Passport to Texas

Enjoy the holidays at State Parks and Historic Sites

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You don’t have to travel far to find holiday events in state parks, but Thomas Wilhelm says, if you do have the time, how about a road trip December 16, to Far West Texas and Fort Leaton.

17—For this Christmas, Fort Leaton will be having a Posada, which is the recreation of Mary and Joseph’s trip through Bethlehem. But, there’s also going to be a performance by a local choir; so, it’s going to tell the holiday story with that area of the state’s culture in mind.

Palo Duro Canyon in the Panhandle is another far flung destination. On December 20, it offers a new holiday event worth the drive.

18—It’s called their Hot Air Balloon Glow. So, they’re going to bring balloons into the canyon and light them up. Of course, there’s going to be other traditional holiday events: hot cocoa, snacks – that sort of thing. Santa Claus will be there for the kids. So, it will be a really unique opportunity to not only experience Palo Duro Canyon, but really put a holiday feel to it.

If you prefer to celebrate nature, Central Texas’ McKinney Falls December 20 & 21 is the place to be.

14—They’re doing a Winter Solstice Celebration. So, they’ll have opportunities for kids to join with a ranger and do hikes, or nature themed crafts and activities. So, it’s a great opportunity to touch base with nature during the holidays.

Find a full list of holiday events on the Texas Parks and Wildlife website.

For Texas Parks and Wildlife…I’m Cecilia Nasti

Merry Christmas from Texas State Parks.

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Get close to nature this season at holiday events in state parks, historic sites or natural areas. When I spoke with Thomas Wilhelm, 60 events were on December’s calendar.

06—We keep an updated list on our events calendar, so there’s probably more there now.

Wilhelm works for state parks, and says there’s sure to be a holiday event nearby to help put you in the spirit of the season. If you’re in East Texas or traveling there…

20—Tyler SP is doing their Winter Wonderland Hike [Pineywood Christmas Celebration]. They are inviting people to come in, decorate their campsites, and if you decorate your campsite, you get to stay for free in the park. And then, they’re inviting people to come in and drive through the campsites, or hike through the campsites, and see all the decorated areas. And, if you’re participating in the event, you don’t pay entrance fees to come and check it out.

That’s December 13. Also on the 13th, in Central Texas-ish, Washington-on-the-Brazos, and the Barrington Living History Farm offer special events.

18—The full name of the event is Christmas on the Brazos. The day starts with readings of Christmas stories and literature in the morning. Then, later on in the day they’ll have music, and a variety of vendors selling crafts; a great opportunity to not only get into the Christmas spirit, but also do a little Christmas shopping.

That’s just a taste. Visit passporttotexas.org to find a link to the Christmas in the Parks brochure.

Our Show is funded in part by RAM Trucks…guts..glory..RAM.

For Texas Parks and Wildlife…I’m Cecilia Nasti.

2014 Texas State Park Christmas Ornaments

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In 2002, Texas Parks and Wildlife released its first State Park holiday ornament.

06—Our original ornaments were done in metal; the last three years have been laser engraved wood.

Thomas Wilhelm is with state parks. When the ornaments were gold-plated metal, the agency released one per year that featured several iconic images. Since 2012, they’ve released three ornaments annually; each spotlights only one park. And this year:

20—We’re looking at the state bison herd at Caprock Canyons, Big Bend Ranch, and Independence Hall at Washington-on-the-Brazos. So, you’ll see an iconic image of each park that is featured. The front will have the image very clear, cut out – it also has the date – and then on the reverse side you’ll find a short interpretive message about what’s featured.

The collectible wooden ornaments have a rustic, nostalgic feel to them, and are available now.

21— The best way to get it is to call into our customer service center and just mention that you want to purchase the ornament. They’re sold individually, or by the set. We also have previous years ornaments for sale. I think they make a beautiful collection, and you’re supporting state parks while showing your love for the outdoors and Texas’ natural places.

Find pricing and ordering information about the Texas state park ornament at passporttotexas.org.

For Texas Parks and Wildlife…I’m Cecilia Nasti.

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During the month of December, ornaments are available for purchase over-the-phone by calling the Customer Service Center at 512-389-8900. Limited quantities of previous year’s ornaments are also available for purchase.

2014 Ornaments are $8.95 each, or $19.95 for the set of three. During the month of December, purchase a Texas State Park Gift card valued at $75 or more and receive a FREE 2014 ornament. Tax and shipping fees do apply.

All wooden ornaments measure roughly 3.5 by 4.75 inches, and due to their hand crafted nature, color and contrast will vary slightly so that every ornament is unique.