The One Texas Town That Transforms Into A Christmas Wonderland Each Year
By Katie Lawrence|Published November 17, 2018
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
The saying “everything is bigger in Texas” definitely includes the holidays. One tiny East Texas town is a perfect example of how we go all out at Christmastime, with parades, lights, an old-fashioned carousel, and even a giant ice-skating rink. Here’s a glimpse of the holiday cheer awaiting you in Marshall:
Festivities kick off on Wednesday, November 21 at 6 p.m. sharp. With one flip of a switch, the historic Harrison County Courthouse will be illuminated by millions of white lights and commence the most wonderful time of year.
Horse-drawn carriages and trains take passengers on a tour of downtown, passing numerous charming shops and restaurants. Every downtown business is decked out for the season, so prepare to be absolutely enchanted!
Saturday, November 24 is the fourth annual Wassail Walk. Sample the Norwegian holiday drink from various merchants, then rank their recipes to determine who wins the coveted People's Choice Award.
When Saturday, December 1 rolls around, it's time for the Lighted Christmas Parade. This year's theme is candy, so expect to see hundreds of folks sporting their sweetest attire for a night of music, dancing, and all-around celebration.
The very next day is Tigers on Ice, where East Texas Baptist University's hockey team plays a light scrimmage game. Regular hours for the ice rink resume on Tuesday, with a $10 fee per person.
Shop for festive decor, stocking stuffers, and plenty of other unique bits and bobs at the outdoor market on Saturday, December 8. Vendors have been waiting all year to showcase their homemade wares!
Kids from one to ninety-two will delight at Santa's Village, a collection of tiny homes with a free activity inside each one. Decorate cookies, do arts + crafts, and meet some of the North Pole's most famous residents!
Of course the big man in red is here to make everyone's Christmas wishes come true. Let the kids sit on his lap and whisper what they want most, then take a photo you'll cherish for years to come.
A vintage 1948 Herschel carousel is set up right in front of the courthouse, beautifully adorned with lights. You're never too old to take a ride and reminisce on childhood memories.
It wouldn't be Christmas without a little window shopping, right? The magic of New York City has been transported right here to East Texas, and you'll walk down these twinkling streets with the innocent joy of a toddler.
Click here for more information about all the festivities.
Have you ever been to Marshall during the holiday season? What’s your favorite town in Texas to visit at Christmastime? Here are some of our favorites.
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