In 2018, Corpus Christi gave itself a Christmas present: a new 66-foot-tall Christmas tree with 2,000 ornaments and 7,000 lights. Although the Harbor Lights Festival centered around the tree was cancelled this year, Merry Days by the Bay is a go with new safety protocols. Photo by Carrie Robertson Meyer/Third Coast Photo
Corpus Christi’s Merry Days by the Bay has filled the month of December with safe holiday events of virtual holiday greetings, twinkling lights, festive holiday tours, and more. Here’s a list of activities to put on your digital calendar for the rest of this month.
VIRTUAL HOLIDAY GREETINGS
For those wanting a way to celebrate virtually, access free downloadable Corpus Christi holiday e-postcards, plus Zoom backgrounds and more, designed by the Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi graphic design department.
ENJOY CORPUS CHRISTI TOURS
Sign up for the Holiday Lights Tour, a private tour that accommodates up to 13 people. Hosts Susan and Rene Trevino entertain guests during a two-hour drive through the many holiday lights displays in the area. Departs at 6:15 p.m. daily from Dec. 11-23.
Enjoy Corpus Christi Tours also has a seasonal ghost tour. Guests practice singing carols live on stage at a historic downtown theater followed by exploring a haunted, downtown apartment building while performing their songs.
On Dec. 14 and 21, enjoy warm wassail while exploring five historical cemeteries in Corpus Christi during the Cemetery Tour with Wassail.
All tours require reservations and will fill up quickly! Visit the website for more on Enjoy Corpus Christi Tours.
HOLIDAY EVENTS
Friday-Saturday, Dec. 18-19
Holly-Days
South Texas Botanical Gardens & Nature Center
8545 S. Staples St. in Corpus Christi
Dec. 18 and 19 are the last two days for Holly-Days. Take selfies at the giant lighted Frazier fir or with parrots, iguanas, and tortoises (contingent on weather). Event also includes holiday crafts and storytelling for children and music and carols while walking through the gardens. Special activities with Santa for an added fee.
9-10 a.m.
Tuesdays, Dec. 22 and 29
December Guided Nature Walks
Oso Bay Wetlands Preserve and Learning Center
2446 N. Oso Parkway in Corpus Christi
Walk off those winter holiday calories while enjoying the scenery on a free Guided Nature Walk each Tuesday morning from 9-10am. A great activity for families with different topics for each week, including Home for the Holidays on Dec. 22 and the Winter Scavenger Hunt on Dec. 29. Walks are limited to 10 participants. Online registration required.
7-9 p.m.
Tuesday, Dec. 22
Christmas Concert Drive-in
Texas State Museum of Asian Cultures
1809 N. Chaparral St. in Corpus Christi
Drive-in Christmas concert by Wings Over Society to be held in the front parking lot of the museum. Cost is $10 per car. Lawn chairs and blankets will be permitted. Social distancing protocols will be in effect. Museum is open 4-8 p.m.
5-8 p.m.
Wednesday, Dec. 23
Grow Local Holiday Market
Art Center of Corpus Christi
100 N. Shoreline Blvd
Find fresh seasonal produce, local proteins, homemade treats, and handmade holiday gifts during Grow Local South Texas Annual holiday market. The Corpus Christi Downtown Farmers' Market will be open rain or shine. All items are handmade locally. Over 50 vendors, local artists, and creatives are making unique holiday products for you and your loved ones. All produce is made or grown within 200 miles. Precautions are being taken for the health and safety of the community, vendors, staff, and customers. All attendees must wear a face covering in public spaces. Social distancing marks have been made on the ground to help customers stay 6 feet apart. Hand-washing stations available for all customers and vendor booths.
Merry Days by the Bay is a collaboration of VisitCorpusChristi.org, the city of Corpus Christi, and the Downtown Management District.
