Glen Rose Mayor Showcases Town's Christmas Traditions and Regional Appeal on Building Texas Show

The Building Texas Show has released Episode 101 featuring Glen Rose Mayor Joe Boles discussing the town's community spirit, growing regional appeal, and deep-rooted Christmas traditions. The episode provides insight into how this small Texas town is positioning itself as a destination while preserving its authentic character and holiday celebrations.

Located just over an hour southwest of Dallas-Fort Worth, Glen Rose offers visitors a unique blend of Texas heritage and small-town warmth. Mayor Boles shared what first drew him to Glen Rose, the town's welcoming attitude, and how it has grown as a regional getaway. "Glen Rose can't be done in one day," said Mayor Boles. "Come for the Christmas parade. Stay the night. Enjoy the dinosaur tracks the next morning. There is something here for everyone."

A central theme of the episode is Glen Rose's dedication to preserving an authentic Christmas experience. Mayor Boles detailed the town's efforts featuring new decorations, a handcrafted nativity scene on the courthouse lawn, volunteer church choirs, and return appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus. The highlight is the Glen Rose Christmas Parade on November 29, with festivities beginning at 3 p.m., the parade rolling at 5:30 p.m., followed by a tree lighting, hot chocolate, children's activities, a walk-through snow globe, and a train circling the courthouse square.

Beyond the Christmas festivities, Glen Rose offers a variety of attractions that contribute to its regional appeal. These include Dinosaur Valley State Park, home to the longest visible dinosaur tracks in the U.S., and Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, a renowned drive-through animal preserve. The town also features historic downtown shops and museums, lodging options including cozy bed and breakfasts and resorts like Rough Creek Lodge and La Familia Resort, plus family-friendly dining, shopping, and walkable experiences.

Episode 101 of The Building Texas Show is available now on YouTube, podcast platforms and at buildingtexasshow.com. Mayor Boles concluded the episode with a warm invitation: "Come to Glen Rose. See what we have. Enjoy the time. And have a very Merry Christmas with us."

The episode's significance extends beyond entertainment, serving as a case study in how small towns can leverage their unique assets to drive tourism and economic development. Glen Rose's approach demonstrates how communities can balance growth with preservation of local character, offering lessons for other municipalities seeking sustainable development. The timing during the holiday season also highlights the economic importance of seasonal tourism for small towns, where events like the Christmas parade can significantly impact local businesses and community engagement.