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Must-Do Christmas Events and Holiday Activities in Dallas-Fort Worth for Kids

Zoom down frozen slides, creep through icy tunnels, and more at ICE! Photo courtesy of Gaylord Texas at Gaylord Texan Resort and Conference Center.
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11/9/25 - By Gabby Cullen

When it comes to holiday activities in Dallas-Fort Worth, North Texas starts the party early in November and takes it all the way through the new year. 

Of course, not all Christmas events and holiday activities are created equal. That's why we've rounded up the absolute best ways to get into the spirit of the season. Here is our curated list of must-do holiday activities and Christmas events in Dallas and the rest of the metroplex for kids and families in 2025.

Our picks for Dallas-Forth Worth's top holiday activities and Christmas events are a mix of classic favorites like Holidays at the Arboretum, the Dallas Zoo Lights, and the Trains at NorthPark mixed with some unique happenings like the Polyphonic Spree 21st Annual Holiday Extravaganza.

So pull out your calendar and check out the whole list below. Happy holidays, ya'll! 

 

OUR LATEST VIDEOS

Must-Do Christmas Events and Holiday Activities in Dallas

Electrify the Night Drive Thru Holiday Light Show

Arlington, Frisco, Little Elm
Friday, November 7, 2025 - Sunday, January 4, 2026
Take the whole family through Texas's No. 1 drive-through holiday light show! There are locations in Arlington, Little Elm, and Frisco, but each one promises a mile-long spectacular featuring millions of lights synchronized to an electric mix of music powered by DJ Polar Ice from the North Pole’s #1 Hit Radio station, K-GLO, as they take in the brightest sights and sounds in the South. READ MORE

Holidays at the Arboretum

East Dallas
Wednesday, November 12, 2025 - Sunday, January 4, 2025
The iconic Christmas Village and 12 Days of Christmas gazebos return! See all the "snow globes," see the giant Christmas tree, shop in the European-inspired Christmas Village, and, new in 2025, Night Glow: an after-dark light installation that illuminates the famous gardens for an incredible holiday experience.  READ MORE

ICE! featuring Elf™

Grapveine
Friday, November 14, 2025 - Sunday, January 4, 2026
One of the most popular things to do in Dallas over the holiday season! Get ready to bundle up and wander through the magical ice exhibit featuring everyone's favorite Elf. Zoom down frozen slides, creep through icy tunnels, and see ice sculptures of the Narwhal, Jovie, Papa Elf, and so many more. READ MORE

Dallas' Brightest Nights at the Dallas Zoo

Oak Cliff
Friday, November 14, 2025 - Sunday, January 6, 2026
The popular holiday event returns to the Dallas Zoo; be prepared to wander through the exhibits for a magical experience where wild things glow. Kids can meet the guy in red, take photos with friends, see the dinosaurs decked out for the holidays, and enjoy festive snacks.  READ MORE

The Trains at NorthParkCenter

Park Cities
Saturday, November 15, 2025 - Sunday, January 4, 2026
Everyone loves the trains! This incredible annual fundraiser for the Ronald McDonald House is in its 38th year and never disappoints. New this year is a S.T.E.A.M.-inspired experience, Sensory Friendly Hours, technology for visually impaired patrons, a LEGO feature, and brand-new merchandise. READ MORE

Christmas in the Garden at the Fort Worth Botanic Garden

Fort Worth Cultural District
Friday, November 21, 2025 - Sunday, January 4, 2026
As twilight falls, the Garden transforms into a winter wonderland featuring dazzling light installations that wind through the paths, creating moments of holiday wonder for guests of all ages. Santa Claus will be on hand every evening through Christmas Eve to listen to wish lists and capture keepsake photos. Also, enjoy Fort Worth's finest seasonal cuisine, including beloved local favorites like JD's Burgers, Magdalena's, Pulido's, Curly's Custard, and Margie's Italian Gardens. READ MORE

Christmas in the Frisco Square

Frisco - FREE
Friday, November 21, 2025 - Monday, January 5, 2026
Returning for its 20th year, this beloved holiday tradition is better than ever! Enjoy the largest choreographed light shows in North Texas, skate in one of the area's only outdoor ice rinks, carriage rides, visits with Santa, a Christmas light tunnel, and more festive fun. READ MORE

Coca-Cola Classic Christmas

Dallas Midtown
Friday, November 21 - Sunday, December 28, 2025
This holiday wonderland features 90,000 square feet of lights, immersive holiday scenes, ice skating, live music, outdoor sledding, Christmas karaoke, ugly sweater contests, holiday treats, and much more. READ MORE

Dallas Children's Theater Presents: "The Pigeon Gets A Big Time Holiday Extravaganza!"

Northeast Dallas
Select dates from Saturday, November 21 - Sunday, December 21, 2025
When Mo Willems’ characters get together for the holidays, it’s bound to be the biggest extravaganza ever! Terrific tunes, silly stories, goofy gifts, and audience antics hit the stage in this brand-new musical party that sleighs! READ MORE

Lights on the Farm at Heritage Farmstead Museum

Plano
Friday, November 28 - Sunday, December 28, 2025
Come to the farm for a dazzling light show! Now in its fifth year, this popular holiday attraction features over 1 million lights spread across a 1/4-mile walk through the museum. Meet Santa Claus, sip hot chocolate, snack on popcorn, and enjoy holiday music. READ MORE

Texas Ballet Theater Presents: "The Nutcracker"

Dallas Arts District
Select dates from Friday, November 28 - Sunday, December 7, 2025
Dallas's premiere ballet company brings the wonder and magic of Tchaikovsky’s timeless score and Ben Stevenson, O.B.E.’s captivating choreography awaken your holiday spirit this Christmas. If you're bringing kids to a matinee performance, don't miss the Kingdom of Sweets! Get a closer look at the ballet from 1-2pm 1-2 pm in the Ballet Interactive area: touch a tutu, hold a pointe shoe, and even meet a real ballerina! READ MORE

Holiday Drone Show at Reunion Tower

Downtown Dallas - FREE
Thursday, December 4, 2025
Chevy and Reunion Tower are lighting up the sky to kick off the holiday season. Enjoy the magic of 1,000 synchronized drones (visible from up to three miles away!) creating holiday-themed animations, including a Christmas tree, gingerbread cookie baking, snowman, “Happy Holidays” message, and a Suburban carrying a Christmas tree! READ MORE

Fort Worth Parade of Lights 2025

Sundance Square - FREE
Thursday, December 4, 2025
Kick off the holiday season Fort Worth-style with a dazzling celebration! This year's theme is "Sparkle, Dazzle, and Shine," and the 2025 parade's Grand Marshal is Chris Cassidy, retired U.S. Navy SEAL, a former NASA astronaut, and the current President and CEO of the National Medal of Honor Museum Foundation. Can’t make the parade? The award-winning Parade Broadcast will be available online and broadcast! READ MORE

City of Grapevine Presents: 46th Annual Parade of Lights

Historic downtown Grapevine - FREE
Thursday, December 4, 2025
Featuring more than 100 lighted floats and marching bands, the 2025 theme for this beloved event is "Storybook Parade." Look for Santa Claus on the last float! Come early to claim your spot along Historic Main Street to watch this exciting holiday event. READ MORE

Dallas Holiday Parade

Downtown Dallas - FREE
Saturday, December 6, 2025
An annual tradition beloved by DFW, Dallas' largest one-day event is filled with larger-than-life floats, giant balloons, tons of local marching bands and drill teams, and of course, an appearance by Santa and Mrs. Claus. Enjoy the parade and stay for the food and entertainment downtown Dallas has to offer!  READ MORE

Dallas Symphony Orchestra Presents: "Home Alone" in Concert

Arts District
Friday - Sunday, December 5 - 7, 2025
A true holiday favorite, this beloved comedy classic features renowned composer John Williams’ charming and delightful score performed live to picture by the Dallas Symphony Orchestra READ MORE

Santa's Village at Huffhines Park

Richardson - FREE
Fridays - Sundays, December 6 - 21, 2025
The beloved Richardson tradition returns! Wander through Santa's post office, Mrs. Claus' bakery, and other whimsical dwellings that offer fun activities and crafts. Snag a photo with Santa, enjoy hot chocolate and snacks, and watch performances from local groups like the Richardson HS Legacy Show Choir, Children's Chorus of Collin County, Raqsat Al Jamal Bellydance, and many others.  READ MORE

Nutcracker Holiday Tea at the Hotel Crescent Court

Uptown
Saturday, December 6 - Sunday, December 28, 2025
Celebrate the season with this beloved tradition. Guests will dine on savory bites like a Dazzling Dill Cucumber Sandwich, the Christmas Chicken Pecan Salad Croissant, and sweet treats like the Peppermint Christmas Tree Macaron and the Twinkling Tangerine Fruit Tart. There is live music, Nutcracker-themed decor, a dash of sparkle for extra fun. Adults can add on champagne for an extra $40 READ MORE

The Dallas Symphony Presents: Christmas Pops

Arts District
Select Dates from Friday, December 12 - Sunday, December 21, 2025
It’s that wonderful time of the year! Families gather and celebrate the holidays with music when guest conductor Lawrence Loh, along with two popular vocalists, soprano Jasmine Habersham and baritone Reginald Smith, Jr., return to sing seasonal favorites for the holidays. And don't forget the audience sing-along with the big guy himself—aka Santa Claus  READ MORE

The Polyphonic Spree 22nd Annual Holiday Extravaganza

Downtown
Saturday, December 20, 2025
Get ready for an evening of high-energy festive fun with local rock band The Polyphonic Spree. Mrs. Mistletoe will paint faces and Mr. Evergreen will make balloon animals. There'll be photos with Santa, and stilt-walking Nutcracker soldiers, and milk and cookies will be served at midnight. READ MORE

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About the Author

Gabby Cullen
Gabby Cullen has over 15 years of media experience, starting in public relations before moving to the editorial side in 2009. With a decade of expertise in parenting and lifestyle, she balances her work as an editor and writer while navigating life as a mom of two. An avid reader and true crime podcast fan, Gabby lives in Dallas, TX with her family. Find her on Instagram and Threads @gabbycullen.
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