Good morning, Justin!

Thanksgiving is Almost Here… and Christmas is Peeking Around the Corner!
Can you smell the pumpkin pie yet? Thanksgiving lands on the 27th, and this week is all about prepping for the feast, cozy vibes, and maybe sneaking in a little early holiday fun. Local spots are already sprinkling a touch of Christmas magic, so it’s the perfect time to start thinking about twinkling lights, festive tunes, and holiday cheer. After all, they say Thanksgiving is a day… but Christmas is a season!

THE DIGEST

Thanksgiving Is Almost Here — Are Your Plans Set?
With Thursday, November 27th quickly approaching, now’s the perfect time to double-check your holiday plans. Many local stores and restaurants will be closed for the day so families can celebrate, so be sure to plan ahead — whether that means grabbing those last-minute groceries, confirming your dinner reservations, or preparing to host at home.

Let the countdown to a cozy, grateful Thanksgiving begin!

Turkey Trots: November 27, 2025

If you’re looking to run (or stroll) off a few pre-Thanksgiving calories, November is full of local Turkey Trots ready to welcome you. Here are a few fun runs in our area worth signing up for before spots fill up!

Get ready to lace up those running shoes and enjoy some festive fun!

Community Thanksgiving & Food Support Roundup

As we step into the season of gratitude, here are several local and regional resources offering Thanksgiving meals, food support, and holiday assistance. Feel free to share this list with anyone who might benefit, and email us if we miss any at [email protected].

  • Mr. Chopsticks – Denton

    On November 27 & 28, Mr. Chopsticks will provide a warm meal to anyone who needs one — no reservations required. Just swing through the drive-thru from 12:00 – 2:00 p.m.

  • Their annual turkey giveaway takes place November 22 at 12:00 p.m. Bring a photo ID with your Denton County address. Distribution is first-come, first-served and includes turkeys plus fixings.

  • Food Pantry Tuesdays, 11:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. & 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.

    Free Lunch Kitchen: Wednesdays, 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

  • Justin Community Food Pantry – Justin

    Accepting donations and offering support for residents in Justin and surrounding communities. Located at 405 W 3rd Street, Justin, TX 76247. Open Tuesdays, 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. Drop off non-perishable food items during operating hours.

  • Thanksgiving distribution for families in need on November 22, 2025 at University of North Texas at Dallas from 9AM until supplies last.

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Holidays

Justin Old Town Christmas 2024

Coming Wednesday: Our Special Holiday Edition!

Get ready! Our Holiday Edition Newsletter lands in your inbox Wednesday morning, and it’s packed — and we mean packed — with all things festive happening in and around Justin. From dazzling light displays and hometown events to parades, markets, and family-friendly fun, this guide will help you plan every merry moment of the season.

And while you wait get started by booking your Santa photo slot:

Santa’s Coming to Town – Bass Pro Shops

Kick off the season with a festive family outing — Santa has officially arrived at Bass Pro Shops! Bring the kids for a cheerful photo op with the big guy himself. Time slots filly quickly so reserve early up to 7 days in advance. A 4×6 photo is included for free and additional packages are available.

LOCAL BUSINESS
Thanksgiving Meals, Preorders & Where to Eat Near Justin, TX

As the holiday rush begins, our local businesses and nearby favorites are stepping up with everything from take-home feasts to full dine-in Thanksgiving meals. Whether you’re planning to host, craving a no-stress holiday, or looking to support small businesses this season, here’s a curated list of places that can help make your Thanksgiving delicious, simple, and stress-free.

Local Justin Options

  • Lonesome Spur Café (Justin)
    Order your pies for Thanksgiving at the counter: Homemade pies $24, Cobblers $40, and Cakes $30. A local favorite offering comfort food and catering options. Call ahead to ask about Thanksgiving takeout plates or catering availability.

  • Mercantile 1887 (Justin)
    Perfect for holiday appetizers! Preorder charcuterie boards and specialty items to round out your Thanksgiving table.

Nearby Restaurants Offering Thanksgiving Meals

Grocery Store Holiday Meals

  • Tom Thumb
    Offers fully prepared turkeys, sides, desserts, party trays, and full holiday meal packages. Order online or in-store.

  • Kroger
    Order Thanksgiving meals to go before November 25.

EVENTS

Hometown Happenings & Nearby Fun

The holidays are rolling into Justin, and the calendar is packed with festive fun! From twinkling lights to jolly gatherings, there’s plenty happening to get your holiday spirit dancing.

Tuesday~ Nov 18

Thursday~ Nov 20

Friday~ Nov 21

Saturday~ Nov 22

Sunday~ Nov. 23

📅See our online calendar for upcoming and ongoing events

Upcoming:
11/24-11/28~ NISD/Argyle Student and Staff Holiday
11/24~ Annual Carol of Lights Grapevine
11/27~ Thanksgiving
11/29~ Small Business Saturday shop gifts from your hometown
12/6~ Krum North Pole Texas Market
12/13~ Justin Old Town Christmas

LOCAL HISTORY

From Classroom to City Hall: The Story of W.A. Cox

When Justin first elected its city council—back when members were called Aldermen—the community placed its strongest vote behind W.A. Cox. He earned a total of 45 votes, making him the top vote-getter in that very first election.

Mr. Cox’s roots in Justin ran deep. He lived in town for 40 years and played a pivotal role in both Justin’s incorporation and the early Justin School District. Before the district was integrated into Northwest ISD in 1949, he served as superintendent and as an agriculture vocational teacher. Once Justin became part of NISD, Wayne transitioned into the role of principal at Justin Elementary School. He later finished out his career as principal of Northwest Junior High School.

Beyond education, Wayne was also a driving force in the community. As a leader of the Chamber of Commerce, he helped craft the petition that led to Justin’s incorporation as a city. When the petition succeeded, his name was added to the list of nominees for Alderman—and not only did he win a seat, he received the most votes.

In the years that followed, Mr. Cox went on to serve as Mayor of Justin, continuing his long legacy of leadership.

Today, his name lives on at Wayne A. Cox Elementary School in Roanoke—an honor recognizing Justin’s superintendent, Justin Elementary’s principal, Justin’s first council member, and even Justin’s mayor. A fitting tribute to a man who helped shape the foundation of the community we know today.

Share Your Story with The Justin Journal!

Got an event or fun happening in Justin or nearby? We’d love for you to share it with us! And don’t forget to spread the cheer—share our newsletter with friends so everyone can join in the holiday fun! [email protected]

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