A Guide to Christmas at the Plaza

The City of Temple is thrilled to unveil a sparkling new event that’s sure to spread holiday cheer and brighten every heart! Christmas at the Plaza is a magical experience that you and your loved ones will eagerly anticipate each year. This delightful celebration kicks off our Holly Jolly festivities, creating a joyous atmosphere filled with laughter and warmth. Get ready for a season of wonder in the City of Temple. Here’s everything you need to know about this free, upcoming event!

Christmas at the Plaza is a special event hosted by the City of Temple that features a festive tree-lighting ceremony and activities for the entire family. This year marks the event's debut in the city, and it is expected to expand and enhance its offerings in the future. The celebration will take place at the Santa Fe Plaza in Downtown Temple. Christmas at the Plaza aims to become a cherished holiday tradition for both locals and visitors of all ages.

Christmas at the Plaza will take place on Saturday, November 30.

The event will run from 3 PM to 8 PM. Starting at 3 PM, visitors can explore the holiday market, enjoy photo opportunities, and spend time with their families as they await the spectacular tree lighting show beginning at 7 PM.

The event takes place at the Santa Fe Plaza, which has ample parking spots and plenty of open space nearby for optimal viewing of the show. The grassy area is closed off to event attendees for the duration of the event as there will be equipment set up. Guests should instead look to view the tree lighting show from the front of the tree.

Get your holiday shopping done right by supporting local businesses and shopping small this season! Join us for a festive celebration featuring unique food and goods vendors, along with handmade crafts and jewelry. Enjoy the sounds of Christmas cheer, as cash exchanges hands and gifts are purchased for all your loved ones. Don’t miss out on this holly jolly event!

3:00 PM - Event Opens

Welcome!

3:00 PM - 5:00 PM - Longhorn Pictures

Capture memories with a photo session featuring a Longhorn.

4:00 PM - 6:00 PM - Reindeer Exhibit

Meet and greet with a reindeer up close.

6:30 PM - Gather at Front of Tree

Please begin gathering in front of the tree as the countdown begins

6:50 PM- Mayor Proclamation

7:00 PM - Tree Lighting Show

A magical moment as we light up the holiday tree!

8:00 PM - Event Ends

Thank you for joining us. We hope to see you again next year!

There are plenty of public parking spaces available around the Santa Fe Plaza and in lots adjacent to it. Be sure to arrive early to get the best parking spots. There is also a parking garage located on S 1st St. For visitors who want covered parking, there are plenty of spaces available inside the garage. While the garage does make for a short walk away from the Santa Fe Plaza, the City of Temple will have directional signage leading event attendees to the plaza.

Bring lawn chairs for a comfortable place to sit and enjoy the tree lighting show. Since cold weather is expected, be sure to bundle up with blankets and jackets to stay warm during the event. Visitors should also bring extra cash, as the downtown district offers numerous restaurants and shopping opportunities. While waiting for the special show at 7 PM, you can explore the local area, including the Holiday Market at Santa Fe Plaza.

Have more questions about Holly Jolly and the festivities happening throughout Temple, visit hollyjollytemple.com!