Things to Do

3 Texas Hill Country Parks That’ll Get You in the Holiday Spirit

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Tony Maples Photography

 

This holiday season, visit Texas Hill Country parks for holiday fun while getting outside in the fresh air. Unlike other parts of the country buried in feet of snow this time of year, Texas enjoys mild, though chilly, weather, making a day at one of these Texas Hill Country parks a refreshing afternoon for the entire family. Put these events on your calendar for December fun for everyone.

Trail of Lights at Monument Hill & Kreische Brewery State Historic Site

The Kreische House decked out for the holidays at Monument Hill and Kreische Brewery State Historic Site

Photo: Facebook/Monument Hill & Kreische Brewery SHS – Texas Parks and Wildlife‎Trail of Lights

Just to the east of the Hill Country near La Grange, check out the Trail of Lights at Monument Hill. This holiday event takes place on December 15 and 16, 2017, from 6 to 8 p.m. It’s an old-fashioned German Christmas complete with Santa and Mrs. Claus and the historic home of German-Texan H.L. Kreische decked out on traditional decorations. This event costs $5 per person ages 13 and up and $1 for children 12 and under, but bring cash or checks because the staff will not accept credit cards.

Decorate the Tree at Colorado Bend State Park

Colorado Bend State Park is one of the Texas Hill Country parks with a holiday celebration

Photo: Facebook/The Rambler

December 16, 2017, at 1 p.m., visit Colorado Bend State Park to help park rangers deck the halls and decorate the Christmas tree. The event takes place in the park amphitheater and kids of all ages can enjoy stringing popcorn garland and hanging decorations on the tree.

Holiday Lighting at Lyndon B. Johnson State Park

LBJ State Park is another of the Texas Hill Country parks with a holiday celebration

Photo: Facebook/LBJ State Park and Historic Site – Texas Parks and Wildlife

For the last 48 years, the holiday lights have been illuminated for the public at LBJ State Park. President Johnson started this tradition, which still stands today. Visit the park on December 17, 2017, from 6 to 9 p.m. Events include a live nativity, carolers, Santa Claus, ornament decorating for kids, and refreshments. Of course, the lighting is the main attraction with the lights on a native cedar tree turning on at 6 p.m. To ensure as many people as possible can enjoy this event, it costs nothing, though holiday donations to the park will be accepted.