25N Waco’s Local Holiday Activity Guide (the one Yule Absolutely Love)

Maybe you need something to do during those 2+ long weeks of holiday break with your kids. Maybe you need a healthy distraction from five straight days of online shopping between Thanksgiving and Cyber Monday. Either way: on your day off from 25N, here’s your shortcut to Waco’s best holiday happenings. Perfect for families, couples, or a solo adventurer:

November 23: Glitter Market

Hosted by The Paper Crown Get a head start on your holiday gifting at this local maker market packed with handmade goods, art, and seasonal finds. A perfect low-key Saturday outing for families or a solo browse with a coffee in hand.

Time: 1–5 PM

Cost: Free

November 28: Poultry in Motion – Waco Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot

Start your morning with the most holiday-themed cardio imaginable. Choose from a one-mile fun run, a 5K walk/run, or the “Side Dish” option for your more reluctant running buddies. Proceeds support the Community Cancer Association.

Time: Morning of November 28

November 28–December 30: Wild Lights at Cameron Park Zoo

The zoo transforms into a glowing holiday walk-through filled with millions of lights, festive displays, and Santa sightings (through December 23). Open Thursday–Sunday evenings, plus select added dates. Combo daytime + Wild Lights tickets available. A guaranteed crowd-pleaser for families.

Times: 6–9 PM

November 30 at 2 PM: Home Alone in Concert

Watch the classic film on the big screen while the Waco Symphony Orchestra performs the score live. Perfect for couples, families, or anyone who still quotes the movie every December.

December 5–7: 13th Annual Waco Wonderland Festival

Downtown Waco’s three-day holiday celebration. Expect tree lightings, food trucks, live music, Santa visits, a Ferris wheel, and all the festive chaos you’d hope for in a city-wide winter kickoff.

Location: Heritage Square

December 7: Downtown Waco Cocoa Crawl

A sip-and-stroll moment for your holiday season. Twenty local businesses serve specialty hot chocolates while offering exclusive promos and shopping deals. Bring friends, bring your partner, or just bring your best cocoa-tasting energy.

Time: 11 AM–4 PM

Location: City Center Waco, 801 Elm Ave

December 31 at Noon: Noon Year’s Eve at Mayborn Museum

Ring in the new year 12 hours early with a kid-friendly balloon drop and party hour. Ideal for families who prefer celebrations that don’t disrupt bedtime routines.

Time: 12–1 PM