What to watch: Rockin’ RA Carriages brings back the sparkle of horse-drawn rides through Midland Merry Lights on seven special evenings in December. Starting at 6 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 14, families can climb aboard for a cozy 30-minute tour glowing with thousands of twinkling downtown lights.

Few things capture old-fashioned holiday charm quite like the steady clop of hooves and the soft glow of carriage lights on a cool December evening. These rides give kids (and kids-at-heart) a slower, more magical way to soak in the Merry Lights display while making memories that feel straight out of the movies.

The big picture: Riders will be picked up and dropped off at the corner of Loraine Street and Texas Avenue. Rockin’ RA offers two options: a cozy 4–6 person carriage for a flat $150, or the big 12–14 person wagon at $20 per person, or $200 flat for groups over 10. Cash or Venmo is accepted right at the carriage, and rides operate on a first-come, first-served basis.

All rides begin at 6 p.m. on the following dates:

  • Sunday, Dec. 14
  • Friday, Dec. 19
  • Sunday, Dec. 21
  • Monday, Dec. 22
  • Tuesday, Dec. 23
  • Saturday, Dec. 27
  • Sunday, Dec. 28

merry lights carriage rides