The holiday season is right around the corner here in the heart of the Texas Hill Country — and we at Hill Country Premier Lodging are thrilled to help you make the most of it! Whether you’re planning a cozy getaway this December or beginning to think ahead to a 2026 Hill Country escape, we’ve got you covered with local happenings, festive events, and our top-notch service to ensure your vacation is stress-free and memorable.
Holiday Events You Won’t Want to Miss
1. Wishes for Wimberley Lighted Parade & Toy Drive
HCPL is proud to support our hometown and thrilled to be participating in this event!
Line the streets for a festive lighted parade featuring floats, marching bands, classic cars and the big arrival of Santa’s sleigh. After the parade, join the community toy drive and head to the Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Christmas Courtyard for hot cocoa, carolers and that Hometown Holidays magic.
- Date: Saturday, November 29, 2025 at 6:00 PM
- Location: Downtown Wimberley Square / Christmas Courtyard, Wimberley, TX
- Cost: FREE (toy donations encouraged)
2. EmilyAnn Trail of Lights at EmilyAnn Theatre & Gardens
Stroll through approximately 8 acres of dazzling light-displays, enjoy live entertainment, meet Santa and sip hot chocolate under the stars. Admission is free; donations appreciated.
- Dates: November 29 – December 26, 2025
- Times:
- Dusk to 9:00 PM on Sun–Thu;
- Dusk to 10:00 PM on Fri–Sat and select evenings
- Location: 1101 FM 2325, Wimberley, TX 78676
- Cost: FREE (donations gratefully accepted)
3. Additional “Hometown Holidays” Events in Wimberley
Here are a few more ways to soak up that holiday spirit:
- Holiday Bazaar & Photos with Buddy the Elf – Sat, Nov 29, 2025: 10:00 AM–4:00 PM Vendor market + 2:00–5:00 PM photo ops with Buddy the Elf at Christmas Courtyard
- Downtown Cup of Cheer & Santa Pub Crawl – Sat, Dec 13, 2025: Evening stroll, shopping, live music, and a festive pub crawl (for the grown-ups in the group)
Check out all Wimberley Events by Date:
3. PEC Holiday Lights Display – Johnson City
Experience one of the Hill Country’s most beloved holiday traditions at the PEC Holiday Lights Display in Johnson City! Part of the larger Lights Spectacular celebration, this world-famous event transforms the PEC headquarters into a glowing winter wonderland. Wander beneath majestic oak trees wrapped in over 1.6 million sparkling LED lights and enjoy a truly magical evening in the heart of the Texas Hill Country. Families, couples, and even well-behaved pups are all welcome to share in the joy!
- Dates: November 28, 2025 – January 4, 2026
- Times: 6:00 PM – Midnight (lights on nightly)
- Location: PEC Headquarters, 201 S. Ave. F, Johnson City, TX 78636
- Cost: FREE (donations suggested to the Power of Change for PEC’s community giving)
- Questions: pecsocial@peci.com
- Learn More: myPEC.com/change
4. Dripping Springs Tree Lighting Ceremony
Kick off the holiday season with the City of Dripping Springs at the Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony! This festive evening at Veterans Memorial Park features live holiday performances, carols, and plenty of cheer as the community gathers to watch the official lighting of the beloved Dripping Springs Christmas tree. Afterward, stay for a free outdoor screening of “The Muppet Christmas Carol”—a heartwarming way to end the night with family and friends.
- Date: Saturday, November 29, 2025
- Time: Dusk
- Location: Veterans Memorial Park, Downtown Dripping Springs
- Activities:
- Official Tree Lighting Ceremony
- Live Holiday Performances
- Free Outdoor Movie: The Muppet Christmas Carol
- Cost: FREE
5. Christmas on Mercer Street – Dripping Springs
Celebrate the season with Christmas on Mercer Street, one of the Hill Country’s most popular family-friendly holiday festivals! Historic Mercer Street comes alive with local vendor booths, music, food, and fun for all ages. Enjoy shopping for unique gifts, snapping photos in a giant snow globe, pony and train rides for the kids, and a special Santa arrival at 10:00 AM by fire truck!
- Date: Saturday, December 6, 2025
- Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Location: Historic Mercer Street, Downtown Dripping Springs
- Activities:
- Local Vendor Booths & Holiday Shopping
- Live Music & Entertainment
- Pony & Train Rides
- Santa’s Fire Truck Arrival at 10:00 AM
- Cost: FREE
Why Stay With Hill Country Premier Lodging?
When you book your vacation rental with us, you’re partnering with more than just a place to stay — you’re getting a full local team committed to making your trip special. Here’s what makes us stand out:
- Premium vacation rentals: From cozy cabins nestled among the trees to spacious homes perfect for family gatherings, each of our properties is chosen for comfort, location and that unmistakable Hill Country charm.
- Local expertise: Our team knows the Wimberley and Hill Country scene inside and out — the best restaurants, hidden scenic spots, emergency contacts, and local event calendars.
- Planning ahead for 2026: The holiday rush fills up fast! Lock in your 2026 getaway now and enjoy peace of mind knowing your dates, property and amenities are secured.
- Full-service support: Whether you need help arranging grocery delivery, booking local tours, swapping linens, or planning a special surprise for your group — our team is on it.
Planning Tips for Your Hill Country Holiday Trip
- Book early: Holiday weekends and popular local events like the Parade and Trail of Lights draw visitors from across Texas. Homes that fit larger groups go quickly.
- Consider arrival times: For events like the Parade & Tree Lighting on Nov 29, arrive early to snag a good viewing spot downtown.
- Dress for comfort: Even in Texas, evenings in the Hill Country can get crisp. Pack layers and comfy walking shoes for the Trail of Lights.
- Explore beyond the events: While you’re here, plan time for nature walks, creek stops, local wineries or hot cider at a downtown café.
- Stay in our homes: After a day of festivities, come back to a rental where you can relax by a fire-pit, enjoy your fully-equipped kitchen or cozy up with a holiday movie.
Ready to Book Your Getaway?
Whether you’re looking for a December 2025 escape or laying the groundwork for a 2026 Hill Country retreat, our team at Hill Country Premier Lodging is ready to help. Start browsing today and let us match you with the perfect rental, help you plan your itinerary, and ensure your holiday in Wimberley is one you’ll never forget.
Because in the Hill Country — with twinkling lights, crisp evenings, and that warm-town charm — holiday magic really happens. We can’t wait to welcome you!
