December 2007 Calendar of Events for Texas

December 2007

1­—ABILENE: Gary Morris in Concert Begins at 7:30 p.m. Paramount Theatre. 325/677-6815 PANHANDLE PLAINS

1—ABILENE: Philharmonic Concert Begins at 8 p.m. Abilene Civic Center. 325/677-6710 or 800/460-0610 PANHANDLE PLAINS

1—ABILENE: Ward Brothers Seniors Team Roping Taylor County Expo Center, Horse Barn. 325/677-4376 PANHANDLE PLAINS

1—ALVARADO: Santaland Arts Festival Includes animated Christmas light displays, live Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus, and an arts & crafts festival. Downtown Square. www.alvaradopubliclibrary.org 817/783-7323 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—ANGLETON: 20th Annual Christmas on the Square Includes barbecue and chili cook-offs, carnival, lunch with Santa, craft booths, food vendors, parade of lights and more. Downtown Angleton. www.angletonchamber.org 979/849-6443 GULF COAST

1—ATHENS: Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting Athens Town Square. 888/294-2847 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—AUSTIN: Birdsong (Conspirare Children’s Choir) Begins at 7:30 p.m. St. Louis Catholic Church, 7601 Burnet Road. www.conspirare.org 512/476-5775 HILL COUNTRY

1—AUSTIN: Thomas Viloteau (France) Winner of the most prestigious international guitar competition performs at 8 p.m. Northwest Hills United Methodist Church. www.austinclassicalguitar.org 512/300-ACGS HILL COUNTRY

1—AVERY: Avery PTO Christmas Parade Downtown Avery. 903/684-3562 or 903/684-3173 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—BASTROP: Bastrop Public Library Book Sale Includes hardback and paperback books, DVDs, CDs and videos. Rare books are offered in a silent auction. Bastrop Public Library. 512/321-5441 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—BEAUMONT: Very Merry Main Street Market Includes Thursday Holiday Happy Hours with early bird shopping, cocktails, raffles, holiday luncheon and Gingerbread House Workshop for children. www.juniorleaguebeaumont.com 409/832-0873 GULF COAST

1—BEAUMONT: Winter Wonderland 2007: Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting Festival Kicks off at 3:30 p.m. with cookie decorating. Kids will have an opportunity to create ornaments to hang on the tree. Santa Claus stops by. The evening culminates with a lighted parade through Historic Downtown. 409/880-3716 GULF COAST

1—BELLVILLE: Market Day on the Square
Includes arts & crafts, collectibles, jewelry, antiques, great food and entertainment. Downtown Bellville. www.bellville.com 979/865-3407 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—BELLVILLE: Small Town Christmas Begins with breakfast with Santa, gingerbread house decorating, children’s pageant, Littlest Angel Photo Contest and continuous live entertainment. Downtown Bellville. www.bellville.com 979/865-3407 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—BENBROOK: 15th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting & Fireworks Show Begins at 7 p.m. E-mail: jhartman@cityofbenbrook.com 817/249-6082 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—BIG SPRING: Big Spring Herald Christmas Parade Start with activities at the Heritage Museum, including watching the parade, then enjoy beautiful music from the Living Christmas Tree at the First United Methodist Church. Gregg Street. www.bigspringherald.com 432/263-7331 PANHANDLE PLAINS

1—BOERNE: Weihnachts Fest Parade After the night Christmas parade, enjoy live music, food booths, Santa at the Gazebo for pictures, and more. Downtown Boerne. www.visitboerne.org 866/925-2422 HILL COUNTRY

1—BOWIE: Fantasy of Lights Christmas Festival & Parade Includes arts & crafts sale from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Santa photos from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., pre-parade music and food at 5 p.m. and parade at 7 p.m. Downtown Bowie. www.bowietxchamber.org 940/872-6246 or 940/872-1173 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—BRACKEN: 19th Annual Christmas Along the Corridor/Charles Dickens Christmas Celebration Dickens Christmas Celebration is from 6 to 10 p.m. Thursday through Saturday. Christmas Along the Corridor Pony Express Courier is welcomed at 1 p.m. Saturday. Bracken Village. www.brackenvillagesa.com 210/651-6935 HILL COUNTRy

1—BRADY: Christmas in the Heart Includes arts & crafts vendors set up around the square, Christmas music, carriage rides, pictures with Santa Claus and kids activities. Courthouse Square. E-mail: chamber@bradytx.us • www.bradytx.com 325/597-3491 HILL COUNTRY

1—BRENHAM: Christmas at the Mansion Heritage Belles bring the 1869 Giddings Stone Mansion alive. Activities, entertainment and pictures with Santa Claus create a magical experience. www.brenham-mansion.com 979/836-1690 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—BRENHAM: Holiday Stroll, Parade & Street Dance Enjoy spiced tea, hot cider, entertainment and holiday shopping. The downtown lighted parade brings Santa to the square on Saturday. The parade is followed by a street dance. www.downtownbrenham.com 979/836-3339 or 888/273-6426 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—BRYAN: 26th Annual Christmas Shoppers Arts & Crafts Show Showcases more than 100 quality artists and craftspeople. Brazos Center. 979/776-8338 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—BRYAN: Brunch with Santa & Rudolph’s 5-K Fun Run & Walk Raise holiday awareness for a healthier new year. Then enter the museum for a picture with Santa, scrumptious goodies and winter crafts. The Children’s Museum. 979/779-KIDS PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—CASTROVILLE: Old-Fashioned Christmas Includes Santa at 1 p.m.; arts & crafts and food booths; and entertainment. Hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Houston Square. www.castroville.com 830/538-3142 HILL COUNTRY

1—CELINA: Christmas in Celina Enjoy ice skating under the stars, Santa’s House, carolers, choirs, local bands, arts & crafts, and more. Hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Historic Downtown Celina. www.considercelina.com 972/382-8949 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—CESTOHOWA: 19th Annual Christmas Along the Corridor Welcomes Pony Express Christmas courier; special Pony Express cancellations. Beautiful, 130-year-old Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church will be open to the public. 830/745-2100 SOUTH TEXAS PLAINS

1—CHARLOTTE: 19th Annual Christmas Along the Corridor Welcomes the Pony Express Christmas Couriers and features a festive night parade through downtown. Downtown Charlotte. 830/277-1414 SOUTH TEXAS PLAINS

1—CLEBURNE: Candlewalk Tour of Homes Visit turn-of-the-century homes in historic parts of Cleburne. Hours are 2 to 9 p.m. 817/641-7433 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—CLEBURNE: International Christmas Market Offers traditional, Old World holiday ambience from America, Russia, Germany, Sweden, France, Czechoslovakia, England, Poland, Belgium and Mexico from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Market Square, Downtown Cleburne. www.whistlestopchristmas.org 817/645-2455 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—CLEBURNE: Whistle Stop Christmas in Hulen Park Includes Santa Claus, live entertainment, arts & crafts, children’s activities and a live nativity scene. www.whistlestopchristmas.org 817/645-2455 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—CLEBURNE: Whistle Stop Christmas Parade Begins at 6 p.m. Winds through the historic downtown district to Hulen Park. www.whistlestopchristmas.org 817/645-2455 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—CLIFTON: Norwegian Country Christmas Home Tour Features homes, history and art. Visit the globally recognized museum, state of the art conservatory, Norwegian heritage homes and churches. Shop at Heritage Village and visit Historic Clifton Shops. www.cliftontexas.org 254/675-3720 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—COLORADO CITY: Festival of Trees Includes tour of decorated Christmas trees, music and chili supper. Railhead Building. www.coloradocitychamberofcommerce.com 325/728-3403 PANHANDLE PLAINS

1—COLUMBUS: Holiday Extravaganza Retail & Craft Fair Includes regional vendors with gifts, clothing, jewelry and more. Enjoy local entertainment. Veterans Memorial Hall. www.columbustexas.org 979/732-8385 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—CORSICANA: Corsicana Opry Martin’s Music Hall, 201 S. Beaton. 903/872-8226 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—CRANFILLS GAP: 43rd Annual Authentic Norwegian Lutefisk Dinner Enjoy a full lutefisk and turkey dinner with all the trimmings. On Hwy. 22, between Meridian and Hamilton. www.cranfillsgapisd.com 254/597-1515 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—DALLAS: Messiah Sing-Along Begins at 7 p.m. Our Redeemer Lutheran Church. www.dallasbach.org 214/320-8700 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—DALLAS: Neiman Marcus Adolphus Children’s Christmas Parade Enjoy marching bands, magnificent floats, acrobats and even a visit from Santa. Adolphus Hotel. 214/742-8200 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—DECATUR: Moonlight Madness Enjoy a lighted Christmas parade, shopping, kids activities, carriage rides, vendor booths and more. Historic Downtown Decatur. www.decaturtx.com 940/627-3107 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—DEWEES: Christmas Along the Corridor & Christmas Open House The Antique Dewees Remschel House welcomes the Pony Express Christmas Courier and holds a Christmas open house with live, traditional holiday music and docents in period costume. 830/393-3385 SOUTH TEXAS PLAINS

1—EL PASO: Old West Gunfight Tour This 1 1/2-hour walking tour of downtown El Paso includes stories of the people and events that gave El Paso the title “Gun Fight Capitol of the World.” Camino Real Hotel. 915/920-1415 BIG BEND COUNTRY

1—EL PASO: San Jacinto Plaza Christmas Tree Lighting The annual “Christmas in Lights” continues the holiday tradition of the plaza’s spectacular Christmas tree and displays. Entertainment begins at 4:30 p.m. with the lighting at 6 p.m., followed by the Holiday Lights Parade. San Jacinto Plaza downtown. 915/533-3311 BIG BEND COUNTRY

1—ELGIN: Holiday by the Tracks & Lighted Parade Features live music, photos with Santa, children’s activities, lighted parade on Main Street (beginning shortly after dark) and more. Veterans Memorial Park. www.elgintx.com 512/281-5724 ext. 17 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—ELMENDORF: 19th Annual Christmas Along the Corridor Community welcomes the Pony Express Christmas Courier and celebrates with a parade, food and festivities. 210/635-8210 SOUTH TEXAS PLAINS

1—FARMERS BRANCH: Christmas in the Branch Tree Lighting Ceremony Begins at 7 p.m. 972/919-2620 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—FAYETTEVILLE: Texas Authors on the Square & Country Christmas 713/444-6219 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—FLORESVILLE: 19th Annual Christmas Along the Corridor/Floresville Festival of Light The Pony Express Rider arrives at noon at the Wilson County Courthouse. Continues with the night parade and lighting of the courthouse and square. Includes food, entertainment, games and holiday activities. Downtown Square Floresville. 830/393-0074 SOUTH TEXAS PLAINS

1—FORT DAVIS: First Saturday Flea Market Vendors from all over the West Texas area sell arts & crafts. Old Fort Country. www.oldfortcountry.biz 432/426-2742 BIG BEND COUNTRY

1—FORT DAVIS: Frontier Christmas Enjoy a parade, visit with Santa, tour of homes and more. Fort Davis Town Square. www.fortdavis.com 432/426-3015 BIG BEND COUNTRY

1—FRISCO: Heritage Association Holiday Home Tour Highlights eight homes located in Downtown Frisco and built between 1902 and 1924. Includes a merchandise area with Christmas gifts and ornaments. Downtown. www.friscoheritage.org 972/335-6684 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—FRISCO: Merry Main Street Santa makes his traditional journey down Main Street to kick off the city’s holiday season. Includes music by local school choirs, children’s activities and annual holiday tree lighting. Frisco Square. www.friscotexas.gov 972/292-5000 or 972/292-6500 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—GAINESVILLE: Annual Chamber Lighted Christmas Parade Downtown Gainesville. www.gogainesville.net 940/665-2831 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—GAINESVILLE: Zoo Lights & Visit with Santa Stop at the zoo after the parade and have a photo taken with Santa and a live animal. Enjoy a cookie and hot chocolate and decorate a Christmas ornament. Frank Buck Zoo. www.frankbuckzoo.com 940/668-4533 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—GEORGETOWN: 27th Annual Christmas Stroll www.downtowngeorgetownassociation.org 512/868-8675 HILL COUNTRY

1—GILMER: Yulefest Breakfast with Santa begins at 8:30 a.m. at the Gilmer High School Cafeteria. Santa Claus parade starts at 5:45 p.m. www.gilmerareachamber.com 903/843-2413 PINEY WOODS

1—GOLDTHWAITE: Arts & Crafts Fair Hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mills County Civic Center. E-mail: gcc@centex.net • www.goldthwaite.biz 325/648-3619 HILL COUNTRY

1—GOLDTHWAITE: Parade of Lights Begins at 6 p.m. Downtown. www.goldthwaite.biz 325/648-3619 HILL COUNTRY

1—GOLIAD: 19th Annual Christmas Along the Corridor/Christmas in Goliad Christmas couriers start at the Presidio La Bahia with stops at Mission Espiritu Santo and the Courthouse Square in Goliad. Includes entertainment and a Christmas program downtown. Christmas in Goliad is held during the evening. See the History in Lights at the Mission through December. 361/645-3563 or 361/645-3752 SOUTH TEXAS PLAINS

1—GONZALES: Courthouse Trade Days Downtown squares. E-mail: info@gonzalestexas.com 830/672-2815 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—GONZALES: Gonzales County Book Fair Features Texas authors. Liford’s Books & Fine Art. E-mail: info@gonzalestexas.com 830/672-6532 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—GONZALES: Historical Program Gonzales: The Beginning Begins at 11 a.m. Historic Gonzales County Courthouse. E-mail: info@gonzalestexas.com 830/672-6532 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—GRAND PRAIRIE: Historic Copeland Home Open House Tour the historic home from 1 to 4 p.m. 125 S.W. Dallas St. 972/237-8140 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—GRAND PRAIRIE: Winter Wonderland City Hall Plaza sparkles with lights during the holiday season. The annual Christmas tree lighting includes the arrival of Santa Claus, holiday music, horse-drawn carriage rides and more. 972/237-8100 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—GRAPEVINE: Fabulous Fifties Jukebox Begins at 7:30 p.m. Grapevine Opry, Palace Theatre. www.grapevinetexasusa.com 817/410-3185 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—GRUENE: Jason Boland & The Stragglers Gruene Hall. www.gruenehall.com 830/629-5077 HILL COUNTRY

1—GRUENE: Gruene Town Lighting & Annual Christmas Along the Corridor The Gruene Historic District receives Pony Express riders from the Comal County Sheriff’s Posse at 10 a.m. At 6 p.m., Cowboy Kringle rides into town on horseback and the town is lit. www.gruenehall.com 830/629-5077 or 830/606-1601 HILL COUNTRY

1—HARLINGEN: Jackson Street Market Day Features antiques, crafts, sidewalk sales, produce cart and food vendors. Hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Downtown. 956/423-4041 GULF COAST

1—HELENA: 19th Annual Christmas Along the Corridor Welcomes Pony Express Christmas Courier. All historic buildings in Helena will be open. The Old Helena Post Office — established in 1853 and closed in 1951 — is open for this one day. 830/780-3210 SOUTH TEXAS PLAINS

1—HUNTSVILLE: Journey through Bethlehem The fairgrounds are transformed into old Bethlehem where visitors can enjoy the sights and sounds of how life was the night Jesus was born. Walker County Fairgrounds. 936/295-7459 PINEY WOODS

1—IRVING: Holiday Extravaganza Parade & Tree Lighting Celebrates the spirit of the season. Downtown Irving. www.cityofirving.org 972/721-2426 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—KARNES CITY: Christmas Along the Corridor Welcomes the Pony Express Christmas Courier. Includes the St. Nick’s Christmas Fair at the new Karnes City Park on Browne Street and a festive Christmas program. 830/780-3112 SOUTH TEXAS PLAINS

1—KENEDY: 19th Annual Christmas Along the Corridor Community welcomes the Pony Express Christmas Courier. Includes a Christmas program. Santa will visit for pictures with children at City Hall. 830/583-3223 SOUTH TEXAS PLAINS

1—KINGSVILLE: La Posada de Kingsville Parade of Lights The theme is “Silver Bells.” Includes floats, bands and other entries. Kleberg Avenue. www.kingsvilletexas.com 361/592-8516 GULF COAST

1—LA PORTE: Pearl Harbor Ceremony Join in paying respect to those whose sacrifices saved our freedom. Begins at 11 a.m. Battleship Texas State Historic Site. www.tpwd.state.tx.us 281/479-2431 GULF COAST

1—LA VERNIA: 19th Annual Christmas Along the Corridor Welcomes the Pony Express Christmas Courier at the Fire Station on Hwy. 775. Christmas tree lighting is at the La Vernia City Park. 830/779-2438 SOUTH TEXAS PLAINS

1—LAKE DALLAS: Lake Dallas Holiday Lighting Celebration The holidays are celebrated with the ceremonial lighting of the Christmas Tree, live music, kids crafts and free pictures with Santa. Features the Main Street Stroll. Lake Dallas City Hall & Main Street. www.lakedallas.com/calendar.html 940/497-2226 ext. 132 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—LEWISVILLE: Holiday at the Hall Includes breakfast with Santa, holiday tree-lighting celebration, parade, children’s area, entertainment, Santa and the annual Motorcycle Toy Run. Old Town Lewisville, Main Street. www.visitlewisville.com 972/219-3401 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—LIBERTY: Fantastic ‘50s Show Liberty Opry, Historic Park Theater. www.libertyopry.com 877/729-9103 PINEY WOODS

1—LINDEN: First Saturday Show with Richard Bowden and Moon & the Starz Music City Texas Theater. www.musiccitytexas.org 903/756-9934 PINEY WOODS

1—LINDEN: Winterfest Includes Santa, vendors, parade and entertainment. On the Square. www.lindentexas.org 903/756-3106 PINEY WOODS

1—LLANO: Christmas Home Tour 325/247-3800 HILL COUNTRY

1—LOCKHART: A Dickens Christmas in Lockhart Includes storytellers, authors, juggler, clown, pony rides, choirs, dancers, children’s activities, arts & crafts and food. Eugene Clark Library. www.lockhart-chamber.com 512/398-2818 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—LONGVIEW: Living History Christmas The museum comes alive with docents in Victorian dress, live music, blacksmith and mule-drawn wagon rides. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Gregg County Historical Museum. www.gregghistorical.org 903/753-5840 PINEY WOODS

1—MADISONVILLE: Annual Nighttime Christmas Parade Begins about 6 p.m. around the Downtown Square. Children can visit with Santa after the parade. www.madisonvillechamber.com 936/348-3591 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—MANSFIELD: Breakfast with Santa Children can enjoy a pancake breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Claus, then move on to the Christmas parade with floats, marching bands and Santa on a fire engine, plus crafts shows and entertainment on stage in the activity center. Mansfield Activity Center. E-mail: andrew.binz@ci.mansfield.tx.us 817/804-5797 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—MANSFIELD: Tour of Homes Hours are 2 to 8 p.m. E-mail: info@thetecklenburggroup.com 817/366-3994 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—MARATHON: Fiesta de Noche Buena Includes shopping, holiday music, pictures with Santa Claus and other special activities. U.S. 90, Marathon’s main street. www.marathontexas.net 432/386-4516 BIG BEND COUNTRY

1—MARSHALL: Heart & Hands Quilt Club Quilt Show Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Marshall Visual Art Center. 903/938-7453 PINEY WOODS

1—MCGREGOR: Christmas Tree Lighting & Parade Enjoy the downtown parade, tree lighting at the gazebo and live entertainment. Downtown McGregor. www.mcgregor-texas.com 254/840-0123 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—MINEOLA: Annual Christmas Parade The day begins with Breakfast with Santa at the Old Post Office Museum. Parade begins at 1 p.m. E-mail: chamber@mineola.com • www.mineolachamber.org 903/569-2087 PINEY WOODS

1—MINEOLA: Annual Tour of Homes www.mineola.com 903/569-6983 PINEY WOODS

1—MINEOLA: Historical Museum’s Annual Breakfast with Santa 903/569-6983 PINEY WOODS

1—MONAHANS: Christmas Jubilee Showcases elegant Christmas merchandise for unique gift giving. Ward County Convention Center. www.monahans.org 432/943-2187 BIG BEND COUNTRY

1—MOUNT PLEASANT: Rotary Club Christmas Parade Begins at 10 a.m. Downtown Mount Pleasant. www.mtpleasanttx.com 903/572-8567 PINEY WOODS

1—NACOGDOCHES: 10th Annual Jingle Bell 5-K Fun Run & 3-K Walk Begins at 8:30 a.m. www.nineflagsfestival.com 888/653-3788 PINEY WOODS

1—NACOGDOCHES: Breakfast with Santa Hours are 8 to 10 a.m. Cafe Fredonia, 200 N. Fredonia St. www.nineflagsfestival.com 888/653-3788 PINEY WOODS

1—NACOGDOCHES: Lighted Christmas Parade Begins at 6:30 p.m. Parade is followed by fireworks. www.visitnacogdoches.org 888/653-3788 PINEY WOODS

1—NEEDVILLE: A Simple Christmas Enjoy an afternoon making s’mores, Dutch oven cooking, rope making, pinatas, hayrides and a visit from Southern Santa. Bring a picnic supper and listen to The Brazos River Pickers, bluegrass band. Brazos Bend State Park. 979/553-5101 GULF COAST

1—NEW BRAUNFELS: Christmas Tour of Homes 830/625-4154 or 830/660-7928 HILL COUNTRY

1—ODESSA: Feast of Sharing Offers a free, hot holiday meal. Includes health screenings and activities for children and adults. Ector County Coliseum. 432/632-4508 BIG BEND COUNTRY

1—ODESSA: Heritage Holiday Parade of Lights Begins at 6:30 p.m. at 23rd Street near Odessa College and travels down Andrews Highway to Noel Heritage Plaza on 4th Street. 432/335-4684 BIG BEND COUNTRY

1—ODESSA: White-Pool House Museum Open House Follows the Christmas parade. Hours are 7 to 9 p.m. 112 E. Murphy St. 432/333-4072 BIG BEND COUNTRY

1—OZONA: 20th Annual Deerfest Game dinner celebrates the hunters that frequent Crockett County. Crockett County Convention Center. E-mail: oztxcoc@aol.com 325/392-3737 HILL COUNTRY

1—PALESTINE: Embrace the Arts Enjoy a progressive art tour with stops at up to six venues. Museum for East Texas Culture, Palestine Library and other venues. www.visitpalestine.com 903/723-3014 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—PALESTINE: Christmas in the Museum Marketplace Includes visits with Mr. and Mrs. Claus, arts & crafts, gift items and food. Museum for East Texas Culture. E-mail: sleonard@palestine-tx.org 903/723-1914 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—PANNA MARIA: 19th Annual Christmas Along the Corridor Community welcomes the Pony Express Christmas Couriers at the Post Office. The historic church and St. Joseph School Museum is open for tours. Find sausage wraps and baked goods at Snoga’s Store. 830/780-4471, 830/780-4005 or 830/583-6236 SOUTH TEXAS PLAINS

1—PEARLAND: Lighted Christmas Parade Local groups display decorated floats and marching entries along the parade route of FM 518. Begins at 5:30 p.m. www.pearlandparks.com 281/652-1673 GULF COAST

1—PLEASANTON: 19th Annual Christmas Along the Corridor Community welcomes the Pony Express Christmas Couriers with a Brush Country Christmas at the downtown gazebo. 830/569-2163 SOUTH TEXAS PLAINS

1—PORT ISABEL: Christmas Lighted Boat Parade 956/943-2262 GULF COAST

1—PORT NECHES: Christmas Parade Includes decorated floats, bands, dance schools and churches. Begins at 2 p.m. Port Neches Avenue. www.portnecheschamber.com 409/722-9154 GULF COAST

1—POTEET: 19th Annual Christmas Along the Corridor 830/742-3535 SOUTH TEXAS PLAINS

1—POTH: 19th Annual Christmas Along the Corridor Welcomes the Pony Express Christmas Couriers. Christmas program is held. Dilworth Plaza. 830/484-2111 SOUTH TEXAS PLAINS

1—QUANAH: 11th Annual Lighted Christmas Parade & Festival Enjoy a craft show, buggy rides, visit with Santa, Gingerbread house contest, music, 6 p.m. parade, games and contests from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. E-mail: quanahcoc@cebridge.net 940/663-2222 PANHANDLE PLAINS

1—RICHMOND: Miracle on Morton Street Santa will repel from the water tower and streets will be filled with children’s fun and vendors. Enjoy live entertainment. E-mail: lalate@aol.com 281/342-4500 GULF COAST

1—ROCKDALE: Christmas Ball Billy Mata and the Texas Traditions will perform. Special guest is Floyd Domino. Knights of Columbus Hall. www.rockdalechamber.com 512/446-2030 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—ROCKPORT: Tropical Christmas Festival Enjoy entertainment, night parade and fireworks. Rockport Harbor area. E-mail: records@cityofrockport.com 361/729-2213 ext. 121 GULF COAST

1—ROSENBERG: Christmas in Rosenberg Includes talented performers, gift merchants, amazing crafters, carnival area, Railroad Museum tours, Santa and Mrs. Claus , theatrical performances and more. Historic Downtown District. www.visitrosenberg.com 832/595-3525 GULF COAST

1—RUNGE: 19th Annual Christmas Along the Corridor Includes a Christmas program. Post Office/Runge City Park. 830/239-4121 SOUTH TEXAS PLAINS

1—SAN ANGELO: First Saturday at the Old Chicken Farm Art Center 2505 Martin Luther King. 325/653-4936 PANHANDLE PLAINS

1—SAN ANGELO: San Angelo Symphony — Christmas Pops Concert Enjoy Christmas songs and holiday delights. Begins at 8 p.m. Junell Center. 325/658-5877 PANHANDLE PLAINS

1—SAN ANTONIO: 19th Annual Christmas Along the Corridor Ends the 100-mile event. Includes equestrian drills, U.S. Army Medical Command Band, Pony Express cancellations, living history displays, music, dance, rodeo drills and more. Fort Sam Houston Arthur MacArthur Field. 210/362-5200 SOUTH TEXAS PLAINS

1—SAN ANTONIO: Christmas in the Mansion 2007 Browse and shop the Christmas Fair with wonderful specialty items from Texas vendors. On Saturday, make reservations for breakfast, activities and a photograph with Santa. www.thewomansclubsa.org 210/732-4811 SOUTH TEXAS PLAINS

1—SAN ANTONIO: Dr Pepper Big 12 Football Championship Alamodome. www.big12sports.com 210/207-3663 or 210/224-9600 SOUTH TEXAS PLAINS

1—SAN ANTONIO: Kristkindlmarkt German Christmas Shopping Fair. Beethoven Hall and Garden. 210/222-1521 SOUTH TEXAS PLAINS

1—SAN ANTONIO: Mariachi Vargas Extravaganza Includes a concert featuring Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlan. One thousand mariachi students participate in the largest mariachi group and vocal competitions in the U.S. “Serenata en el Rio,” mariachi workshops, a mariachi mass and community performances. www.mariachimusic.com SOUTH TEXAS PLAINS

1—SCHERTZ: 19th Annual Christmas Along the Corridor Welcomes the Pony Express Christmas courier at the Christmas at the Park celebration. Schertz City Park. 210/566-9000 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—SEALY: Fantasy of Lights Begins at 6 p.m. Lions Club Park. www.sealychamber.com 979/885-3222 or 979/885-3344 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—SEALY: Fantasy of Lights Parade Lighted Christmas parade with more than 80 participating floats begins at 6 p.m. Main Street across from City Hall. www.sealychamber.com 979/885-3222 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—SEALY: Kids Fantasy Includes games, crafts to make, fun rides and Santa Claus. Next to City Hall, corner of Main Street and Atchison. E-mail: rgriffin@christian-city.net • www.christian-city.net 979/885-3113 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—SEGUIN: 19th Annual Christmas Along the Corridor Welcomes the Pony Express courier at 1 p.m. with commemorative postal cancellations by the U.S. Postal Service from noon to 2 p.m. at the Heritage Museum. Kicks off the annual Holiday Home Tour. 830/401-5000 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—SINTON: Welder Wildlife Foundation Public Tours Includes lessons in local ecology, conservation and history. www.welderwildlife.org 361/364-2643 GULF COAST

1—SULPHUR SPRINGS: Christmas Festival on Heritage Square Enjoy the parade and festival with arts & crafts, entertainment stage, courthouse tours, bed races, children’s train rides and more. tourism.sulphurspringstx.org (no www) 888/300-6623 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—TAYLOR: Christmas Parade of Lights Includes Santa, music, town lighting and more. Main Street, Hwy. 95. www.abouttaylortx.org 512/352-6364 HILL COUNTRY

1—VICTORIA: Lighted Christmas Parade — Tinsels, Toys & Timeless Treasurers Begins at 6 p.m. Downtown Victoria. www.victoriatx.org 361/485-3200 GULF COAST

1—WACO: 18th Annual Jingle Bell Run/Walk People tie jingle bells to their shoe laces and come together to run, walk and raise money to fight arthritis. Registration begins at 4 p.m. Wheelchair Division begins at 5 p.m. and 5-K and 1-mile begin at 5:05 p.m. Heritage Square, Downtown. www.arthritis.org 254/772-9303 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—WACO: Jaycee Christmas Parade & Christmas Tree Lighting Parade begins at 6 p.m. at 13th and Austin Avenue, moves down Austin Avenue and ends at Heritage Square for the 7:30 p.m. Christmas tree lighting. www.wacocvb.com 254/761-6300 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—WAXAHACHIE: Christmas Market & Gift Show Waxahachie Civic Center. www.waxahachiechamber.com 972/937-2390 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—WAXAHACHIE: Waxahachie Downtown Christmas Parade Around the Courthouse Square. www.waxahachiechamber.com 972/937-2390 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—WEATHERFORD: Christmas on the Square Includes Christmas carolers, stage performances, inflatable activities, chuck wagon, Santa Claus, carriage rides, Christmas music and more. Historic Downtown Area. www.visitweatherford.com 888/594-3801 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—WEATHERFORD: Texas Pythian Home for Children Classic Car Show & Christmas Party Children of the home pick the winners. Hours are noon to 4 p.m. 1825 Bankhead Road. www.ddrockinrods.com 817/797-1197 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—WEIMAR: CDA Christmas Bazaar Includes food, drink, arts & crafts, and a silent auction. St. Michael Family Center, 500 N. Center. 979/725-8372 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1—WOODVILLE: Christmas in Tyler County Enjoy shopping and have breakfast with some favorite Christmas characters. Outside, find food vendors and listen to classic Christmas music. Tour some of the areas most beautiful homes and bed and breakfasts. www.tylercountychamber.org 409/283-2632 PINEY WOODS

1—WOODVILLE: Twilight Tour Heritage Village Museum. www.heritage-village.org 409/283-2272 PINEY WOODS

1-2—ABILENE: Everything Natural Arts & Crafts Show Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Abilene Civic Center. 325/993-4524 or 325/676-6211 PANHANDLE PLAINS

1-2—ABILENE: Silver Spur Gun & Blade Sale Taylor County Expo Center. 806/253-1322 PANHANDLE PLAINS

1-2—ABILENE: USTA Championship Junior Major Zone Rose Park Tennis Center, 810 Portland. 325/676-6292 PANHANDLE PLAINS

1-2—ANDREWS: Holly Jolly Weekend Includes Christmastime Festival of Homes on Saturday and Holly Jolly Christmas Bazaar on Saturday and Sunday. www.andrewstx.com 432/523-2695 PANHANDLE PLAINS

1-2—ATHENS: NBHA Barrel Racing Henderson County Fairpark Complex. 903/677-6354 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-2—AUSTIN: 17th Annual Holiday Shopping Event Includes book signings, exhibits, demonstrations in the store and artists and artisans in the Visitor’s Gallery. Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. www.wildflower.org 512/232-0100 HILL COUNTRY

1-2—AUSTIN: Gem Capers 2007 Includes jewelry, beads, gemstones, minerals, crystals, fossils, spheres and lapidary equipment with more than 30 vendors. Palmer Events Center. www.austingemandmineral.org 512/458-9546 HILL COUNTRY

1-2—BELLVILLE: 2007 Holiday Home Tour Visit historic homes, plus some intriguing ones, in Austin County and surrounding areas. Begins at Downtown Bellville. E-mail: bellvillechamber@sbcglobal.net 979/865-1565 or 979/885-4678 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-2—BIG SPRING: Living Christmas Tree Includes 100 voices, 36 orchestra members, 20 children’s choir members and 20 cast members. First United Methodist Church. www.fumcbs.org 432/267-6394 PANHANDLE PLAINS

1-2—BOERNE: Oma’s Christmas Fair Features handcrafted items and an authentic German lunch and Santa. Kendall County Fairgrounds. www.visitboerne.org 830/249-2541 HILL COUNTRY

1-2—BUDA: Budafest Parade at 10 a.m. on Saturday opens the festival. Includes arts & crafts booths, entertainment and Santa after the parade. Greenbelt in downtown Buda. www.budafest.org 512/694-3413 HILL COUNTRY

1-2—CANTON: First Monday Trade Days Includes arts & crafts, food concessions and more. Old Mill Market Place. www.oldmillmarketplace.com 903/567-5445 or 903/567-6556 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-2—CORPUS CHRISTI: Kristie Kringle’s Garden Shoppe Open House Find lots of unique gift selections, including signature handmade Mesquite Bean Santas, Trumpet Vine Santas and Gourd Santas. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. South Texas Botanical Gardens & Nature Center. www.stxbot.org 361/852-2100 GULF COAST

1-2—DALLAS: Dallas Symphony Orchestra Beethoven Festival Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center. www.dallassymphony.com 214/692-0203 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-2—EL CAMPO: El Campo Chamber Christmas Mall Hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. El Campo Civic Center. 979/543-2713 GULF COAST

1-2—EL PASO: Kids-N-Co. Presents a holiday show, The Littlest Angel. Chamizal National Memorial. 915/351-1455 BIG BEND COUNTRY

1-2—FREDERICKSBURG: Weihnachten Christmas market and festival combines traditional and new events. Kicks off with a lighted parade at 6 p.m. Friday along Main Street. Christmas market and Christmas Tree Forest are open all weekend. www.tex-fest.com 888/997-3600 HILL COUNTRY

1-2—GALVESTON: Dickens on The Strand The pages of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol come to life. Feast on food and drink, shop hundreds of vendors peddling handcrafted gifts, and enjoy continuous entertainment. The Strand National Historic Landmark District. www.dickensonthestrand.org 409/765-7834 or 877/772-5425 GULF COAST

1-2—GONZALES: Winterfest Tour of Historic Homes Visit at least five historic homes. Hours are 2 to 6 p.m. Historic Town of Gonzales. E-mail: info@gonzalestexas.com 830/672-6532 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-2—GRANBURY: Candlelight Tour of Homes Visit historic homes and public buildings. Granbury’s Historic District. E-mail: hgma@sbcglobal.net • www.hgma.com 817/573-5299 or 817/573-2556 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-2—GRUENE: Gruene Christmas Market Days with Cowboy Kringle Nearly 100 vendors offer Christmas gifts, uniquely crafted items and packaged Texas foods. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. www.gruenemarketdays.com 830/832-1721 HILL COUNTRY

1-2—HOUSTON: 2007 Houston Heights Holiday Home Tour & Market Home Tour features six homes, both historic and new, that reflect traditional Heights architecture. Holiday Market features local artists, crafters and merchants with fine handmade wares, gift items, Christmas decorations and one-of-a-kind accessories. Heights Fire Station. www.houstonheights.org 713/861-4002 GULF COAST

1-2—IRVING: Nutcracker Presented by Momentum Dance Company. Carpenter Performance Hall. www.irvingartscenter.com 972/252-ARTS PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-2—KERRVILLE: Texas Furniture Makers Show This is an annual statewide competition of custom furniture makers. Kerr Arts & Cultural Center, 228 Earl Garrett. www.kacckerrville.com 830/895-2911 HILL COUNTRY

1-2—LEAGUE CITY: Holiday in the Park Festival & Parade Hours are 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. League Park. www.holidayinthepark.org GULF COAST

1-2—MARBLE FALLS: Under a Cowboy Moon & The Only Virgin in Jubilee County These new works were winners of the 2007 Hill Country Playwriting Festival. Hill Country Community Theatre. www.hcct.org 830/798-8944 HILL COUNTRY

1-2—MCALLEN: Dias Festivos Marketplace: “Hunting for the Holidays” Features more than 120 merchants. Hours are noon to 6 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. McAllen Convention Center. www.juniorleaguemcallen.org 956/682-0071 SOUTH TEXAS PLAINS

1-2—MCKINNEY: 34th Annual Holiday Tour of Homes Visit private homes, decorated for the holidays, in the historic district and Chestnut Square. Enjoy living history demonstrations and holiday shopping at Dixie’s Store. www.chestnutsquare.org 972/562-8790 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-2—NEW BRAUNFELS: Weihnachtsmarkt German Christmas shopping market features unique gift items, decorations and antiques. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Wursthalle in Landa Park. www.sophienburg.com 830/629-1572 HILL COUNTRY

1-2—ODESSA: Chris Irwin Memorial Roping Ector County Coliseum Arena. 432/563-2662 BIG BEND COUNTRY

1-2—PORT ARTHUR: Quota Arts & Crafts Show Bob Bowers Civic Center. 409/962-4978 GULF COAST

1-2—SALADO: Christmas Stroll Enjoy a Christmas parade, live nativity, late night shopping and strolling carolers. Main Street. www.salado.com 254/947-5040 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-2—SAN ANGELO: Greater San Angelo Crafts Guild — Christmas Bazaar Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Wells Fargo Pavilion, 50 E. 43rd St. 325/658-9122 PANHANDLE PLAINS

1-2—SOUTH PADRE ISLAND: Beach Bonanza Basketball Tournament This is a 16-team high school tournament. SPI Convention Centre and Los Fresnos High School. 888/774-8587 GULF COAST

1-2—SOUTH PADRE ISLAND: Bicycle Beach Bash Includes a time trial (10K), criterium and road race (30 miles). Begins at 8:30 a.m. Packet pick-up is at Louie’s Backyard. www.unlimitedsportsadventures.com GULF COAST

1-2—SOUTH PADRE ISLAND: Here Comes Santa Weekend Includes the annual Parade of Lights on Friday. 800/767-2373 GULF COAST

1-2—SULPHUR SPRINGS: North East Texas Choral Society Christmas Concert Begins at 7 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday. Hopkins County Regional Civic Center. www.civiccenteronline.com 903/885-8071 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-2—SWEETWATER: Arts & Crafts Show Nolan County Coliseum Annex. www.sweetwatertexas.org 325/235-8276 PANHANDLE PLAINS

1-2—WEATHERFORD: First Monday Trade Days Enjoy shopping for unique gifts, crafts, antiques and more. 100 Santa Fe Drive.
www.weatherfordparks.com 817/598-4124 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-2—WHARTON: Living Nativity Presented by First Presbyterian Church Hours are 6 to 7:30 p.m. 1602 John Knox. www.firstpreswharton.org 979/532-3375 or 832/651-9445 GULF COAST

1-2—WORTHAM: AMA Texas Winter Series This is the single largest, richest event for amateur racers on a per round basis in Texas. Freestone County Raceway. www.freestonemx.com 903/599-1888 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-2, 6-9, 13-16—SHERMAN: Dad’s Christmas Miracle 903/892-8818 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-2, 6-8—ATHENS: A Christmas Carol Henderson County Performing Arts Building. 903/675-3908 ext. 201 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-2, 7-9—FREDERICKSBURG: Holiday Wine Trail Twenty-two hill country wineries participate. Buy a ticket for a grapevine wreath and the ability to pick up a dated ornament at each winery. www.texaswinetrail.com 866/621-9463 HILL COUNTRY

1-2, 7-9—HENDERSON: The Best Christmas Pageant Ever Henderson Civic Theatre. 903/657-2968 PINEY WOODS

1-2, 7-9—PALESTINE: It’s a Wonderful Life — Musical Version Texas Theater. www.visitpalestine.com 903/723-3014 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-2, 7-9—WAXAHACHIE: Bethlehem Revisited Re-enacts the night Christ was born. 402 N. College. www.waxahachiechamber.com 972/937-2390 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-2, 7-9, 14-16—BAYTOWN: Little Shop of Horrors Baytown Little Theater. 281/424-7617 GULF COAST

1-2, 7-9, 14-16—SAN ANTONIO: Fiesta de las Luminarias Begins at dusk. River Walk. 210/227-4262 SOUTH TEXAS PLAINS

1-2, 7-9, 14-16, 18-24, 26-29—HOUSTON: The Nutcracker Join Clara on her unforgettable journey as she travels to the Land of Snow and the Kingdom of Sweets. Wortham Theater Center. www.houstonballet.org 713/227-2787 GULF COAST

1-2, 7-9, 14-16, 21-22—GRAPEVINE: Christmas on Main Street Features carolers, holiday treats, Santa Claus, costumed characters and more. Grapevine’s Historic Main Street. www.grapevinetexasusa.com 817/410-3185 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-2, 7-9, 14-16, 21-22—GRAPEVINE: North Pole Express The Grapevine Vintage Railroad becomes the North Pole Express. Children can ride to see Santa Claus. www.grapevinetexasusa.com 817/410-3185 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-2, 7-9, 14-16, 21-23, 28-30—WAXAHACHIE: Enchanted Pines E-Z Glide Ice Skating www.waxahachiechamber.com 972/937-2390 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-2, 8-9—STONEWALL: Port & Stilton Tasting Becker Vineyards. 830/644-2681 HILL COUNTRY

1-2, 8-9—WAXAHACHIE: Candlelight Christmas Home Tour Each weekend showcases four properties. www.waxahachiechamber.com 972/937-2390 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-2, 8-9—WAXAHACHIE: Downtown Waxahachie Victorian Christmas Celebration Includes Victorian artisans selling gifts, ice-skating, photos with Santa and performances by “Cast in Bronze.” www.waxahachiechamber.com 972/937-2390 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-2, 8-9, 15-16, 22-23—HOUSTON: Holiday Market with Santa Claus Offers a holiday wonderland of shopping. Traders Village, 7979 N. Eldridge Road. www.tradersvillage.com 281/890-5500 GULF COAST

1-2, 8-9, 14-16, 21-23, 26-30—ARLINGTON: Holiday in the Park Features magical sights and sounds, special rides, music and shows. Six Flags Over Texas. www.sixflags.com 817/640-8900 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-3—INGRAM: Top Ten One exceptional artist from all mediums of art will represent one form of fine craft. Duncan-McAshan Gallery, Hill Country Arts Foundation, Hwy. 39. www.hcaf.com 830/367-5121 HILL COUNTRY

1, 4, 8—COLLEGE STATION: Holidays in the Rotunda Includes choirs, dance ensembles and kids craft projects. George Bush Presidential Library and Museum. bushlibrary.tamu.edu (no www) 979/691-4068 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1, 6-8—JEFFERSON: 25th Annual Christmas Candlelight Tour of Homes Docents dressed in Victorian attire guide visitors through four beautiful homes. Choirs and handbells sing. www.historicjeffersonfoundation.com 903/665-7064 PINEY WOODS

1, 6-8, 15—JEFFERSON: A Christmas Story Play A boy wants a Red Rider BB Gun for Christmas but is told “You’ll shoot your eye out.” Ruth Lester Playhouse. www.theexcelsiorhouse.com 903/665-2513 PINEY WOODS

1, 7-8—GONZALES: Stars in the Village an 1800s Trail of Lights Gonzales Pioneer Village Living History Center. E-mail: thevillage@gvec.net 830/672-2157 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1, 7-8—SALADO: A Christmas Carol Presents Charles Dickens’ famous Yuletide story. Begins at 7 p.m. Tablerock Festival of Salado. E-mail: tablerock1@aol.com 254/947-9205 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1, 7-8, 14-15—COLLEGE STATION: Christmas in the Park Open House Visit Santa and enjoy a hayride, live entertainment, cookies and hot chocolate. Lights are displayed throughout the month. Central Park. www.cstx.gov 979/764-3486 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1, 7-8, 14-15—LA GRANGE: Trail of Lights Enjoy a fantastic quarter-mile trail illuminated with thousands of lights. Experience the more traditionally decorated 1850s-era German home of H.L. Kreische. Reservations required. Monument Hill State Park. www.tpwd.state.tx.us 979/968-5658 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1, 7-8, 14-15, 21-22, 26, 29—GRANBURY: Granbury Live Nostalgia Concerts Professional cast performs costumed and choreographed live music productions from the golden age of rock ’n’ roll. Granbury Historic Square. www.granburylive.com 800/989-8240 or 817/573-0303 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1, 7-9, 14-15—CONROE: Miracle on 34th Street A small girl’s belief in Santa and the magic of the holiday season are at stake in a climactic courtroom decision. Crighton Theatre. www.crightonplayers.org 936/441-7469 PINEY WOODS

1, 7-9, 14-15—POST: A Christmas Story The Garza Theatre, 226 E. Main St. 806/495-4005 PANHANDLE PLAINS

1-8—EL PASO: Murders of 1940 This musical comedy offers a fast-paced farce set in a house with sliding panels, secret passageways, a maid who has nine lives and, by the way, a murderer. El Paso Playhouse, 2501 Montana. 915/532-1317 BIG BEND COUNTRY

1-8—NACOGDOCHES: Nine Flags Festival Features the largest lighted Christmas parade in East Texas, two fireworks displays, holiday tour of homes, breakfast with Santa, 5-K Jingle Bell Run and more. E-mail: info@visitnacogdoches.org 888/653-3788 PINEY WOODS

1, 8—WHARTON: Wharton County Farmer’s Market Includes locally grown vegetables and other products, music, children’s corner and cooking demonstrations. Courthouse Square. www.whartoncountyfarmersmarket.com 713/553-7882 GULF COAST

1, 8, 15—BANDERA: Cowboy Santa’s Workshop Children can make and wrap age-appropriate folk gifts for the family at a nominal fee. Frontier Times Museum. www.frontiertimesmuseum.com 830/796-3864 HILL COUNTRY

1, 8, 15—LONGVIEW: Christmas at the Courthouse Downtown Longview and the Courthouse are transformed by hundreds of lights. Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, enjoy musical entertainment and children’s arts & crafts. Hours are 6 to 9 p.m. Gregg County Courthouse, Downtown Longview. E-mail: elaine@longviewpartnership.org 903/237-4040 PINEY WOODS

1, 8, 15, 22, 29—LIBERTY: La Bahia Market Offers homegrown, handcrafted and homemade items, plus antiques and collectibles. Hours are 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. www.libertydaytonchamber.com 936/336-5736 PINEY WOODS

1, 8, 15, 22, 29—PASADENA: Armand Bayou Ranger 28-foot Pontoon Boat Experience Enjoy an informative and memorable safari filled with views of local wildlife and beautiful settings. Reservations and advance payment required. www.abnc.org 281/474-2551 GULF COAST

1-9—HOUSTON: Otabenga Jones & Associates Offers a hybrid exhibition-classroom-performance piece. The Menil Collection. www.menil.org 713/525-9400 GULF COAST

1-9—INGRAM: Sanders Family Christmas Sequel to Smoke on the Mountain. Elizabeth Huth Indoor Theater, Hwy. 39. www.hcaf.com 830/367-5121 HILL COUNTRY

1-9—WIMBERLEY: Bell, Book & Candle The heroine casts a spell over the object of her affection to keep him away from her rival. Wimberley Playhouse, 450 Old Kyle Road. www.wimberleyplayers.org 512/847-1592 HILL COUNTRY

1-10—ARLINGTON: A Christmas Carol Creative Arts Theatre & School. www.arlington.org 817/861-2287 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-14—SAN MARCOS: King of the Hill Includes episode drafts, whiteboards, “interviews” with the characters, results from the writers’ research trips, and more. Southwestern Writers Collection, Alkek Library Seventh Floor, Texas State University. www.swwc.txstate.edu 512/245-2313 HILL COUNTRY

1-15—COLLEGE STATION: Miracle on the Border Exhibit features more than 50 retables created by Mexican immigrants or their relatives. J. Wayne Stark University Center Galleries. stark.tamu.edu (no www) 979/845-6081 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1, 15—JOHNSON CITY: Lamplight Tours of Boyhood Home of President Lyndon B. Johnson National Park rangers provide an open house of this lamp-lit historic home, all decked out for a Christmas celebration in the 1920s. Boyhood Home, 200 E. Elm St. www.nps.gov/lyjo 830/868-7128 HILL COUNTRY

1-16—ARLINGTON: A Christmas Story Join Ralphie in his quest for a desired Christmas gift. Theatre Arlington. www.theatrearlington.org PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-16—AUSTIN: Dalhart Windberg Exhibit Features a collection of framed giclee canvases by a Texas master on display in the McDermott Learning Center. Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, 4801 La Crosse Ave. www.wildflower.org 512/232-0100 HILL COUNTRY

1-16—DALLAS: A Little House Christmas Presents a heartwarming adventure for Laura Ingals Wilder fans. El Centro College Theater. www.elcentrocollege.edu 214/860-2345 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-16—DALLAS: Our Lady of 121st Street Old friends gather at Harlem’s Ortiz Funeral Home to mourn the death of a beloved nun from their childhood. For mature audiences. Kitchen Dog Theater. 214/953-1055 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-16—DICKINSON: A Christmas Carol Harbour Playhouse. www.harbourplayhouse.com 281/337-7468 GULF COAST

1-16—FORT WORTH: The Nutcracker In Clara’s Christmas Eve dream, her nutcracker doll transports her to a world of battling mice, dancing snowflakes, waltzing flowers and the Sugar Plum Fairy. Bass Performance Hall. www.texasballettheater.org 877/828-9200 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-16—INGRAM: A Christmas Carol Elizabeth Huth Coates Indoor Theater. www.hcaf.com 830/367-5121 HILL COUNTRY

1-16—SAN ANTONIO: Ford Holiday Boat Caroling Hours are 6:15 to 9:15 p.m. River Walk. 210/227-4262 SOUTH TEXAS PLAINS

1-17—ENNIS: My Favorite Christmas by Bill Rhoten Family Christmas story that explores the real meaning of the season. 2705 N. Kaufman St. www.visitennis.org 972/878-4748 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-19—LAMPASAS: Nutcrackers on Parade: The Annual Christmas Tree & Gingerbread House Contests & Exhibition Keystone Square Museum, 303 S. Western St. 512/556-2224 HILL COUNTRY

1-21—AUSTIN: La Labor: The Paintings of Roel Flores Flores, self-taught artist and former migrant worker, uses paint to express his love for the land and the pleasures that made the labor bearable. Texas Folklife Gallery. www.texasfolklife.org 512/441-9255 HILL COUNTRY

1-22—AUSTIN: The Ultimate Christmas Musical: The Musical! Offers a story about hope, love, togetherness and the undeniable, supremely fantastic Spirit of Christmas. The New Salvage Vanguard Theater, 2308 Manor Road. www.yellowtape.org HILL COUNTRY

1-22—DALLAS: The Snow Queen Undermain Theatre, 3200 Main St. www.undermaintheatre.org PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-22—DALLAS: Dear Santa Bring letters to Santa Claus in the museum and drop them in the mail slot of the post office car, where elves will sort them and send them on their way. Museum of the American Railroad. www.dallasrailwaymuseum.com 214/428-0101 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-22—JEFFERSON: The Big Toy Melodrama & Dinner Theatre Tim and Toby Toy, proprietors of Toy’s Toy Shoppe, along with widow Ima Sweet and her two children are the only hope for defeating a villainous plot to destroy all non-coffin related businesses. Bull Durham Playhouse, 124 E. Austin. www.bulldurhamplayhouse.com 903/665-6481 PINEY WOODS

1-22—LONGVIEW: Antique Toy & Model Train Exhibit Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Gregg County Historical Museum. www.gregghistorical.org 903/753-5840 PINEY WOODS

1-22—NEW BOSTON: Christmas Tree Wonderland Take a walk through Christmas tree lane and visit with Santa Claus. Trail Head Park, Downtown. www.newbostontx.org 903/628-2581 PINEY WOODS

1-22—SALADO: Let It Snow, Christmas Show, Radio Festive holiday variety show is performed in the style of a live radio broadcast. Silver Spur Theatre. www.saladosilverspur.com 254/947-3456 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-23—DALLAS: The Nutcracker Two unique styles of puppetry combine with amazing pyrotechnics and incredible spectacle to invent a dazzling new world for Clara and the Nutcracker Prince. Dallas Children’s Theater — Rosewood Center for Family Arts. www.dct.org 214/978-0110 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-23—EL PASO: The Littlest Angel Kids-N-Co. Performance Center, 1301 Texas. 915/351-1455 BIG BEND COUNTRY

1-24—SPRING: Home for the Holidays Celebrate the season with more than 150 shops decorated with thousands of twinkling Christmas lights. Enjoy choirs, strolling entertainers, Christmas train and photos with Santa. www.shopspringtexas.com 281/288-2355 GULF COAST

1-25—ODESSA: Starbright Village Drive or walk through a winter wonderland of lights from 6 to 10 p.m. McKinney Park, 625 W. Pool Road. 432/335-4682 BIG BEND COUNTRY

1-29—DENISON: Holiday Tour of Lights Drive through and view the holiday lighting display. Loy Lake Park. www.denisontexas.us 903/465-1551 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-29—SAN ANGELO: Santa’s Santa Fe Christmas Enjoy beautifully decorated trees with model trains of every size running on different layouts. Includes a Christmas story for children on Friday and Saturday and Santa every night. 325/944-9146 PANHANDLE PLAINS

1-30—ALBANY: Cynthia Brants: Beyond the Circle Exhibits paintings by an artist of the Fort Worth Circle. The Old Jail Art Center. www.theoldjailartcenter.org 325/762-2269 PANHANDLE PLAINS

1-30—AUSTIN: Rehearsing the American Dream: Arthur Miller’s Critical Theater This Arthur Miller exhibition uses his plays Death of a Salesman and The Crucible to explore conscience in theatrical expression. Harry Ransom Humanities Research Center. www.hrc.utexas.edu 512/471-8944 HILL COUNTRY

1-30—CORPUS CHRISTI: Billy Hassell North Texas artist pairs realistically painted subjects with bold, sometimes disparate, backgrounds to explore contradictions found in nature. Art Museum of South Texas. www.stia.org 361/825-3500 GULF COAST

1-30—DALLAS: Babes in Toyland The evil Barnaby, who doesn’t believe in toys, has plans to shut the factory down, but Toyland comes to the rescue. Slappy’s Puppet Playhouse. 214/369-4849 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-30—ODESSA: The Art of Fashion: What Women Wore, 1760-1960 Enjoy a collection of vintage wear with period styles and accessories. Ellen Noel Art Museum. 432/550-9696 BIG BEND COUNTRY

1-31—AUSTIN: Revolution to Renaissance: Mexican Art from the Aaron Collection Exhibit highlights works created between the 1890s and 1950s that were difficult to find and acquire, and it documents the history of Mexican art. Mexic-Arte Museum. www.mexic-artemuseum.org 512/480-9373 HILL COUNTRY

1-31—BANDERA: Christmas Past David and Mona Rollison have found several Victorian Christmas scene display panels and lovingly restored them. They have loaned the display to the Frontier Times Museum. 830/796-3864 HILL COUNTRY

1-31—BASTROP: River of Lights Enjoy holiday lights, music and refreshments while strolling along the riverwalk from Fisherman’s Park to Ferry Park. www.bastropchamber.com 512/303-0558 or 512/321-2419 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-31—BIG SPRING: Display of Santas Heritage Museum. www.bigspringmuseum.com 432/267-8255 PANHANDLE PLAINS

1-31—CANYON: History of Broadcasting Traces the role and history of broadcasting in the Texas Panhandle. Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum. www.panhandleplains.org 806/651-2244 PANHANDLE PLAINS

1-31—CHILDRESS: Lighting of Fair Park Holiday displays and lights create a wonderland for the holiday season. www.childresstexas.net 940/937-2567 PANHANDLE PLAINS

1-31—CLEBURNE: Whistle Stop Christmas Light Display See the more than 3 million lights. Hulen Park. www.whistlestopchristmas.org 817/645-2455 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-31—COLUMBUS: Christmas on the Colorado www.columbustexas.org 979/732-8385 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-31—DALLAS: Immortal Images: Chinese Jades from the Permanent Collection of Trammell & Margaret Crow The Trammell & Margaret Crow Collection of Asian Art. 214/979-6430 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-31—DICKINSON: Festival of Lights Experience the magic of the season while strolling through an enchanting display of more than 1 million holiday lights. On Dec. 1, enjoy Blizzard on the Bayou. Visit Santa, ride the train and listen to music. Hours are 6 to 9:30 p.m. Paul Hopkins Park. www.dickinsonfestivaloflights.org 281/337-2795 GULF COAST

1-31—ELGIN: Lights of the Blackland Tour Elgin and surrounding towns to see holiday lights, and enjoy holiday shopping and unique restaurants. www.elgintxchamber.com 512/285-4515 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-31—GRAND PRAIRIE: Prairie Lights Features lighted holiday displays and the “World’s Largest Tunnel of Lights.” Lynn Creek Park. www.gptx.org 972/237-8100 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-31—GRAPEVINE: Ice! at the Gaylord Texan Resort & Conference Center Lake Grapevine. www.grapevinetexasusa.com 817/410-3185 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-31—IRVING: Laissez les Bon Temps Roulez (Let the Good Times Roll): A Cajun Christmas! Annual holiday exhibition and tree-decorating competition. Theme celebrates the rich and colorful Cajun culture and holiday traditions of Louisiana. Irving Arts Center Main Gallery. www.irvingartscenter.com PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-31—LA PORTE: Yuletide Texas See the ship adorned with lights, ornaments and decorations in the spirit of the season just the way the crew members did while serving aboard the historic Navy vessel. Battleship Texas State Historic Site. www.tpwd.state.tx.us 281/479-2431 GULF COAST

1-31—MARSHALL: Wonderland of Lights Features a parade, home tours, bus tours, carriage rides, outdoor ice skating, live entertainment, visits with Santa and historic church tours. Downtown Marshall. www.marshalltxchamber.com 903/935-7868 PINEY WOODS

1-31—MIDLAND: Christmas at the Mansion The historic Turner Museum, decorated extensively for Christmas, offers a gift shop, luncheons, teas, visits with Santa and the Southwest Express model train. Museum of the Southwest. www.museumsw.org 432/683-2882 BIG BEND COUNTRY

1-31—NEW BRAUNFELS: My Favorite Things Art Show League members show their favorite works of art during this holiday show. NB Art League Gallery. www.newbraunfelsartleague.com 830/629-8022 HILL COUNTRY

1-31—ODESSA: White-Pool House Old-Fashioned Christmas Take a stroll into Christmas Past in the years of 1880 – 1930. 112 E. Murphy St. 432/333-4072 BIG BEND COUNTRY

1-31—PAMPA: Annual Celebration of Lights 806/669-3241 PANHANDLE PLAINS

1-31—YORKTOWN: Majestic Lights Over Coleto Creek Santa Claus comes to town, and downtown and the city park are lit up. www.yorktowntx.com 361/564-2661 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-Jan. 1—ATHENS: Christmas Park Land of Lights NW Loop 7. 903/675-7469 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-Jan. 1—CUERO: Christmas in the Park 361/275-8178 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-Jan. 1—DALLAS: The Trains at NorthPark Enjoy this holiday tradition of seeing the most elaborate toy train exhibit in Texas with vintage locomotives whizzing on a journey across America by miniature landmarks. NorthPark Center. www.rmhdallas.com/trains 214/631-7354 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-Jan. 1—EL PASO: Season of Lights The 220,000-plus lights stay lit each night through Jan. 1. University of Texas at El Paso Campus. 915/747-8600 BIG BEND COUNTRY

1-Jan. 1—FREDERICKSBURG: Texas Hill Country Regional Christmas Lighting Trail The communities of Boerne, Burnet, Dripping Springs, Fredericksburg, Goldthwaite, Johnson City, Llano, Marble Falls, New Braunfels, Round Mountain and Wimberley light up the Texas night skies. www.tex-fest.com 866/839-3378 HILL COUNTRY

1-Jan. 1—FRISCO: Christmas in the Square Extraordinary light show is synchronized to holiday music. Includes outdoor movies, train and carriage rides, and more on weekends. Frisco Square. www.friscosquare.com 972/292-5000 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-Jan. 1—JOHNSON CITY: Lights Spectacular Includes more than 100,000 lights on the courthouse, parade, 12 days of Christmas and more. Johnson City Courthouse. www.lbjcountry.com 830/868-7684 or 830/868-7111 HILL COUNTRY

1-Jan. 1—MARBLE FALLS: Walkway of Lights More than 1 million lights transform Lakeside Park into a holiday wonderland. Hours are 6 to 10 p.m. See Santa on the weekends. www.marblefalls.org 800/759-8178 HILL COUNTRY

1-Jan. 1—WIMBERLEY: EmilyAnn Tree Lighting & Trail of Lights Offers a holiday fantasy with more than 100 lighted displays. Enjoy nightly entertainment around Ye Olde Yule Log. The Emily Ann Theatre. www.emilyann.org 512/847-6969 HILL COUNTRY

1-Jan. 2—TAYLOR: Lights of the Blackland Tour spectacular holiday lighting displays in Bartlett, Bastrop, Elgin, Coupland, Granger, Hutto, Taylor, Thorndale and Thrall. www.abouttaylortx.org 512/352-6364 HILL COUNTRY

1-Jan. 3—MOULTON: Drive-Thru Yule Trail North and South Main Street. www.moultontexas.com 361/596-7205 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-Jan. 4—TYLER: Santa Land Experience the sights and sounds of Christmas with more than 2 1/2 million lights. Take a ride on Santa’s trailer or remain in the warmth of your vehicle. I-20, exit 557. www.santalandtexas.com 903/882-1518 PINEY WOODS

1-Jan. 4—WACO: International Christmas Tree Exhibit Trees represent cultures around the world. Mayborn Museum Complex. www.maybornmuseum.com 254/710-1110 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-Jan. 5—GALVESTON: Moody Gardens Festival of Lights In addition to seeing the lights and displays, strap on a pair of skates and glide across the Outdoor Ice Rink, take pictures with Santa or see the giant poinsettia tree. Moody Gardens. www.moodygardens.org 800/582-4673 or 409/744-4673 GULF COAST

1-Jan. 6—AUSTIN: In Citizen’s Garb: Southern Plains Native Americans 1885–1891 Exhibit explores how dress — and life — changed for the Kiowa and Comanche tribes as they gradually adjusted to the new life forced upon them by the U.S. government. The Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. www.thestoryoftexas.com 512/936-8746 HILL COUNTRY

1-Jan. 6—COLUMBUS: Membership Exhibit Live Oak Art Center members show new works. Includes art for holiday gift giving. Live Oak Art Center, 1014 Milam St. www.columbustexas.org 979/732-8385 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-Jan. 6—DALLAS: 5,000 Years of Chinese Ceramics: The R. Randolph Richmond Collection Collection is from the New Orleans Museum of Art. The Crow Collection of Asian Art. www.crowcollection.org 214/979-6438 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-Jan. 6—DALLAS: The Amazing Chocolate Tree Exhibit takes visitors inside the world of chocolate, from its roots as part of the cacao plant to a candy factory, and explains how chocolate comes to the consumer. Dallas Arboretum. www.dallasarboretum.org 214/515-6500 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-Jan. 6—FORT WORTH: Declaring Space Focuses on the work of four artists whose works had a dramatic impact on the complex development of abstract space and color in the years following World War II. Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth. www.mamfw.org 817/738-9215 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-Jan. 6—KERRVILLE: The Magic of Color & Clay Features the pottery of Roger Daniel and artwork by Norma Daniel and Donna Stroud. Kerr Arts & Cultural Center www.kacckerrville.com 830/895-2911 HILL COUNTRY

1-Jan. 6—ROUND TOP: Small Treasures Exhibition Includes art and handmade items for holiday gift giving. The Gallery at Round Top. www.thegalleryatroundtop.com 979/249-4119 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-Jan. 6—SAN ANTONIO: Artmatters 12: Jane Hammond Hammond’s works draw from a variety of found sources such as biology, mathematics, popular culture and children’s stories. McNay Art Museum. www.mcnayart.org 210/824-5368 SOUTH TEXAS PLAINS

1-Jan. 6—SAN ANTONIO: Mexico & Modern Printmaking: A Revolution in the Graphic Arts, 1920 to 1950 Exhibit examines the vital contributions made by Mexican artists as printmakers in 125 prints and posters by 50 Mexican and foreign-born artists. McNay Art Museum. www.mcnayart.org 210/824-5368 SOUTH TEXAS PLAINS

1-Jan. 6—SAN ANTONIO: Shakespeare’s Haunted Stage Presents more than 100 scene and costume designs of otherworldly creatures and occurrences central to the plots of four Shakespeare plays. McNay Art Museum. www.mcnayart.org 210/824-5368 SOUTH TEXAS PLAINS

1-Jan. 6—TYLER: Past/Present/Future: Folk Art of Mexico Selected works from the Laura & Dan Boeckman Collection of Mexican & Latin American Folk Art. Tyler Museum of Art. www.tylermuseum.org 903/595-1001 PINEY WOODS

1-Jan. 7—CORPUS CHRISTI: Cardinal Points/Puntos Cardinales: A Survey of Contemporary Latino & Latin American Art Exhibition uses visual art to look at contemporary life, values and beliefs as seen through the eyes and minds of Latin American artists. Art Museum of South Texas. www.stia.org 361/825-3500 GULF COAST

1-Jan. 13—AUSTIN: It’s a Nano World Visitors are introduced to really small things and the tools scientists use to see them. Austin Children’s Museum. www.austinkids.org 512/472-2499 HILL COUNTRY

1-Jan. 13—HOUSTON: A Rose Has No Teeth: Bruce Nauman in the 1960s Exhibition presents the full range of the artist’s work from this period, including sculpture, ephemera, documentation of performances, artist books and video. The Menil Collection. www.menil.org 713/525-9400 GULF COAST

1-Jan. 13—SAN ANTONIO: Over, Under, Around & Through Exhibits works by U.S. artists Linda Hutchins, Tray Krumm and Piper Shephard. Russell Hill Rogers Galleries, Southwest School of Art & Craft. www.swschool.org 210/224-1848 SOUTH TEXAS PLAINS

1-Jan. 13—SAN ANTONIO: Pocahontas Meets Hello Kitty: Artists Looking at the Past & Present of Native Women’s History Southwest School of Art & Craft, 300 Augusta. www.swschool.org 210/224-1848 SOUTH TEXAS PLAINS

1-Jan. 20—TYLER: Curator’s Choice: Selections from the Permanent Collection Includes popular selections from the museum’s 700-plus piece permanent collection, which is noted for its strong emphasis on early to contemporary Texas art and artists. Tyler Museum of Art. 903/595-1001 PINEY WOODS

1-Jan. 27—DALLAS: Domains of Wonder: Selected Masterworks of Indian Painting Provides a complete overview of Indian court painting with examples representing each school. Dallas Museum of Art. www.dallasmuseumofart.org 214/922-1200 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-Jan. 27—DALLAS: When Gold Blossoms: Indian Jewelry from the Susan L. Beningson Collection Centers on jewelry from South India, where goldsmith work has a long history. There are 154 pieces of jewelry in the exhibition. Dallas Museum of Art. www.dallasmuseumofart.org 214/922-1200 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-Jan. 27—EL PASO: A Gift of Love: The McKnight Collection of Retablos Contains Mexican altarpieces from the first half of the 16th century through the 19th century. El Paso Museum of Art. 915/532-1707 BIG BEND COUNTRY

1-Jan. 27—IRVING: Michael Bane & Sue McCans: Paintings McCans’ paintings are a series of geometric abstractions while Bane’s works are representational with subject matter that includes horses and still-lifes. Irving Arts Center Carpenter Performance Hall Lobby.www.irvingartscenter.com 972/252-7558 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-Jan. 28—KERRVILLE: The Art of Tom Lovell Exhibit tells the remarkable story of six Indian nations that served the military during that war. Museum of Western Art. www.museumofwesternart.org 830/896-2553 HILL COUNTRY

1-Jan. 31—EL PASO: Feelings & Expression Showcases the Creative Kids programs. Exhibits photography, digital media, sculpture and painting on canvas. 504 San Francisco St. — Union Plaza District. 915/533-9575 BIG BEND COUNTRY

1-Feb. 3—MCKINNEY: Dinosaurs Alive! Come see the second annual exhibit of life-size animatronic dinosaurs placed throughout the hiking trails. The Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary. www.heardmuseum.org 972/562-5566 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-Feb. 17—CANYON: Urban Texas: Changing Images of an Evolving State Features works by Texas artists who have explored the rise and decline of towns and cities across the state on paper, panel and canvas. Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum. www.panhandleplains.org 806/651-2244 PANHANDLE PLAINS

1-Feb. 17—DALLAS: Indian Miniature Paintings form the David T. Owsley Collection This is a companion exhibition of 50 paintings on loan from a major benefactor of the Dallas Museum of Art. www.dallasmuseumofart.org 214/922-1200 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-Feb. 17—HOUSTON: Contemporary Conversations: Robert Ryman, 1976 Gathers works from the Addison Gallery of American Art, New York’s The Museum of Modern Art and the artist’s own collection, presenting them with Midland II, a painting purchased by Dominique de Menil in 1980. The Menil Collection. www.menil.org 713/525-9400 GULF COAST

1-Feb. 17—WACO: Bones: An Exhibit Inside You Explores the fundamentals of bone biology, ways to keep bones healthy and how bones are important in cultures around the world. Mayborn Museum Complex. www.maybornmuseum.com 254/710-1110 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-Feb. 24—DALLAS: Coming of Age: American Art, 1850s to 1950s It includes 72 paintings and sculptures drawn from the internationally renowned collection of the Addison Gallery of American Art at Phillips Academy in Andover, Mass. Meadows Museum. www.meadowsmuseumdallas.org 214/768-2516 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-Feb. 29—SAN ANTONIO: Dora & Diego’s Garden Adventure Join Dora the Explorer and her animal rescuer cousin Diego Marquez as they embark on an exciting adventure through the Botanical Garden. Interactive activities transform the garden into a classroom and playground. San Antonio Botanical Garden. www.sabot.org 210/829-5100 SOUTH TEXAS PLAINS

1-Mar. 1—DALLAS: Pullman Porter Exhibit Highlights the stories of Pullman porters and their influence upon the African-American middle class. Museum of the American Railroad. www.dallasrailwaymuseum.com 214/428-0101 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-Mar. 16—CANYON: Suitably Dressed Exhibit illustrates the timeless design of 20th-century men’s and women’s suits. Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum. www.panhandleplains.org 806/651-2244 PANHANDLE PLAINS

1-Mar. 23—CANYON: Furnishing Amarillo Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum. E-mail: museum@pphm.wtamu.edu • www.panhandleplains.org 806/651-2244 PANHANDLE PLAINS

1-Mar. 23—DALLAS: Phil Collins, The World Won’t Listen The Dallas Museum of Art presents the world premiere of British artist Phil Collins’ international three-part video project. www.dallasmuseumofart.org 214/922-1200 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-Mar. 30—FORT WORTH: Picturing the Bible: The Earliest Christian Art Drawing on new historical research and the latest archaeological discoveries, this exhibition tells the story of how the earliest Christians first gave visual expression to their religious beliefs in works of art. Kimbell Art Museum. www.kimbellart.org 817/332-8451 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-Mar. 30—LUBBOCK: Exhibition: The Pastel Range: Frank Reaugh, Ranch Historian Reaugh’s pastels document stirring and defining moment in the history of ranching. National Ranching Heritage Center. www.nrhc.com 806/742-0498 PANHANDLE PLAINS

1-Mar. 30—SAN MARCOS: Lonesome Dove: Photographs by Bill Wittliff These sepia-toned, silver-gelatin photographs reveal the epic story as seen through an artist’s eye. The Wittliff Gallery of Southwestern & Mexican Photography, Alkek Library Seventh Floor, Texas State University. www.wg.txstate.edu 512/245-2313 HILL COUNTRY

1-Mar. 30—WACO: Steve McCurry: South Southeast: A Collection of Photographs Art Center Waco. www.artcenterwaco.org 254/752-4371 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-Apr. 13—CANYON: Sense of Self Investigates how individuals define and interpret their world through art, music, clothing and tangible symbols and transmit these to the next generation. Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum. www.panhandleplains.org 806/651-2244 PANHANDLE PLAINS

1-Apr. 27—DALLAS: Rubin Museum of Art The Crow Collection of Asian Art. www.crowcollection.org 214/979-6438 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

1-May 26—AUSTIN: Bills, Bills, Bills: Lyndon Johnson as Senate Majority Leader Exhibit covers LBJ’s senate career from his election in 1948 to his election to the vice-presidency in 1961. Lyndon Baines Johnson Library & Museum. www.lbjlib.utexas.edu 512/721-0200 HILL COUNTRY

2—ABILENE: 13th Annual Richard Burke Christmas Concert Begins at 2 p.m. Paramount Theatre. 325/677-4673 PANHANDLE PLAINS

2—ABILENE: McMurry University Band Concert Abilene Civic Center. 325/793-3837 PANHANDLE PLAINS

2—ANGLETON: Ninth Annual Tour of Homes This is a self-guided tour of local homes decorated for the holidays. www.angletonchamber.org 979/849-6443 GULF COAST

2—CHILDRESS: Tour of Homes Visit homes in the area decorated for the holiday season. E-mail: stepholli@yahoo.com 940/937-9010 PANHANDLE PLAINS

2—COLLEYVILLE: Colleyville Woman’s Club Holiday Home Tour Visit five exquisite homes in the Colleyville area. www.c-w-c.org 817/416-3000 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

2—DALLAS: Handel’s Messiah (Original Version for Dublin, Ireland) Begins at 7 p.m. Meyerson Symphony Center. www.dallasbach.org 214/320-8700 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

2—GREENVILLE: ALTRUSA Tour of Homes 5400 Business Hwy. 69 S. E-mail: rhayden@allstate.com 903/450-4454 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

2—HOUSTON: Buffalo Bayou Kayak Trips Enjoy a kayak adventure through Houston’s stunning urban wilderness. Reservations required by noon Friday prior to the tour. www.buffalobayou.org 713/752-0314 GULF COAST

2—KERRVILLE: Symphony of the Hills Kathleen C. Cailloux Theater. www.schreiner.edu/symphony 830/792-7469 HILL COUNTRY

2—MINEOLA: Lake Country Orchestra Christmas Concert “Yuletide” 903/569-2300 PINEY WOODS

2—NACOGDOCHES: Stephen F. Austin State University Wind Symphony & Symphonic Band Begins at 2:30 p.m. W.M. Turner Auditorium. www.nineflagsfestival.com 888/240-ARTS PINEY WOODS

2—WEIMAR: Christmas Homes Tour Visit four homes, plus the museum. Heritage Society Museum. 979/263-5554 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

2, 5, 8—DALLAS: The Merry Widow Operetta tells the story about a temperamental widow of an outrageously wealthy man in search of a new husband. Music Hall at Fair Park. 214/565-1116 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

2, 6, 9, 11, 13, 16, 18—GRAPEVINE: The Best Time of the Year Musical Begins at 8 p.m. Palace Theatre. www.grapevinetexasusa.com 817/410-3185 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

2, 9, 16, 23, 30—FORT WORTH: Cowboy Concerts Exchange Building, Historic Fort Worth Stockyards. www.cowtownopry.org 817/838-5882 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

2-31—AUSTIN: Zilker Park Trail of Lights Begins with the tree lighting on Dec. 2. The pedestrian Trail of Lights, featuring live music and Santa visits, transforms a mile-long stretch of the park into a wonderland of lights. Zilker Park. www.ci.austin.tx.us/tol 512/974-6700 HILL COUNTRY

2-31—FARMERS BRANCH: Tour of Lights Begins at I-35 and Valley View Lane. Drive through an amazing and joyful display of lights and figures with more than 300,000 shimmering lights. 972/919-2620 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

2-Feb. 24—EL PASO: Marsden Hartley: American Modern Retrospective presents superb examples of Hartley’s paintings and works on paper from every phase of his artistic development. El Paso Museum of Art. 915/532-1707 BIG BEND COUNTRY

3—ABILENE: Abilene Community Band Christmas Concert Begins at 7:30 p.m. Paramount Theatre. 325/437-8009 PANHANDLE PLAINS

3—BROWNSVILLE: Christmas Parade www.charrodays.org 956/542-4245 GULF COAST

3—FORT WORTH: Bass Hall Presents Hal Holbrook in Mark Twain Tonight Mark Twain, portrayed by Holbrook, expounds enlightened philosophies, wry anecdotes and keen observations. Bass Performance Hall. www.basshall.com 817/212-4325 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

3—GIDDINGS: Country Music Monday Begins at 7:30 p.m. Sons of Hermann Hall. 979/542-3455 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

3—HONDO: Medina Community Hospital Auxiliary Lights of Love Enjoy a Christmas tree-lighting ceremony. 3100 Ave. E. www.medinahospital.net 830/426-7700 HILL COUNTRY

3—MIDLOTHIAN: Holiday Light Up Parade Offers a night parade with lights on all floats. George Hopper Road. www.midlothianchamber.org 972/723-8600 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

3—MONAHANS: Lighted Christmas Parade Begins at dark and ends at the Million Barrel Museum with Santa, hot chocolate and cookies. www.monahans.org 432/943-2187 BIG BEND COUNTRY

3—NACOGDOCHES: Getting It Right Bull Riding Gates open at 6:30 p.m. Nacogdoches Expo Center. www.nineflagsfestival.com 888/653-3788 PINEY WOODS

3—ODESSA: Community Christmas Tree-Lighting Ceremony Includes entertainment, refreshments and the tree lighting. Begins at 6 p.m. 42nd Street and Grandview. 432/332-8244 BIG BEND COUNTRY

3—TEXARKANA: Twice as Bright Festival of Lights The annual Christmas parade is followed by a community tree lighting ceremony at the Post Office. Includes carriage rides and Santa Claus. View the Ace of Clubs House and the downtown Christmas light display. The lighting display continues through Jan. 2. Downtown Texarkana. www.mainstreettexarkana.org 870/774-2120 PINEY WOODS

3-Jan. 4—MESQUITE: Exhibit by Jenice Johnson This is an exhibit of black-and-white photography by a local newspaper editor. Mesquite Arts Center. E-mail: mtemplet@ci.mesquite.tx.us 972/216-6444 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

4—ABILENE: Franklin Middle School Band Christmas Concert Begins at 7 p.m. Paramount Theatre. 325/677-3791 PANHANDLE PLAINS

4—AUSTIN: Austin Symphony Presents Handel’s Messiah The symphony teams up with Chorus Austin to present this immortal masterpiece. Riverbend Centre. www.austinsymphony.org 512/476-6064 HILL COUNTRY

4—EL PASO: UTEP Choirs & Wind Symphony Holiday Spectacular The combined groups present holiday music in a variety of styles. Fox Fine Arts Center at the University of Texas at El Paso. 915/747-5606 BIG BEND COUNTRY

4—FORT WORTH: Handel’s Messiah Performed by the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra and Southwestern Seminary Oratorio Chorus at 7:30 p.m. Bass Performance Hall. www.fwsymphony.org 817/665-6000 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

4—GLADEWATER: Christmas Parade Begins at 6 p.m. Community Christmas dinner afterward. Downtown. E-mail: gladewatercoc@suddenlinkmail.com 800/627-0315 PINEY WOODS

4—IRVING: Irving ISD Orchestras Presented by New Philharmonic Orchestra of Irving. Carpenter Performance Hall. www.irvingartscenter.com 972/252-ARTS PRAIRIES AND LAKES

4—NACOGDOCHES: Stephen F. Austin State University Percussion in the Pines Begins at 7:30 p.m. Cole Concert Hall. www.nineflagsfestival.com 888/240-ARTS PINEY WOODS

4-5—DALLAS: Michael W. Smith Ring in the holidays with Smith and the Dallas Symphony Orchestra. Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center. www.dallassymphony.com 214/692-0203 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

4-6—ORANGE: Santa & Christmas Open House Includes Santa, Christmas carols, Christmas music and more. Heritage House. 409/886-5385 GULF COAST

4-7—CLUTE: Christmas in the Park Visit Santa and view trees created by area organizations. Clute Municipal Park. 979/265-8392 GULF COAST

5—LA MARQUE: Christmas Parade E-mail: marissa@texascitychamber.com • www.texascitychamber.com 409/935-1408 GULF COAST

5—VICTORIA: Christmas at the Carillon Offers a unique program each year that is, in equal parts, sacred and secular holiday music, art music, popular music, concert hall performance and community sing. United Methodist Church. www.conspirare.org 512/476-5775 GULF COAST

5, 12—GRAPEVINE: Nightmare Before Christmas Murder Mystery Theatre Gaylord Texan Resort & Conference Center on Lake Grapevine. www.grapevinetexasusa.com 817/410-3185 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

6—BELTON: 11th Annual Christmas on the Chisholm Trail Includes vendors lining the sidewalks, choral groups and strolling carolers. Music fills the air while awaiting Santa’s arrival. Downtown Belton. www.beltonchamber.com 254/939-3551 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

6—COLEMAN: Annual Lighted Christmas Parade Features beautiful floats with as many lights as possible. Santa makes his entrance in an antique fire truck then hears what children want for Christmas. Downtown Coleman. www.colemantexas.org 325/625-2163 PANHANDLE PLAINS

6—COMMERCE: Christmas Parade Leaves City Park, goes north on Park Street, west on Main Street and south on Washington Street. Begins at 7 p.m. Downtown Commerce. www.commerce-chamber.com 903/886-3950 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

6—DALLAS: Candlelight Senior Day Senior citizens can tour decorated historical homes and chat about holiday traditions with some of the historical costumed characters. Dallas Heritage Village at Old City Park. 214/413-3675 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

6—DENISON: Annual Christmas Parade Features floats, marching groups, walking groups, equestrian groups and Santa Claus. Main Street, Downtown. www.denisontexas.us 903/465-1551 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

6—EL CAMPO: Christmas Parade Begins at 7 p.m. Downtown. 979/543-2713 GULF COAST

6—EL PASO: Handel’s Messiah Presented by El Paso Chorale and Juarez Symphony Orchestra. Abraham Chavez Theatre. 915/544-8444 or 915/833-0263 BIG BEND COUNTRY

6—EL PASO: University Symphony Orchestra Fox Fine Arts Center at the University of Texas at El Paso. 915/747-5606 BIG BEND COUNTRY

6—FREEPORT: Holiday on the Brazos Freeport Municipal Park. 979/233-6061 GULF COAST

6—GIDDINGS: Santa on the Square Begins at 6 p.m. Lee County Courthouse. 979/542-3455 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

6—HARLINGEN: Arroyo Holiday Lighting Features performances by local groups with a selection of holiday music and a special appearance by Santa Claus. Begins at 6:30 p.m. McKelvey Park. 956/423-5440 GULF COAST

6—HARLINGEN: Let Heaven & Nature Sing Christmas Concert Begins at 8 p.m. Harlingen Municipal Auditorium, 1204 Fair Park Blvd.
E-mail: tsoule@harlingen.com GULF COAST

6—HOUSTON: Nights on Blue Bayou: City Soundscapes Offers an environmental light and sound installation. Begins at 7 p.m. www.buffalobayou.org 713/752-0314 ext. 3 GULF COAST

6—NAVASOTA: Christmas Parade & Christmas Tree Lighting Lighted parade begins at 6 p.m. 936/825-6600 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

6—ORANGE: Toy Coffee A toy is required to tour this home decorated for Christmas. Hours are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 2460 W. Norman Circle. 409/988-4527 GULF COAST

6—SAN ANGELO: San Angelo West Rotary Barn Raising 325/481-2646 PANHANDLE PLAINS

6—SHINER: Santa in the Park Includes Santa, music, snacks and Hermann Sons Dancers. Welhausen Park. www.shinertx.com 361/594-4180 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

6—STANTON: Lighted Christmas Parade Enjoy delicious hot chocolate and hot dogs. Bring the kids out to see Santa. Downtown streets. E-mail: martincountychamber@msn.com 432/756-3386 PANHANDLE PLAINS

6—SWEETWATER: Trail of Lights Christmas Parade Downtown Sweetwater, Broadway. www.sweetwatertexas.org 325/235-5488 PANHANDLE PLAINS

6—TEXAS CITY: Christmas Parade www.texas-city-tx.org 409/643-5990 GULF COAST

6—VERNON: Central School Christmas Program 940/553-1859 PANHANDLE PLAINS

6—WEATHERFORD: Tour of Champions Take an exciting behind-the-scene tour of Parker County’s Cutting Horse Ranches. www.visitweatherford.com 888/594-3801 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

6—WHARTON: Wharton County Junior College — Candlelight Holy Days Concert The WCJC concert choir, chamber singers, combined handbell choirs from Wharton First United Methodist Church and First Baptist Church, and other choirs join together to present seasonal favorites. First Baptist Church, 507 N. Fulton. 979/632-6300 or 979/532-4295 GULF COAST

6-8—KILGORE: Forest Home Baptist Church Nativity Drive-Thru Scenes use volunteers and live animals to depict the birth of Christ. Danville Road. 903/984-2117 PINEY WOODS

6-8—MESQUITE: Christmas in the Park Offers something for all ages from Santa’s Workshop and photos with Santa to great entertainment. Hours are 6 to 9 p.m. Westlake Park, 601 Gross Road. E-mail: omartine@ci.mesquite.tx.us 972/216-6260 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

6-8—SAN MARCOS: Sights & Sounds of Christmas Enjoy entertainment, crafts and a Bethlehem scene with a live nativity. Begins at 6 p.m. San Marcos Plaza. www.sights-n-sounds.org 512/393-8400 or 888/200-5620 HILL COUNTRY

6-8—VERNON: Vernon High School Basketball Tournament 940/552-2511 PANHANDLE PLAINS

6-8, 13-15—CANYON LAKE: 11th Annual North Pole Village Children can play with animals, get faces painted, go fishing, see a live nativity, take a hayride, visit Santa Claus and more from 6 to 9 p.m. CRRC Recreation Center. www.crrcofcanyonlake.org 830/964-2324 HILL COUNTRY

6-9, 13-16, 20-23—JEFFERSON: Rail of Lights Passengers will be awed by the lights as the story of Christmas Across America unfolds along the Big Cypress Bayou. 400 E. Jefferson St. www.jeffersonrailway.com 866/398-2038 PINEY WOODS

6-11—AUSTIN: Christmas at the Carillon Performances are Dec. 6–9 at The Carillon, as well as Dec. 8 at University Presbyterian Church; Dec. 9 at St. Mathew’s Episcopal Church; Dec. 10 at St. Mary’s Cathedral; and Dec. 11 at St. Martin’s Lutheran Church. www.conspirare.org 512/476-5775 HILL COUNTRY

6, 13, 20—SAN ANGELO: Art Thursdays at the San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts Includes hands-on art activities. 1 Love St. 325/653-3333 PANHANDLE PLAINS

6-23—BRENHAM: Unity Theatre Presents Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol Places a twist on the classic story when Jacob Marley accepts a chance to free himself from a hellish eternity by redeeming Scrooge. www.unitybrenham.org 979/830-8358 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

6-24—ABILENE: 17th Annual Christmas Lane Lighted outdoor Christmas displays and an indoor display include animated dolls and figures. Hours are 6 to 10 p.m. Abilene State School. 325/795-3547 PANHANDLE PLAINS

6-Jan. 6—KERRVILLE: Photo Quest 2007 Show features photography by members of the Hill Country Camera Club. www.kacckerrville.com 830/895-2911 HILL COUNTRY

7—AMARILLO: First Friday Citywide Art Walk 806/352-7262 PANHANDLE PLAINS

7—AMARILLO: Holidays in the City — Electric Light Parade Features a 6 p.m. lighted parade through downtown Amarillo, ending at the Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts for the lighting of the city’s Christmas tree at 7 p.m. www.centercity.org 806/372-6744 PANHANDLE PLAINS

7—ATHENS: Live Stock Supporters Show Henderson County Fairpark Complex. 903/677-6354 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

7—BANDERA: Shopper’s Jubilee Begins in front of the historic Bandera County Courthouse. Listen to school groups and witness the arrival of Mary and Joseph followed by the lighting of the Christmas decorations. Then stroll the luminaria lit Main Street and enjoy merchants’ open houses. www.banderatex.com 830/796-3280 HILL COUNTRY

7—BAYTOWN: Christmas Parade Enjoy watching lighted floats, decorated vehicles, marching groups, school bands and Santa Claus parade down Texas Avenue. Begins at 6:30 p.m. www.baytown.org 281/420-6597 GULF COAST

7—BISHOP: Christmas in the Park Enjoy the lighting of the community Christmas tree, candlelight walk, Holy Family, carols by choirs and bands, and Santa arriving via fire truck. Bishop City Park. www.bishoptx.org 361/584-2214 GULF COAST

7—BONHAM: Christmas Parade Enjoy the parade and activities on the square. Begins at 6 p.m. www.bonhamchamber.com 903/583-4811 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

7—BRYAN: First Friday Includes artist demonstrations, horse-drawn carriage rides and live music. Hours are 5 to 10 p.m. Historic Downtown Bryan. 979/260-9898 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

7—CARROLLTON: Old-Fashioned Christmas Victorian carolers stroll the grounds spreading holiday cheer. Guides provide informal tours of the home decorated for the season. Hours are 6 to 8:30 p.m. A.W. Perry Homestead Museum. www.cityofcarrollton.com/museum 972/466-6380 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

7—CONROE: Traditional Sounds of Christmas Join the Conroe Symphony Orchestra with featured guests clarinet soloist Jonathan Jones and the Montgomery High School Choir. Begins at 7:30 p.m. The Ark Family Church. www.conroesymphony.org 936/760-2144 PINEY WOODS

7—DE LEON: Country Christmas Santa comes to town in a mule-drawn wagon. Includes pictures with Santa, vendors, children’s games and more. City Hall Auditorium. www.deleontexas.com/chamber 254/893-2083 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

7—EL PASO: Navidad on the Border Pays homage to the community’s traditional Christmas customs. Chamizal National Memorial Theater. 915/831-2701 BIG BEND COUNTRY

7—FORT STOCKTON: Christmas Parade E-mail: kfurman@ci.fort-stockton.tx.us 432/336-8525 ext. 16 BIG BEND COUNTRY

7—FREDERICKSBURG: Tannenbaum Ball Hours are 7 to 11:30 p.m. Fredericksburg Event Center. E-mail: pioneermuseum@pioneermuseum.com 830/997-2835 HILL COUNTRY

7—GEORGETOWN: First Fridays, a Celebration of the Arts www.downtowngeorgetownassociation.org 512/868-8675 HILL COUNTRY

7—GRAPEVINE: Yellow Rose Christmas Palace Theatre. www.grapevinetexasusa.com 817/410-3185 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

7—GREENVILLE: Annual Christmas Parade Includes marching bands, floats, antique cars and Santa Claus. Downtown Greenville. 903/457-3138 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

7—GRUENE: Kelly Willis & Bruce Robison Holiday Show Gruene Hall. www.gruenehall.com 830/629-5077 HILL COUNTRY

7—IRVING: BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet in Concert Irving Arts Center, Carpenter Performance Hall. www.irvingartscenter.com 972/252-7558 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

7—IRVING: Holiday Open House: Let the Good Times Roll! A Cajun Christmas Celebration Features entertainment, decorated trees, visits with Papa Noel, family art activities and more. Irving Arts Center. www.irvingartscenter.com 972/252-ARTS PRAIRIES AND LAKES

7—KILGORE: Holiday Happenings in Historic Homes Several homes in Kilgore’s historic district are opened during the holiday season for tours. These homes were built during the exciting “oil boom” in the 1930s. 903/984-3346 PINEY WOODS

7—LAKE JACKSON: Gulf Coast Bird Observatory Open House & Holiday Sale Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. www.gcbo.org 979/480-0999 GULF COAST

7—LAMPASAS: Carol of Lights 512/556-2224 HILL COUNTRY

7—LUBBOCK: First Friday Art Trail More than 20 venues showcase fabulous works of art. Hours are 6 to 9 p.m. www.ffat.org 806/762-8606 PANHANDLE PLAINS

7—NACOGDOCHES: Old-Fashioned Christmas at Millard’s Crossing Includes live music, pony rides, contra dancing, children’s train rides and more. Hours are 5 to 9 p.m. www.nineflagsfestival.com 888/653-3788 PINEY WOODS

7—NACOGDOCHES: Stephen F. Austin State University Christmas Choir Concert Begins at 7:30 p.m. W.M. Turner Auditorium. www.nineflagsfestival.com 888/240-ARTS PINEY WOODS

7—ODESSA: President’s Concert by the Odessa College Choir Begins at 7:30 p.m. Deadrick Auditorium at Odessa College, 201 W. University. 432/335-6630 BIG BEND COUNTRY

7—PECOS: Community Christmas Parade Watch floats, marching bands, cars, bicycles and Santa’s arrival. From Eddy Street down Business 20 to Reeves County Courthouse. www.pecostx.com 432/445-2406 BIG BEND COUNTRY

7—PLANO: Festival of Trees Historic Downtown Plano. www.planoparks.org 972/941-7250 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

7—QUINTANA: Christmas Tidings on the Gulf Quintana Beach County Park. www.brazoriacountyparks.com 979/864-1541 GULF COAST

7—SAN ANTONIO: Southtown First Friday Beethoven Hall and Garden 210/222-1521 SOUTH TEXAS PLAINS

7—WESLACO: Mid-Valley Lighted Christmas Parade Includes floats, music and twinkling lights. Begins at 6 p.m. Texas Boulevard, between Pike and 6th Street. www.weslaco.com 956/968-2102 SOUTH TEXAS PLAINS

7-8—CANYON: Christmas Open House Enjoy musical entertainment, children’s activities, Santa and Mrs. Claus, costumed interpreters, storytellers and much more. Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum. www.panhandleplains.org 806/651-2244 PANHANDLE PLAINS

7-8—GAINESVILLE: Victorian Stroll Enjoy the atmosphere of Christmas and Victorian days in downtown Gainesville. 940/612-1829 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

7-8—LUBBOCK: Candlelight at the Ranch Look back in time as Ranch Host volunteers re-create Christmas as it was from the 1780s to the early 1920s. National Ranching Heritage Center, 3121 4th St. www.nrhc.ttu.edu 806/742-0498 PANHANDLE PLAINS

7-8—MCALLEN: 25th Annual Candlelight Posada Christmas lighted parade is 7 p.m. Friday. Re-enactment of Mary & Joseph’s travels, along with entertainment, occur Saturday. Includes food booths, a main stage with musical entertainment and performances, Little Town and Teen Town. Archer Park. E-mail: acortina@mcallencvb.com 956/682-2871 SOUTH TEXAS PLAINS

7-8—ROCKPORT: Christmas Historical Home Tour Visit six beautiful historical homes in Rockport and Fulton that have been decked in holiday finery. Rockport-Fulton area. www.rockport-fulton.org 361/729-6445 GULF COAST

7-8—TYLER: Holiday in the Park Enjoy a concert, holiday-themed movie, snow hill and children’s area. Bergfeld Park. www.tylertexas.com 903/531-1214 PINEY WOODS

7-8, 14-15—JOHNSON CITY: Living Nativity Tells the story of Christmas narrated by Perry Como with actors and animals acting out the story. 1st United Methodist Church. 830/868-7414 HILL COUNTRY

7-8, 14-15, 21-22—RICHMOND: Campfire Christmas Visitors can experience a pioneer Christmas as it was celebrated in the 1830s at the Jones Stock Farm. Then visit George Ranch House for holiday vignettes, 1930s style. Includes a traditional Texas feast and more. George Ranch Historical Park. www.georgeranch.org 281/343-0218 GULF COAST

7-9—ABILENE: The Peddler Show Abilene Civic Center. 325/676-6211 or 800/775-2774 PANHANDLE PLAINS

7-9—AMARILLO: The Nutcracker The Lone Star Ballet presents this beloved holiday production with the Amarillo Symphony Orchestra. Civic Center Auditorium. www.lonestarballet.org 806/372-2463 PANHANDLE PLAINS

7-9—BONHAM: Trade Days Fort Inglish Park. www.bonhamchamber.com 903/583-4811 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

7-9—BROWNSVILLE: Zoo Nights & Lights Includes more than 800 luminary bags adorning the pathways, 135 lighted animal and holiday fixtures, church and social choirs, arts & crafts show, and more. Gladys Porter Zoo. www.gpz.org 956/546-7187 or 956/546-2177 GULF COAST

7-9—CONCAN: Trout Days Follows the stocking of the Nueces, Frio and Sabinal Rivers with rainbow trout. Includes informative programs and fishing contests. www.thcrr.com 800/210-0380 HILL COUNTRY

7-9—DALLAS: The Randy Brodnax Show Join more than 40 of Texas’ finest craftspeople for three days of holiday shopping, music and more. Sons of Hermann Hall. 214/232-0980 or 903/852-3311 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

7-9—EL PASO: Navidad de las Luminarias The Bruce Nehring Consort presents its annual Christmas concert, featuring vocal and instrumental arrangements of favorite holiday classics. Chapel at Loretto. 915/534-7664 BIG BEND COUNTRY

7-9—KERRVILLE: Hill Country Dog Agility Show Watch dogs as their handlers direct them through an obstacle course. Hill Country Youth Exhibit Center. 830/792-4728 HILL COUNTRY

7-9—MONTGOMERY: Christmas in Historic Montgomery Step back in time to the 1880s for a snapshot of Christmas long ago. Enjoy the annual Homes Tour. Includes breakfast with Santa, parade, kids day, arts & crafts and more. www.lakeconroetx.org 936/449-4960 PINEY WOODS

7-9—POST: Old Mill Trade Days Historic Postex Mill. www.oldmilltradedays.com 806/495-3529 or 866/433-6683 PANHANDLE PLAINS

7-9—SAN ANGELO: Christmas at Old Fort Concho Features shopping, living history, special children’s area, ongoing entertainment and special scheduled shows. Fort Concho National Historic Landmark. www.fortconcho.com 325/481-2646 or 325/657-4441 PANHANDLE PLAINS

7-9—SAN ANTONIO: Holiday Arts & Crafts Show River Walk Extension. 210/227-4262 SOUTH TEXAS PLAINS

7-9—SOUTH PADRE ISLAND: SPI Film Festival South Padre Island Convention Center. www.spifilmfestival.com GULF COAST

7-9—UVALDE: Fall Fly Fishing Fest & Contest 800/821-0380 HILL COUNTRY

7-9—WACO: Deck the Halls Holiday Gift Market Includes merchants from throughout Texas and other southern states. www.jlwaco.org 254/753-5574 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

7, 9—COLLEGE STATION: NCAA Women’s Soccer College Cup Final 4 Aggie Soccer Stadium, Texas A&M University. www.12thmanfoundation.com 979/845-2311 or 888/992-4443 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

7-9, 14-16—BURNET: Main Street Bethlehem Ancient Bethlehem comes alive. First Baptist Church, Vandeveer Street. www.fbcburnet.org 512/756-6033 HILL COUNTRY

7-9, 14-16—ODESSA: Yes, Virginia, There Really is a Santa Claus Permian Playhouse. 432/550-5456 BIG BEND COUNTRY

7-9, 14-16—WEATHERFORD: Fruitcakes A mix of fruitcakes, two southern spinsters and unlikely characters create a recipe for a fun-filled and touching evening. 114 N. Denton Road. www.weatherfordtots.org 817/341-8687 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

7-Jan. 13—HOUSTON: Altar Boyz Features a Christian boy-band (with one nice Jewish boy) looking for their big break and saving souls along the way. www.stagestheatre.com 713/527-0123 GULF COAST

8—ALBANY: Christmas Tour of Homes Visit homes in Albany that are decked out for Christmas. Thousands of lights, ornaments inside and outside decorations adorn these homes. 325/762-2525 PANHANDLE PLAINS

8—BANDERA: Holiday Parade Welcome Santa to Bandera. Begins at 11 a.m. Main Street. www.banderatex.com 830/796-3280 HILL COUNTRY

8—BASTROP: Christmas Parade Includes an annual nighttime lighted parade down Main Street. www.bastropchamber.com 512/332-0233 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

8—BASTROP: Holiday Homes Tour Self-guided tour features historic and unique buildings in old town Bastrop. Hours are noon to 5 p.m. 512/321-8580 or 512/303-0057 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

8—BASTROP: Pine Street Market Day Includes arts & crafts, jewelry, woodworking, clothing and other handmade items. Pine Street, Downtown Bastrop. www.bastropbpw.com 512/303-6233 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

8—BASTROP: Second Saturday Salebration Features antiques, arts & crafts, jewelry and other handmade items. Downtown. www.bastropdba.org 512/303-0558 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

8—BAYTOWN: Christmas on Texas Avenue Enjoy a fun-filled day with a car show, local entertainment, good food, arts & craft vendors, kids activities and a visit from Santa Claus. Texas Avenue. E-mail: terry.presley@earthlink.net 281/427-6690 or 281/424-7838 GULF COAST

8—BEEVILLE: Christmas in Beeville: The Bee County Sesquicentennial Kick-Off Includes vendors, music, holiday games and more. Hours are 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. At 6:30 p.m., the Second Annual Lighted Night Parade glitters with lights and energy. 361/362-3981 SOUTH TEXAS PLAINS

8—BLANCO: Christmas Parade Begins at 10 a.m. Town Square. 830/833-0343 HILL COUNTRY

8—BLANCO: Market Day Features arts & crafts, antiques, collectibles, jewelry, unique gifts and more. Old Blanco County Courthouse. www.historicblanco.org 830/833-2211 HILL COUNTRY

8—BOERNE: Second Saturday Art & Wine Galleries host joint openings from 5 to 8 p.m. www.visitboerne.org 830/249-7277 HILL COUNTRY

8—BRAZORIA: 21st Annual Christmas Home Decorating & Boat Parade Contest E-mail: parade@sanbernardriver.com 979/964-4402 GULF COAST

8—BURNET: Old Burnet Square Christmas Festival Includes crafts, food vendors, entertainment and more. Downtown Square. www.burnetchamber.org 512/756-4297 HILL COUNTRY

8—CASTROVILLE: Market Trail Day Features arts, crafts, plants and food booths from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Houston Square on Angelo Street. 830/931-2161 or 830/538-2316 HILL COUNTRY

8—CEDAR HILL: Caroling through Penn Farm Tour historic Penn Farm by lantern light and enjoy a Christmas carol sing-along around the campfire. Begins at 6 p.m. Call to confirm program. 972/291-3900 ext. 232 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

8—CHAPPELL HILL: Christmas Home Tour Visit beautiful country homes decorated for the holidays. Enjoy the Teddy Bear Parade at 3 p.m. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. www.chappellhillmuseum.org 979/836-6033 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

8—CLEAR LAKE AREA: 46th Annual Christmas Lane Boat Parade More than 100 beautifully lighted and extravagantly decorated boats travel leisurely through Clear Lake and up Clear Creek Channel to Galveston Bay. Begins at 6 p.m. 800/844-5253 or 281/488-7676 GULF COAST

8—COLEMAN: Cattlewomen Christmas Ball Bill Franklin Center at the Rodeo Grounds. E-mail: crystalball87@hotmail.com 325/357-4643 PANHANDLE PLAINS

8—COLORADO CITY: Christmas Ball with Jody Nix Civic Center. www.coloradocitychamberofcommerce.com 325/728-3404 PANHANDLE PLAINS

8—COMANCHE: Cora’s Christmas Includes Santa at Old Cora and a lighted Christmas parade. Historic Downtown. www.comanchechamber.org 325/356-3233 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

8—CONROE: Annual Children’s Christmas Parade Stroll through the beautifully lighted Downtown Conroe and get in the holiday spirit. Hours are noon to 3 p.m. Downtown Conroe. 936/756-3417 or 936/756-4671 PINEY WOODS

8—CONROE: Holiday in the Park Vendors offer a variety of items. Children can participate in games, activities and arts & crafts. Santa will make an early appearance and accept letters following the parade. Heritage Place. www.cityofconroe.org/parks 936/522-3911 PINEY WOODS