It's holiday time and there is plenty to do in North Texas to get you in the spirit. From Christmas lights and festivals to theater and concerts, it's a busy holiday week across Dallas-Fort Worth.
A Christmas Carol
Three spirits have come to visit the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge and take him on a fantastic journey through Christmases past, present, and future. Brimming with joyful songs, magical spirits, and holiday cheer, this holiday classic embodies a story of joy, redemption, and the spirit of Christmas. This is a ghost story, which may be too scary for younger children, and includes loud sounds, theatrical haze, and strobe/flashing lights. Not recommended for children under 5. Run time is 90 minutes.
Where: Wyly Theatre, 2400 Flora St, Dallas
When: December 19-24 / December 26-28
Cost: $25 and up
More info: https://dallastheatercenter.org/shows/a-christmas-carol-2024/
Coca-Cola's Classic Christmas
This holiday season, Choctaw Stadium in Arlington transforms into a wonderland of lights and festive cheer with Coca-Cola's Classic Christmas. Guests can explore dazzling light displays, skate on a picturesque ice rink, slide down snowy hills, and enjoy seasonal food and drinks. With visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus, plus plenty of holiday magic, Classic Christmas offers unforgettable experiences for families and friends to share this season.
Where: Choctaw Stadium, Arlington
When: December 19-29
Cost: Varies. $14 and up
More info: https://www.classicchristmas.com/city/dallas-tx-choctaw-stadium
Dallas Trail of Lights
Experience the holiday magic at the Dallas Trail of Lights, set against the stunning Dallas skyline and Reunion Tower. Enter through the World's Largest Light Tunnel, explore dazzling displays, and snap Instagram-worthy photos at every turn. Enjoy the Grand Carousel, take in sweeping views from the Ferris Wheel, and race down the Ice Slide or play in the Giant Snow Foam Pit. Highlights include a Drone Show lighting up the sky at 6:30, 8:30, and 10:30 each night, a mesmerizing Projection Mapping Show, and a cozy visit with Santa himself. With hot cocoa and festive cheer, it's a night of unforgettable holiday fun for all ages.
Where: 700 Sports Street, Dallas
When: Daily through Christmas Day
Cost: $10-$15
More info: https://www.geoji.com/g/Dallas-Trail-of-Lights-9930
Dallas Zoo Lights
Embark on a dazzling adventure where the wild glows and magic follows. This holiday season, bring your wildest dreams to life as you journey through the mesmerizing, themed areas and dazzling lights decorating the Dallas Zoo. Stroll through this larger-than-life, magical experience where wild things glow!
Where: Dallas Zoo, 650 S R.L. Thornton Fwy, Dallas
When: Daily through January 5 (Closed Christmas Day)
Cost: $16 and up
More info: https://www.dallaszoo.com/zoolights/
Dinosaurs Live!
Visitors can explore a half-mile nature trail featuring eleven life-size animatronic dinosaurs that move and roar. The exhibit also includes interesting facts about various dinosaurs, stationary baby dinosaurs for kids to play on, and photo ops with a Tyrannosaurus rex and Pachyrhinosaurus. An outdoor hadrosaur fossil dig will inspire budding paleontologists. The exhibit is included with general admission and free for Heard Museum members.
Where: Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, McKinney
When: August 31 - February 19, 2025
Cost: $9-$12
Gaylord Texan ICE! - Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
The signature holiday attraction, ICE!, returns with a dazzling showcase of scenes from the beloved classic Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. This immersive experience features magnificent sculptures meticulously hand-carved from over 2 million pounds of ice by master artisans. Guests will step into the story as larger-than-life ice sculptures recreate iconic moments from Rudolph's journey, complete with stunning detail and vibrant colors. The chilly wonderland, maintained at a frosty 9 degrees, invites visitors to bundle up and enjoy this one-of-a-kind festive tradition that brings the timeless holiday tale to life.
Where: Gaylord Texan, 1501 Gaylord Trail, Grapevine
When: Daily through January 5, 2025
Cost: $20 - $29 (and up)
More Info: https://tickets.gaylordtexan.com/eventperformances.asp?evt=183
George W. Bush Presidential Center: Freedom Matters
Freedom Matters uses rare artifacts and historical documents, interactive activities, and personal perspectives to examine the concept of freedom: where it comes from, what it means, what free societies look like, and the role of the individual in protecting and spreading freedom around the world.
Where: George W. Bush Presidential Center, 2943 SMU Boulevard, Dallas
When: Daily through December 31, 2024
Cost: $20 - $26
More Info: https://www.bushcenter.org/events-and-exhibits/freedom-matters
Holiday at the Arboretum
The Dallas Arboretum celebrates the 10th anniversary of The 12 Days of Christmas with 25-foot-tall gazebos featuring music, animation, and lights that transform into glowing displays at night. The event also includes the Pauline and Austin Neuhoff Family Christmas Village, styled after a European Christmas market, with shops, live entertainment, and photos with Santa. Guests can explore the historic DeGolyer House, showcasing this year's theme, A Della Robbia Holiday, blending 15th-century Florence with American holiday traditions.
Where: Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas
When: Daily through January 5, 2025
Cost: Daytime ($13-$22) / Night Time ($17-$37)
More Info: https://www.dallasarboretum.org/events-activities/holiday-at-the-arboretum/
Holiday Inn
The beloved film classic comes to the stage in a charming crowd-pleaser featuring one glorious Irving Berlin number after another, each celebrating a different festivity.
Where: Theatre Arlington, 305 W Main St, Arlington
When: December 20-22
Cost: $35 and up
More Info: https://theatrearlington.org/production/holiday-inn/
Lektrik: A Festival of Lights
Lektrik Dallas lights up Fair Park with over 100 dazzling sculptures crafted from steel and silk, creating a magical journey through rainforests, ancient civilizations, and fairy tales. Visitors of all ages can explore vibrant botanical scenes, cultural depictions of Mayan, Aztec, and Egyptian history, interactive photo ops, live performances, and delicious food. This awe-inspiring festival blends artistry, imagination, and culture for an unforgettable experience.
Where: Texas Discovery Gardens at Fair Park, 3601 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Dallas
When: December 18-22 / December 25-29 / January 1-5 / January 8-12 / January 15-19 / January 22-26 / January 29-February 2 / February 5-9 / February 12-16 / February 19-23 / February 26-March 2 / March 5-9 / March 12-16 / March 19 / March 20 / March 23 (Wed - Sun: 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM)
Cost: $22 and up
More Info: https://lektrik.com/dallas/
The Light Park (Arlington)
The Light Park is a mile-long drive-thru holiday experience filled with millions of lights synchronized to music mixed by DJ Polar Ice. With tickets priced per vehicle, it's a perfect group outing to cruise through the world's longest light tunnel, enjoy lively beats, and soak in the festive atmosphere.
Where: Hurricane Harbor, Arlington
When: November 1 - January 5
Cost: $29 and up
More Info: https://www.thelightpark.com/arlington
The Light Park (Frisco)
The Light Park is a mile-long drive-thru holiday experience filled with millions of lights synchronized to music mixed by DJ Polar Ice. With tickets priced per vehicle, it's a perfect group outing to cruise through the world's longest light tunnel, enjoy lively beats, and soak in the festive atmosphere.
Where: Riders Field, 7300 Rough Riders Trl, Frisco
When: November 1 - January 5
Cost: $29 and up
More Info: https://www.thelightpark.com/frisco
Lights on the Farm from Heritage Farmstead Museum
Lights on the Farm returns to the Heritage Farmstead Museum, offering a festive quarter-mile stroll through over one million holiday lights and seasonal displays. Visitors can meet Santa Claus, enjoy treats like s'mores, hot cocoa, and donuts, and take in the sounds of holiday music. With opportunities for memorable photos and family-friendly fun, Lights on the Farm continues to be a cherished seasonal tradition.
Where: Heritage Farmstead Museum, 1900 W 15th St, Plano
When: December 20-23 / December 26-28
Cost: Child (3-12) – $10 / Adult (13 & up) – $15 / Military & Seniors (65+) – $10
(Higher prices at the gate)
More info: https://www.heritagefarmstead.org/event/lights-on-the-farm-2024/
Lightscape at Fort Worth Botanic Garden
The Fort Worth Botanic Garden's third annual Lightscape event returns this holiday season, offering a dazzling experience for visitors of all ages. In collaboration with Sony Music, this extraordinary display features millions of twinkling lights along sparkling pathways, transforming the garden into a magical winter wonderland. With over 80% of the trail featuring new and custom-designed installations, guests can enjoy a mix of exciting new displays and returning favorites. Seasonal treats and warm beverages are available from local vendors, and new this year is the Lightscape Premium Concessions Package. Families can also enjoy special Santa Nights on select dates, making Lightscape a must-see holiday tradition.
Where: Fort Worth Botanic Garden, Fort Worth
When: Daily through January 5
Cost: $16-$26 and up
More info: https://fwbg.org/lightscape/
Minecraft Experience: Villager Rescue
The Minecraft Experience: Villager Rescue is making its world premiere in Plano this weekend. Designed as an immersive, real-world adventure, the experience allows fans to step into the Minecraft universe and participate in an interactive quest. Visitors will navigate through themed environments, solving puzzles and challenges as they try to rescue villagers from danger. This event marks the beginning of a global tour, with Dallas as its first stop, celebrating Minecraft's 15th anniversary. Fans of all ages can join the fun running through January 5.
Where: Parker Road Station, 2600 Archerwood St, Plano
When: October 18 - January 5
Cost: $32 and up
More info: https://www.minecraftexperience.com/
The Nutcracker (Texas Ballet Theater)
Since its first performance in 1892, Tchaikovsky's The Nutcracker has evoked the wonder and joy of the holiday season. You will want to make Ben Stevenson, O.B.E.'s spectacular production of this perennial favorite part of your holiday tradition.
Where: Bass Performance Hall, Fort Worth
When: December 19-24 / December 26-29
Cost: $30 and up
More info: https://texasballettheater.org/performance/nutcracker-2024/
Prairie Lights in Grand Prairie
Prairie Lights Texas located at Lynn Creek Park on Joe Pool Lake in Grand Prairie will feature an ALL NEW state-of-the-art light tunnel, a REIMAGINED magical walk-thru forest, CAPTIVATING animated light displays, carnival rides, photos with Santa, holiday shopping, and more!
Where: Lynn Creek Park at Joe Pool Lake, Grand Prairie
When: November 28 - December 31
Cost: $50 per car
More info: https://prairielights.org/
Six Flags Holiday in the Park
Six Flags Holiday in the Park returns for the 2024 season, transforming the park into a winter wonderland filled with millions of dazzling lights, festive decorations, and holiday cheer. Guests can enjoy thrilling rides under the glow of twinkling lights, stroll through themed areas like Mrs. Claus' Kitchen and Krampus in Paradise, and take in live holiday performances. Highlights include the magical Christmas tree lighting, visits with Santa Claus, and seasonal treats like hot cocoa and funnel cakes.
Where: Six Flags Over Texas, Arlington
When: December 20-23 / December 26-31
Cost: Free
More info: https://www.sixflags.com/overtexas/events/holiday-in-the-park
Snowday and Santaland at Galleria Dallas
Snowday offers a festive adventure filled with imaginative rooms, whimsical surprises, and countless photo opportunities that will make your holiday season unforgettable. Guests can explore interactive spaces designed for fun and creativity, complete with six specially crafted photo moments featuring integrated cameras and lighting. Right next door is Santaland, where visitors can hop aboard a simulated train ride to the North Pole, stroll through an enchanting moonlit forest adorned with twinkling lights and polar bears, and end the journey at Santa's cozy chalet for a magical meet-and-greet with the big man himself.
Where: Galleria Dallas, 13350 Dallas Pkwy, Dallas
When: Daily through January 5
Cost: Varies
More info: https://www.snowdaydallas.com/
Tianyu Lights Festival
The Tianyu Lights Festival is an enchanting journey through the vibrant rainforest of Caballococha, Peru, as seen through the eyes of a curious 7-year-old boy. Walk through the whimsical wonderland to see Koda's dreams through the luminous art installations. The experience features 19 immersive scenes brought to life with massive, intricately designed lantern sculptures made from metal, fabric, and LED lights. Try out delicious foods and beverages at the Food Court, enjoy live cultural music and dance performances throughout the journey, and complete your visit with a trip to the Marketplace, filled with unique, handcrafted treasures.
Where: Texas Trust CU Theatre, Grand Prairie
When: November 8 - January 19
Cost: $16-$35
More info: https://tianyuculture.us/dallas/
Trains at NorthPark
The Trains at NorthPark is more than just a holiday exhibit—it's a cherished Dallas tradition that brings joy and meaning to the season. Featuring intricately detailed miniature trains traveling over 1,600 feet of track, the display transports visitors through enchanting recreations of iconic cityscapes, offering a magical escape for all ages. Beyond its mesmerizing artistry, the event holds a deeper purpose: every ticket sold supports the Ronald McDonald House of Dallas, helping provide comfort and care for families in need. This unique blend of holiday wonder and community impact makes The Trains at NorthPark a must-see event that captures the true spirit of the season.
Where: NorthPark Center (Level 1 between Starbucks and Tesla)
When: Daily through January 5
Cost: Seniors: $5 / Kids: $7 / Adults: $12
More info: https://trainsatnorthpark.org/
Vitruvian Lights
Vitruvian Park's Vitruvian Lights returns, transforming the park into a dazzling holiday wonderland with over 1.5 million LED lights wrapped around 455 trees. Visitors can walk or drive through to soak in the festive atmosphere.
Where: Vitruvian Park, 3875 Ponte Ave, Addison
When: Now - December 31
Cost: Free
More info: https://www.udr.com/vitruvian-park/vitruvian-park-events/
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