This December, Texas holiday traditions come alive with two beloved events celebrating cowboy culture and the spirit of the season: Cocoa with Cowboys in Georgetown and the Texas Cowboys’ Christmas Ball in Anson.
“Cocoa with Cowboys:” A Georgetown Tradition Since 2008
Saddle up for a night of holiday spirit at the annual “Cocoa with Cowboys” event, hosted on Thursday, December 7th, from 6 PM to 8 PM, at 716 South Austin Avenue. Guests can enjoy complimentary hot cocoa and Christmas cookies while celebrating the season with cowboy charm.
The idea for “Cocoa with Cowboys” originated in 2008 when Mickie Ross envisioned a festive event to align with the annual Stroll, aiming to engage visitors with fun, history, and yuletide cheer. Over the years, it has become a beloved tradition, combining holiday festivities with a nod to Texas cowboy heritage.
What to Expect
Attendees will:
- Sip delicious hot cocoa and savor Christmas cookies under the lights of Georgetown Square.
- Enjoy a live musical performance by Evelyn Billington, filling the air with festive melodies from 6 PM to 8 PM.
- Hear stories of cowboy life on the trail, bringing a touch of history to the holiday celebration.
Event Details
- Date & Time: Thursday, December 7, 2023, 6 PM – 8 PM
- Location: 716 South Austin Ave, Georgetown, TX
- Cost: Free
For more information, contact the Williamson Museum at 512-943-1670 or [email protected].
Celebrate the season with a cowboy twist—don’t miss this free, family-friendly holiday tradition!
Texas Cowboys’ Christmas Ball: A Western Heritage Celebration
With a history dating back to 1885, the Texas Cowboys’ Christmas Ball is a cherished tradition rooted in the frontier spirit of Anson, Texas. Originally held at the Star Hotel, the event has grown into a cultural icon, drawing visitors from across the globe to celeb rate Western heritage through music, dance, and storytelling.
Event Details:
- Dates: December 12–14, 2024
- Location: Pioneer Hall, 2301 Avenue G, Anson, TX
- Doors Open: 7 PM
- Dancing: 8 PM–Midnight
The three-night celebration features performances by acclaimed Texas musicians:
- December 12: Michael Martin Murphey
- December 13: Billy Mata and the Texas Tradition
- December 14: Jody Nix and His Texas Cowboys
Tickets are available online or at the door, with pricing ranging from $10 to $30 for single nights and discounts for multi-night passes. Children 12 and under attend for free.
Dress Code:
To preserve its historical authenticity, the Ball enforces a strict dress code:
- Ladies: Dresses required; split skirts or pants are not permitted on the dance floor.
- Men: Hats must be checked before entering the dance floor.
First held in Pioneer Hall in 1939, the Ball has gained national recognition thanks to Larry Chittenden’s 1890 poem The Cowboys’ Christmas Ball and John Lomax’s 1910 book Cowboy Songs and Other Frontier Ballads. Michael Martin Murphey’s music and annual performances have further cemented its legacy.
For more details, visit the official website or call (325) 696-9040.
