ChristmasLogo_mainSMALLThe 2nd Annual Christmas Under the Stars Festival is shaping up to be better than ever with the addition of new events, attractions, and some great holiday fun.  This year, the Brownwood Area Chamber of Commerce is teaming up with Howard Payne University to offer some of these new and unique activities for all ages on Friday, December 3rd and Saturday, December 4th from 4pm to 8pm each night.

The main festival will take place on Howard Payne University campus under the bell towers where non-profit agencies will offer fun activities such as letters to Santa, face painting, cookie decorating, pony rides, pet bowl decorating, Christmas story time, a teen scavenger hunt, and much more.    Howard Payne will also have their Outdoor Recreation Center* open with youth activities such as rock wall climbing, skating, snacks, and video game competitions.

An entertainment stage will also be featured during the festival where local talent can showcase their skills in front of a live audience.  Acts will rotate on stage and will feature the Brownwood High School Choir, Amy’s Dance Academy dancers, Christmas karaoke, and several other local entertainers.   Saturday will also feature the announcement of winners in the Santa’s Sleigh 5K Fun Run that will take place that morning at Riverside Park.

Commercial vendors will also be on hand offering some great holiday shopping ideas including jewelry, food & drink, home décor, arts & crafts and more.

The event will be capped off with a free community Christmas concert by the HPU Concert Choir and Symphonic Band in Mims Auditorium.   The concert will run from 8pm-9pm on December 3rd and 4th.

The Lehnis Railroad Museum will also be hosting Christmas festival activities.   Kids can enjoy pictures with Santa, mini-train rides, Choo-Choo Tim, and the premier of an all new attraction called “Buster World.”   A trolley will be available for transport between Howard Payne campus and the Railroad Museum and parking is encouraged at the museum.

For a complete list of Christmas Under the Stars activities, visit BrownwoodChamber.org or call the Brownwood Area Chamber of Commerce at 325-646-9535.

*All participants at the Outdoor Recreation Center need to provide their own in-line skates and/or skateboard and helmet. All participants will be required to sign a waiver, if under the age of 18 their parent will need to sign.  Any participant under the age of 18 will need a parent present at all time. Entry into the Outdoor Recreational Center is free.