Pleasantly freezing weather, toasty warm sweaters, steaming hot cocoa, and gorgeously decorated pine trees...these things are what a lot of people think of when they think about the holiday season. Here in Texas, we do holidays a little different. Sure, you'll still hear the same familiar Christmas melodies played in department stores, but in these winter months, warm outdoor barbecues are just as common as days spent curled up under a blanket with coffee and a good book. You never know what you'll get in Texas, so we want you to be prepared for everything.

A great way to get into the holiday spirit is to seek out a good celebration near you on our Texas Festivals & Events page The Blanco County Courthouse, located in Johnson City, always decorates fabulously, so stop by and take look there if you get the chance. If you're in Canton, swing by the Plaza Theaters for a fantastic Winter Wonderland. Those in Austin can check out the Christmas Affair, where merchants get together to sell their wonderful products. For more ideas on fun holiday themed events, check your local newspaper or some online Texas resources!

Now, you might be worrying over finding the perfect gift for a friend or loved one. We want to take the stress out of holiday shopping by providing lots of options for you.

Teenagers are always hard to shop for because their interests change like the seasons. If you're shopping for a teenage girl, go for something classic that she will love without a doubt. Girls will love a gorgeous bracelet or pair of earrings from one of our jewelers. Lone Star Jewelry offers beautifully hand-crafted pearl cameo earrings in gold or silver. For a girl with a flair for writing, consider picking out a lovely made, exquisitely made pen from The Texas Penwright. A teen girl will appreciate a simple, thoughtful gift, like a charm from K&M Custom Jewelry.

If money is your concern, don't fret. Truly Texan merchants offer lots of great gifts under $50. For a mother or a wife, consider a lovely double heart pendant from Not So Plain Jane. The women in your life will love a beautiful symbol of your love and appreciation. For your friends who aren't afraid of a challenge in the kitchen, get them a Texas Pepper Jelly sampler. It's got gourmet jellies hot as the Texas summer sun, and it comes in a great star shaped package.

We all know those people who just have everything. If you're stumped every year about what to get that one person, think about how much they would love a one-of-a-kind piece. Lots of our artisans specialize in custom works. Todd Sanders at Roadhouse Relics can do anything with neon; you're guaranteed to please whoever you're buying for if you get custom neon decor from Todd.

Hopefully this has given you some ideas on finding the right gift for those special people in your life around the holidays. There's nothing quite like a Texas Christmas, and these unique gifts reflect that. Happy holidays!