From music and theater to parades and kid-friendly events, the first weekend of December features holiday events all over North Texas. Here's what's going on around Dallas-Fort Worth from Thursday, Nov. 30 through Sunday, Dec. 3.
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical
Based on the best-selling book and play by Barbara Robinson, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical is the story of the Herdmans, who are the worst kids in the history of the world. They lie, they steal, they bully other kids, and they smoke smelly cigars. There used to be only one place where you’d never see them—church. This all changes when Charlie Bradley brags that his Sunday school offers free snacks. All six of the Herdmans show up at church in search of pizza, cookies and Hawaiian Punch, and end up in the Christmas pageant.
Where: Casa Mañana, Fort Worth
When: Dec 2-3; Dec 9-10; Dec 16-17; Dec 21-23
Cost: $19 and up
More info: https://casamanana.org/events/best-christmas-pageant-ever/
A Charlie Brown Christmas
We're fortunate that Christmastime means Charlie Brown, Linus, Lucy, Snoopy, and friends are back at DCT by popular demand! Rediscover the true reason for the season while sharing laughs with the Peanuts Gang along the way. As a live combo fills your heart with music, merriment, and warmth, Charles Schulz's classic special makes you nostalgic for days gone by. Button up your coat, and meet us on the ice as the Baker Theater becomes a most awesome skating rink!
Where: Dallas Children's Theater, 5938 Skillman St, Dallas
When: Dec 2-3; Dec 9-10; Dec 16-17; Dec 19-23
Cost: $35 and up
More info: https://www.dct.org/plays/
Cowboys Christmas Extravaganza
This holiday season, the Dallas Cowboys will host the seventh annual Cowboys Christmas Extravaganza powered by Reliant at The Star in Frisco every Friday and Saturday evening at 6pm through December 16.
The 20-minute show ignites The Star with a powerful mix of game day excitement and Christmas cheer on Tostitos Championship Plaza. The show kicks off with a dazzling performance by the world-famous Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, followed by the lighting of The Star’s 67-foot LED Christmas tree by a Dallas Cowboys football legend.
Fan-favorite moments from the show include the tree’s stunning light display synchronized with original Christmas music and pyro which lights up the sky at The Star.
Schedule of special guest appearances:
Friday, December 1 – Bradie James & Family
Saturday, December 2 – Tyrone Crawford & Family
Friday, December 8 – To Be Announced…
Saturday, December 9 – DeMarcus Ware & Family
Friday, December 15 – Gene & Jerry Jones
Saturday, December 16 – Tony Dorsett & Family
This event is free and open to the public. Parking is free and available onsite
Where: The Star, 9 Cowboys Way, Frisco
When: Dec 1-2; Dec 8-9; Dec 15-16
Cost: Free
More info: https://thestardistrict.com/christmas/
DMA: "Between Wonder and Seduction"
Assembling nearly all his known surviving works, Abraham Ángel: Between Wonder and Seduction introduces U.S. audiences to this legendary artist with the first major survey of his work in over 35 years. During his brief three-year career, Ángel developed a unique artistic style that successfully captured the rapidly changing society and culture of Mexico in the early 20th century. Despite his work sometimes being overshadowed by his tragic death, Ángel’s compelling paintings cemented his status as a pivotal figure in the history of modern Mexican art. See the vibrant and captivating works of Abraham Ángel with the premiere of this ambitious retrospective.
Where: 1717 North Harwood, Dallas
When: Now - January 28, 2024
Cost: Free
More info: https://dma.org/art/exhibitions/abraham-angel-between-wonder-and-seduction
DSO: Christmas Pops
Enjoy classic holiday favorites with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra and sing-along carols with a chorus. The Christmas magic continues with a special visit from the man in red.
A special family friendly matinee performance takes place Saturday featuring the Dallas Symphony's Childrens' Chorus.
Where: Meyerson Symphony Center, Dallas
When: December 1 – 3
Cost: Tickets start at $88
More info: https://www.dallassymphony.org/productions/christmas-pops-2023/
FWBG: Lightscape
Lightscape is back at Fort Worth’s Botanic Garden for the 2023 holiday season. Lightscape will feature spectacular artistic installations that come to life after dark with color, imagination, and sound. Walk a one-mile-long path with suspended strands and tunnels of light, a fire garden, undulating wave of bluebonnets, singing trees, treetop sculptures, and artistic installations. Then toast marshmallows over a fire and drink hot chocolate and other seasonal drinks at stations along the trail.
Where: Fort Worth Botanic Garden, 3220 Botanic Garden Blvd.,Fort Worth
When: Daily through January 1
Cost: $15-$23 ($12-$18 on “value nights”) / Less for members
More info: https://fwbg.org/calendar-events/signature-events/lightscape/
Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys host the Seahawks. The Cowboys are 8-3 and have not trailed for one single second this year when they have played at AT&T Stadium. They are nine-point favorites against the Seahawks.
Where: AT&T Stadium
When: Thursday, 7:15 p.m.
Cost: Standing Room Only Tickets start at $30
More Info: https://attstadium.com/
FLORIGAMIINTHEGARDEN
Enjoy a new outdoor sculpture exhibition by Santa Fe artists Jennifer and Kevin Box. The show presents a fresh look at paper folding in the 21st Century with large-scale origami-inspired metal sculptures. Emerging butterflies, big birds, grazing deer, and blooming flowers all celebrate the process of plant pollination. The colorful, whimsical, and kinetic sculptures were created in collaboration with modern masters of paper folding: Robert J. Lang, Michael G. LaFosse and Beth Johnson. Their intricate folds have been transformed into monumental metal sculptures by Kevin Box and his studio team to inspire, educate and entertain audiences in the outdoor setting of public gardens.
Where: Fort Worth Botanic Garden, 3220 Botanic Garden Blvd, Fort Worth
When: Through February 14
Cost: $6 - $12
More info: https://fwbg.org/events/florigami/
Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience
Adventure into an illuminated forest. A nighttime woodland trail experience filled with magical creatures and wizarding wonders from the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films. Set in a beautiful woodland, this experience has been brought to life by award-winning theatrical designers and experiential creators. Celebrating some of the most iconic forest scenes from the beloved film series, visitors can come face-to-face with magical creatures including a Hippogriff, Nifflers, and more. Strike your best stance for a wand duel photo before trying your hand at casting a Patronus to illuminate the dark woods.
Where: Little Elm Park, 701 W Eldorado Pkwy, Little Elm
When: Daily through January 13
Cost: $44 and up
More info: https://hpforbiddenforestexperience.com/little-elm/
Holiday at the Arboretum
Holiday at the Arboretum returns with a garden transformed for the magic of the season including the return of our beloved Christmas Village, the 12 Days of Christmas and our Dazzling Musical Tree! We also invite you to visit our historic DeGolyer House, elaborately decorated by renowned designer Michael Hamilton, and featuring our new collection of nearly 600 nutcrackers amongst other classic Christmas themes. This exhibit is open daily, and every Monday–Wednesday evening.
Where: Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, Dallas
When: Thru January 5
Cost: $12 - $20
More info: https://www.dallasarboretum.org/events-activities/holiday-at-the-arboretum/
Dallas Holiday Parade
Dallas' 36th Annual Holiday Parade kicks off at Commerce and Houston, but there are festivities after the parade including vendors, entertainment, and holiday fun at Main Street Gardens and Civic Gardens.
When: December 2, 9:00am - 11:00am
Where: Downtown Dallas
Cost: Parade is free / Various costs for food & vendors
More Info: https://dallasholidayparade.com/
ICE! featuring Dr.
Seuss' "How the Grinch Stole Christmas!"
Embark on a magical journey through larger-than-life, whimsical scenes from the iconic Dr. Seuss classic ‘How the Grinch Stole Christmas'carved from over two million pounds of ice. In the one-of-a-kind holiday experience ICE!, you'll zip down two-story-tall slides made of pure ice, traverse through immersive ice tunnels and arches, and step into colorful, multi-sensory scenes starring your favorite characters like The Grinch, his dog Max, Cindy-Lou, and many festive Whos from Who-ville! Over 40 world-renowned master artisans spend over 6-weeks hand-carving approximately 6,000 blocks of ice - each weighing 300 pounds - to create this can't miss 17,000-square-foot frozen attraction.
Where: Gaylord Texan, 1501 Gaylord Trail, Grapevine
When: Through December 31
Cost: $21 - $30 and up
More info: https://christmasatgaylordtexan.marriott.com/ice
The Light Park
The Light Park has locations in Arlington and Frisco this year. Step into a world of dazzling festive magic at The Light Park! This enchanting mile-long drive-thru extravaganza invites guests to experience the sparkle of millions of synchronized lights dancing to the beats of DJ Polar Ice's music mix. Forget about per-person pricing – it's all about per vehicle, making it the ultimate joyous adventure for families and friends. Cruise through the longest light tunnel on the planet, groove to the coolest tunes, and revel in the holiday spirit like never before!
Where: Hurricane Harbor Arlington, 1800 E Lamar Blvd, Arlington
Where: Riders Field, 7300 Rough Riders Trail, Frisco
When: Through January 1
Cost: Starting at $25/car
Info: https://www.thelightpark.com/arlington
Info: https://www.thelightpark.com/frisco
Lights on the Farm at Heritage Farmstead Museum
The Heritage Farmstead Museum brings back Lights on the Farm! This family friendly, all-outdoor event features a quarter-mile trail through the historic farm site showcasing over 1.5 million lights and animated displays crafted by First Choice Lights. Guests can enjoy photo ops, hot chocolate, a visit with Santa, s'mores and so much more.
Where: Heritage Farmstead Museum, 1900 W 15th St, Plano
When: Dec 1-3; Dec 8-10; Dec 14-17; Dec 21-23; Dec 28-30
Cost: Kids - $7 / Adults - $12 (At the gate, Kids - $10 / Adults - $15)
More Info: https://app.gopassage.com/events/lights-on-the-farm-2023
Meow Wolf: The Real Unreal
Is it real? Is it a dream? Is it Meow Wolf’s fourth permanent exhibition? Yes. Get to know the unknown in this brand new, mind-bending, interactive art experience located at Grapevine Mills. Explore the transformative power of creative energy at Meow Wolf’s The Real Unreal. When an ordinary family encounters the extraordinary, an inspiring tale of chosen family, community, and the power of imagination unfolds within a mesmerizing, interactive artscape. Featuring a massive collaboration between Texas and Santa Fe based artists, Meow Wolf Grapevine expands into a new era of art and storytelling.
Where: Meow Wolf Grapevine, 3000 Grapevine Mills Pkwy Suite 253, Grapevine
When: Through December 31
Cost: $40 and up
More Info: https://meowwolf.com/
MJ the Musical
He is one of the greatest entertainers of all time. Now, Michael Jackson’s unique and unparalleled artistry comes to you as MJ, the multi Tony Award®-winning new musical centered around the making of the 1992 Dangerous World Tour, begins a tour of its own. Created by Tony Award-winning Director/Choreographer Christopher Wheeldon and two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage, MJ goes beyond the singular moves and signature sound of the star, offering a rare look at the creative mind and collaborative spirit that catapulted Michael Jackson into legendary status. MJ is startin’ somethin’ as it makes its way across the country.
Where: Music Hall at Fair Park, 909 1st Ave, Dallas
When: November 30 - December 3
Cost: $39 and up
More Info: https://dallas.broadway.com/shows/mj-the-musical/
The Modern Lights: Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth
The Modern trees are illuminated with an array of festive lights in celebration of the holiday season. Passersby experience a stunning display, and visitors are invited to enjoy evening viewing opportunities. The museum galleries are open with free admission until 8 pm on Fridays.
Where: Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, 3200 Darnell St., Fort Worth
When: Daily through February 4
Cost: Free
More info: https://www.themodern.org/modern-lights
The Nazarene – The Way, The Truth, and The Life
The most important story of mankind, told through interactive visual installations.
The state-of-the-art technology with breathtaking 3D set designs, lighting and panoramic sound will immerse you in the magnitude of the word of God, bringing to life scenes from the New Testament. You can look over the shoulder of Jesus, stand in the place of the apostles and walk the path of faith side by side with the Savior.
Where: LOOK Dine-in Cinemas Dallas
When: Through January 7
Cost: $34.50
More Info: https://thenazarenexp.com/
SIX
Enjoy hundreds of years of historical heartbreak as the SIX wives of Henry the 8th belt it out as part of the "Broadway at the Bass" series. You can catch performances Thursday through Sunday. The award winning show closes its run this weekend.
Where: Bass Performance Hall, Fort Worth
When: November 20th - December 3rd
Cost: Tickets start at $121
More info: https://www.basshall.com/
The Nutcracker - Texas Ballet Theater
Filled with lacy snowflakes and delectable sweets, The Nutcracker heralds the magic of the season with visions of enchantment and joy. This is the last weekend to catch the magic.
Where: Winspear Opera House, 2403 Flora St, Dallas
When: December 1-3
Cost: $25 and up
More info: https://texasballettheater.org/performance/the-nutcracker-2023/
Peace Plaza Ice Rink in Grapevine
In Grapevine (The Christmas Capital of Texas), bring the family to experience the Peace Plaza Ice Rink, located at Grapevine Main Station. Get ready to glide across the ice on this Texas sized 4,500-square-foot outdoor ice-skating rink on Historic Main Street.
Where: Peace Plaza in Grapevine, 815 S Main St, Grapevine
When: Through January 7
Cost: $20
More info: https://www.grapevinetexasusa.com/event/peace-plaza-ice-rink/38556/
Brian Kilmeade Discussion & Book Signing
Fox & Friends Host, National Talk Radio Show host, and NY Times Best Selling Author, Brian Kilmeade, hosts a discussion and signs copies of his new book Teddy & Booker T.
Where: The George Bush Presidential Museum
When: December 3, 3pm.
Cost: Free, but book purchase is required
More Info: https://www.bushcenter.org/events-and-exhibits/brian-kilmeade-teddy-and-booker-t
Prairie Lights
Prairie Lights is the premier holiday light park in Texas located at Lynn Creek Park on Joe Pool Lake in Grand Prairie. Prairie Lights 2023 will feature Holiday Village, the magical walk-thru forest, carnival rides, photos with Santa, holiday shopping and more.
Where: Lynn Creek Park at Joe Pool Lake, 5610 Lake Ridge Pkwy, Grand Prairie
When: Daily though December 31
Cost: $50 per car ($149 for a fast pass)
More info: https://prairielights.org/
Pete Davidson
Pete Davidson’s known for his wit, unabashed humor, and that magnetic charm, and the SNL alum is bringing his brand of comedy to the Majestic Theatre for two shows.
Where: Majestic Theatre
When: December 1 – 7pm and 10pm
Cost: Tickets start at $118
More Info: https://majestic.dallasculture.org/
Snowday and Santaland
SNOWDAY invites you to discover what magic awaits you on the other side of the North Pole where the elves play! It’s an always changing immersive holiday photo experience with endless imaginative rooms and hundreds of surprises. At SANTALAND, sit back, relax and enjoy a multi-sensory immersive train experience. Journey through a magical moonlit forest and enchanted path filled with starry lights, polar bears, and photo ops leading to Santa's majestic chalet hideaway. There you will find Santa who already knows every child’s name and what they want most for Christmas! Of course he does, he’s Santa!
Where: Galleria Dallas, 13350 Dallas Pkwy, Dallas
When: Daily though January 7
Cost: Kids start at $19.99; Adults start at $34.99
More info: https://www.snowdaydallas.com/
Texas Christkindl Market
Enjoy German-inspired holiday fun at the Texas Christkindl Market. This delightful, FREE, family-friendly market, inspired by a cherished German tradition, features holiday gifts, decorations, music and other traditional festive goods. Holiday shoppers will enjoy exclusive Käthe Wohlfahrt Christmas decorations and designs from the renowned Rothenburg ob der Tauber Christmas Village in Germany. You’ll find unique local vendors, German food, festive music, and more!
Where: Globe Life Field, 734 Stadium Dr, Arlington
When: Thru December 23
Cost: FREE
More Info: https://txchristkindlmarket.com/
The Trains at NorthPark
The Trains at NorthPark is back for its 36th season. They call it the most elaborate miniature toy train exhibit in Texas. Travel across America as the trains (with 750 rail cars) navigate 1,600 feet of track, chugging past features like the White House, Time Square, Grand Central Station, the Grand Canyon, the Golden Gate Bridge, and more. Most importantly, the exhibit benefits the Ronald McDonald House of Dallas. Since 1987, the Trains have raised more than $18 million for RMHD allowing them to serve more than 40,000 families.
Where: NorthPark Center, 8687 N. Central Expy, Dallas
When: Now - January 5
Cost: $10 adults, $5 for ages 3-12. $5 for seniors
More info: http://www.thetrainsatnorthpark.com/
Vitruvian Lights - at Addison
Vitruvian Park transforms into a magical holiday wonderland during Vitruvian Lights. Stroll through the park, enjoy the view, and grab dinner at local restaurants.
Admission is free. Parking available onsite at Vitruvian Park ($15); Bella Lane Parking Lot, Park Road Parking Lot, and Ponte Avenue Parking Lot.
Where: Vitruvian Park, 3966 Vitruvian Way, Addison
When: Daily through January 1, from 5 p.m. - 11 p.m.
Cost: Free
More info: https://www.udr.com/vitruvian-park/vitruvian-park-events/
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