Get ready for the holiday season in Fort Worth and the surrounding areas with our ultimate guide to festive events! From enchanting light displays and magical theater performances to holiday concerts, ballet, and Santa sightings, we’ve gathered all the best ways to celebrate this season. Whether you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of Santa, soak in some holiday tunes, or experience classic Christmas performances, you’ll find it all here. When you’re ready, click one of the buttons below to explore and make this holiday season truly unforgettable!
Celebrate the Holidays – STOCKYARDS STYLE
Make the Fort Worth Stockyards your home for the holidays! Rodeo Rink, Santa’s Arrival on Nov 29, Santa’s North Pole Express Train Ride, The Polar Express
Cliburn Family Concert Series, Photos with Santa, Story Time with Mrs. Claus, the Christmas in the Stockyards Parade on November 30
& So Much More!
https://fortworthstockyards.com/events/celebrate-the-holidays-stockyards-style-2/
Saddle Up For Cowboy Santa’s Arrival & Stockyards Tree Lighting
Friday, November 29
COWBOY SANTA’S GRAND ARRIVAL PARADE AND TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY ON EAST EXCHANGE AVE! Cowboy Santa arrival at 11:30am and Tree Lighting at 6pm.
https://fortworthstockyards.com/events/saddle-up-for-cowboy-santa/
Photos with Santa Claus and Story Time with Mrs. Claus
November 29 – December 24
Photos with Cowboy Santa
Skip the line and book an appointment for photos with Cowboy Santa! Perfect for children, families, couples and even pets! Several packages available including both print and digital. Walk-ins also welcome.
Photos With Santa
Every Tuesday – Sunday, Nov 29 – Dec 24 | 11AM-7PM
Christmas Eve | 11AM-4PM
Story Time with Mrs. Claus
Round up the kiddos as Mrs. Claus reads everyone’s favorite holiday stories! Located in Cowboy Santa’s Workshop.
Every Friday – Sunday, November 29 – Dec 15 & Dec 20 – 24
Story Times: 12:30PM, 1:30PM, 2:30PM & 3:30PM
‘Twas The Night Before Christmas
Casa Manana | November 29-December 23
Molly is having trouble finding her Christmas spirit. Determined to make it a Christmas to remember, Molly’s mother takes her on a magical treasure hunt through New York City from Radio City Music Hall to Macy’s, where they encounter dancing elves and even Santa Claus himself! Featuring holiday parodies of today’s most popular songs, this yuletide spectacular is sure to put you in the holiday spirit! This show is suitable for all audiences.
https://casamanana.org/events/twas/
A Tuna Christmas
Casa Manana | November 9-17
It’s 24 hours before Christmas and all comic hell is about to break loose! Tuna’s delightfully eccentric characters return to Casa Mañana and attempt to cope with seasonal traumas, like a disaster-prone little theatre production of A Christmas Carol and a yard decorating contest that’s being sabotaged by a mysterious Christmas phantom. This hilarious sequel to Greater Tuna once again follows the weird and wacky inhabitants of Tuna, a fictional town in Texas, through a cast of just two actors! This show is suitable for most audiences..
https://casamanana.org/events/a-tuna-christmas/
Fort Worth Stockyards Rodeo Rink
November 18 – January 5
Get ready to giddy up and glide!
Ice skating Stockyards style returns for seven weeks of frozen fun and spectacular holiday lights November 18-January 5. The rink will open daily and offer a choice of up to six, 90-minute skating sessions. Snacks and beverage bar, fire pits, music, and picnic seating are also available.
PRICING (SKATE RENTAL INCLUDED)
Kids | $20
Adults | $25
Family & Friends Four Pack | $80
https://fortworthstockyards.com/events/stockyards-rodeo-rink/
Dr. Seuss How the Grinch Stole Christmas
Bass Performance Hall | November 19 – 24
- SEUSS’ HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS! THE MUSICAL features the hit songs “You’re A Mean One Mr. Grinch” and “Welcome Christmas” (written by Albert Hague and Dr. Seuss) from the original animated series. Max the Dog narrates as the mean and scheming Grinch, whose heart is “two sizes too small,” decides to steal Christmas away from the Holiday loving Whos. Magnificent sets (John Lee Beatty) and costumes (Robert Morgan) inspired by Dr. Seuss’ original illustrations help transport audiences to the whimsical world of Whoville, while the Music and Book of Mel Marvin and Timothy Mason breathe new life into this timeless story of the true meaning of Christmas. The 2024 production is directed by Matt August and choreographed by Bob Richard based on the original choreography by John DeLuca and originally created by 3-time Tony Award® winning director, Jack O’Brien.
FWSO presents Home for the Holidays
Bass Performance Hall | November 29 & 30
Santa’s marking up his list and setting his sleigh’s course for Bass Performance Hall! In this season of joy and togetherness, music-lovers young and old are invited to join in the city’s greatest caroling session in the city. The Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra’s holiday favorite, “Home for the Holidays” concert, features a collection of favorite holiday tunes and a visit from ol’ Kris Kringle himself. Guaranteed to bring a smile to the entire family!
https://fwsymphony.org/concerts-tickets/24-25-season/pops-series/home-for-the-holidays
Apex Arts League presents Nutcracker Short & Suite
White’s Chapel, Southlake | December 1
The first, “Nutcracker, Short and Suite”, wraps up within an hour which is perfect for jittery kiddos or teens eager to get back on Snapchat. This remarkable ballet performance is a joint production with Apex Arts League and Avant Chamber Ballet on Sunday, December 1.
https://www.apexartsleague.com/
Holidays with the UNT One O’Clock Jazz Band
David McDavid Studio | December 6
Jazz up your holidays with the University of North Texas’ One O’Clock Lab Band! The Grammy®-nominated jazz ensemble returns to the intimate McDavid Studio for its annual “Holidays with the One O’Clock” concert. Celebrate the yuletide season as the One O’Clock’s big band takes on all of your favorite holiday anthems.
Christmas with Kenny & Dolly
Casa Manana Reid Cabaret | December 3 – 24
Christmas with Kenny & Dolly celebrates the pair’s 1984 quadruple-platinum Christmas album and brings the holiday spirit to The Reid Cabaret. Fort Worth’s own Jolie Holliday returns to The Reid Cabaret Theatre to sing the music Billboard said “sparkles with warmth.” A night of jolly duets will get you in the spirit of the season with country music charm. Featuring “Once Upon a Christmas,” “I Believe in Santa Claus,” “A Christmas to Remember,” “Silent Night” and more. This show is suitable for most audiences.
https://casamanana.org/events/kenny-and-dolly/
Jubilee Theatre presents Auntie Explains X-Mas
WE Scott Theatre at Arts Fort Worth | December 6-15
Get ready to be swept away on a heartwarming journey of holiday cheer with Founding Artistic Director Rudy Eastman’s Auntie Explains X-Mas at Jubilee Theatre. This delightful family musical brings the magic of Christmases past and present. Filled with laughter, love, and timeless traditions, the play captures the essence of what makes the holiday season so special. With toe-tapping music, unforgettable chracters, and a message of unity and joy, Auntie Explains Christmas is sure to become a cherished holiday tradition for audiences of all ages. Join us as we celebrate the spirit of the season and create memories that will last a lifetime. https://www.jubileetheatre.org/show/auntie-explains-xmas/
FWSO presents Disney Frozen in Concert
Will Rogers Auditorium | December 12 & 13
FILM WITH LIVE ORCHESTRA
Fearless optimist, Princess Anna, sets off on an epic journey – teaming up with rugged mountain man, Kristoff, and his loyal reindeer Sven – to find her sister Elsa, whose icy powers have trapped the kingdom of Arendelle in eternal winter. Encountering Everest-like conditions, mystical trolls, and a hilarious snowman named Olaf, Anna and Kristoff battle the elements in a race to save the kingdom. Voices include Kristen Bell (Anna), Jonathan Groff (Kristoff), Idina Menzel (Elsa), Josh Gad (Olaf), Santino Fontana (Hans), Alan Tudyk (Duke of Weselton). The film received the Academy® Award for Best Animated Feature.
https://fwsymphony.org/concerts-tickets/24-25-season/specials/frozen-in-concert
Holidays with the UNT One O’Clock Band
McDavid Studio | December 1
Jazz up your holidays with the University of North Texas’ One O’Clock Lab Band! The Grammy®-nominated jazz ensemble returns to the intimate McDavid Studio for its annual “Holidays with the One O’Clock” concert. Celebrate the yuletide season as the One O’Clock’s big band takes on all of your favorite holiday anthems.
Ballet Frontier of Texas presents The Nutcracker
IM Terrell Performing Arts Center | December 6-8
Join Ballet Frontier for the magic of The Nutcracker this holiday season!
Ballet Frontier has been captivating audiences with our production of The Nutcracker for the last 12 years. With its cast comprised of professional dancers, talented young students, dazzling costumes, and world-class choreography, the stage is set for an unforgettable holiday experience for all ages!
https://www.balletfrontier.org/the-nutcracker
FWSO presents Sounds of the Season
White’s Chapel Methodist Church | Tuesday, December 17
The Sounds of the Season concert has become a beloved Southlake family tradition, captivating audiences with a delightful blend of holiday classics. Attendees can expect to be transported into the magical world of the Nutcracker, experience the joy of Sleigh Ride, and participate in a heartwarming Holly Jolly sing-along, among other festive musical selections.
Bring your loved ones and immerse yourself in the joyous melodies that will leave you with cherished memories. Get ready to be swept away by the Sounds of the Season!
In partnership with APEX Arts League.
https://fwsy mphony.org/concerts-tickets/24-25-season/specials/sounds-of-the-season
TBT Presents the Nutcracker
Bass Performance Hall (Fort Worth) | December 13 – December 29
Winspear Opera House (Dallas) | November 29 – December 8
The Nutcracker
A Vision of Merriment and Delight
Since its first performance in 1892, Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker has evoked the wonder and joy of the holiday season. You will want to make Ben Stevenson’s spectacular production of this perennial favorite part of your holiday tradition.
https://texasballettheater.org/performance/nutcracker-2024/#buytickets
Christmas Specials at Arlington Music Hall
December 5: Christmas with the Celts
December 10: David Archuleta, A Festive Evening
December 13: Blue Christmas Elvis Tribute with Victor Trevino
December 14: Christmas with the Peterson’s
December 22: Jesus & Mike on the Little Donkey
https://arlingtonmusichall.org/
Winter Market & Snowflake Station
SiNaCa Studios | December 15
Join us at SiNaCa Studios – School of Glass and Gallery for our Winter Market & Snowflake Station event! Get into the festive spirit and explore our in-person market, featuring a wide array of unique crafts, handmade gifts, and local artisanal products. Whether you’re looking for a special present or simply want to soak up the holiday atmosphere, our Winter Market has something for everyone.
So mark your calendars and join us at SiNaCa Studios – School of Glass and Gallery for a day filled with shopping, creativity, and holiday cheer. We can’t wait to welcome you to our Winter Market!
We are busy getting our Winter Market and Snowflake station stocked full of goodies.
https://sinacastudios.org/explore/events/winter-market-snowflake-station/
ARLINGTON
Arlington Holiday of Lights Parade
Saturday, December 14, 6:00pm
Bring your friends and family to enjoy the Annual Holiday Lights Parade. Thousands of people will gather for the pageantry which is followed by the lighting of the Christmas tree.
Don’t forget to bring your camera and take a picture with Santa before the parade at the Library at 100 S Center Street or after the tree lighting at the Founders Plaza at 100 W Abram Street.
Parade will continue as planned rain, snow, or shine… but not ice!
https://holidaylightsparade.com/
Holiday in the Park at Six Flags over Texas
November 19 – January 1 | (select evenings)
Holiday in the Park is back! ‘Tis the season for glittering lights, delicious snacks, and a festive spin on your favorite rides.
Gather around for the nightly tree lighting show you’ll never forget! Each night, millions of lights are illuminated at once by Santa in a magical moment. For the little elves in your family, head over to the Merry Marketplace to meet Santa Claus! After meeting Santa, venture into Casa Magnetica and celebrate Nochebuena in our unique tilted house attraction.
Try to catch a glimpse of Santa’s reindeer as you soar 400 feet in the air on Texas SkyScreamer or fly head over heels on BATMAN: The Ride. Make a New Year’s Resolution to experience more thrills on HARLEY QUINN Spinsanity, a giant whirling wheel of adventure to kick 2024 off right! For the little ones looking for less thrills, take a merry ride on the Silver Star Christmas Carousel.
https://www.sixflags.com/overtexas/events/holiday-in-the-park-2024
MANSFIELD
Hometown Holidays Mansfield, Texas
Mansfield City Hall | December 6, 5pm-9pm
Join us at City Hall for our annual tree lighting!
The fun kicks off at 5:00 p.m. The tree lighting ceremony will be at 6:30 p.m.
https://www.mansfieldhometownholidays.com/
GRAND PRAIRIE
Christmas Specials at Texas Trust CU Theatre
December 14: Derek Hough Dance for the Holidays
December 19: Michael Martin Murphey’s Cowboy Christmas
December 20: Jonathon McReynolds Red & Green Tour
https://www.texastrustcutheatre.com/events/
GRAPEVINE
Grapevine: The Christmas Capitol of Texas
It’s more merry in Grapevine, as it’s the Christmas Capital of Texas®! Bring your family and friends to the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex to create wonderful Christmas memories that you’ll cherish forever. Grapevine offers some of the most magical moments of the season and we invite you to experience it all!
With more than 1,400 festive Christmas events over 40 days, there is fun for everyone! Enjoy millions of lights, larger-than-life decorations, animated characters, photo ops galore and so much more.
Don’t know where to start? Here are some ideas for how to spend your time in the Christmas Capital of Texas.
https://www.grapevinetexasusa.com/christmas-capital-of-texas/
GRANBURY
The New Granbury Live Christmas Concerts 2024
December 7: Elvis Christmas with Kraig Parker
December 8: Sarah Reeves presents “More the Merrier Live”
December 12: William Lee Martin, The Nuttier Cracker
December 14: Michael Hix Christmas Party
December 20: Seger System, Bob Seger Tribute to Christmas Special
December 21: Johnny Rogers as Buddy Holly & More, “A Rockin’ Blue Christmas”
December 31: Midnight in Manhattan, the Michael Hix NYE Live Spectacular
https://thenewgranburylive.com/shows/
Saddle Up For Cowboy Santa’s Arrival & Stockyards Tree Lighting
Friday, November 29
COWBOY SANTA’S GRAND ARRIVAL PARADE AND TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY ON EAST EXCHANGE AVE! Cowboy Santa arrival at 11:30am and Tree Lighting at 6pm.
https://fortworthstockyards.com/events/saddle-up-for-cowboy-santa/
Parade of Lights – Downtown Fort Worth
The GM Financial Parade of Lights starts at 6:00 PM on Sunday, November 24 at the intersection of Weatherford and Throckmorton Streets. The parade will proceed east along Weatherford Street, turns south on Commerce and goes all the way to 9th Street. At 9th Street the parade turns west, then past the Convention Center to Houston St., and north on Houston Street to 2nd St. The final turns for the parade are west on 2nd St. to Throckmorton Street, and south to 3rd St. where the parade ended.
Bring your family early in the day to celebrate Downtown, enjoy the pre-parade music and displays, and make a day of it. Avoid the crowds by parking early and enjoy lunch at a variety of great restaurants and take advantage of some early bird shopping deals at our Downtown retailers. The parade takes place rain or shine!
https://www.dfwi.org/do/gm-financial-parade-of-lights
The Modern Lights at The Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth
November 29 – February 9
The Modern trees are illuminated with an array of festive lights in celebration of the holiday season. Passersby experience a stunning display, and visitors are invited to enjoy evening viewing opportunities. The museum galleries are open with free admission until 8 pm on Fridays.
https://www.themodern.org/modern-lights
Lightscape
Fort Worth Botanic Garden | Nov 22 – Jan 5
Create unforgettable memories with family and friends!
Join us at the stunning Fort Worth Botanic Garden for the third annual Lightscape event, a spectacular collaboration with Sony Music. This extraordinary show features custom-designed light installations set against the serene backdrop of nature, creating a festive atmosphere that will enchant guests of all ages. Stroll along sparkling pathways and marvel at breathtaking, never-before-seen artistic displays from around the globe, immersing yourself in the magic of the holiday season.
Event Highlights:
- Dazzling Light Displays: Stroll through millions of twinkling lights that transform the garden into a winter wonderland. ❄ More than 80% of the trail is new this year, featuring an ideal blend of exciting new installations and beloved favorites to enjoy.
- Food and Beverages: Savor seasonal treats 🍂 and warm beverages ☕ from local vendors.
- Santa Nights: Join us for a chance to meet Santa Claus 🎅 and create unforgettable family photos. Santa Night dates are Nov. 29, Nov. 30, Dec. 6, Dec. 7, Dec. 13, Dec. 14, Dec. 20, Dec. 21, Dec. 22, Dec. 23 and Dec. 24
Gift of Lights at Texas Motor Speedway
November 28 – January 5
Fill up your car, truck, or SUV and drive through millions of lights at Texas Motor Speedway. An incredible drive-thru holiday experience filled with magic and wonder
– Friday – Saturday: 6pm – 10pm
– Sunday – Thursday: 6pm – 9pm
Arlington Holiday Lights Parade
Saturday, December 10 6pm
https://holidaylightsparade.com/
Arlington Interlochen Lights
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Arlington-Interlochen-Lights/1857729784438909
Prairie Lights in Grand Prairie
Thanksgiving Night through New Year’s Eve
Open Every Night at 6pm
Prairie Lights is the premier holiday light park in Texas located at Lynn Creek Park on Joe Pool Lake in Grand Prairie, Texas. Prairie Lights 2024 will feature an ALL NEW state-of-the-art light tunnel, a REIMAGINED magical walk-thru forest, CAPTIVATING animated light displays, carnival rides, photos with Santa, holiday shopping, and more!
The Light Park
Hurricane Harbor, Arlington, Texas
Open November 1 thru January 5
Who needs the icy North Pole when you can experience the electrifying vibes at The Light Park? Charge up your holiday spirit as you cruise through millions of dazzling lights, synced perfectly to the rhythm of our festive tunes, courtesy of our very own DJ Polar Ice. Amp up the fun with some tasty treats and zappy beverages, and get ready to be shocked by the sheer brilliance of it all.
DATES & HOURS
Nov 1 – Jan 5: Open Daily
Sundays – Thursdays: 5:30 – 10:00pm
Fridays & Saturdays: 5:30 – 11:00pm
THANKSGIVING WEEK HOURS
Nov 26 – Dec 1: 5:30-11pm
CHRISTMAS WEEK HOURS
Dec 20 – 29: 5:30-11pm
