A Piney Woods Christmas in Palestine, TX

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.

Plan your Christmas Getaway

The Christmas Parade of Lights

Light up the season at Palestine’s Christmas Parade of Lights! One of our community’s most beloved holiday traditions, this spectacular parade brings the magic of Christmas to downtown Palestine, TX, with nearly a mile of illuminated floats, festive displays, and holiday cheer! This year, the parade is on December 5, at 7:00 PM

Bundle up, bring the family, and find your favorite spot along the parade route as thousands of twinkling lights transform our historic downtown into a dazzling Christmas celebration. From creatively decorated floats to local organizations spreading holiday cheer, every entry adds a little more magic to the evening.

Want to be part of the fun? Businesses, organizations, families, and community groups are invited to register and help us make this year’s parade shine brighter than ever!

Register to participate or view parade details

All Aboard THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride

Step into a favorite Christmas story aboard THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride at Texas State Railroad. From the historic Palestine Depot, families set off with hot chocolate and cookies, the familiar sounds of the story, and a little extra room for wonder.

Watch for the North Pole, meet Santa and his elves, and bring home the first gift of Christmas: a silver sleigh bell. Pajamas are welcome, childhood magic is encouraged, and the memory tends to outlast the cookies.

THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride departs from Palestine, TX throughout the holiday season. Choose from several seating options and reserve early for the date that fits your Christmas getaway.

The Polar Express™ Train Ride:

November 13 - 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

Book your POLAR EXPRESS ride now

A Christmas Weekend in Palestine, TX

This is a sample itinerary of a few things you can experience in Palestine, TX. We encourage you to make your own adventure from any of our great events happening while you're here! We also encourage you to book tickets and make reservations ahead! Christmas is a very busy season for our small town, and events and activities DO sell out.

Day 1 (Friday):
10:00 AM Shop downtown Palestine merchants for unique gifts. You might even spot Santa!
12:00 PM Enjoy lunch at one of our local restaurants.
1:00 PM Stop at the Palestine Visitor Center to grab local information.
1:30 PM Explore the Palestine Railroad Heritage Museum.
5:00 PM Ride the Polar Express!
7:00 PM Dinner at one of our local restaurants.

Day 2 (Saturday):
9:30 AM Breakfast with Mrs. Claus
11:00 AM Explore our Curious Museum
12:30 PM Lunch at one of our local restaurants
1:30 PM Enjoy a slice of pie from Oxbow Bakery
3:00 PM Take an adventure through the Grinch's Lair
5:00 PM Dinner at one of our local restaurants
6:30 PM Explore the Walk of Lights

Day 3: (Sunday):
9:30 AM Enjoy a Christmas Brunch at the Queen St. Grille.

Events & Activities

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.

A Town Wrapped in Lights

Photo Credit: Dave Shultz

Anderson County 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.

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.

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.

Pink Friday Event:
Join Old Town Vintage and More for the Pink Friday event on November 20, 2026, 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.

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 5
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 13 - 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.

A Walk Through Bethlehem:

Embark on a journey through the streets of Bethlehem this holiday season! Your adventure begins with a delightful hay ride to the gates. Stroll through the lively streets, featuring live animals and local Bethlehem vendors, creating a truly immersive experience.

📅 Dates: December 11, 12, 13

🕡 Time: 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM

📍 Location: Montalba Baptist Church, Palestine, TX

Bring your family and friends for an unforgettable evening that captures the true essence of Christmas.

903-549-2319 | Hwy 19 N / FM 321, Montalba | FREE

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 11 - 13, 2026

🕡 Time: Friday & Saturday: 5:00 - 8:00 PM, Sunday after church

📍 Location: Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Palestine, TX

903-391-1691 | 1515 S Loop 256

Penthouse Tour
Tour the rarely seen Penthouse at the Historic Redlands Hotel. Enjoy hors d’oeuvres, holiday decorations, music and festivities with friends on this rare and momentous occasion.

📅 Dates: November 13 & 14, December 10 & 11, and December 17, 18, & 19, 2026

🕡 Time: 5:00 PM each night

📍 Location: Redlands Hotel.

903-729-2345 | 400 N. Queen St.

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 12, 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

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 17

🕡 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 5
Time: 11AM-4PM
Description: Kids can enjoy Christmas activities including arts & crafts, fun photo ops and even a snowball fight!

Holiday Home Tour

Date: Guided tour on December 11 and self-guided on December 12
Time: December 11 - 7:00 PM and December 12 - 4:00-7:00 PM
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 (ticket link coming soon!).

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

Breakfast with Mrs. Claus

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

Dates:

11/27-11/29

12/05-12/06

12/12-12/13

12/19-12/20

Times:
8:00AM - 10:30 AM
Reservations are preferred

903-723-5192 | 223 W Crawford St

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

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**

11/20-11/22

11/25-11/29

12/04-12/06

12/11-12/13

12/18-12/27

Times:

6:00PM-10:00PM

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

Wreaths for All Seasons:
This year, the Dogwood Garden Club's annual Festival of Trees is taking a whole new shape - round! Join in supporting non-profit organizations. As the name suggests, each organization will have a wreath season, and must create a unique wreath for that season. The wreaths will be on display from December 1 until December 26. A 1st prize winner will be announced from each of the 4 seasons! Winners will be announced at the Palestine Visitor Center.

903-478-3264 | Wreaths on display at Old Magnolia - 120 W. Oak St.

Christmas at the Redlands Hotel: Explore & Be Merry

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: 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.

Special Dates: Christmas Brunch with Buddy The Elf - 11/14, 11/28, 12/5, 12/12, 12/19

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 12, 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