• December 4, 2025
• af3-admin

After all the late-night study sessions and final projects, the holiday season in Lubbock, Texas, is a welcome change of pace. The city comes alive with festive energy, offering Texas Tech University (TTU) students the perfect excuse to take a break and make some memories.

Whether you’re looking for a spooky thrill, a traditional Christmas market, or a place to ring in the new year, the Hub City has you covered. And with a convenient spot at Park East, you’re perfectly positioned to dive into all the local holiday events without missing a beat.

Key Takeaways

• Lubbock offers a diverse range of holiday events, from Halloween haunts to festive Christmas markets and New Year’s Eve parties.
• Plan ahead for popular ticketed events like the Junior League of Lubbock’s Holiday Happening, as they can sell out quickly.
• There are plenty of free activities to enjoy, including spectacular Christmas light displays throughout the city.
• Living at Park East places you in a central location, making it easy to explore all the holiday fun the Hub City has to offer.

Spooky Season: Halloween Events in Lubbock

Before the twinkling lights go up, Lubbock gets into the spooky spirit with plenty of Halloween fun, perfect for a student budget and schedule.

Haunted Houses and Thrilling Experiences

If you’re looking for a good scare, local haunts deliver. Attractions like Nightmare on 19th Street are a rite of passage, offering terrifyingly fun experiences that are perfect for a weekend outing with friends.

For those of drinking age looking for Halloween fun, there is the Lubbock Halloween Pub Crawl. This event offers contests and prizes and is a great way to explore downtown. Just note that a mobile device is required for check-in, and tickets must be purchased in advance online.

Keep an eye out for special events and theme nights, and find the latest spooky events happening in Lubbock to plan your fright night.

Pumpkin Patches and Fall Festivals

For a more laid-back autumn vibe, check out local spots. The Lubbock Memorial Arboretum hosts a free Pumpkin Trail, which features fall decorations and thousands of carved pumpkins. It’s a great spot for photo ops and a relaxing walk.

Other places like At’l Do Farms offer classic fall activities such as corn mazes, hayrides, and pumpkin patches, which are perfect for a relaxing afternoon with friends.

As a resident of Park East, you’re located conveniently close to all the fall fun, making it easy to pop over for an afternoon.

A Very Lubbock Christmas: Lights, Markets, and More

When winter break approaches, Lubbock transforms into a festive wonderland. From cherished campus traditions to city-wide celebrations, there’s something to get everyone in the holiday spirit.

Annual Traditions You Can’t Miss

The Carol of Lights at Texas Tech is an absolute must-do. Every year, thousands gather to watch the campus glow with over 25,000 lights. The live music and collective cheer make it an unforgettable experience for every TTU student.

Another local favorite is Santa Land at Mackenzie Park. This free, drive-thru or walk-thru event run by the City of Lubbock is filled with charming light displays and a chance to see Santa himself.

For more holiday inspiration, check out this guide to Christmas in Lubbock.

Specialty Ticketed Events

For a premier holiday shopping experience, the Junior League of Lubbock’s Holiday Happening is the main event. Held at the Lubbock Memorial Civic Center at 1501 Mac Davis Lane, this festive market is a major fundraiser for community projects. It features unique vendors, special events, and even a week-long online auction.

You can also get your tickets for Christmas at the Park for another fun-filled option. Adventure Park hosts a special event with live music, dazzling lights, crafts, campfires, s’mores, and other holiday fun.

Free Festive Fun & Light Displays

Looking for festive fun that won’t break the bank? Take a drive through Ransom Canyon, a neighborhood famous for its spectacular resident-decorated light displays. Many local churches and community groups also host free concerts and performances throughout the season. You can explore even more holiday events happening across the South Plains.

Ringing in the New Year in West Texas

End the year on a high note by celebrating New Year’s Eve right here in Lubbock. Whether you’re looking for a big party or a quiet night, there’s a celebration for you.

NYE Parties and Concerts

For the 21+ crowd, many local bars and music venues in the Depot Entertainment District host exciting New Year’s Eve parties. You can expect live music, dancing, and a champagne toast at midnight. These events are popular, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead and check venue calendars for the latest party details.

A More Relaxed Celebration

If a crowded bar isn’t your scene, plan a more low-key New Year’s Eve. Enjoy a special dinner at one of Lubbock’s great restaurants or host a small get-together with your closest friends. At Park East, our community amenities are perfect for hosting friends and ringing in 2025 in style.

FAQs: Your Lubbock Holiday Event Guide

What are the biggest holiday events near Texas Tech?

The most iconic event is the Carol of Lights right on the TTU campus. Other major events popular with students include the Junior League of Lubbock’s Holiday Happening and exploring Santa Land at Mackenzie Park.

Where can I see the best Christmas lights for free in Lubbock?

Santa Land in Mackenzie Park is a fantastic free drive-thru or walk-thru display. The Texas Tech campus is beautifully lit after the Carol of Lights. For an impressive neighborhood experience, take a drive through Ransom Canyon.

How do I get tickets for Holiday Happening?

Tickets for Holiday Happening, including general admission and special events like Ladies’ Day Brunch, can be purchased online through the Junior League of Lubbock’s official website. It’s best to buy them in advance as this is a very popular event.

What are some low budget holiday events?

Lubbock has plenty of options for festive fun that won’t break the bank. Many of the most popular events are free, including the Carol of Lights, the Pumpkin Trail, and the Santa Land light display. You can also take a drive through the light displays in Ransom Canyon for free. You could also check out Groupon and other discount sites for deals on local events.

How can I find out about events not listed here?

To find more events, keep an eye on official event calendars for Lubbock. Websites like Eventbrite and the Lubbock Cultural District are great resources.

You should also follow social media pages for Texas Tech University’s Student Union and Campus Events, as they often post about student-specific holiday gatherings and activities.

Local news outlets like the Lubbock Avalanche-Journal frequently publish comprehensive holiday guides.

Your Holiday Home Base at Park East

Living at Park East means you’re never far from the action. Our prime location provides easy access to the TTU campus, downtown Lubbock, and major venues like the Civic Center, so you can spend less time commuting and more time celebrating.

During finals week, our quiet study lounges offer the perfect place to focus. And when it’s time to celebrate, our social spaces are ideal for holiday gatherings with friends.

Ready to see it for yourself? Find your new home for the holidays and schedule a tour today!