Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year, or so the song goes. As a Texan, I've sometimes found it hard to get into the holiday spirit when it's 70 degrees and sunny outside. So here are some of the top things to do in Texas this year to get you in the holiday spirit.

1. Santa's Wonderland

Santa's Wonderland is something to marvel at. I may not be an Aggies fan but College Station just does Christmas in a very Texas-sized way. Kick off your visit with a hayride through their Texas Christmas lights display, then make your way to Santa's old western village to see his cowboy attire and get some awesome food while listening to live entertainment. They even have a petting zoo for the kids and a winery for the adults! So if you're traveling through Texas this Christmas, Aggieland should definitely be one of your stops.

2. ICE at the Gaylord Texan

The Gaylord Texan is an enormous convention center that puts all of our Pinterest decor to shame. The village-esque hotel lobby is absolutely breathtaking all year around, but during Christmas it transforms into a beautiful, mesmerizing winter wonderland. Their main event during Christmas is the ICE! exhibit, complete with ice slides and a frozen bar. The figures that the ice artists make are absolutely spectacular. If you are in the DFW area this winter and have some time on your hands, bundle up and check out ICE! at the Gaylord Texan.

3. Prairie Lights of Grand Prairie

The Prairie Lights of Grand Prairie is a MUST SEE while you're in Texas during the holiday season. It is a drive-thru light park that features over 4 million lights. Halfway through the route, make sure to stop and walk through the Holiday Village. So pile up in the car, pack some blankets, snacks and hot coco and put Prairie Lights in your GPS. I promise you won't be disappointed.

4. San Antonio Riverwalk

The San Antonio Riverwalk is a beautiful, culture-filled area that is booming with life. Throughout the year, the city holds countless festivals and events, but during Christmas, the riverwalk is lit up with millions of lights and it seems to put a little magic in the air. There are several restaurants and gift shops to enjoy, and you can even indulge in a boat ride and learn a few things about San Antonio's history. Surrounding the riverwalk, there's several missions, historical markers, and an art district to browse around. If you enjoy prickly pear margaritas and learning a few things about The Lone Star State's history, the riverwalk of San Antonio is a must see.

5. Holiday at the Dallas Arboretum

The Holiday at the Dallas Arboretum is a beautiful combination of Christmas and Mother Nature. There are special events, such as the Holiday Tea or the 12 Days of Christmas Exhibit, or you can go around trying to see Santa and his reindeer. If you enjoy walking and the outdoors, this is definitely a place to check out this Christmas.

6. The Trail of Lights in Austin Texas

The Trail of Lights in Austin is a beautiful walking lights trail about 1.5 miles long. There are several events throughout the month, including the Fun Run! If you love the holidays and 5Ks, this is the place to be! Registration is required so make sure to check out the site for more info! And while you're in Austin, be sure to check out the Capital Christmas Tree!

7. ANY of the railroads of Texas

From the Texas State railroad, which does a Texas Polar Express event every Christmas, to the Jefferson Railway, which does the Rail of Lights, there's no way to go wrong! It is such a fun experience to ride in a cart and sip on some hot coco. You can bring the kids to meet Santa, or go out for a romantic date night. Check out your local websites for more info. It is definitely worth it to check it out!

So these are just a few things that I have personally done throughout the years. Be sure to check them out and tell me what you think! Also, if you have anything to add, comment below! I would love to check our state's hidden gems out!

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