Abilene’s 36th annual Christmas Lane now open, features 150+ displays, free entry

The Abilene Volunteer Services Council’s 36th annual Christmas Lane is now underway at the Abilene State Supported Living Center (ABSSLC).

The free-to-the-public event features a drive-through display of more than 150 lighted outdoor scenes and an indoor area designated as the Winter Wonderland.

Admission is free, and organizers note that donations are welcome. While entry is free, Santa photos are available for a $5 fee between 6:30 and 8:30 p.m. each night, and concessions, including hot chocolate, are also available for purchase ($1-$3 each). All funds raised through concessions and donations will benefit the more than 240 people living at the ABSSLC.

Attractions and Special Guests

The indoor Winter Wonderland allows visitors to stop by and see a train display and make a call on the North Pole Hotline, in addition to meeting Santa.

The event is also hosting several special guests and themed nights:

• The Grinch is scheduled to appear on Dec. 6, Dec. 9, Dec. 15, Dec. 17, and Dec. 23 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
• Super Hero Night will take place on Dec. 20 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
• Pajama Night is scheduled for Dec. 22.

Schedule of Operation

The Christmas Lane operates on a tiered schedule through Christmas:

• From Dec. 2 through Dec. 15, displays are open from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday and Monday, and 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.
• From Dec. 16 through Dec. 23, the event hours are uniform, running daily from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
• During this entire period (Dec. 2 through Dec. 23), Santa is available nightly from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. for photos.
• After Dec. 23, only the outdoor displays will remain open from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. through Dec. 26.

More Details

The Christmas Lane is located at the Abilene State Supported Living Center, 2501 Maple Street, Abilene, TX 79602. More information is available at the event’s Facebook page and on the organization’s website, abilenevsc.org.

The Abilene Volunteer Services Council is a non-profit organization committed to making life better for the people who live and work at Abilene State Supported Living Center.