Explore Alpine This Holiday Season
Explore where the essence of the holidays meets the raw beauty of the Chihuahuan Desert. Alpine, Texas, is that enchanting oasis. This idyllic town elevates the season’s spirit, beckoning visitors to step back in time and immerse themselves in the holidays.
Historic Charm and Festive Flair
Alpine is the perfect winter wonderland escape in Texas. Kick off the holiday season on December 1st and 2nd for “Christmas in Alpine,” a festive treasure trove of delightful activities for visitors of all ages thoughtfully curated by Historic Alpine, Inc. From its history-laden streets to its charming community, Alpine transforms into a yuletide wonder. By day, watch the morning dew (and maybe snow!) glisten on the desert flora; by night, lose yourself in North America’s darkest skies. Alpine isn’t just a trip; it’s where the mile-high desert and stars come together for a show you can’t miss. See the universe from our backyard. Alpine is far from ordinary – book your magical escape now! For more information, visit visitalpinetx.com and historicalpine.org.
Christmas in Alpine Weekend Itinerary
Friday, December 1st
- From 4–7 p.m. enjoy a heartwarming cup of wassail as you journey through the Historic Alpine Wassail Crawl. Discover local gems like Front Street Books, an independent bookstore in historic downtown. Make sure to catch Lucy’s Christmas Cottage, where Lucy and Belia, Alpine’s holiday connoisseurs, showcase an array of unique and collectible Christmas decorations and gifts. As you meander through the twinkling town and savor unique ciders and mulled wines brought to you by Historic Alpine and the Alpine Business Alliance, soak in the festive allure of shops, like Desert Palette Antiques or local artist-run-galleries like Catchlight Art and Gallery on the Square. Complete your visit with Wasserman’s Wranch along Holland Ave, where you can wrap yourself in luxurious alpaca scarves or find one-of-a-kind gift items from Vintage Antiques and Snazzy Things. This Wassail crawl is more than a shopping trip and festive sensory adventure celebrating the heart of Alpine.
- Following the Wassail Crawl, join the Big Bend Community Chorale for the Brewster County Tree Lighting hosted by the Alpine Lion’s Club, a beacon of the community since 1941.
Saturday, December 2nd
- Families can glide and twirl together throughout the morning at the Kishmish Ice Skating Rink, set against a backdrop of a sparkling light maze at the newly revitalized Kishmish Plaza, previously the site of Alpine Lumber, established 130 years ago, this iconic downtown landmark is a featured stop on the Alpine Historic Tour.
- Shop regional artisans at Mountain Country Christmas located in the Alpine Civic Center. Brought to you by the Alpine Woman’s Club, this annual holiday sale supports community projects throughout the year.
- From 1–4 p.m., the Historic Alpine Holiday Home Tour invites you to explore Alpine’s most beautifully adorned homes. Whether you’re looking for decoration inspiration or want to immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere, this tour is for you. Tickets are $25. The tour features seven homes and the historic Kinkaid Wade House, now operating as the Alpine Bed & Breakfast, built in 1888. Special discounts are available for guests at the B&B during the Christmas in Alpine weekend using code #TexasMonthly.
- The Third Annual Christmas Stroll, a musical promenade that meanders through Alpine’s picturesque residential streets kicks off at 5:30 p.m. The culmination of this beautiful stroll is the Sul Ross State University tree, where the community gathers to partake in a heartwarming symphony and soulful Christmas caroling led by Dr. Andrew Alegria.
- After the festivities, the enchantment continues at the Vaquero House, the headquarters for Historic Alpine. Located at 208 N. Cockrell, they host their annual Community Christmas party, setting the stage for Alpine’s beloved band, The Swifts. Guests are treated to a front porch performance with melodies that capture the heart and soul of Alpine, making it an unforgettable evening under the Texas stars.
Amid the sweeping vistas of the Chihuahuan Desert, Alpine, Texas, at Christmastime, becomes a vibrant tableau of Americana at its finest. It’s here that the enduring spirit of community, festivity, and tradition converge to create a winter celebration unparalleled in its authenticity. From the twinkle of the Wassail Crawl to the grandeur of the Christmas Stroll against the desert backdrop, Alpine embodies the essence of American holiday charm, inviting all to partake in a season of joy as timeless as the star-studded sky above.
