Our Favorite DFW Activities to Bring the Oohs and Aahs This Holiday Season
Yes, we love Plano, but there are amazing holiday experiences to be found all throughout the Metroplex. Here are our top 10 DFW holiday activities that are sure to please crowds of all ages. Start planning your holiday season now.
Christmas Spectacular at the Star
Christmas Spectacular begins with the lighting of The Star’s 67-foot Christmas tree and leads into a performance showcasing the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, Dallas Cowboys Rhythm and Blue Dancers and Rookie Squad, Dallas Cowboys Drumline, Santa and more.
Nov. 22-Dec. 21. Free admission.
Dickens in Downtown Plano
With live entertainment, strolling carolers, a visit from Santa and a tree lighting ceremony, Dickens is the traditional family event of the season. Be sure to mail a letter to the North Pole or finish shopping for your “Nice” list during Downtown Plano retailers’ extended hours.
Dec. 6. Free admission.
Holiday at the Arboretum
The Dallas Arboretum invites visitors to enjoy Holiday at the Arboretum, featuring 12 Victorian-style gazebos, and the world premiere of the new European style Christmas Village, with more than one million lights throughout the garden.
Nov. 9-Dec. 31. Tickets must be purchased.
Lantern Light at Heritage Farmstead
Step back in time to an old-fashioned Victorian Christmas at Lantern Light. Amid the twinkle of lights and the glow of more than 75 kerosene lanterns, take a wagon ride through the farm, listen to local choirs, tour the historic Farrell-Wilson house and sip on hot cocoa.
Dec. 7. Tickets must be purchased.
Lights at Legacy
Kick off the holiday season at Lights at Legacy. Guests of all ages will enjoy a tree lighting, holiday street performers, free beverage and food samples, plus photos with Santa. Start the day early with a screening of “The Grinch” and free swag bags.
Nov. 24. Free admission.
‘Neath the Wreath Holiday Gift Market
Don’t miss the shopping event of the holiday season. More than 100 vendors will sell jewelry, apparel, edible treats, holiday décor, gadgets and gifts galore at ‘Neath the Wreath, with proceeds benefiting Junior League of Collin County’s charitable endeavors.
Nov. 7-10. Tickets must be purchased.
North Pole Express
Experience the magic of Christmas aboard Grapevine Vintage Railroad’s beautifully decorated North Pole Express. Guests receive cookies and milk, plus a visit by Mrs. Claus, before reaching the North Pole and Santa’s Workshop.
Nov. 29-Dec. 23. Tickets must be purchased.
Plano Christmas Market
Plano Christmas Market is a free shopping event that offers an array of giftable items. But this market specializes in unique, handmade holiday gifts made of fabric, wood, ceramic and glass, as well as a variety of crafts including quilts, baby items, ornaments and more that are sure to become treasured keepsakes.
Nov. 23-24. Free admission.
Scrooge by NTPA
Start a holiday tradition by bringing the whole family to North Texas Performing Arts’ annual performance of “Scrooge.” The musical adaptation of “A Christmas Carol” reminds us to love one another. Sing carols, visit with Santa and enjoy themed treats before the show.
Dec. 13-22. Tickets must be purchased.
Trains at Northpark
This holiday tradition has become a favorite for generations of locals. The Trains at Northpark includes 1,600 feet of track rolling from coast to coast on a whimsical rail journey across America. All proceeds help families at Ronald McDonald House of Dallas.
Nov. 16-Jan. 5. Tickets must be purchased.
