The holidays are officially upon us this week! There are many holiday lights and festivals around North Texas this week like the Vitruvian Lights in Addison, Home for the Holidays: A McKinney Christmas and classic plays like A Christmas Carol at the Dallas Theatre Center. There's no shortage of things to do around North Texas this week.
November 27 - December 1
Astra Lumina
Astra Lumina offers a magical night walk through an enchanted forest, transforming ordinary trails into a cosmic journey filled with celestial light, ethereal sounds, and mesmerizing visions. As visitors explore, fallen stars release radiant energy, guiding guests along a luminous pathway to witness their celestial rebirth. This multi-sensory experience is suitable for all ages and invites guests to connect with the stars in a truly enchanting setting.
Where: Trinity Forest Adventure Park, 1800 Dowdy Ferry Rd, Dallas
When: Evenings from October 31 - December 15
Cost: $25 and up
More info: https://feverup.com/m/181149
Billy Bob’s: Uncle Lucius (Wednesday) / William Clark Green (Friday) / Clay Walker (Saturday)
Where: Billy Bob’s Fort Worth
When: Friday at 10 p.m., Saturday at 10 p.m.
Cost: $18 - $65
More info: https://billybobstexas.com/events
A Charlie Brown Christmas from Dallas Children's Theater
Holidays at DCT mean Charlie Brown, Linus, Lucy, Snoopy, and friends are back by popular demand! Discover the meaning of Christmas, or experience the nostalgia of your childhood, while sharing laughs with the Peanuts Gang along the way. As a live combo fills your heart with music, merriment, and warmth, this story based on the Charles Schulz classic special is here just in time for the holidays. Button up your coat, and meet us on the ice as the Baker Theater transforms into an awesome skating rink!
Where: Dallas Children's Theater, 5938 Skillman St, Dallas
When: November 30 - December 1 / December 7-8 / December 14-15 / December 18-22
Cost: $25 and up
More info: https://tickets.dct.org/overview/charlie
A Christmas Carol
Three spirits have come to visit the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge and take him on a fantastic journey through Christmases past, present, and future. Brimming with joyful songs, magical spirits, and holiday cheer, this holiday classic embodies a story of joy, redemption, and the spirit of Christmas. This is a ghost story, which may be too scary for younger children, and includes loud sounds, theatrical haze, and strobe/flashing lights. Not recommended for children under 5. Run time is 90 minutes.
Where: Wyly Theatre, 2400 Flora St, Dallas
When: November 29 - December 1 / December 4-8 / December 11-15 / December 19-24 / December 26-28
Cost: $25 and up
More info: https://dallastheatercenter.org/shows/a-christmas-carol-2024/
Cliburn Family Concerts: The Polar Express
All aboard the Polar Express! Celebrate the wonder and spirit of the holidays with us as we travel to the North Pole to visit Santa’s home. This one-of-a-kind show features dynamic narration and illustrations from of Chris Van Allsburg’s beloved classic book, The Polar Express, with accompanying, hopeful musical interludes and a few surprises.
Where: Fort Worth Stockyards Station, 140 E Exchange Ave, Fort Worth
When: November 30 at 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. / Sunday, December 1 at 2:30 p.m.
Cost: $20 and up
More info: https://cliburn.org/family-concerts/
Coca-Cola's Classic Christmas
This holiday season, Choctaw Stadium in Arlington transforms into a wonderland of lights and festive cheer with Coca-Cola's Classic Christmas. Guests can explore dazzling light displays, skate on a picturesque ice rink, slide down snowy hills, and enjoy seasonal food and drinks. With visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus, plus plenty of holiday magic, Classic Christmas offers unforgettable experiences for families and friends to share this season.
Where: Choctaw Stadium, Arlington
When: November 27 / November 29-December 1 / December 6-8 / December 13-15 / December 19-29
Cost: Varies. $14 and up
More info: https://www.classicchristmas.com/city/dallas-tx-choctaw-stadium
DSO: Dvořák’s New World Symphony
Led by German conductor Markus Poschner, Dvořák’s most-beloved symphony, the Ninth, beguiles you with cascades of hummable tunes, bold horn calls and suggestions of African- and Native American melodies he heard during his American sojourn. But always within earshot is an expression of homesickness for his native Bohemia. Making his DSO debut, Charles Yang, member of the wildly popular string ensemble Time for Three, performs Kris Bowers’ For a Younger Self. This Concerto meant “finding a way to maintain balance and inner peace in this chaotic and troubling world,” the Emmy Award-winning composer says. Best known for his film scores The Green Book, Bridgerton, and King Richard), For My Younger Self is the genre-bending Black composer’s first concert work for orchestra.
Where: Meyerson Symphony Center, Dallas
When: Friday, November 29 - Sunday, December 1
Cost: $49 and up
More info: https://www.dallassymphony.org/productions/dvoraks-new-world-symphony-2/
Dallas Zoo Lights
Embark on a dazzling adventure where the wild glows and magic follows. This holiday season, bring your wildest dreams to life as you journey through the mesmerizing, themed areas and dazzling lights decorating the Dallas Zoo. Stroll through this larger-than-life, magical experience where wild things glow!
Where: Dallas Zoo, 650 S R.L. Thornton Fwy, Dallas
When: Daily through January 5 (Closed Christmas Day)
Cost: $16 and up
More info: https://www.dallaszoo.com/zoolights/
Dinosaurs Live!
Visitors can explore a half-mile nature trail featuring eleven life-size animatronic dinosaurs that move and roar. The exhibit also includes interesting facts about various dinosaurs, stationary baby dinosaurs for kids to play on, and photo ops with a Tyrannosaurus rex and Pachyrhinosaurus. An outdoor hadrosaur fossil dig will inspire budding paleontologists. The exhibit is included with general admission and free for Heard Museum members.
Where: Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, McKinney
When: August 31 - February 19, 2025
Cost: $9-$12
Disney On Ice: Frozen & Encanto
Disney On Ice presents Frozen & Encanto, bringing two beloved stories to life on the ice. Experience the magic of Frozen as Anna and Elsa embark on a journey to save their kingdom, followed by the enchanting tale of Encanto, where Mirabel discovers her unique family’s extraordinary powers. With stunning skating, dazzling special effects, and beloved songs like "Let It Go" and "We Don’t Talk About Bruno," this family-friendly show offers an unforgettable experience for all ages.
Where: Credit Union of Texas Event Center, Allen
When: Wednesday, November 27 / Friday, November 29 - Sunday, December 1
Cost: $35 and up
More info: https://www.disneyonice.com/frozen-and-encanto/
FWSO: Home for the Holidays
Santa’s marking up his list and setting his sleigh’s course for Bass Performance Hall! In this season of joy and togetherness, music-lovers young and old are invited to join in the city’s greatest caroling session in the city. The Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra’s holiday favorite, “Home for the Holidays” concert, features a collection of favorite holiday tunes and a visit from ol’ Kris Kringle himself. Guaranteed to bring a smile to the entire family!
Where: Bass Performance Hall, Fort Worth
When: Friday, November 29 and Saturday, November 30 at 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $37 and up
Forever Plaid: Plaid Tidings
Lyric Stage opens its 31st Season with this holiday classic by Stewart Ross! Presented at the Lyric Studios Space, with both general admission and reserved café tables. Share some holiday joy with your friends and family at Lyric Stage.
At first, Francis, Jinx, Smudge, and Sparky aren't sure why they've returned to Earth for another posthumous performance, but a phone call from the heavenly Rosemary Clooney lets them know that they're needed to put a little harmony into a discordant world. Sprinkled among the Christmas offerings are audience favorites, like their riotous three-minute-and-eleven-second version of The Ed Sullivan Show – this time, featuring the Rockettes, the Chipmunks, and The Vienna Boys Choir, as well as a Plaid Caribbean Christmas that puts the "Day-O" in Excelsis!
The production is rated G and is fun for the whole family!
Where: Lyric Stage, 1170 Quaker St, Dallas
When: November 29 - December 1 / December 6-8 / December 13-15 / December 20-22
Cost: Free
More Info: https://www.lyricstage.org/season31
Galleria Dallas presents Grand Tree Lighting Celebration
Galleria Dallas will host its annual Grand Tree Lighting Celebrations, featuring the iconic Missile Toes, a back-flipping, pyrotechnic Santa on ice. Each show includes live performances by Olympic and National Champion skaters, along with local children who kick off the lighting of the tallest indoor tree in the country.
Where: Galleria Dallas, 13350 Dallas Pkwy, Dallas
When: Friday, November 29 and Saturday, November 30 at Noon
Cost: Free
More Info: https://galleriadallas.com/
Gaylord Texan ICE! - Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
The signature holiday attraction, ICE!, returns with a dazzling showcase of scenes from the beloved classic Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. This immersive experience features magnificent sculptures meticulously hand-carved from over 2 million pounds of ice by master artisans. Guests will step into the story as larger-than-life ice sculptures recreate iconic moments from Rudolph’s journey, complete with stunning detail and vibrant colors. The chilly wonderland, maintained at a frosty 9 degrees, invites visitors to bundle up and enjoy this one-of-a-kind festive tradition that brings the timeless holiday tale to life.
Where: Gaylord Texan, 1501 Gaylord Trail, Grapevine
When: Daily through January 5, 2025
Cost: $20 - $29 (and up)
More Info: https://tickets.gaylordtexan.com/eventperformances.asp?evt=183
George W. Bush Presidential Center: Freedom Matters
Freedom Matters uses rare artifacts and historical documents, interactive activities, and personal perspectives to examine the concept of freedom: where it comes from, what it means, what free societies look like, and the role of the individual in protecting and spreading freedom around the world.
Where: George W. Bush Presidential Center, 2943 SMU Boulevard, Dallas
When: Daily through December 31, 2024
Cost: $20 - $26
More Info: https://www.bushcenter.org/events-and-exhibits/freedom-matters
Holiday at the Arboretum
The Dallas Arboretum celebrates the 10th anniversary of The 12 Days of Christmas with 25-foot-tall gazebos featuring music, animation, and lights that transform into glowing displays at night. The event also includes the Pauline and Austin Neuhoff Family Christmas Village, styled after a European Christmas market, with shops, live entertainment, and photos with Santa. Guests can explore the historic DeGolyer House, showcasing this year’s theme, A Della Robbia Holiday, blending 15th-century Florence with American holiday traditions.
Where: Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas
When: Daily through January 5, 2025
Cost: Daytime ($13-$22) / Night Time ($17-$37)
More Info: https://www.dallasarboretum.org/events-activities/holiday-at-the-arboretum/
Home for the Holidays: A McKinney Christmas
Kick off the holiday season with McKinney’s 44th annual hometown Christmas celebration, Thanksgiving weekend 2024. Set in the heart of McKinney’s 166-year-old historic downtown, this free family-friendly event spans 14 blocks and features traditional live Christmas music, costumed characters, children’s activities, arts and crafts, a petting zoo, and visits with Santa. Guests can enjoy food vendors, a Ferris wheel, carousel, and unique shopping experiences while taking in the festive atmosphere. Highlights include the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on Friday evening at 6:15 p.m. and complimentary shuttle service from First McKinney Baptist Church for added convenience.
Where: Historic Downtown McKinney
When: Friday, November 29 - Sunday, December 1
(Friday, 10:30 a.m. - 9 p.m. • Saturday, 10:30 a.m. - 9 p.m. • Sunday, 12 - 5 p.m.)
Cost: Free
More Info: https://www.mckinneytexas.org/677/Home-for-the-Holidays
The Light Park (Arlington)
The Light Park is a mile-long drive-thru holiday experience filled with millions of lights synchronized to music mixed by DJ Polar Ice. With tickets priced per vehicle, it’s a perfect group outing to cruise through the world's longest light tunnel, enjoy lively beats, and soak in the festive atmosphere.
Where: Hurricane Harbor, Arlington
When: November 1 - January 5
Cost: $29 and up
More Info: https://www.thelightpark.com/arlington
The Light Park (Frisco)
The Light Park is a mile-long drive-thru holiday experience filled with millions of lights synchronized to music mixed by DJ Polar Ice. With tickets priced per vehicle, it’s a perfect group outing to cruise through the world's longest light tunnel, enjoy lively beats, and soak in the festive atmosphere.
Where: Riders Field, 7300 Rough Riders Trl, Frisco
When: November 1 - January 5
Cost: $29 and up
More Info: https://www.thelightpark.com/frisco
Lights on the Farm from Heritage Farmstead Museum
Lights on the Farm returns to the Heritage Farmstead Museum, offering a festive quarter-mile stroll through over one million holiday lights and seasonal displays. Visitors can meet Santa Claus, enjoy treats like s’mores, hot cocoa, and donuts, and take in the sounds of holiday music. With opportunities for memorable photos and family-friendly fun, Lights on the Farm continues to be a cherished seasonal tradition.
Where: Heritage Farmstead Museum, 1900 W 15th St, Plano
When: November 29-December 1 / December 5-8 / December 12-14 / December 20-23 / December 26-28
Cost: Child (3-12) – $10 / Adult (13 & up) – $15 / Military & Seniors (65+) – $10
(Higher prices at the gate)
More info: https://www.heritagefarmstead.org/event/lights-on-the-farm-2024/
Lightscape at Fort Worth Botanic Garden
The Fort Worth Botanic Garden’s third annual Lightscape event returns this holiday season, offering a dazzling experience for visitors of all ages. In collaboration with Sony Music, this extraordinary display features millions of twinkling lights along sparkling pathways, transforming the garden into a magical winter wonderland. With over 80% of the trail featuring new and custom-designed installations, guests can enjoy a mix of exciting new displays and returning favorites. Seasonal treats and warm beverages are available from local vendors, and new this year is the Lightscape Premium Concessions Package. Families can also enjoy special Santa Nights on select dates, making Lightscape a must-see holiday tradition.
Where: Fort Worth Botanic Garden, Fort Worth
When: Daily through January 5
Cost: $16-$26 and up
More info: https://fwbg.org/lightscape/
Maverick City Music
Maverick City Music: Good News Tour with Tasha Cobbs Leonard and JWLKRS and special guests Tim Godfrey, Stephen McWhirter, and Sam Rivera!
Where: Dickies Arena, Fort Worth
When: Friday, November 29 at 7:00 p.m.
Cost: $27 and up
More info: https://dickiesarena.com/event/2024-10-04-maverick-city-music/
Minecraft Experience: Villager Rescue
The Minecraft Experience: Villager Rescue is making its world premiere in Plano this weekend. Designed as an immersive, real-world adventure, the experience allows fans to step into the Minecraft universe and participate in an interactive quest. Visitors will navigate through themed environments, solving puzzles and challenges as they try to rescue villagers from danger. This event marks the beginning of a global tour, with Dallas as its first stop, celebrating Minecraft's 15th anniversary. Fans of all ages can join the fun running through January 5.
Where: Parker Road Station, 2600 Archerwood St, Plano
When: October 18 - January 5
Cost: $32 and up
More info: https://www.minecraftexperience.com/
The Nutcracker (Texas Ballet Theater)
Since its first performance in 1892, Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker has evoked the wonder and joy of the holiday season. You will want to make Ben Stevenson, O.B.E.’s spectacular production of this perennial favorite part of your holiday tradition. Performances at Winspear Opera House (November 29-December 8) and Bass Performance Hall (Dec 13-29)
Where: Winspear Opera House, 2403 Flora St, Dallas
When: November 29 - December 1 / December 6-8
Cost: $30 and up
More info: https://texasballettheater.org/performance/nutcracker-2024/
Prairie Lights in Grand Prairie
Prairie Lights Texas located at Lynn Creek Park on Joe Pool Lake in Grand Prairie will feature an ALL NEW state-of-the-art light tunnel, a REIMAGINED magical walk-thru forest, CAPTIVATING animated light displays, carnival rides, photos with Santa, holiday shopping, and more!
Where: Lynn Creek Park at Joe Pool Lake, Grand Prairie
When: November 28 - December 31
Cost: $50 per car
More info: https://prairielights.org/
Snowday and Santaland at Galleria Dallas
Snowday offers a festive adventure filled with imaginative rooms, whimsical surprises, and countless photo opportunities that will make your holiday season unforgettable. Guests can explore interactive spaces designed for fun and creativity, complete with six specially crafted photo moments featuring integrated cameras and lighting. Right next door is Santaland, where visitors can hop aboard a simulated train ride to the North Pole, stroll through an enchanting moonlit forest adorned with twinkling lights and polar bears, and end the journey at Santa’s cozy chalet for a magical meet-and-greet with the big man himself.
Where: Galleria Dallas, 13350 Dallas Pkwy, Dallas
When: Daily through January 5
Cost: Varies
More info: https://www.snowdaydallas.com/
Six Flags Holiday in the Park
Six Flags Holiday in the Park returns for the 2024 season, transforming the park into a winter wonderland filled with millions of dazzling lights, festive decorations, and holiday cheer. Guests can enjoy thrilling rides under the glow of twinkling lights, stroll through themed areas like Mrs. Claus' Kitchen and Krampus in Paradise, and take in live holiday performances. Highlights include the magical Christmas tree lighting, visits with Santa Claus, and seasonal treats like hot cocoa and funnel cakes.
Where: Six Flags Over Texas, Arlington
When: November 29-December 1 / December 7-8 / December 13-15 / December 20-23 / December 26-31
Cost: Free
More info: https://www.sixflags.com/overtexas/events/holiday-in-the-park
Texas Christkindl Market
The 2024 Texas Christkindl Market returns to Texas Live! in Arlington, bringing the magic of a German-inspired holiday market to North Texas. This family-friendly event features a festive atmosphere with handcrafted gifts, unique holiday décor, and delicious German treats, including bratwurst, schnitzel, strudel, and the beloved warm glühwein. Visitors can enjoy live entertainment, meet St. Nikolaus, and explore a variety of activities perfect for all ages. With its charming European flair and seasonal cheer, the Texas Christkindl Market is the perfect destination to find unique gifts and immerse yourself in holiday traditions.
Where: Texas Live! Arlington
When: Daily through December 23
Cost: Free
More info: https://txchristkindlmarket.com/
Tianyu Lights Festival
The Tianyu Lights Festival is an enchanting journey through the vibrant rainforest of Caballococha, Peru, as seen through the eyes of a curious 7-year-old boy. Walk through the whimsical wonderland to see Koda’s dreams through the luminous art installations. The experience features 19 immersive scenes brought to life with massive, intricately designed lantern sculptures made from metal, fabric, and LED lights. Try out delicious foods and beverages at the Food Court, enjoy live cultural music and dance performances throughout the journey, and complete your visit with a trip to the Marketplace, filled with unique, handcrafted treasures.
Where: Texas Trust CU Theatre, Grand Prairie
When: November 8 - January 19
Cost: $16-$35
More info: https://tianyuculture.us/dallas/
Trains at NorthPark
The Trains at NorthPark is more than just a holiday exhibit—it's a cherished Dallas tradition that brings joy and meaning to the season. Featuring intricately detailed miniature trains traveling over 1,600 feet of track, the display transports visitors through enchanting recreations of iconic cityscapes, offering a magical escape for all ages. Beyond its mesmerizing artistry, the event holds a deeper purpose: every ticket sold supports the Ronald McDonald House of Dallas, helping provide comfort and care for families in need. This unique blend of holiday wonder and community impact makes The Trains at NorthPark a must-see event that captures the true spirit of the season.
Where: NorthPark Center (Level 1 between Starbucks and Tesla)
When: Daily through January 5
Cost: Seniors: $5 / Kids: $7 / Adults: $12
More info: https://trainsatnorthpark.org/
Turkey Trot - Dallas
For over 55 years, the YMCA Dallas Turkey Trot has been a Thanksgiving tradition for families, friends, and athletes of all levels. Join us this year for our annual 5K, 8-mile race, or fun run, and experience the joy of giving back to your community while enjoying a fun-filled day of racing and celebration.
Where: Dallas City Hall Plaza, Dallas
When: Thursday, November 28 at 8:00 a.m. (Race day registration at 7 a.m.)
More info: https://ymcadallas.org/turkeytrot
Turkey Trot - Fort Worth
Start your Thanksgiving Day off right and experience the fun, family-friendly atmosphere of the YMCA Turkey Trot. With a 5K, 8K or 1K Gobbler Trot, you can choose to run, jog or walk for fun. Strollers and dogs are welcome!
Where: The Shops at Clearfork, Fort Worth
When: Thursday, November 28 at 8:00 a.m.
More info: https://ymcafw.org/annual-turkey-trot/
Twas the Night Before Christmas at Casa Mañana
Molly is having trouble finding her Christmas spirit. Determined to make it a Christmas to remember, Molly’s mother takes her on a magical treasure hunt through New York City from Radio City Music Hall to Macy’s, where they encounter dancing elves and even Santa Claus himself! Featuring holiday parodies of today’s most popular songs, this yuletide spectacular is sure to put you in the holiday spirit! This show is suitable for all audiences.
Where: Casa Mañana, Fort Worth
When: November 29-December 1 / December 7-8 / December 14-15 / December 21-23
More info: https://casamanana.org/events/twas/
Vitruvian Lights
Vitruvian Park’s Vitruvian Lights returns, transforming the park into a dazzling holiday wonderland with over 1.5 million LED lights wrapped around 455 trees. Visitors can walk or drive through to soak in the festive atmosphere.
On November 30, a special event featuring the Dallas String Quartet will include gourmet food trucks, sweet treats, free photos with Santa, live reindeer, letters to Santa with Mrs. Claus, holiday characters, an elf balloon artist, and more.
At 6 p.m., the Dallas String Quartet will take the stage, playing a fusion of classical and contemporary music on both traditional and electric strings. Last month, the band debuted at No. 1 on the Classical Albums Billboard Chart with its new album, "ROMANI: The Untold Story," which was recorded at the legendary Abbey Road Studios with the London Symphony Orchestra.
The special event, which continues until 10 p.m., will feature gourmet food trucks, sweet treats, FREE photos with Santa, live reindeer, letters to Santa with Mrs. Claus, classic holiday characters, an elf balloon artist and more! A new addition to the event for 2024 is a 3D walk-through gift box illuminated with LED lights. It’s perfect for Instagram-worthy photos.
Where: Vitruvian Park, 3875 Ponte Ave, Addison
When: Special event November 30 from 6 p.m. - 10 p.m. / and nightly…Now - December 31
Cost: Free
More info: https://www.udr.com/vitruvian-park/vitruvian-park-events/
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