We’re big on tradition here in Texas. Our roots run deep and we aren’t afraid to embrace them during the holiday season. Although we develop customs within our own families, there are several statewide Christmas traditions that most of us adhere to (or at least know someone who does). Here are just 11 of the best Texas Christmas traditions.

1. Picking your own tree (pine or cedar, of course)
Flickr/stefansager
My mom grew up in Kirbyville, and her family used to cut down their own pine tree from the nearby forest. That's how real Texans do it, y'all.
2. Planting poinsettias
Flickr/lfl
This tradition might have come from Mexico, but these Christmas flowers can be found outside plenty of homes in Texas during the holiday season.
3. Hanging barbed wire wreaths
Flickr/rustiqueart
Everyone else can keep their lush green wreaths studded with ribbon and pine cones. We'll keep repping our cowboy roots.
4. Fruitcake
Flickr/mbietz
Even though most of the country despises this holiday treat, it's an age-old tradition here. Cooks on the frontier used to spend days drying out fruit to the perfect consistency for the hardworking cowboys to enjoy after a hard day's work.
5. Excess
Flickr/danielray
The saying, "Everything's bigger in Texas" definitely applies to Christmas. We have to have the most lights, the biggest celebrations, the most grandiose parades, and gluttonous amounts of food - and we wouldn't change any of it for the world.

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6. Tamales
Flickr/bigrickstuart
Some people have a Thanksgiving do-over during Christmastime, but we like to do things a little different. Tamales didn't originate in Texas, but we're more than happy to adopt the tradition.
7. Luminarias
Flickr/azdodsons
These elegant Christmas lanterns are also a Mexican custom that we've made our own over the years. Seeing them practically floating in the night is a magical sight indeed.
8. Smoked turkey
Flickr/bbqjunkie
We BBQ-obsessed Texans can't give up our kryptonite for even a day. You'll find smoked meat of some sort on all of our holiday tables.
9. Visiting the River Walk
Flickr/brianmoranhdr
It's not Christmas in Texas without a stroll down the most decorated street in the state: the San Antonio River Walk. The already vibrant Mexican culture of the town comes alive even more during the holiday season, and the trees adorned with lights from head to toe are sure to put you in the Christmas spirit.
10. Watching football
Flickr/john varghese
When Christmas falls on a Sunday, you bet your bottom dollar that most Texans will be parked in front of the TV to watch the game. And if it's not on a Sunday, we're probably watching highlights from the last game.
11. Fried turkey
Flickr/Patsy
Our Cajun roots definitely shine through with this traditional dish. There's nothing quite like biting into the crunchy outer skin of the bird that gives way to its tender, juicy meat.

How many of these Christmas traditions in Texas does your family practice? Are there any major Christmas customs in Texas that I left off? Let us know in the comments!

If you are searching for another Christmas tradition in Texas that the entire family will enjoy, take a road trip to the best Christmas lights in the state. Check out this itinerary to help you get started.

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Texas Christmas Traditions

Courtnie Erickson | November 04, 2022

What is one of the most popular Christmas traditions in Texas?

As you can tell from the list above, there are all types of Texas Christmas traditions. However, one of our favorites is to gather the family, hop in the car, and experience one of the state’s best Christmas lights displays. There are spectacular light shows all around the state that are sure to put you in the holiday spirit. For example, you can always head to the Houston Zoo during the month of December and celebrate the season with Zoo Lights. Enjoy the twinkling lights and even see some animals on your way.

There are also many drive-thru Christmas light displays that are sure to bring the magic of the season. While there are many displays located all around the Lone Star State, we’ve put together a list to help you narrow down your options. Let us know which drive-thru light display in Texas you enjoy most and if there are any you would highly recommend.

What are some of the best Christmas towns in Texas?

Texas sure knows how to celebrate Christmas! There are towns big and small that will help you get into the holiday spirit, even if there isn’t a winter wonderland outside your door. Some of our favorite Christmas towns in Texas to visit include Galveston, Jefferson, and Cleburne. Marshall also hosts all types of festive events in December that will help you celebrate the holiday season all month long.

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