Disclaimer :: This guide is sponsored by the City of Ennis to bring you details on holiday happenings this winter.
The holiday season is upon us! And there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate in Dallas, Irving, and around Dallas County.
This section has details on all the best kid-friendly celebrations, parades, and season-long events. Also, check back often as events are added throughout the season.
Click on the tabs below, organized by date. A list will populate under each tab, listing events throughout that date range.
And be sure to view our entire guide to help you find tree farms, light displays, and more! This year we feature new categories: Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and New Years happenings! So visit those sections for holiday-specific events in those categories.
Thank you to our sponsors for making this guide possible: City of Ennis.
For EVEN MORE festivities around the metroplex, visit our local guides for the Fort Worth and Collin County areas.
Create holiday memories in the charming historic downtown of Ennis! Enjoy thrilling snow hill tubing, magical carriage rides, roller skating, and a whimsical elf seek-and-find game. Stroll the streets of downtown while you enjoy holiday music, falling snow, and the best photo-ops for the perfect holiday pictures. This is a wonderful event on November 30 for the entire family to enjoy! Experience the magic of the holidays at 119 North Dallas Street, Ennis, Texas.
Opens November 1
Holiday Tea
The Adolphus :: Dallas
The Adolphus is so beautiful at Christmas, and holiday tea in the French Room is a magical experience. Through January 7.
Opens November 9
Holiday at the Arboretum
Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden :: Dallas
Lots going on at the Arboretum this winter, most notably the 12 Days of Christmas, a series of Victorian-style gazebos depicting moving scenes from the classic carol. You can also visit the Christmas village, featuring charming shops and façades inspired by European Christmas markets. Through January 5.
Opens November 10
Christmas in the Branch
Historical Park :: Farmers Branch
There’s a lot going on in Farmers Branch this season, from ice skating under the stars to the recurring Holiday Marketplace at The Grove. Through December 24.
Opens November 11
Trains at NorthPark
NorthPark Center :: Dallas
The exhibit (located on Level II between Neiman’s & Nordstrom) features 1,800 feet of track and cityscapes from across America. All proceeds benefit Ronald McDonald House of Dallas. Through January 5.
Opens November 17
Dallas Zoo Lights
Dallas Zoo :: Dallas
After the animals go to bed, the zoo becomes illuminated with more than a million twinkling lights. You’ll also find glowing silk lanterns, light shows, musical performances, crafts, treats, Santa, and so much more along the way. Through January 1.
SNOWDAY
Galleria :: Dallas
This magical, multi-sensory event returns to Galleria Dallas with imaginative rooms and surprises for all ages. The whole thing takes about an hour to experience. Through January 7.
Opens November 18
Tour of Trees
Trinity Falls :: Dallas
This fourth annual family-friendly event features the artistry of 10 embellished holiday trees. Ignite your festive imagination and inspire a holiday photo or two. Free with registration. Select dates through December 17.
Opens November 19
Holiday in the Park
Six Flags :: Arlington
Each year, Six Flags Over Texas transforms into a winter wonderland with sparkling lights, festive decorations, seasonal treats, and lots of activities, rides, and heartwarming shows. Select dates through December 31.
Opens November 20
Christmas Capital of Texas
Historic Main Street District :: Grapevine
Grapevine considers itself the “Christmas Capital of Texas.” As such, it has more than a thousand Christmas events and activities scheduled throughout the month. We included the major stuff here, but poke around at the link for even more ideas! Through January 8.
Opens November 24
North Pole Express
Grapevine :: Grapevine Vintage Railroad
Board a festively decorated train and enjoy a Broadway-style show, cookies, a visit from Mrs. Claus, and more as the train travels to the “North Pole.” Select dates through December 23.
Snowland
Great Wolf Lodge :: Grapevine
Explore the magic of winter in an 84-degree water park — from spectacular decorations to visits with Santa and kid-friendly themed activities. Make hotel reservations at the link. Through January 8.
Opens December 2
Santa’s Village
Huffines Park :: Richardson
Huffines Park will host the 16 miniature dwellings (including Santa’s house and workshop), each with a special craft, snack, or activity for children to enjoy. Saturdays and Sundays through December 17. Free!
Christmas Lights, Chocolate, and Sips Tour
Multiple Locations :: Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex
USA Today named this one of the best holiday events in the metroplex! Don’t miss this heated motor coach ride to the best local dessert spots before a tour of spectacular light displays, hot cocoa in hand. Tickets from $39.
Opens December 8
Christmas at the Anatole
Hilton Anatole :: Dallas
North Pole Texas is an interactive holiday experience filled with performances, games, sweets, Christmas light displays, and lots of memorable activities. Weekends through December 30.
City of Ennis :: Cookies with Mrs. Claus :: Create holiday memories in the charming historic downtown of Ennis! Enjoy thrilling snow hill tubing, magical carriage rides, roller skating, and a whimsical elf seek-and-find game. Stroll the streets of downtown while you enjoy holiday music, falling snow, and the best photo-ops for the perfect holiday pictures. This is a wonderful event on November 30 for the entire family to enjoy! Experience the magic of the holidays at 119 North Dallas Street, Ennis, Texas.
November 18
Home for the Holidays Tree Lighting
Southlake Town Square :: Southlake
You’ll find carolers, crafts, carriage rides, snow tubing, live music, ice sculpting, Santa photos, and more in Southlake Town Square this evening. Tree lighting at 6:00 p.m. followed by a one-minute fireworks show. Admission and all activities are free!
Vitruvian Lights
Addison Circle Park :: Addison
The magical wonderland glows all season, but there’s an opening night party with food trucks, sweet treats, free photos with Santa, classic holiday characters, an elf balloon artist, and more. Free! (Event parking is $15.)
November 19
Fort Worth Parade of Lights
Downtown :: Fort Worth
Over 100 floats will participate in this year’s holiday tradition, which started forty years ago. While the parade begins at 6:00 p.m., be sure to arrive early to reserve a spot, sip hot cocoa, or shop and dine downtown. Free!
November 20
Carol of Lights
Historic Downtown :: Grapevine
This holiday season kick-off features live performances, dazzling dance numbers, and a tree lighting ceremony. Family-friendly fun and food vendors will be there, too! Enjoy fireworks and laser shows at 7:30 and 8:30 p.m. Free!
November 30
Christmas at the Perry
A.W. Perry Homestead Museum :: Carrollton
Stroll through the park at the A.W. Perry Homestead Museum for lights and photo ops. Take a tour of the Perry house to see the Victorian Christmas decorations and Santa’s elves at work — they’ve turned a few rooms into workshop areas. Pre-registration is required. Free!
December 1
Holiday Home Tour
The Alexander Mansion :: Dallas
Docent-led group tours meet at the main stair in the foyer of this historic Dallas landmark. Groups leave approximately every half hour. Mark your calendar for next year’s bistro lunch, because this year has already sold out! Tours from $15. Through December 3.
December 2
Christmas in the Branch
Liberty Plaza :: Farmer’s Branch
This tree lighting at Liberty Plaza includes outdoor ice skating, carnival rides, games, face painters, Santa, strolling characters, shopping from local vendors at the Holiday Marketplace at the Grove, and fireworks. Some activities are pay-to-play, but admission is free!
Holiday at the Farm
Samuell Park :: Mesquite
Join Dallas Parks & Rec at Samuell Park for a festive day featuring an artisan gift market, food vendors, a holiday hayride, stage performances, and visits with Santa and Mrs. Clause. Free!
Christmas in the Park
Westlake Park :: Mesquite
Head to Westlake Park in Mesquite for games, bounce houses, marshmallow roasting, contests, music and performances on stage, Santa, and more. Some activities are pay-to-play, but admission is free! Through December 3.
Dallas Holiday Parade
Downtown :: Dallas
Wear your most festive red outfits to the 2023 Dallas parade. Check the link for lots more details, including a parade route map. Free!
Reliant Lights Your Holidays
Downtown :: Dallas
Bring your entire family to the AT&T Performing Arts Center for an evening of holiday magic and music. Enjoy live bands, a themed drone show, wintery snow playground, crafts for the kids, and Santa photos. Free with RSVP at the link!
Richardson Christmas Parade
Richardson High School :: Richardson
The 51st annual parade will be themed A Parade of Misfit Toys. See link for details and trophy categories for participants.
Santa on the Square
The Square :: Carrollton
Celebrate with Santa as he helps light the Historic Downtown Carrollton Square. Enjoy the giant snow globe, reindeer, toy soldiers, crafts, and more. Official tree lighting ceremony to take place at 6:00 p.m. Free!
December 6
Meet Santa’s Reindeer
Bookmarks in Northpark :: Dallas
This Dallas Public Library branch located inside of NorthPark Center will host Santa’s reindeer and sleigh, for pictures and story time. Free!
Wreathmaking
Polk-Wisdom Library :: Dallas
To infuse your home with festive spirit, why not skip the store and make your own custom wreath? The library will provide the reds, greens and bows. Just bring the holiday cheer! Free!
December 7
Chanukah Menorah Lighting
Galleria :: Dallas
Celebrate the first night of Chanukah at the Galleria with the large-scale menorah. Located on level one, near Tiffany & Co.
A Garland Christmas on the Square
Downtown :: Garland
Come enjoy the tree lighting ceremony at the newly renovated Garland Square! There will be live music, real reindeer, carolers, a snow hill, inflatables, Santa, and lots more. See details at the link. Free!
Magical Candlelight Christmas-Town 2023
11th Street :: Garland
Festively decorated homes on 11th Street will be open to the public this evening. Stroll the neighborhood and enjoy carolers and musicians on stage, horse-drawn carriage rides, photo ops with Santa and Mrs. Claus, a live Nativity, crafts, and hot cocoa.
December 9
Cityline Merry Market
Cityline :: Richardson
Support local businesses, enjoy live holiday tunes, and finish all of your holiday shopping in one stop! Head to the Southeast corner of Highway 75 and President George Bush Turnpike for this market, nestled between the State Farm buildings, restaurants, and shops. Free!
Tamales Day
Farmer’s Market :: Dallas
‘Tis the season for tamales! Join the fun and celebrate Tamal Day at this tamalada. Corn husk, banana leaf, traditional, vegan, dessert-based, and more flavors and varieties will be available from a variety of curated Hispanic vendors. Free!
Winter Wonderland
White Rock Hills Library :: Dallas
The White Rock Hills Branch of the Dallas Public Library will be transformed into a winder wonderland, complete with crafts and activities for the whole family. Free!
December 13
Hanukkah Storytime
Bookmarks in Northpark :: Dallas
Celebrate the season with the Aaron Family JCC for a story time that celebrates Hanukkah! At this Dallas Public Library branch nestled inside of NorthPark Center, families can read a book, sing some songs, and do a craft to celebrate the festival of lights. Free!
December 15 – 17
Holiday Rollerskating
Historic Downtown :: Ennis
Dust off your roller skates and head to downtown Ennis for some holiday rollerskating. There will be a limited amount of skates provided. The city highly encourages you to bring your own, if you have them. Sunday hours from 2:00 – 6:00 p.m. Free!
December 16
Candlelight at Old City Park
Old City Park :: Dallas
Experience an old-timey Christmas at Old City Park (it’s back to the original name!) with more than 13 acres of decorated buildings, strolling carolers, craft vendors, food trucks, and crafts for kids. Through December 17.
Christmas in the Park
Fair Park :: Dallas
This 25th annual charitable event provides support to the thousands of less fortunate kids and families in our city who are in need of holiday assistance. Find out more info and register (or sign up to volunteer) at the link.
December 20
Christmas Storytime
Bookmarks in Northpark :: Dallas
Celebrate the season at this Dallas Public Library branch nestled inside of NorthPark Center. Read a book, sing some songs, and do a craft to celebrate this season of giving. Free!
December 27
Kwanzaa Storytime
Bookmarks in Northpark :: Dallas
Celebrate the season at this Dallas Public Library branch nestled inside of NorthPark Center! Enjoy storytelling and drums by Percussion Things, and do a craft to celebrate this festival of African American culture and heritage. Free!
- Ongoing
-
Opens November 1
Holiday Tea
The Adolphus :: DallasThe Adolphus is so beautiful at Christmas, and holiday tea in the French Room is a magical experience. Through January 7.
Opens November 9
Holiday at the Arboretum
Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden :: DallasLots going on at the Arboretum this winter, most notably the 12 Days of Christmas, a series of Victorian-style gazebos depicting moving scenes from the classic carol. You can also visit the Christmas village, featuring charming shops and façades inspired by European Christmas markets. Through January 5.
Opens November 10
Christmas in the Branch
Historical Park :: Farmers BranchThere’s a lot going on in Farmers Branch this season, from ice skating under the stars to the recurring Holiday Marketplace at The Grove. Through December 24.
Opens November 11
Trains at NorthPark
NorthPark Center :: DallasThe exhibit (located on Level II between Neiman’s & Nordstrom) features 1,800 feet of track and cityscapes from across America. All proceeds benefit Ronald McDonald House of Dallas. Through January 5.
Opens November 17
Dallas Zoo Lights
Dallas Zoo :: DallasAfter the animals go to bed, the zoo becomes illuminated with more than a million twinkling lights. You’ll also find glowing silk lanterns, light shows, musical performances, crafts, treats, Santa, and so much more along the way. Through January 1.
SNOWDAY
Galleria :: DallasThis magical, multi-sensory event returns to Galleria Dallas with imaginative rooms and surprises for all ages. The whole thing takes about an hour to experience. Through January 7.
Opens November 18
Tour of Trees
Trinity Falls :: Dallas
This fourth annual family-friendly event features the artistry of 10 embellished holiday trees. Ignite your festive imagination and inspire a holiday photo or two. Free with registration. Select dates through December 17.
Opens November 19
Holiday in the Park
Six Flags :: Arlington
Each year, Six Flags Over Texas transforms into a winter wonderland with sparkling lights, festive decorations, seasonal treats, and lots of activities, rides, and heartwarming shows. Select dates through December 31.
Opens November 20
Christmas Capital of Texas
Historic Main Street District :: GrapevineGrapevine considers itself the “Christmas Capital of Texas.” As such, it has more than a thousand Christmas events and activities scheduled throughout the month. We included the major stuff here, but poke around at the link for even more ideas! Through January 8.
Opens November 24
North Pole Express
Grapevine :: Grapevine Vintage RailroadBoard a festively decorated train and enjoy a Broadway-style show, cookies, a visit from Mrs. Claus, and more as the train travels to the “North Pole.” Select dates through December 23.
Snowland
Great Wolf Lodge :: GrapevineExplore the magic of winter in an 84-degree water park — from spectacular decorations to visits with Santa and kid-friendly themed activities. Make hotel reservations at the link. Through January 8.
Opens December 2
Santa’s Village
Huffines Park :: RichardsonHuffines Park will host the 16 miniature dwellings (including Santa’s house and workshop), each with a special craft, snack, or activity for children to enjoy. Saturdays and Sundays through December 17. Free!
Christmas Lights, Chocolate, and Sips Tour
Multiple Locations :: Dallas/Fort Worth MetroplexUSA Today named this one of the best holiday events in the metroplex! Don’t miss this heated motor coach ride to the best local dessert spots before a tour of spectacular light displays, hot cocoa in hand. Tickets from $39.
Opens December 8
Christmas at the Anatole
Hilton Anatole :: DallasNorth Pole Texas is an interactive holiday experience filled with performances, games, sweets, Christmas light displays, and lots of memorable activities. Weekends through December 30.
- November
-
City of Ennis :: Cookies with Mrs. Claus :: Create holiday memories in the charming historic downtown of Ennis! Enjoy thrilling snow hill tubing, magical carriage rides, roller skating, and a whimsical elf seek-and-find game. Stroll the streets of downtown while you enjoy holiday music, falling snow, and the best photo-ops for the perfect holiday pictures. This is a wonderful event on November 30 for the entire family to enjoy! Experience the magic of the holidays at 119 North Dallas Street, Ennis, Texas.
November 18
Home for the Holidays Tree Lighting
Southlake Town Square :: SouthlakeYou’ll find carolers, crafts, carriage rides, snow tubing, live music, ice sculpting, Santa photos, and more in Southlake Town Square this evening. Tree lighting at 6:00 p.m. followed by a one-minute fireworks show. Admission and all activities are free!
Vitruvian Lights
Addison Circle Park :: AddisonThe magical wonderland glows all season, but there’s an opening night party with food trucks, sweet treats, free photos with Santa, classic holiday characters, an elf balloon artist, and more. Free! (Event parking is $15.)
November 19
Fort Worth Parade of Lights
Downtown :: Fort WorthOver 100 floats will participate in this year’s holiday tradition, which started forty years ago. While the parade begins at 6:00 p.m., be sure to arrive early to reserve a spot, sip hot cocoa, or shop and dine downtown. Free!
November 20
Carol of Lights
Historic Downtown :: GrapevineThis holiday season kick-off features live performances, dazzling dance numbers, and a tree lighting ceremony. Family-friendly fun and food vendors will be there, too! Enjoy fireworks and laser shows at 7:30 and 8:30 p.m. Free!
November 30
Christmas at the Perry
A.W. Perry Homestead Museum :: CarrolltonStroll through the park at the A.W. Perry Homestead Museum for lights and photo ops. Take a tour of the Perry house to see the Victorian Christmas decorations and Santa’s elves at work — they’ve turned a few rooms into workshop areas. Pre-registration is required. Free!
- December 1 – 9
-
December 1
Holiday Home Tour
The Alexander Mansion :: DallasDocent-led group tours meet at the main stair in the foyer of this historic Dallas landmark. Groups leave approximately every half hour. Mark your calendar for next year’s bistro lunch, because this year has already sold out! Tours from $15. Through December 3.
December 2
Christmas in the Branch
Liberty Plaza :: Farmer’s BranchThis tree lighting at Liberty Plaza includes outdoor ice skating, carnival rides, games, face painters, Santa, strolling characters, shopping from local vendors at the Holiday Marketplace at the Grove, and fireworks. Some activities are pay-to-play, but admission is free!
Holiday at the Farm
Samuell Park :: MesquiteJoin Dallas Parks & Rec at Samuell Park for a festive day featuring an artisan gift market, food vendors, a holiday hayride, stage performances, and visits with Santa and Mrs. Clause. Free!
Christmas in the Park
Westlake Park :: MesquiteHead to Westlake Park in Mesquite for games, bounce houses, marshmallow roasting, contests, music and performances on stage, Santa, and more. Some activities are pay-to-play, but admission is free! Through December 3.
Dallas Holiday Parade
Downtown :: DallasWear your most festive red outfits to the 2023 Dallas parade. Check the link for lots more details, including a parade route map. Free!
Reliant Lights Your Holidays
Downtown :: DallasBring your entire family to the AT&T Performing Arts Center for an evening of holiday magic and music. Enjoy live bands, a themed drone show, wintery snow playground, crafts for the kids, and Santa photos. Free with RSVP at the link!
Richardson Christmas Parade
Richardson High School :: RichardsonThe 51st annual parade will be themed A Parade of Misfit Toys. See link for details and trophy categories for participants.
Santa on the Square
The Square :: CarrolltonCelebrate with Santa as he helps light the Historic Downtown Carrollton Square. Enjoy the giant snow globe, reindeer, toy soldiers, crafts, and more. Official tree lighting ceremony to take place at 6:00 p.m. Free!
December 6
Meet Santa’s Reindeer
Bookmarks in Northpark :: DallasThis Dallas Public Library branch located inside of NorthPark Center will host Santa’s reindeer and sleigh, for pictures and story time. Free!
Wreathmaking
Polk-Wisdom Library :: DallasTo infuse your home with festive spirit, why not skip the store and make your own custom wreath? The library will provide the reds, greens and bows. Just bring the holiday cheer! Free!
December 7
Chanukah Menorah Lighting
Galleria :: DallasCelebrate the first night of Chanukah at the Galleria with the large-scale menorah. Located on level one, near Tiffany & Co.
A Garland Christmas on the Square
Downtown :: GarlandCome enjoy the tree lighting ceremony at the newly renovated Garland Square! There will be live music, real reindeer, carolers, a snow hill, inflatables, Santa, and lots more. See details at the link. Free!
Magical Candlelight Christmas-Town 2023
11th Street :: GarlandFestively decorated homes on 11th Street will be open to the public this evening. Stroll the neighborhood and enjoy carolers and musicians on stage, horse-drawn carriage rides, photo ops with Santa and Mrs. Claus, a live Nativity, crafts, and hot cocoa.
December 9
Cityline Merry Market
Cityline :: RichardsonSupport local businesses, enjoy live holiday tunes, and finish all of your holiday shopping in one stop! Head to the Southeast corner of Highway 75 and President George Bush Turnpike for this market, nestled between the State Farm buildings, restaurants, and shops. Free!
Tamales Day
Farmer’s Market :: Dallas‘Tis the season for tamales! Join the fun and celebrate Tamal Day at this tamalada. Corn husk, banana leaf, traditional, vegan, dessert-based, and more flavors and varieties will be available from a variety of curated Hispanic vendors. Free!
Winter Wonderland
White Rock Hills Library :: DallasThe White Rock Hills Branch of the Dallas Public Library will be transformed into a winder wonderland, complete with crafts and activities for the whole family. Free!
- December 10 - 16
-
December 13
Hanukkah Storytime
Bookmarks in Northpark :: DallasCelebrate the season with the Aaron Family JCC for a story time that celebrates Hanukkah! At this Dallas Public Library branch nestled inside of NorthPark Center, families can read a book, sing some songs, and do a craft to celebrate the festival of lights. Free!
December 15 – 17
Holiday Rollerskating
Historic Downtown :: EnnisDust off your roller skates and head to downtown Ennis for some holiday rollerskating. There will be a limited amount of skates provided. The city highly encourages you to bring your own, if you have them. Sunday hours from 2:00 – 6:00 p.m. Free!
December 16
Candlelight at Old City Park
Old City Park :: DallasExperience an old-timey Christmas at Old City Park (it’s back to the original name!) with more than 13 acres of decorated buildings, strolling carolers, craft vendors, food trucks, and crafts for kids. Through December 17.
Christmas in the Park
Fair Park :: DallasThis 25th annual charitable event provides support to the thousands of less fortunate kids and families in our city who are in need of holiday assistance. Find out more info and register (or sign up to volunteer) at the link.
- December 17 - 23
-
December 20
Christmas Storytime
Bookmarks in Northpark :: DallasCelebrate the season at this Dallas Public Library branch nestled inside of NorthPark Center. Read a book, sing some songs, and do a craft to celebrate this season of giving. Free!
- December 24 - 31
-
December 27
Kwanzaa Storytime
Bookmarks in Northpark :: DallasCelebrate the season at this Dallas Public Library branch nestled inside of NorthPark Center! Enjoy storytelling and drums by Percussion Things, and do a craft to celebrate this festival of African American culture and heritage. Free!