When the holiday season rolls around, Elizabethtown transforms into a cozy Christmas wonderland, and I couldn’t be more excited to share some of the best events to check out this year. If you’re like me and love bundling up, sipping hot cocoa, and diving into festive things, you’re in for a treat. From sparkling lights to cheerful parades, there’s something for everyone in our charming town. Here’s a guide to some Christmas events that will be sure to make you merry.
Christmas In The Park
One of my absolute favorite holiday traditions here in Etown has to be driving through Christmas in the Park at Freeman Lake. Can you believe it’s been going strong for 34 years now? Every season, the park gets all decked out with thousands of twinkling lights and the cutest displays—you just can’t help but feel the holiday magic.
Whether you’re bringing along family, catching up with friends, or just soaking up a little holiday spirit on your own, this event is a must-do. And the best part? It’s totally free! You’ve got from November 27, 2024, to January 1, 2025, to catch the lights every evening from 6 PM to 11 PM. I have to confess, I’ve been known to swing by more than once in a season just to get another dose of holiday cheer.
Light Up Etown
Y’all, the holiday season officially kicks off with the annual Light Up Etown festivities, and I can hardly wait! This year, it’s all happening on Friday evening, December 6, 2024, with the parade at 7 PM sharp. The downtown streets are gonna be bustling with festive floats, marching bands, jolly holiday mascots, and, of course, the big guy himself—Santa! The parade wraps up right near the square, just in time for the lighting of the Christmas tree.
Folks from all over bundle up in their winter coats and hats, gathering together downtown to join in the countdown for the giant Christmas tree lighting. The air is filled with the sounds of carolers, and when that tree lights up, the cheers are enough to give you the best kind of chills. It’s a magical, feel-good moment that you don’t want to miss!
It’s the perfect evening to bring the family—and don’t forget to invite those out-of-town relatives for a taste of Etown’s holiday spirit. Now, a little tip from me to you—get there early to snag a good spot, and don’t forget a cozy blanket to keep warm while you wave at the floats. You’ll probably find me with a steaming cup of cocoa in hand, soaking up every bit of the Christmas spirit and feeling all the love this community brings.
Christmas At The State
Oh, there's just something so magical about cozying up with family watching those timeless Christmas classics! Every weekend through December, The State Theater is rolling out the holiday favorites—from the heartwarming "It's A Wonderful Life" that makes you feel all warm and nostalgic, to the bright and lively "Grinch" that has us all giggling like kids again.
I have to say, there's just something about those movies that wraps me up in a big ol’ blanket of holiday cheer. Whether it's the sound of sleigh bells or that classic scene where George Bailey realizes he's had a wonderful life after all—these films take me back to the joy of Christmases past. The State Theater’s lineup has a little something for everyone, and it's the perfect excuse to get out and share some holiday magic together.
You can find the full list of Christmas movies playing this season right here.
Breakfast with Santa
There’s nothing quite like the look of pure joy on a child’s face when they get to meet Santa up close! The Historic State Theater is pulling out all the stops with their Breakfast With Santa on Saturday morning, December 7, 2024. It’s going to be a fantastic morning!
Each little one gets to enjoy a yummy breakfast with Santa, pose for a keepsake photo with the jolly man himself, and dive into a fun holiday craft activity. And that’s not all—they’ll also get a ticket to one of those classic Christmas movies playing at the theater throughout the season. Now that’s what I call holiday magic!
But don’t wait too long to snag your ticket, friends—this is one event you don’t want to miss out on!
A Christmas Carol On Stage
If you're anything like me and you love a good stage play of a Christmas classic, then you have to check out the Hardin County Playhouse’s performance of A Christmas Carol! There’s just nothing like seeing all the beloved characters come to life on stage. You’ll laugh along with the Ghost of Christmas Present and his merry antics, and I guarantee there will be a few happy tears when old Scrooge gets his second chance on Christmas morning. It’s the perfect excuse to grab some friends and make it a festive night out! Be sure to snag those seats before they’re gone!
