The almost tangible Christmas magic we feel in childhood doesn’t have to fade as the years go by. When you visit the charming small town of Cleburne, the holiday season looks like something out of a Hallmark movie, complete with old-fashioned traditions such as a tree lighting ceremony and a candlelight historic home tour. There’s a reason Cleburne is one of the best Christmas towns in Texas!
When it comes to experiencing an old-fashioned Christmas, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a town that honors holiday traditions more than Cleburne.
Whistle Stop Christmas
Festivities kick off in late November with the annual Christmas tree lighting, but if you miss it, don’t fret. The entire holiday season is full of events and attractions that bring Christmas cheer to all who attend, from a lighted parade to a holiday gift market and everything in between.
Whistle Stop Christmas
Cleburne’s holiday claim to fame is Whistle Stop Christmas, a time-honored celebrating featuring millions of lights at Hulen Park and all throughout downtown Cleburne.
Whistle Stop Christmas
From Thanksgiving week through the end of the year, visitors can bundle up and marvel at the dazzling displays with a cup of hot cocoa in hand. Children can also enjoy miniature train rides around the park!
Facebook/Whistle Stop Christmas
If you happen to be in town for the parade, stick around afterward to take photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus!
Facebook/Whistle Stop Christmas
There are also several live reenactments to watch, including an outdoor nativity scene after the parade.
Facebook/Whistle Stop Christmas
Another timeless Cleburne tradition is the annual Candlewalk Tour of Historic Homes, which takes place in early December. Turn-of-the-century homes are decked to the nines with elegant décor, and local businesses offer special exhibits and activities to ticketholders. You can also enjoy a driving tour of lighted homes all throughout December!
Whistle Stop Christmas
Mainstay Farm Park is another can’t-miss destination during the holiday season.
Facebook/Mainstay Farm Park
This farm and winery turns into a winter wonderland in December, with cut-your-own Christmas trees, visits with Santa, and tons more activities for the whole family.
Facebook/Mainstay Farm Park
Kids can tell Santa everything they want for Christmas…
Facebook/Mainstay Farm Park
…while adults can sip festive, seasonal drinks such as mulled wine.
Facebook/Mainstay Farm Park
All ages can pose for holiday-themed photo-ops…
Facebook/Mainstay Farm Park
…and delight in decadent holiday treats, including this over-the-top peppermint shake!
Facebook/Mainstay Farm Park
Visit the official Whistle Stop Christmas website or Facebook page for more information about holiday festivities in Cleburne. Also, be sure to check out the website and Facebook page for Mainstay Farm Park.
Whistle Stop Christmas
Facebook/Whistle Stop Christmas
Facebook/Mainstay Farm Park
Have you ever visited Cleburne at Christmastime? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience in the comments section below! Don’t forget to check out our previous article for a magical Christmas road trip that leads straight through Cleburne – and to some other enchanting towns!
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Address: Cleburne, TX, USAAddress: Mainstay Farm, 1004 W Bethesda Rd, Cleburne, TX 76031, USA
