River Legacy Nature Center in Arlington is hosting The Art & Science of Arachnids, a traveling exhibit that combines live arachnid displays with interactive learning and art. Guests can explore themed galleries that highlight spiders, scorpions, and their relatives, with hands-on activities, educational panels, and design elements that show how these creatures inspire art and culture. It's designed as a family-friendly way to demystify arachnids while still giving you a good little shiver just in time for late fall.
When: Daily through early 2026
Where: River Legacy Nature Center, Arlington
Cost: Standard Nature Center admission
Astra Lumina Dallas: An Immersive Nightwalk Experience
The immersive night-walk light show known as Astra Lumina returns to the DFW area for 2025 — a magical mix of lighting, soundscapes, and storytelling that draws from a nighttime "luminous trail" format. Ideal for families and people wanting a walkable, media-rich holiday outing.
When: Daily through December 31
Where: Trinity Forest Adventure Park, Dallas
Cost: $20 and up
Barbie - You Can Be Anything: The Experience
Barbie is the ultimate career guide having had more than 200 jobs over the last 60 years. Explore a variety of careers and learn the story of real-life women who broke barriers in their industry.
When: Daily through January 25
Where: Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, 1600 Gendy Street, Fort Worth
Cost: included with Museum admission: ($12 - $16)
Beauty and the Beast returns to the stage in a refreshed musical production that brings the classic love story to life with updated sets, detailed costumes, and a full theatrical score. The show features many of the familiar songs audiences know, including "Be Our Guest" and "Beauty and the Beast," presented within a large-scale staging created by members of the original creative team. This production offers a polished, traditional Broadway-style take on the timeless tale of transformation, compassion, and love.
When: Daily through January 4
Where: Music Hall at Fair Park, 909 1st Ave, Dallas
Cost: $57 and up
Billy Bob's Concerts (Thursday: Don Louis / Friday & Saturday: Midland)
When: Thursday at 9 p.m. / Friday at 10 p.m. / Saturday at 10 p.m.
Where: Billy Bob's Texas, Fort Worth
Cost: $15 - $80
This reimagined production of Black Nativity, inspired by Langston Hughes, centers on a family gathering during the holiday season while navigating grief and remembrance. The story weaves the biblical Nativity with reflections from ancestors, blending gospel music, storytelling, and tradition in a thoughtful exploration of faith, loss, and community.
When: December 19-21
Where: Bishop Arts Theatre Center, 215 S Tyler St, Dallas
Cost: $20-$35
BOO! Holiday Haunt at Galleria Dallas
Guests are invited to spend the holidays at The BooMont Hotel, which has been fully transformed for the season with festive décor and a playful blend of merry and fright. The immersive setting offers a holiday experience unlike any other, combining seasonal cheer with the hotel's signature spooky atmosphere.
When: Daily through January 4
Where: Galleria Dallas, 13350 Dallas Pkwy, Dallas
Cost: $15 and up
Candlelight: Holiday Special featuring "The Nutcracker" and More
The Listeso String Quartet performs holiday-inspired music under the gentle glow of candlelight.
When: Saturday, December 20 at 6:30p/8:45p and Sunday, December 21 at 6:30p/8:45p
Where: Frontiers of Flight Museum, Dallas
Cost: $41 and up
Christmas Capital of Texas: Grapevine Christmas Village
Grapevine's Historic Main Street transforms into a classic Christmas village with lights, decorations, costumed characters, photo ops, live entertainment, and seasonal treats. Visitors can enjoy the Whoville-inspired Town Square experience, nightly performances, local shops, and holiday activities spread throughout the walkable district. The Village is one of Grapevine's centerpiece attractions during its 40-day "Christmas Capital of Texas" celebration.
When: Nightly through January 5
Where: Historic Main Street, Grapevine
Cost: Free (some activities ticketed)
Embark on a magical Christmas Eve adventure with Ebenezer Scrooge as three otherworldly spirits whisk him away on a breathtaking journey of hope and redemption. From the nostalgic warmth of Christmases past to the stark truths of the present and the ominous shadows of the future, Scrooge's journey is a spectacle of wonder. Prepare for dazzling visuals, enchanting melodies, and a heartwarming tale that celebrates the transformative power of the holiday spirit.
When: December 17-24 / December 26-27
Where: Wyly Theatre, 2400 Flora St, Dallas
Cost: $47 and up
Christmas in the Gardens – Fort Worth Botanic Garden
A beloved Fort Worth tradition, this immersive holiday light-and-garden experience transforms the grounds of the Fort Worth Botanic Garden into a storybook walk of light, music and festive installations. Perfect for a family outing, giving your girls a memorable evening and you an opportunity to pause and soak in creation.
When: Friday, November 21 – January 4
Where: Fort Worth Botanic Garden, Fort Worth
Cost: $20 and up (Kids: $13 and up)
Christmas Lights Spectacular at The Star
The Dallas Cowboys' headquarters in Frisco presents a synchronized light show with LED displays, holiday music, a 67-foot Christmas tree, and weekly events such as appearances by Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders and Cowboys mascot Rowdy. Visitors can also enjoy shopping, outdoor dining, and holiday-themed family zones throughout The Star District.
When: Friday, December 19 at 6 p.m. and Saturday, December 20th at 6 p.m.
Where: The Star in Frisco
Cost: Free
Embark on a magical journey with the all-new Cirque: Frost, where young Jack discovers his destiny as the legendary winter spirit, Jack Frost. Through a dazzling show of high-flying acrobatic stunts and breathtaking feats, witness the heartwarming tale of a dreamer who brings enchantment and wonder to the world.
When: December 19-28
Where: Gaylord Texan, 1501 Gaylord Trail, Grapevine
Cost: $40 and up
City Rink at Main Street Garden
Enjoy outdoor ice skating in Downtown Dallas at City Rink, a festive destination with hot cocoa and views of the giant holiday tree — perfect for families and friends alike. Skate rental and a 75-minute session is included.
When: Daily through Jan 5
Where: Main Street Garden, Dallas
Cost: Varies
Coca-Cola Classic Christmas brings a full holiday village to Midtown Dallas with a walk-through lights experience, Santa photos, stage entertainment, and themed zones built around Coca-Cola's classic holiday branding. The event includes light tunnels, oversized ornaments and props, food vendors, and photo opportunities tailored for families and social-media sharers.
When: December 17-28
Where: Dallas Midtown (Formerly Valley View Mall), at LBJ and Preston, Dallas
Cost: $21 and up
Dallas Symphony Christmas POPS
The Dallas Symphony Orchestra returns with its annual Christmas POPS concert featuring festive favorites, sing-along moments, and seasonal melodies performed with choir and orchestra. This holiday tradition blends classic tunes with spirited arrangements perfect for families and music lovers alike.
When: December 12 – 21
Where: Meyerson Symphony Center, Dallas
Cost: $68 and up
Dallas Zoo Lights returns with what the zoo bills as "Dallas' brightest nights," turning the grounds into an evening-only holiday light trail. Guests can walk through themed zones filled with millions of lights, lantern installations, and large-scale animal displays, with hot chocolate, treats, and seasonal photo ops along the way. The experience runs on select nights through early January, and is marketed as a family-friendly after-hours visit rather than a typical daytime zoo trip.
When: Nightly November 19, 2025–January 4, 2026 (open this weekend) / 5:30 p.m.- 9 p.m.
Where: Dallas Zoo, Dallas
Cost: Special event admission; separate from daytime zoo tickets, Starting at $18
Dave Chappelle brings his stand-up comedy to the American Airlines Center, showcasing the work of an award-winning comedian, writer, producer, and actor widely regarded as one of the most influential voices in comedy. A recipient of the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor, Chappelle has earned multiple Emmy and Grammy Awards for his television work, comedy specials, and live performances, including his acclaimed Netflix releases and multiple stints hosting Saturday Night Live.
Where: American Airlines Center, Dallas
When: Friday, December 19 at 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $99 and up
Encounter the 40-foot T-Rex and 13 new life-size animatronic dinosaurs along the Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary's nature trails at the 20th annual Dinosaurs Live! life-size animatronic dinosaurs exhibit. See the dinosaurs move and hear them roar! Photo op and play area dinosaurs will be available as well. This year, the exhibit also features an outdoor fossil dig. Dinosaurs Live! is included in general admission and free for Heard Museum members.
Where: Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, McKinney
When: Daily, September 6 - March 1
Cost: $12-$16 (2 and under free)
Dungeons & Dragons: The Immersive Quest
This isn't just a game—it's a live, interactive fantasy quest where every choice shapes your destiny. Explore immersive sets, face thrilling challenges, and experience the magic of storytelling brought to life. Solve puzzles, battle mythical foes, and uncover secrets in a one-of-a-kind fantasy world for all ages.
Where: At Home, 2704 Central Expy, Plano
When: December 3-February 1
Cost: $20 and up
At first, Francis, Jinx, Smudge, and Sparky aren't sure why they've returned to Earth for another posthumous performance, but a phone call from the heavenly Rosemary Clooney lets them know that they're needed to put a little harmony into a discordant world. Sprinkled among the Christmas offerings are audience favorites, like their riotous three-minute-and-eleven-second version of The Ed Sullivan Show – this time, featuring the Rockettes, the Chipmunks, and The Vienna Boys Choir, as well as a Plaid Caribbean Christmas that puts the "Day-O" in Excelsis!
Where: Lyric Stage, 1170 Quaker St, Dallas
When: December 19-21
Cost: $43 and up
Frostival at Howell Family Farms
Howell Family Farms in Arlington hosts Frostival, a winter-themed festival filled with lights, holiday activities, and family attractions across the historic farm property. Visitors can explore illuminated displays, enjoy seasonal food and treats, take part in kids' activities, and experience farm-style holiday charm in a relaxed outdoor setting. The event is designed as a walk-through winter celebration, offering photo spots, festive décor, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere throughout the holiday season.
Where: Howell Family Farms, 4016 W Division St, Arlington
When: December 4-28
Cost: $19 and up
Game of Thrones: The Exhibition
The Arlington Museum of Art, in partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery Global Experiences, will host Game of Thrones: The Exhibition, an immersive showcase of original costumes, props, and behind-the-scenes elements from the acclaimed series. Featuring more than 60 costumes spanning all eight seasons—from Daenerys Targaryen's dragon-scale gowns to Jon Snow's Night's Watch armor—the exhibition highlights the artistry of the show's award-winning designers and craftspeople. Visitors can also explore images, design sketches, and insights into the historical influences and detailed craftsmanship that brought Westeros to life.
Where: Arlington Museum of Art, 1200 Ballpark Way, Arlington
When: October 4, 2025 – April 5, 2026
Cost: $18 - $25
Gift of Lights at Texas Motor Speedway
A classic drive-through holiday light park, Gift of Lights features more than two miles of LED displays, animated tunnels, and themed scenes set up around the speedway grounds. Families can stay in the car for the entire show, making it one of the most weather-proof holiday experiences in North Texas.
When: Nightly through January 5
Where: Texas Motor Speedway, Fort Worth
Cost: $35 per vehicle
Harry Potter™: The Exhibition brings the Wizarding World to life through an immersive experience featuring authentic props, costumes, and interactive activities inspired by the beloved film series and its extended universe. Visitors can practice Quidditch™, brew potions, conjure a Patronus, explore iconic settings like Hagrid's Hut and the Great Hall, and discover behind-the-scenes details from the making of the films. The exhibition also includes special After Hours Nights for guests 18 and older, complete with themed drinks and a more intimate experience.
Where: Pepper Square, 14856 Preston Rd, Dallas
When: Daily through January 31
Cost: $30 and up
The Dallas Arboretum's signature holiday event, Holiday at the Arboretum, is underway, featuring the 12 Days of Christmas Victorian-style gazebos, the European-inspired Christmas Village, and thousands of lights across the main garden. Seasonal programming includes evening openings, visits with Santa, holiday tea, and live music on select dates.
When: Evenings and select daytime hours daily through January 4
Where: Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, Dallas
Cost: Special event pricing; approx $40 (discounts for members)
Holiday in the Park (Six Flags Over Texas)
The classic holiday tradition at Six Flags Over Texas returns for 2025, offering festive lights, rides with seasonal overlay, holiday shows, and family-friendly attractions. It's a good option for those who want holiday cheer combined with amusement-park thrills, and the season runs long enough to catch even after Black Friday.
When: Now through December 31
Where: Six Flags Over Texas, Arlington
Cost: $55 (add ons vary)
Ice featuring Elf at the Gaylord Texan
Step into the whimsical world of Buddy the Elf at ICE! Journey through iconic scenes from the beloved film, brought to life in magnificent, hand-carved sculptures from more than 2 million pounds of ice. Capture epic photos, race down exhilarating, two-story ice slides, and immerse yourself in the holiday spirit, just like Buddy. Explore your favorite Buddy the Elf moments. Immerse yourself in the kind of magic that only Buddy can create and see Papa Elf, Mr. Narwhal, Jovie, Santa (you know him!), and more all carved into larger-than-life ice sculptures! Plus, soar down one of the two-story ice slides.
Where: Gaylord Texan, Grapevine
When: Daily through November 19-January 4
Cost: $35 and up
It's A Wonderful Life - Screening at The Majestic!
The Texas Theatre and the Majestic theatre are again teaming up to present the grand master of holiday movies - Frank Capra's ITS A WONDERFUL LIFE (1946) at the historic Majestic theater in downtown Dallas!
Where: Majestic Theatre, Dallas
When: Friday, December 19 at 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $15
Let's Fly: A Traveling Exhibition
Balloon Museum presents Let's Fly in Dallas — the third stop of its Texas tour. A one-of-a-kind experience set in the iconic space of the South Side Studios, featuring monumental inflatable artworks by renowned international artists. The exhibition explores air not only as a physical element, but as a metaphor for movement, lightness, and boundless travel.
Where: South Side Studios, 2901 Botham Jean Blvd, Dallas
When: Daily through April 26
Cost: $51 for adults
The Light Park (multiple locations)
The Light Park is back at three venues this season (Arlington, Little Elm and Frisco). The drive-thru event features amazing LED light displays synced to your favorite holiday tunes.
Where: Riders Field, 7300 Rough Riders Trail, Frisco
Arlington: Hurricane Harbor, 1800 E Lamar Blvd, Arlington
Little Elm: Little Elm Park, 701 W Eldorado Pkwy, Little Elm
When: Nightly through January 4
Cost: $40 and up (higher for priority entry)
Lights on the Farm at Heritage Farmstead Museum, Plano
A family-friendly seasonal light and holiday-display walk hosted by the Heritage Farmstead Museum. Visitors stroll through illuminated farm grounds, historic buildings, light-decorated barns, and enjoy a low-key, nostalgic holiday atmosphere — perfect for younger children or anyone looking to avoid big crowds.
Where: Heritage Farmstead Museum, Plano
When: Nightly November 28 – December 23, 2025 (open this weekend)
Cost: $12 - $20
Main Street Magic - Grand Prairie
Main Street Magic continues through this weekend with several holiday inspired events. Kris Kringle's Drive In on December 19 and 20 with car clubs and food trucks at Old Sonic Drive In at the Corner of West Main Street and NW 4th Street. Anastasia the Musical plays December 19-21 at Uptown Theater. Stop by the Mistletoe Marketplace at Market Square on Saturday from 1-7 or Sunday from 1-5.
When: Friday, December 19- Sunday, December 21.
Where: Various spots around Grand Prairie
Cost: Some events free / others ticketed
Miracle Holiday Pop-Up Bar at Texas Live!
The Miracle Christmas pop-up bar returns to Texas Live!, transforming one of the spaces into a fully decked-out holiday cocktail lounge with themed décor, specialty drinks, and seasonal glassware. Running from November 22 through Christmas Eve, it's designed as an adults-night-out experience, often pairing with other events at the complex such as concerts and game-day watch parties.
When: Open nightly through December 24
Where: Texas Live!, Arlington
Cost: Entry is generally free; guests pay per cocktail, with limited-edition souvenir mugs available for purchase
NCAA Division II National Football Championship
Ferris State takes on Harding for the D2 crown.
When: Saturday, December 20 at 3 p.m.
Where: McKinney ISD Stadium, McKinney
Cost: $16 and up
Texas Ballet Theater presents The Nutcracker. This cherished tradition brings families together year after year, offering a world of enchantment where snowflakes swirl, dreams come to life, and holiday magic fills the air. Let Tchaikovsky's timeless score and Ben Stevenson, O.B.E.'s captivating choreography awaken your holiday spirit this Christmas.
Where: Bass Hall
When: December 12-28
Cost: $60 and up
Pentatonix: Christmas in the City Tour.
Where: Dickies Arena, Fort Worth
When: Sunday, December 21 at 7 p.m. and Monday, December 22 at 7 p.m.
Cost: $80 and up
Perot Museum – "Bug Lab: A Journey into the World of Insect Ingenuity"
What if the planet's smallest geniuses could share their biggest secrets? Bug Lab is a captivating exhibition exploring the remarkable genius of insects, offering an unparalleled opportunity to experience the world from a bug's perspective. It's opening this weekend at the Perot Museum. Visitors can explore immersive bug chambers, test their reflexes at interactive adaptation stations, and examine real specimens in hands-on labs—all while discovering the incredible abilities, behaviors, and science behind the insect world.
Where: Perot Museum of Nature and Science, Dallas
When: Daily through January 4, 2026
Cost: $15-$25
This season, Meow Wolf Grapevine is hosting Phenomenomaly, a family-friendly event centered on an unusual cosmic occurrence unfolding throughout the exhibition. Visitors can encounter interactive live performances, mysterious characters, and puppet-driven storytelling woven into the different worlds, along with a limited run of event-exclusive merchandise.
Where: Meow Wolf Grapevine, 3000 Grapevine Mills Pkwy Suite 253, Grapevine
When: December 19-21 / December 26-28 / December 31-January 4
Cost: $34 and up
The Pigeon Gets A Big Time Holiday Extravaganza!
Mo Willems' familiar characters come together for a holiday-themed stage production featuring music, storytelling, and playful moments designed for young audiences. The show blends songs, humor, and light audience interaction into a seasonal musical experience for families.
Where: Dallas Children's Theater, 5938 Skillman St, Dallas
When: December 19-21
Cost: $20 and up
Prairie Lights - Grand Prairie
A drive-through holiday light display offering a festive, family-friendly outing featuring animated light scenes, musical synchronization, and stay-in-the-car convenience. It's a go-to for families wanting a no-fuss, weather-proof holiday lights experience — especially useful if you're traveling with young kids or pets.
Where: Fort Worth Stockyards Station, Stampede Room,140 E Exchange Ave, Fort Worth
When: Open nightly November 27 - December 31 at 6 p.m.
Cost: $50 per car ($149 for a fast pass)
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
The timeless holiday classic returns to the Dome! Join Rudolph, Hermey the Elf, Yukon Cornelius, and the Abominable Snow Monster on an unforgettable adventure. Filled with holiday hits like "A Holly Jolly Christmas," "The Island of Misfit Toys," "The Most Wonderful Day of the Year," and of course, "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer," this joyous musical is filled with friendship and self-discovery. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer teaches us that sometimes, the thing that makes you different is what makes you special!
Where: Casa Mañana Theatre, Fort Worth
When: December 20-23
Cost: $19 and up
Inside Galleria Dallas, this indoor winter-themed experience combines festive décor, Santa visits, snow-effect features, lights, holiday music, and family-friendly activities. It's especially handy if weather outside gets cold — a warm, convenient holiday outing for families, shoppers, or anyone wanting a cozy festive vibe.
Where: Galleria Dallas, Dallas
When: November 14, 2025 – January 4, 2026 (open this weekend)
Cost: $41 - $51 and up
Sk8 to Elimin8 Cancer Holiday Ice Show
The Sk8 to Elimin8 Cancer Holiday Ice Show brings together elite figure skaters for a special seasonal performance emceed by Olympic champion Scott Hamilton. The event features appearances by Olympians Mariah Bell, Ashley Cain, and Polina Edmunds, with proceeds supporting the Scott Hamilton CARES Foundation's cancer research efforts.
Where: NYTEX Sports Centre, 8851 Ice House Dr, North Richland Hills
When: Saturday, December 20 at 7 p.m.
Cost: $54 and up
R&B singer, songwriter, and author Kem brings a holiday-themed performance featuring his signature soulful sound.
Where: Winspear Opera House, Dallas
When: Friday, December 19 at 8 p.m.
Cost: $63 and up
The almost 70-year relationship between Arlington and its sister city, Bad Königshofen, inspired the Texas Christkindl Market to commemorate its first magical season in 2011. With several markets all over Europe for the holidays, the Texas Christkindl Market also works with its Friendship City and partner Christmas city, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, to bring the same wonderful magic and feeling to Texas. Visitors will discover handcrafted gifts and collectibles, including exclusive Käthe Wohlfahrt merchandise and designs from the iconic Rothenburg ob der Tauber Christmas Village.
Where: Globe Life Field, Arlington
When: November 28 - December 23
Cost: Free (Free Parking will be available in Lot B)
Experience an enchanting night with Koda's Adventure to the Magical Ocean at Texas Trust CU Theatre Festival Grounds. Walk through the whimsical wonderland to see Koda's dreams through the luminous art installations. It's more than just a lantern show. It's an immersive journey that invites you to see the world through wonder and imagination. Follow Koda through glowing realms where ocean dreams sparkle, starlit fields glow with warmth, and playful nights come alive with light and laughter.
Where: Texas Trust CU Theatre, 1001 Texas Trust Way, Grand Prairie
When: Daily through January 18
Cost: $19 and up
Trains at Northpark is a unique, beloved, and visually stunning holiday exhibition featuring a fascinating array of miniature trains rolling across 1,600 feet of track on a journey through Dallas and America's most iconic cityscapes. Each season, the display is refreshed with new scenes and features, making it a must-see year after year. Ronald McDonald House of Dallas (RMHD) is the beneficiary of this yearly event.
Where: NorthPark Center, Dallas
When: Daily through January 4, 2026
Cost: $5 - $12
Trans-Siberian Orchestra presents The Ghosts of Christmas Eve
Trans-Siberian Orchestra returns with The Ghosts of Christmas Eve, a concert production that blends rock music, classical elements, and elaborate staging to tell a holiday story through light, sound, and narration. The show features original TSO compositions alongside reimagined Christmas music, presented with the group's signature lasers, pyrotechnics, and orchestral arrangements.
Where: American Airlines Center, Dallas
When: Saturday, December 20 at 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $71 and up
Treaty Oak Revival is coming to Dickies Arena in Fort Worth with special guests Slade Coulter and Austin Upchurch on Saturday, December 20th.
Where: Dickies Arena, Fort Worth
When: Saturday, December 20 at 7 p.m.
Cost: $75 and up
At Vitruvian Park, Vitruvian Lights wraps 468 trees and park areas in over a million LED lights — creating a glowing, walkable holiday wonderland. It's free to attend, and perfect for a quiet evening stroll or festive family outing.
Where: Vitruvian Park, 3966 Vitruvian Way, Addison
When: Daily through Jan 1, 2026; lights on nightly 5–11 p.m.
Cost: Free
Winter Wonderland Weekend at Sundance Square
Winter Wonderland Weekend in the Plaza is a holiday family experience featuring Gift Markets, Santa, Live Holiday Music and the tallest live Christmas Tree in Texas. Additionally, you can visit great restaurants, retail shops, art galleries, movies, live theater, comedy and other entertainment venues in Sundance Square.
Where: Sundance Square, Fort Worth
When: December 19 - December 21 from 5 p.m. - 10 p.m. each night
Cost: Free
