The Christmas Tree Stroll at Shangri La Botanical Gardens in Texas Is One of My Favorite Holiday Traditions

Shangri-La Botanical Gardens in Texas knows how to get into the festive spirit. I attended their Scarecrow Festival in October for Halloween, and my family and I never miss the chance to experience the annual Let it Stroll holiday walk at Christmastime. This year was no exception, and it was the most magical one yet. Complete with thousands of twinkling lights, bigger and better displays, decorated Christmas trees, and festive treats, the highly anticipated event was the perfect way to ring in my holiday season.

Typically held from early December until a few days before Christmas, Let it Stroll is a family-friendly event that transforms the gardens into a winter wonderland. Visitors meander through the nature center on a paved path lined with festive displays, Christmas trees, and — of course — glittering lights galore. I walked under glowing archways, marveled at giant ornaments dangling from trees, and admired dozens of unique Christmas trees decorated by local businesses, schools, and organizations. This Texas-themed tree was probably my favorite of the year — although there were so many creative ones! 

I can’t forget about the biggest Christmas tree of all, situated on a platform in the center of the garden’s man-made lake. It’s majestic as can be, trimmed up to the max and illuminating the darkness like a guiding beacon.

Since Shangri-La is a botanical garden, many of the displays are nature-centric. I adored this animal scene (especially with Santa fishing in the background!). 

There are plenty of photo-ops along the way as well as a snow machine, making for an interactive experience guaranteed to add a heaping cup of cheer to your holidays.

Of course, what good are the holidays without sweets? Hot cocoa, cookies, cake, and other goodies are available for purchase at the entrance. A local winery also has a booth set up if you’d like to sip an adult beverage while you stroll. The cocoa was just perfect (surprisingly not too sweet!), and the cookies were chewy and studded with chocolate chips.

Admission is free for all ages. Visit the Shangri-La Botanical Gardens & Nature Center website for more information about Let it Stroll, including this year’s calendar. You can also visit Shangri-La’s Facebook page to see additional photos. If you can’t make it this season, be sure to add the event to your itinerary for next year! 

Have you ever attended Let it Stroll at Shangri-La Botanical Gardens in Texas? If so, what did you think of the event? Check out our previous article for more of the best winter attractions in Texas. If you’re looking to hike more in the new year, why not gift yourself a subscription to AllTrails+? The app comes in handy with perks like printable maps and wrong-turn alerts, making for seamless hiking trips.