A Piney Woods Christmas in Palestine, TX

Our elves are working away to make sure the perfect Christmas season is on the way. Stay tuned.

When the weather cools and the scent of pine fills the air, Palestine, Texas transforms into a holiday fairytale. Recently described as “as close to a Hallmark movie as you can get,” this charming East Texas town captures the magic of the season in a way few destinations can. Enjoy a ride on the Polar Express™, explore charming holiday markets, and take in the twinkling lights that adorn the city. Whether you’re savoring seasonal treats or participating in unique holiday events, Palestine offers a delightful escape for the holidays. Write your perfect Christmas story and discover the enchanting experiences that await you in Palestine.

A Town Wrapped in Lights

Photo Credit: Dave Shultz

Palestine is home to more than 1,800 historic structures, and in December many of them sparkle with lights and seasonal décor. The entire downtown district glows with storefront windows dressed for the holidays, lampposts wrapped in greenery, and music drifting through the streets. The atmosphere is joyful and welcoming, whether you are visiting for the day or settling in for a weekend getaway.

The Polar Express Experience

The Texas State Railroad brings holiday magic to life with its famous Polar Express™ Train Ride. Families board vintage railcars and are whisked away on a journey to the North Pole, complete with hot cocoa, cookies, golden tickets, and a special visit from Santa Claus. Children and parents alike are encouraged to wear pajamas, making the adventure feel like stepping directly into the classic Christmas story.

A Picture-Perfect Setting

Every corner of Palestine is an instagrammable moment during the holidays. Visitors explore Christmas shops, discover a hidden elf workshop village, pose with historic buildings dressed in garland, and capture magical moments along the parade route. Carriage rides through the illuminated streets make it easy to imagine you are starring in your own small-town Christmas story.

Festive Events for All Ages

Palestine’s holiday calendar is filled with beloved traditions that bring the community together. The Christmas Parade of Lights is one of the season’s most anticipated events, with glowing floats, marching bands, and thousands of spectators filling the streets in celebration. The Historic Home Tour invites visitors to step inside some of the city’s most beautiful residences, where history and holiday charm create unforgettable settings.

Families will also love special experiences like pop-up photo ops with Santa, a morning of Pancakes with Mrs. Claus, and a playful trip to the Grinch’s Lair inside the Historic Texas Jailhouse. Seasonal markets add to the festivities with handcrafted gifts, artisan creations, and antiques perfect for holiday shopping.

Plan Your Holiday Visit

Click on the images below to explore a wide range of available Christmas activities.

While the events and attractions are memorable, what makes Christmas in Palestine truly magical is the hospitality. Shop owners welcome you with a smile, restaurants serve comforting seasonal dishes, and locals share the warmth of the season as if you were part of their own community. Staying in a historic 1914 hotel only adds to the feeling of stepping back in time for a simpler, more heartwarming holiday.

Whether you come for the Polar Express, the Christmas Parade of Lights, to discover the Grinch’s Lair, or have breakfast with Mrs. Claus, Christmas in Palestine is sure to create lasting memories. Plan your visit today and discover why so many families return year after year.

Events & Activities

The Polar Express™ Train Ride:

November 14 - December 28*

*Detailed schedule is available on the Texas State Railroad website.

The captivating story comes to life the minute the train departs the Palestine Depot for the journey to the North Pole. (The adventure is even more fun when families and friends show up in their pajamas!)

Enveloped by the motion picture soundtrack, passengers will relive the magic of the tale as they are whisked away on THE POLAR EXPRESS™. Once onboard, chefs serve hot chocolate and cookies as they recite the classic children’s book, The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg. (Be sure to purchase a book along with your tickets so your child can read his/her own book along with the chefs.)

At the North Pole, Santa and his elves greet passengers and then board the train. St. Nick gives everyone the first gift of Christmas – a silver sleigh bell (only believers can hear ringing!). On the ride back to THE POLAR EXPRESS™ train depot, chefs lead passengers in singing joyous Christmas carols.

855-632-7729 | 789 Park Road 70 | Pricing Varies
Get your tickets here.

Grinch’s Lair at the Historic Texas Jailhouse:
This Christmas, don’t miss your chance to meet the Grinch at the Texas Jailhouse! Known for his grumpy antics, our hilarious and endearing Grinch is now on a mission to make Christmas special for everyone. Come see him in his festive jailhouse lair, where he’s learning the joy of giving back.

Inspired by Dr. Seuss’s beloved tale “How The Grinch Stole Christmas,” this interactive, live production invites you to explore the Grinch’s world. Enjoy a fun-filled visit with the Grinch, his sidekick Max, and other delightful characters as they bring holiday cheer to life.

903-480-0212 | 704 Avenue A | $15 per person
Get your tickets here.

Braly's Ace Hardware Holiday Events:

Kids’ Christmas Party

Date: December 7
Time: 10 AM - 12 PM
Description: Bring the little ones for a morning filled with holiday cheer, crafts, and activities.

DIY Paint a Train and Scavenger Hunt

Dates: November 15 - December 28
Time: 10 AM - 4 PM (available any day the train is running at the Texas State Railroad Park)
Description: Participate in a delightful DIY activity and scavenger hunt at Braly’s Ace Hardware, perfect for families to create memories together.

903-723-2179 | 420 W Palestine Ave/Hwy 79
For more information, please visit Braly's Facebook.

Pancakes with Mrs. Claus

Jump out of bed and start the day with a hot pancake breakfast with Mrs. Claus at Home Grill Steakhouse. Of course, PJ’s are welcome!

Dates: **Saturdays and Sundays Only**

11/22-11/23

11/29-11/30

12/06-12/07

12/13-12/14

12/20-12/21

Times:
9AM - 10:30AM

903-723-5192 | 223 W Crawford St | Please call for reservations.

For more information, please visit Home Grill's Facebook.

Horse Drawn Carriage Rides

Fridays 6:00pm - 10:00pm
Saturdays 2:00 pm - 10:00pm
November 18 thru December 24
Departing from the Redlands Hotel, climb into a beautiful classic carriage and enjoy a ride throughout the Historic Main Street District aglow with holiday lighting. Each ride can hold 2-4 adults, groups with children may accommodate more riders. $40.00 per ride
For questions, reservations and more information, please call 903-804-0494. Private rides are available (price may vary)
400 N. Queen St.. Weather permitting.
See Old Town Carriage Facebook

Festival of the Nativities:
Experience a special Festival of Nativities at Bethlehem Lutheran Church. View a beautiful display of nativity sets, including collections from their church members and local friends. Enjoy warm beverages like coffee, hot chocolate, and wassail, along with festive cookies. They invite the everyone to share in this joyful celebration of the season!

📅 Dates: December 7

🕡 Time: 2:00PM - 7:00PM

📍 Location: Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Palestine, TX

903-391-1691 | 1515 S Loop 256

Christmas on Main:

Enjoy a full day of holiday festivities in the Palestine Main Street district on December 6!

Coffee & More at Old Magnolia: 8:00AM - 10:00AM
Enjoy 1/2 priced coffee, including seasonal and specialty brews. Plus, cookies, coffee, cocoa, and coloring are available all day during store hours.

Pancakes with Mrs. Claus at Home Grill Steakhouse: 9:00AM - 10:30AM
Join Mrs. Claus for a delightful morning of pancakes, holiday cheer, and festive fun for the whole family!

Christmas Brunch at Queen St Grille: 9:00AM - 2:00PM
Savor a delicious holiday brunch with seasonal favorites at Queen Street Grille.

Christmas at the Farmers Market: 9:00AM - 3:00PM
Shop for unique holiday gifts, fresh produce, and homemade treats at the festive Farmers Market.

Pictures with Santa:
Redlands Hotel: 10:00AM-12:00PM
Curious Museum: 11:00AM-2:00PM {Print on site with Photographer Jacquelyn-Paige}
Crimson Room: 12:00PM-5:00PM
Rotary Park: After the parade

Palestine Public Library Open House: TBD
Explore the library’s festive decorations, enjoy holiday-themed activities, and discover new books and resources.

Kids Christmas Party at Braly's Ace Hardware: TBD
Bring the little ones for a morning filled with holiday cheer, crafts, and activities.

Christmas Activities at Curious Museum: 10:00AM - 5:00PM
Experience festive Christmas activities at the Curious Museum, where holiday fun and learning come together for all ages.

Old Town Vintage & More Open House: 10:00AM - 3:00PM
Bring the family for face painting and ornament making for the kiddos, hot chocolate, hot apple cider, cookies, and fabulous shopping throughout the shop, with FREE admission and fun for all ages.

Palestine Trade Days: 9:00AM - 4:00PM
Explore a vibrant marketplace, where you can discover unique treasures, antiques, and handmade items, perfect for all ages to enjoy!

The Christmas Shop at Wells Creek Crossing: 10:00Am - 5:00PM, September 1-December 31
Perfect for finding last minute Christmas gifts and supporting local artists/small businesses!

Santa's Workshop at the Chamber of Commerce: 11:00AM
Experience the magic at Santa's Workshop, featuring kids' activities, photo ops, family fun, arts & crafts, and even a snowball fight!

Holiday Home Tour: 4:00PM - 7:00PM
Explore the charm of historic homes inside and out on the Holiday Home Tour hosted by the Palestine Area Chamber of Commerce; purchase tickets here.

Christmas Parade of Lights: 7:00PM
Witness the streets of the Main Street district come alive with colorful lights, beautiful floats, and smiles all around!

Parade Application

Santa at Rotary Park: After the Parade
Join Santa at the Rotary Park Gazebo at 400 W. Main Street to share your Christmas wishes.

Christmas Movie in the Park: After the Parade - Approximately 8:30PM
Bring your lawn chairs and blankets and enjoy a free showing of a classic Christmas movie with cookies and hot chocolate, courtesy of the Palestine Area Chamber of Commerce.

Photos with Santa & Mrs. Claus

December 2, 9, 16 & 23

Skip the big city lines this year and go to Over Yonder for professional photos by Photographer Jacquelyn-Paige with Santa & Mrs. Claus, and Over Yonder has everything ready for you to write a special letter to Santa! 10am - 2pm. $10.00 | Over Yonder, 619 W. Oak St. 903-731-4121

Railroad Heritage Center Extended Hours:

This holiday season, the Railroad Heritage Center of Palestine is extending its hours to give you more time to explore and enjoy!

📅 Dates: November 15 - December 28, 2024
🕤 Extended Hours: 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM
📍 Location: Railroad Heritage Center, Palestine, TX

Discover the rich history of railroads through fascinating exhibits, including a stunning 37’ x 17’ scale model railroad. Whether you’re a train enthusiast or looking for a unique holiday outing, the Railroad Heritage Center offers something for everyone.

For an even more immersive experience, visitors can explore the Railroad Heritage Center before or after their Polar Express™ Train Ride. Dive deeper into the world of railroading and make your holiday outing truly unforgettable.

Bring family and friends to experience the magic of the rails and make the most of these extended hours. The Railroad Heritage Center looks forward to welcoming everyone!

903-586-7141 | 808 W Oak Street | $5 Per Person at the Door

Pancakes & Pics with Santa & Mrs. Claus:
Enjoy a festive morning with Altrusa International of Anderson County to savor a delicious pancake breakfast for only $10 Children 6 years old and under are $5, and pictures are $5 per digital image. Capture the holiday magic and make joyful memories!

📅 Dates: December 14

🕡 Time: 8:00AM - 11:00AM

📍 Location: Nickel Manor

817-395-2648 | 501 Ave A | Scan QR code to purchase your tickets

Christmas Carol Sing-Along at the Texas Theatre:
Join us for the 21st Annual Christmas Carols Sing-Along at the beautiful Texas Theatre! Admission is FREE for this beloved community event. Bring the whole family and enjoy an evening filled with classic Christmas carols in a cozy and festive setting. Doors open at 6:30 PM, and the singing starts at 7:00 PM. Come share in the joy and wonder of Christmas with family and friends!

📅 Dates: December 198

🕡 Time: 7:00PM - 8:30PM

📍 Location: Texas Theatre

903-394-2173 | 213 W Crawford St | FREE

A Chamber Christmas:
City-Wide Christmas Light Contest

Dates: December 1 - 31
Description: Come see Palestine all lit up and join the fun. Don’t forget to vote for your favorite displays to help choose the winners! For a map of all the must-see spots, click here.

Santa's Workshop

Date: December 6
Time: 11AM-4PM
Description: Kids can enjoy Christmas activities including arts & crafts, fun photo ops and even a snowball fight!

Holiday Home Tour

Date: December 6
Time: 4:00PM - 7PM
Description: Explore the charm of historic homes inside and out on the Holiday Home Tour hosted by the Palestine Area Chamber of Commerce; purchase tickets here.

903-729-6066 | 401 W Main St
For more information, please visit the Chamber website.

Christmas at Curious Museum:
Celebrate Christmas at the Curious Museum, an exciting STEAM wonderland filled with hands-on experiences like making paper fly hands-free, riding bikes to move trains, and seeing yourself appear to fly. To make your Christmas extra special, join us for Fun Family Days on Saturdays and Sundays with make-and-take activities for children. Create holiday memories with projects like Hand Print Christmas Trees, Reindeer Masks, Peppermint Spinners, and other fun activities.

Admission:
Children and Adults: $10
Senior Citizens: $8
Members and children 2 & under: FREE

903-727-0204 | 619 W Oak St | More Info

Pink Friday Event:
Join Old Town Vintage and More for the Pink Friday event on November 22, 2024, from 1 PM to 8 PM. Attendees can purchase a ticket to receive a special event bag and entries into the grand prize drawing. Exclusive items such as T-shirts, ornaments, and kitchen towels will be available for purchase.

Guests can pick up their bags and items at the shop, along with a map of participating downtown shops. By collecting stamps from all the shops and returning to Old Town Vintage and More, they can enter the grand prize drawing.

Support local businesses and enjoy a festive day in Palestine, TX!

903-221-6233 | 306 N Sycamore St | Pricing Varies
For more information, please visit Old Town Vintage & More's Facebook.

Festival of Trees:
Dogwood Garden Club’s 13th Annual Festival of Trees, supporting non-profit organizations. The decorated trees will be on display on Carnegie Library lawn during the Christmas season (12/02/2025 - 12/26/2025). The trees will be voted on and cash prizes will be given for the winning trees in 4 categories. Winners will be announced at the Palestine Visitor Center on December 13, 2025.

903-478-3264 | 502 N Queen St

Walk of Lights:

Enjoy a stroll through a self-guided, magical light-up wonderland. Warm up with a cup of hot chocolate and other goodies from our concession stand. Don’t miss out on the festive vendors offering unique holiday gifts and treats. Plus, capture the joy of the season with pictures with Santa! Admission is $20.00 per car at the entrance.

Dates: **Weather Permitting**

11/22-11/24

11/27-12/01

12/06-12/08

12/13-12/15

12/19-12/30

Times:

6:00PM-9:00PM

Directions:

From Palestine, take 155 N, and turn left on FM 315. Travel 1.2 miles, destination is on the left.

903-922-9079 | 2161 FM 315 | $20 per car
For more info, please visit Walk of Lights' Facebook

Christmas at the Redlands Hotel: Making Sweet Memories

This holiday season, immerse yourself in the magic of Christmas at the Redlands Hotel! Every corner of our historic hotel is transformed into a festive wonderland, creating the perfect backdrop for making sweet memories with loved ones.

Meet Santa Claus, His Elf, and Toy Soldier: On weekends from 9 AM to Noon, visit the main lobby to snap free photos with Santa Claus, his elf, and his Toy Soldier using your own camera.
Stunning Holiday Décor: Our elves have meticulously decorated each suite and lobby area with beautiful Christmas trees and dazzling holiday decorations, ensuring photo opportunities at every turn.
The Grinch’s Library: Step into the whimsical world of the Grinch and enjoy this unique themed area.
Scavenger Hunt: Embark on a fun-filled scavenger hunt throughout the hotel and see if you can find all the special items hidden by our elves.
Letters to Santa: Children can drop off their letters to Santa in the special mailbox located in the lobby.

This festive experience is open to both guests and visitors, so come and enjoy the holiday spirit at the Redlands Hotel!

Dates:
11/15-12/31

Times:
8AM - 9PM

903-729-2345 | 400 N Queen St
For more information, please visit the Redlands' Facebook.

Christmas Brunch at Queen St Grille
Celebrate the most festive season of all with a delightful Christmas Brunch at Queen St Grille, located inside the historic Redlands Hotel. Enjoy a delicious brunch every Saturday and Sunday in November and December, from 10 AM to 2 PM, followed by lunch.

From 10 AM-1 PM, you'll have the chance to meet Santa Claus, his elf, and the Toy Soldier, making it a magical experience for the whole family. Each weekend, our beautifully decorated venue provides the perfect holiday atmosphere to create sweet memories.

Reservations are recommended.

903-723-2404 | 400 N Queen St | Queen St Grille's Menu.

Live Show at the Texas Theatre:
Get ready for a whimsical holiday experience with A Seussified Christmas Carol and Variety Show at the Texas Theater!

Join us for a unique twist on Charles Dickens’ classic tale, reimagined in the playful and rhyming style of Dr. Seuss. This live, interactive production promises to bring joy and laughter to audiences of all ages. In addition to the main performance, enjoy a variety show featuring local talent, adding even more festive fun to your evening.

Don’t miss this enchanting holiday event at the Texas Theater, perfect for families and friends looking to celebrate the season in a truly magical way.

903-394-2173 | 213 W Crawford St | $17 or $12 for ages 4-18
Get your tickets here.

Palestine Christmas Market:
Get ready to experience the joy of the season at the 2nd Annual Christmas Market, where holiday magic truly comes alive! This festive event is the perfect place to find that special something for everyone on your list.

Happening Friday, December 13th and Saturday, December 14th at 200 N Church St in Palestine, TX, Vendors are selected through a jury process to ensure a diverse and high-quality market. With over 20 unique boutiques, attendees will discover a delightful array of handmade, vintage-inspired treasures. There’s something special for everyone!

This isn’t just about shopping—it’s about the stories behind the gifts and the memories created. Discover the artistry of local creators and take home a piece of holiday wonder.

Tickets:

VIP Night: $10 online or $15 at the entrance.
Market Day: Free for everyone!

Mark your calendars and get ready to make this season unforgettable. The PCM Hostesses can’t wait to share the magic with you!

903-394-8223 | 200 N Church St | Purchase your VIP tickets here.

Anderson County Community Chorus & Orchestra:
Join the community for an enchanting afternoon filled with the joyous sounds of the season! The Anderson County Chorus and Orchestra proudly present “The Sounds of Christmas,” a festive concert that will warm hearts and lift spirits.

📅 Date: December 8, 2024
🕑 Time: 2:00 PM
📍 Location: Palestine High School Auditorium, Palestine, TX

Experience the magic of Christmas through a beautiful selection of holiday music performed by the talented local chorus and orchestra. This event is perfect for families, friends, and anyone looking to celebrate the holiday season with a touch of musical delight.

903-723-3014 | 1600 S Loop 256 | FREE

The Dogwood Jamboree - A Christmas Celebration:
Enjoy a special Christmas-themed, Branson-style country music show featuring classic country hits, holiday favorites, and plenty of laughter. The talented performers and comedians will ensure a night of unforgettable entertainment for the whole family.

📅 Date: December 14, 2024
🕖 Time: 7:00 PM
📍 Location: Palestine High School Auditorium

Doors open at 6:00 PM, so come early to get the best seats and soak in the festive atmosphere. Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate the season with great music, comedy, and community spirit.

903-724-2556 | 1600 S Loop 256 | $20 per person at the door