Celebrate the holidays at Texas State Parks

Walk a trail of lights at Monument Hill in LaGrange. Photo courtesy Texas State Parks

Stroll through a lighted display in LaGrange, take a Boxing Day hike at the Franklin Mountains or experience an old-fashioned Christmas at Eisenhower Birthplace State Historic Site – it’s time to celebrate the holidays at Texas State Parks.

Parks across the state are celebrating the season with a slate of festive events.

We’ve highlighted a few but check the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website for others. And reserve day passes online or by calling (512) 389-8900.

Holidays at Texas State Parks

Eisenhower Birthplace State Historic Site: Between Dec. 11-23, visitors can take a self-guided tour of the grounds and learn how Christmas was celebrated in North Texas during the 1890s, when Dwight Eisenhower was born, and 1940s, when the Denison community preserved the Birthplace house. Children’s craft kits will be available while supplies last. For more information, call (903) 465-8908.

Falcon State Park: Grab a spot in the park’s day-use area to watch the Third Annual Falcon Lake Christmas Boat Parade from 7 p.m. -10 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 11. Visitors will be able to see decked out boats float by in cheerful holiday lights.

Franklin Mountains State Park: Take an easy 1.5-mile hike to Agave Loop to celebrate Boxing Day at 9 a.m. Dec. 26. Wear good hiking shoes and bring water and a Santa hat.

Kreische Brewery and Monument Hill State Historic Sites: Stroll among twinkling holiday lights 5:30 p.m.-8 p.m. Dec. 4, 10, 11, 17 and 18. Live entertainment, refreshments, family activities and visits with Santa are planned.

For more information about these and activities to celebrate the holidays at Texas State Parks, visit the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website. A full calendar is available online on the TPWD calendar page. For more activities at THC’s State Historic Sites, visit the Texas Historical Commission website.

Social distancing and wearing a mask when inside buildings or when gathered with others is encouraged.