Gracie Vallejos
Holiday in the country
Monday night, the city of Troup gathered together for a merry and bright annual celebration. Creating relationships between neighbors, friends and local small businesses. At 6pm the star was lit on the large Christmas outside of Cameron-J Jarvis Troup Municipal Library. Many organizations did free drawings, giving away fun getaways, and gift baskets. Lots of local organizations and churches gave away free dinner plates, popcorn and desserts- spreading holiday cheer and showing off how neighborly Troup is.
Residents south of Tyler, Texas gathered Monday night for Troup’s annual Holiday in the Countrycelebration, a beloved hometown tradition that brings together neighbors, families and local businesses to kick off the Christmas season.
Festivities began at 4pm that evening and at 6 p.m. the star atop the large Christmas tree outside the Cameron-J. Jarvis Troup Municipal Library was lit, casting a bright glow in downtown; signaling the official start of the Christmas season in Troup.
The evening was filled with family-friendly booths and small businesses hosted by community organizations, clubs and churches. Many groups held free drawings, offering prizes such as gift baskets, and getaway packages. Children lined up excitedly for photos with Santa and the Snow Queen, while parents mingled with longtime friends and new acquaintances.
Several churches and local organizations set up tables offering complimentary dinner plates, popcorn, and homemade desserts. Volunteers served food with warm smiles, sharing in the spirit of giving that has long defined the small East Texas community.
Vendors and small businesses showcased festive decorations, handmade crafts and holiday treats, highlighting the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit that thrives in Troup.
Holiday in the Country is more than a celebration – it’s a reminder of the neighborly spirit that makes Troup feel like home. As Christmas decorations twinkled and families gathered to enjoy the final moments of the evening, the town once again proved that its biggest strength is its people.
