December 2014 Seasonal delight!
Holiday Lights Fantastic Texas Hill Country Regional Lighting Trail illuminates 9 local communities
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Huisache Grill in New Braunfels
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Hill Country Poetry with Ernie Lee, "Bard of the Blanco"
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Head to North Pole Village for holiday family activities
SATURDAY • DEC 13, 2014 • 5-10PM On the Wimberley Square
and mailing letters to Santa, a live nativity, a petting zoo, Frosty’s fishing hole, hay rides and caroling, an opportunity to decorate holiday bakery treats and much more. FYI • For more information about North Pole Village, call 830-964-2003 or visit the web site at crrcofcanyonlake.org. The Community Resource and Recreation Center is located at 125 Mabel Jones Drive in Canyon Lake.
CANYON LAKE H Head to the Community Resource and Recreation Center for the annual North Pole Village December 11-13 and December 18-20 from 6 pm to 9 pm. There, kids of all ages can enjoy a festive holiday atmosphere and plenty of fun activities for the Christmas season, including face painting, stations for writing
Drive-through lights park offers fun by the carload
SAN MARCOS H Santa’s Ranch drive-through park—in its 12th season—includes even more new displays and features this year, according to owner Frank Bass. He and his wife, Melanie, opened the park in 2003. Every year, Frank and his crew of Santa’s helpers work to create a Texas-sized winter wonderland — including constructing several dozen scenes, running more than 75 miles of cords, and testing the 1.5 million twinkling lights that make the park come to life each season. New this year—a concession stand with hot cocoa and snacks to enjoy during the 20 minute drive through the Christmas lights park. For a one-time visit fee of $28 per vehicle or a season pass of $56 (for unlimited visits), a Catch the holiday spirit at Santa’s Ranch drive through drive through Santa’s lights park outside San Marcos.Photo courtesy Santa’s Ranch. Ranch is a unique and economical holiday treat for families and friends to share — by the carload! FYI • Santa’s Ranch is located between New Braunfels and San Marcos, at 9561 IH-35, two miles south of Tanger Outlet Mall. From New Braunfels, go about 6 miles on IH-35 North. Take Exit 199 to the turn around and go back south on I-35 access road about 1 mile to the park entrance on the right. From San Marcos, go south on I-35 for about 2 miles to Exit 199 (Posey Road). Take the exit and stay on the access road for about 1 mile to the park entrance on the right. The park is open every night through January 3; hours are 6 pm to 10 pm Sunday through Thursday and 6 pm to 11 pm Friday and Saturday. For more information, visit the web site at www.santasranch.net or call 830-743-1293.
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Hill Country SUN December 2014 Volume 25 • Number 7 ISSN: 1524-2315 Entire contents copyright © 2014 by TD Austin Lane, Inc. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any fashion without the written consent of the publisher.
A DISTINCTIVE COLLECTION OF Fine Art in the Hill Country Kenzie, Luke and Julie Harrington
Photo by Becky Roberson Photography.
Julie Spell Harrington Publisher/Advertising 512-484-9716 julie@hillcountrysun.com Melissa Maxwell Ball Editor/Design 512-569-8212 melissa@hillcountrysun.com Ernie Altgelt Colleen Brooks Ernie Lee Writers Gerry Burns Delonn Bowie Adelle Spell Distribution
The Hill Country Sun is published monthly. For advertising rates or information, call Julie Harrington at 512-484-9716 (email julie@hillcountrysun.com). Credit cards accepted. • Circulation: 22,000. Distributed monthly to more than 450 popular Hill Country locations (see list of towns on front cover) and home delivered to all 5,276 Wimberley homes and 8,663 Dripping Springs homes by the US Postal Service. • C over : The season is bright along the Texas Hill Country Regional Christmas Lighting Trail through January 1 (See story, page 6). Clockwise from top: Marble Falls Walkway of Lights. Photo courtesy Marble Falls/ Lake LBJ Chamber of Commerce CVB. Santa makes an appearance at EmilyAnn Theatre & Gardens. Trail of Lights in Wimberley. Photo courtesy EmilyAnn Theatre & Gardens Blanco County Courthouse in Johnson City. Photo courtesy Johnson City Chamber of Commerce. Fredericksburg’s Marktplatz. Photo by T. Rawls . • Deadline for calendar events is the 15th of each month. Email events/releases to melissa@hillcountrysun.com.
Gary Thrornton, Take Me Back to Texas, 24” x 36”
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George Kovach Fall Scene, 20” x 30”
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On the Square at 100 Oak Dr, Suite 200 • Wimberley (Across from Kiss the Cook) TERRY GRISHAM, DIRECTOR
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INDEX
HENLY
Texas Hill Country Locator Map
© 2014 by TD Austin Lane, Inc.
Austin J5 Bandera B10 Bergheim D9 Bertram I2 Blanco F6 Boerne D9 Buchanan Dam F2 Buda J7 Bulverde G10 Burnet G2 Camp Verde B8 Canyon Lake G9 Castroville C12 Center Point B8 Clear Springs H11 Comfort C8 Concan A11 Driftwood H7 Dripping Springs H6 Fischer G8 Fredericksburg C5 Georgetown K2 Granite Shoals G2 Gruene H10 Hancock G8 Helotes G6 Henly G6 Highland Lakes F2/3 Hondo B13 Hunt A7 Hye E6 Ingram B7 Johnson City F5 Kendalia F8 Kerrville B7 Kingsland F2 Kyle I8 Lampasas G1 Leakey A9 Llano D2 Liberty Hill I12 Luckenbach D6 Luling K10 Marble Falls G3 Martindale J9 Mason B2 Medina A9 New Braunfels H10 Oak Hill I6 Oatmeal H2 Pipe Creek C10 Round Rock K3 San Antonio F12 San Marcos I9 Sattler H9 Seguin I11 Sisterdale D8 Spring Branch F9 Startzville G9 Stonewall D6 Utopia A10 Vanderpool A9 Wimberley H8
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Ernie Lee “The Bard of the Blanco” hill country POETRY Antiques & Things
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A lizard by any other name
I
can see there are a lot of funny people out there – the humorous kind! I asked for your funny poems, and I was not disappointed. I wish I could share them all with you. One of our readers, Les Ply of Henley, had an interesting encounter with a skink. His poem, “A Skink in a Sink” is offered on page 5 for your enjoyment. Les even sent me a picture of the little fellow, who (never fear) was liberated to his original environment after the photo op. I like the way his poem reads – simple and clear. Now, I’m no lizard expert, but I am a trained naturalist, and I have guided many tours of the Honey Creek State Nature Area. But I have never seen one surf on a scouring pad...how funny! Les’ poem was built from crossrhymed quatrain. That is four line stanzas, rhymed a-b-a-b. I put the stanzas together to save space in the article. But you can see if you count, Les stays true to the style all the way through. It’s almost a heroic pattern, except we have no hero (unless you count Les, who freed 5.25”x6.25” CMYK the lizard).
Quatrains are beautiful little poetic expressions. If rhymed, the pattern can be a-a-b-b (couplet pairs), a-b-a-b (crossrhymed), a-a-a-a (mono-rhymed), a-b-b-a (envelope quatrain), and even x-a-x-a with the x being unrhymed (sometimes used as a ballad stanza). It’s fun to play with and experiment. The meter is broken, but that doesn’t matter much if it reads smoothly. In fact sometimes broken meter is preferred to keep your poem from sounding sing-song like. Well done, Les! Thanks for sharing. Our subject for next time is “Winter in the Hill Country.” There is a lot to write about that can be visual and expressive. Such scenes as winter makes... icicles on cactus, the howling wind and rain hitting the roof, a little plant that looks like an icicle when we get our first freeze of the winter, all bring to mind the beauty and passing of the seasons. I can’t wait to see what you write! Send your poems to Ernie Lee at bardoftheblanco@hotmail.com. I’ll read each one, and print the one we liked best. We’ll talk about why and how the HCSun See HILL COUNTRY POETRY, page 5
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HILL COUNTRY POETRY, from page 4
A Skink in the Sink Who would ever stop to think While one was doing dishes Quite suddenly, there appeared a skink, Most certainly against its wishes. A skink in a sink has a certain rhyme But in a prison of stainless steel One thinks he would have picked another time To go foraging for his meal. He must have ridden the kitty’s dish When it was brought in from outside And I am sure that it was not his wish
WIMBERLEY
EAGLE MOUNTAIN FLAGS
By Les Ply
To have gone on that unplanned ride. But here it was on a sea of soap Surfing on a scouring pad Trying it’s very best to cope, With a trip that turned out bad. But things were going to turn out fine In the form of a helping hand, It was going to another place to dine Instead of to the Promised Land. It was gently lifted in the air And placed outside to roam I doubt that it will ever dare Stray so far away from home.
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poem worked. We’ll discuss the devices the poet used, such as simile or metaphor. Don’t be shy. You will be surprised how many people are already writing things down and keeping them hidden. What a tragedy – you never know when something you write may touch someone else. Thank you for participating in this column. I’ve met so many wonderful new friends.
If you are a published or practiced poet, you can reach out and share your work with us. Give us insight into your poem. How, why, and what method you chose to express your work. Feel free to correct things I said, or add to the discussion. I’m pleased and honored to be your host and facilitator. So, until next time, happy writing. Stay warm and dry. I’ll be waiting to read YOU!
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DRIPPING SPRINGS
Holidays bright along Regional Lighting Trail
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his holiday season, don’t miss the twinkling lights and holiday excitement along the Texas Hill Country Regional Christmas Lighting Trail, as nine Hill Country communities offer beautiful displays illuminating downtowns, squares and landmarks through January 1. Bandera, Boerne, Burnet, Dripping Springs, Fredericksburg, Johnson City, Kerrville, Marble Falls and Wimberley participate. In addition to a driving tour, each town offers a calendar of fun events and festivities for the family. To celebrate the holidays “cowboy style,” just head to Bandera, where you can enjoy a ‘Cowboy Capital Campfire’ in City Park on the Medina River December 6 with storytellers and cowboy singers. Bandera also hosts a living nativity, children’s choir, carolers, a December 6 parade and a “Singing in the Saddle” event December 21, complete with BYOH (bring your own horse). Not to worry, there will be horses for rent at the Longhorn Saloon! Boerne hosts a “Dickens on Main” Christmas on the beautifully restored Main Street, where you can wander among antique and gift shops, art galleries, and coffee shops. Activities for the kids include a train ride, photos with Santa, an ice sculpture display, and the December 6 Christmas parade. Oma’s Christmas Fair is December 6-7, featuring three buildings full of handmade merchandise, a bake sale, kids’ activities, carolers, door prizes, photos with Santa and more. And visit Enchanted Springs Ranch for a “Cowboy Christmas,” with hayrides, caroling, and a petting zoo, Cowboy Santa and more. Head to Burnet to Main Street “Bethlehem” December 5-7 and December 1214 to see what life was like at the time of Jesus’ birth. You’ll find costumed towns-
people baking bread, bargaining at the city market, drawing water from the well, and paying taxes to the tax collector. A holiday trail of lights runs from Wallace Riddell Park through the Historic Square to Hamilton Creek Park. The Burnet County Courthouse will be on display with thousands of lights as well as large bows, wreaths, and garland — a giant “present” sure to light up Burnet for the holiday season. Dripping Springs will dazzle you with its 10th Annual “Christmas on Mercer Street” December 6. Activities include pony rides, photos with Santa, a classic car show, and a tree lighting with Christmas carolers, complete with festive food and drink. Santa will make his grand entrance in his Clydesdale-drawn carriage. `Tis the season to enjoy the Eisbahn in Fredericksburg (through January 4)! Take the whole family to enjoy a real outdoor ice skating rink and German-themed Christmas. Fredericksburg’s Marktplatz is transformed into a winter wonderland with a 26-foot tall Christmas pyramid handcrafted in Germany, and Main Street will be adorned with thousands of lights. Fredericksburg also hosts a hometown holiday parade December 5, a Christmas Journey Drive-Through at Bethany Lutheran Church December 12-13 and Luckenbach’s Christmas Ball December 20, plus several New Year’s Eve dances. Johnson City is home to one of the largest light displays in the state, boasting literally millions of lights. Local homes, churches, and businesses add their displays to the 100,000 lights on the Blanco County Courthouse, and Pedernales Electric Co-Op headquarters on Avenue F offers a lighted forest of more than a million lights—a display not to be missed! Johnson City is also home to “Christmas in the Park” December 6 at the LBJ boyhood See CHRISTMAS LIGHTS, page 7
Wimberley hosts Christmas celebration December 13 WIMBERLEY H The Wimberley Merchant’s Association hosts the 7th annual Winter’s Eve—A Christmas Festival— in downtown Wimberley December 13 from 5 pm to 10 pm. Stroll through the charming downtown and enjoy enchanting seasonal lights and music. Guests can take part in a raffle and also receive free Christmas cash — redeemable $1 and $5 bills to spend at merchant member shops and restaurants. Shops will stay open late (‘til 10 pm), and don’t miss Santa’s arrival at 6 pm. Plus, enjoy food, spirits and live entertainment featuring Texas Renegade, Bonnie Bishop Band and the Bottom Dollar String Band. FYI • For more information, visit the web site at www.wimberleymerchants.com. PAGE 6 DECEMBER 2014 R HILL COUNTRY SUN
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS, from page 6
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The PEC auditorium at the Pedernales Electrical Co-op headquarters in Johnson City, transformed into a holiday light forest spectacular. Photo courtesy Pedernales Electric Cooperative. home, “The Living Story of Christmas” performances at the United Methodist Church December 5-6 and December 1213 and more. Find the Hill Country’s tallest Christmas tree in Kerrville, covered with more than 140,000 sparkling lights. Plus enjoy holiday performances including “The Christmas Foundling” December 1-6 at the Point Theater and Symphony of the Hills musical presentaion,“Joy!” December 4. More than two million lights and 150 sculptures delight visitors to Marble Falls. According to festival organizer Julia Adams, “The self-guided winter wonderland walk will dazzle you with whimsical, patriotic, religious, traditional, and not so traditional sculptures. This lighted wonderland will fill your holiday season with enchantment.” Last year more than 50,000 visitors came to see this unique display, representing 36 different countries from around the world.
And in Wimberley, this year marks the 17th annual EmilyAnn Theatre and Gardens’ Trail of Lights. “It started with one tree and friends gathering by the fire and has grown to more than 100 displays,” explains Juli Dearrington. Guests can enjoy the holiday yule log, roast marshmallows and hotdogs, and sip hot cocoa. A holiday store is available for the kids (with everything priced around $1) for Christmas shopping, plus live entertainment most evenings. Many more activities await along the Texas Hill Country Regional Christmas Lighting Trail. So load up the family, head out into the hills and begin a new holiday tradition along the this month, with sights sure to delight, enchant and infuse everyone with the holiday spirit. FYI • For a complete listing of events and dates communities participating in the Texas Hill Country Regional Christmas Lighting Trail , as well as a map, visit the web site at www.tex-fest.com/regional, or call 830-997-8515 to request a free brochure.
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Holiday photo opportunities abound at EmilyAnn Theatre & Gardens’ charming Trail of Lights in Wimberley, with more than 100 festive exhibits. Here, a lovely display by Wimberley United Methodist Church. Photo courtesy EmilyAnn Theatre & Gardens.
HILL COUNTRY SUN R DECEMBER 2014 PAGE 7
New Braunfels’ hidden gem, the Huisache Grill
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By Ernie Altgelt
ucked attractively away off a busy thoroughfare deep in the heart of New Braunfel’s charming historic center lays a (seemingly) concealed, but extraordinary eatery delightfully defined by its exquisite cuisine, comfortable atmosphere and, most importantly, ability to accommodate almost any taste or craving — from the epicure to the just plain hungry. Appropriately named the Huisache Grill (after Texas’ spiny and ubiquitous native tree that provides nutritious fodder for a whole host of wild critters), the popular stop for those in the know has been serving up sumptuous selections for the past 20 years even though its location might, at first, leave the uninitiated scratching their heads as to where it actually is. Fortunately, once discovered, this
hidden jewel quickly becomes a feaster’s favorite where, happily, the secret is inevitably shared among other like-minded patrons also seeking superior sustenance that truly is, well… out of sight. Conceived and established in 1994 by Lynn and Don Forres, the Huisache Grill represents the fruit of their combined personal talents, strengths and abilities. Lynn, a native Californian, had enjoyed early professional success by learning the commercial cooking trade while working under the guidance of a respected Colorado-based Chef (she also attended multiple culinary schools). Later, she transitioned to management overseeing restaurants in San Antonio. It was in the Alamo City where she met her future husband Don, an accomplished “numbers guy” who, surprisingly, performed in a band on the side – See HUISACHE GRILL, page 9
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An inviting experience and delightful dining awaits at Huisache Grill, tucked away in New Braunfels’ historic center. Photo by Pauline Stevens.
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www.friolodging.com • www.hillcountryadventures.com The Huisache Grill offers 21st Century coziness and comfort while maintaining the feel of its much earlier roots. Photo by Pauline Stevens. Lynn hired the group for a restaurant gig. Love ensued and the pair married eventually moving to New Braunfels where a small-town lifestyle beckoned. It was in the old German community that the two discovered they had a knack for restoration, primarily targeting dilapidated, but historically significant, homes. After saving (and then selling) several houses, Lynn and Don decided the time was right to reassert their former professional skills (and tap into their shared passion) and get (for Lynn at least, back) into the restaurant business. With their past experience in architectural restoration coupled with Don’s extensive financial background and Lynn’s indisputable expertise in the kitchen, creating and operating (successfully) a restaurant like the Huisache Grill seemed “a natural.” Step-one was finding an appropriate location. This, surprisingly enough, ended up being a smallish, run-down 1920s structure (15 feet from some still-active railroad tracks) that originally served as a primitive rear storage shed situated well behind a larger, street-fronting space that, coincidentally, had housed various dining establishments throughout the years. With no street visibility (and the noisy tracks), folks thought the pair was crazy but, when completed, the result was dramatic. The now revamped and enlarged building exudes 21st Century coziness and comfort while maintaining the feel of its much earlier roots. Multiple inviting dining and resting areas predominate – inside and out. All are designed to enhance the overall “Huisache Grill experience” which, since it is a restaurant, revolves primarily around its comestibles. With its décor and delectables, in spite of its “hidden” location, the recipe has proven to be unbeatable and well worth the search. Regarding the food and drink, a glance at the menu “says it all.” If a customer desires something light, delicious assortments of freshly-made soups and sandwiches nicely satisfy. As an example, Friday’s are always popular when the in-
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Find Us on Outdoor dining at the Huisache Grill. Photo by Pauline Stevens. credible shrimp and crawfish bisque is offered. For the bigger appetite, many are drawn to (and never disappointed by) the savory Charbroiled Chicken Yucatan, pecan dusted pork tenderloin medallions or, even a traditional chicken-fried steak. And, there’s lots in between including myriad other equally flavorful fish, beef and pork dishes, all guaranteed to please. Add to the mix a monster wine and beer selection and, it’s easy to see why the Huisache Grill enjoys such a loyal, regular and satisfied clientele. But there’s more. While amazing chow served in dynamite digs pretty well describes the Huisache Grill, Lynn and Don now own all of the surrounding property and have revamped the entire area into a shopping Mecca. Spread across these substantial grounds (which comprise an entire city block), this energetic duo has (lovingly) restored and/or added a number of other older buildings that now house an eclectic assortment of retailers and artisans. Wow, one-stop supping and shopping – that really is out of sight! FYI • The Huisache Grill and its accompanying retailing neighbors are located at 303 West San Antonio Street in New Braunfels. The grill and parking are located behind the large retail building (part of the complex) facing San Antonio street. Everything opens daily at 11 am. The shops close at 6 pm except on Fridays and Saturdays when they remain open until 9 pm. The restaurant closes at 10 pm. For more information, including directions and menu offerings, visit the web site at www.huisache.com or call 830-620-9001. Reservations are recommended.
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frio/sabinal river valleys
Holiday Wine Trail offers taste of 42 local wineries HILL COUNTRY H Wine lovers, don’t miss Texas Hill Country Wineries 2014 Holiday Wine Trail, December 5-21, the self-guided tour event all about wine, holiday style. 42 unique member wineries participate. Tickets are $60 for couples and $35 for individuals and include one collectable ornament from Texas Hill Country Wineries, a full complimentary tasting at each winery (with a limit of four wineries a day) and a 15 percent discount on three-bottle purchases. An average tasting fee at a winery is $9 per person, which adds up to $36 each if visiting four wineries a day. With your Holiday Wine Trail ticket, you save money plus you have 17 days to experience and enjoy the decking of the cellars in the wonderland that is the Texas Hill Country. FYI • For complete details, and to purchase tickets (going fast), visit the web site at texaswinetrail.com.
Early maps of Texas are now available to public
Send Calendar Events to melissa@hillcountrysun.com
AUSTIN H Christmas came early at the historic archives of the General Land Office with a gift Texans worldwide will be eager to share. A private collection of some of the oldest and rarest maps of Texas is now available to the public, thanks to a unique digitization project with Houston map collectors, Frank and Carol Holcomb. High-quality, digital reprints of the Frank and Carol Holcomb collection are available now for as little as $20. All proceeds from the sales help Save Texas History, a public-private effort to preserve and digitize the massive collection of maps and historic documents in the Archives of the General Land Office. The Holcombs are allowing the General Land Office to digitize their map collection, providing access for the first time to more than 70 important historic maps of Texas, the United States, and the Western Hemisphere. The Frank and Carol Holcomb Map Collection includes many maps that show Texas and the southwest dating to 1513, making them the Blanco County Map, #3304 | oldest maps in the collection at the General Published by The Texas General Land Office Land Office Archives and Records. The Holcomb Map Collection will be searchable at www.savetexashistory.org, as are the other 45,000 maps housed at the GLO, as well as thousands of additional maps that the General Land Office scanned for public institutions and private collectors. Other private collectors are encouraged to donate and digitize their map collections with the General Land Office. Donations made to the GLO for public purposes are tax deductible pursuant to Internal Revenue Code §170(c)(1). The Save Texas History Program is a unique campaign that brings together private and government efforts to preserve the 35.5 million maps and documents at the Texas General Land Office. After items are conserved, they’re digitally preserved and made available to the public via the Internet. The Digital Preservation Project of the Save Texas History Program has been recognized by the Texas Historical Commission for its monumental effort to digitally preserve these historic treasures. FYI • To search for maps, place orders, or make a monetary donation to the Save Texas History Program, visit www. savetexashistory.org or call the Land Office toll-free at 1-800-998-4GLO.
Spend a day in Utopia! Main Street Utopia
French Country Antiques, Collectibles Gifts, Books, Jewelry, Accessories Closed Sun & Mon • 282 Main St, 830-966-5544 mainstreetutopia.com
Utopia is a charming Hill Country town nestled in the Sabinal Canyon between Bandera & Garner Park
The Laurel Tree
Seasonal gourmet cuisine in a charming setting Open Saturday for lunch & dinner 18956 Hwy 187, 830-966-5444 for reservations utopiagourmet.com
PAGE 10 DECEMBER 2014 R HILL COUNTRY SUN
Utopia Golf
Prettiest 9-Hole Course in Texas Home of the movie “Seven Days in Utopia” 20567 Hwy 187, 830-966-5577 UtopiaGolf.com
Hill country calendar NOTE: Dates or locations for the events listed in the Calendar may change. Some require admission fees or reservations. Please call ahead to confirm information. EVERY DAY GRUENE: Live music at Gruene Hall. Free music shows Monday through Thursday nights, Saturday and Sunday afternoons. www.gruenehall.com. SECOND SUNDAY BANDERA: Cowboy Camp. Live cowboy music at Frontier Times Museum. Free. 1 pm to 5 pm. 830-328-0321. JOHNSON CITY: Taste Wine + Art. Rockin’ gospel to Latin music at the Kirchman Gallery. 830-868-9290. EVERY MONDAY CANYON LAKE: Seniors Bingo. 12:30 pm at Habitat for Safe Seniors, 2174 Old Road, Startzville. 830-899-2256. CYPRESS MILL: The Bunkhouse Gang at Wenmohs Ranch. Paint and enjoy fellowship of other artists. 830-825-3465. WIMBERLEY: Hill Country Community Band. First Baptist Church. 512-858-7960. EVERY TUESDAY through SUNDAY WIMBERLEY: A premier hand blown glass lighting and art glass studio since 1992, Wimberley Glassworks hosts glass blowing demonstrations for travelers and art glass enthusiasts from around the world. wgw.com, 512-213-2110. FIRST TUESDAYS BANDERA: Cowboy Capital Opry. Silver Sage Senior Center. 830-796-4969. SECOND TUESDAYS Wimberley: Art Society of Wimberley (ASW) meets at 6:30 pm at Art Room, 100 Melody Way, Suite H. Email msalaun@ austin.rr.com for more information. THIRD TUESDAYS NEW BRAUNFELS: Country Music Show. Knights of Columbus. 830-6294547. LEANDER: Low Cost Pet Spay, Neuter and Vaccination. 512-260-3602, ext. 101. EVERY WEDNESDAY DRIPPING SPRINGS: Farmers Market. 3 pm to 7 pm at Highway 290 and Ranch Road 12. March to December, rain or shine. www.cityofdrippingsprings.com. WIMBERLEY: Farmers’ Market. Senior Citizen’s Activity Center on Ranch Road 12. 512-264-1637. THIRD WEDNESDAYS DRIPPING SPRINGS: Cook Off Club meets at 6:30 pm in the VFW Hall. ryoncrew@yahoo.com. FOURTH WEDNESDAYS WIMBERLEY: Hill Country Neighbors. 10:30 am at the Wimberley Community Center. 512-847-2849. EVERY THURSDAY DRIPPING SPRINGS: Coffee House with Light Dinners, Decadent Desserts and Open Mic. 6 pm to 9 pm. Thyme and Dough. 512-894-0001. DRIPPING SPRINGS: Thursdays with Doug Moreland and the Flying Armadillos at Mercer Street Dance Hall. www. mercerstreetdancehall.com. FIRST THURSDAY BUDA: First Thursday. Stroll through downtown shops, enjoy downtown restaurants, art and shopping. www.discoverbuda.com.
SECOND THURSDAY WIMBERLEY: Hill Country Bead Society Meets. Wimberley Community Center. 1 pm. Marilyn Pierce at mp@smpierce.net. FIRST AND THIRD THURSDAY CANYON LAKE: Noon Lions meet at Canyon Lake Golf Club. 830-899-4406. THIRD THURSDAY WIMBERLEY: Susanna’s Kitchen Coffeehouse presents some of the best in Central Texas’ musical talent. Concerts held at Wimberley United Methodist Church, Corner Ranch Road 12 and County Road 1492. Doors open by 7 pm, concert at 7:30 pm. Free child care; tamales, pizza, pie, coffee, soft drinks available. Tickets at door. For listing of performers, visit the web site at www.wimberleyumc.com. EVERY THURSDAY, FRIDAY, SATURDAY WIMBERLEY: Live Music at Linda’s Fine Foods. Delicious food, beautiful music at 500 Farm Market 2325. 512-847-5464. www.facebook.com/LindasFineFoods. EVERY FRIDAY BLANCO: Tasting Room Open and Brewery Tours at Real Ale Brewing Company. www.realalebrewing.com. GRUENE: Friday Afternoon Club at Gruene Hall. Broadcast live KNBT-92.1 FM Radio. 4 pm to 7 pm. 830-629-5077. WIMBERLEY: Bingo. VFW Hall on Jacobs Well Road. 512-847-6441. WIMBERLEY: Preschool Story Time at Wimberley Village Library. 10:30 am. 512-847-2188, www.wimberleylibrary. org. WIMBERLEY: Celebrate Recovery. First Baptist Church Youth Building. 7 pm to 9 pm, with pizza at 6:30 pm. 512-847-9035. SECOND FRIDAY CASTROVILLE: Friday Night Fever. Cars, trucks, bikes, food, shopping. 6 pm to 10 pm. Lundquist Automotive. www. castroville.com, 830-931-2479. WIMBERLEY: Wimberley Area Parkinsons Association Meeting. Chapel of The Hills Church, 11 am. 512-847-7953. WIMBERLEY: Wimberley Community Civic Club Meeting. (September through November, January through May) 11 am at Chapel in the Hills, 14601 Ranch Road 12. If you are not a member, contact Milly Maxey at millymaxey@gmail.com or Aurora LeBrun at 512-847-3595 to attend. THIRD FRIDAY WIMBERLEY: Wimberley Parkinson Association Meets at Chapel in the Hills Community Church.. Hear speakers informative on subjects pertaining to Parkinson, members share happenings in their lives. 11 am at 14601 Ranch Road 12. Call Gae Koen at 512-847-7953. FOURTH FRIDAY BANDERA: Fourth Friday Jam. At the Silver Sage Corral starting at 6:30 pm. Call 830-796-4969 for information. EVERY FRIDAY, SATURDAY AND SUNDAY FREDERICKSBURG: Rockbox Theater. Variety, music, and rock ‘n roll show, great family fun. 866-349-6688. EVERY FRIDAY AND SATURDAY WIMBERLEY: Live Music. Linda’s Fine Foods. www.lindaallencatering.com. EVERY SATURDAY AUSTIN: Austin Farmers Market. Re-
18 Annual CRRC
NORTH POLE VILLAGE
December 11, 12, 13 & 18, 19, 20 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm Christmas Fun for the Whole Family Bakery r Post Office r Toy Land Ice Fishing r Elves House r Hayride Pictures with Santa $5 r Live Nativity Admission only $3.00 - 18 mos. & under Free! CRRC Recreation Center - Below Canyon Dam 125 Mabel Jones Dr - Canyon Lake
www.crrcofcanyonlake.org • 830-964-2324
Breakfast with Santa • Sat, Dec 20 • Photo opportunities! 8am to 10:30am - $5 per person, 18 months & under free
The EmilyAnn Theatre & Gardens’ 17th Annual
Trail of Lights Nov. 29 - Dec. 31
Sun. - Thurs. 6:00 - 9:00 pm Fri. & Sat. 6:00 - 10:00 pm Walk along a path through 100+ lighted exhibits. Roast a marshmallow at the old fashioned Yule Log. Enjoy live entertainment on most nights. free admission ♦ donations appreciated 1101 FM 2325 ♦ Wimberley, TX ♦ www.emilyann.org
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HILL COUNTRY SUN R DECEMBER 2014 PAGE 11
Hill country calendar
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public Square. 512-236-0074. AUSTIN: Sunset Valley Farmers Market. Barton Creek Mall. 512-280-1976. BANDERA: Flying L Ranch Chuck Wagon Dinner. Enjoy barbecue, wagon rides, roping lessons, branding, archery, old fashioned photos and entertainment. www.flyingl.com, 800-292-5134. BEE CAVE: Thundering Paws Animal Sanctuary Adoptions at PetSmart. Noon to 4 pm. 12812 Shops Parkway. www. thunderingpaws.org. COMFORT: Area Farmer’s Market. 8 am to 1 pm. Comfort Park, Highway 27. COMFORT: Wine Tastings at High’s Café. 4 pm to 7 pm. www.highscafeandstore.com. DRIPPING SPRINGS: Texas Music and Wine. www.solaroestate.com. FISCHER: Jackson Open Air Market. Local artists and farmers, food, fun and entertainment. 9 am to 5 pm. 6341 Farm Market 32. 830-935-2781. NEW BRAUNFELS: Canyon Trail Chuckwagon Supper and Cowboy Music Show. 830-626-8200, 888-408-7245. WIMBERLEY: Tour Jacob’s Well. Hear stories about floods, divers, experience the beauty of spring that started the town. 10 am. www.jacobswellspring.org. WIMBERLEY: Arnosky Family Farms Market. Flowers, vegetables, more. Ranch Road 2325, Highway 165. 830-8335428. FIRST SATURDAY BANDERA: Market Days. Courthouse Square. 830-796-4447. BANDERA: First Saturday Book Sale. Public Library. 830-796-4213. DRIFTWOOD: Driftwood Community Club meets to enhance community spirit of Driftwood. Dinner and fun begins at 7 pm. www.driftwoodtx.org 512-8295101 DRIPPING SPRINGS: Low Cost Pet Vaccinations. At Tractor Supply on Highway 290. 512-858-7229. WIMBERLEY: Market Days. (March through December). Everything you can’t live without at Lions Field. 475plus booths, free admission. 7 am to 4 pm. www.shopmarketdays.com. SECOND SATURDAY CASTROVILLE: Market Trail Days. Houston Square. 830-539-2316. SECOND AND FOURTH SATURDAY WIMBERLEY: Toastmasters Club, learn public speaking and leadership skills. 10:30 am at the Wimberley Village Library. 512-913-4804 for information. THIRD SATURDAY MARBLE FALLS: Bluegrass, Country and Western, and Gospel. 6 pm to 10 pm. Boys and Girls Club. 830-898-1784. EVERY SATURDAY AND SUNDAY ROUND MOUNTAIN: Tours at Westcave Preserve. www.westcave.org. SECOND SATURDAY AND SUNDAY AUSTIN: Tours of Bright Leaf Natural Area. www.brightleaf.org. FOURTH SATURDAY AND SUNDAY Johnson City: Market Days. Food, artisans, vendors and more. 830-868-7684, JohnsonCityTexasChamber.com.
PAGE 12 DECEMBER 2014 R HILL COUNTRY SUN
DECEMBER 1-7 SAN MARCOS: Mary Ellen Mark: Man and Beast—Photographs from Mexico and India. Exhibit of more than 100 images by renowned photographer Mary Ellen Mark includes many that explore fundamental working relationships between people and animals in two countries half a world apart. Alkek Library at Texas State University. www.thewittliffcollections.txstate.edu, 512-245-2313. SAN MARCOS: Coming to Light: New Acquisitions. Debut of works by 42 internationally acclaimed and emerging photographers, including Kate Breakey, Keith Carter, Lee Friedlander, Graciela Iturbide, Richard Misrach, Geoff Winningham and Mariana Yampolsky. Wittliff Collections. Texas State University. www.thewittliffcollections.txstate.edu. DECEMBER 1-6 KERRVILLE: “The Christmas Foundling” The Indoor Point Theater. www. hcaf.com. DECEMBER 1-7 WIMBERLEY: “Two Noble Kinsmen.” Two devoted cousins turn rivals for one maiden’s love in this play by William Shakespeare. Wimberley Playhouse, 450 Old Kyle Road. www.wimberleyplayers. org, 512-847-0575. DECEMBER 1-12 INGRAM: Artmart Hill Country Holiday Shopping. Hill Country Arts Foundation. www.hcaf.com. DECEMBER 1-31 BURNET:Christmas Trail of Lights. Runs from Wallace Riddell Park through the square and to Hamilton Creek Park. www.cityofburnet.com. LLANO: Starry, Starry Nights. Walk through the lighted archway on a lighted path along the Llano River that begins with hot chocolate and ends with Santa. Badu Park. www.llanochamber.org. WIMBERLEY: Holiday Trail of Lights. Stroll down a path with more than 100 lighted exhibits, then roast marshmallows at the Yule Log and enjoy live entertainment on most nights. EmilyAnn Theatre and Gardens. www.emilyann.org. DECEMBER 1 - JANUARY 1 MARBLE FALLS: Walkway of Lights. More than two million lights transform Lakeside Park into holiday wonderland. Open daily, weather permitting, visits from Santa on the weekends. 1206 Second Street. www.marblefalls.org. JOHNSON CITY: Lights Spectacular, Hill Country Style. The entire town bathed in lights with 100,000 lights on the Blanco County Courthouse,more than a million lights at the Pedernales Electric Co-op Headquarters on Avenue F, Christmas in the Park and displays throughout the community. Plus, hayrides and carriage rides, and Christmas ornaments and holiday crafts for sale on weekends. www. johnsoncity-texas.com, 830-868-7010. DECEMBER 1 - JANUARY 3 SAN MARCOS: Santa’s Ranch DriveThrough Christmas Light Park. www. santasranch.net.
DECEMBER 1 - JANUARY 4 FREDERICKSBURG: Eisbahn. Outdoor ice skating in the Marktplatz, West Main at North Adams. www.skateinfred.com. DECEMBER 2 BANDERA: Cowboy Capital Opry. Features Grand Old Opry-style entertainment hosted by Gerry and Harriet Payne. Silver Sage Community Center. www.silversagecorral.org, 830-796-4969. DECEMBER 3 KYLE: Santa’s Arrival and Tree Lighting Ceremony. City Square Park. www. cityofkyle.com/recreation. DECEMBER 3-6 SAN MARCOS: Sights and Sounds of Christmas. Includes an ice skating rink, giant snowglobe, a laser light show, carnival, Santa and Mrs. Claus, arts and crafts, face painting, food vendors and holiday music. 6 pm to 11 pm at San Marcos Plaza Park. www.sights-n-sounds.org. DECEMBER 4 KERRVILLE: “Joy! Christmas Favorites” Presented by Symphony of the Hills. www.symphonyofthehills.org. DECEMBER 4 – JANUARY 4 KERRVILLE: KACC Starving Artists’ Sale. Kerr Arts and Cultural Center. www.kacckerrville.com. DECEMBER 5 BANDERA: Holiday Parade Downtown. www.banderacowboycapital.com BANDERA: Shoppers’ Jubilee. Features a live Nativity, caroling, Christmas program and shopping. Downtown. www. banderatexasbusiness.com. FREDERICKSBURG: Light the Night Christmas Parade and After Glow. A lighted night parade and market add an extra twinkle to the Christmas treasures of the Hill Country. Main Street. www. fredericksburg-texas.com, 830-997-6523. KERRVILLE: Christmas Open House. Enjoy holiday music and refreshments. The Museum of Western Art. www.museumofwesternart.com. SMITHSON VALLEY: Texas Hill Country Water Summit. Topics include: Hill Country hydrology, water demands, Texas legislative session, the role of Groundwater Conservation Districts, brush management programs, and conservation. GVTC Auditorium. $25 admission includes lunch. 8 am to 5 pm. www.guadalupebasincoalition.org. DECEMBER 5-6 MASON: Winter Art Walk. Look for the purple flags to find local and Texas art from the many artists that call the area home. 325-347-5758. DECEMBER 5-6, 12-13 JOHNSON CITY: Living Story of Christmas Enjoy a Christmas program with five free shows per night, starting at 6 pm at First United Methodist Church. www. fumcjctx.org, 830-868-7414. DECEMBER 5-7 WIMBERLEY: Wimberley Community Chorus presents Fall Concert “Christmas And All That Jazz.” Friday and Saturday at 7 pm; Sunday at 3 pm at Chapel in the Hills, 14601 Ranch Road 12. www.wimberleycommunitychorus.org.
Hill country calendar DECEMBER 5-7, 12-14 BURNET: Main Street Bethlehem. Join peasants, royal guards, shepherds, and the wise men on the trek to see the baby Jesus. 6 pm to 9 pm on downtown square. www.fbcburnet.org, 512-756-4481. DECEMBER 5-14 KERRVILLE: “Christmas at Broken Pine” VK Garage Theater, 305 Washington Street. www.playhouse2000.com. FREDERICKSBURG: Holiday Wine Trail. Get tickets online to receive a wreath to decorate with ornaments from each winery you visit on self-guided tour. Various locations. www.texaswinetrail.com. DECEMBER 6 BLANCO: Festival of Texas Fiddling. Workshops with Howard Rains, Brian Marshall and Ed Poullard. Showcases with Mia Orosco, Jose Moreno y Los Paruelleros and more. Evening dance with Al Dressen’s Super Swing Revue. Twin Sisters Dance Hall. Noon to 11 pm. www. texasdancehall.org. BOERNE: Weihnachts Parade. 6 pm. Downtown. www.visitboerne.org. DRIPPING SPRINGS: Christmas on Mercer. cityofdrippingsprings.com. COMFORT: Hill Country Pottery Holiday Reception. You are invited to the 6th annual event with live music, a food truck, pottery demonstrations, and a special collection of gifts, perfect for the holidays. 738 FM 473. www.hillcountrypottery.com, 830-446-2957. LLANO: Llano Christmas Market Day, Lighted Parade and Home Tours. Includes a market from on courthouse square and Santa’s arrival on a fire truck in the lighted Christmas parade at dark. Various locations. 325-247-5354. FREDERICKSBURG: Holiday Home Tour. Walk through seven unique, never before toured Fredericksburg-area properties decorated for the holidays. A booklet with the tour map and full description of each property is available. Various locations. www.pioneermuseum.net. GRUENE: “Bah Humbug” Award-winning stage actor Damian Gillen transforms himself into all the characters— from Ebenezer Scrooge to Tiny Tim— in imaginative re-telling of “A Christmas Carol” with numerous costume changes, special effects and traditional Celtic Christmas tunes. Grapevine in Gruene Historic District. www.GrueneTexas. com. GRUENE: Pony Express Ride A Pony. Express rider from the Heritage Trail Ride Association of New Braunfels arrives with Christmas greetings from the governor of Texas at 10 am, and a temporary post office set up to cancel stamps for mailing. Bring holiday cards to have the stamps cancelled with the 2014 commemorative stamp representing Gruene. Gruene Historic District.www.GrueneTexas.com. GRUENE: Town Lighting Gruene with a brass band street performance at 5 pm, at 6 pm Cowboy Kringle rides into town on horseback to light up the town. Gruene Historic District. www.GrueneTexas. com.
JOHNSON CITY: Johnson City Toy Run. Starting at the Johnson City Courthouse at 9 am, motorcyclists head west to Cherokee to deliver Christmas joy to children at the Cherokee Home and share a meal. Blanco County Courthouse, 100 East Pecan. www.jcpigroast.org, 830-868-4007. JOHNSON CITY: Timeless Christmas at the LBJ Boyhood Home and Johnson Settlement. Visit the boyhood home of President Lyndon B. Johnson decorated for a 1920s Christmas, and walk the short, lighted trail to the Johnson Settlement to experience a late-1860s celebration in the Johnson Cabin. LBJ National Park. www. nps.gov/lyjo 830/868-7128 ext. 231. NEW BRAUNFELS: Christmas Tour of Homes. 21st-annual tour features variety of historic to modern homes. Tickets required. www.nbrw.com. DECEMBER 6-7 BOERNE: Oma’s Christmas Craft Fair Kendall County Fairgrounds, 1307 River Road. www.kcfa.org, 830-249-2839. DRIPPING SPRINGS: Sami Show Marketplace. Dripping Springs Ranch Park. www.samishow.com. GRUENE: Gruene Christmas Market Days. Nearly 100 vendors offer uniquely crafted items and packaged Texas foods. Gruene Historic District. www. GrueneMarketDays.com. DECEMBER 6-7, 13-14, 20-21 CEDAR PARK: Austin Steam Train North Pole Flyer Santa Claus greets passengers, and Mrs. Claus helps serve delicious cookies. Enjoy hot chocolate while
amber HCS DEC bw.qxp_Layout 1 11/23/14 2:28 PM Pa
A Show for Kids by Kids Two performances only!
Choir, Orchestra, Drama, Soloists • 2 Performances Only
I’LL BE HOME
For Christmas Saturday
December 13
7:30 pm Sunday
December 14
10:45 am
Set in late 1941, this Big Band era Broadway style musical is the story of the faith of a family, and a nation on the brink of World War II, preparing to celebrate the birth of the Prince of Peace. Presented by First Baptist Church, Wimberley Located at corner of RR 12 & Winters Mill Parkway
Free Admission | Childcare for ages 5 & under available
Published by the Hill Country SUN
Welcome to the Hill Country
Grandparents love this show, too, like radio used to be!
20,000 copies of the guide
Distributed in the Hill Country River Region to Leakey, Camp Wood, Concan, Utopia & Vanderpool, PLUS across the Hill Country... to Fredericksburg, Wimberley, Comfort, Bandera, Kerrville, Medina & Dripping Springs!
AMBER AND NICK RADIO HOUR
at the Wimberley Playhouse Saturday Dec. 27 at 7:00 pm. Sunday Dec. 28 at 2:00 pm Great family outing after Christmas (especially for K-5 kiddos!) Austinites Amber, 12, and brother Nick present their interactive golden age radio show, vintage music, dancing, commercials... and the audience makes the sound effects! General Admission: $6 under 12, $11 all others. Come have fun!
wimberleyplayers.org
Delivered and restocked locally each month for the entire year! Giving your business approximately 12 months of exposure — at one affordable rate!
Reserve Your Space Today! DEADLINE IS JANUARY 31!
YOUR GUIDE TO
Dining • Lodging • Events T hings to Do & More in Concan, Camp Wood, Leakey, Rio Frio, Utopia & Vanderpool
Welcome to the
Hill Country River Region
Box Office 512-847-0575
julie@hillcountrysun.com • 512-484-9716 THE WIMBERLEY PLAYHOUSE 450 Old Kyle Rd.
HILL COUNTRY SUN R DECEMBER 2014 PAGE 13
Hill country calendar
~B I N G O~ Every Friday v 4 Early Bird Games 7:15pm ~ 50/50 Split v 10 Regular Games 8pm VFW Hall Post 6441 @ Veterans Park 4 mi. no. on RR 12 to Jacobs Well Rd Non Smoking • Plenty of Parking • Air & Heat • Food Available www.texasvfw.net • 512-847-6441 • Lic. #1-74-6066562-7 www.visitwimberley.com/vfw
Send your calendar events to melissa@hillcountrysun.com
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reading along with “The North Pole Flyer” Christmas story. Round trip lasts approximately two hours. Austin Steam Train. austinsteamtrain.org. DECEMBER 6, 13, 20 BANDERA: Cowboys on Main See exciting Western-themed action such as cowboys, steers, horses, wagons, strolling musicians and gunfighter re-enactments. Downtown on Main Street. www.banderacowboycapital. com 830/796-3045 DECEMBER 6-7, 13-14, 20-21 JOHNSON CITY: Johnson City Courthouse Ornament Sale. Find handmade Christmas ornaments, crafts, postcards, bird houses, bumper stickers and local cookbooks for sale. 6 pm to 9 pm Saturdays and Sundays. Blanco County Courthouse. 830-868-7010. DECEMBER 7 BANDERA: “Merry Texas Christmas, Too” Christmas Concert. Features The Almost Patsy Cline Band. 7146 Farm Market 1283. 830-796-4447. FREDERICKSBURG: Pearl Harbor Day Observance. Recognition and memorial program in the Museum’s Memorial Courtyard includes speakers, chaplain, Joint Color Guard, music and more. National Museum of the Pacific War. www.pacificwarmuseum.org. UVALDE: “The Messiah.” Presented by Uvalde Community Chorus and High School Choir. Uvalde High School Auditorium. 830-591-9591. DECEMBER 8 WIMBERLEY: Tree Trimming and Cookie Exchange. Come to the library on at 5:30 pm to see Jenelle Flocke demonstrate ancient German tradition of creating wax ornaments with gingerbread molds, then create your own! Wax, molds provided. Admission is two dozen cookies to be enjoyed and exchanged. Wimberley Village Library. Please register at 512-847-1147. DECEMBER 9 NEW BRAUNFELS: “Holiday in Blue.” Featuring the Air Force Band of the West. 7 pm at New Braunfels Civic Convention Center. www.innewbraunfels.com. DECEMBER 11-13, 18-20 CANYON LAKE: 18th Annual CRRC North Pole Village. Features a bakery, post office, toy land, ice fishing, elves’ house, pictures with Santa and more. Christmas fun for the whole family. 6 pm to 9 pm. www.crrcofcanyonlake.org. DECEMBER 11-14 FREDERICKSBURG: Holiday Show with The Sentimental Journey Orchestra. Holiday concert with a 17-piece orchestra and Big Band sound take you back to the 1940s and the musical numbers that fueled post-war celebration. Steve W. Shepherd Theater. www. fredericksburgtheater.org. DECEMBER 12-13 FREDERICKSBURG: The Christmas Journey. This free drive-through presentation of the Christmas story includes nine scenes, all with live characters or animals, magnificent
backgrounds, special lighting and effects and Christmas music. Bethany Lutheran Church. www.bethanyfredericksburg.com, 830-997-2069. GRUENE: Jerry Jeff Walker in Concert. Advance tickets recommended. Gruene Hall. www.gruenehall.com. DECEMBER 13 BURNET: Christmas Festival on the Square. Lighting of the Burnet County Courthouse and arrival of Santa kick off the holiday season. Downtown. www. burnetchamber.org, 512-756-4297. BURNET: Christmas at Old Fort Croghan. Families gather to celebrate a Christmas evening as it was done in the 1800s. Enjoy hot cider,cookies and live music. At 703 Buchanan Drive. www. fortcroghan.org, 512-756-8281. CANYON LAKE: The Biggest Christmas parade in Comal County. 1.5 miles of front row viewing along Farm Market 2673 in downtown Sattler. Bring your chairs and come early to get a good spot. 11 am. Confederate Air Force fly-over, antique cars, bands, horses, Alzafar Shriners, Santa and Mrs. Claus, more. www.clnoonlions.com. 830-9642461, epley@gvtc.com. FREDERICKSBURG: Tannenbaum Ball. Enjoy dinner, dancing and live music by the Flying GTs. St. Mary’s Event Center. www.pioneermusuem.net. GRUENE: Jingle Bell Run/Walk. Gruene Historic District. nbrunclub. com/events/jinglebell.asp. JOHNSON CITY: Lamplight Tours of LBJ’s Boyhood Home LBJ National Park, 200 Elm Street. www.nps.gov/ lyjo, 830-868-7128, ext. 231. LLANO: Snow Day in Llano. Badu Park is transformed into a winter wonderland from 1 pm to 9 pm. 325-247-5354. SAN MARCOS: Art Squared Arts Market. Browse paintings, jewelry, ceramics and more while musicians perform. 150 East Hopkins Street. artsquaredsmtx. com, 512-393-8400. UVALDE: Four Square Friday. Enjoy shopping, food, live music and art from 6 pm to 9 pm. Historic downtown. www. visituvalde.com. WIMBERLEY: Winter’s Eve, A Christmas Festival. Stroll through downtown, enjoy lights, music and late night holiday shopping on the Wimberley Square. Santa arrives at 6 pm, shops open ‘til 10 pm. wimberleymerchants.com. DECEMBER 13-14 DRIPPING SPRINGS: Saxet Gun Show. Guns, knives, ammo, militaria, coins and shooting supplies at Dripping Springs Ranch Park. 1042 DS Ranch Road. Saturday 9 am to 6 pm, Sunday 9 am to 5 pm. WIMBERLEY: “I’ll Be Home for Christmas.” Choir, orchestra, drama and soloists. Set in 1941, this Big Band era Broadway style musical is the story of the faith of a family, and a nation on the brink of World War II preparing to celebrate the birth of the Prince of Peace. First Baptist Church. Saturday at 7:30 pm, Sunday at 10:45 am. www. fbcwimberley.com.
Hill country calendar
Sat, Dec 13 • 9 am-6 pm Sun, Dec 14 • 9 am-5 pm
Texas Renegade performs at Winter’s Eve—A Christmas Festival— December 13 on the downtown Square in Wimberley. Other entertainers include Bonnie Bishop Band and Bottom Dollar String Band. Enjoy a festive holiday event featuring food, spirits, music, shopping and more from 5 pm to 10 pm. Photo courtesy Texas Renegade.
DECEMBER 13-14, 20-21 BOERNE: Market Main Plaza. www. boernemarketdays.com, 830-249-7277. DECEMBER 14 BOERNE: Boerne Concert Band Christmas Concert. Boerne High Auditorium. www.boerneconcertband.org. GRUENE: Gospel Brunch with a Texas Twist: Christmas Edition. Begins at 10:30 am to noon. Gruene Hall. www. gruenehall.com. DECEMBER 16-24 AUSTIN: Armadillo Christmas Bazaar. Shades of old Austin reflected in market with eclectic gifts for sale and featuring live, local entertainment. Palmer Events Center, 900 Barton Springs Road. armadillobazaar.com, 512-404-4500. DECEMBER 18 KERRVILLE: Native Healing Garden Presentation. Join certified herbalists to learn more about tending and using medicinal herbs. Riverside Nature Center. www.riversidenaturecenter.org. WIMBERLEY: Susanna’s Kitchen presents Welch Family Throwdown. Kevin Welch, Dustin Welch and Savannah Welch perform. Doors at 7 pm, music at 7:30 pm. Wimberley United Methodist Church. www.wimberleyumc.org or call 512-722-3316. DECEMBER 19 NEW BRAUNFELS: An Intimate Evening with Hal Ketchum. Brauntex Theater. www.brauntex.org. DECEMBER 19-21 FREDERICKSBURG: Trade Days. Shop with more than 350 vendors in six barns. West of town on U.S. Highway 290, 355 Sunday Farms Lane. www.fbgtradedays.com. DECEMBER 20 KERRVILLE: Kerr County Market Days. Kerr County Courthouse. www. kerrmarketdays.org. LUCKENBACH: Luckenbach Christmas Ball. Featuring music by Gary P. Nunn. Luckenbach Texas Dance Hall. www.luckenbachtexas.com. WIMBERLEY: Starlight Symphony Orchestra. Enjoy cheerful, festive and spirited holiday favorites at 7 pm at Old Glory Ranch, 3633 River Road. www. starlightsymphony.org. DECEMBER 20-21 BOERNE: Cowboy Christmas. Experi-
ence a Christmas “Western Wonderland” with Cowboy Santa, children’s activities, a wild animal park, wagon rides, playground, arrest-a-guest, puppet shows and cowboy skits. Also enjoy Christmas music and caroling, food and gift vendors. Enchanted Springs Ranch. www.enchantedspringsranch.com. DECEMBER 21. FREDERICKSBURG: USO-Style Hangar Dance Ring in New Year with swing dance lessons, Big Band music, 1940s dress and refreshments with portion of proceeds benefiting USO at Ft. Hood. Pacific Showroom at the Hangar Hotel. www.hangar hotel.com, 830-997-9990. KYLE: Starlight Symphony Orchestra. Festive holiday favorites at 4 pm at Hays Performing Arts Center. www.starlightsymphony.org. STONEWALL: 45th Annual LBJ Tree Lighting. Enjoy carolers, a live Nativity, Santa Claus, refreshments and the spectacular tree lighting. Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site. www. tpwd. state.tx.us/state-parks/lyndon-b-johnson, 830-644-2252 ext. 222. DECEMBER 26 STONEWALL: Boxing Day Celebration. www.beckervineyards.com. DECEMBER 27 GRUENE: Aaron Watson in Concert. Advance tickets recommended. Gruene Hall. www.gruenehall.com. DECEMBER 27-28 WIMBERLEY: “Amber and Nick Radio Hour.” A show for kids by kids. Austinites Amber, 12, and brother Nick, present interactive golden age radio show, vintage music, dancing, commerials... and the audience makes the sound effects. www.wimberleyplayers.org. DECEMBER 31 AUSTIN: Austin’s New Year. Alcoholfree, family-friendly event celebrates the diversity and creativity of the city with visual art installations, jugglers, storytellers, fire dancers and other festive performances. Auditorium Shores. austintexas.gov, 512-974-6700. LUCKENBACH: New Year’s Eve Celebration. Featuring music by Thomas Michael Riley and complimentary breakfast tacos, champagne at midnight. Luckenbach Texas Dance Hall. www.luckenbachtexas.com, 830-997-3224.
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