You have heard that everything is BIG in Texas. Well, now the holidays are here! From the Battleship TEXAS to the top of Ranger Peak in El Paso, Christmas comes alive in many Texas State Parks in December.

Sampling of Events Scheduled in December in Texas State Parks

For complete information visit the website of Texas State Parks and Wildlife

December 2005 — Battleship Texas SHS — Yuletide Texas — See the Battleship TEXAS adorned with lights, ornaments and decorations in the spirit of the season. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; fees free for Texas State Parks Pass members, $7 non-members, $4 senior citizens, free for children 12 and under (281) 479-2431.

Dec. 9–11, 2005 — Lake Mineral Wells SP and Trailway — Cross Timbers Cowboy Campfire Christmas — Saturday night at the Lone Star Amphitheater you will see a campfire program of cowboy music, poetry and sing-alongs. Campfire program 6-8 p.m., drive through light display dusk-10 p.m. (940) 328-1171.

Dec. 10 and 17, 2005 — Texas State Railroad SP — Victorian Christmas Train — Enjoy good food, song, stories and of course, Santa Claus and his elves aboard the Texas State RR. 4-6 p.m.; fees $25 adults, $10 children 5-13, free for children under 5; dates subject to change; reservations required, (800) 659-3484. (800) 442-8951.

Dec. 10, 2005 — Stephen F. Austin SP — Pancake Breakfast with Santa — Homemade pancakes complete with sausage, juice and coffee, and SANTA. 8-10:30 a.m.; fee $3 per person (979) 885-3613.

Dec. 17–19, 22—23, 2005 — Wyler Aerial Tramway SP — Santa at Ranger Peak — Santa waits at the top of Ranger Peak in El Paso for children to deliver their letters and to take their picture with him. Noon-5 p.m.; fees $7 adults, $4 children 4-12, children 3 and under free (915) 562-9899.

Dec. 22, 2005 — Barton Warnock Environmental Education Center — Christmas on the Border — Come see cactus and Christmas lights, caroling cowboys and cowgirls, folklorico dancers, the Community Choir and Papa Noel at the West Texas Borderlands Celebration in Lajitas. 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Entry fees are waived for the special event, but donations are welcomed. (432) 424-3327.