Welcome!

Welcome to our weekly email newsletter, “VA Insider”. Please share with your friends so we can keep as many people as possible informed on what is happening in and around Van Alstyne! Every back issue plus the form to sign up are on our website.

HOLIDAY DECORATING COMPETITION!

It’s that time of year, Van Alstyne! We’re excited to see the most festive and creative holiday decorations across our city.

Homes and businesses within Van Alstyne are invited to enter for a chance to win. Participation is FREE!

If you’d like to join the fun, please email khessel@cityofvanalstyne.us

with the following information:

Name / Business Name

Address (must be located in Van Alstyne)

Phone Number

Category: Residential or Business

One photo of your decorated home or business (this will be posted online for voting)

Nominations must be submitted by Thursday, December 18, 2025!

Once submissions are collected, they will be posted online and the community will have 72 hours to vote for their favorite.

Winners will be announced Monday, December 22!

The top decorator will receive:

A special yard sign announcing your win

A $50 gift card

And of course… bragging rights

Help spread the word, Van Alstyne—let’s light up the city with holiday cheer!

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS:

Texas Bank of Van Alstyne

David Rodriguez State Farm Insurance

Randolph Brooks Federal Credit Union

Christmas Market Tomorrow!

Get ready for a festive evening in historic downtown Van Alstyne, all lit up and sparkling around the big Christmas tree!

Holiday Shopping & Local Vendors – Find one-of-a-kind gifts and seasonal treasures
Hot Beverages & Sweet Treats – Cozy up with warm drinks and tasty goodies
Make-Your-Own Ornaments & Christmas Coloring Tablecloth – Fun for kids and adults alike
Festive Music & Holiday Cheer – Enjoy the sounds of the season
Family Fun & Community Spirit – Celebrate with your neighbors and friends

Railcar Christmas market
Central Social District
263 N Main Dr, Van Alstyne
Tuesday, December 16th | 3–7 PM
‌
Don’t miss this magical evening of Christmas fun!

Rec Center Hours for Christmas Break

Christmas Break Hours for the Rec Center

Monday 12/22-12-9p

Tuesday 12/23 12-9p

Wednesday 12/24 Closed-Christmas Eve

Thursday 12/25 Closed Christmas Day

Friday 12/26 12-9p

Saturday 12/27 12-6p

Sunday 12/28-Closed

Monday 12/29 12-9p

Tuesday 12/30 12-9p

Wednesday 12/31 12-6p

Thursday 01/01/26 CLOSED- NEW YEAR

Friday 01/02/2026 12-9p

Saturday 01/03/26 12-6p

Trout Season in Van Alstyne!

Texas Parks and Wildlife dropped off a couple thousand trout to VA Thursday. Catch 'em while you can!

Holly Jolly Thursday!

Holly Jolly Thursday last week with Frosty the Snowman. Rumor has it that this week we may have Frosty, The Grinch, AND Santa! See you at Historic Downtown Van Alstyne, Thursday night starting at 5:00pm.

Holiday Hangout 2025

This years Holiday Hangout was a blast! It’s Christmastime in VA!

No Phishing Allowed!

at the Senior Center

Apple held a class on scam and phishing prevention at the City of Van Alstyne Senior Center. Judge Christina Fox also lended her legal expertise to the class. There's always something fun and/or informative happening at the Senior Center!

Library Renovation Update

Week 4

Our Library Director, Judy Kimzey, gives us a week 4 update on the renovations happening at the Van Alstyne Public Library.

Construction Updates

Sign up for updates to construction and other projects going on around town. Just hit the button and choose the project, or projects, you are interested in!

Historical Museum

ONE WEEKEND LEFT!

Come out for an extra special experience with Santa this Saturday at the Van Alstyne Historical Museum.

Tickets: $30

The Van Alstyne Chamber of Commerce News

What to Expect at the Chamber Breakfast
Breakfast starts at 8:30 AM — come a little early to grab coffee and network!
Quick intros from each business
15 min. Sponsor Spotlight from Brandon Hudgens, owner or The Bowen Event Venue.
Chamber updates on events & initiatives
Open floor for business announcements
It’s a great chance to connect, share, and grow your network. See you there!

From the Senior Center, to the Library, Parks and Rec and more… there is always something going on in VA! Check out the calendar for more…