It’s almost time, Lufkin!
Here’s your full event map and schedule for this year’s Lighting of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Pumping Unit, presented by Lufkin Industries.
Festivities begin at 5:00 PM on Friday, December 5, with milk & cookies, pictures with Santa, and performances by Susan’s Studio of Dance and the Huntington High Steppers.
Every year as the holiday season begins, Lufkin, Texas gathers to celebrate one unmistakable signal that Christmas has officially arrived the lighting of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Pumping Unit. Standing 45 feet tall, illuminated from antlers to hooves, this fully-functioning Lufkin pumpjack has been a symbol of community, industry, and holiday spirit for more than half a century. When Rudolf lights up, the entire town lights up with it.
Tonight, we proudly continue a 60-plus-year tradition — and this year, we’re adding something special.
A Holiday Icon Like No Other
Rudolph isn’t just decoration.
He’s a piece of Lufkin history.
A working oilfield unit transformed and re-imagined as a festive reindeer, Rudolph bridges the heritage of East Texas oilfield innovation with the magic of the season. For generations, families have gathered downtown to hear the countdown, watch the lights spark to life, and welcome Christmas together.
Music fills the square.
Children stare wide-eyed.
And year after year — Rudolph shines.
NEW FOR 2025 — The Rudolph Pumping Unit Art Contest
This year, we invited Lufkin ISD students to capture the magic of Rudolph through their own imagination and creativity. Hundreds of submissions were received from schools across the region, and the judging was both humbling and inspiring.
We are excited to introduce our 2025 Art Contest winners:
Child Division: 5 – 8 years old – Isaac Barber
Junior Division: 9-12 Years old – Journey Hamilton
Senior Division: 13 – 18 Years old – Chloe Ramirez
