Now that we have landed in the holiday season, we can safely put up our lights and decorations without any concern for scornful looks from bah-hum-bugs… ahem… we mean, neighbors. It’s time to start looking forward to the Christmas season and loading the calendar with events that can only be found in this most joyful time of year. While Llano is a small town bustling with activity year-round, December hosts a number of not-to-be-missed events.
The fun begins on December 1 with a day full of activity. Start the day early at the Reindeer 5K Fun Run and help raise some much-needed money for Meals on Wheels! Entry is $10, and all funds go toward Llano Meals on Wheels. At 9 a.m. at the train depot, runners of all ages will line up and begin an epic 5k run through the streets of Llano. Keep in mind this is a fun run. Costumes and families are encouraged! Bring the kids and get your blood circulating in preparation for shopping and lights later in the day!
Photo: Facebook/Starry Starry Nights in Llano
After celebrating your morning workout and contribution to charity, map out your route for shopping at the Sip & Stroll & Fourth Friday Art Walk in downtown Llano. This will be the perfect opportunity to jump into Christmas shopping for all those deserving friends and loved ones on your list or a child from the Salvation Army Angel Tree. From 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. vendors will be out offering art and gifts of all kinds. Snacks and sips will be available for purchase as well. Downtown will be dressed for the season, making for a delightful walk through the streets. Don’t tucker out quite yet! The December 1 fun is only just beginning.
The Lighting Up Llano event will take place at sunset (6 p.m.). One lucky kiddo, the winner of the annual coloring contest, will get to flip the switch and light up the sky with beautiful lights and colors. Did we mention that Santa will be there? He will arrive via firetruck! After all the oohs and aahs, you will want to stick around for the Christmas Parade that will immediately follow.
The Lighted Christmas Parade, happening from 6-7 pm and hosted by the Chamber of Commerce, will begin at the Senior Center and line up down Berry Street. This will be a parade like none other. Happening just after sundown, the dark night sky will be lit up by thousands of twinkling lights on floats. Dress in your coziest clothes and come experience this once-a-year Christmas showcase.
Photo: Facebook/Starry Starry Nights in Llano
End the night with a movie that everyone should see at least once, but really, yearly: It’s a Wonderful Life. Beginning at 7:30, just after the parade, make your way to the Lantex Theater and watch the movie on the big screen. Here you can warm your hands, but also your heart, with this classic movie that reminds us of the important things in life.
The following week, you won’t want to miss the Llano Snow Day. While snow isn’t a naturally occurring phenomenon during most times of the year in the Hill Country, you might be fooled on December 8 when a snowy scene comes to life. Complete with sleds and rumors of a newly added water feature, families and kids of all ages will want to come experience the colder side of Llano. Wristbands can be purchased for the event happening from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. that day.
Photo: Facebook/Starry Starry Nights in Llano
Should you miss these wonderful events, never fear. Starry, Starry Nights in Llano will be taking place from November 23 until New Year’s Eve. The city and Badu Park will be lit up with lights reflecting off the river in all directions. You might want to make several stops into Llano during this most magical time of the year!
