Things To Do Around DFW: Polar Plunge, Monster Truck Wars, Deep Ellum First Friday and more

Polar Plunge
Photo credit Boston Globe / Contributor Getty Images

Weekends are a gift...unwrap the adventure! Gather your squad, embrace the unknown, and let the weekend magic unfold. KRLD's John Liddle takes you Around Town.

Billy Bob’s: JOSH ABBOTT BAND (Fri and Sat)

Where: Billy Bob’s Fort Worth
When: Friday at 10 p.m., and Saturday at 10 p.m.

Cost: $20-$40

More info: https://billybobstexas.com/events

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

More info

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: Elgar Cello Concerto

A concert of differing moods from composers writing nearly a century apart. Elgar’s introspective Concerto reflects with intensity his despair about the world after the Great War that destroyed millions of lives. You’ll hear echoes of Bach, a sublime Adagio, and a finale conveying profound emotions. Beethoven, feeling nearly rambunctious in his sun infused Fourth Symphony, sends you home on an uplifting note..

Where: Meyerson Symphony Center, Dallas

When: Thursday, January 4 - Sunday, January 7

Cost: $44 and up

More info: https://www.dallassymphony.org/productions/elgar-cello-concerto/

Dallas Black Dance Theatre and the FWSO: Mozart and Stravinsky

Founded in 1974, Dallas Black Dance Theatre has performed for more than four million people worldwide. Be there when they partner with the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra and music director Robert Spano in Bass Performance Hall for Stravinsky’s Petrushka Suite with choreography by Sean Smith, a balletic take on the story of Punch and Judy fame, with its whirling, folk-inspired melodies and high-stepping harmonies. Also on the program are a pair of Mozartian gems, the Overture from The Magic Flute, as well as the esteemed “Jupiter” symphony.

Where: Bass Performance Hall, Fort Worth

When: Jan 5-7

Cost: $26 and up

More info

Death Express!

It’s “All Aboard!” for murder in Death Express! by Kurt Kleinmann. The action occurs on the Trans-Continental Express from Los Angeles to New York. Inept but endearing detective Harry Hunsacker and his paid-by-the-hour friend and assistant, Nigel Grouse (along with Lt. Foster of the real police) find themselves trapped on a train headed for murder! Who is the vicious killer determined to slay everyone on board the train? Could it be the Conductor? What about the European starlet, Valentina Benet? Perhaps the murder-mystery novelist is trying out crimes for her new book? And who is the mysterious Miss Wainwright? Murder and mayhem abound in this delightful tribute to old black-and-white movies.

Where: Eisemann Center, Richardson

When: Jan 3-7; Jan 11-14; Jan 18-21

Cost: $24 and up

More info: https://www.eisemanncenter.com/event/i/9909/d/pegasus-death-express

Deep Ellum First Friday

It’s a celebratory night for art, food, music and culture in historic Deep Ellum on the first Friday of every month. Sip & Shop with complementary mocktails, do a pedal bike progressive happy hour, participate in the Murals and Margs mural tour, or enjoy the Live Art Series with Melanie Hardy Mcvey.

Where: Deep Ellum, Dallas

When: Friday, January 5 from 5-8 pm (Also Feb 2, March 1, April 5)

Cost: Free

More info: https://deepellumfirstfridays.com/

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

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: 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/

Jay Pharoah

Comedian, actor, and impressionist Jay Pharoah rose to prominence as a cast member on the popular sketch comedy show "Saturday Night Live" (SNL) from 2010 to 2016. During his tenure on SNL, he gained recognition for his spot-on impressions of various celebrities, including Barack Obama, Jay-Z, and Denzel Washington. Aside from his work on SNL, Jay Pharoah has showcased his comedic skills through stand-up performances and acting roles in both television and film.

Where: Arlington Improv Comedy Club

When: January 5-7

Cost: $80/table and up

More info: https://improvtx.com/arlington/comic/jay+pharoah/

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

Monster Truck Wars

America's WILDEST monster truck show is coming to Dallas. See these GIANT NATIONAL TV MONSTER TRUCKS as they battle it out on a huge fast track for BIG AIR. The dirt is going to fly! There’s a pre-show Meet & Greet Pit Party with Kids Zone from 11:30am-12:30pm for the matinee and 5:30pm-6:30pm for the evening show.

Where: Fair Park Coliseum, Dallas

When: Saturday, January 6 at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Cost: $10 and up

More info: https://event.attendstar.com/event/show/dallas-texas-monster-truck-wars-2024

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-March 31

Cost: $34.50

More Info: https://thenazarenexp.com/

No Barriers
This special program presented by Chamber Music Society of Fort Worth brings together Orion Weiss, piano; Gary Levinson, violin; Michael Klotz, viola; Ani Aznavoorian, cello. The performance includes: Suk Elegie for Piano Trio, Op. 23; Fauré Piano Quartet No.1 in C minor, Op.15; Brahms Piano Quartet No. 2 in A Major, Op. 26.

Where: Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, 3200 Darnell St, Fort Worth

When: Saturday, January 6 at 2:00 p.m.

Cost: $5 and up

More Info: https://www.cmsfw.org/no-barriers/

PALS Showtime at Galleria Dallas
At the PALS Kids Club at Galleria Dallas there are two events this week. On Thursday, catch three-time Emmy Award-Winning musician David Chicken, leading the kids through high-energy, interactive performances. On Saturday it’s Showtime Saturday: The Knock Knock Show at 11:30 a.m.
Where: Galleria Dallas
When: Thursday, January 4 at 10:30 a.m. and Saturday, January 6 at 11:30 a.m.
Cost: Free
More info: https://galleriadallas.com/programs/pals

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/

Pink Floyd Laser Spectacular
It’s the smash hit multimedia laser and light show featuring the music of Pink Floyd “as you’ve never seen before.”Laser Spectacular carries listeners away on a mind-expanding journey driven by cutting-edge effects, high-powered lasers, and large-screen video projection, all performed to the masterful soundtrack of Pink Floyd. The Laser Spectacular has become a must-see classic for Floyd fans of all ages.
Where: House of Blues Dallas
When: Saturday, January 6 at 7:00 p.m.
Cost: $30 and up
More info: https://laserspectacular.com/

Polar Plunge
Are you ready to take the plunge? Tickets include access to the Polar Plunge event, a t-shirt, hot chocolate, and access to The Cove at The Lakefront for the after party. Pizza will be provided at the after party for each plunger. Registration will take place at 12 P.M. followed by The Polar Plunge at 1 P.M. There will be awards for best costume, youngest plunger, and oldest plunger.
Where: Little Elm Park, 701 West Eldorado Parkway, Little Elm
When: Saturday, January 6 from Noon - 2 p.m.
Cost: $25 a person
More info: https://lakefrontlittleelm.com/events/polar-plunge/

Shen Yun
Shen Yun presents an extraordinary artistic vision that transforms the theatrical experience into a profound, multi-dimensional journey. Showcasing classical Chinese dance, one of the world's oldest and most intricate dance forms, coupled with vibrant animated backdrops and original orchestral compositions, Shen Yun invites audiences into a captivating realm of enchanting beauty and enlightening wisdom.
Where: Winspear Opera House, Dallas
When: January 5-7
Cost: $80 and up
More info: https://www.shenyun.com/find-ticket/list/dallas-wop

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/

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/

Very Eric Carle: A Very Hungry, Quiet, Lonely, Clumsy, Busy Exhibit

The Fort Worth Museum of Science and History presents "Very Eric Carle," an imaginative exhibit inspired by the beloved author and illustrator's "very" books, including The Very Hungry Caterpillar. Dive into a world of creativity, friendship, and imagination, where art and nature blend in a vibrant display of colors and shapes. Discover messages of hope, love, and persistence, finding your own touch of magic.

Where: Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, Fort Worth

When: September 23 to January 7

Cost: $12-$16

More Info: https://www.fwmuseum.org/

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Featured Image Photo Credit: Boston Globe / Contributor Getty Images