The holiday season is in full swing, and Dallas is brimming with festive cheer! From dazzling light displays to charming Christmas markets and heartwarming performances, there’s no shortage of ways to make your holidays merry and bright. Whether you’re looking to sip hot cocoa under twinkling lights, take a photo with Santa, or experience the magic of a live holiday show, you’ll find it all here. Don’t miss our roundup of the best holiday events happening in and around Dallas—your perfect seasonal adventure is just a click away!
True North
Magical Holiday Musical
Music Hall at Fair Park |November 15th
Enjoy a magical evening featuring songs from the new holiday musical True North, written by Texas natives and husband-wife duo Kelvin and Holly Reed. Be among the first to hear True North’s captivating new title song along with exciting new arrangements of audience favorites performed by Broadway’s best!
https://broadwaydallas.org/shows/true-north/
The Trains at Northpark
Northpark Center | November 16th – January 5th
TRAINS AT NORTHPARK is a unique, beloved, and visually stunning holiday exhibition featuring a fascinating array of miniature trains rolling across 1,600 feet of track on a journey through Dallas and America’s most iconic cityscapes.
From the youngest children, mesmerized by the colorful locomotives and intricate landscapes, to adults who appreciate the craftsmanship and detail of the model trains, there is something at this dynamic exhibit for everyone to enjoy.
Each season, the display is refreshed with new scenes and features, making it a must-see year after year. We are excited to offer a S.T.E.A.M.-inspired experience and special Sensory Friendly days to the 2024-2025 exhibit!
https://trainsatnorthpark.org/
Holiday in the Park at Six Flags over Texas
November 19th – January 1st (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
Magical Cirque Christmas
Music Hall at Fair Park | November 21st
Embrace the holiday spirit with A MAGICAL CIRQUE CHRISTMAS, a variety show full of nostalgia, charm, and awe-inspiring performances for all ages. Get ready to be dazzled, enchanted, and filled with holiday cheer as you witness the incredible talents of world-class entertainers performing to your favorite holiday music. Celebrate the magic of the season with the entire family at A MAGICAL CIRQUE CHRISTMAS. https://broadwaydallas.org/shows/a-magical-cirque-christmas/
PDT Dance Arts presents The Nutcracker
Eisemann Center, Richardson | November 21st-23rd
https://www.pdtdancearts.com/nutcracker2024
Chamberlain Ballet presents The Nutcracker
Eisemann Center, Richardson | November 29th – December 1st
Add to the festivities of your Thanksgiving weekend by seeing Chamberlain Ballet’s annual holiday classic, The Nutcracker, as we celebrate our 40th Anniversary Season. Join Clara through her magical adventures from the Land of Snow through the whimsical Kingdom of the Sweets. Chamberlain Ballet will be bringing in world class guest artists, Tyler Angle of New York City Ballet and Hee Seo of American Ballet Theatre as our Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier. An exciting addition for our 40th Anniversary is that our shows will be accompanied by the Richardson Symphony Orchestra with performances running Nov. 29th at 7pm, Nov. 30th at 2pm, Nov. 30th at 7pm and Dec. 1st at 2pm at the Eisemann Center for Performing Arts.
https://chamberlainballet.org/
Mariah Carey’s Christmas Time
American Airlines Center | November 21st
https://www.americanairlinescenter.com/events/detail/mariah-carey-1
Camp Christmas
Strauss Square | November 22nd – December 29th
The season’s campiest, quirkiest holiday tradition is here, Camp Christmas! A huge and wildly immersive experience handcrafted by Camp Director Lonnie Hanzon and his band of merry magic makers, Camp Christmas is a dazzling dreamscape of holiday joy. And never fear, you can still add-on an audience with Santa!
Pro Tip: Bring your camera because it’s the type of fun that is just too good not to share with your friends and family!
Round up everybody on your Nice List and come get your spirit on! Don’t take our word for it!
https://attpac.org/campchristmas
Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet
Music Hall at Fair Park | November 23rd
Give the gift of NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet to the whole family. Celebrate America’s favorite Christmas tradition with an international all-star cast that blends world-class ballet with whimsical puppets, lavish costumes, and stunning acrobatics! Share the tradition of pure Holiday magic and Tchaikovsky’s timeless score with friends and family of all ages. Don’t miss this chance to create memories of a lifetime.
https://broadwaydallas.org/shows/nutcracker-magical-christmas-ballet/
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/
TBT Presents the Nutcracker
Winspear Opera House (Dallas), November 29th – December 8th
Bass Performance Hall (Fort Worth), December 13th – December 29th
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 Texas Trust CU Theatre (Grand Prairie)
December 14th: Derek Hough Dance for the Holidays
December 19th: Michael Martin Murphey’s Cowboy Christmas
December 20th: Jonathon McReynolds Red & Green Tour
https://www.texastrustcutheatre.com/events/
A Christmas Carol
Dallas Theater Center | November 29th – December 28th
Three spirits have come to visit the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge and take him on a fantastic journey through Christmases past, present, and future. Brimming with joyful songs, magical spirits, and holiday cheer, this holiday classic embodies a story of joy, redemption, and the spirit of Christmas.
https://dallastheatercenter.org/shows/a-christmas-carol-2024/
Black Nativity
Bishop Arts Theatre | December 5th – 22nd
Inspired by Langston Hughes’s 1960 Broadway production, Black Nativity returns with hand Clapping, toe-tapping, and finger-snapping theatrical wonderment for our 20th anniversary. This holiday favorite is the heartwarming retelling of the Nativity story including Gospel music, dramatic dance, and biblical narrative.
https://bishopartstheatre.org/event/black-nativity-2/
Dallas Symphony Orchestra presents Christmas Pops
Morton H Meyerson Symphony Center | December 6th – 22nd
Come enjoy the glorious sounds of the season with your DSO, the magnificent Dallas Symphony Chorus and Children’s Chorus, and fantastic vocalists Capathia Jenkins — actress, Broadway, TV and movie star — and Ryan Shaw, three-time GRAMMY®-nominated artist — all joining together to perform your favorite seasonal songs, carols, and thrilling choruses. And guess who else will be there to help spread the cheer? That jolly old elf, of course! It’s holiday magic for the entire family!
https://www.dallassymphony.org/productions/christmas-pops-3/
Dallas Symphony Orchestra presents Family Christmas Pops
Morton H Meyerson Symphony Center | December 7th – 14th
Experience a special one-hour performance of Christmas Pops with the whole family! Come to the Meyerson before the show for arts and crafts, an instrument petting zoo and photos with Santa. Featuring three-time GRAMMY®-nominated artist Ryan Shaw and Broadway star Capathia Jenkins with the Dallas Symphony Children’s Chorus, you won’t want to miss it.
https://www.dallassymphony.org/productions/family-christmas-pops-2/
Dallas Holiday Parade
Downtown Dallas | Saturday, December 7, 2024
The Dallas Holiday Parade is the City’s largest one-day, outdoor event. More than 350 television stations in 159 markets have syndicated the parade. It has become a holiday tradition for thousands of families throughout North Texas and coast to coast.
https://dallasholidayparade.com/
Reliant Lights Your Holidays
Sammons Park | December 7th, 5:30pm
Bring your entire family for an exciting evening of holiday magic and music, as Reliant lights up the entire AT&T Performing Arts Center campus! This is the 12th annual free festival including an abundance of wonderful holiday events for all ages.
https://attpac.org/event/reliant-lights-your-holidays-2024
Grand Holiday Ice Show
Galleria Dallas | December 8th
Celebrate the holidays with us at Galleria Dallas for their Grand Holiday Ice Show! Enjoy a breakfast buffet, face painting, and other family-friendly activities. Then, experience the magnificent ice skating show with your family and friends from your private pod overlooking the Galleria’s ice rink.
All proceeds from this event will support our Give A Kid A Seat fundraising campaign which provides free Broadway show tickets to underserved students in our community.
Each pod (located on levels 1, 2 & 3) holds up to 6 people. Pods are limited and will be assigned on a first come first serve basis. Reserve yours today or donate a pod for a deserving family to enjoy!
https://broadwaydallas.org/shows/grand-holiday-ice-show/
Hear the Angels Voices
Morton H Meyerson Symphony Center | December 9th
Step into the true spirit of Christmas with “Hear the Angel Voices,” presented by Millennial® Choirs & Orchestras. As hundreds of youth and adults unite their voices in song, including a breathtaking rendition of “O Holy Night,” this evening of reverence and joy will draw your heart to the deeper meaning of the season. Be moved by timeless carols, soul-stirring contemporary pieces, and magnificent orchestral arrangements that honor the birth of our Savior. “Hear the Angel Voices” is more than just a concert—it’s an invitation to reflect on the miracle of Christ’s birth and to feel the peace, hope, and love that Christmas brings. Join us for this unforgettable night of worship and celebration.
https://www.dallassymphony.org/productions/hear-the-angels-sing/
Kings ReJOYCE
Morton H Meyerson Symphony Center | December 11th
Join us for an extraordinary musical celebration this holiday season with “KINGS ReJOYCE!” Experience the magic of multi-Grammy Award-winning mezzo-soprano Joyce DiDonato joining forces with the sensational four-voice vocal group, Kings Return. This special Holiday program promises a delightful blend of sacred and secular repertoire, celebrating the unique way vocal music brings us home for the holidays. Alongside the brilliant pianist Craig Terry, immerse yourself in the joy of the season as you are uplifted by timeless classics and contemporary favorites. Say “YES” to this incredible vocal feast for the Holidays: it’s sure to become an instant classic.
https://www.dallassymphony.org/productions/joyce-didonato-kings-return/
Dallas Black Dance Academy presents Espresso Nutcracker
Majestic Theatre | December 14th
Sugar, spice and a dash of everything nice come together for Dallas Black Dance Academy’s production of Espresso Nutcracker! The Majestic Theatre’s stage will be transformed into a winter wonderland in this whimsical reimagining that’s perfect for children and adults alike. This family friendly hour-long production is sure to leave you dancing in your dreams with sugarplum fairies.
https://dbdt.com/season-calendar/espresso-nutcracker/
An Evening with Gregory Porter
2024 Holiday Tour – Winspear Opera House | December 16th
Gregory Porter released his first-ever Christmas album titled “Christmas Wish” last year as a tribute to his favorite time of year and to music legends including Stevie Wonder, Ella Fitzgerald, Marvin Gaye, Dinah Washington and Nat King Cole. Backed by his long-time band and produced by repeat collaborator Troy Miller, the album features inspired interpretations of carols, standards, and soulful sixties deep-cuts including “Silent Night,” “Little Drummer Boy,” Marvin Gaye’s “Purple Snowflakes,” Stevie Wonder’s “Someday At Christmas,” and Frank Loesser’s “What Are You Doing New Year’s Eve?,” which features a special guest appearance by GRAMMY-winning vocalist Samara Joy. In addition to Christmas classics, Porter has added three original tracks to the album, including the first single “Everything’s Not Lost.”
https://attpac.org/event/gregory-porter?pid=65424
A Soulful Christmas with Tye Tribbett
Winspear Opera House | December 17th
Tye Tribbett has had a legendary career and his saga has stayed on that trajectory these past two years culminating most recently having earned the 2024 Best Gospel Album GRAMMY Award for his release of All Things New: Live In Orlando. This momentous news marked the second time he has won the award and brings his career total wins to three. He is globally known for his charismatic, dynamic personality, and range — from delivering high-energy praise songs to intimate worship moments and even African rhythms to trap beats. His music cannot be classified as just one genre, but his unique, abstract way encompasses all, which has helped him garner many awards and accolades, including now three GRAMMY® wins (and now thirteen GRAMMY® nominations), six #1 albums, four #1 digital tracks, five #1 radio singles, and eleven Billboard Top 10 songs.
https://attpac.org/event/a-soulful-christmas-with-tye-tribbett?pid=66466
Brassy Christmas at Stonebriar
Stonebriar Community Church, Frisco | December 17th
Deck the halls with the DSO brass and percussion sections. This Dallas Symphony tradition returns to make your holidays merry and bright with an extra helping of Christmas cheer!
Please note this concert takes place at Stonebriar Community Church.
https://www.dallassymphony.org/productions/brassy-christmas/
Dallas Winds presents Christmas at the Meyerson
Morton H Meyerson Symphony Center | December 17th & 23rd
https://dallaswinds.org/2024-25-season/
Drag Queen Christmas
Music Hall at Fair Park | December 18th
Murray & Peter Present “A Drag Queen Christmas” 10th Anniversary Tour hosted by Nina West on Wednesday December 18, 2024 @ 8pm at Music Hall at Fair Park. It’s the longest running drag tour in America. Get ready for your favorite queens performing live on stage. We’ve got Winners, Fan Favorites, Legends, and Miss Congeniality, plus queens from Season 16 and All Stars 9. VIP Meet & Greet tickets are available. The M&G starts at 6pm. The show starts at 8pm. There will be a 20-minute intermission. This event is 18 and up. Check DragFans.com for the cast performing in your city.
https://broadwaydallas.org/shows/a-drag-queen-christmas/
Elf in Concert with Dallas Symphony Orchestra
Morton H Meyerson Symphony Center | December 20th – 22nd
Buddy was accidentally transported to the North Pole as a toddler, and raised among Santa’s elves. This holiday season Buddy travels to New York—with a live symphony orchestra! Celebrate the film’s 20th anniversary and experience John Debney’s wonderful score as the full film plays on the big screen.
https://www.dallassymphony.org/productions/elf-in-concert-with-film/
Pentatonix, Hallelujah It’s A Christmas Tour
American Airlines Center | December 22nd
https://www.americanairlinescenter.com/events/detail/pentatonix-1
Blind Boys of Alabama Christmas Show
Winspear Opera House | December 23rd
The Blind Boys of Alabama are recognized worldwide as living legends of gospel music. Celebrated by The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) and The Recording Academy/GRAMMYs with Lifetime Achievement Awards, inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, and winners of six GRAMMY® Awards, they have attained the highest levels of achievement in a career that spans over 70 years. The Blind Boys are known for crossing multiple musical boundaries with their remarkable interpretations of everything from traditional gospel favorites to contemporary spiritual material by songwriters such as Eric Clapton, Prince, and Tom Waits. They have appeared on recordings with many artists, including Lou Reed, Peter Gabriel, Bonnie Raitt, Willie Nelson, Aaron Neville, Susan Tedeschi, Ben Harper, Patty Griffin, and Taj Mahal.
https://attpac.org/event/blind-boys-of-alabama?pid=65633
Yippee Ki Yay (the parody celebration of Die Hard)
Wylie Studio Theatre | December 26th–29th
Acclaimed retelling of classic film Die Hard from Richard Marsh – Fringe First-winner, London poetry slam champion, BBC Audio Drama Best Scripted Comedy Drama award-winner and New York cop (one of these is untrue). This joyfully funny show returns to the USA following its hit 2023 debut.
When gunmen seize an LA skyscraper, off-duty policeman John McClane is the hostages’ only hope. This uplifting action romp (and unauthorised parody) celebrates the iconic 80s festive favourite while also telling the personal story of a life-long Die Hard fan. Essential viewing for Hans Gruber connoisseurs and newcomers alike.
https://attpac.org/event/yippee-ki-yay?pid=65684
Trans-Siberian Orchestra
Lost Christmas Eve Tour – American Airlines Center | December 28th
https://www.americanairlinescenter.com/events/detail/trans-siberian-orchestra-5
Grand Kyiv Ballet Presents The Snow Queen
Winspear Opera House | December 30th
For the 2024 season, the Grand Kyiv Ballet is preparing a surprise for our viewers. Their new Christmas ballet “The Snow Queen” is based on the world-famous fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen. This fascinating romantic story set to the music of Edvard Grieg, Jules Massenet, Mozart, and Vivaldi, will give unforgettable bright emotions of happiness for adults and children.
Handsome Kai, robbers, forest fairies, funny Snowman, fabulous trolls, and, of course, brave beautiful Gerda who will pass all difficulties on her way.
Kai and Gerda are sitting in their garden among roses when a shard of a witch’s mirror gets into Kai’s eye. His heart becomes hard and cold. One winter day a whirlwind of snow rises around him and he disappears. He is taken by the Snow Queen who lives in a world of ice and snow.
Gerda goes in search of Kai. There are many challenges ahead but love helps her get through them and free Kai from the spell of the Snow Queen.
https://attpac.org/event/grand-kyiv-snow-queen?pid=66135
New Year’s Eve with Dallas Symphony Orchestra
Morton H Meyerson Symphony Center – December 31st
Spend the last night of 2024 at the Meyerson! Enjoy an incredible evening of music with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Moritz Gnann, as we celebrate the new year.
https://www.dallassymphony.org/productions/new-years-eve-2/
FORT WORTH
Celebrate the Holidays, STOCKYARDS STYLE
Make the Fort Worth Stockyards your home for the holidays! Rodeo Rink, Santa’s Arrival on Nov 29th, 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 30th & 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 29th
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 29th– December 24th
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
https://fortworthstockyards.com/events/photos-with-cowboy-santa-3/
