Tired of sitting at home while also feeling like you’re wasting your holiday season?
Try these ideas to kickstart your Texan holiday adventures and memories.
Whether you have a full weekend or just a Saturday afternoon, we’ve rounded up three ways to kickstart your Texas holiday memories—from budget-friendly road trips to the "big splurge" events.
1. The Classic Holiday Road Trip (Piney Woods Edition)
If you want that Hallmark-movie feeling, you need to head East. The towns of Marshall, Jefferson, and Grapevine aren't just decorating; they are transforming. Marshall: The "Wonderland of Lights" opens Nov 26, 2025, with outdoor ice skating and the famous courthouse lights.
Jefferson: Don't miss the "Holiday Trail of Lights" or the Wassail Walk (late Nov/early Dec). Grapevine: Known as the Christmas Capital of Texas, their "Carol of Lights" kicks off Nov 24, 2025. Plan Your Route: If you've never explored these historic towns, check out our guide on the best stops along the way: Why You Should Visit These 10 Texas Towns
2. The "Splurge vs. Save" Debate: Gaylord Texan ICE!
Every year, families ask: "Is the Gaylord Texan ICE! exhibit actually worth the money?" It is a remarkable memory, featuring 2 million pounds of hand-carved ice (this year featuring Elf), but it comes with a price tag (tickets start around $33 for adults and $23 for kids, plus parking).
If you need a lower-budget alternative, you might want to enjoy the free decorations in the Gaylord lobby or the Main Street lights in Grapevine instead. But if you want a full day of indoor fun, you can combine it with other attractions. Make it a Full Weekend: If you're in the area, check out our review of another great Grapevine indoor attraction: Staycation at Legoland Discovery Center in Grapevine
3. The "Warm" Winter Escape (Carthage, Texas)
Let’s be honest—sometimes you just want to escape the biting cold wind without flying to a beach. East Texas towns like Carthage offer at the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame and Footprints in the Sand monument that let people burn energy while staying warm.
Here are some healthy dining options in Carthage.
If you are heading East to escape the chill, you’ll need good food. Here is our itinerary for the best pit stops: Headed to Houston or Chicago? Plan Your Perfect Rest Stop in Carthage, Texas
I hope these ideas will help you take full advantage of these opportunities for maximize every possible benefit of the holiday season.
Sincerely,
Weekends Count Magazine & The Weekends Count Family
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