What to watch: In the festive week leading up to Christmas here are the final seasonal events to make your celebrations even brighter—from artistic family gatherings and magical carriage rides to heartwarming performances that capture the true spirit of the season.

  • A Christmas Dress Rehearsal – Sun. Dec. 21, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
    Come enjoy this interpretation of a Christmas story telling brought to you by Tru Lite. During a school’s Christmas play dress rehearsal, a tough yet wise janitor guides the kids and the leader to discover the True Christmas Story.

    • Location: True-Lite Christian Fellowship – 3001 North A Street
    • Details: Tru Lite Website
  • The Nutcracker – Sunday, Dec. 21, 2 p.m.
    Midland Festival Ballet’s beloved annual production returns. The show is fun for all ages with epic battles, lands made of sweets, living toys and even fairies.

  • Mommy & Me: Love your Deerly – Sunday, Dec. 21, 2 p.m.
    Join this holiday edition Mommy & Me painting event. Create lasting moments while painting alongside those you love. One ticket admits both you and a friend—be it your child, sibling, or loved one! Enjoy an artistic session at The Studio and a keepsake artwork to cherish at home!

  • Carriage Rides at Merry Lights – Sun. Dec. 21, Mon. Dec. 22, Tue. 23, Sat. Dec. 27, starting at 6 p.m.
    Few things capture old-fashioned holiday charm quite like a horse-drawn carriage on a cool December evening. These rides come with two options—a cozy 4–6 person carriage or larger 12–14 person wagon. Cash or Venmo are accepted on-site, first-come, first-served.

  • Hayrides & Hot Cocoa – Sunday, Dec. 21, Monday Dec. 22, Tuesday Dec. 23, 6–9 p.m.
    Hitch a ride with family and friends through Grasslands Estates and enjoy the beautiful lights, cozy hot cocoa, and Christmas jams. Schedule your time slot ahead with reservations open every half hour.

  • Christmas on Main Street on Basin PBS – Wednesday, Dec. 24, 7–8 p.m.
    Don’t miss Basin PBS’ Christmas on Main Street broadcast — a night of music, laughter, and holiday cheer from West Texas performers. See the schedule and find the channel for your provider below.

  • Sleighs & Coffee – Thursday, Dec. 25, 1-3 p.m.
    Cars & Coffee on Christmas! Free entry and Coffee & Donuts, live tunes, and photos with Santa. Gather the family, kids, and your car for a relaxed event TXSR crew. Wrap up the year with positive energy, tasty coffee, and impressive rides!

  • Toddler Time: Christmas Wreath – Saturday, Dec. 27, 1-3 p.m.
    Sign your kiddos up for a last Christmas hurrah with The Studio Kidd’s & Canvas. A step-by-step guided paint party with help when needed. Different color options will be available to personalize your fun relaxed painting.

  • Midland Merry Lights: Jingle Jump Night – Tuesday, Dec. 30, 6 p.m.
    Get ready to bounce out the holiday spirit and sugar! City of Midland invites everyone to the final Merry Lights festivity, a Jingle Jump Night for all ages with giant bounce houses, slides, and a mechanical reindeer ready to test your rodeo skills.