The holidays come fast in Lubbock, and the best traditions fill up quickly. Here are the dates worth putting on your calendar now.
Quick answer
Lubbock’s biggest 2026 holiday dates are Christmas on Broadway on Saturday, Dec. 5 (4 to 9 p.m., free), Texas Tech’s Carol of Lights on Sunday, Dec. 6 (ceremony at 7 p.m.) and Candlelight at the Ranch on Friday, Dec. 11.
Christmas on Broadway: Saturday, Dec. 5
Downtown Broadway turns into a holiday street party from 4 to 9 p.m., with free photos with Santa, holiday shopping, food trucks, live Christmas music and giveaways. It is free, and both family and pet friendly.
Carol of Lights at Texas Tech: Sunday, Dec. 6
Texas Tech’s 68th annual Carol of Lights switches on more than 30,000 lights across campus. The carillon concert starts at 6:30 p.m. and the ceremony at 7 p.m. in the Science Quadrangle, just west of Memorial Circle. Expect choirs, the Masked Rider and a big crowd, so arrive early.
Candlelight at the Ranch: Friday, Dec. 11
The National Ranching Heritage Center lights its historic ranch buildings by candle and lantern for one of the area’s most atmospheric holiday traditions. Check the center’s website for times and any ticket details closer to the date.
Plan around the closures
The Museum of Texas Tech University is closed Nov. 26 to 30 for Thanksgiving and Dec. 23 to Jan. 1 for winter break. The Ranching Heritage Center also closes Thanksgiving weekend and from Christmas Eve through New Year’s.
We will add more holiday events to the events calendar as they are confirmed. Know about one we missed? Tell us about it.
Keep exploring
- Carol of Lights event details
- Christmas on Broadway event details
- 6 free things to do in Lubbock
- All upcoming Lubbock events
Frequently asked questions
When is Carol of Lights 2026?
Sunday, Dec. 6, 2026. The carillon concert starts at 6:30 p.m. and the ceremony at 7 p.m. in the Science Quadrangle at Texas Tech.
When is Christmas on Broadway in Lubbock?
Saturday, Dec. 5, 2026, from 4 to 9 p.m. on Broadway downtown. It’s free, with photos with Santa, food trucks and live music.
When is Candlelight at the Ranch 2026?
Friday, Dec. 11, 2026, at the National Ranching Heritage Center. Check the center’s website for times and tickets.
Last checked: October 22, 2026. Details change, so confirm before you go.
