7 Best Things to do for Christmas in Nacogdoches, Texas

Published By Ketki

Last Updated

If you’re looking for a traditional small-town Christmas this holiday season, look no further than Nacogdoches, Texas.

Nacogdoches is the oldest town in Texas and is known for its beautiful piney woods and friendly people.

During the holidays, the town comes alive with holiday spirit, and there’s no shortage of things to do.

Also Read: 24 Best Places to Enjoy Christmas in Texas

Christmas decor in downtown Nacogdoches Texas
Christmas decor in downtown Nacogdoches Texas

Best Things to do for Christmas in Nacogdoches

From attending the annual Lighting of the Square ceremony….

….to browsing local shops for unique gifts, visitors to Nacogdoches are sure to have a merry Christmas!

Here are our favorite things to do in Nacogdoches, Texas for Christmas.

Also Read: 14 Best Things to do in Nacogdoches, Texas

Historic buildings in Nacogdoches look very pretty in the holiday season
Historic buildings in Nacogdoches look very pretty in the holiday season

Attend the Nine Flags Christmas Festival

Did you know that while six flags have flown over the Lone Star State, nine flags have flown over its oldest small town?

Charles Bright Visitor Center in Nacogdoches Texas
Charles Bright Visitor Center in Nacogdoches Texas

Nacogdoches celebrates this unique history with the annual Nine Flags Christmas Festival.

The festival features a holiday market, live entertainment, food trucks, fun family activities, and more.

This year the Nine Flags Festival will take place on December 3, 2022.

Nacogdoches City Hall flying the Nine Flags at Christmas
Nacogdoches City Hall flying the Nine Flags at Christmas

Enjoy the Lighted Christmas Parade

The Lighted Christmas Parade is one of the most popular holiday events in Nacogdoches.

The parade features floats decorated with lights and holiday themes, as well as marching bands and other performers.

Christmas vibes in the window boxes of downtown Nacogdoches
Christmas vibes in the window boxes of downtown Nacogdoches

After the parade, stick around for the beautiful fireworks show.

This year’s parade will take place on December 3, 2022, at 6:30 PM and has the theme Christmas through the Decades.

Make sure to follow the happenings on Facebook to know about any changes.

Main Street murals decked in holiday decor
Main Street murals decked in holiday decor

Attend the annual Jingle Bell Run

One of the most popular events in Nacogdoches during Christmastime is the annual Jingle Bell Run.

This annual event takes place on the Saturday after Thanksgiving and benefits the Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce.

The Jingle Bell Run is a 5K race through downtown Nacogdoches brick streets, and participants are encouraged to dress up in their holiday best.

Holiday decor near the Nacogdoches Visitor Center
Holiday decor near the Nacogdoches Visitor Center

Browse the shops on the Historic Downtown Nacogdoches Walking Tour

Nacogdoches is home to a charming downtown area with a variety of unique shops.

During the holidays, many of these shops offer special sales and holiday decorations.

Shop for unique gifts at local stores in Nacogdoches
Shop for unique gifts at local stores in Nacogdoches

From handcrafted jewelry to made-in-Texas foods, you’re sure to find something for everyone on your list.

And if you need a break from shopping, stop by one of the many cafes or restaurants for a cup of hot cocoa or a slice of pie.

The stores have charming Christmas decor on display
The stores have charming Christmas decor on display

Buy unique gifts at the Holiday in the Pines market

Another great place to find unique gifts is the Holiday in the Pines market.

Held annually on the second Saturday in December, this market features over 150 vendors selling everything from Christmas decorations to handmade gifts.

There’s also live music, food trucks, and Santa Claus himself!

It’s the perfect place to do your Christmas shopping and get into the holiday spirit.

Christmas in Nacogdoches is an amazing experience
Christmas in Nacogdoches is an amazing experience

Participate in the Wassail Fest

The Wassail Fest is a holiday tradition in Nacogdoches.

Held annually, this event celebrates wassail, a hot cider drink traditionally made with apples, spices, and wine.

During the Wassail Fest, local businesses compete to make the best wassail, and visitors can vote for their favorite.

Wassail Walk is a perfect time to shop local and sip wassail
Wassail Walk is a perfect time to shop local and sip wassail

Celebrate an Old Fashioned Christmas at Millard’s Crossing

If you’re looking for a truly unique Christmas experience, then be sure to check out Millard’s Crossing Historic Village.

This living history museum is decked out in its holiday best during December.

Nacogdoches is a great place to visit for Christmas in Texas
Nacogdoches is a great place to visit for Christmas in Texas

You can take a step back in time as you stroll through the village and admire all of the beautiful decorations.

You can even take a horse-drawn carriage ride around town or go on a hayride!

There are also plenty of festive activities for kids, so it’s a great way to make some cherished family memories this holiday season.

Kids love seeing the variety of holiday decor and lights on display in the Oldest Town in Texas
Kids love seeing the variety of holiday decor and lights on display in the Oldest Town in Texas

Also Read: 10 Best Things to do for Christmas in Jefferson, Texas

Nacogdoches is the perfect place to spend your Christmas vacation.

You can enjoy a traditional small-town Texas experience complete with twinkling lights and merry carolers.

With ample things to do and see, you’re sure to have a merry Christmas in Nacogdoches!

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