30 Sep Texas Holiday Possession Schedule: A Parent’s Guide for 2025
The holiday season brings excitement, traditions, and sometimes a little extra stress for co-parents. Planning for Thanksgiving and Christmas can help everyone make the most of the holiday season. This guide explains how Texas holiday possession schedules can work, allowing parents to plan and avoid confusion.
Holiday Possession Takes Priority
In Texas, the holiday possession schedule always takes priority over regular weekends or weekday visits. This means that if a parent would typically have a weekend during a holiday, the holiday schedule replaces it. The Texas Family Code establishes these schedules, so most families follow the same structure unless their court order or a mutual agreement states otherwise.
Thanksgiving Possession in 2025
For Thanksgiving, parents alternate who has the holiday each year. In odd-numbered years, such as 2025, the possessory conservator (often the noncustodial parent) can observe Thanksgiving break under the standard schedule.
Thanksgiving possession typically begins the day school lets out for the break and continues through the Sunday after Thanksgiving. Some parents have an order that starts possession at school dismissal, while others follow the standard evening start. Please check your order to determine which arrangement applies to you, as some families have agreed to different terms.
Christmas Break Possession in 2025
Christmas or winter break is divided into two parts, with parents alternating each year.
In odd-numbered years, such as 2025, the managing conservator (often the custodial parent) can have the first part of the break under the standard schedule. This starts the day school lets out for Christmas vacation and ends on December 28. The possessory conservator can have the second part, which begins on December 28 and continues through the day before school resumes in January.
Just like Thanksgiving, some orders allow the holiday period to begin at the time of school dismissal. Check your order to see which schedule your family follows, as parents sometimes agree to arrangements that differ from the standard plan.
Tips for a Smooth Holiday Season
- Review your order early. Don’t wait until the last minute to figure out your schedule.
- Communicate clearly. Share travel plans and pickup details well in advance to avoid misunderstandings.
- Stay flexible where you can. The schedule provides structure, but cooperation helps keep the holidays peaceful for your children.
Understanding your holiday possession schedule helps you plan and avoid unnecessary conflict. If questions arise, review your court order first, and then consult with your attorney if something is unclear.
For families in Denton and Wise Counties, our team regularly works with parents navigating Texas holiday schedules and can help you understand your options.