MARSHALL, Texas (KTAL/KMSS) — The Wonderland of Lights, one of the premier Christmas events in the area and in the state of Texas, kicks off on November 26 with the opening ceremony at 5:45 p.m.

Wonderland features an ice skating rink, carriage rides, wagon rides, a carousel, and an acclaimed Christmas light display, with the historic Harrison County Courthouse serving as its centerpiece.

In 1987, Marshall was experiencing economic difficulties, with an unemployment rate near 20%. While walking downtown, Marshall News Messenger Editor George S. Smith envisioned lights strung on the historic courthouse.

He returned to work and penned a description of his vision for the city, explaining that it could rival any Christmas lighting scene in the area.

Months later, a Marshall native in Franc

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