KILLEEN, Texas (Nov. 30, 2023) – Killeen’s annual Holiday Under the Stars begins this Friday, Dec. 1, with a market and traditional tree lighting.
Once again, the mayor and Santa will be on hand to light the tree at the Santa Fe Plaza on Avenue D. Food and craft vendors will be available as part of a night market. The festivities begin at 6 p.m. and will include performances by Killeen High School and Ellison High School vocal groups, and a jazz gospel flautist with the tree lighting at 6 p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 2, the Centex Race Series continues with the Jingle Bell Dash 5K at the Andy K. Wells Hike & Bike Trail with an 8 a.m. start. This fun race always has a number of participants dressed in festive holiday gear.
Holiday Under The Stars concludes Saturday, Dec. 9, with the Festival of the Holidays and annual Christmas Parade. The festival will be held from 4-8 p.m. in Downtown Killeen. It features holiday-themed arts and craft vendors, food vendors and more. It will also feature Shoemaker High School’s steel drumline and several other musical acts, ending with soul/blues artist Luke Whitney.
Our annual Christmas Parade will highlight the evening as it begins at 6 p.m. near City Hall and will run through Downtown Killeen. This is the 60th anniversary of the parade and will once again be highlighted by a visit from Santa.
Due to the festivities several downtown roads will be closed throughout the two weekends, and on Dec 9, the Main Library will close at 1 p.m.