The holidays are jam-packed full of fun things to do. See our list of events around North Texas this weekend as John Liddle takes you around town.
Anita Baker at the AAC
Anita Baker, the renowned R&B/soul vocalist, arrives in Dallas to commemorate the 40th anniversary of her inaugural solo album, "The Songstress."
Where: American Airlines Center, Dallas
When: Sunday, December 17 at 8:00 p.m.
Cost: $40 and up
More info: https://www.americanairlinescenter.com/events/detail/anita-baker
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 16-17; Dec 21-23
Cost: $19 and up
More info: https://casamanana.org/events/best-christmas-pageant-ever/
Billy Bob’s: A CODY JINKS CHRISTMAS WITH GUESTS (Thur)/FLATLAND CAVALRY (Fri/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
Black Nativity
Embark on a sensational journey as Bishop Arts Theatre proudly presents the timeless tradition of Black Nativity! For 19 extraordinary years, their annual holiday production, inspired by Langston Hughes's iconic 1960 Broadway show, is back with a mesmerizing display of hand-clapping, toe-tapping, and finger-snapping theatrical wonderment like never before.
Where: Bishop Arts Theatre Center, 215 S Tyler St, Dallas
When: Dec 15-17
Cost: $18 and up
More info: https://bishopartstheatre.org/event/black-nativity/
Brett Eldredge Christmas 2023
See “Mr. Christmas” himself, Brett Eldredge is his live Christmas 2023 concert.
Where: Texas Trust CU Theatre, Grand Prairie
When: Sunday, December 17 at 8:00 p.m.
Cost: $29 and up
More info: https://www.bretteldredge.com/mrchristmas
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 16-17; Dec 19-23
Cost: $35 and up
More info: https://www.dct.org/plays/
The Cher Show
Superstars come and go. Cher is forever. For six straight decades, only one unstoppable force has flat-out dominated popular culture – breaking down barriers, pushing boundaries and letting nothing and no one stand in her way. THE CHER SHOW is the Tony Award®-winning musical of her story, and it’s packed with so much Cher that it takes three women to play her: the kid starting out, the glam pop star, and the icon.
Where: Winspear Opera House, 2403 Flora St, Dallas
When: Dec 14-16
Cost: $25 and up
More info: https://www.attpac.org/on-sale/2023/the-cher-show/
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 13-17; Dec 20-24; Dec 26-30
Cost: $18 and up
More info: https://dallastheatercenter.org/shows/a-christmas-carol-2023/
A Christmas Carol: The Radio Show
It’s Christmas Eve, and with the actors snowed in and unable to make it to the studios of WXMS for the live radio performance of A Christmas Carol, the sound effects person decides to take the audience through the classic tale himself. In an impressive and amusing feat, this telling is performed as a 1940s radio play with one person providing all of the characters’ voices and sound effects. This rollicking, creative adaptation of Dickens’ classic work is sure to warm the hearts of even the chilliest audience members.
Where: Theatre Arlington, 305 W Main St, Arlington
When: Dec 14-17
Cost: $28 and up
More info: https://theatrearlington.org/production/a-christmas-carol-the-radio-show/
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 14-17; Dec 20-23; Dec 26-30
Cost: $34 and up
More info: https://brianclowdus.com/performances/christmascarol
Christmas in the Movies
Everyone has that must-watch list of Christmas movies with a soundtrack that puts you in the holiday spirit. Christmas in the Movies features the merriest music from the films that complete the season. From the classic White Christmas to the recent hit Spirited to the modern classic Elf, plus Love Actually, The Polar Express, Meet Me in St. Louis and more. This show is suitable for most audiences.
Where: Casa Mañana (Reid Cabaret Theatre), 3101 W Lancaster Ave, Fort Worth
When: Dec 12-16
Cost: $65
More info: https://secure.casamanana.org/events/christmasmovies
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
Cirque Musica: Holiday Wonderland
Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland is a must-see holiday event to usher in the magic of the season. Wonderland is an all-new musical journey that will transport audiences to a magical land far away for a fun-filled holiday-themed show experience they will never forget.
Where: Will Rogers Auditorium, 3401 W Lancaster Ave, Fort Worth
When: Sunday, December 17 at 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $21 and up
More info: https://www.cirquemusica.com/holiday-wonderland
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
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 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 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 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: September 10, 2023 - January 28, 2024
Cost: Free
More info: https://dma.org/art/exhibitions/abraham-angel-between-wonder-and-seduction
DSO: The Polar Express in Concert
This holiday season… Believe! The DSO will bring the Academy Award®-nominated holiday classic, The Polar Express™ in Concert, to the Meyerson for the first time. Experience the musical magic of Christmas Eve through Alan Silvestri’s unforgettable score, be immersed as The Polar Express adventures up and down mountains, slip-slides over ice fields, and teeters across mile-high bridges, while the DSO performs live with the film. You’ll see wonders. And you’ll believe. All aboooooard!
Where: Meyerson Symphony Center, Dallas
When: December 15-17
Cost: $95 and up
More info: https://www.dallassymphony.org/productions/the-polar-express-in-concert/
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/
FWSO: Encanto in Concert Live to Film
Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Academy Award-winning film Encanto comes to life in a concert event, featuring the entire feature-length film with a full orchestra performing the score.
The Encanto soundtrack features eight original songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda, with an original score by Germaine Franco. Music from Encanto swept the Visual Media categories at the 65th Grammy Awards, winning Compilation Soundtrack for Visual Media, Score Soundtrack for Visual Media, and Song Written for Visual Media (“We Don’t Talk About Bruno”).
Where: Will Rogers Auditorium, Fort Worth
When: Friday, December 15 at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, December 16 at 2 p.m.
Cost: $41 and up
More info: https://fwsymphony.org/Encanto-in-Concert
For King + Country: A Drummer Boy Christmas
Multi-GRAMMY for KING + COUNTRY comes to Fort Worth with A Drummer Boy Christmas. It’s an extraordinary production, blending festive visuals and stunning lighting and staging effects for a high-octane show!
Where: Dickies Arena, Fort Worth
When: Friday, December 15 at 7:00 p.m.
Cost: Sold out (resale available)
More info: https://dickiesarena.com/event/2023-12-15-for-king-country/
Fort Worth Youth Orchestra Holiday Concert
The Fort Worth Youth Orchestra will be joined by Ballet Frontier and local Choirs in this special Holiday Concert of FWYO's 2023–2024 season.
Where: I.M. Terrell Academy, Fort Worth
When: Sunday, December 17 at 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $10
More info: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/fwyo/1065688
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/
High School Football State Championships
The champions of the 2023 high school football season in Texas will be crowned this weekend at AT&T Stadium. The games run Wednesday through Sunday.
Thursday’s Games:
11am: Conference 2A Division II: Albany vs Mart
3pm: Conference 3A Division I: Malakoff vs Franklin
7pm: Conference 3A Division II: Gunter vs Tidehaven
Friday:
11am: Conference 4A Division I: Anna vs Chapel Hill
3pm: Conference 4A Division II: Gilmer vs Bellville
7pm: Conference 5A Division I: Aledo vs Smithson Valley
Saturday:
11am: Conference 5A Division II: Port Neches-Groves vs South Oak Cliff
3pm: Conference 6A Division I: Duncanville vs North Shore
7pm: Conference 6A Division II: Summer Creek vs Desoto
Where: AT&T Stadium, Arlington
When: Wednesday, December 13 - Saturday, December 16
Cost: $20 per day
More info: https://attstadium.com/events/uil-state-championships-2/
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/
Home for the Holidays: Plano Symphony Orchestra
The always popular “Home for the Holidays” concerts feature seasonal favorites for orchestra, vocalists, and chorus, the popular audience sing-along, visitors from the North Pole, and more! Joining the PSO will be singer-songwriter Nick Fabian, the dynamic and international award-winning vocal quartet Midtown Quartet, as well as the Plano Civic Chorus.
Where: Memorial High School, Frisco (Saturday)
Where: Christ United Methodist Church Plano, 3101 Coit Rd, Plano (Sunday)
When: Saturday, Dec 16 at 4 p.m. and Sunday, December 17 at 4 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $15 - $25
More info: https://planosymphony.org/home-for-the-holidays-2023/
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 15-16 and 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 15-17; December 22-23
Cost: $20 and up
More info: https://www.rcttheatre.com/
It's A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play
It’s a Wonderful Life is about the life of George Bailey, a generous and well-meaning man who has become too downcast and tired to continue living. This presentation is performed as a radio play.
Where: Richardson Theatre Centre, 518 W Arapaho Rd # 113, Richardson
When: December 14-17
Cost: $18 and up
More info: https://richardsontheatrecentre.net/
A John Denver Christmas
Rocky Mountain High Experience, A John Denver Christmas starring Rick Schuler, America’s Top John Denver Tribute, is an intimate experience that will take you back to the ’70s when John Denver’s music permeated the radio airways. Rick's enchanting holiday show features all your favorite Denver hits, plus Christmas tunes.
Where: Eisemann Center, Richardson
When: Saturday, December 16 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Sunday, December 17 at 2 p.m.
Cost: $46 and up
Info: https://www.eisemanncenter.com/event/i/9587/d/a-john-denver-christmas
LBM Coast-to-Coast Challenge
The 3rd Annual US LBM Coast-to-Coast Challenge is coming to Dickies Arena on Saturday, December 16th with a triple-header of marquee men’s college basketball games.
Game 1 - UT Arlington vs. Air Force Academy (4 pm)
Game 2 - Texas Tech vs. Vanderbilt (approx. 6:30 pm)
Game 3 - TCU vs. Arizona State (approx. 9 pm)
Where: Dickies Arena, Fort Worth
When: Saturday December 16
Cost: $15 and up
Info: https://dickiesarena.com/event/2023-12-16-us-lbm-coast-to-coast-challenge/
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 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
Making Spirits Bright
This holiday season, Linda and Larry Petty join the Sammons Center for Making Spirits Bright, an inclusive and family-friendly winter holiday concert. A magical evening awaits with nostalgic melodies and an audience sing-along. Other evening highlights include seasonal treats and appearances by some of their talented friends … and maybe a special visitor from the North Pole?
Where: Sammons Center for the Arts, 3630 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas
When: Friday, December 15 at 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $40 and up
More Info: https://sammonsartcenter.org/concerts/cabaret/
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/
Merry & Bright Christmas Drone Show
Join the Christmas Capital of Texas for Grapevine’s Merry & Bright Christmas Drone Show, presented by Harvest Hall.
Where: Main Street in front of Grapevine Main Station
When: Saturday, December 16 at 8:00 p.m.
Cost: $40 and up
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 - 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 15-17, 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 14-17, 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/
Polyphonic Spree 20th Annual Holiday Extravaganza
This popular annual event presents an evening of high energy and festive fun with the local choral rock band The Polyphonic Spree, holiday tunes and special guests. Festive holiday attire is encouraged for this family-friendly smoke-free event.
Mrs. Mistletoe will be face painting for the kids, Mr. Evergreen will be doing balloon animals, and Vixen the reindeer will make a stop with Santa's sleigh for photos out front with Mr. & Mrs. Claus. Frosty, Rudolph, stilt walking Nutcracker Soldier and elves will be in attendance. Norman & Sharon Seaton Accordion Entertainers will provide lobby entertainment entrance music.
Plus - there’s milk and cookies at midnight.
Where: Majestic Theater, Dallas
When: Friday, December 15 and Saturday, December 16 at 7:00 p.m.
Cost: $45 and up
More info: https://www.prekindle.com/events/goodrecords
Poor Clare
Meet Clare - a stylish teen living in medieval Italy, trying out the newest hairstyles, and keeping up with the latest fashions and juicy town gossip. But everything changes when she meets a man named Francis who has started ranting in the streets. Her mother, sister, and maids don’t understand it, but this man’s ideas are, like, totally starting to make sense – and now she can’t unsee the world he has shown her. The surprising story of Saint Clare of Assisi comes to vivid life in this modern parable of generosity, perfect for the holiday season.
Where: Stage West Theatre, 821 W Vickery Blvd, Fort Worth
When: December 14-17
Cost: $43 and up
More info: https://stagewest.org/poor-clare
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/
Santa Claus vs. The Martians
The hilarious holiday comedy Santa Claus vs. The Martians returns for a SIXTH time. The play is based on the 1964 infamously bad cult movie Santa Claus Conquers the Martians.
Where: MainStage Irving-Las Colinas, 222 E Irving Blvd, Irving
When: December 16-17
Cost: $12 and up
More info: https://mainstageirving.com/santa-claus-vs-the-martians/
Scrooge the Musical from North Texas Performing Arts
North Texas Performing Arts Community Theatre proudly announces its Christmas Tradition “Scrooge, The Musical,” featuring a fast-paced and fun full-length live musical production, Pre-show Christmas Carols, and MORE!
Where: Courtyard Theater, 1509 H Ave, Plano
When: December 13-17
Cost: $18 and up
More info: https://ntpa.org/event/scrooge/
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/
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/
Wintersong: A Musical Holiday Celebration & Sing-a-long
Fort Worth Opera presents Wintersong: A Musical Holiday Celebration, a FREE community concert. The festive event will feature Christmas songs, timeless carols, holiday favorites, opera classics, and more performed by Fort Worth Opera's Lesley Resident and Studio Artists.
Where: First Presbyterian Church of Fort Worth, 1000 Penn St, Fort Worth
When: Friday, December 15 at 7:30 p.m.
Cost: Free (with online reservation)
More info: https://www.fwopera.org/productions/wintersong-2023
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