2025 Holiday Guide
2025 Guide
Celebrate the holidays in one of America's Best Historic Small Towns, Abilene, on December 5-7, 2025!
Step back in time with the 48th Annual Heritage Homes Association's Homes for the Holidays Tour, an Old-Fashioned Christmas at the Dickinson County Historical Society, and a Cowboy Christmas at Old Abilene Town.
Explore the historic Seelye Mansion, adorned with over 60 dazzling Christmas trees, and take a festive ride on the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad's Cowtown Santa Express. Catch a live holiday performance of Holiday Inn at Great Plains Theatre, and cruise through town to marvel at Griswold-style decorations during the Cowtown Christmas Light Showdown.
Plus, don’t forget to shop small and support Abilene’s local businesses all season long!
See a list of activities at www.AbileneKansas.org/Christmas.
Additional details coming soon!
Friday, December 5
All Day — Christmas Tree Lane
Follow Christmas Tree Lane through Abilene on N. Buckeye Ave to NW 3rd Street to see a beautiful assortment of decorated Christmas Trees in residential yardss.
5 p.m. — Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad - Cowtown Santa Express
Discover the magic of the holiday season on the rails! The Abilene and Smoky Valley’s Cowtown Santa Express sparkles with the glow of the Christmas season, as our antique passenger coaches sparkle with holiday lights and the warm smiles of kids of all ages as our annual Christmas tradition returns to the rails of the A&SV. Last year, over four thousand people rode the Express to usher in the holiday season, and this year, you can discover the magic of Christmas on the rails for yourself! Cookies and hot chocolate, the music of the season, and of course Santa himself, as he makes his 2025 holiday debut on the train. Trains begin November 22 and run through December 23. It’s Kansas’ best Christmas celebration! Eveland Creek tickets are sold by the Table of 4, Chicago and Enterprise tickts are sold by the individually.
Your new Family tradition: The Cowtown Santa Express on the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad!
6 p.m. - 8 p.m. — Old Fashioned Christmas at Dickinson County Heritage Center
Step into the spirit of the season during Old-Fashioned Christmas at the Dickinson County Heritage Center on December 5 from 6–8 p.m. Enjoy a festive 4-H tree-decorating contest, visit the one-room School House for hands-on kids’ crafts, and meet the friendly family in the historic cabin. Savor traditional German goodies from the Abilene German Club and explore a lively bazaar filled with homemade crafts and baked treats. Tap your toes to live music from the Jammers in Heritage Hall, delight in the bell choir and carolers, and warm up with free cookies and hot chocolate in the Ag Building. Don’t miss carousel rides, a visit with Santa Claus, and tasty popcorn at the blacksmith shop. This heartwarming celebration is the perfect way to welcome the holiday season in Abilene!
5 p.m. — Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad - Cowtown Santa Express
Discover the magic of the holiday season on the rails! The Abilene and Smoky Valley’s Cowtown Santa Express sparkles with the glow of the Christmas season, as our antique passenger coaches sparkle with holiday lights and the warm smiles of kids of all ages as our annual Christmas tradition returns to the rails of the A&SV. Last year, over four thousand people rode the Express to usher in the holiday season, and this year, you can discover the magic of Christmas on the rails for yourself! Cookies and hot chocolate, the music of the season, and of course Santa himself, as he makes his 2025 holiday debut on the train. Trains begin November 22 and run through December 23. It’s Kansas’ best Christmas celebration! Eveland Creek tickets are sold by the Table of 4, Chicago and Enterprise tickts are sold by the individually.
Your new Family tradition: The Cowtown Santa Express on the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad!
7:30 p.m. — Irving Berlin's Holiday Inn The Musical at Great Plains Theatre
Irving Berlin's Holiday Inn tells the story of Jim, who leaves the bright lights of show business behind to settle down on his farmhouse in Connecticut... but life just isn't the same without a bit of song and dance. Jim's luck takes a spectacular turn when he meets Linda, a spirited schoolteacher with talent to spare. Together they turn the farmhouse into a fabulous inn with dazzling performances to celebrate each holiday, from Thanksgiving to the Fourth of July. But when Jim's best friend Ted tries to lure Linda to Hollywood to be his new dance partner, will Jim be able to salvage his latest chance at love?
Based on the classic film, this joyous musical features thrilling dance numbers, laugh-out-loud comedy and a parade of hit Irving Berlin songs, including "Blue Skies," "Easter Parade," "Steppin' Out With My Baby," "Heat Wave," "White Christmas," "Be Careful, It's My Heart," "Cheek to Cheek," "Shaking the Blues Away" and many more! This production is rated G, perfect for the whole family!
Saturday, December 6
All Day — Christmas Tree Lane
Follow Christmas Tree Lane through Abilene on N. Buckeye Ave to NW 3rd Street to see a beautiful assortment of decorated Christmas Trees in residential yards.
9 a.m. - 10 a.m. — Breakfast with Santa
Breakfast will include biscuts and gravy with juice. There will be crafts and story time, and of course your chance to visit with Santa Claus.
Location: Abilene High School Football Field Mezzanine
Tickets must be purchased by Monday, December 2.
9 a.m. - 4 p.m. — 50th Annual Abilene HandCrafters Winter Market
Come out and celebrate 50 yaers of quality hand crafted products. Location: Sterl Hall, 619 N Rogers St.
T.B.D. — Festival of Trees at VFW
Location: 317 N Spruce Street
2 p.m. — Irving Berlin's Holiday Inn The Musical at Great Plains Theatre
Irving Berlin's Holiday Inn tells the story of Jim, who leaves the bright lights of show business behind to settle down on his farmhouse in Connecticut... but life just isn't the same without a bit of song and dance. Jim's luck takes a spectacular turn when he meets Linda, a spirited schoolteacher with talent to spare. Together they turn the farmhouse into a fabulous inn with dazzling performances to celebrate each holiday, from Thanksgiving to the Fourth of July. But when Jim's best friend Ted tries to lure Linda to Hollywood to be his new dance partner, will Jim be able to salvage his latest chance at love?
Based on the classic film, this joyous musical features thrilling dance numbers, laugh-out-loud comedy and a parade of hit Irving Berlin songs, including "Blue Skies," "Easter Parade," "Steppin' Out With My Baby," "Heat Wave," "White Christmas," "Be Careful, It's My Heart," "Cheek to Cheek," "Shaking the Blues Away" and many more! This production is rated G, perfect for the whole family!
3 p.m. — Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad - Cowtown Santa Express
Discover the magic of the holiday season on the rails! The Abilene and Smoky Valley’s Cowtown Santa Express sparkles with the glow of the Christmas season, as our antique passenger coaches sparkle with holiday lights and the warm smiles of kids of all ages as our annual Christmas tradition returns to the rails of the A&SV. Last year, over four thousand people rode the Express to usher in the holiday season, and this year, you can discover the magic of Christmas on the rails for yourself! Cookies and hot chocolate, the music of the season, and of course Santa himself, as he makes his 2025 holiday debut on the train. Trains begin November 22 and run through December 23. It’s Kansas’ best Christmas celebration! Eveland Creek tickets are sold by the Table of 4, Chicago and Enterprise tickts are sold by the individually.
Your new Family tradition: The Cowtown Santa Express on the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad!
3 p.m. - 6 p.m. — Cowboy Christmas at Old Abilene Town
Saddle up for a merry afternoon at Old Abilene Town’s Cowboy Christmas! Celebrate the season with homemade chili, warm cinnamon rolls, hot cocoa, kids crafts, and a festive photo spot that’s perfect for family photos. It’s a cozy way to kick off winter fun. Join us December 6 from 3 to 6 pm in the Alamo and enjoy a cheerful holiday gathering in true Abilene style.
4 p.m. - 8 p.m. — 48th Homes for the Holidays Tour
Deck the Halls: Explore Abilene’s Historic Homes This Holiday Season
Get ready to celebrate the season with a festive journey through Abilene's finest homes and a historic church during the 48th Homes for the Holidays Tour! Join us on Saturday, December 6, 2025, from 4-8 p.m. or Sunday, December 7, 2025, from 1-5 p.m. to experience the warmth and charm of these unique spaces.
From twinkling holiday displays to timeless architectural details, each stop offers its own charm and story.
Tickets will be available starting fall 2025 at West's Plaza Country Mart (1900 N. Buckeye Ave), Abilene Downtown Antiques / Mud Creek Antiques (313 & 319 N. Buckeye Ave), and online at www.LittleTownofMansions.com. Tickets will also be available during the tour at Trinity Lutheran Church.
Celebrate the magic of the season with us and discover the stories and history behind these stunning homes and landmarks on this festive holiday tour.
Proceeds from the Homes for the Holidays Tour support the Heritage Homes Association’s bronze plaque program.
4 p.m. - 8 p.m. — Old Fashioned Christmas at Dickinson County Heritage Center
Celebrate the season at Old Fashioned Christmas on December 6 from 4–8 p.m. at the Dickinson County Heritage Center. Experience a beautiful live Nativity and enjoy festive performances in Heritage Hall by fiddlers, Cauy Hayes, and the Abilene High School choir. Admire the creative entries in the 4-H tree-decorating contest, make holiday crafts in the School House, and visit with the family in the historic cabin. Shop the bazaar filled with homemade crafts and baked goodies, and savor traditional treats from the Abilene German Club. Warm up with free cookies and hot chocolate in the Ag Building, say hello to Santa Claus, and enjoy fresh popcorn at the blacksmith shop. It is a wonderful evening filled with holiday cheer!
4:30 p.m. — 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 p.m. — *SOLD OUT* 2025 Smoky Valley Limited Dinner with Mrs Claus and Great Plains Theatre
It’s a taste of the coming holiday season with a “double feature” on the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad! On Saturday, December 6, our Christmas dinner train will be truly special, since it’s hosted not by Santa, but by MRS. CLAUS, who takes the spotlight in hosting a great holiday meal! And that afternoon there’s a great matinee at the Great Plains Theater, featuring Irving Berlin’s “White Christmas.” The matinee begins at 2:00 p.m., followed by dinner on the Smoky Valley Limited’s Eveland Creek car at 5:00 p.m. The dinner and theater package is $120 per person, only available by calling the Great Plains Theater box office at 785-263-4574. But if you just want dinner, you can purchase your Smoky Valley Limited dinner tickets at asvrr.org. Mrs. Claus will be there with our caterer, Broadway Station in Herington, presenting a classic holiday season meal, featuring Italian chopped salad, your choice of prime rib OR sugar glazed ham, bacon wrapped green beans and baked potato, with a generous portion of Mrs. Claus’ cheesecake. Complimentary tea or water will accompany the meal. Our train will be decked in lights with holiday decorations and a warm glow in our three classic dining cars. This holiday adventure begins at 5:00 p.m., departing from Abilene’s Rock Island Depot for a round trip that features a stop at the Hoffman Mill and General Store in Enterprise. Mrs. Claus invites you to usher in the holiday season in a special way—and if you’ve been good this year, maybe Santa will make an appearance, too. Don’t miss “A Taste of Christmas with Mrs. Claus” on the Smoky Valley Limited!
NOTE: If you purchase dinner tickets without the theater performance, you will be assigned to the Chicago and Enterprise cars, as the Eveland Creek car has been reserved for Great Plains Theater patrons.
7 p.m. — Mayor's Holiday Tree Lighting at Little Ike Park
7 p.m. — Santa arrives at Little Ike Park
7:30 p.m. — AHS Singers perform at Little Ike Park
7:30 p.m. — Turn in Cowtown Christmas Light Showdown Ballots
Location: Amanda's Bakery & Bistro, 302 N Broadway
7:30 p.m. — Irving Berlin's Holiday Inn The Musical at Great Plains Theatre
Irving Berlin's Holiday Inn tells the story of Jim, who leaves the bright lights of show business behind to settle down on his farmhouse in Connecticut... but life just isn't the same without a bit of song and dance. Jim's luck takes a spectacular turn when he meets Linda, a spirited schoolteacher with talent to spare. Together they turn the farmhouse into a fabulous inn with dazzling performances to celebrate each holiday, from Thanksgiving to the Fourth of July. But when Jim's best friend Ted tries to lure Linda to Hollywood to be his new dance partner, will Jim be able to salvage his latest chance at love?
Based on the classic film, this joyous musical features thrilling dance numbers, laugh-out-loud comedy and a parade of hit Irving Berlin songs, including "Blue Skies," "Easter Parade," "Steppin' Out With My Baby," "Heat Wave," "White Christmas," "Be Careful, It's My Heart," "Cheek to Cheek," "Shaking the Blues Away" and many more! This production is rated G, perfect for the whole family!
8 p.m. — Cowtown Christmas Light Showdown Winner Announcement
Cowtowtown Christmas Light Showdown winners will be announced on site between 8:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.
- 1st Place - $2,000 — West's Plaza Country Mart & AC Westside Market
- 2nd Place - $1,000 — ______________
- 3rd Place - $500 — Brierton Engineering
- Mayor's Choice (3) $100 — City of Abilene
Sunday, December 7
All Day — Christmas Tree Lane
Follow Christmas Tree Lane through Abilene on N. Buckeye Ave to NW 3rd Street to see a beautiful assortment of decorated Christmas Trees in residential yards.
1 p.m. - 5 p.m. — 48th Homes for the Holidays Tour
Deck the Halls: Explore Abilene’s Historic Homes This Holiday Season
Get ready to celebrate the season with a festive journey through Abilene's finest homes and a historic church during the 48th Homes for the Holidays Tour! Join us on Saturday, December 6, 2025, from 4-8 p.m. or Sunday, December 7, 2025, from 1-5 p.m. to experience the warmth and charm of these unique spaces.
From twinkling holiday displays to timeless architectural details, each stop offers its own charm and story.
Tickets will be available starting fall 2025 at West's Plaza Country Mart (1900 N. Buckeye Ave), Abilene Downtown Antiques / Mud Creek Antiques (313 & 319 N. Buckeye Ave), and online at www.LittleTownofMansions.com. Tickets will also be available during the tour at Trinity Lutheran Church.
Celebrate the magic of the season with us and discover the stories and history behind these stunning homes and landmarks on this festive holiday tour.
Proceeds from the Homes for the Holidays Tour support the Heritage Homes Association’s bronze plaque program.
2 p.m. — Irving Berlin's Holiday Inn The Musical at Great Plains Theatre
Irving Berlin's Holiday Inn tells the story of Jim, who leaves the bright lights of show business behind to settle down on his farmhouse in Connecticut... but life just isn't the same without a bit of song and dance. Jim's luck takes a spectacular turn when he meets Linda, a spirited schoolteacher with talent to spare. Together they turn the farmhouse into a fabulous inn with dazzling performances to celebrate each holiday, from Thanksgiving to the Fourth of July. But when Jim's best friend Ted tries to lure Linda to Hollywood to be his new dance partner, will Jim be able to salvage his latest chance at love?
Based on the classic film, this joyous musical features thrilling dance numbers, laugh-out-loud comedy and a parade of hit Irving Berlin songs, including "Blue Skies," "Easter Parade," "Steppin' Out With My Baby," "Heat Wave," "White Christmas," "Be Careful, It's My Heart," "Cheek to Cheek," "Shaking the Blues Away" and many more! This production is rated G, perfect for the whole family!
3 p.m. — Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad Cowtown Santa Express
Discover the magic of the holiday season on the rails! The Abilene and Smoky Valley’s Cowtown Santa Express sparkles with the glow of the Christmas season, as our antique passenger coaches sparkle with holiday lights and the warm smiles of kids of all ages as our annual Christmas tradition returns to the rails of the A&SV. Last year, over four thousand people rode the Express to usher in the holiday season, and this year, you can discover the magic of Christmas on the rails for yourself! Cookies and hot chocolate, the music of the season, and of course Santa himself, as he makes his 2025 holiday debut on the train. Trains begin November 22 and run through December 23. It’s Kansas’ best Christmas celebration! Eveland Creek tickets are sold by the Table of 4, Chicago and Enterprise tickts are sold by the individually.
Your new Family tradition: The Cowtown Santa Express on the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad!
5 p.m. — Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad Cowtown Santa Express
Discover the magic of the holiday season on the rails! The Abilene and Smoky Valley’s Cowtown Santa Express sparkles with the glow of the Christmas season, as our antique passenger coaches sparkle with holiday lights and the warm smiles of kids of all ages as our annual Christmas tradition returns to the rails of the A&SV. Last year, over four thousand people rode the Express to usher in the holiday season, and this year, you can discover the magic of Christmas on the rails for yourself! Cookies and hot chocolate, the music of the season, and of course Santa himself, as he makes his 2025 holiday debut on the train. Trains begin November 22 and run through December 23. It’s Kansas’ best Christmas celebration! Eveland Creek tickets are sold by the Table of 4, Chicago and Enterprise tickts are sold by the individually.
Your new Family tradition: The Cowtown Santa Express on the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad!