While any time is a good time to be in Temple, Texas, the holidays offer an especially welcome retreat this year. With unlimited activities that can be enjoyed from a safe social distance, Temple boasts a climate that shines especially bright. As folks around the country seek refuge from the looming wake of winter, Templeites enjoy 227 days of sunshine and a climate rating of 7.3 out of 10 on Sperling’s BestPlaces Comfort Index. Mild temperatures mixed with ample sun allow residents and visitors alike the opportunity to Meet Temple this holiday season.

Here are a few ideas to kickstart your yuletide merriment:

  • Experience Nature in Lights. Renowned as a “Fort Hood Holiday Tradition,” Nature in Lights boasts a five-and-a-half mile holiday lights attraction at Belton Lake Outdoor Recreation Area (BLORA). Drive through the display in the comfort of your vehicle, or get out to explore Santa’s Village, complete with vendors, crafts, and photos all from a safe social distance. The display runs nightly through January 3, 2021.
  • Visit Santa at the Depot. Keep everyone safe, including Santa, but ensure those wishes get to the North Pole in time! Head to the Santa Fe Depot this Saturday, December 5 to see “Santa at the Depot: Drive-Thru Edition.” Visitors are invited to take in the sights, from holiday displays to a gingerbread exhibit and wave to Santa from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Children may drop their letters to Santa in a special mailbox and will receive a special holiday goodie bag, courtesy of Santa’s elves!
  • Enjoy Temple’s “frozen” parade. Given the uncertainty of the 2020 holiday season, the City of Temple has pivoted to bring the 74th Annual Christmas Parade to the community. This year, spectators are invited to drive-thru a frozen parade of floats and displays on Monday, December 7 from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. in downtown Temple.
  • Adorn a juniper. One of Central Texas’ most unique traditions is socially distanced by nature, and ahem, takes place in nature. Visitors and residents alike take in the abundant beauty of the Juniperus Ashei, the Texas cedar trees that line highways, hills, and valleys across Central Texas. Each year, tinsel and ornaments appear on the trees as though magically deposited there overnight by residents and visitors looking to expand their decorating skills and spread a little holiday cheer. A quick note should you take on this adventure this holiday season: A) No trespassing and B) Don’t Mess with Texas. Remember to return to the decorating scene after the holidays end to reclaim your decorations.

As we relish in a holiday season unlike any before, we invite you to follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for the latest updates from our growing community.