Archive for the ‘Rail of Lights’ Category

The Old Fashion Christmas Parade in Jefferson Texas

December 16th, 2012 by carriagehouse

Santa and I waiting for the parade to start.

Christmas is one of my favorite times of year in Jefferson. Every weekend there is something new going on to celebrate the season. The first two weekend’s of the year are always the Candlelight Tour of Homes and the Christmas Carols at the local churches. The Rail of Lights Steam Train goes on every weekend from Thanksgiving to New Years. The Enchanted Forest with a hundred decorated and lit Christmas Trees in Lions Park is sure to put even Scrooge in the Christmas Spirit but my favorite event of the year is the Old Fashioned Christmas Parade which wanders through the streets of Jefferson the third Saturday of December.

This year, I was promoted to Chief Elf and got to ride on top of the fire truck with Santa Claus throwing candy out at the Kids. I had so much fun and hope I get to keep my position next year even though I will be off the Marion County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

Enjoy this little video I put together of our Santa having a little fun while waiting for the parade to start. I hope it brings a smile to your face and some Christmas Spirit to your day.

Tags: Carriage House Bed and Breakfast, Christmas, Jefferson Texas
Posted in Candlelight Tour of Homes, Christmas in Jefferson, Jefferson Texas, Rail of Lights, The Carriage House Bed and Breakfast | Comments Off

New Year’s Eve Train in Historic Jefferson Texas

December 22nd, 2011 by carriagehouse

Rail of Lights New Year’s Train – Jefferson, Texas

Blast into the New Year aboard the Rail of Lights New Year’s Train in Jefferson, Texas. The unforgettable ride on an old-fashioned steam train departs December 30th at 7 and 8 and on December 31st, New Year’s Eve, at 8:30, 9:30 and 11:30. Passengers will enjoy lighted scenes along the Cypress Bayou River as they hear the tale of New Year’s traditions, customs and superstitions.

The patrons will receive New Year’s hats and noisemakers. Each train will include a simulation of the New Year’s Eve Ball dropping in Times Square followed by a fantastic fire works show.

Hear about the unique New Year’s customs across the United States, including stories of the Good Luck Dragon in Oriental, North Carolina; Christkindl Market in Akron, Ohio; the Live Toy Soldier drum and light show in Bellevue, Washington; and Bourbon Street in New Orleans.

Children and adults alike will be awed by the historic railroad depot decked out with gingerbread house theme. The wonderful narrated tour will also give our patrons an opportunity to sing some of their favorite New Year’s songs as they discover the joy of New Years along the river.

Plan to stay the weekend in the Cypress Bayou RV Park, just one mile from Jefferson, and watch all of the fireworks as the train comes through the park. Ask about our holiday get-away pricing of $15 per night.

Ticket Prices: First Class $21; Coach Class: Adults $16.50; Lap children under 4 are free. First Class is offered in a beautiful historic, enclosed coach. If you are riding Coach Class, be sure to dress warmly and bring a blanket as you will be riding in open cars. Seats are limited, so purchase your tickets early.

Tickets are available by phone, on-line at www.jeffersonrailway.com and in person during business hours at the Historic Jefferson Railway Depot at 400 E. Austin, Jefferson Texas. Call 866-398-2038 or visit our website for ticket information.

Jefferson is nestled deep in the Piney Woods of East Texas and seems frozen in time. It is a charming town and an elegant reminder of a bygone era. The downtown area will be aglow with lights and greenery during the holiday season. There are over a hundred buildings in the city with historical markers. Many historic homes offer bed and breakfast accommodations. Dozens of other historic buildings house museums, craft and antique shops and restaurants.

New Year’s is a holiday celebrated around the World. You’ll want to make Jefferson and the New Year’s Train a part of your annual holiday festivities.

Tags: Carriage House B&B, Christmas, Historic Jefferson Railway, Hotels, Jefferson Texas, Romantic Getaway, Vacation, Weekend Getaway
Posted in Christmas in Jefferson, Historic Jefferson Railway, Holiday Trail of Lights, Jefferson Texas, New Years Eve Train, Rail of Lights, Specials and Promotions, The Carriage House Bed and Breakfast | Comments Off

Jefferson Texas Businesses Holiday Hours of Operations

December 21st, 2011 by carriagehouse

RESTAURANTS

HOLIDAY SEASON, 2011-2012

* AUNTIE SKINNER’S RIVERBOAT CLUB & RESTAURANT
107 W. Austin
Jefferson, TX
(903) 665-7121
Christmas Eve: 6:00 a.m.-???
Christmas Day: CLOSED
New Year’s Eve: 6:00 a.m.-2:00 a.m.
New Year’s Day: 6:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m.

* AUSTIN STREET BISTRO
117 E. Austin
Jefferson, TX
(903) 665-9700
Closed: December 24-January 9, 2012

* BAKERY RESTAURANT
201 W. Austin
Jefferson, TX
(903) 665-2253
Open: Christmas Eve: 7:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
Closed: Christmas Day
Open: New Year’s Eve: 7:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Open: New Year’s Day: 7:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.

* BEJE’S DINER
118 E. Henderson
Jefferson, TX
(903) 665-7055
Closed: Christmas Eve & Day
Open: New Year’s Eve and Day ???

* BLACK SWAN
210 W. Austin
Jefferson, TX
(214) 665-1958
Closed: Christmas Eve & Day
Open: New Year’s Eve: 5:00 p.m.-???

* BROOKSHIRE’S GROCERY
404 E. Broadway
Jefferson, TX
(903) 665-3601
Open: Christmas Eve: 7:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.
Closed: Christmas Day
Open: New Year’s Eve: 7:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m.
Closed: New Year’s Day

* DON JUAN’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT
402 N. Walcott
Jefferson, TX
(903) 665-6407
Closed: Christmas Eve & Day
Open: New Year’s Eve: 10:30 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
Closed: New Year’s Day

* EXCELSIOR HOUSE HOTEL
211 W. Austin
Jefferson, TX
(903) 665-2513
Christmas Eve & Day: 8:00 a.m.-9:30 a.m.
New Year’s Eve & Day: 8:00 a.m.-9:30 a.m.
Breakfast served. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED

* FIVE “D” CATTLE COMPANY
Hwy 49 West
Avinger, TX
(903) 562-1291
Closed: Christmas Eve & Day
Open: New Year’s Eve: 4:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m.
Closed: New Year’s Day

* HAMBURGER STORE
203 Market St.
Jefferson, TX
(903) 665-3251
Open: Christmas Eve: 10:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Closed: Christmas Day
Open: New Year’s Eve: 10:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Closed: New Year’s Day

* JOSEPH’S RIVERPORT BBQ
201 N. Polk
Jefferson, TX
Closed: Christmas Eve & Day
Open: New Year’s Eve: 11:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.
Closed: New Year’s Day

* KITT’S KORNBREAD SANDWICH & PIE BAR
125 N. Polk
Jefferson, TX
(903) 665-0505
Open: Christmas Eve: 11:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
Closed: Christmas Day
Open: New Year’s Eve: 11:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
Open: New Year’s Day: 11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.

* LAMACHE’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT
124 W. Austin
Jefferson, TX
(903) 665-2631 or 665-6177
Closed: Christmas Eve & Day
Open: New Year’s Eve:
RESERVATIONS REQUIRED @ 5:00 p.m., 7:00 p.m., 9:00 p.m
Closed: New Year’s Day

* MCDONALD’S RESTAURANT
Hwy 59
Jefferson, TX
Closed: Christmas Eve & Day
Closed: New Year’s Eve & Day

* RIVER BEND RESTAURANT
Uncertain, TX
(903) 679-9000
Closed: Christmas Eve & Day
Open: New Year’s Eve: 11:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m.
Open: New Year’s Day: 12:00 noon-7:00 p.m.

* STILLWATER INN
203 E. Broadway
Jefferson, TX
(903) 665-8415
Open: Christmas Eve: 5:30 p.m.-7:00 p.m.
RESERVATIONS REQUIRED
Closed: Christmas Day
Open: New Year’s Eve: 5:00 p.m.-10:00 p.m.
RESERVATIONS REQUIRED
Closed: New Year’s Day: Closed

* TEX-STOP SUBS & GRUB
104 S. Walcott (Hwy 49 & Hwy 59)
Jefferson, TX
Open: Christmas Eve: 6:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m.
Open: Christmas Day: 8:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m.
Open: New Year’s Eve: 6:00 a.m.-12:00 midnight
Open: New Year’s Day: 6:00 a.m.-12:00 midnight

MERCHANTS HOLIDAY SCHEDULE

* CITY DRUG
109 W. Lafayette
Jefferson, TX
(903) 665-2521
Open: Christmas Eve: 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Closed: Christmas Day
Open: New Year’s Eve: 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Closed: New Year’s Day

* COOTER’S SPIRITS
Hwy 59
Jefferson, TX
(903) 665-1018
Open: Christmas Eve: 10:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m.
Closed: Christmas Day
Open: New Year’s Eve: 10:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m.
Closed: New Year’s Day

* ELLIS POTTERY
Hwy 59 South
(903) 927-1041
Open: Christmas Eve: 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Closed: Christmas Day
Open: New Year’s Eve: 10:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
Closed: New Year’s Day

* ENOCH’S STOMP
Harleton, TX
(903) 240-1587
Open: Christmas Eve: 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
Closed: Christmas Day
Open: New Year’s Eve: 10:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
Closed: New Year’s Day

* FOOTSTEPS
118 N. Vale
Jefferson, TX
(903) 665-3338
Open: Christmas Eve: 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Closed: Christmas Day
Open: New Year’s Eve: 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Closed: New Year’s Day: 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

* JEFFERSON GENERAL STORE
113 E. Austin
Jefferson, TX
(903) 665-8481
Open: Christmas Eve: 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Closed: Christmas Day
Open: New Year’s Eve: 9:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.
Closed: New Year’s Day

* JEFFERSON IMAGES & BLACKBURN’S FACTORY
OUTLET
108 E. Lafayette
Jefferson, TX
(903) 665-1128
Open: Christmas Eve: 9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.
Closed: Christmas Day: Closed
Open: New Year’s Eve: 9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.
Open: New Year’s Day: 9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.

* MADE IN THE SHADE
212 E. Austin (next to Old Mill Antiques)
Jefferson, TX
(903) 665-8966
Open: Christmas Eve: 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
Closed: Christmas Day
Open: New Year’s Eve: 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
Closed: New Year’s Day

* LAFAYETTE GALLERY
123 N. Polk
Jefferson, TX
(903) 665-9000
Open: Christmas Eve: 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Closed: Christmas Day
Open: New Year’s Eve: 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Closed: New Year’s Day

* MY FATHER’S GARDEN
805 N. Walcott
(903) 665-6051
Closed: Christmas Eve through January

* OLD MILL ANTIQUES
210 E. Austin
Jefferson, TX
(903) 665-8601
Open: Christmas Eve: 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Closed: Christmas Day
Open: New Year’s Eve & Day: 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

* RIVER CITY MERCANTILE
111 Austin
Jefferson, TX
(903) 665-8270
Open: Christmas Eve: 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Closed: Christmas Day
Open: New Year’s Eve: 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m
Closed: New Year’s Day

* ROUTE 49 MOTORCLOTHES
610 N. Polk
Jefferson, TX
(903) 665-3349
Open: Christmas Eve: 11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Closed: Christmas Day
Open: New Year’s Eve: 11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Closed: New Year’s Day

* TEXSTOP CONVENIENCE STORE & GAS
104 S. Walcott
Jefferson, TX
Open: Christmas Eve & Day (24 hrs.)
Open: New Year’s Eve & Day (24 hrs.)

* TEXAS TEES
605 E. Broadway
Jefferson, TX
(903) 665-7256
Open: Christmas Eve: 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Closed: Christmas Day
Open: New Year’s Eve: 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Closed: New Year’s Day

* TEXAS TREASURES GIFT SHOP
214 N. Polk
Jefferson, TX
(903) 665-3757
Open: Christmas Eve: 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Closed: Christmas Day
Open: New Year’s Eve: 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Closed: New Year’s Day

* THE RIGHT FRAME OF MIND
Jefferson, TX
(903) 742-8095
Open: Christmas Eve: 9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.
Closed: Christmas Day through January 15, 2012

* UNIQUE MYSTIQUE
120 W. Lafayette
(903) 665-3382
Open: Christmas Eve: 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
Closed: Christmas Day
Open: New Year’s Eve: 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.
CLOSED: New Year’s Day

* V-MART
505 W. Broadway
Jefferson, TX
(903) 665-2831
Open: Christmas Eve: 6:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.
Closed: Christmas Day
Open: New Year’s Eve: 6:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m. ???
New Year’s Day:

* YESTERYEAR GIFTS & CLASSY GLITZ BOUTIQUE
102 S. Polk
Jefferson, TX
(903) 665-8692
Open: Christmas Eve: 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
Closed: Christmas Day
Open: New Year’s Eve: 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
Closed: New Year’s Day

ATTRACTIONS
HOLIDAY HOURS OF OPERATION

* HISTORIC JEFFERSON RAILWAY
400 E. Austin St.
Jefferson, TX
(866) 398-2038
Open: Christmas Eve: 6:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m.
Closed: Christmas Day
Open: New Year’s Eve: 8:30 p.m., 9:30 p.m., 11:30 p.m.
Closed: New Year’s Day

* JEFFERSON CARNEGIE LIBRARY
301 W. Lafayette
Jefferson, TX
(903) 665-8911
Open: Christmas Eve: 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
Closed: Christmas Day
Open: New Year’s Eve: 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
Closed: New Year’s Day

* JEFFERSON HISTORICAL MUSEUM
223 Austin
Jefferson, TX
(903) 665-2775
Closed: Christmas Eve & Day
Open: New Year’s Eve 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Closed: New Year’s Day

* Lafayette Street Vintage Car Museum
112 W. Lafayette St.
Jefferson, TX
(903) 240-6180
Open: Christmas Eve: 11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Closed: Christmas Day
Open: New Year’s Eve: 11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Closed: New Year’s Day

Tags: Carriage House Bed & Breakfast, Christmas, Historic Jefferson Railway, Hotels, Jefferson Texas, Restaurant, Romantic Getaway, Vacation, Weekend Getaway
Posted in Bed and Breakfast, Caddo Lake, Candlelight Tour of Homes, carriage rides, Christmas in Jefferson, Ghost Tours, Graceful Ghost, Historic Jefferson Museum, Historic Jefferson Railway, Holiday Trail of Lights, Jay Gould, Jefferson Salutes America, Jefferson Texas, Marshall, New Year, New Years Eve Train, Rail of Lights, Specials and Promotions, The Carriage House Bed and Breakfast, The Ghost Train, The Grove, Winery | Comments Off

Christmas Weekend Entertainment for Jefferson Texas

December 21st, 2011 by carriagehouse

JEFFERSON, TEXAS

WEEKEND ENTERTAINMENT

DECEMBER 22-25, 2011

* AUNTIE SKINNER’S RIVERBOAT CLUB & RESTAURANT
Thursday, December 22 “Terry Dorgan” (Country Ballads) @ 6:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m.
Friday, December 23: Karaoke @ 8:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m.
Saturday, December 24: NO BAND
(903) 665-7121

* KARAOKE
Saturday, December 24 @ 8:00 p.m.-12:00 midnight
Location: The Sandwich Shop, 123 W. Austin
(903) 601-2211

* HISTORIC JEFFERSON RAILWAY
Rail of Lights Christmas Train
Thursday, December22 @ 6:00 p.m.
Friday, December 23 @ 6:00 p.m., 7:00 p.m., 8:00 p.m.
Saturday, December 24 @ 6:00 p.m., 7:00 p.m.,
Sunday, December 25: Closed
Tickets & information: (903) 665-6400 or (866) 398-2038
www.JeffersonRailway.com or www.railoflights.com

* LONE STAR CARRIAGE COMPANY OF JEFFERSON
Historical tours of Jefferson by horse & carriage and Mule Drawn Wagon
Specializing in weddings
Monday-Friday, December 19-23
Groups and special events available by appointment
Departs from corner of Austin & Market (across from the Jefferson Historical
Museum)
(903) 926-8216
www.jeffersontexascarriage.com
Call for reservations

* JEFFERSON PEDAL POWER
122 E. Austin
Bicycles, Trikes, Tandems, Surreys & more
By reservation
(903) 926-5167
www.JeffersonPedalPower.com

* HISTORIC JEFFERSON GHOSTWALK
Friday, December 23 @ 8:00 p.m.
Location: Corner of Austin & Vale St.
Information & additional tours: (903) 665-6289
www.jeffersonghostwalk.com

* LAFAYETTE STREET VINTAGE VEHICLES CAR MUSEUM
112 W. Lafayette
Friday & Saturday, December 23-24 @ 11:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m.
(903) 240-6180
Call for additional tours

* CULBERSON HOUSE HISTORIC HOME TOUR
403 N. Walnut
(903) 665-7888
www.culbersonhousebandb.com
By appointment. Call for tour dates & time

* HOUSE OF THE SEASONS HISTORIC HOME TOUR
409 S. Alley
Daily @ 11:00 a.m.
(903) 665-8000
Reservations required
www.houseoftheseasons.com

* SINGLETON’S VIRGINIA CROSS HISTORIC HOME TOUR
401 Soda St.
No tour Saturday, December 24
(903) 665-3938 or (214) 725-6232
Call for reservations & additional tour dates and times

* THE GROVE HAUNTED HISTORIC HOME TOUR
405 Moseley
Closed through January 7, 2012
(903) 665-8018
www.thegrove-jefferson.com
Call to confirm tour

* EXCELSIOR HOUSE HOTEL & JAY GOULD RAILCAR TOUR
211 W. Austin
Tours: Monday-Friday @ 2:00 p.m.
Saturday & Sunday @ 1:00 p.m. & 2:00 p.m.
(903) 665-2513
Call to confirm tour times
www.theexcelsiorhouse.com

* JEFFERSON HISTORICAL MUSEUM
223 W. Austin
Open daily: 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
CLOSED: Christmas Eve & Christmas Day
www.jeffersonmuseum.com

* THE GRACEFUL GHOST PADDLEWHEEL STEAMBOAT ON CADDO LAKE
Pontoon Boat tours @ Tuesday-Friday @ 12:00 noon, 2:00 p.m., 4:00 p.m.
Saturday @ 10:00 a.m., 12:00 noon, 2:00 p.m., 4:00 p.m.
Sunday & Monday: Closed
Graceful Ghost Paddlewheel Steamboat CLOSED during Winter Season
Location: Shady Glade Marina, 510 Cypress Drive, Uncertain, TX
(903) 789-2238
www.gracefulghost.com
Call for reservations & additional tours

* BILLY CARTER’S GO-DEVIL TOURS ON CADDO LAKE
Location: Johnson’s Ranch in Uncertain, TX
(903) 789-3213
Call for reservations
www.caddoguideservice.com

* CADDO OUTBACK BACKWATER TOURS
Personalized Tours of Caddo Lake
Uncertain, TX
(903) 789-3384
Call for reservations
www.caddooutback.com

* CAPTAIN RON’S GATOR PARK, PETTING ZOO & GARDEN
FM Rd #2198
Uncertain, TX
(903) 789-2100
Open: Tuesday-Saturday @ 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

* JEFFERSON CARNEGIE LIBRARY
301 W. Lafayette
Monday-Thursday @ 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.
Friday @ 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Saturday @ 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
Closed: Sunday
(903) 665-8911
www.jeffersoncarnegielibrary.com
Free internet access

* TURNING BASIN RIVERBOAT TOURS
200 Bayou St.
CLOSED until further notice due to low water levels
(903) 665-2222
www.jeffersonbayoutours.com

* CADDO LAKE PADDLEWHEEL TOURS “THE SWAMP THING”
Uncertain, TX
(888) 325-5459 or (903) 789-2101
CLOSED through February 29, 2012
www.caddolakepaddlewheeltours.com

Tags: Caddo Lake, Carriage House Bed & Breakfast, Christmas, Historic Jefferson Railway, History, Hotels, Jefferson Texas, Restaurant, Romantic Getaway, Vacation, Weekend Getaway
Posted in Auntie Skinners, Bed and Breakfast, Caddo Lake, Candlelight Tour of Homes, carriage rides, Christmas in Jefferson, Dining, Ghost Tours, Graceful Ghost, Historic Jefferson Museum, Historic Jefferson Railway, Holiday Trail of Lights, Jay Gould, Jefferson Texas, lake o the pines, lodging, New Years Eve Train, Rail of Lights, Specials and Promotions, The Carriage House Bed and Breakfast, The Ghost Train | Comments Off

Rail of Lights Christmas and New Year’s Train Day Trips in Jefferson, Texas

November 25th, 2011 by carriagehouse

Take to the Rails during the Daylight

Rail of Lights Christmas & New Year’s Train – Jefferson, Texas

In addition to the traditional evening trains, Historic Jefferson Railway has added a few day runs so that patrons can experience the beautiful ride along the Cypress Bayou River.

Day runs will be available on December 9, 12, 13 and 14 at 1:30 p.m. No reservations necessary – there will be plenty of room available.

Tickets are now on sale for the evening trains. As seating is limited, get your tickets early. Make this a holiday to remember aboard the Rail of Lights Christmas Train in Jefferson, Texas. The unforgettable ride aboard an old-fashioned steam train departs each Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Thanksgiving through December 24. Passengers will enjoy lighted scenes along the Cypress Bayou River as they hear about “Christmas Traditions Around the Globe”.

Also, ring in the New Year with the Rail of Lights New Year’s Train running on December 30 and 31st. This ride will feature the dropping of the ball in Times Square, complete with beverages, noisemakers and a fantastic fire works show on every train ride.

Spend the weekend in Jefferson and stay in the Cypress Bayou RV Park, just one mile from Jefferson. You can see lights on the river during the Christmas Trains and watch the New Year’s fireworks as the train comes through the park. Ask about our special holiday get-away pricing of $15 per night.

The excursions will take you by a life-size nativity scene, the German Markets, Jerusalem and the Angel Tree. Glimpse Christmas trees simply decorated reminiscent of the bare-limbed sourwood of the Appalachian Christmas Tree. View scenes representing Toyland, Alaska, San Francisco, China, Australia, New Orleans, and the Arizona Hopi Indian nation.

Enjoy an authentic life-sized 90-year old Christmas card as well as the Support Our Troops display featuring a post card sent by soldiers during World War II, and other favorites: the aluminum tree, reminiscent of the 1960’s; a whimsical Teddy Bear tree; and Charlie Brown’s forlorn little Christmas tree.

The decorated historic railroad depot captures the holiday spirit. The narrated tour on the day train will be a combination of Jefferson history and description of our Christmas scenes.

During the evening, visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus before boarding the train for the wonderful narrated tour, accompanied by a local vocalist, who will give patrons an opportunity to sing some of their favorite Christmas Carols as they create unique Christmas memories riding along the river.

Ticket Prices: Day train First Class $16.50; Coach Class $13.00. Evening Trains: First Class $21; Coach Class: $14.75 – $16.50. Lap children under 4 are free.

First Class is offered in a beautiful historic, heated, enclosed coach. If you are riding Coach Class, be sure to dress warmly and bring a blanket, as you will be riding in open cars. Seating is limited on the evening trains so purchase your tickets early. The easiest way to get tickets is to order online at www.RailofLights.com.

Jefferson is nestled deep in the Piney Woods of East Texas. It seems frozen in time and is an elegant reminder of a bygone era. The downtown area will be aglow with lights and greenery during the holiday season. You will want to make Jefferson and the Christmas Train a tradition for your whole family.

Tags: Carriage House B&B, Christmas, Historic Jefferson Railway, Hotels, Jefferson Texas, Romantic Getaway, Vacation, Weekend Getaway
Posted in Candlelight Tour of Homes, Christmas in Jefferson, Historic Jefferson Railway, Holiday Trail of Lights, Jefferson Texas, New Years Eve Train, Rail of Lights, Specials and Promotions, The Carriage House Bed and Breakfast | Comments Off

Christmas Rail of Light Tickets Now on Sale

September 17th, 2011 by carriagehouse

Celebrate Christmas Traditions Around the Globe

Rail of Lights Christmas & New Year’s Train – Jefferson, Texas

Tickets are now on sale for Rail of Lights Christmas and New Year’s Train. Make this a Christmas to remember aboard the Rail of Lights Christmas Train in Jefferson, Texas. The unforgettable ride aboard an old-fashioned steam train departs each Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Thanksgiving through December 24. Passengers will enjoy lighted scenes along the Cypress Bayou River as they hear about “Christmas Traditions Around the Globe”.

The excursions will take you by a life-size nativity scene, the German Markets, Jerusalem and the Angel Tree. Glimpse Christmas trees simply decorated reminiscent of the bare-limbed sourwood of the Appalachian Christmas Tree to the opulence of a re-created 1885 Christmas tree in the Smith-McDowell House in Asheville, North Carolina. View scenes representing Alaska, San Francisco, Australia and the Arizona Hopi Indian nation.

Enjoy an authentic life-sized 90-year old Christmas card as well as the post card sent by soldiers during World War II and other favorites: the aluminum tree, reminiscent of the 1960’s; a whimsical Teddy Bear tree; and Charlie Brown’s forlorn little Christmas tree.

The decorated historic railroad depot, complete with Santa Claus, captures the holiday spirit. The wonderful narrated tour, accompanied by a local vocalist, will also give patrons an opportunity to sing some of their favorite Christmas Carols as they create unique Christmas memories riding along the river.

Ticket Prices: First Class $21; Coach Class: $14.75 – $16.50. Lap children unde

r 4 are free. First Class is offered in a beautiful historic, heated, enclosed coach. If you are riding Coach Class, be sure to dress warmly and bring a blanket, as you will be riding in open cars. Seating is limited so purchase your tickets early. The easiest way to get tickets is to order online at www.RailofLights.com.

Tags: Carriage House Bed & Breakfast, Christmas, Historic Jefferson Railway, Jefferson Texas, Rail of Lights, Romantic Getaway
Posted in Bed and Breakfast, Candlelight Tour of Homes, Christmas in Jefferson, Historic Jefferson Railway, Holiday Trail of Lights, New Years Eve Train, Rail of Lights, Runaway Fright Train, The Carriage House Bed and Breakfast, The Ghost Train | Comments Off

Celebrate Flag Day Aboard Jefferons’ Historic Railway

June 1st, 2011 by carriagehouse

Photo by Sam Wilson

In celebration of Flag Day, the anniversary of the Flag Resolution of 1777 and inspired by three decades of state and local celebrations, The Historic Jefferson Railway will offer a special Flag Day Weekend, June 10 and 11, 2011. Every rider will receive a free Flag Day gift and active Military Personnel can ride free.

Looking for a place close to town to camp or bring your RV? Come stay at the Cypress Bayou RV Park, just one mile from Jefferson, adjacent to the Cypress Bayou River. The park offers secluded tent camping and RV sites with water and electric surrounded by beautiful wooded acreage. Observe the abundant wildlife and enjoy great fishing and boating, as well as hiking and mountain biking on groomed trails.

We will have a celebration of flags at the historic train depot and along the track as the history of Flag Day unfolds in our narrated day tours. Come see the “Support Our Troops” display that honors the United States Military.

Climb aboard as the Railway recreates the Golden Era of steam railroading. With whistles blowing and pistons chugging, the live steam, narrow gauge railroad transports its passengers back to the 1800’s on a scenic narrated tour along the Big Cypress Bayou, rolling through the history laden Piney Woods.

You can view a Confederate Powder Magazine along the five-mile tour as well as the historical ruins of the Clark and Boice Sawmill and the first iron foundry in East Texas.

Start Friday and Saturday evenings at 8:00 with free Ghost Stories at the historic “haunted” train depot. The story-teller will keep you at the edge of your seat as you hear stories about famous and not-so-famous Ghosts of Jefferson and Northeast Texas.

Then climb aboard the legendary Ghost Train at 9:00. The Ghost Train carries you deep into the dark woods along the Bayou. The narrator shares legends of Jefferson and East Texas ghosts and a story or two that will make you reach for your loved ones! Historic Jefferson Railway was nominated as one of the Best Excursion Railroad Theme Trains for its Ghost Train by the readers of Cowcatcher magazine for the First Annual 2009 Gold Rail Awards.

The Railway has become a part of the thriving community of Jefferson sponsoring major events throughout the year that bring over 20,000 visitors to Jefferson. Riders look forward all year to Terror on the Bayou Fright Train, Rail of Lights Christmas & New Year’s Train as well as Diamond Don’s Riverport National Vintage Motocross and the Trammel’s Trace Rendezvous.

The train was built in 1964 for Six Guns Territory in Florida and moved to Jefferson in 1986. It is a Crown Metals reproduction of the 1870’s American class 4-4-0 steam locomotive christened the Robert E. Lee and known as Engine #7. The open car coach seats still carry the custom medallions cast into them designed especially for the Six Guns amusement park.

Historic Jefferson Railway is located at 400 E. Austin in Downtown Jefferson, Texas. For information on pricing, schedule and events, please visit http://www.jeffersonrailway.com/or call 866-398-2038.

Open air coach $12, plus tax
Children under 6 FREE
Active Military ride free during Flag Day Weekend
10% discount to Seniors

Come join us for Ghost Stories at the depot.
And IT’S FREE!

Friday
Depot opens at 6:00
FREE Ghost Stories at 8:00
Ghost Train departs at 9:00

Saturday
Depot opens at noon
Narrated Day Train departs at 2:30 and 4:30
FREE Ghost Stories at 8:00
Ghost Train departs at 9:00

Tags: Carriage House B&B, Historic Jefferson Railway, History, Hotels, Jefferson Texas
Posted in Historic Jefferson Railway, Jefferson Texas, Rail of Lights, Runaway Fright Train, The Carriage House Bed and Breakfast, The Ghost Train | Comments Off

Christmas in Jefferson, Texas

November 26th, 2010 by carriagehouse

A Victorian Santa

It is hard for me to believe this but it is already Christmas. Today is Black Friday and the malls and stores are jam packed with people. Cars are circling over-filled parking lots and there are long lines at the cash register. It hardly feels like Christmas, more like an over-hyped department store sale. The non stop commercials and advertisements will make even the most cheerful person say Bah Humbug.

If you need a break from all of this craziness, come on down to Jefferson for an old fashioned Victorian Christmas.

There is no place more magical than Jefferson at Christmas. The beautiful historic homes twinkle with brightly colored Christmas lights and the town is festively adorned with Christmas trimming. The churches are filled with Christmas carolers and the parks transform into enchanted forests of decorated Christmas trees. The very air you breathe will fill you with the Christmas Spirit.

December 2nd – 4th and December 9th – 11th, the Candlelight Tour of Homes will offer visitors to the picturesque little town the chance to walk through four of the most beautiful homes in Jefferson. Each one of these homes will be dressed in live greenery, glowing candles, and unique Christmas decorations. Docents dressed in Victorian period dress will guide visitors through these houses by candlelight and share the storied histories of these amazing homes.

The famous Christmas Rail of Lights will be steaming its way through Jefferson during the Christmas Season. The narrow gauge locomotive will take you through scenes from the “History of the Christmas Tree” as it chugs along the banks of the Big Cypress Bayou. Have your heart warmed by 25 different Christmas scenes built into the forest landscape.

The First Methodist Church will be sponsoring this year’s Christmas Music Concert Series each night of the Candlelight Tour of Homes. Sounds of the season resonate throughout Jefferson as these musical concerts perform. Choral groups, hand bells, and chimes delight all ages. The concerts are free to the public.

Lions Park will be transformed from a traditional city park to an Enchanted Forest of Christmas Trees. Each Christmas Tree will be decorated by a local business, church, school class or civic group. Be enchanted as you walk through a sparkling, wonderland of Christmas trees.

There are special festivities at the Carriage House as well.

This historic home is beautifully decorated for the season. Sit in our parlor and enjoy the fireplace while sitting by the Christmas Tree. Join us each afternoon as we share a traditional Norwegian Christmas treat of Glogg and Peppercaker.

Candlelight in Jefferson is so special that all lodging fills and avalailable rooms become impossible to find. We only have a few rooms left, so please call us at 903-665-9511 to make your reservation today.

Posted in Candlelight Tour of Homes, Christmas in Jefferson, New Years Eve Train, Rail of Lights | Comments Off

The Perfect Gift

November 27th, 2009 by Skyla Grimes

It is Black Friday today and do you know what you are going to get everyone on your list? There is always that one person that is impossible to buy for. That one person that seems to have everything. You rack your brain and are simply stumped! What do they want? What can you get them?

How about a Carriage House Bed and Breakfast Gift Certificate? Everyone appreciates the gift of relaxation.

You can buy gift certificates for one night, two nights or as many nights as you would like. Simply call us and we can help you decide the type of gift certificate that you need. We can take your order over the phone and mail you the gift certificate or email it to you if you would like to print it out yourself.

A Carriage House Bed and Breakfast Gift Certificate is perfect for a special teacher, your pastor or best friend. So give them the gift they really want, give them the gift of relaxation and pampering.

Posted in Gift Certificates, Rail of Lights | Comments Off