Family Activities for the Holiday Break

With the holiday break right around the corner, it’s time to plan your itinerary, go outside – safely and responsibly – and breath in the crisp winter air! If you are anything like my mom, you might be in need of some ideas to help entertain the little ones with lots of energy. Between the arts and crafts and outdoor activities, put our favorite “Hub City” holiday activities that are both fun and safe for the whole family to the test! Whether you are looking for adventure, finding the sweetest festive treat to share or tapping into your creative side, we’ve got you covered! 

Christmas in the Park
Over 50,000 sparkling lights illuminate Adventure Park while guests race around the track, show off their putting skills and put their inner Survivor to the test on the ropes course. Each Friday in December, make your reservations with the one and only Father Christmas! For only $6 per person, enjoy a slice a pizza whipped up by Rudolf himself, a drink from the chillest spot in the North Pole and a s’mores kit! It’s time to bust our the Christmas jammies and throw on your favorite slippers. Santa is waiting! 

Gingerbread Village at the Overton Hotel and Conference Center
In partnership with the Texas Boys Ranch, The Overton Hotel and Conference Center has created Lubbock’s largest gingerbread village! Take the kiddos on an adventure filled with life-size gingerbread, lollipops and, of course, our favorite jolly man in a red suit! On Saturday, Dec. 12 from 8 – 11 a.m., the second annual pancakes and pajamas with Santa will welcome believers of all ages. Stop by for a socially-distanced photo with Old St. Nick and build your own pancakes! Reservations are $20 for adults, $10 for children and 4 and under complimentary. ‘Tis the season of giving and $5 of each ticket sold will benefit Texas Boys Ranch.

Holidays on the Homefront
This season, the Silent Wings Museum (SWM) is hosting a month-long event, Holidays on the Homefront. At-home activities for all ages are available to Lubbock locals looking to sneak in educational projects to their child’s schedule while at home. According to the SWM website, during World War II, soldiers would make crafts to send home to their loved ones. The SWM invites all in the community to create ornaments with objects you already have! You can submit and drop-off your masterpiece to the museum from December 8th-13th from 10AM-5PM. Visit the link above for more activities! 

LHUCA Affordable Art Sale
There is no better way to support our community than by shopping local for holiday gifts this season. At the LHUCA Affordable Art Sale, this is the perfect opportunity to view a vast selection from local artists in a variety of mediums. Whether you, or who you are buying for, are an established collector or looking to buy your first piece of original art, this is the event for you! Each piece is priced under $300. To view the sale, visit their website. LHUCA is also open to the public Thursday – Saturday from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

J’s Creamery
Home to arguably the city’s richest and creamiest hot chocolate, J’s Creamery is the ideal stop to kick off a night of fun and is the cherry on top of an evening you’ll never forget. From concretes, shakes and sundaes, your sweet tooth will thank you with every bite. Try our favorite holiday flavors on their seasonal list including the Pecan Cobbler Sundae.  

Crave Dessert Bar
It’s no secret that this time of year is where pie takes center stage. At Crave Dessert Bar, you are sure to find the perfect slice. Take your family to experience this local favorite filled with the best treats from across the country. If pie isn’t everyone’s favorite sweet treat (which I personally can’t fathom), the menu is filled with delectable sweets from macaroons and cheesecake to crepes and pudding. Crave Dessert Bar has something everyone in the family can enjoy. Whether you are a cake or pie person (or both), each sugary dessert will have you craving more!

Bonus Tip: Take a drive to Ransom Canyon to check out the Christmas lights. From the beautiful views as far as the eye can see to the magical houses lighting the streets, this will become a favorite family tradition. Don’t forget the hot chocolate and cookies!

This Christmas break will be one they’ll never forget. For more ideas, be sure to check visitlubbock.org/events to stay up-to-date on the latest “Hub City” happenings. Share your favorite family memory this season with us by using #LiveLoveLubbock!