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🪶 Letter from the Editor

Hey y’all,

If your calendar looks anything like mine, it’s starting to resemble a game of Tetris—parades, programs, potlucks, school concerts, and at least three different “We should grab coffee before the holidays” invitations that no one has actually scheduled yet.

Underneath all that hustle, though, something real is happening in our little corner of the Hill Country. The lights are going up, the deer are getting bolder (please drive slow, they are on a mission to scare us all), and Main Street windows are quietly doing what they’ve always done: holding the line.

This week’s Townie is built for exactly this moment.

You’ll find a packed events roundup to help you choose your “one big thing” for the week instead of trying to be everywhere at once. We pulled together 25 local gifts that are genuinely worth the gas money—things with stories and faces behind them, not just barcodes. And if you’re itching to get out of town without going far, there’s a Holiday Lights road-trip guide so you can load up the car, sip something warm, and let the glow do the heavy lifting.

You’ll also see me get a little more serious in our Special Feature, where I talk about the real blueprint behind a resilient Mason County. City Hall may be noisy right now, but the future of this place still lives with the people who open their doors, make payroll, and show up for their neighbors. That’s who The Townie is for.

As always, I’d love to know where you’d put us on that little “coffee shop braggin’” scale—hit a number, hit reply, or hit forward and send this to someone who loves these backroads as much as you do.

Thanks for reading, and for being part of what makes this place home.

— Katie Milton Jordan
Editor, The Townie
📬 [email protected] // 📞 325-475-4991

🔑 Special Feature: Stop Waiting for a Savior. Start Building the Blueprint.

Dear Reader,

If you read the headlines, you know the ground is shaking at City Hall. But if you own a business, you know the truth: Main Street holds the line.

The stability of our region has never relied on who is elected—it relies on the people who open their doors every day. That's why, in our paid Townie Business Circle, we don't gossip about who left; we talk about what comes next.

If you’re a local leader or business owner who is done waiting for permission and ready to build a resilient, thriving Mason, you’ve been missing the blueprint.

The Two Insights Your Business Needs Right Now

Your Townie Business Circle membership gives you immediate access to the hard data and practical strategy required to succeed in this shifting landscape:

1. Mason’s True Engine: We reveal why trying to recruit more retail is the "Mason Trap" and why our immediate focus must be on Residential Density—specifically, filling the empty upper stories of our downtown buildings. This isn't just theory; it’s the proven, 40-year strategy used by Corsicana to win the "Best Downtown" title.

2. The Boring Money That Saves Towns: We stop talking about taxes and start talking about free money. Inside the Circle, we break down the TxCDBG grants—the non-sexy, federal funding stream that can replace our aging infrastructure (water, sewer, streets) at a 90% discount, paving the way for developers to finally invest downtown.

👉 Exclusive Access: The 16-Page White Paper

In the December issue, we laid out the full strategy in our 16-Page White Paper: "The Dual Blueprint." This deep-dive breaks down the exact financial models of both Georgetown and Corsicana, providing a clear, actionable Phase 1 plan for Mason’s next chapter. It's the most important thing you'll read this year if you care about the future of our rural economy.

Don’t Build Alone. Join the Circle.

The Townie Business Circle isn't just a newsletter; it's your insider pass to the most motivated leaders in Greater Mason Co.

For just $10/MO, you get:

• Immediate access to the Nov & Dec archive, including the Dual Blueprint White Paper.

• Exclusive Monthly Business Tips and local marketing support.

• A front-row seat to shaping our local economic future.

• A ticket to our Q1 EXCLUSIVE Networking Event (Wine, ideas, and real-talk—date TBA soon!).

Stop guessing about what comes next. Join the leaders who are already working with a plan.

⚡ Ready for the Blueprint?

[Upgrade and Join The Townie Business Circle Today] $10/MO for your exclusive pass to a resilient region.

Events

• Mason — Fourth Quarter Chamber Mixer (Thu, Dec 4, 4:30–6:00 PM, The Commercial Bank) — Mason County Chamber. Wrap up the year with fellow business owners at the Chamber’s final mixer of 2025. Enjoy an evening of holiday cheer at The Commercial Bank with refreshments, door prizes, and plenty of good company as Mason’s business community celebrates the year’s successes.

• Junction — Christmas Shop Late (Thu, Dec 4, Noon–6:30 PM, Downtown Junction) — Junction Merchants. Downtown shops stay open late this Thursday for a festive holiday shopping stroll. Browse local boutiques for unique gifts and enjoy some hometown hospitality along the way. It’s a merry chance to support Junction’s small businesses and find that perfect Hill Country present.

• Fredericksburg — Light the Night Christmas Parade (Fri, Dec 5, 6:30 PM, Main Street) — Fredericksburg Chamber. Fredericksburg’s beloved nighttime parade fills Main Street with more than 150 illuminated floats, marching bands, and holiday cheer. This first-Friday tradition dazzles the town at 6:30 PM. Bring a chair or grab a bleacher seat and watch as the spirit of the season sparkles down Main — Santa Claus included!

• Llano — A Dickens of a Christmas (Fri–Sun, Dec 5–7, Downtown Llano) — Llano Chamber. Llano invites you to experience a Victorian-era Christmas during its “Dickens of a Christmas” weekend. Downtown transforms with costumed carolers, street vendors, and horse-drawn carriages. Saturday features an old-fashioned market by day and a lighted parade at night around the courthouse. Step back in time for a truly magical holiday.

• Mason — WinterFisch Celebration (Sat, Dec 6, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM, James River Crossing on Llano River) — Mason County. Mason’s 9th annual WinterFisch kicks off trout season with a family fun day on the Llano River. Learn fishing tips, let the kids enter casting contests, and try to reel in freshly stocked rainbow trout. Don’t worry if you lack gear — loaner poles will be on hand!

• Mason — Seaquist House Tour (Sat, Dec 6, 10:00 AM–1:30 PM, Seaquist House) — Seaquist House Foundation. Mason’s crown jewel mansion, the 1887 Seaquist House, opens for holiday tours on Saturday. Explore ornate rooms and hear the rich history from friendly guides. No reservation needed; just swing by between 10 AM and 1:30 PM for a peek inside this beautifully restored treasure (adults $15, kids discounted).

• Castell — Gumbo Cook-Off (Sat, Dec 6, 11:00 AM, Castell General Store) — Castell General Store. Cajun spice hits the Llano River! At Castell’s annual gumbo cook-off, teams will be stirring big pots behind the historic general store all afternoon. Sample hearty gumbo, tap your toes to live music, and vote for your favorite recipe. It’s small-town Texas fun with a delicious Louisiana twist.

• Menard — Christmas in the Park (Sat, Dec 6, 4:00 PM, Low Water Crossing Park) — Menard County Chamber. Santa is swapping his sleigh for a fire truck this year in Menard! Vendors open at 4 PM with sweets and cocoa at Low Water Park, and jolly St. Nick arrives at 5 PM courtesy of the Menard VFD. Enjoy the twinkling riverbank lights, free treats, and small-town holiday magic with the whole family.

• Brady — Brady’s Got Talent 2025 (Sat, Dec 6, 7:00 PM, Palace Theater) — The Palace Theater. Brady’s homegrown talent show is back! Come cheer on singers, dancers and performers of all ages vying for the $1,000 grand prize at the historic Palace Theater. It’s a night of wholesome entertainment and friendly competition that showcases the amazing local talent our town has to offer.

• Harper — Children’s Christmas Party (Sat, Dec 13, 10:00 AM, Harper Library) — Harper Library. The Harper Library is hosting its annual kids’ Christmas party, and Santa’s the guest of honor! Families can swing by Saturday morning for holiday storytime, crafts, snacks, and a chance to snap photos with Santa. It’s a sweet, simple celebration that brings our tight-knit Harper community together every Christmas.

• Brady — “Christmas in the Heart” Parade of Lights (Sat, Dec 13, 5:00 PM, Downtown Brady) — Brady Clergy Association. Downtown Brady will glow with holiday lights as the annual “Christmas in the Heart” Parade rolls out at dusk. Starting at 5 PM on the square, enjoy bounce houses, kids’ games, live music and food. Then watch dozens of floats twinkle through the streets, spreading small-town Christmas cheer (and yes, Santa will be there!).

• Llano — Courthouse Square Farmers Market (Sat, Dec 20, 9:00 AM–1:00 PM, Llano Courthouse Square) — City of Llano. Need last-minute gifts or fresh fixings for Christmas dinner? Visit Llano’s courthouse market on Saturday morning. Dozens of local farmers and artisans will be selling everything from winter veggies and homemade jams to handmade crafts and baked treats. Shop local, meet your neighbors, and stock up on Hill Country goodness before the holidays.

• Junction — Light Up Junction Parade & Movie (Sat, Dec 20, 6:30 PM, Main Street & City Park) — Kimble County Chamber. Junction’s night parade will light up Main Street at 6:30 PM with glowing floats and small-town cheer. Santa’s sure to make an appearance! After the parade, head to City Park for a free outdoor showing of “The Santa Clause” under the stars. Bundle up, bring blankets, and enjoy a perfect holiday evening in Junction.

• London — New Year’s Eve Dance (Wed, Dec 31, 9:00 PM, London Dance Hall) — London Dance Hall. Ring in 2026 at one of Texas’s oldest dance halls! London Hall is throwing a classic country New Year’s bash with live music by Mykel Martin. Reserve a table if you like, BYOB, and get ready to two-step into the new year as this historic small-town dance hall counts down to midnight.

Community Features

• Fredericksburg — Pacific War Gallery Reopens — The National Museum of the Pacific War reopens its George H.W. Bush Gallery on Dec. 6 after months of renovation. The WWII museum’s main exhibition hall is back and better than ever. A ribbon cutting and free admission will welcome visitors to the refreshed space and kick off a new chapter for this Fredericksburg treasure.

• Kerrville — Thousands Cheer Holiday Parade — Thousands of people lined Water Street in Kerrville on Nov. 23 for the city’s annual Holiday Lighted Parade. Nearly 100 entries — from sparkling floats to marching bands — delighted the crowd, and Santa himself waved from the finale. The glowing procession was a welcome celebration of community spirit after a challenging year.

• Llano — Food Truck Feeds Families — During a recent federal shutdown that delayed SNAP benefits, Llano’s own JJ’s SmokeWorks food truck stepped up. Every Wednesday they’ve been serving free hot meals to families showing a SNAP card, ensuring local kids get a hearty dinner each week. It’s neighbors helping neighbors — a shining example of our community’s heart.

Business/School Highlights

• Fredericksburg — Wild Game Dinner Funds Education — Gillespie County’s Wild Game Dinner drew a big crowd and raised tens of thousands for local FFA and 4-H scholarships. Attendees feasted on venison, wild boar and other exotic dishes while bidding in lively auctions. It’s a Hill Country tradition where hunters, ranchers and city folk unite to support youth in agriculture.

• Kerrville — Downtown Storefront Grants — Kerrville is launching a new grant program to help downtown shops spruce up their storefronts. Local businesses can apply for matching funds to repaint exteriors, add new signs, and give Main Street a fresh look. It’s an early holiday gift from the city aimed at keeping Kerrville’s historic downtown vibrant and welcoming.

Awards/Recognitions

• Kerrville — Businesses Earn Chamber Honors — Kerrville’s Chamber celebrated community heroes at its 2025 awards gala. K&R Heating and Cooling was named Large Business of the Year, and Armour Excavations earned Small Business of the Year for their pivotal roles in flood recovery. The night showcased how local businesses stepped up in a crisis — a testament to Kerrville’s big heart.

• Fredericksburg — Student Honors Beloved Teacher — A Fredericksburg fifth-grader gave her former math teacher a heartwarming surprise at the November school board meeting. Student Carla Gallegos honored her teacher, Sarah Howard, during a special “Mission Moment,” thanking Mrs. Howard for making math fun. The touching tribute, met with applause from board members, left the beloved educator speechless — and deeply appreciated.

Editor’s note: All listings verified and current for the 12/04/25 edition of The Townie.

🌤️ Weather at a Glance: Week of December 4–10, 2025

Well, bless your hearts, the Hill Country is fixin' to go on a rollercoaster ride this week, so don't put your light jackets away just yet! You can expect a major cool-down right out of the gate, with a cold front blowin' through that's gonna drop daytime highs from the cozy 60s into the chilly 50s on Thursday, and bring some low temps flirtin' with the freezing mark in the upper 30s. Now, that cold air ain't comin' quietly—we got a high chance of rain, thunderstorms, and high winds through Friday morning, so keep an eye out for any low-water crossings. By Saturday, things clear up and we start warming right back up, with highs climbing into the high 60s and 70s for a bright and sunny weekend, and those low-to-mid 40s lows will feel tolerable again!

Skip the Big Box, Y'all: These 25 Local Gifts Are Worth the Gas Money to Get 'Em!

Hold onto your hats, honey, because it’s time to talk holiday shoppin’! The big-box stores may have all the flashy ads, but if you want a gift with real Texas heart—the kind they’ll still be talkin' about next Fourth of July—you gotta hit the back roads. We’ve rounded up the best little local hauls across Mason, Menard, Junction, Brady, and Fredericksburg, so grab your water bottle and a little pocket cash, 'cause we found 25 ways to fill up that sleigh and keep your neighbors in business. This here list is proof positive.

🎁 The Townie’s Guide to Gifts Worth Driving For

For the Fine Ladies (The "Her" Gift)

If you want to treat the special women in your life to something that says, "Darlin', you deserve the best," look no further than these Main Street treasures.

• Heirloom Quilt or Textile Art: Head on over to Brady and stop in at Serenity Quilts of Many Colors.

• Statement Jewelry or Artisan Leather Cuff: Find something stunning in Junction at Junction Jewelry & Gifts or Sassy Senorita Boutique.

• Luxurious Soaps and Lotions: Treat her to a little pamperin' in Mason at The Thing Is Boutique (or a certificate to The Beauty and Spa Studio).

• Hill Country Wine Accessories: Grab a fancy glass set or German silver jewelry in Fredericksburg from Loca on Main Hill Country Boutique or Zertz.

• Local Honey or Gourmet Treats: Find a sweet something in Menard from a local shop near Salon 108.

For the Good Ol' Boys (The "Him" Gift)

Don't let your fella settle for another useless gadget. These are gifts for the ranch, the hunt, or just sitting out on the porch lookin’ good.

• Quality Pocket Knife or Multi-Tool: Get him the real deal in Junction at Hill Country Sporting Goods.

• Outdoor Thermal Mug: Keep his coffee hot when he’s out on the acreage by picking one up in Menard at Kothmann Feed & Country Store.

• Durable Leather Wallet or Card Holder: Find high-quality leather goods in Brady at Down Home Gifts & Custom Designs.

• Top-Shelf Cap or Hunting Gear: Outfit him right in Fredericksburg with a trip to Hill Country Outfitters.

• Rugged, Texas-Themed Apparel: Find a comfy T-shirt or quality ballcap in Mason at The Mason Boutique.

For the Big Cheese (Gifts for Your Boss)

Keep it classy, keep it professional, and for goodness sakes, keep it local. These are guaranteed to earn you some brownie points this year.

• Gourmet Jams, Sauces, and Preserves: Grab a fantastic gift basket in Fredericksburg at Fischer & Wieser's Das Peach Haus.

• Local Spirits or Wine: Find a bottle of something special in Mason at Murphy Creek Cellars, LLC. or PorchLight Distillery.

• Peanut Brittle and Fudge Sampler: Get a signature Brady treat in Brady from Down Home Gifts & Custom Designs.

• Artisan Honey or Baked Delicacies: Find a beautiful package of gourmet treats in Junction at The Beehive Junction.

• Rare Local Honey or Pepper Jellies: Head on down to Menard for this unique, professional gift from San Saba River Growers, LLC.

For the Little Rascals (Gifts for Kids)

The best gifts are the ones that let them use their imagination, not just a screen. These shops are full of fun just waitin' to happen.

• Classic Wooden Toy or Puzzle: Find the perfect non-electronic fun in Fredericksburg at Jabberwocky.

• Tough Youth Work Gloves or Western Bandana: Equip your helper with gear from Menard's Kothmann Feed & Country Store.

• Funky Cowboy-Themed Socks or Apparel: Get them a sassy outfit in Junction at The Jazzy Cowgirl.

• Cute Toys or Crafts: Check out the selection in the back of Mason's Market Square.

• Coloring Book and Pencil Set: Grab the basics for creative time in Brady at City Drug of Brady, Inc.

For Your Bestie (Under $20 and Highly Thoughtful)

Proof that the best gifts don't break the bank! These are perfect for your ride-or-die best friend.

• Locally-Poured Candle: Find a candle in a Texas scent like cedar or leather in Mason at Mason Candle Co.

• Decadent Slice of Pie or Sweet Treat: Indulge her sweet tooth in Fredericksburg at Pritzers Sweet Shop.

• Small Batch Edible Treat: Find a bag of homemade cookies or savory mix in Menard at Texas Scratch Kitchen.

• Texas-Shaped Cookie Cutter or Gadget: Grab a fun kitchen item in Brady at Dart Furniture Inc.

• Local Souvenir Keychain or Decal: Find a fun accessory in Junction at Urban River or Tan Bar & Boutique.

Need to Feed ‘Em? (Bonus Gift Certificate Ideas)

Sometimes the best gift is an experience (one that keeps your kitchen clean!). Give the gift of a great meal with a gift certificate from one of these top local restaurants:

• Steakhouse / Fine Dining: Fredericksburg's Hitchin' Post Steakhouse for a true Hill Country premium meal.

• Barbecue: Treat them to the best smoked meats in the state with a gift card to Junction's Cooper's "Original" Pit Bar-B-Q.

• Italian: Get a certificate to Brady's Joe's Italian Ristorante for a cozy night out.

• Classic Southern / Cafe: Gift a delightful homestyle meal from Mason's Willow Creek Cafe and Club.

• New American / Pub Fare: Send them for a fun, casual certificate in Menard at Summerland Public House.

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Q: Holiday retail strategies for small businesses
Dear Walt & Nadine,

I run a small gift and home decor shop on Main Street, and the holidays are both a blessing and a blur. I try to do “all the things” — extended hours, window displays, gift wrapping, holiday open house, social posts, the works — but I always end up exhausted and wondering if I actually made money.

How can I plan smarter this season? What’s actually worth it for a shop like mine during the holidays, and what’s just busywork?

Sincerely,
🎁 Holly-Dazed on Main Street

WALT SAYS: You don’t need more glitter. You need a game plan.

Start with your numbers from last year. What sold? When were your best days? Who was buying? Double down on that.

Next, stop doing things just because “everyone else is.” If the open house doesn’t move product, skip it. If wrapping takes hours and loses you sales, charge for it or quit doing it.

Also — don’t run yourself ragged. Customers can smell stress. Be open when people shop (nights, weekends), keep it simple, and make it easy to buy. That’s what matters.

NADINE SAYS: Walt’s right — you need to treat your calendar like a strategy, not a scavenger hunt.

Start with a mini holiday editorial calendar. Pick 2–3 key promotions or events (like a “12 Days of Deals” or a Customer Appreciation Weekend) and build around those. Everything else should support those goals — not distract from them.

Social posts? Tie them directly to what’s in stock and how people can buy. Email reminders? Send them 2–3 times with urgency and clear calls to action.

Also, protect your energy. Plan your days off now. Schedule help, even if it’s just a teen for Saturdays. A rested owner is your best marketing tool.

Focus, breathe, and sell what people actually want to give. You’ve got this.

—Walt & Nadine

Click here to 👉 Submit your classified to The Townie.

Dear Laurel & Reese,

I love giving to causes I care about, and this year I’ve been fortunate enough to give more than usual. But I keep hearing about “smart” ways to give before year-end that can lower your tax bill. I don’t want to get overly complicated, but I am curious—what are the best charitable giving strategies to consider before December 31st?

—Generous & Strategic

Okay, you know we have thoughts.

First off, high five for putting your dollars where your values are. That’s meaningful on every level—personal, community, and yes, even tax.

If you’re already giving from the heart, let us help you give with strategy. Before December 31 hits, there are some surprisingly effective ways to support your favorite causes and potentially shrink your tax bill. Here's your playbook:

💸 1. Donate Appreciated Stock Instead of Cash
LAUREL: This is one of the most underrated moves. If you’ve held stock for over a year and it’s increased in value, donating it directly to a qualified charity lets you avoid capital gains tax and deduct the full fair market value.
REESE: Translation: you get a bigger deduction and the charity gets the full amount. Wall Street wins for Main Street.

📦 2. Clear Out the Closet—with Documentation
REESE: If you’ve made non-cash donations (clothes, furniture, etc.), those can be deductible too. Just make sure you’ve got receipts and fair value estimates.
LAUREL: The IRS isn’t trying to price your old blender, but if it’s over $500 in total, you’ll need Form 8283. TurboTax and similar tools walk you through it.

🧾 3. Bunch Your Donations
LAUREL: The standard deduction is high—$14,600 for single filers and $29,200 for married couples in 2025—so not all donations will push you over that threshold. “Bunching” means you stack two years’ worth of giving into one year to maximize your itemized deductions.
REESE: Basically, give more in one year, then take the standard deduction next year. It’s like donation batching for tax nerds.

🏦 4. Use a Donor-Advised Fund (DAF)
REESE: This sounds fancy but it’s actually pretty accessible. You donate money now (and get the tax deduction this year), but can give it to your favorite charities over time.
LAUREL: Fidelity, Schwab, and others have DAFs with low minimums. Great if you’re having a higher-income year and want to plan your giving thoughtfully.

🧓 5. Over 70½? Do a QCD
LAUREL: If you’re taking Required Minimum Distributions from an IRA and are 70½ or older, you can donate up to $100,000 directly to charity. It’s called a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD).
REESE: You don’t get a deduction—but it does keep that amount out of your taxable income. Sneaky-smart.

🔍 6. Keep Good Records (Seriously)
REESE: We know, we know—spreadsheets aren’t sexy. But if you’re donating more than $250 to any one charity, you need a written acknowledgment.
LAUREL: Keep your receipts, emails, or letters. The IRS doesn’t do “vibes-based” giving.

The bottom line: smart charitable giving is where generosity meets intentionality. You’re not gaming the system—you’re making your dollars do more, for you and for the causes you love.

Need help beyond the basics? A fee-only tax pro or financial advisor can help you tailor these strategies to your specific income and goals.

Give big, give smart, and keep those receipts.

—Career & Money with Laurel & Reese

Dear Hazel Mae & Fern,
The holidays are sneaking up on us, and I’d love to make the house feel festive — but between gifts, groceries, and keeping the heater running, there’s not much left in the decorating budget. Do y’all have any ideas for holiday decorating that won’t break the bank? I’m especially curious about using natural stuff I might already have around.

— Trying to Deck the Halls Without Emptying My Wallet in Art

Hazel Mae: Well, sugarplum, you are speaking my language. I once strung popcorn and cranberries on dental floss because I’d run out of ribbon and patience. It looked adorable and kept my hands busy enough to stop me from stress-snacking on fudge.

Here’s the truth: nature gives us more decoration than Hobby Lobby ever could. Grab some clippers and head outside. Magnolia leaves? Gorgeous. Cedar branches? Smell like heaven. Pinecones? Free and festive, especially dipped in a little white paint or glitter if you're feeling fancy. Bundle 'em up with twine and boom — a mantle masterpiece.

Wrap your gifts in brown paper bags with sprigs of rosemary or dried orange slices. It’s not just charming; it smells like you baked something (even if you didn’t). And if you've got kids or grandkids around, send 'em on a “decor scavenger hunt” — pinecones, acorns, red berries (not the poisonous ones!), pretty sticks — you’ll have a full centerpiece in an afternoon.

And if all else fails, light a bunch of candles and call it ambiance. Works every time.

— Hazel Mae

Fern: Oh, I love this question — and your instinct to use what’s already around is exactly right. The holidays shouldn’t be about pressure or perfection, but about warmth, memory, and intention.

Start with a walk. Nature’s palette this time of year is subtle but stunning — rusty reds, soft greens, faded golds. Gather what speaks to you. Dried grasses, seed pods, and cedar clippings can be tucked into wreaths, garlands, or simply placed in a mason jar with a ribbon.

If you have a dehydrator or a low-temp oven, sliced oranges become glowing little stained-glass windows strung on twine. Bay leaves make beautiful, fragrant garlands. Even old quilt scraps or bits of flannel shirts can be turned into ornaments or tied around candles.

And remember — the beauty of natural decor is that it returns to the earth when you're done. No storage bins, no waste. Just the quiet rhythm of the season, brought indoors.

With warmth,
— Fern

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Travel Feature: Holiday Lights Tours Across Hill Country

The secret to a perfect Hill Country holiday? It's not about staying home, it's about hitting the road for a slow, sweet drive! We've mapped out the best evening light spectaculars in and around our region, perfect for a quiet Tuesday or a cozy Saturday night excursion. Grab a late lunch, stroll the town square, wait for that magical dusk glow, and then take the scenic route home.

Friendly PSA, y'all: With the low sun and the high spirits, the deer are suicidal this time of year! Please drive slowly and carefully on those county roads.

Here are the five twinkling destinations worth the gas money:

1. The Anchor: Johnson City ("The Twinkliest Town")

This is the big one, folks—the center of the Hill Country's light universe, and a must-see for every Texas family.

• The Display: The legendary Lights Spectacular boasts over two million twinkling lights. The display covers the historic square, Memorial Park, and the PEC headquarters.

• Famous Fact: It's so big, NASA has reportedly seen the light display from space.

• The Plan: Arrive just before dusk, walk the historic downtown, and enjoy local food and festivities. Stay until late, when the lights are still glowing bright.

2. The German Charm: Fredericksburg

For a dose of European tradition mixed with Texas hospitality, Fredericksburg's Marktplatz is the perfect stop.

• The Display: Experience "Christmas Nights of Lights" at Marktplatz, running nightly through early January.

• The Event: Holiday music begins at 5:00 p.m.. The real show is the nightly 10-minute audio presentation, which includes German heritage carols and a countdown to the lighting of the Community Christmas Tree and German Christmas Pyramid. The presentation itself starts at 6:00 p.m..

3. The Historic Gem: Mason

Turn your light viewing into a step back in time with a stop at Mason's magnificent historic home.

• The Display: The Annual Christmas at the Seaquist House is a great place to enjoy some history and snap killer family photos after sunset.

• The Bonus Tour: For a special treat, plan your visit for Saturday, December 20th for the evening "Mini" Open House and Self-Guided Tour. From 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., you can see the home's three decorated levels lit up at night and take photos. Cost is only $5 per adult (children 8th grade and under are free).

4. The Heart of Texas Charm: Brady

The Heart of Texas puts on a dazzling display right in the center of town.

• The Event: Plan your evening around Brady's annual "Christmas in the Heart & Parade of Lights." This event is scheduled for Saturday, December 13, 2025, and runs from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

• The Display: The festivities begin at 5:00 p.m. at the Downtown Square with bounce houses, children's games, live music, food, and carriage rides. The highlight is the Lighted Parade around the Downtown Square which starts at dark.

5. The New Year's Treat: Junction

Want to keep the holiday spirit going long after Christmas dinner? Junction offers a lights display that twinkles into the New Year.

• The Display: Make plans to visit the "Holiday Lights on the Llano" display. This beautiful light display illuminates trees in Junction City Park along the banks of the Llano River.

• The Plan: This is the perfect trip for a quiet weeknight drive after the chaos of Christmas settles down. The display runs through January 1st, so plan to drive through and enjoy the serene display on New Year's Day. Since the lights simply turn on at dusk (around 6:00 p.m.), you don't need to worry about a specific start time—just aim for after sunset!

🥂 Holiday Party Survival Readings — Week of 12/04/25

Aries (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

You are ready to charge into the holiday gathering with the force of a cold front, but the stars are asking you to pause at the front door. You don't need to dominate the conversation to be noticed; try charming one person deeply instead of loud-talking the whole room. Your survival strategy this week is simple: choose your battles, and save your fiery energy for the dance floor, not for settling old grudges near the punch bowl. Keep your movements fluid and your exit swift if the air gets too thick.

Taurus (Apr 20 – May 20)

Your survival kit for any festive crowd requires three things: comfort, good food, and a sense of quiet ownership. Don't hover by the front porch waiting for a sign; settle yourself into the warmest corner of the room, preferably one near the best snacks, and let the party come to you. This week is less about making introductions and more about soaking up the sensory pleasure of the season. Your feet are planted firmly on the beautiful tile floor, and no amount of chaos can shake your peace if you simply enjoy the flavor of the moment.

Gemini (May 21 – Jun 20)

You could be the life of the party this week, flitting between groups like a hummingbird, but the true test of your grace will be your staying power. Avoid getting caught in a three-hour deep-dive with one person, no matter how engaging they are. To truly survive, you need a clever escape plan for every corner of the house. Treat the party like a quick tour of five different towns, collecting just enough conversation to feel satisfied before moving along to the next shiny thing.

Cancer (Jun 21 – Jul 22)

The emotional weather inside a crowded room can feel stormy to your sensitive heart, dear one. You might be tempted to put up a big, hard shell, but true survival means finding the single softest spot in the house—maybe a quiet kitchen corner or the back porch light—and grounding yourself there. Remember, not every feeling is yours to hold. Offer your tenderness only to those who truly seek comfort, and quietly disappear before the noise gets too sharp.

Leo (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

The holiday party is your natural stage, and you’re ready to shine brighter than any Christmas tree on the square. While the spotlight feels good, true survival this week involves sharing the glow. Find someone who looks shy or lost and genuinely make them feel like a star; the universe will return that warmth to you tenfold. Avoid the urge to criticize the music or the decorations, and instead, let your generous laughter be the grandest thing in the room.

Virgo (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

You walked into this party ready to take notes, organize the coat rack, or gently correct the host’s appetizer labels. But stop right there! Your perfect survival strategy involves radical surrender. Let the chaos unfold. Instead of trying to fix the room, focus on one small, beautiful detail: the smell of the mesquite smoke outside, the perfect texture of a linen napkin, the quiet rhythm of the ice falling into glasses. Ground your nervous energy in sensory detail, not service.

Libra (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

You are the master of the graceful entrance and the charming conversation, but watch out for the velvet trap of endless agreement. Your survival depends on having boundaries finer than a spider’s silk. If someone wants to engage in a tense debate, smile sweetly, say you need a glass of water, and move toward the porch lights. Your mission is harmony, not martyrdom. Choose one beautiful, balanced relationship to tend to this evening, and let the rest of the room simply hum in the background.

Scorpio (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

A surface-level party can feel shallow to your deep waters, tempting you to hover silently in the shadows or dive into intense, complicated territory. Your survival goal is to connect without consuming. You can offer a knowing glance or one deeply true statement and then step back. The power is in your presence, not in spilling your soul. If you feel the pressure of the crowd, simply remember the secret power you carry, and retreat before you’re tempted to play mind games with the mistletoe.

Sagittarius (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

This holiday setting is going to make you feel like a wild mustang tied too tightly to a hitching post. Your adventurous spirit needs room to roam! Your survival strategy is movement. Don't commit to standing in one place. Instead, treat the party like a rambling backroad journey, talking to a bartender here, visiting the host there, and stopping to admire the neighbor’s lights from the window. Leave before you feel the ceiling getting too low, satisfied that you have sampled every interesting view.

Capricorn (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

You are the reliable foundation in any social structure, and you'll find yourself instantly drawn to the host, offering help or quiet advice. Resist the urge to handle the logistics of the entire evening. Your survival lies in recognizing that not everything must be managed or earned. Take off your invisible work hat and put on your "enjoy the fruits of your labor" hat. Stand tall, accept a compliment without redirecting it, and let the evening be a simple, well-deserved reward.

Aquarius (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

You will find the loudest, most conventional part of the gathering completely draining. To survive, you must seek the quirky orbit. Find the one person standing alone who looks completely out of place, or find the group discussing the strange patterns of the coming celestial movements. Your wit is sharpest when you feel free to be different. Don’t waste energy trying to fit in; instead, make the odd corner of the room the most interesting place to be.

Pisces (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

The sheer volume of human emotion pulsing through the room might send you straight back to the security of your own four walls. Before you dissolve entirely, remember your gift: empathy. If you feel overwhelmed, quietly go to the bathroom and run your hands under cold water, grounding yourself in the here and now. Your survival is secured when you recognize that you are simply witnessing the party, not living inside everyone else’s feelings. Just breathe the air, smell the cedar, and drift away before you sink.

💫 Until next week, may your backroads be safe and your heart be light.

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