There are so many cities in Texas that make for terrific holiday destinations. Laredo is one that can’t be missed.
Laredo sits on the boarder of Mexico in the southern part of the state. It is home to the Republic of the Rio Grande Museum and the Imaginarium of South Texas. You can enjoy nature in Lack Casa Blanca International State Park or take the bridge that sits next to Les Dos Laredo Park across the Rio Grande into Mexico.
The city is great to visit any time of year, but it really lights up at Christmastime. Here are some things you can see and do.
Pictures with Santa at Mall Del Norte
The Mall Del Norte is a great place to get holiday shopping done. While there, be sure to drop off the kids for a visit with Santa Claus. He’ll be in front of Macy’s conducting meet and greets Monday through Saturday from 10 AM to 9 PM and Sundays from noon to 6. Yikes, when is he going to find time to pack the sleigh?
Christmas Tribute to Selena
The homes in Laredo are bound to be dressed to the nines for the holiday season, but there is a home at 431 Wilfrano Dr. that takes a special approach. The owner honors the late pop star Selena by synchronizing his lights to “Como La Flor”.
The owner, Tomas Rodriguez, always dresses up his home making it a popular holiday destination. He usually synchronizes his lights to carols but changed things up when his cousin requested a Selena homage.
In addition to pleasing visitors, his home set the entire internet alight. Rodriguez shared a brief video of the display on social media and received thousands of likes, shares and comments.
Events at Laredo Parks
Laredo has many parks that are sure to be hosting events during the Christmas season. Here are some to look out for.
- Independence Hills Park: Independence Hills Park hosts a mid-December event that includes a tree lighting ceremony, train rides, sweet bread, lives bands, movies and a visit from Santa.
- Inner City Park: The Inner-City Park event happens in mid-December. Guest can come by to enjoy arts and crafts, food, games, and music. Pet adoption will also be available.
- Slaughter Park: Visitors and residents won’t want to miss this Slaughter Park event that offers an ice slide, train rides, a tree lighting live music and food.
Lights at Jovita Idar “El Progreso” Park
El Progreso park’s display has become an annual tradition. It includes a 98-foot-long light tunnel that illuminates the park. It kicks off with a small ceremony hosted by members of the city council. Families can continue to visit throughout the holiday season to take photos and enjoy the dancing lights.
Visitors can enjoy the display from the comfort of their cars while listening to holiday tunes programmed on 88.5 FM. At the end of the show, all the lights go on so guests can take well lit pictures.
Holiday Shopping
If you are looking to cross names off your holiday list, Laredo is the place to do it. Shop the downtown area to check out the many independently owned businesses that sell a variety of items including cosmetics, electronics and more.
The Outlet Shoppes at Laredo is a terrific destination for finding discounts on your favorite goods.
Head to San Bernardo Ave to find unique Mexican products including art pieces, home décor, pinatas and jewelry. The street sits in the middle of a 40-block area filled with vendors showcasing their goods.
Navidad Fest
Navidad Fest happens at the end of November at the Laredo Energy Arena. It includes great food, a snow slide, photos with Santa, a tree lighting ceremony, train rides, ice skating, cookies and hot chocolate. You can also make ornaments at Santa’s Workshop.
Workshops at the Imaginarium of South Texas
The Imaginarium of South Texas is a Children’s Museum that provides hands on experiences and captivating exhibits. During the holiday season, it hosts seasonal workshops that are sure to fill attendees with holiday cheer.
The Ornament Decorating workshop takes place inside the Mall del Norte next to Dillards. Attend to meet people and take home a unique ornament.
The Gingerbread Cookie Decorating Workshop happens at the same location. Decorate cookies with a unique design and take them home for friends and family to enjoy.
Republic of the Rio Grande Museum
The Republic of the Rio Grande is housed in one of Laredo’s oldest structures built in 1830 with an addition in 1860. It was once the home of Bartolome Garcia, a prominent rancher and the city’s former mayor. The building served as the capitol of the Republic of Rio Grande in 1840. Today, visitors can stop by to see what it was like to live during that time period.
Villa Antigua Border Heritage Museum
The Villa Antigua Border Heritage Museum is another Laredo historic home. It once served as the residence of two early merchant families. It is a two-story brick Italianate style residence that was constructed in 1916. It is massive in size and situated along the banks of the Rio Grande. It offers changing exhibits and educational seminars that provide information on the region’s history and culture.
Laredo Center for the Arts
Laredo Center for the Arts is a terrific venue for art exhibitions and dance, musical and theatrical performances. It offers three galleries, the Goodman Gallery, the Lilia G. Martinez Gallery and the Community Gallery. Check out what’s happening at the Center when you’re in town.
If you are looking to get out of town this holiday season, Laredo is the place to go. With so much to see and do, you are bound to have a terrific time. Which of these activities sounds most appealing to you?
#LaredoChristmas #HolidayInLaredo #TexasChristmas #LaredoLights #FestiveLaredo #TexanHoliday #ChristmasOnTheBorder #HolidayTravel #TravelTexas #ChristmasInLaredo
Regenerate
