If you're planning a trip to Palestine, TX during the Christmas season, be sure to add a historic home tour to your itinerary. Not only will you get to experience the charm of this picturesque town, but you'll also get a glimpse into its fascinating history and the legacy of the families who helped build it.

Christmas Eve Candlelight Service

Palestine, TX, is a charming city in East Texas that is steeped in history and culture. It's no surprise that there's a lot going on during the holiday season in Palestine, TX.

One of the most highly anticipated events is the Christmas Eve candlelight service hosted by several local churches. It's a time-honored tradition in Palestine to attend this peaceful and reflective service with family and friends.

The service typically takes place in the evening, and attendees can expect to sing Christmas carols and listen to a sermon or message about the true meaning of Christmas. But what makes this service truly special is the lighting of the candles.

As the service comes to a close, candles are lit and passed around the room. The soft flickering light of the candles creates a warm and tender atmosphere that is perfect for reflecting on the joys of the holiday season.

Many people attend these candlelight services not only for the religious significance, but also for the sense of community and togetherness. It's a shared experience that brings people from all walks of life together to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas.

If you're in Palestine for the holidays, be sure to mark your calendar for the Christmas Eve candlelight service. It's an event you won't want to miss, and it's sure to leave you feeling uplifted and inspired.

Bethlehem Revisited

Are you looking for a little Christmas magic this holiday season? Look no further than Palestine, TX for a unique and festive experience that will transport you to the Holy Land itself.

Dubbed "Bethlehem Revisited," Palestine's annual Christmas event takes visitors back in time to the birthplace of Jesus. The historic downtown area is transformed into a bustling bazaar replete with costumed vendors and live animals to create an authentic atmosphere.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities and performances, such as a live nativity, camel rides, and live music. There are also plenty of opportunities for holiday shopping and indulging in local food and drink.

One highlight of Bethlehem Revisited is the "Follow the Star" journey, which takes visitors on a guided tour through the streets of "Bethlehem" and lets them witness the moments leading up to the nativity scene.

Whether you're looking to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas or just want to experience some Old World charm, Palestine's Bethlehem Revisited is a must-see event. Come and immerse yourself in the timeless story of the Nativity and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Holiday Market Days

For those looking to experience the holiday season in Palestine, Texas, there is no better way to do so than by checking out the Annual Holiday Market Days. This festive event takes place every year in historic downtown Palestine and offers visitors a chance to indulge in some of the best local shopping, dining, and entertainment that the area has to offer.

At the Holiday Market Days event, visitors can browse through a variety of vendors offering unique gifts, decorations, crafts, and more. From handmade ornaments and scented candles, to jewelry and gourmet foods, there is truly something for everyone here. Local artisans and craftsmen will be showcasing their talents and sharing their holiday spirit with visitors.

But it's not just the shopping that makes the Holiday Market Days special. Throughout the event, visitors can enjoy live music and entertainment from local performers, as well as sample some of the best food and beverage options in Palestine. Whether you're in the mood for hot cocoa and warm apple cider, or savory BBQ and delicious baked goods, you'll find it all here.

For families, the Holiday Market Days offer a wonderful opportunity to create holiday memories together. Kids will love the chance to meet Santa Claus, take a carriage ride, or participate in one of the many fun and festive activities on offer.

Overall, the Palestine Holiday Market Days event is a wonderful way to experience the magic of the holiday season while supporting the local community. Whether you're looking for unique gifts, delicious food and drink, or great entertainment, there's something for everyone at this lively and festive event.

So if you're looking to add some holiday cheer to your time spent in Palestine, be sure to check out the Annual Holiday Market Days – you won't want to miss it!

Gingerbread House Decorating

In Palestine, Texas, one of the most joyous and festive events during the Christmas season is the Gingerbread House Decorating activity at the Historic Redlands Hotel. The Historic Redlands Hotel is an elegantly restored, century-old hotel that overlooks the quaint downtown and invites visitors to enjoy exquisite dining, entertainment, and events.

The Gingerbread House Decorating event is a fun-filled activity that is perfect for children, families, and people of all ages to indulge in the Christmas spirit. The event typically takes place in early December and is offered by the hotel as a way to celebrate and promote community spirit during the holiday season.

In this event, children and adults alike are encouraged to use their imagination and creativity to build the most spectacular gingerbread house. The hotel provides all the necessary tools and ingredients to build dreamy gingerbread houses such as gingerbread mix, icing, colorful candies, chocolates and other confectionary items.

For many, the gingerbread house building process is a family tradition that brings generations together during the holiday season. With laughter and excitement in the air, participants use candy, icing, and gumdrops to create dazzling gingerbread houses of all shapes and sizes.

As participants decorate their gingerbread houses, they can enjoy Christmas carols playing in the background, and warm cups of hot chocolate and sweet treats are also available.

Once the gingerbread houses are completed, the artists can take them home or share them with newfound friends at the hotel. The historic hotel also gives out awards for different categories, such as Most Creative, Most Festive, and Most Christmassy-looking.

In summary, the Gingerbread House Decorating event in Palestine, TX, is a delightful and memorable experience for people of all ages that embraces the joy of the Christmas season. If you're planning on visiting Palestine, make sure to add this event to your itinerary and join in the merriment of building your own gingerbread house.

Christmas Craft Fair

Palestine, a charming town nestled in the heart of East Texas, is a must-visit destination during the holiday season. With its enchanting Victorian-era architecture, the town transforms into a winter wonderland adorned with sparkling lights and festive decorations. The annual Christmas Craft Fair is one event that epitomizes the cheerful spirit of Palestine during Christmas.

The Christmas Craft Fair in Palestine, TX is a huge draw for visitors and locals alike. The arts and crafts market features a variety of beautiful and unique handmade items, perfect for gift-giving or adding a festive touch to your holiday decor. From handcrafted jewelry, pottery, woodwork, candles, and so much more, the fair has something for everyone.

One of the highlights of the Christmas Craft Fair is the display of gingerbread houses created by local bakers and pastry chefs. The gingerbread houses are meticulously crafted, and visitors are left in awe of their intricate details and beautiful designs. The festive display is truly a feast for the eyes and a must-see at the fair.

In addition to the beautiful arts and crafts, the Christmas Craft Fair also offers yummy treats to indulge in. Visitors can sample delicious homemade treats like fudge, cookies, and other baked goods, all made by local vendors. Food trucks also line the streets, offering various options for hungry visitors.

The Christmas Craft Fair is held in the historic downtown district of Palestine, TX, adding to the festive ambiance of the event. Visitors can stroll along the charming brick streets, taking in the beautiful Victorian-era architecture and charming storefronts, all wrapped up in sparkling lights and holiday decorations. It's no wonder the town has been dubbed the "City of Festivals."

In conclusion, the Christmas Craft Fair in Palestine, TX, is one of the must-visit events during the holiday season. With its unique handmade crafts, delicious treats, and charming ambiance, the fair embodies the spirit of the holiday season. Make sure to mark your calendars and bring your family for a festive day out in Palestine this Christmas.

Ice Skating

Palestine, TX for Christmas is a magical experience for visitors of all ages. The small and charming East Texas town is transformed into a winter wonderland, with festive decorations, twinkling lights, and plenty of holiday events to enjoy. One of the most popular activities during the holiday season is ice skating.

The Palestine Civic Center is the hub of winter activities in the town, and this is where you'll find the ice rink. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, ice skating is an enjoyable activity that brings a little bit of festive cheer to your day. Lace-up your skates and glide around the rink, taking in the festive decorations, while Christmas music plays in the background.

If you're new to ice skating, there's no need to worry. The rink is suitable for all abilities, and there are always staff members on-hand to assist with any questions, or help if you take a tumble. There's nothing quite like whizzing around the ice, feeling the Christmas spirit, and enjoying the frosty air.

In addition to ice skating, there is a variety of other festive activities to enjoy in Palestine, TX during the holiday season. From light displays to holiday markets, there's something for everyone. Visitors can enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride, take part in carol singing, or attend a live nativity scene. There are also plenty of yummy foodie treats available, from hot chocolate to roasted chestnuts.

Palestine, TX, might not be the first place that comes to mind for ice skating, but it's definitely worth adding to your list. Whether you're local, or traveling from afar, ice skating is a great way to get into the swing of the holiday season. It's a magical experience that's sure to delight people of all ages.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a fun and festive way to celebrate Christmas, head to Palestine, TX, and get your skates on! The town is full of charming attractions, and ice skating at the Civic Center is just one of many ways to get into the holiday spirit. It's an experience that's sure to create treasured memories that will last a lifetime.

Pictures with Santa

Palestine, TX is a small town in East Texas with a lot of holiday spirit. If you're looking for a festive activity this Christmas season, why not take your family to get pictures with Santa?

The Palestine Mall, located at 2000 S Loop 256, is offering pictures with Santa from November 27th until December 24th. You can book your appointment online at their website or just walk-in if space is available. You'll get to visit with Santa and take home a keepsake photo to remember the special moment.

Another option for pictures with Santa in Palestine is the Polar Express Train Ride. Located at the Texas State Railroad, about 20 minutes outside of Palestine, this train ride takes you on a magical journey to the North Pole. While you're there, you'll get to meet Santa and his elves for pictures and Christmas wishes. Be sure to dress warmly and bring your Christmas spirit for this festive adventure.

No matter which option you choose, pictures with Santa are a great way to create holiday memories with your loved ones. In Palestine, you'll find a warm and welcoming community ready to share in the joy of the season. So gather your family and head to Palestine, TX for a memorable Christmas experience that you'll cherish for years to come.

Christmas Caroling

Christmas is a time for joy, laughter, and spreading love to everyone around. In Palestine, TX, the festive season is no different. This town located in East Texas is full of cheerful people who prepare for Christmas with the utmost zeal and enthusiasm. There is no better way to celebrate this auspicious occasion than by joining hands together and participating in community activities.

One of the most popular community activities that take place during the Christmas season in Palestine, TX, is Christmas caroling. The tradition of Christmas caroling dates back centuries and is still cherished by many. It is a beautiful way of spreading holiday cheer and creating memories that last a lifetime.

The streets of Palestine are filled with singing, dancing, and joy as people come together to sing Christmas carols. This activity is usually organized by different groups, including churches, schools, community organizations, and even families. People of all ages are welcome to participate in Christmas caroling, and it's always a joyful experience.

One of the highlights of Christmas caroling in Palestine, TX, is the "Lighted Christmas Parade." Every year, more than 100 floats filled with colorful lights and decorations make their way through the streets of Palestine, creating a magical experience for both the participants and spectators. The parade is usually followed by Christmas caroling, where everyone joins in singing their favorite Christmas carols.

Another popular location for Christmas caroling is the Historic Anderson County Courthouse. Built-in 1913, the courthouse is a beautiful location for community events, especially during the festive season. People gather around the courthouse to sing traditional Christmas carols and other holiday favorites. The beautiful architecture of the courthouse provides the perfect backdrop for this joyous activity.

In conclusion, Christmas caroling is an essential part of the Christmas season in Palestine, TX. It is a beautiful way of spreading joy and creating memories that last a lifetime. Whether you're participating in the "Lighted Christmas Parade," singing at the Historic Anderson County Courthouse, or simply going door-to-door with a group of friends, Christmas caroling in Palestine, TX, promises to be an unforgettable experience.

Christmas Movie Night

Looking for a fun and festive way to celebrate Christmas in Palestine, TX? Host a Christmas Movie Night! Gather your family and friends, some blankets and pillows, and settle in for a cozy night of holiday movies and treats.

To start your movie night off right, set the mood by decorating your living room with string lights, stockings, and a beautifully decorated Christmas tree. Make sure to have plenty of blankets and pillows for everyone to get comfortable.

Next, choose a lineup of classic Christmas movies to watch. Some suggestions include "It's a Wonderful Life," "A Christmas Carol," "Elf," "Home Alone," "The Polar Express," and "The Grinch Who Stole Christmas." You can even create a voting system for your guests to choose the movie(s) they want to watch.

Now for the snacks! Popcorn is a must-have for any movie night. Make it extra festive by adding some holiday spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, or by adding some Christmas-themed candies like red and green M&Ms. You can also serve hot chocolate with whipped cream and candy canes for a cozy touch.

Finally, consider adding some fun activities to your movie night. You can play holiday-themed games like Christmas charades or a Christmas trivia game. You can also encourage your guests to wear their favorite Christmas pajamas or ugly sweaters for some added holiday cheer.

Overall, hosting a Christmas Movie Night is a great way to celebrate the holiday season in Palestine, TX. It's a fun, easy, and affordable way to bring together friends and family for a night of festive fun. So grab your snacks, fire up the movies, and get ready to have a holly jolly good time!

Holiday Lights Tour

If you're looking for a festive way to get into the holiday spirit, look no further than Palestine, TX. The quaint town comes alive each December with dazzling lights and magical decorations - making it the perfect destination for a Holiday Lights Tour.

One of the most popular attractions in the town is the Grinch's Lair, which is transformed into a whimsical winter wonderland during the holiday season. Visitors are invited to wander through the lair and take pictures with the Grinch himself. There are also plenty of festive photo opportunities with sights like the "Twelve Days of Christmas" display and the "Santa's Workshop" exhibit.

Another must-see sight in Palestine during the holidays is the "North Pole Express." This train ride offers guests a unique perspective on the town's famous light displays. Passengers can sip hot cocoa and nibble on holiday treats as they travel through some of the most beautiful neighborhoods in Palestine, all while enjoying the sparkle of Christmas lights.

For those looking to add a bit of adventure to their tour, the “Christmas in the Park” event offers visitors a chance to ride ponies through the Christmas wonderland. The event also boasts an ice skating rink, giant slide, and a rock climbing wall. There’s something for everyone and each activity will surely leave a lasting Christmas memory.

In addition to these festive attractions, downtown Palestine is also home to a variety of local shops, eateries, and boutiques, making it the perfect place to do some holiday shopping. Visitors can also experience the charm of the town's historic district, with beautifully decorated Victorian homes.

Overall, a holiday lights tour in Palestine, TX is a must-do for anyone looking for a magical way to celebrate the season. With plenty of attractions, unique experiences, and holiday cheer to go around, you'll leave the town feeling full of Christmas spirit.

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