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Dec 24, 2024. Home / United States / Education
Livingston, Texas, nestled in the heart of East Texas, becomes a gateway to holiday magic during the Christmas season. This charming town and its nearby communities transform into vibrant destinations filled with sparkling lights, festive events, and enchanting experiences. If you're searching for the perfect Christmas getaway near Livingston, look no further. Here's a guide to the most delightful Christmas towns and activities to enjoy this season.
Below are the beautiful towns near Livingston that you can explore during your vacation:
1. Livingston’s Hometown Christmas
The holiday spirit begins right in Livingston itself, with its warm and welcoming Hometown Christmas celebration. Downtown Livingston comes alive with dazzling lights, festive decorations, and a sense of community joy. Highlights include a traditional Christmas parade, visits with Santa Claus, and the lighting of the town’s Christmas tree. This event offers a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in holiday cheer while supporting local businesses.
For families, the Livingston Christmas Tree Farm provides a magical outing. Wander through rows of evergreens to find the perfect Christmas tree, then enjoy holiday crafts and activities on-site. This wholesome experience brings the beauty of nature together with the excitement of the season, making it a must-visit for locals and visitors alike.
2. Grapevine - The Christmas Capital of Texas
Although a bit of a drive from Livingston, Grapevine is a destination that cannot be overlooked during the holidays. Dubbed the “Christmas Capital of Texas,” this vibrant town offers over 1,400 Christmas-themed events throughout the season. Walk through a wonderland of twinkling lights, marvel at elaborate decorations, and take part in family-friendly attractions.
One of Grapevine’s signature events is the North Pole Express, where children can enjoy cookies and hot chocolate while taking a magical train ride to meet Santa himself. Meanwhile, the Gaylord Texan Resort adds to the holiday splendor with its larger-than-life ice sculptures, snow tubing, and ice skating. Whether you're looking for festive entertainment or immersive holiday fun, Grapevine delivers in abundance.
3. Nacogdoches - A Historic Holiday Delight
About two hours north of Livingston, Nacogdoches offers a charming and historic take on Christmas. As the oldest town in Texas, it provides a picturesque setting for holiday celebrations. Stroll through the quaint downtown area, where streets are adorned with sparkling lights and festive decorations.
Nacogdoches’ holiday season includes lighted parades, caroling, and unique holiday markets featuring local artisans and crafters. The historic backdrop of the town adds a nostalgic touch, making it a serene and heartwarming Christmas destination.
4. College Station - Santa’s Wonderland
For a larger-than-life Christmas adventure, College Station’s Santa’s Wonderland is an unparalleled experience. This festive attraction features millions of sparkling lights, larger-than-life displays, and a range of activities for all ages. Hop on a hayride to explore the light displays, glide across the ice-skating rink, or enjoy live holiday music performances.
Children will love meeting Santa and Mrs. Claus, while adults can sip on hot cocoa or shop for unique gifts at the Wonderland’s holiday market. The combination of traditional charm and modern attractions makes this destination a family favorite and a perfect day trip from Livingston.
5. Galveston’s Moody Gardens Festival of Lights
For a coastal twist on Christmas, make your way to Galveston’s Moody Gardens. The annual Festival of Lights offers an extraordinary experience, featuring over two million lights, illuminated sculptures, and holiday-themed exhibits. Enjoy train rides, an outdoor ice-skating rink, and live entertainment, all set against the backdrop of the Gulf Coast.
This unique destination blends beachside beauty with holiday magic, making it well worth the trip. Children and adults alike will appreciate the variety of attractions, from the aquarium pyramid to the 4D holiday movie experience.
6. Jefferson - A Dickens Christmas Experience
Known for its Victorian charm, Jefferson transforms into a Dickens-inspired Christmas wonderland each year. Located just a short drive from Livingston, this historic town offers horse-drawn carriage rides, costumed carolers, and festive holiday markets. The highlight of the season is the “Candlelight Tour of Homes,” where visitors can explore beautifully decorated historic homes, adding a touch of elegance to the holiday season.
1. Plan Ahead: Many holiday events require tickets or reservations, especially for popular attractions like Santa’s Wonderland and the North Pole Express.
2. Stay Local: Consider combining visits to nearby towns with Livingston’s own holiday events for a well-rounded experience.
3. Bring the Family: Most destinations offer kid-friendly activities such as crafts, petting zoos, and photos with Santa, making them perfect for family outings.
Whether you’re staying close to home or venturing a little farther afield, the Christmas season near Livingston offers countless opportunities to create lasting memories. These destinations will fill your holidays with joy and wonder, from festive light displays to cozy small-town celebrations.
Book a stay at The Angler Hotel if you plan to visit Livingston, TX. Explore the beautiful Christmas towns and markets in the town and enjoy a comfortable stay at one of the most luxury hotels in Livingston, TX.
1. What are some must-visit Christmas towns near Livingston, TX?
Livingston’s Hometown Christmas, Nacogdoches, and Santa’s Wonderland in College Station are great options.
2. Where can I stay in Livingston, TX, for a luxury experience?
The Angler Hotel offers one of the most luxurious stays in Livingston, TX.
3. What Christmas activities can families enjoy near Livingston, TX?
Families can enjoy holiday parades, tree farms, light displays, and visits with Santa in and around Livingston, TX.