From New Year's Eve through the weekend, North Texans have plenty of entertainment options. If you haven't seen any of the holiday lights yet, most are up for another week, plus there are concerts and plays to go to all around Dallas-Fort Worth.
Billy Bob’s: New Year's Eve Party Featuring Gary Allan (Tuesday, December 31) / Josh Abbott Band (Friday & Saturday)
Where: Billy Bob’s Fort Worth
When: Tuesday at 10 p.m.; Friday at 10 p.m.; Saturday at 10 p.m.;
Cost: $20 - $100
More info: https://billybobstexas.com/events
Cirque Italia Water Circus
Cirque Italia presents “Aquatic Spectacular.” The name reflects a unique attribute under the tent, as the show features a custom designed water stage that travels from city to city. The stage holds 35,000 gallons of water that performers dazzle over while thrilling the audience with every move. With this “unique feature” under the tent, guests will be surprised, for it’s a show of its own!
Where: Town East Mall, Mesquite
When: January 3 - January 6 (And January 10-13 in Grapevine)
Cost: $15 and up
More info: https://cirqueitalia.com/Water-Circus-Silver
Coca-Cola's Classic Christmas
Classic Christmas at Choctaw Stadium in Arlington will extend its schedule, adding six additional dates from December 30 through January 5. The event, which opens nightly at 5:30 p.m., features over 55,000 square feet of light sculptures, Coca-Cola-themed displays, and holiday activities. Ticket options include an Admissions + Activities Bundle, with unlimited snow slide rides and ice skating for $25-$35, and General Admission for $15-$25, which allows guests to enjoy the lights and festive atmosphere. Visitors can also experience ice skating, a snow slide, and opportunities for photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Where: Choctaw Stadium, Arlington
When: Through January 5
Cost: Varies. $15 and up
More info: https://www.classicchristmas.com/city/dallas-tx-choctaw-stadium
DSO: The Music of Star Wars
Enrico Lopez-Yañez leads the DSO through the epic music of Star Wars. Prepare for an intergalactic experience featuring John Williams’ iconic scores including “Revenge of the Sith,” the heroic “Star Wars Main Title,” and the intense “Duel of the Fates.” This special two night concert will bring the excitement and grandeur of the Star Wars saga to life. From the thrilling space battles to the epic journeys of beloved characters, this orchestral tribute promises to be an unforgettable experience for Star Wars fans and music lovers alike.
Where: Meyerson Symphony Center, Dallas
When: Friday, January 3 at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, January 4 at 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $65 and up
More info: https://www.dallassymphony.org/productions/the-music-of-star-wars/
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
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
FWSO: Dvořák’s 'New World' and Mozart’s 40th
Dvořák’s ninth and final symphony is also his most famous. Dubbed “From the New World” as the composer wrote it while in America and borrowed heavily from American spiritual tunes, it captures something of the grandeur and frontier spirit of the day, even in the tender second movement, an orchestral expression of the song “Goin’ Home.” This concert fuses the new world with the old, as Mozart’s stormy 40th symphony and the overture to his brief comedy The Impresario fill out the front half of the program.
Where: Bass Performance Hall, Fort Worth
When: January 3 at 7:30 p.m., January 4 at 7:30 p.m., January 5 at 2 p.m.
Cost: $26
Flatland Cavalry
Flatland Cavalry: Wandering Star Tour 2024 is coming to Dickies Arena on Tuesday, December 31st, 2024 with special guests Ty Myers and THEBROSFRESH.
Where: Dickies Arena, Fort Worth
When: Tuesday, December 31 at 8:30 p.m.
Cost: Sold Out - Resale Available
More Info: https://dickiesarena.com/event/2024-12-31-flatland-calvary/
Gary Owen's DFW NYE Takeover VIII
Comedian Gary Owen returns with his eighth annual New Year's Eve comedy show, featuring a lineup of talent including Lavell Crawford, Ms. Pat, Nate Jackson, J.J. Williamson, and T. Robe.
Where: Texas Trust CU Theatre, Grand Prairie
When: Tuesday, December 31 at 8:00 p.m.
Cost: $21 and up
More Info: https://texastrustcutheatre.com/events/detail/?event_id=640038
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
Gift of Lights
Celebrate the holiday season at the Gift of Lights Spectacular at Texas Motor Speedway, where millions of twinkling lights transform the venue into a magical winter wonderland. Drive through enchanting illuminated scenes, enjoy festive activities, capture holiday photo ops, and visit with Santa Claus. With stunning displays and seasonal treats, this cherished tradition promises joy and holiday cheer for the entire family.
Where: Texas Motor Speedway, Fort Worth
When: Nightly through January 5
Cost: $35 a vehicle
More Info: https://www.giftoflightstexas.com/
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/
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: 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
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/
Lone Star NYE
Reunion Tower will once again light up the Dallas skyline with its annual Lone Star NYE fireworks show, ringing in the new year with a dazzling display of over 5,000 pyrotechnic effects, a vibrant LED light showcase, and nearly 300 drones creating breathtaking visuals. The event will be broadcast live by our partners at NBC 5. While on-site viewing is not permitted, spectators can enjoy the spectacle from nearby parties or city streets.
Where: Reunion Tower, Dallas
When: Tuesday, December 31 at 11:59 pm
Cost: Free
More info: https://reuniontower.com/
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/
NYE Live! At Texas Live!
Get ready for the most anticipated party of the year! Welcome the New Year in style with exhilarating entertainment, elevated food and drink options, and a vibrant atmosphere. Our party is all about live music, entertainment, dazzling decor, champagne toasts, and celebrations all night long.
Where: Texas Live!, Arlington
When: Tuesday, December 31 at 7 p.m.
Cost: $50 and up
More info: https://texas-live.com/events/2024-12-31-nye-live
Peter Pan
Peter Pan, the timeless musical adventure, returns in a fresh adaptation by playwright Larissa FastHorse, directed by Emmy Award winner Lonny Price with choreography by Lorin Latarro. This beloved tale begins when Peter Pan and Tinker Bell visit the Darling children's bedroom, whisking them away on a magical journey to Neverland. Featuring iconic songs like “I’m Flying,” “I Gotta Crow,” “I Won’t Grow Up,” and “Neverland,” this high-flying production promises excitement, wonder, and adventure for audiences of all ages.
Where: Music Hall at Fair Park, Dallas
When: December 25 - January 5
Cost: $23 and up
More info: https://dallas.broadway.com/shows/peter-pan/
ServPro First Responder Bowl: North Texas vs. Texas State
Where: Ford Stadium, Dallas
When: Friday, January 3 at 3 p.m.
Cost: $33 and up
More info: https://www.firstresponderbowl.com/
Shen Yun
Shen Yun invites you to travel back to the magical world of ancient China. Experience a lost culture through the incredible art of classical Chinese dance, and see legends come to life. Shen Yun makes this possible by pushing the boundaries of the performing arts, with a unique blend of stunning costuming, high-tech backdrops, and an orchestra like no other. Be prepared for a theatrical experience that will take your breath away.
Where: Eisemann Center, Richardson
When: January 3-5
Cost: $80 and up
More info: https://www.shenyun.com/dallas-richardson/eisemann-center
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/
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