Your complete guide to the best Christmas events, lights, and activities across Dallas and surrounding areas
Brandon grew up in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, and I've been coming here since I was a kid—so between us, we've experienced just about every Christmas tradition this city has to offer. Some of our earliest holiday memories happened right here, and after all these years, we still discover new favorites every season. This year, 2025, is shaping up to be one of the most spectacular yet.
Whether you're a longtime Dallas resident looking for something new, a recent transplant trying to find your favorite holiday spots, or visiting family wondering where to create magical memories, this guide is your insider's roadmap to experiencing Dallas Christmas the way we do.
What Makes Dallas Christmas Special?
Let's start with what we love most: Dallas offers mild weather—typically 50-60 degree days—that lets you actually enjoy outdoor activities comfortably. You can stroll through light displays in a light jacket, not a heavy parka.
But it's more than just the weather. Dallas has this unique blend of Southern hospitality, Texas-sized ambition, and sophisticated urban culture that creates holiday experiences you simply can't find anywhere else. Where else can you tour million-dollar estates decorated like something out of a magazine one hour, then enjoy world-class ballet at the Winspear Opera House the next?
Highland Park: The Christmas Lights Epicenter
Highland Park is THE place for Christmas lights in Dallas, and that reputation is completely earned. We've been experiencing this tradition our whole lives, and it never gets old.
Highland Park Village: 1.5 Million Twinkling Lights
Highland Park Village transforms into an enchanted wonderland with over 1.5 million choreographed lights that come on at 5:45 PM sharp.
Official Events:
- December 10th & 11th, 4-7 PM: Christmas Lights Celebration with photos with Santa & Mrs. Claus, face painting, balloon art, Christmas carolers, in-store activations, and community giving opportunities
Getting There:
- We strongly suggest taking an Uber—parking is extremely difficult
- The Village has world-class shopping (over 30 iconic brands) and excellent dining
- 1931 architecture creates an incredibly romantic, European atmosphere
Highland Park Neighborhood Lights: How to Experience Them
Highland Park residents take Christmas decorating seriously. These are professionally designed displays that have been refined over years.
Option 1: Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides
Multiple carriage companies offer rides through Highland Park's decorated streets:
- Brazos Carriage Company: 3811 Turtle Creek Blvd, free parking, rides through December 30th
- Accommodates: 2-10 people
- Cost: $125-$200 depending on package
- Perfect for: Special occasions, proposals, anniversaries, romantic evenings
- Pro tip: Pack warm blankets and hot chocolate to enjoy during your ride
- Booking: Reserve early—weekends book up weeks in advance
Option 2: Drive Through (Our Personal Favorite)
This is what we do most years—it's practical, comfortable, and lets you control your experience:
- Turn on the heater, cue up your favorite Christmas music, and slowly cruise through
- Pack hot chocolate or your favorite holiday beverages
- Pack your patience: This gets VERY crowded, especially on weekends. Traffic moves at a crawl, but embrace it as part of the experience!
- Best times: Weeknights after 7 PM have slightly lighter traffic than Friday/Saturday
Important Reminders:
- This is a residential neighborhood—don't block driveways, keep noise reasonable, be respectful
- Traffic WILL be slow—accept it as part of the experience
- Plan for 1-2 hours depending on how much you want to see
The Famous Grinch House in Preston Hollow
6215 Deloache Avenue in Preston Hollow is Dallas's most viral Christmas house. Massive Whoville characters, towering statues, glowing nutcrackers, reindeer—it's spectacular.
How to Visit Respectfully:
- Best timing: Weeknights after 7 PM (avoid Friday/Saturday)
- Parking: Park on a side street and walk
- Be quick: Snap your photos and keep moving
- Remember: The homeowners do this for community enjoyment, but neighbors didn't sign up for crowds
- Patience is essential: Traffic moves very slowly
Premier Light Displays
Dallas Arboretum: Holidays at the Arboretum
Through January 5, 2026
One of our go-to recommendations—polished, professional, and genuinely beautiful.
What You'll Experience:
- 66 acres transformed with one million lights
- Iconic 12 Days of Christmas Victorian gazebos
- European-inspired Christmas Village
- NEW in 2025: Night Glow - innovative after-dark light installation
Details:
- Cost: Starting at $18 adults, $12 children
- Time: 2.5-3 hours minimum
- Location: 8525 Garland Road, Dallas
- Best time: Weeknight evenings
ICE! at Gaylord Texan: Featuring Elf™
Through January 4, 2026
A true bucket-list experience. Over 2 million pounds of hand-carved ice sculptures in a 9-degree environment.
What's Inside:
- Scenes from "Elf" carved in ice
- Two-story ice slides
- 6,000-square-foot ice skating rink
- Gingerbread decorating corner
Know Before You Go:
- Location: 1501 Gaylord Trail, Grapevine
- Time needed: 1.5-2 hours
- Important: It's literally 9 degrees—bring warm clothes or rent a parka
- Why it's worth it: The artistry is incredible and unforgettable
Christmas in the Square, Frisco
Through January 5, 2026 - 20th Anniversary
What It Is:
- North Texas's largest choreographed lights and music show
- 180,000+ lights, 200 dancing snowflakes, immersive light tunnel
- Real outdoor ice skating rink (additional cost)
- Location: Frisco Square, 8843 Coleman Blvd
- Cost: FREE for light show
Vitruvian Lights, Addison
Through December 31
Stunning FREE display with lights reflecting beautifully on water. Perfect for romantic walks.
- Location: 3966 Vitruvian Way, Addison
CityLine Lights, Richardson
Through January 4
500,000 lights and an 18-foot Christmas tree—completely FREE.
- Location: 1150 State Street, Richardson
Ice Skating Across Dallas
Brand NEW: Main Street Garden Ice Rink
Opens December 4, 2025 - Through January 5, 2026
THE new skating experience—downtown with spectacular Dallas skyline views.
Details:
- Location: 1902 Main Street, Downtown Dallas
- Cost: $18 for 75 minutes (rentals included); Mondays only $9
- Bonus: Rinkside café with hot cocoa
- Perfect for: Twilight skating with skyline views
Skate the Square, Frisco
Through January 5, 2026
The only REAL outdoor ice rink in North Texas (not synthetic), part of Christmas in the Square.
- Location: Frisco Square, 8843 Coleman Blvd
- Reservations: 214-872-1054
Galleria Dallas
Year-Round
Skate beneath the nation's tallest indoor Christmas tree. Watch for "Missile Toes"—a backflipping, firework-shooting Santa!
- Location: 13350 Dallas Parkway, Dallas
Theater & Performances
A Christmas Carol at Dallas Theater Center
Through December 27
Dallas Theater Center's beloved annual tradition with dazzling visuals.
- Venue: Dee & Charles Wyly Theatre, 2400 Flora Street
- The Wyly Theatre itself is architecturally stunning
The Nutcracker by Texas Ballet Theater
Through December 28
Professional dancers, Ben Stevenson's choreography, Tchaikovsky's beloved score.
- Venues: Winspear Opera House (Dallas) or Bass Performance Hall (Fort Worth)
Dallas Symphony Orchestra Holiday Concert
Meyerson Symphony Center
World-class musicians in one of the world's most acoustically perfect concert halls.
- Location: 2301 Flora Street, Dallas
Christmas Tea Around Dallas
One of our favorite holiday traditions! Here are the best spots for Christmas tea:
The French Room at The Adolphus
Reservations Required
The most elegant tea experience in Dallas. Likely booked by now for December, but worth checking!
- Location: 1321 Commerce Street, Dallas
- What to expect: Opulent French Renaissance décor, impeccable service, exquisite pastries
- Perfect for: Special occasions, elegant celebrations
The Zodiac at Neiman Marcus
Reservations Required
An iconic Dallas tradition in the flagship store.
- Location: 1618 Main Street, Dallas
- What to expect: Famous popovers, beautiful presentations, holiday ambiance
- Note: Likely fully booked for December, but check for cancellations
Other Excellent Tea Options:
Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek
- Refined afternoon tea in a luxurious setting
- Location: 2821 Turtle Creek Blvd, Dallas
The Crescent Hotel
- Elegant tea service with seasonal selections
- Location: 400 Crescent Court, Dallas
Saint Ann Restaurant & Bar
- Charming neighborhood spot with afternoon tea
- Location: 2501 N Harwood Street, Dallas
Biscuit Bar
- More casual option with Southern charm
- Multiple DFW locations
Pro tip: Book as far in advance as possible for December dates. Many tea services require 24-48 hours notice, and weekends book quickly during the holidays.
Family Activities
Parades & Tree Lightings
Dallas Holiday Parade - December 6
- Texas's largest one-day outdoor holiday event
- Location: Downtown Dallas | Cost: FREE
Merry Main Street, Frisco - December 6
- Tree lighting, drone show, activities with Santa
- Location: 6101 Frisco Square Blvd | Cost: FREE
Santa Experiences
Santa's Village at Huffhines Park, Richardson December 6-7, 12-14, 19-21 (6-9 PM)
Remarkable FREE experience with professional photos with Santa included!
- Location: 1500 Apollo Road, Richardson
- Special sensory-sensitive Adaptive Night available
Cowboys Christmas Extravaganza at The Star Fridays & Saturdays through December
FREE 20-minute spectacular with Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, 67-foot LED tree, pyrotechnics!
- Location: The Star in Frisco
2+ million lights transforming the zoo.
- Location: 650 S. R. L. Thornton Freeway
Holiday Markets & Shopping Local
Knox Street Holiday Celebration
December 13-14
We live in this neighborhood, so this one is personal! There's something magical about seeing our community come alive with holiday spirit. Whether people walk the Katy Trail to get here or get all dressed up to dine at the fantastic restaurants and shop, it's so much fun to be part of it.
Why We Love It:
The whole weekend has this wonderful energy—neighbors and visitors mixing together, vendors setting up on the sidewalks with unique finds, live music floating through the air. My absolute favorite is stopping by Ralph's Coffee for their hot chocolate—it's become my holiday tradition!
Main Events:
- Santa Paws Photos (FREE, 10 AM-12 PM both days): Bring your dogs!
- Her Story Market: Women-led brands, custom wrapping (Dec 13: 10-6, Dec 14: 10-4)
- "Art on Knox" Pop-Up Gallery: Live painting, emerging artists (10-4 both days)
- Ralph's Coffee Trike: Complimentary hot chocolate and cookies
- Le Bloom Dallas: Floral and wreath market with treats
- Vendors on sidewalks: So many unique finds!
- 30+ Shopping & Dining Offers
- Live Music: All weekend
Our Favorite Restaurants:
- Knox Bistro: Perfect for lunch
- Toulouse: Charming French café
- Taverna: Delicious Mediterranean
The beauty of Knox Street is you can make it whatever kind of day you want—casual stroll on the Katy Trail, browsing the markets, or a dressed-up dining and shopping experience. It's all here, and it's all wonderful.
Dallas Farmers Market Holiday Market
Throughout December, launches November 29
Authentic Dallas vibe with local artisans and amazing food.
- Location: 920 S Harwood Street
- Cost: FREE entry
Grapevine: Christmas Capital of Texas
Grapevine has earned its title with 1,400+ events across 40 days.
Grapevine Parade of Lights - December 4th
North Texas's largest lighted Christmas parade with 100+ brilliantly lit floats.
- Location: Historic Main Street, Grapevine | Cost: FREE
Hometown Christmas Exhibit
Through January 31
FREE immersive exhibition with nostalgic scenes and vintage vignettes.
- Location: 636 S. Main Street, Grapevine
Great Wolf Lodge Snowland
November 24-January 4
All-inclusive holiday vacation with water park, activities, and full festive transformation.
- Location: 100 Great Wolf Drive, Grapevine
Fort Worth: A Western Christmas
Just 30 minutes west, Fort Worth offers unique Western-flavored Christmas.
Fort Worth Stockyards Christmas
Throughout December
Historic district transforms with Western Christmas charm—twinkling lights meet authentic cowboy culture.
- Location: 131 E Exchange Avenue, Fort Worth | Cost: FREE entry
Four Day Weekend Holiday Improv
Throughout December
Smart, funny holiday improv—different every time!
- Venue: 312 Houston Street, Fort Worth
Museum & Cultural Experiences
Trains at NorthPark
November 15-January 4
A Dallas tradition—1,600+ feet of handcrafted track with Dallas landmarks.
- Location: NorthPark Center, Level 1
Free Museums
Dallas Museum of Art - FREE holiday tours
- Location: 1717 N Harwood Street
Nasher Sculpture Center - Elegant holiday atmosphere
- Location: 2001 Flora Street
Perot Museum - Science-themed holiday exhibits
- Location: 2201 N Field Street
Quick Tips
Timing
- Weeknight evenings = smaller crowds
- December 8-21 = peak season
- Book popular experiences weeks ahead
Budget
Many of Dallas's best experiences are completely FREE—Highland Park lights, Vitruvian Lights, parades, museum tours, and more!
Our Personal Favorites
If you're asking what we actually do each year:
- Drive through Highland Park with hot chocolate and Christmas music (and lots of patience!)
- Visit Knox Street during their holiday celebration—it's our neighborhood and we love seeing everyone enjoy it
- The Arboretum at least once—it never gets old
- Ralph's Coffee on Knox Street for hot chocolate—my favorite!
- A theater performance at the Wyly Theatre
- Christmas tea somewhere special
- Discover something new—this year it's the downtown ice rink!
Ready to Experience Dallas Christmas?
After a lifetime of celebrating the holidays here, we still find new experiences to love and traditions that never get old. Dallas Christmas is special, and we hope this guide helps you discover the magic for yourself.
Have questions or need personalized recommendations?
Brandon Hawkins
📱 (214) 206-7778
📧 [email protected]
Tiffany Hawkins
📱 (972) 979-0978
📧 [email protected]
Happy Holidays from Brandon & Tiffany! We hope you have a magical Christmas season experiencing all that Dallas has to offer. 🎄✨
