Celebrate the Holiday Season Outside at a Texas State Park
Nov. 21, 2025
Media Contact: TPWD News, Business Hours, 512-389-8030
AUSTIN – Falling leaves, chilly weather and migratory birds heading south mark the beginning of the holiday season in Texas. Starting this weekend, come enjoy a suite of different seasonal activities hosted by Texas State Parks for visitors of all ages, ranging from Thanksgiving potlucks to themed guided walks, crafting events and more.
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) highly encourages anyone planning a trip to a Texas State Park to reserve a day pass in advance since some parks are expected to reach their capacity limit. Reserve day passes online or over the phone by calling (512) 389-8900.
For more information about all holiday activities at Texas State Parks and TPWD sites, visit the TPWD calendar page or Holidays in the Parks page.
November
Ready, set…gobble! Get your running shoes ready for Lockhart State Park’s Chisholm Trail Turkey Trot. Starting at 9 a.m. on Nov. 22, join walkers and runners of all speeds, along with canine companions, for a 1-mile or 5K run/walk to celebrate fall in the park. Visitors should plan to check in at the park between 7:00 – 8:45 a.m. on race day.
Arrive hungry and join park staff at Garner State Park from 12:15 – 2:30 p.m. on Nov. 27 for their own version of a Thanksgiving potluck feast at the Garner Parksgiving event, celebrating all things to be thankful for. Those planning to attend the event will need to provide a cooked dish to share with fellow attendees.
If you’re opting to be outside on Black Friday rather than at a store, wanting to walk off those Thanksgiving calories or just enjoy the cooler weather, multiple state parks will have events and activities happening Nov. 28, including Galveston Island State Park’s Opt Outside Kayak Tour around Galveston Bay from noon – 2:30 p.m.
Kick back, stay cozy and celebrate the holiday season with a family-friendly movie on the big screen at Eisenhower State Park for a Drive-in Movie Night event from 6–7 p.m. on Nov. 29. Visitors will meet at the group pavilion and should dress for the weather and bring a chair or blanket.
December
Get in the holiday spirit with Lake Corpus Christi State Park’s 6th Annual Holiday Light Drive-Thru. From 6–9 p.m. on Dec. 6, visitors can enter the park for a drive-through of the illuminated areas of the park. This event is free for visitors who arrive between 6–9 p.m. and participate only in the drive-through event.
Party down state parks-style at Huntsville State Park for its Christmas Party at Raven Lodge. From 5–7 p.m. on Dec. 6., visitors can expect an eventful holiday-themed evening decorating ornaments and the lodge. This event is free and accessible to the public.
Experience the holiday traditions of the borderlands at Fort Leaton State Historic Site’s annual traditional Mexican Posada event from 6–8 p.m. on Dec. 13. Over 1,000 candles will illuminate the historic fort, with staff offering guided tours. Afterward, visitors can enjoy traditional holiday drinks, snacks, pinatas and mariachi.
Join park staff this holiday season at Tyler State Park from 5–10 p.m. on Dec. 13 for a festive celebration of lights, ranger story time, crafting, stargazing and more. Entrance to the event is free, but attendees are encouraged to bring nonperishable food items for a food drive supporting the East Texas Food Bank.
Get a glimpse into Christmas life of the 1800s at Fort Richardson State Park & Historic Site. From 5–7 p.m. on Dec. 13, The Ghosts of Christmas Past event will walk visitors back in time to observe the fort and the “ghosts” of cavalry soldiers and their families as they celebrate Christmas from the 1870s. Visitors will meet at the historic fort and should plan to bring drinking water and a jacket for chilly weather.
Get creative and inspired by the beauty of nature at Blanco State Park’s Watercolors on the Blanco: Holiday Card Edition event from 2–3:30 p.m. on Dec. 20. This fun and relaxing event is perfect for experienced artists and beginners and lets visitors create custom holiday cards to send to friends and family or to keep as keepsakes.
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