Get your holdiay fix this weekend with all of the fun things to do around North Texas. KRLD's John Liddle takes us around town.
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 21-23
Cost: $19 and up
More info: https://casamanana.org/events/best-christmas-pageant-ever/
Billy Bob’s: GRADY SPENCER & THE WORK (Thur)/KEVIN FOWLER’S
DECK THE DANCEHALLS TOUR (Fri)/TANNER USREY (Sat)
Where: Billy Bob’s Fort Worth
When: Thursday at 9 p.m., Friday at 9 p.m., and Saturday at 9 p.m.
Cost: $25-$150
More info: https://billybobstexas.com/events
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 19-23
Cost: $35 and up
More info: https://www.dct.org/plays/
Christmas at the Anatole
Discover the North Pole in Dallas, Texas. Every day between December 8 and December 30, 2023, the Hilton Anatole transforms into a winter wonderland that’s fun for the whole family. Enjoy breakfast with Santa, create holiday crafts, explore a Christmas tree forest, and snap photos in a twinkling tunnel of lights.
Where: Hilton Anatole, 2201 N Stemmons Fwy, Dallas
When: Dec 8-30
Cost: $39 and up
More info: https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/dfwanhh-hilton-anatole/things-to-do/christmas/
A Christmas Carol from Dallas Theater Center
Three spirits have come to visit the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge, and to 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.
Where: Wyly Theatre, 2400 Flora St, Dallas
When: Dec 20-24; Dec 26-30
Cost: $18 and up
More info: https://dallastheatercenter.org/shows/a-christmas-carol-2023/
The Christmas Carol Experience
This Christmas Carol Experience is an on your feet 360 immersive retelling of the world's most famous Holiday Story where the audience steps directly into the Charles Dickens Tale... but with a twist. Audiences enter to find themselves guests at the funeral of Jacob Marley before following Ebenezer Scrooge on his quest to claim his inheritance and escape Marley’s fate. Funeral guests follow Scrooge on his journey of redemption and discover their own journey through the past, present, and future to learn that lightness and love will prevail and even the darkest of hearts can learn the true meaning of Christmas.
Where: The Woman's Club of Fort Worth, 1316 Pennsylvania Ave, Fort Worth
When: Dec 20-23; Dec 26-30
Cost: $34 and up
More info: https://brianclowdus.com/performances/christmascarol
Cirque: Spirit Of Christmas
This Cirque-styled Christmas show features dazzling acrobatics, feats of flexibility, and high-flying stunts. This Broadway-style spectacle centers around Noel, a child dismayed and distressed by the hustle and bustle of the holidays. Trying to recapture her lost love of the season, she is visited by spirits who bring back the true meaning of the season in energetic, dreamlike chapters.
Where: Glass Cactus, 1501 Gaylord Trail, Grapevine
When: Dec 16-30
Cost: $40 and up
More info: https://tickets.gaylordtexan.com/eventperformances.asp?evt=166
The Colony Christmas Spectacular
Enjoy the jolliest hits of the season at The Colony Christmas Spectacular! Tune to 99.9 FM and listen to holiday ballads set to a beautiful light show display, all without leaving the warmth of your car.
Where: The Colony Fire Department, 4900 Blair Oaks Dr, The Colony
When: Daily through January 7
Cost: Free
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: September 10, 2023 - January 28, 2024
Cost: Free
More info: https://dma.org/art/exhibitions/abraham-angel-between-wonder-and-seduction
Dallas Zoo Lights
Experience the magic of the holiday season at the Dallas Zoo, where more than two million lights create a dazzling spectacle. Wander through the enchanting displays featuring over 60 larger-than-life glowing lanterns and immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere. Explore holiday-themed exhibits throughout the zoo, including a visit to Santa's Village for a chance to meet the jolly old elf himself.
Don't miss the illuminated art show, a one-of-a-kind traveling exhibit, and capture memorable moments at various holiday-themed photo ops scattered throughout the event. Enjoy musical performances at the Grove, indulge in festive treats for both adults and kids, and marvel at the captivating Dino Lights, included with your Dallas Zoo Lights admission. Complete the experience with a choreographed light show in the amphitheater, engaging craft activities for all ages, and after-hours rides on the carousel, mini-train, and Gorilla Trek for an unforgettable holiday celebration.
Where: Meyerson Symphony Center, Dallas
When: Dec 13-23, Dec 26-Jan 2 from 5:30 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Cost: $15 - $22
More info: https://www.dallaszoo.com/zoolights/
DeSoto On Ice Skating Rink
Come and experience the magic of the holiday season at the DeSoto On Ice Skating Rink! This enchanting Holiday event is set in the heart of DeSoto, Texas, at the DeSoto Town Center. As a highlight attraction of the year, it's the perfect way to embrace the festive spirit with your family and friends.
Where: DeSoto Town Center, 211 East Pleasant Run Road, DeSoto
When: Daily through January 7 (Closed on Christmas Day)
Cost: $15 per ice skater, for one (1) full hour and includes skates
More info: https://ci.desoto.tx.us/339/HomeTown-Holidays-DeSoto-On-Ice
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/
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: August 19 - 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, beginning November 8.
Where: Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, Dallas
When: November 9 – January 5
Cost: $12 - $20
More info: https://www.dallasarboretum.org/events-activities/holiday-at-the-arboretum/
How the Grinch Stole Little Elm
Enjoy a movie screening, ice skating, wagon rides, photos with Santa, and a bundle of fun in and around Santa's Village featuring elf-size houses.
Where: The Lawn at The Lakefront, Little Elm
When: Friday, December 22 from 2 p.m. – 7 p.m. Movie starts at 7 p.m.
Cost: Free
More info: https://lakefrontlittleelm.com/events/how-the-grinch-stole-little-elm/
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: November 10 - December 31
Cost: $21 - $30 and up
More info: https://christmasatgaylordtexan.marriott.com/ice
The Improvised Hallmark Christmas Movie
In this limited series, a cast of characters will improvise all your favorite Christmas storylines- the career-obsessed Christmas-hater, the bad-at-love baker, the evil real estate developer hell-bent on ruining a small Christmas-obsessed town, and more! You may even meet a secret Christmas Prince. Join us for impromptu snowball fights, meet-cutes, Christmas magic, and more!
Where: Stomping Ground Comedy Theater & Training Center, 1350 Manufacturing St #109, Dallas
When: December 22-23
Cost: $15 and up
Irving Berlin’s White Christmas
Beloved classic comes to The Courtyard Theater this holiday season. This heartwarming musical adaptation features the book by David Ives and Paul Blake and seventeen Irving Berlin songs including "Blue Skies," "Sisters," "Count Your Blessings," and the perennial favorite, "White Christmas."
Where: Courtyard Theater, 1509 H Ave, Plano
When: December 22-23
Cost: $20 and up
More info: https://www.rcttheatre.com/
Jared's Epic Blaster Battle: Holiday Edition 2
Embark on an unforgettable experience with a 4-hour series of exhilarating toy blaster battles in a unique setting—the field of an NFL stadium. Bring your own blaster toys and engage in action-packed battles while meeting your favorite toy blaster YouTube personalities. Immerse yourself in the excitement with hands-on access to pre-release toy blaster items, and discover exclusive merchandise, collectibles, surprises, and more for an unparalleled event.
Where: AT&T Stadium, Arlington
When: Saturday, December 23
Cost: $24 and up
More info: https://www.blasterbattle.com/
Les Misérables
Set against the backdrop of 19th century France, Les Misérables tells an enthralling story of broken dreams and unrequited love, passion, sacrifice and redemption–a timeless testament to the survival of the human spirit. This epic and uplifting story has become one of the most celebrated musicals in theatrical history.
Where: Music Hall at Fair Park, Dallas
When: December 20-24 / December 26-31
Cost: $30 and up
More info: https://dallas.broadway.com/shows/les-miserables/
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: November 3 - January 1
Cost: Starting at $25/car
Info: https://www.thelightpark.com/arlington
Info: https://www.thelightpark.com/frisco
Lights at Interlochen
The Lights at Interlochen, one of the largest and longest running holiday traditions in North Texas, is back for the 2023 season. Each year, more than 200 homeowners in this northwest Arlington neighborhood celebrate the season by decorating their homes with festive lights and holiday-themed displays. Admission is free. The public is invited to drive through the neighborhood from 6 to 11 p.m. each night. All motorists MUST enter Interlochen from Westwood Drive at Randol Mill Road. There will be signs throughout the neighborhood directing traffic along the trail.
Where: Interlochen Christmas Lights, Westwood Dr, Arlington
When: Dec 15-25
Cost: Free
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 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
Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl
Get ready for gridiron excellence in the Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl showdown between James Madison and Air Force. Experience the thrilling clash of these powerhouse teams, celebrating the indomitable spirit of the Armed Forces. Don't miss the chance to witness a day of riveting football action and camaraderie as the Dukes and Falcons vie for glory in this epic bowl game.
Where: Amon G. Carter Stadium, Fort Worth
When: December 23 at 2:30 p.m.
Cost: $50 and up (can find cheaper on resale market)
More Info: https://www.armedforcesbowl.com/
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: July 14-December 31
Cost: $40 and up
More Info: https://meowwolf.com/
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: August 25-January 7
Cost: $34.50
More Info: https://thenazarenexp.com/
The Nutcracker - Avant Chamber Ballet
Avant Chamber Ballet’s sparkling production of Paul Mejia’s The Nutcracker with live orchestra returns to Moody Performance Hall followed by the Fort Worth debut of ACB with the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra at Will Roger Memorial Auditorium.
Where: Will Rogers Auditorium, Fort Worth
When: December 22 at 7 p.m. and December 23 at 2 p.m.
Cost: $33 and up
More info: https://www.avantchamberballet.org/performances
The Nutcracker - from Ballet North Texas
No festive celebration is complete without a visit to the theater to witness the magic of The Nutcracker unfold!
Where: Moody Performance Hall, 2520 Flora St, Dallas
When: Dec 22-23
Cost: $28 and up
More info: https://www.balletnorthtexas.org/the-nutcracker
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.
Where: Bass Performance Hall, Fort Worth
When: Dec 19-24
Cost: $57 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: November 21-January 7
Cost: $20
More info: https://www.grapevinetexasusa.com/event/peace-plaza-ice-rink/38556/
Plano Symphony Orchestra: Musical Adventures Family Christmas
Join the Plano Symphony Orchestra for a festive 45-minute concert featuring great holiday music and a chance to meet the string and woodwind families of the orchestra. Various dancers and actors will join us for a modern re-telling of the “Twelve Days of Christmas.” End the afternoon with a sing-a-long of your favorite holiday carols! (Audiences are encouraged to arrive 45 minutes early for the “Instrument Petting Zoo,” where children can interact with instruments up close.)
Where: Addison Theatre Centre, 15650 Addison Rd, Addison
When: December 23 at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.
Cost: $17
More info: https://planosymphony.org/family-series/#FAM
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/
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/
Sugar Lane Lights
Take a journey down a mile long Christmas light drive-thru featuring over 2 million LED lights. There’s a 50-foot tall – 90,000 light Christmas tree, 7 unique tunnels including a 100-foot-long tunnel with over 200,000 + lights & many exciting holiday characters! Tune your radio to the FM station provided at the gate and experience a LED Christmas light show unlike any other!
Where: 12452 Willow Springs, Haslet
When: Daily though Dec 30 (Sun-Thur from 5:30-10/Fri-Sat from 5:30-11)
Cost: $39 and up
More info: https://www.sugarlanelights.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: November 24-December 23
Cost: FREE
More Info: https://txchristkindlmarket.com/
Trade Days at Southfork Ranch
Trade Days at Southfork Ranch gives you the chance to shop from local vendors selling jewelry, furniture, candles, food, and so much more.
Where: Southfork Ranch, 3700 Hogge Dr, Parker
When: December 22-24
Cost: FREE; Parking is FREE on Friday, $5 on Saturday and Sunday
More Info: https://southforkranch.com/trade-days/
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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