By: Sean Robertson
Join the National Ranching Heritage Center (NRHC) in Lubbock, Texas, this December as they celebrate the season during the 46th Annual Candlelight at the Ranch. Taking place on Friday, Dec. 13, and Saturday, Dec. 14, from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., this beloved community tradition offers an enchanting evening where history meets holiday cheer — a free, family-friendly celebration in the heart of winter!
Step into the Past
Roaming through the candle-lit paths, you’ll journey back in time through 15 historic buildings aglow with festive decorations. Each building is brought to life by volunteers in period costumes, acting out scenes from Texas’s past. Picture children baking gingerbread and trimming a tree, families stringing popcorn garlands, all while Holiday music fills the air. Highlights include the 1838 El Capote Log Cabin, 1886 XIT Ranch headquarters, 1888 Matador Half-Dugout, and the 1909 Queen-Anne-style Barton House, each one warmly welcoming you into the magic of Texas Holiday traditions.
For an extra treat, stop by the German home, where a choir often sings carols, adding old-world charm to the evening. It’s like stepping into a winter wonderland, Texas-style!
Soak Up the Yuletide Offerings
- Live Music and Dance: The 6666 Barn will feature Texas-style Christmas tunes. Kids and families can dance to the music or sip on hot cocoa and cider.
- Santa’s Visit: Little ones can meet Santa Claus at the Pitchfork Pavilion for a memorable holiday experience.
- Festive Treats: Enjoy classic treats like popcorn, gingerbread, and other holiday favorites for sale.
The NRHC is fully prepared to offer you a cozy experience, with warm spots like the 6666 Barn, equipped with heaters, and the main museum filled with holiday shopping options and choir performances.
The Show Must Go On – Weather Plans
Candlelight at the Ranch usually continues unless severe weather requires a cancellation, but a cold front or even light snow won’t stop it. Many locals say braving the West Texas winter adds to the holiday spirit. The NRHC ensures a memorable experience with heaters and warm spots scattered across the grounds.
Getting There: Parking and Shuttle Information
Parking is available at the UMC Medical Center at Fourth Street and Indiana Avenue, with Citibus shuttles running a loop to the NRHC starting at 6:15 p.m. for convenient access to all the holiday fun.
Get Involved with the Ranch Hosts
Love history and the holiday season. Consider joining the NRHC’s Ranch Hosts! As a Ranch Host, you’ll help bring events like Candlelight at the Ranch to life. Volunteers receive training and can serve as docents, participate in living history programs, and more. Adults and families (children accompanied by an adult) are welcome to apply.
Wrap up your holiday season by joining us at Candlelight at the Ranch to create memories that will last a lifetime. Dive into the magic of Christmas in Lubbock’s favorite holiday tradition this December!
To visit the National Ranching Heritage Center’s website, click HERE.
