Luminaria-lighted paths, Christmas music, Santa Claus, and real life scenes dating back to the 1780’s are all apart of 35th Annual Candlelight at the Ranch hosted by the National Ranching Heritage Center.
Emily Wilkinson has been in charge of Candlelight the last seven years and she said it is the largest event the center hosts with over 10,000 people attending last year.
“We start planning the event around October,” she said, “it requires of 150 volunteers to put on.”
Wilkinson said Every structure is decorated for Christmas and has volunteers reenacting things that would have taken place during the time period of that structure., She said it is like a living Christmas card.
Wilkinson said hot cocoa and cider are provided, and Santa is there for the kids. She said this is all preparation for people to get into the holiday spirit while also learning a little about Texas history.
“People really like it because it is a festive holiday celebration they can share with their family,” Wilkinson said, “it has become a annual tradition for many.”
The event is free and takes place on December 13th and 14th from 6 to 9 p.m.
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