Festive events kicks off holiday season

Thanksgiving is one day away, and Christmas lights at the park and Bandera County Courthouse get flipped on this Friday, but before that, there’s plenty of food to be enjoyed. Here are some places offering just that.

Starting at noon and running until three on Thanksgiving, the Lakehills Community Center will be open for the tenth annual Community Thanksgiving Dinner, hosted by Hill Country Samaritans. All are welcome at this free event, which will include a full Thanksgiving meal with all the fixings. Dine in and limited take out options available.

Bricks River Cafe (reservations, limited seating) and Mendoza’s Mexican Grill will be open from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Twin Elm Guest Ranch opens at 12:30 with a meal at 6 p.m. Reservations only and limited seating apply.

Shogun Sports Bar and Grill will have a free potluck Thanksgiving meal from 2-7 p.m. Wildhorse Saloon will also be open with a potluck meal.

Lastly, TJ’s at the Old Forge will have a Thanks giving feast served from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Reservations are preferred.

Got some dancing shoes that need love? Head to 11th Street Cowboy Bar on Saturday for their Thanksgiving Weekend Dance featuring Justin Trevino and Heather Miles. The event has a $15 cover and begins at 8:30 p.m.

Before you head to the park to enjoy the Christmas displays, check out the Esther Benedict Gallery Christmas show at 160 Diamond J Rd in Pipe Creek. Many new sculptures, wall pieces and other pieces of art will be on display at the event, which will feature coffee, hot chocolate, wine and goodies in addition to the art from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more events throughout the holiday season, visit banderacowboycapital.com.