With families getting together for Christmas gatherings, East Texas offers up a variety of things for them to do when they're all together! From driving around area neighborhoods looking at Christmas lights and yard decorations, to drive thru Christmas light parks, Christmas movies showing downtown, parades and more there's something for every family.

Each year downtown Marshall is transformed into the Wonderland Of Lights! The Harrison County Courthouse in downtown Marshall is covered with thousands of steady and twinkling lights as the surrounding area is changed into a winter wonderland. This marks the 31st year of the celebration that continues with the tradition of light displays, horse drawn carriage rides, carousel rides, outdoor ice skating rink, live music and choral groups on the entertainment stage each night and so much more. Santa's Village is a special place for kids to meet up with the guy and offer him a few suggestions as to whats on their wish list! There will be an outdoor Christmas market on select weekends and so much more. Visit MarshallTexas.net for more event details.

North of Marshall on Hwy. 59, the city of Jefferson will be celebrating with Christmas On The Bayou. This little town will definitely put you in the Christmas spirit with Wassail Walk Saturday, happening Saturday, December 2nd. Area merchants will offer up for tasting their finest Wassail recipes. You can also take a tour of some of the most historic homes within the state on the Candlelight Tour of Homes on select weekends and times.

If you're traveling this Christmas to the Dallas-Ft. Worth area, Austin, San Antonio or the Gulf Coast, Wide Open Country has listed many activities that you can suggest your family to take part in while you're visiting them for Christmas!

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