Experience the Magic of Christmas in College Station: A Holiday Guide

Ready for a Texas-style holiday celebration? College Station is the place to be this season, with events and activities for everyone—from dazzling light shows and family fun to cozy spots for holiday shopping. Whether you’re visiting or a local looking to make new memories, here’s your guide to the best of Christmas in College Station.

Santa’s Wonderland: The Heart of the Holidays

No Christmas trip is complete without a stop at Santa’s Wonderland! Known as the ultimate Texas Christmas experience, this magical wonderland features millions of holiday lights, nightly snow shows and endless activities for all ages. Grab a hot cocoa, hop on the hayride and explore the lighted trails before snapping a pic with Santa himself. Be sure to try the Texas BBQ and warm holiday treats that add a Lone Star twist to your holiday favorites! For a full guide on how to make the most of your experience check out The Ultimate Insiders Guide to Santa's Wonderland.

Holiday Shopping: Find Unique Gifts with Texas Charm

For the trendsetter on your list, Sabi Boutique offers a curated selection of stylish clothing, jewelry and accessories. With holiday specials and festive decor, it’s the perfect spot to find one-of-a-kind gifts with a touch of Texas flair.

Evie & Oak: This chic boutique is a go-to for modern, elegant pieces and beautiful accessories. Evie & Oak’s cozy ambiance and carefully curated inventory make holiday shopping an absolute delight, whether you’re on the hunt for wardrobe essentials or statement pieces.

Aggieland Outfitters: Celebrate the spirit of Texas A&M with Aggieland Outfitters, where you’ll find Aggie-themed gifts, apparel, and decor. Perfect for Aggie fans, their holiday selection is packed with maroon-and-white options that make great gifts for friends, family, or even yourself.

Benjamin Knox Gallery & Wine Bar: For a gift that truly captures the Texas spirit, visit the Benjamin Knox Gallery. Known for its iconic Aggie art and Texas landscapes, the gallery offers prints, paintings, and unique memorabilia. Complete your visit with a glass of wine at the in-house wine bar—making for an elegant, relaxing shopping experience.

Explore these local gems to find gifts that can only be found in College Station. From fashion-forward finds to timeless art, you’ll leave with something special to remember your holiday experience in College Station.

Holiday Markets

This holiday season shop til you drop at Texas A&M Hotels Holly Jolly Holiday Market where you'll find artisanal, handmade, homegrown, vintage and Aggie themed merchandise crafted by dozens of local vendors. Head to Northgate for a lively evening at Howdy Holly-Days of holiday entertainment, local food and festive crafts on December 13. Visit College Station and Century Square are teaming up once again for the annual Holiday Artisan Market on The Green December 20! Enjoy live music while browsing a selection of unique gifts, from handmade soaps to festive holiday décor and more. It’s the perfect spot to find those one-of-a-kind Christmas treasures.

Christmas Classics: Movie Nights at City Hall

Kick off the holiday season in College Station with Christmas Movie Nights on the lawn at City Hall! Enjoy pre-show festive fun for the whole family, featuring food truck vendors, fresh popcorn, hot chocolate/coffee bar, fun games, festive music and engaging kids’ activities. Pre-show festivities will be going on from 5pm-7pm and then be sure to claim your spot on the lawn, grab a fresh bag of popcorn and settle in for the movie to begin at 7:15 pm. Admission is free and complimentary parking is available at City Hall and the Visitors Center surface parking lots.

November 29 The Grinch (2018)- Meet the Grinch and snap a photo
December 5 The Santa Clause (1994)- Get your photo with Santa
December 12 A Christmas Story (1983)
December 20 Elf (2003)

Christmas in the Park

In College Station, Christmas lights are serious business. Drive or stroll through local neighborhoods to see homes decked out in dazzling displays. For a full holiday lights experience, head over to Stephen C. Beachy Central Park for a breathtaking walk-through illuminated paths, perfect for photos and family memories.

Where to Stay: Cozy Christmas Getaways

Make it a holiday getaway by booking your stay at one of College Station’s many hotels are just minutes away from College Station’s top holiday attractions! These spots offer exclusive holiday deals, festive decor and cozy vibes that’ll make you feel right at home.

Whether you’re here for the light displays, the music, or the Texas-style cheer, College Station brings the magic of the season to life. So gather your family and friends, and get ready for a holiday experience full of warmth, wonder and unforgettable moments.

Live at Rudder!

The New York Tenors: A Christmas Celebration with Orchestra
Nov 18, 7:30 pm
Experience the magic of Christmas in The Big Apple with Andy Cooney, Daniel Rodriguez and Christopher Macchio as they deliver powerful vocals and timeless New York classics direct from Carnegie Hall.

VOCTAVE: It Feels Like Christmas
Dec 1, 7:30 pm
With soaring harmonies on favorites like “We Need a Little Christmas,” “The Man with the Bag” and “The Christmas Song,” this family-friendly a cappella concert is sure to warm hearts and spread holiday cheer.

The Nutcracker Presented by Brazos Ballet
Dec 5 & 6, 7-9 pm
A holiday tradition since 2012, The Nutcracker returns to enchant audiences with a cast of professional guest artists, including stars from the New York City Ballet, alongside rising talent from across Texas and pre-professional dancers from the Brazos Valley. For its 14th anniversary season, Ballet Brazos is proud to feature live music performed by the Brazos Valley Symphony Orchestra, adding a new dimension of magic to Tchaikovsky’s beloved score.

Tickets available at boxoffice.tamu.edu