lubbock – Lubbocks Home and Family Magazine

Local Christmas Fun

Courtney Dietz — Wed, 10 Jan 2024 23:52:00 +0000

Local Christmas Fun

Kara Hyden

The Christmas season is quickly approaching, and families will be looking for fun things to do; places to see lights, Santa, and family-friendly events. We’ve curated a list of exciting and unique opportunities for all things Christmas in the Lubbock area.

Carol of Lights at Texas Tech University

Saturday, December 2 at 7:00 PM

This year, Texas Tech has been celebrating their centennial year, and the Carol of Lights is included in the celebration. Although this will be the 65th annual event, it’s bigger than ever before. This year includes live entertainment, new staging, lighting and sound, along with a big fireworks display. The event is held at Memorial Circle and the Science Quad campus.

The Carol of Lights is one of Texas Tech’s oldest and largest traditions. If you have a Christmas bucket list, this event should be on it. It’s free, but be sure to arrive early to get a good spot.

Ranching Heritage Center’s Candlelight at the Ranch

December 8 & 9, 6:30-9:00 PM

This year, the Ranching Heritage Center celebrates its 45th event. Although it’s free, they ask for a $5 per family donation.

Holiday scenes will be recreated in 15 historic structures, and visitors are provided maps. All pathways are lit to help with strollers and wheelchairs so everyone can enjoy the historic ranch. Refreshments will be available for purchase. Take your family and enjoy a throwback Christmas experience.

Adventure Park

Dinner with Santa: December 8th & 15th, 5:00-7:00 PM

Christmas in the Park: December 8/9, 15/16 & 22/23, 5:00-8:00 PM

Ice Skating in the Park: November 24–January 1

Whether you want to go ice skating, have dinner with Santa, or see some spectacular lights, Adventure Park is the place to be this holiday season.

Ice Skating opens Friday, November 24 and ends Monday, January 1. Ice skating is available Fridays-Sundays, and the whole week of Christmas, except Christmas Day. Cost is $10 per person and rentals are $5.49.

If ice skating isn’t your cup of tea, take your kids and have Dinner with Santa. The magical evening includes a slice of pizza, drink and a s’mores kit, a train ride around the park, and a photo with Santa. Prices are $12 for adults (13+), $7 for children (3-12) and toddlers (2 & under) are free.

And for those that just want to enjoy a low-key, but beautiful night, reserve your space for Christmas in the Park. This package includes a train ride through the park, hot cocoa, and a s’mores kit by the campfire, and includes the Adventure Tower to view over 500,000 lights along with great views of the city.

Regardless of which package you enjoy with your family, you’re guaranteed a great and unique experience. Reservations are required for all activities. So, visit their website at https://adventureparkfun.com to secure your spot.

Santa Land at Mackenzie Park

December 9-21, 6:00-10:00 PM

The City of Lubbock Parks and Recreation will host the 67th annual Santa Land. Approximately 50,000 people visit each year to see the huge lighted Christmas tree, animated displays, holiday light displays in various villages, and Santa and Mrs. Claus. Children come from Lubbock and surrounding areas to tell Santa their Christmas wishes. They can also take a photo with Santa and Mrs. Claus. There is live entertainment on most evenings, and hot chocolate and other refreshments are available for purchase at the concession stand. Entry into Santa land is free for everyone.

Whether you’ve gone to these places for years or are ready to make new memories, Lubbock has plenty of holiday activities for families to enjoy. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Spring Family Fun

Courtney Dietz — Sun, 30 Apr 2023 05:00:00 +0000

Spring Family Fun

Maggi Gallaspy

Walk through a pasture of steel giants, see Lubbock’s most iconic glasses, sit back and relax while children explore a whole new imaginative world, allow butterflies to rest gently on your shoulders, step into the wild West and experience the life of a World War II fighter pilot. These one-of-a-kind experiences are available with a trip to one of Lubbock’s premier museums.

Whether you’re searching for a place to spend a rainy day, just want to get out of the house or have a few history buffs around, taking advantage of the cultural exhibits in these six museums is a great way to spend a spring or summer day.

An extensive look at Lubbock’s museum scene, this list features family-friendly museums with activities for every age.

American Windmill Museum

The largest windmill museum in the world, this plot of Lubbock land is filled with refurbished structures as far as the eyes can see. Open Tuesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., choose between a leisurely stroll through the property and a guided tour if you have a group of 6 or more.

According to the American Windmill Museum website, admission is $7.50 for adults, $5.00 for children 5 to 12 years old, under 5 free, $6.00 for seniors 60+ and veterans, $20.00 for a family of 4 (2 adults & 2 children). Active Duty Military and their household family are admitted free with a Military I.D.

For a unique summer experience, the American Windmill Museum will host a summer art camp from June 5th to July 28th. Kids aged 5 and up are welcome and registration is $130 per week, per student if you are a member of the museum, $150 for non-members.

Buddy Holly Center

Known as the place where art and music collide, the Buddy Holly Center displays and interprets artifacts that pay tribute to musicians of West Texas, most notably Lubbock’s most famous native son, Buddy Holly. Before you step inside, check out the iconic statue of the music legend outside the museum.

Entry into the museum is $10 for general admission, $8 for senior citizens (60+), $5 for children 7-17, $5 for college students with an ID and free to children six and under, museum members and active duty military. If you’re just stopping by for the Fine Arts Gallery, admission is free to all.

This summer, the Buddy Holly Center is hosting a showcase concert series! Every Thursday from May 18 to August 17, local and regional bands will perform across many genres. The concerts will run from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. and are free for all to enjoy. Access to food trucks, a cash bar and free children’s activities will be available! A full concert lineup can be found on the Buddy Holly Center website.

Play Street Museum

This educational play space is a great way to keep your kids entertained during the summer! With a town square and interactive exhibits, kids are free to use their imaginations and creatively play, discover and problem-solve.

Located on Slide road, this museum is in a great location to catch lunch at Blue Sky Texas and fill up on homemade burgers, house-cut fries and perfectly breaded mozzarella sticks. When you leave, swing by another local favorite, J’s Creamery for a sweet treat for you and the kiddos!

Before heading over for a day of adventure, make a reservation ahead of time. Slots are available Monday to Friday 8:30 – 10:00 a.m., 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 pm, 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. and 3:30 – 5:00 p.m. Book on the PSM Lubbock website.

Science Spectrum

The Science Spectrum and Omni Theater have amazing activities for families with younger kids, and the museum features many interactive exhibits, including the Butterflies Alive! event returning March 11 and running through the end of June.

Learn about the magic of bubbles, explore the Children’s Museum, visit the Gallery of Flight, watch a live animal show and more with entry to the museum.

For combo tickets to the museum and theater, prices are $14.50 for adults, $12 for children and seniors and $6.50 for members.

The museum is open Monday to Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday 1 to 5 p.m.

Be on the lookout for special summer camp details coming soon to their website.

National Ranching Heritage Center

For all things wild west, travel back in time with a stop by the National Ranching Heritage Center. This 27-acre museum and the historical park can be toured by a trolley every Thursday at 10:30 a.m.

With educational programs and exhibits about ranching history and contemporary ranching issues, the museum is home to over 50 historical structures that were once in use.

The NRHC is always cooking up something new, and a comprehensive list of events can be found on its website. This summer, they are hosting a Summer Stampede. An art and gear show showcasing western artists and gear makers, tickets are now available to purchase. The event includes live music by Jake Hooker and the opportunity to view and purchase art. Proceeds benefit the museum!

Even though we covered five of Lubbock’s top-tier museums, this list is only the beginning. We hope this serves as an inspiration to help you research and decide which Lubbock treasure you want to explore!

There’s a Table for Everyone

Courtney Dietz — Sat, 31 Dec 2022 06:00:00 +0000

There's a Table for Everyone

Kristin Rodin

There are few things as enjoyable and exciting as food. It brings people together, plays a big role in communities, and just simply tastes amazing. If you’re looking for a new food experience, check out these five Lubbock restaurants – there’s something for everyone here!

The Farmhouse ($)

Start your day off right without breaking the bank at The Farmhouse. Enjoy classic breakfast and lunch dishes made with fresh ingredients and served by friendly staff eager to give you a great experience. Stop by either of their two locations, or place an order online, and you’ll have a fresh, easy meal to keep you going the rest of your day.

Triple J Chophouse and Brew Co. ($$)

Nothing beats well-crafted beer and dang good food at Lubbock’s Texas-themed brew pub, Triple J Chophouse. Specializing in high quality steaks and local brews on tap, their extensive menu also offers a variety of options to satisfy every guest. You won’t find a better pecan cheesecake than at this local favorite, too.

Raspados Colima ($)

The best street tacos won’t be found in any Tex-Mex spots, but at little hole-in-the-wall Raspados Colima. With two locations in Lubbock, you won’t be waiting long for classic Mexican dishes, street foods, and desserts. These family-owned restaurants are only open on specific days, but the fast, friendly atmosphere and flavorful food will keep you coming back every time.

The Nicolett ($$$)

There’s more to West Texas than beef and beer. The Nicolett brings a unique fine dining experience to downtown Lubbock with its refined menu, featuring regional ingredients and unique, exceptional flavors rarely found elsewhere. This modern gem is the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion or to enjoy their casual cocktail hour.

Vizo’s African Bar and Restaurant ($$)

More than one thing makes Vizo’s African Bar and Restaurant special in the Lubbock community. Owned by two Texas Tech University alums, Vizo’s was the first African restaurant to open in West Texas. Featuring authentic African foods and drinks, you’ll be able to try delicious dishes and connect with a new culture all in one place.

While there are so many places to try, these five restaurants are sure to give you a great experience and satisfy all your cravings!