We all know that Texas doesn’t do snow, so it does lights. From the cypress trees on the San Antonio River Walk to the cast-iron storefronts of Galveston’s Strand, the state has some of the country’s best holiday traditions. Here are 13 events in nine towns worth planning a weekend around, with a charming inn nearby for each.
Let’s start our holiday celebration tour at the Ford Holiday River Parade, San Antonio, Friday, November 27. The parade and river lighting ceremony start at 6 p.m. at the Tobin Center, with a live broadcast at 7:05 p.m. from the Arneson River Theatre. The 200,000 lights draped over the River Walk’s cypress trees stay on through early January, and viewing them is free. Parade seating is ticketed, and this year’s grand marshal is the Witte Museum, celebrating its 100th birthday. Book a South Texas inn, such as any of the Noble Inns, Arbor House, or Santos Patronos Ranch.
Our next stop is the Light the Night Christmas Parade, Fredericksburg, Friday, December 4. The parade rolls down Main Street at 6:30 p.m., with more than 150 illuminated floats. Food vendors and kids’ activities open on Marktplatz at 3 p.m., and Santa takes free photos after the parade. Bring a lawn chair, the whole family, and a blanket…