Marshall, Texas- The City of Marshall and the Marshall Downtown Development Corporation are gearing up for the 29th annual Wonderland of Lights. Historic downtown Marshall will once again be transformed into a winter wonderland. This year’s event will kick off on Wednesday, November 25th at 5:30 p.m. when Santa Claus arrives downtown in a sleigh provided by Cowboy Carriage Company via the T&P Railroad. “We are looking forward to another successful year of Wonderland,” Tourism & Promotions Director Sarah O’Brien said. “Marshall is known around the country for the wonderful holiday festivities associated with Wonderland, and this year will not disappoint.” Wonderland of Lights will run November 25 through December 31, Tuesday- Sunday from 5 to 9 p.m. nightly. Wonderland of Lights is closed Christmas eve.
Once again the Harrison County Courthouse will be the shining star of the festival, adorned with thousands of white lights and attendees will be able to step back in time and rediscover the spirit of Christmas. New to this year’s Wonderland of Lights festival will be train rides and carousel rides for the children on the downtown square. As always, attendees will be able to enjoy carriage rides, outdoor ice skating, children’s activities at Santa’s Workshop and live entertainment. “We have some exciting holiday performers already lined up, including Airheart,” O’Brien said. Attendees can expect to hear live music Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings on Telegraph Stage, in the heart of downtown across from the 1900 J. Riely Gordon Courthouse.
Other exciting activities include the Lion’s Club Lighted Christmas Parade slated for December 5th at 6 p.m., Good Shepherd Medical Center’s Fun Run at 8:30 a.m. on December 5th, 2nd Saturday Car Show on December 13th. Several new special events will be added to this year’s lineup as well: Historic Downtown Marshall merchants are making plans to celebrate American Express’ Small Business Saturday, the Saturday after Thanksgiving with the inaugural Wassail Fest. Attendees will have the opportunity to peruse downtown businesses while sampling Wassail, a traditional apple cider. Merchants will be vying for the title of Wassail Fest champion voted on by the general public. “Wassail Fest will be an opportunity to bring our downtown businesses together with a little friendly competition, all while celebrating the importance of small businesses, the day after Black Friday,” said O’Brien. And mark your calendars to join us for the Wonderland of Sights on December 19th– an art and history holiday themed tour will delight people of all ages.
The Downtown Development Corporation is also looking to bring back some favorite holiday displays, allowing visitors and residents additional opportunities to view Christmas lights. “We are excited to partner with the Greater Marshall Chamber of Commerce to work with local neighborhoods to enhance the Wonderland of Lights driving trail this year,” O’Brien said. If you are interested in scheduling a tour group to experience Wonderland of Lights please contact the Marshall Convention & Visitors Bureau at 903-702-9500 or [email protected] .
“Wonderland of Lights has been going for 28 years strong, and we are excited to see what our 29th year has in store. There is an opportunity for any group, business or individual to get involved this year,” O’Brien said. Wonderland of Lights would not be possible without the generous support of the Marshall community. “We are still seeking corporate sponsors. Huge thanks to those already on board: Good Shepherd Medical Center, East Texas Baptist University, East Texas Professional Credit Union, Dr. Valerie Allman, and Marshall Ford. For sponsorship and volunteer details contact us at [email protected] or 903-702-9500. Be sure to follow Wonderland of Lights on Facebook and visit us online at marshalltexas.net for up to date details on entertainment and schedule changes.