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2024 SPONSORS
The Wonderland of Lights wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of the Marshall community.
We invite you to take a moment to join us in expressing our heartfelt gratitude to our incredible sponsors. Your contributions light up our event and make this magical experience a reality. Thank you for your unwavering support!
Penny & Steve Carlile Richele & Randy Langley
C
to Wonderland Welcome
On behalf of the City of Marshall, I welcome you to the 37th annual Wonderland of Lights Festival. We are so grateful you have chosen to spend part of your precious holiday season with us.
Every November and December, our beautiful city welcomes visitors from around the world to experience the magic of our picturesque downtown in all its glory. There is truly no time quite like it. While you are here, please enjoy the lovely holiday sights and experience Santa’s Village, our antique carousel, outdoor skating rink and numerous charming downtown merchants and delicious restaurants within a short stroll. We also have various holiday events on the square in our beautifully remodeled Memorial City Hall Performance Center that we welcome you to attend during your visit with us.
A multi-week festival of this size is not possible without the generosity of the members of our community. What you see when you visit Wonderland of Lights is the combined efforts of hundreds of hours from our City of Marshall staff, community volunteers and student volunteers from our local high schools and universities. Our local businesses, organizations and individuals you see recognized on our displays contribute significant financial support to make all portions of The Wonderland of Lights possible. I thank each and every one who has supported the 2024 Wonderland of Lights with your time, talent and energy
From my family to yours, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Amy Ware
MAYOR,
CITY OF MARSHALL
Things to do in Wonderland
A TIMELESS TREASURE
Our restored vintage Allen Herschell carousel is a treat for all ages. Carousel rides will take place on the historic square, where the 1901 Historical Harrison County Courthouse adorned in white lights serves as a picture-perfect backdrop. Tickets are $3.
SKATE INTO THE SPIRIT OF THE SEASON
The outdoor ice skating rink continues to be a main attraction during every season. The beautifully lit Harrison County Courthouse provides the perfect backdrop while skaters enjoy a night on the ice. The covered ice rink means less rain outs and more happy memory-making! You won’t just find lights over head; they’re frozen inside the ice too!
The outdoor ice skating rink is open Thursday-Sunday evenings, weather permitting. Sessions start every hour, on the hour, and last 45 minutes. Cost is $12 per person and includes skate rental. Where else can you skate outside on real ice in temperatures up to 70 degrees?
THE WONDERLAND EXPRESS
All aboard! Take a ride on our trackless train for a tour of the many light displays located throughout the downtown district.
The train boards on the north side of the Historical Harrison County Courthouse at Austin Street — look for the railroad crossing sign! Attendees will be entertained while waiting to board by various groups performing at Telegraph Park. If you ask nicely, the friendly conductor may even let you ring the bell!
Tickets are $5 per person, and the route runs approximately 8-10 minutes.
SANTA’S VILLAGE
For years, children and adults of all ages have enjoyed experiencing the magic of Christmas through Santa’s Village! The Village is a collection of tiny houses that each feature a fun, hands-on activity.
Children will discover the wonder of building their own toy inside the train depot — assisted by his elves. The wooden toy trains are assembled by the children with parts that are all made in America.
Parents, bring your camera to catch memories while your child enjoys some one-on-one time with Santa in his living room, letting him know what their Christmas wishes are. Just remember, he knows if you’ve been naughty or nice!
All activities at Santa’s Village are free to the public. Donations are welcome. Hours of operation are Thursday and Friday 6 to 8 p.m.,Saturday and Sunday 4 to 8 p.m. Santa’s Village is open Nov. 27 through Dec. 22.
"WAGON AND CARRIAGE RIDES: A JOURNEY THROUGH WONDERLAND OF LIGHTS!"
Join us for enchanting carriage and wagon rides starting at 6 p.m.! Immerse yourself in the festive spirit as you journey through stunning light displays. Enjoy a cozy
carriage ride for just $10 per person, departing every 15 minutes, or opt for a delightful wagon ride at only $5 per person. Perfect for families and friends, these rides are a memorable way to celebrate the season. Don’t miss out on this magical experience!
ENTERTAINMENT AT TELEGRAPH PARK
The sights and sound of Christmas can be found at Telegraph Park all the Wonderland Season. Bring a blanket, cuddle up and sing along. The schedule for entertainment can be found on our Facebook page.
PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES ABOUND
Remember those fun wooden vignettes with holes for you to put your face in? They are ready and waiting for every guest at Wonderland of Lights.
Special Events
OPENING LIGHTING CEREMONY
The Wonderland of Lights Opening Lighting Ceremony will take place at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 27 in front of the historic Harrison County Courthouse.
A brief ceremony will take place and feature performances from local dance groups and more. Wonderland of Lights begins when Santa Claus himself flips the switch on millions of white lights on the historic 1901 Harrison County Courthouse and along North Washington Avenue!
The fun continues with outdoor ice skating, carousel, train and horse drawn carriage rides through downtown’s dazzling light displays, Santa’s Village, and live entertainment. See you at countdown!
WASSAIL WALK A SAMPLING OF A SEASONAL CLASSIC
Downtown merchants will be competing for bragging rights for the best holiday brew during the Wassail Walk event.
The event is scheduled from Thursday Dec. 19, 4 to 7 p.m. Wassail is a hot drink that is made with wine, beer or cider, spices, sugar and usually baked apples. It is traditionally served from a large bowl, especially at Christmastime. Wassail Walk participants put their own twists on the recipes, which are heavily guarded secrets among the cooks. Wassail will be served at various shops, stores and restaurants in historic downtown Marshall.
Shoppers and other downtown visitors are invited to warm their bodies and spirits by sampling the various recipes, which will be judged on both taste and presen-
tation. Participating merchants are also battling for the coveted People’s Choice award in which shoppers and visitors will be able to cast their vote for the best wassail. The competition is fierce, but the wassail is a warm and welcome respite for holiday shoppers.
Wassail Walk is a great evening to come downtown, do a little Christmas shopping, drink some delicious warm wassail and enjoy the season.
CHRISTMAS PARADE LIGHTS UP DOWNTOWN IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE GREATER MARSHALL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
The 2024 Wonderland of Lights Christmas Parade will once again wind its way through historic downtown Marshall at 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7.
The lighted parade features antique and classic cars, marching bands, drill teams, lighted floats, mounted horses and, of course, Santa Claus. Trophies will be awarded for the following categories: best band presentation, best lighted entry, best lighted truck, best lighted car, peppiest entry, best lighted agricultural and most unique entry. Non-lighted entries will not be eligible for awards.
Entry forms for floats are due at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 27, 2024. Forms are available at the Greater Marshall Chamber of Commerce located at 110 S. Bolivar.
TIGERS ON ICE
Your East Texas Baptist University Hockey team is back for Tigers on Ice on Sunday, December 1 from 5 to 7 p.m.! Join us as the team takes the ice for a crash course in ice hockey. The team will run through a few
drills, break down the basics of the sport, and entertain us with a short scrimmage. Attendees will receive an autographed souvenir, and then the Tigers will be back on the ice to skate with children and their families.
The rink will follow the regular skating schedule, with 45 minute sessions running every hour, on the hour, from 5 to 7 p.m. Tickets to skate are $12 and include your skate rental.
MERRY MAVERICK BENEFITING THE MARSHALL EDUCATION FOUNDATION
Come and celebrate Christmas while working off some of those Christmas cookies by running in the Merry Maverick! Enjoy the Christmas atmosphere of Marshall, Texas as you wind through our downtown streets on Dec. 5 at 6 p.m.
OUTDOOR CHRISTMAS MARKET
The Outdoor Christmas Market, November 30, features vendors from around the region selling homemade Christmas and holiday crafts, decor, and plenty of great gifts and “stocking stuffers.” Booths line North Washington Avenue, inviting shoppers to stroll the street and
sidewalks exploring both the Market and the downtown shops.
Vendor applications will be accepted until Monday, Nov. 18 at 5 p.m. Contact Raven Lenz at blackbirdllc@ gmail.com or (903) 934-0154.
The event will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There is no admission cost!
THE NUTCRACKER
PRESENTED BY MARSHALL BALLET THEATRE
Share in Clara’s adventures as she is swept away by her Nutcracker Prince into an enchanting winter wonderland. Don’t miss dazzling dancing snowflakes, the famous Sugar Plum Fairy and the notorious Mouse King in the ultimate festive entertainment. Dec. 13, 14 and 15 at Memorial City Hall . More information available at www.memorialcityhall.com
CHRISTMAS CAR SHOW
Rusty Lug Nuts Second Saturday Car Show extends into the Christmas Season. Dec. 14, starting at 5 p.m.
Come stroll Main Street and spectate classic hot rods wearing your best ugly Christmas Sweater.
Community Events
MEMORIAL CITY HALL CLASSIC CHRISTMAS MOVIES
Thursday Dec. 5 at 6:30 p.m.: “It’s a Wonderful Life” starring Jimmy Stewart, Donna Reed and Lionel Barrymore. An angel is sent from Heaven to help a desperately frustrated businessman by showing him what life would have been like if he had never existed. Tickets are available at www.memorialcityhall.com. Adults tickets are $5, Children under 12 tickets are $3.
Sunday Dec. 22 at 3:30 p.m.: “Home Alone” starring Macaulay Culkin, Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern. An 8-yearold troublemaker, mistakenly left home alone, must defend his home against a pair of burglars on Christmas Eve. Tickets are available at www.memorialcityhall.com. Adults tickets are $5, Children under 12 tickets are $3.
DALLAS STRING QUARTET IN CONCERT AT MEMORIAL CITY HALL
Friday, Dec. 6 at 7:30 p.m. The Dallas String Quartet is “Back by popular demand!” An international music sensation, “Where Bach meets Bon Jovi,” the Dallas
String Quartet is known for interpretations of an eclectic range of styles, creating tasteful renditions of both modern and pop music classics in addition to updated takes on more traditional forms of music. A fusion of classical and contemporary music on both traditional and electric strings. With the 2019 release of their fifth album "A Very Merry Christmas with Dallas String Quartet," they presented 10 contemporary interpretations of classic holiday music. Tickets are available at www.memorialcityhall.com. Ticket cost is $56 for A, $51 for B and $46 for C seats. Sponsored by Verabank and McKool Smith.
WONDERLAND AT THE MICHELSON
When: Friday, Dec. 6 from 5 to 7 p.m
Where: Michelson Museum of Art, 216 N. Bolivar.
Step into the season at the Michelson Museum with a night of holiday magic! Bring your family for festive art activities, charming photo ops, and memories to treasure. Experience the stunning Christmas trees, each masterfully designed by Raymond Kelly, and celebrate the joy of art this season. Admission is free.
MARSHALL REGIONAL ARTS COUNCIL & PANOLA COLLEGE PRESENT: THE WONDER OF LIGHT CHRISTMAS MARKET
When: Saturday, Dec. 7, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Reception 10 a.m. – noon
Where: Marshall Place Gallery
Cost: Free admission
WONDER OF THE LIGHT ART EXHIBITION
The annual Marshall Regional Arts Council- and Panola College-sponsored art show showcases area artists' interpretation of the Nativity or a Christmas Festive scene through landscape, portraits, still life, etc. using oil; acrylic; water media; graphics; printmaking; and mixed media.
Art Exhibition Opening Reception is Saturday, Dec. 7 from 10 a.m. to noon.
When: Nov. 12, 2024 - Jan. 10, 2025 (Mondays through Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; Fridays from 8 a.m. to noon)
Where: Marshall Place Gallery, 1300 E. Pinecrest Drive, Marshall, TX 75670.
PATTERSON CHRYSLER DODGE JEEP RAM OF MARSHALL & CYPRESS JUNIOR WOMEN'S CLUB PRESENT: SUPPER WITH SANTA EXTRAVAGANZA
Put on your favorite PJs and join Santa for Cajun Tex's world-famous chicken pasta and chicken tenders
for the kids! $1 raffle tickets are available for dozens of incredible prizes, crafts, games, local entertainment and more for just a $5 dinner ticket per person. Proceeds benefit annual grants to Harrison County nonprofit organizations. Follow us on Facebook at Cypress Junior Women's Club, or find the event at 2024 Supper with Santa Extravaganza.
When: Friday, Dec. 6, 5 to 7:30 p.m.
Where: Marshall Convention Center, 2501 East End Blvd. S.
Cost: $5 dinner ticket per person (children 2 and under FREE)
CHRISTMAS IN CARTHAGE
Panola College will host its annual Christmas in Carthage musical event on Dec. 3 at 7 p.m. at the Carthage Civic Center. This event will feature the Panola College band and choir, along with special guest performers. Tickets will be available to purchase at the door.
December 7from2-4PM
ChristmasTea at Memorial City Hall
December 19
WassailWalk
Call 903-935-8417for details.
December
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www.facebook.com/HarrisonCountyHistory
TUESDAY-FRIDAY10-4 •SATURDAY 11-2 •SUNDAY-MONDAYCLOSED 1PETERWHETSTONESQUARE,MARSHALL,TX•(903)935-8417EXT.1
Monday - Saturday 11:00am - 9:00pm
903-472-4555
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Opening Ceremony 5:30 p.m. Courthouse Lighting 6:15 p.m. Santa's Village Opens 6:30 p.m. First Skate 7 p.m.
CAROUSEL
Take a delightful spin on this beautifully restored carousel for just $3 per rider.
ICE SKATING
hours of operation
Thursday 5 - 9 p.m.
Friday 6 - 10 p.m.
Saturday 4 - 10 p.m.
Sunday 4 - 9 p.m.
Santa's Hours
Thursday & Friday 6 - 8 p.m.
Saturday & Sunday 4 - 8 p.m.
Enjoy 45-minute sessions, every hour on the hour. For just $12 per skater, your admission includes skate rental so you can glide effortlessly on the ice.
WONDERLAND EXPRESS
All aboard the trackless train! Join us for an exciting ride through downtown for just $5 per rider.
CARRIAGE & WAGON RIDES
Take a ride on a horse-drawn carriage through downtown for just $10 per rider. Enjoy a wagon ride around the stunning courthouse for only $5 per rider.
SANTA'S VILLAGE
Crafts, face painting, letters to Santa and photos with Santa. Free for the kids!
All festivities will be in Downtown Marshall
MCH:Memorial City Hall
TPK: Telegraph Park
Calendar of Events
NOVEMBER 28 - DECEMBER 29
Dining, Shopping & More
Merchants will have extended hours for Wonderland.
Dining
THE BLUE FROG AND BLISSMOOR RANCH BAR
208 N. Washington
Monday - Saturday 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Breakfast, Full Bar, Diner, Market
BREAD OF HEAVEN
211 N Wellington
Monday - Friday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Welcomes our guests as though they were part of our family as we help nourish your soul with the love and touch of soul food
CAJUN TEX
104 W. Grand
Monday - Thursday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Cajun and Creole Cuisine, burgers, steaks, and salads
THE GINOCCHIO
707 N. Washington
Lunch Tuesday - Friday 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Dinner Tuesday - Saturday 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Fine dining, exquisite cocktails in a unique and historic setting
HIGH HORSE 1898
211 N. Washington
Monday through Saturday: Lunch 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Lite Bits from 2 to 5 p.m.; Thursday through Saturday: 5 to 9 p.m. Full Bar
JOE PINE COFFEE CO.
207 N. Washington
Monday - Saturday 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Signature coffee drinks, baked goods and East Texas gear
PAZZERIA BY PIETRO’S
101 W. Austin
Monday - Saturday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Italian pastas and gourmet pizzas
R&R BAKERY AND COFFEE SHOPPE
115 E. Houston
Monday - Friday 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Grilled Sandwiches, soups, salads and bakery
ROSARIA’S
Tuesday through Saturday, 4 to 9 p.m.
Modern Mexican
- continued on page 24
SQUARE NUTRITION
312 N. Washington
Monday - Friday 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Shake and tea bar offering over 30 flavors
TAVOLO 13 BY PIETRO’S
205 N. Washington
Thursday - Saturday 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Reservations recommended, walk-ins welcome.
Modern take on American classics
Steak and seafood
Shopping
AUDREY B’S BOUTIQUE
100 W. Grand, Suite C
Tuesday - Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Children’s, juniors, and ladies clothing boutique
BLACK BIRD BATHHOUSE
311 N. Washington
Tuesday - Saturday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Handmade soaps, shampoos, bath melts, bath bombs & beard oils
DEBORAH’S BOUTIQUE
100 W. Grand
Monday - Friday
9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Ladies clothing boutique and accessories
THE GENERAL STORE - ADDICTIONS BY RHONDA
216 N. Washington
Tuesday - Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Clothing, accessories, and home goods
MARSHALL FLORAL
211 N Washington
Monday - Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Boutique floral shop specializing in weddings, events and everyday floral designs
MARSHALL MERCANTILE
211 N Washington 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Gifts, goods, and gourmet market in the historical Joe Weisman building.
MIKE’S SHOE STORE
300 N Washington Street
Monday - Saturday 9 a.m .to 5 p.m.
Safety boots and shoes for all types of work environments. On site shoe repair and friendly staff!
PENELOPE RODE BOUTIQUE
210 N Washington
Monday - Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Western Fashion, Hat Bar & More!
ROYAL CYPRESS
310-A N. Washington
Thursday and Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Men, women, and children clothing and unique gifts
SHEALITY
314 N. Washington
Tuesday through Saturday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
From fashion to home decor and beyond, we carry unique clothing and gifts for all the girls!
- continued on page 26
THE GUYS STORE
314 N. Washington
Tuesday through Saturday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Catering to the working guy or the weekend warrior. Offers a variety of suits, polos and button-downs for all seasons.
THE GROVE AT THE STATION
201 S. Bolivar
Tuesday through Friday: 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.;
Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
We are a ladies boutique offering apparel, shoes, jewelry and unique gift items.
Museums
THE MICHELSON MUSEUM OF ART
216 N. Bolivar
Tuesday - Friday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Saturday 1 to 4 p.m.
Sunday and Monday: CLOSED
HARRISON COUNTY
HISTORICAL MUSEUM
1 Peter Whetstone Square
Tuesday - Friday 11 a.m. to 3 p.m
Saturday 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
SERVICE AND SACRIFICE:
HARRSION COUNTY AT WAR STEVE AND PENNY CARLILE GALLERY PATRICIA
A. VAUGHAN/THE JONESVILLE
FOUNDATION MEZZANINE GALLERY
110 E. Houston
Tuesday - Friday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Saturday 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
TRAVELING and ROTATING EXHIBITS
STARR FAMILY HOME
STATE HISTORIC SITE
407 W. Travis
Monday: CLOSED
Tuesday- Saturday 10 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Sunday: CLOSED
TEXAS AND PACIFIC RAILWAY MUSEUM AND GIFT SHOP
Historic Marshall Depot
Wednesday - Saturday 11 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Entertainment
LEGENDS SOCIAL CLUB
303 N. Columbus
Monday - Thursday 4 p.m. to 12 a.m.
Friday and Saturday 4 p.m. to 2 a.m
Sunday 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Double decker sports bar and music venue with full food service
MEMORIAL CITY HALL
110 E. Houston
A state-of-the-art auditorium, performing arts and conference center
RUEGGENBACH BREWERY CO.
108 W Houston
Proposed Business Hours:
Wednesday - Saturday: 2 to 10 p.m., Sunday: Noon to 6pm Craft Beer made on site!
Places to Stay
HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS & SUITES
500 Interstate 20 East (903) 934-9700
BEST WESTERN
EXECUTIVE INN
5201 East End Blvd. (903) 935-0707
DAYS INN & SUITES
5555 East End Blvd. South (903) 935-1941
ECONO LODGE
5904 East End Blvd. South (903) 935-1135
LA QUINTA INN & SUITES
6015 East End Blvd. South (903) 934-3080
Hotels
CLARION POINTE
MARSHALL & EAST END
CONVENTION CENTER
5301 East End Blvd. South (903) 927-0009
COMFORT SUITES
5204 East End Blvd. South (903) 927-1139
FAIRFIELD INN & SUITES
150 West Interstate 20 (903) 938-7666
HAMPTON INN
5100 East End Blvd. South (903) 927-0079
MOTEL 6
300 Interstate 20 East (903) 935-4395
RODEWAY INN
5301 East End Blvd. South (903) 927-0009
Motels
AMERICA’S BEST VALUE INN
100 Interstate 20 West (903) 927-1718
ARYA INN
300 Interstate 20 East Frontage Road (903) 934-3104
BUDGET INN
502 East End Blvd. South (903) 935-7984
BURNETT MOTEL
205 E. Pinecrest (903) 938-6648
RELAX INN
400 E. Pinecrest (903) 935-8344
TEXAS INN
1100 East End Blvd. South (903) 938-4333
TRAVEL INN
302 E. Pinecrest (903) 935-7862
QUALITY INN
9411 East End Blvd. South (903) 935-7923
Downtown Lodging
AVELAR SUITES 212 N. Washington Avelarsuites.com (903) 702-8314
THE HISTORIC TURNER HOUSE
Downtown Marshall tiny.cc/historicturnerhouse
WISTERIA GARDEN B&B
215 E. Rusk (903) 240-8390 www.wisteriagarden.com
Merry Christmas
