A Piney Woods Christmas in Palestine, TX

Our elves are working extra hard to make sure the perfect Christmas season is on the way. Stay tuned. We expect this information will be fully updated no later than October 1, 2026.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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
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.

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

903-723-5192 | 223 W Crawford St

For more information, please visit Home Grill's 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 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

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 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

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.

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.

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 | LOCATION TBD

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 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.

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