By Kelli Nesbitt, Parks & Recreation Marketing Coordinator
From sparkling lights and holiday movies to fun runs and festive markets, College Station’s holiday events have something for everyone this season. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly activities, ways to enjoy the outdoors, or moments to make memories with friends and family, our holiday event calendar is full of cheer.
All the events are free, except for the Jingle Bell Fun Run.
Here’s a look at the festive schedule:
Christmas in the Park: Lights On
Nov. 27-Jan. 1 • 6–11 p.m. • Beachy Central Park
Marvel at more than 1 million Christmas lights. Stroll or drive through the dazzling display while listening to holiday music on Willy 97.7 FM and drop off your wish list in Santa’s North Pole Mailbox. Admission is free.
Christmas Classics at City Hall: “The Grinch” (2018)
Saturday, Nov. 29 • 5–10 p.m. • College Station City Hall
Kick off the holiday season with a classic movie on the lawn under the stars. Pre-show activities include photos with the Grinch, food vendors, fresh popcorn, hot chocolate bar, games, festive music, and children’s activities. Admission is free.
Christmas Classics at City Hall: “The Santa Clause” (1994)
Friday, Dec. 5 • 5–10 p.m. • College Station City Hall
Catch this holiday favorite on the lawn while enjoying pre-show fun, including photos with Santa, food vendors, fresh popcorn, hot chocolate, games, festive music, and children’s activities. Admission is free.
Breakfast with Blue Santa
Saturday, Dec. 6 • 8–10 a.m. • College Station Police Department
Enjoy donuts, milk, and juice, take photos with Santa, and let the kids have fun in bounce houses. Children 12 and under will receive a wrapped gift (one per child, while supplies last). Admission is free.
Jingle Bell Fun Run
Saturday, Dec. 6 • 3 p.m. • Post Oak Mall to Beachy Central Park
Take part in the untimed 1.5-mile run before the College Station Christmas Parade. The run finishes at Christmas in the Park. Walkers, runners, and strollers are welcome. Registration is required, and a fee applies.
College Station Christmas Parade
Saturday, Dec. 6 • 4 p.m. • Post Oak Mall to Beachy Central Park
Celebrate the season with decorated floats, cheerful music, and the spirit of Christmas in Aggieland. Admission is free.
Christmas in the Park: Event
Saturday, Dec. 6 • 6–10 p.m. • Beachy Central Park
Enjoy hayrides, cookies, hot cocoa, live entertainment, an ice sculpture performance, and photos with Santa. Admission is free.
Christmas Classics at City Hall: “A Christmas Story” (1983)
Friday, Dec. 12 • 5–10 p.m. • College Station City Hall
Watch this holiday favorite on the lawn and enjoy pre-show activities, including food vendors, fresh popcorn, hot chocolate, games, festive music, and children’s activities. Admission is free.
Holiday Party (ages 55+)
Friday, Dec. 12 • 5:30–8:30 p.m. • Lincoln Recreation Center
Adults 55 and older are invited to wear casual Christmas attire and enjoy an evening of music, door prizes, and light refreshments. Admission is free.
Howdy Holly-Days
Saturday, Dec. 13 • 4–8 p.m. • Northgate
Shop from more than 50 vendors, enjoy live entertainment and train rides, stroll down Candy Cane Lane, and take photos with Santa at the Dixie Chicken. Admission is free.
Jingle Bell Ride
Saturday, Dec. 13 • 5 p.m. • Beachy Central Park
Pedal through sparkling Christmas light displays and scenic parks. Registration and a signed participation waiver are required. Admission is free.
Holiday Artisan Market
Saturday, Dec. 20 • 11 a.m.–3 p.m. • Century Square
Browse local vendors while enjoying live music, perfect for last-minute holiday gifts. Admission is free.
Christmas Classics at City Hall: “Elf” (2003)
Saturday, Dec. 20 • 5–10 p.m. • College Station City Hall
End the week with this holiday favorite on the lawn. Pre-show activities include food vendors, fresh popcorn, hot chocolate and coffee bar, games, festive music, and children’s activities. Admission is free.
We hope you join the fun and experience the magic of the holidays across College Station.
For more information, visit cstx.gov/CSchristmas.
About the Blogger
Kelli Nesbitt has served the Parks & Recreation Department for 19 years, including 12 years as marketing coordinator. She also served 1.5 years as the marketing and community engagement specialist for the City of Bryan from 2023-25. A Bryan native, Nesbitt earned a bachelor’s degree in health & kinesiology from Sam Houston State.
If you liked this post, share it with the buttons below!
Leave a Reply