Christmas in Palestine

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Christmas in Palestine

PJ's Welcome

A train ride is just the beginning of holiday traditions in Palestine, Texas. Christmas in Palestine will offer plenty of family-friendly fun this holiday season. Palestine is the perfect destination to shop, dine and unwind during the most festive time of the year.

Special events planned November 19 through Dec. 27, 2021 make this Christmas an ideal time to visit the City of Palestine. The season is filled with family activities, events and decorations that capture the holiday season. Below are some of our special holiday events:

The Polar Express™ Train Ride:

November 19 - December 26

Read along with the story as the historic steam strain makes its magical round-trip from the Palestine Depot to the North Pole. Meet Santa and enjoy caroling, hot cocoa, a treat and a special gift for each child. 855-632-7729

texasstaterailroad.net/polarexpress

Grinch’s Lair at the Historic Anderson County Jail:

November 19 - December 19 Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays from 12 p.m.- 6 p.m. $12.00 per person

He’s mean, he’s green and he’s in Palestine. The Grinch will take you on a tour of his home. Characters from the beloved book are staged throughout the historic attraction. Waivers, temperature checks, and masks are required. Gloves will be provided. 903-373-8158 704 Avenue A

Tickets available at texasjailhouse.com

Old Town Carriage Rides

Saturdays November 20 thru and December 18 and a special opportunity to ride Christmas Eve, December 24th.
Departing from Wells Creek Crossing, 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. $25.00 per ride.
For questions or more information, please call 903-804-0494. Private rides are available (price may vary)
305. E Crawford St.
See Old Town Carriage Facebook

Make your Own Glitter Ornament

December 12, 19, 22 & 23 from 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. and December 24 from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., stop in and create your own custom Glitter Ornament! Pricing starts at $10 per ornament. Fun for all ages! Chloe & Claire Co. 304 E Crawford St. 903-731-2753

Breakfast with Mrs. Claus

November 28, December 5, 12, 19, 21, 22 &23
Grab a plate piled high with pancakes and all the toppings you could imagine! Offered every Saturday morning from 9:00 a.m.- 11:00 a.m. at Lulu & Kakes Cupcakery & Sweet Shoppe at 115 W Main St. 903-392-7917

Photos with Santa:

November 28 & December 5th, 12th & 19th.

Skip the big city lines and have your photo taken with Santa and write a letter to Santa. Over Yonder 619 W. Oak St 903-731-4121

Old Town Vintage Christmas Open House:

December 11
Activities for the kids, Christmas cookies & hot chocolate, and sales throughout the shop for everyone. Activities include ornament making and storytelling. This is a free event.10:00 am - 5:00 pm 903-221-6233

Kendra Scott Pop Up Shop

December 3

Join us for a Kendra Gives Back Pop-Up! Kendra Scott is teaming up with the Crisis Center of Anderson & Cherokee Counties to host a pop-up shop from 4-7pm.
Harvey Women's Club 200 ACR 378

Courthouse Christmas Tree Lighting - FREE

December 4

Let the spirit of the season embrace you as the historic Anderson County Courthouse comes alive with illumination at one of Palestine’s most beloved nighttime event.

Christmas in the Park - FREE

December 4

Make the evening special & bring your lawn chairs and blankets and enjoy "The Elf", a holiday themed movie and receive complimentary hot chocolate and popcorn. 401 W. Main St.

Railroad Heritage Center:

History steams into downtown with the Texas State Railroad Society's presentation at the Railroad Heritage Center featuring a 37' x 17' HO scale model train display. Marvel at model train displays, hands on exhibits, history, artifacts and train memorabilia. 903-393-4014

808 W. Oak Street 7 days a week during Christmas in Palestine!

Railroad Heritage Center

$3.00 per adult
$1.00 per child

A 37' x 17' HO scale model railroad

A Walk Through Bethlehem:

December 10 -12 | 4:00pm - 6:00pm

Guided tours through the streets of Bethlehem begin with a hay ride to the gates. Walk through the streets, complete with live animals, local Bethlehem vendors and a very happy ending.

903-764-8048 Montalba Baptist Church - Hwy 19 N @ FM 321

18th Annual Christmas Carol Sing Along:

December 16

Put on your festive sweaters and head over to the Historic Texas Theatre for a classic Christmas sing along to traditional Christmas carols. Free refreshments served at 6:30 pm, sing along begins at 7:00 pm
213 W. Crawford Street