Plan Your Perfect Holiday Getaway: A Cowtown Christmas Itinerary
December 7-8, 2024
Step into the heartwarming charm of Abilene, Kansas—named USA TODAY’s Best Historic Small Town! During the holiday season, Abilene comes alive with the enchanting feel of a Hallmark Christmas movie. From twinkling lights along Christmas Tree Lane and nostalgic traditions to festive events and small-town hospitality, Abilene is the perfect destination to make magical holiday memories.
Saturday, December 7
8:30 AM – Start Your Day with Breakfast
Kick off your weekend with a sweet or savory breakfast in downtown Abilene. Choose between Amanda’s Bakery & Bistro for homemade pastries or Susie’s Deli for a cozy, classic start to the day.
9:00 AM – Explore the 49th Annual Abilene Holiday Craft Show
Head to Sterl Hall for a treasure trove of handcrafted gifts, perfect for everyone on your holiday shopping list.
10:00 AM – Christmas Vendor Open House
Visit Sand Springs Venue for their 7th Annual Christmas Vendor Open House. Browse festive booths, admire the venue’s charm, and enjoy holiday shopping in this picturesque space. Planning a wedding? Sand Springs Venue is Abilene’s premier spot to host your special day, with an elegant setting perfect for creating lasting memories.
11:00 AM – Festival of Trees & Local Shopping
Stop by Rivendell Bookstore to bid on beautifully decorated trees and wreaths supporting Abilene CARES. Then, explore Abilene’s unique local shops, like RHV, Aksent Boutique, Wilken's Acres, Lumber House True Value, Rittel’s Western Wear, antique stores, and more to find special gifts while supporting small businesses.
12:00 PM – Lunch Break
Take a midday break at M&R Grill or Ike’s 2.0. Treat yourself to a delicious salad, sandwich, or hearty meal “up town.”
2:00 PM – Catch a Matinee at Great Plains Theatre
Enjoy Forever Plaid: Plaid Tidings, a heartwarming musical filled with nostalgic harmonies and holiday cheer.
4:30 PM – Christmas Cruise for Food
Donate a canned food item to the Abilene Area Food Bank and join the Christmas Cruise to vote on the best-decorated “Griswold-style” holiday lights in the Cowtown Christmas Light Showdown. Families and friends will love the friendly competition and festive displays!
5:15 PM – Cowboy Christmas in Old Abilene Town
Step back in time as you stroll through Old Abilene Town decked out in holiday lights and Western-themed decor. With its rustic charm, it feels like stepping into a scene from your favorite holiday movie.
5:30 PM – See the “Seelye Mansion in Lights”
Step back in time with a special evening tour of the Seelye Mansion. Marvel at over 65 dazzling Christmas trees, hundreds of nutcrackers, and vintage holiday charm as the mansion comes to life with festive décor and holiday music.
6:00 PM – Dinner Options
Savor a delicious BBQ dinner at Midwest Creamery & Q or Hickok Spirits + Eats, two of Abilene’s top dining spots conveniently located near the downtown holiday action.
Not in the mood for BBQ? Head to Tossed n Sauced Pizza in downtown Abilene for mouthwatering pizza, wings and salad options!
7:00 PM – Mayor’s Holiday Tree Lighting & Fireworks
Gather at Little Ike Park for the Mayor’s Holiday Tree Lighting, live performances by the AHS Singers, Cowtown Christmas Light Showdown winner announcements, and an evening of festive fun. Stick around for the spectacular fireworks show at 8:00 PM!
8:30 PM – Nightcap at Rackets Tap House
End your night with a drink at Rackets Tap House, Abilene’s newest hotspot. Then, retire to your cozy accommodations to rest up for Day 2.
Sunday, December 8
Morning – Leisurely Start & Church Service
Enjoy a relaxed start to your day or attend a service at one of Abilene’s beautiful, historic churches to soak in the town’s holiday spirit.
12:00 PM – Family-Style Dinner at Legacy Kansas
Savor the taste of tradition at Legacy Kansas: Munson’s Prime & Brookville Hotel, where their legendary family-style fried chicken dinner has delighted families for generations.
2:00 PM – Abilene Municipal Band Christmas Concert
Celebrate the season with traditional holiday tunes performed by the Abilene Municipal Band at the Eisenhower Presidential Library & Museum’s Visitors Center.
3:00 PM – Heritage Homes Association's 47th Annual Homes for the Holidays Tour
Take a self-guided tour of beautifully decorated homes showcasing the charm and spirit of the season. This annual event is a holiday favorite and a perfect way to explore Abilene’s historic and festive side.
5:00 PM – Old-Fashioned Christmas at Dickinson County Heritage Center
Step back in time with twinkling holiday lights, live music, storytelling, crafts, and festive treats at this beloved event. Kids will love the carousel rides and visiting Santa for a truly magical experience.
7:30 PM – Ride the Cowtown Santa Express
End your evening aboard the heated train for a festive holiday ride with Santa. Sip hot chocolate, enjoy cookies, and take in the cozy ambiance of Old Abilene Town aglow with holiday lights.
Depart for Home
Make It a December to Remember!
Abilene shines as USA TODAY’s Best Historic Small Town, and during the holiday season, it sparkles with a Hallmark Christmas movie vibe. From dazzling lights and festive concerts to heartwarming traditions, Abilene is the perfect place to celebrate the season. Plan your weekend now and discover why Abilene is America’s favorite small-town holiday destination!
See a full schedule of events at www.AbileneKansas.org/Christmas.