Festive Christmas Things To Do near Dallas, TX this Year (2023)


Your one-stop shop for all things Christmas in DFW in 2023! As someone who grew up in Wisconsin, Christmas meant cold air and snowy grounds. Although Dallas will not be covered in snow and doesn’t quite make the list of the “Most Magical Christmas Destinations“, there are SO many fun Christmas things to do near Dallas to get you in the holiday spirit. This list covers one-time Christmas Events, Christmas plays, Christmas date nights, and of course things to do with the kids this Holiday season near Dallas!

festive Christmas things to do near Dallas tx in 2021 pin

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Christmas Things to do near Dallas, TX (Ongoing Events)

Holiday at the Arboretum

  • What? Walk around the gardens 66+ acres and admire the beautifully decorated Gazebos, Christmas Village, 50-ft Music tree, and of course millions of Christmas Lights. Santa even makes special appearance so be sure to check the calendar out!
  • When? Nightly from November 9–December 31
  • Cost: Night admission ranges from 12-13 dollars for adults and 10-11 for children + parking.
  • Address: 8525 Garland Road, Dallas, Texas 75218

Holiday in the Park at Six Flags

christmas decorations at six flags
  • What?: All the fun and thrill of the rides + lights, a Christmas village (with Santa), nightly Tree lighting, Festive snacks, and Holiday shows.
  • When? Select Dates and times from November 19th-January 2nd.
  • Cost: from 35 dollars + parking.
  • Physical Address: 2201 E Road to Six Flags St, Arlington, TX 76011

ICE! featuring “Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas!”

  • What? Explore your favorite scenes and characters from The Grinch…all made of ice! + many of other fun icy festivities
  • When? November 19, 2021 – January 2, 2022
  • Cost: From 15 to 32 dollars depending on the day. Buy your tickets here!
  • Physical Address: 1501 Gaylord Trail Grapevine, TX 76051

Downtown Grapevine

  • What? After exploring the magical land of ICE at The Gaylord, be sure to check out the lights in Downtown Grapevine as well! It’s known as the Christmas Capitol of Texas with over 40 days of Christmas events. Aside from the events, you can always stroll down the historic Main Street to shop and admire the Christmas Decor. A perfect place to support small business and get your Christmas Shopping done!
  • When? Nov-Jan
  • Cost: Free to wander
  • Physical Address: Main St, Grapevine, TX 76051

Highland Park Carriage Ride

horse drawn carriage ride through christmas lights
  • What? The homeowners in Highland park always have their homes BEAUTIFULLY decorated. You can drive your own car around and marvel a the lights, BUT a horse-drawn carriage is MUCH more fun!
  • When? November and December
  • Cost: Starts at 168+ for a 4 person carriage. See more prices here!
  • Physical Address: 3811 Turtle Creek blvd. Dallas TX 75219

North Pole Express Train

  • What? All aboard the most festive train yet! Help Mrs. Claus get Santa to the North Pole while enjoying warm Christmas cookies and milk + ring your very own souvenier magic bell!
  • When? Nov. 26, 27, 28, 29, 30 and Dec. 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23
  • Cost: Starts at $35.00 per person
  • Physical Address: 705 S. Main St Grapevine, TX See Parking information here
white christmas lights

Chocolate and Sips Tour

  • What? What is better than Christmas lights, chocolate, and festive drinks? During this tour, you’ll hop onto a bus (with other fun adults) and check out some of Dallas’s best dessert venues and light displays.
  • When? December 2nd- Dec 30th
  • Cost: 53+ dollars- Buy your tickets here!
  • Physical Address: Location is given after purchasing a ticket.

The Nutcracker Ballet

things to do dfw for christmas- nutcracker ballet
  • What? The timeless ballet preformed at Winspear Opera House
  • When? Select Dates in November and December. View them here.
  • Cost: Starts at $25.00
  • Physical Address: 2403 Flora St, Dallas, TX 75201

Lights on the Farm

  • What? Heritage Farmstead Museum in Plano is transformed into a winter wonderland. Walk the trail, make some smores, and even visit with Santa.
  • When? Weekends from November 26th-December 26th.
  • Cost: $10.00 for kids, $15.00 for adults.
  • Physical Address: 1900 W 15th Street Plano, TX 75075 

Christmas things to do near Dallas, TX (One Time Events)

Christmas in the Stockyards

cowboy hat with christmas decor at Fort Worth Stockyards
  • What? The ultimate Texas Christmas Celebration is complete with a cowboy Santa, and a parade at 4 pm!
    When? December 7th
  • Cost: Free!
  • Physical Address: 131 E. Exchange Ave. Fort Worth, TX 76164 See more details here!

Christmas Carol Play

  • What? A magical Christmas musical with beautiful decorations, songs, and dance.
  • When? November 30th- December 30th
  • Cost: Starts at $34.00 and up. See more details here!
  • Physical Location: AT&T Preforming Arts Center, Dallas, TX

Dallas Holiday Parade

  • What? Bands, Dance groups, floats, Santa, and more! A sure way to get you in the Christmas Spirit!
  • When? December 2nd at 10:00 am
  • Cost: Free, but guaranteed seats start at $25.00
  • Physical Address: Parade begins at Commerce and Houston street in Dallas, TX

Klyde Warren Tree Lighting

  • What? This outdoor downtown park will be hosting an afternoon of festive fun! With photos with Santa, kids games, crafts, and even live shows!
  • When? December 2nd from 3-6 pm
  • Cost? Free!
  • Physical Address: 1909 Woodall Rodgers Freeway Suite 403 Dallas, TX 75201

12 Bars of Christmas

ugly christmas sweater bar crawl in Dallas Tx
  • What? Wear your favorite ugly sweater and walk around Dallas to the participating Bars with festive drink specials.
  • When? December 9th 12-8pm
  • Cost? $16.00 registration fee + drink cost
  • Physical Address: 2908 McKinney Ave, Dallas, TX

Breakfast with Santa Boyd Farm

beakfast with Santa

Looking for more things to do during your Dallas Getaway? Be sure to check out this EPIC list of 31 Adventurous things to do in DFW!

Where to Stay during Christmas season near Dallas?

If you are visiting from out of town and are looking for the MOST FESTIVE stay, I would recommend staying right in Grapevine. Grapevine is the Christmas Capital of Texas so you will likely be paying a lot more. If looking for a more budget-friendly option (yet still close to the action) check out hotels in Dallas or Arlington!

Booking.com

What else would you add to this MOST FESTIVE list of Christmas Things to do near Dallas?

Jordan

Hey hey! I'm Jordan, a full-time elementary teacher with a side of freelance writing/travel blogging. As much as I LOVE to travel, I also enjoy routine, being home, and sleeping in my own cozy bed. Anyone else?  Enter...weekend getaways! I'm hoping you find this to be your one-stop-shop to plan your next USA weekend trip (with or without your pup).

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