The Smithville Area Chamber of Commerce presents
Celebrating Our Christmas Traditions and
Railroad Heritage Along the Ol' Katy Line
THE 35th ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS
DECEMBER 5, 2026
FESTIVITIES BEGIN 10:00 AM
PARADE BEGINS 6:30 PM
All Aboard the Hometown Holiday Express!
Join us in Downtown Smithville for The 35th Annual Festival of Lights: Christmas on the Katy Line, a full-day hometown holiday celebration rooted in Smithville’s railroad heritage, festive downtown spirit, and family-friendly Christmas fun.
Set on the former MK&T rail yard grounds at the MKT Depot and Railroad Park, this year’s celebration brings families, visitors, local businesses, and community groups together for a day filled with Santa, Ann Powell Express Trolley rides, shopping, food, music, kids activities, classic cars, and a sparkling lighted parade.
Come early, stay all day, explore downtown, and experience Christmas the Smithville way.
KIDS' ZONE
ACTIVITIES
THE KATY MERCHANTILE
RAILS TO ROADS
CAR SHOW
SOUNDS ALONG
THE KATY LINE
KATY CHRISTMAS
EXPRESS PARADE
DOWNTOWN
WHISTLE STOPS
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VISIT SMITHVILLE
ACCOMMODATIONS
CONTACT
ORGANIZERS
KATY LINE CHILI
COOK-OFF
Festival at a Glance
DAYTIME ACTIVITIES
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Begins - 10:00 AM
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Ends - 4:00pm
Downtown Smithville
CHILI COOK-OFF
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Registration 7:30 to 9:30 AM
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Winners Announced 3:30 PM
Along 1st Street
MUSIC AT THE GAZEBO
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Begins - 10:00 AM
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Ends - 4:00pm
Smithville Railroad Park
SANTA'S STATION ARRIVAL
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MKT Depot - TBD
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Visits - TBD
MKT Depot
KIDS ACTIVITIES
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Begins - 10:00 AM
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Ends - 4:00pm
1st Street at Main
LIGHTED PARADE
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Begins - 6:30 PM
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Starts from South Main
Main Street
CLASSIC CAR SHOW
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Begins - 10:00 AM
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Awards at - TBD
Along Main Street
INDOOR VENDOR FAIR
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Begins - 10:00 AM
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Ends - 4:00pm
106 Royston Street
LOCAL MERCHANT SPECIALS
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Downtown Shopping & Dining
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See "Whistle Stops" for specials
Downtown Smithville
Holiday Cheer Sponsored by
