With more than 1,400 Christmas events over 40 days, millions of lights, festive parades on Historic Main Street, larger-than-life decorations, animated characters, and endless Santa photo ops, holidays are truly merrier in the Christmas Capital of Texas! As an avid Texas traveler, I can confidently say there’s no place quite like Grapevine during the holiday season. Whether you’re sipping hot cocoa at the North Pole Express, strolling through the beautifully decorated Historic Downtown, or marveling at the Parade of Lights, Grapevine’s Christmas is unlike anywhere else.
Let’s check out some of the best holiday activities in Grapevine that make this small town a must-visit destination and, of course, “The Christmas Capital of Texas.”
Free Christmas Activities in Grapevine
36th Annual Carol of Lights
Rediscover the magic of Christmas as the 36th Annual Carol of Lights presented by Texas Health illuminates Historic Downtown Grapevine to kick off the holiday celebrations at the Christmas Capital of Texas! At this come-and-go street lighting event, you can explore up and down Historic Main Street and enjoy engaging performances on 3 different stages, festive food trucks, and Santa’s Grand Entrance at 6:30 PM.
Multiple interactive activity zones for kids will keep the little ones engaged throughout the evening with activities like Jumpin’ Junction, photos with Santa, Reindeer Ready: Feed & Fun, Reindeer Photos, and Singing Snowmen.
November 25, 2024, from 4 PM to 8:30 PM.
45th Annual Parade of Lights
This celebration on Main Street marks the largest and most spectacular lighted Christmas parade in North Texas. Since its inception in 1979, the Grapevine Parade of Lights occurs on the first Thursday in December each year, uniting the Grapevine Chamber and the City of Grapevine along with Grapevine-Colleyville ISD.
With over 100 dazzling lighted floats and vibrant marching bands, this year’s theme, Toys, Trains & Candy Canes, promises to ignite the holiday spirit. Watch for Santa Claus, who will ride the last float! Arrive early to secure your spot along Historic Main Street and join this wonderful holiday tradition.
December 5, 2024, at 7 PM.
Merry & Bright Christmas Drone Show
The Grapevine’s 4th annual Merry & Bright Christmas Drone Shows is a one-of-a-kind holiday event in the Christmas Capital of Texas. You can witness 400 drones lighting up the night sky over Main Street during the show. This 10-minute show on December 2, 2024, will begin at 7:00 PM, and traffic on Historic Main Street will be closed to give pedestrians more room during the show.
If you want to witness the illuminated drones from a vantage point to get the perfect view, there’s also a VIP watch party on December 9, 2024, on the second-floor balcony of the Grapevine Convention and Visitors Bureau Grand Hall.
December 2 and 9, 2024, at 7 PM.
Ticketed Christmas Activities in Grapevine
Santa’s North Pole Express
The Christmas Capital of Texas is home to the famous Grapevine Vintage Railroad, also known as the North Pole Express® during Christmas.
It all starts when you climb aboard Santa’s North Pole Express in the heart of Grapevine, where the Historic Cotton Belt District is transformed into a Christmas Village. As your adventure begins, Santa’s Elves, Jingle and Twinkle, share the secret of the “We Believe” silver bells.
During the 45-minute train ride, enjoy classic decorations, Christmas singalongs, and memorable moments with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Indulge in Mrs. Claus’ Homemade Chocolate Chip Cookie and Frosty Chocolate Snow Milk.
Your ticket includes a 4×6 photo with Santa at the General Store, which you can schedule before or after your ride.
Due to its overwhelming popularity, Santa’s North Pole Express trains are full, but you can still join their waitlist. You might get lucky this year.
November 29, 2024 – December 30, 2024. Times vary.
Peace Plaza Ice Rink
The Christmas Capital of Texas® is home to one of the most fabulous attractions yet: the Peace Plaza Ice Rink, also known as “The Rockefeller Center of the Southwest.” This Texas-sized outdoor ice skating rink at Peace Plaza in front of Grapevine Main Station offers a festive glide over the ice, enjoying Texas winter right beside a 60-foot live Christmas tree! With group rentals available by the hour, it’s the perfect holiday activity to gather your friends and family and create unforgettable moments on the ice.
For just $20 per person, enjoy a one-hour session with ice skates, all available for purchase online. November 22, 2024 – January 7, 2025.
The Merriest Christmas Tour with Grapevine Food Tours
The Merriest Christmas Tour is a fun food and wine tour of the Christmas Capital of Texas, where you’ll enjoy three delicious food tastings and three holiday cocktails while exploring the beautifully decorated town. The tour also includes a 150-foot hike to the top of the Main Street Observation Tower for a fantastic view of all the Christmas festivities.
Don’t forget to snap the perfect holiday photos when you land at Grapevine’s Hometown Christmas exhibit, also included in the tour. Tasting options include a pulled pork slider with a holiday cocktail, an Italian dish with a special cocktail, and a gourmet French dish with a festive cocktail.
You can purchase tickets online. Select days from December 5 to 31, 2024.
Santa’s North Pole Express Neighborhood
Your Santa’s North Pole Express ticket also includes the additional perk of enjoying food and beverage vendors, photos with Santa at North Pole Express Neighborhood General Store, Christmas card photo ops, the Stroller Express parking tent, and the Santa’s North Pole Express Carousel at Santa’s North Pole Neighborhood.
November 29, 2024 – December 30, 2024.
Hometown Christmas Exhibit
Ever wonder how a small town like Grapevine became the Christmas Capital of Texas? Well, now you have a chance to see it for yourself. Stroll through Grapevine’s Hometown Christmas exhibit and witness the classic American town preparing for Christmas. The sights, sounds, smells, vintage displays, and plenty of picture-perfect moments in this holiday exhibit make it easy to get swept away by memories.
Tickets are available online for just $2 per person.
Open from November 25, 2024 – January 5, 2025, except Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. Times vary by day.
Elf Adventure
Discover Grapevine’s fascinating history by joining an Elf Adventure at Grapevine Settlement to City Museums! It’s a holiday event in Santa’s North Pole Neighborhood where young and adults unleash their creativity by creating handmade keepsakes. Print a vintage Christmas card on the 1881 Chandler and Price Printing Press and send it to Santa.
Craft a beautiful Christmas-themed ornament, assemble and decorate your wooden Victorian toy, and shape a snowman with cotton. You can purchase a $10 passport online, valid for all five Elf Adventure activities, or $4 per person for each activity.
November 29, 2024 – December 30, 2024. Closed on December 24, 25 and 26.
Ice! & Lone Star Christmas at The Gaylord Texan
If you are visiting Grapevine this holiday season with family, there can’t be a better place than Gaylord Texan, where a magical winter wonderland awaits! This year, the resort features various festive activities that will delight guests of all ages, including ICE!, a spectacular Christmas light show, and traditional activities such as snow tubing, ice skating, and photos with Santa.
Here are the 2024 Christmas season highlights at the Gaylord Texan Resort.
ICE! featuring Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer™
ICE is a spectacular holiday attraction that brings to life your favorite scenes from the cherished classic, “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” through stunning ice sculptures meticulously hand-carved from over 2 million pounds of ice. This year commemorates the 60th anniversary of the beloved 1964 television special, celebrating the spirit of the season!
Tickets start from $22 and can be purchased online. November 15, 2024 – January 5, 2025.
Cirque: Spirit of Christmas
Cirque: Spirit of Christmas is a Broadway-style show featuring dazzling acrobatics and high-flying stunts. This holiday performance follows Noel, a child disheartened by the holiday chaos, as spirits visit her to help rediscover the true meaning of the season through energetic and dreamlike adventures.
November 15, 2024 – January 5, 2025.
Snow Flow Mountain (Ice Tubing)
Experience our six-lane tubing hill, made of real frozen ice and designed to bring thrilling fun for all ages. Zoom down the lanes, race to the bottom, and enjoy unlimited runs on your ticket date.
November 15, 2024 – January 5, 2025.
Rudolph’s Holly Jolly™ Breakfast
Join in for a delicious breakfast that will delight your taste buds with Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and his charming friends from the beloved television special by your side. This enchanting event promises to be a joyous occasion, overflowing with laughter and excitement, sure to make you shout out with excitement!
November 16, 2024 – January 1, 2025.
Christmas Carousel
A fun, festive ride that promises nostalgia and laughter for all ages as you spin endlessly, creating unforgettable memories together. With an unlimited ride ticket in hand, you can enjoy this family-friendly adventure without limits!
November 15, 2024 – January 5, 2025.
Snowball Build & Blast
Grab a tub of snow and let the snowball frenzy begin! With each real snowball you build and toss, you’ll supercharge the snowmaking machines. Aim for the targets with precision and watch your score skyrocket with every perfect throw.
November 15, 2024 – January 5, 2025.
Ice On The Blocks
Experience tranquility at On the Blocks, the exclusive bar inside ICE!. Elevate your ICE! adventure by indulging in a select beverage sampling just for adults 21+. Let the ambient lighting, music, and creative photo opportunities ignite your spirit in this extraordinary VIP setting.
November 15, 2024 – January 5, 2025.
Christmas Village
A whimsical winter wonderland, where every corner is filled with festive charm and endless excitement. Explore Snow Flow Mountain, a thrilling attraction where families can glide down picturesque slopes surrounded by sparkling snowflakes. Join in the fun at Snowball Build & Blast, an interactive area where you can craft your own snowballs and engage in friendly snowball fights with friends and family.
Take a spin on a classic Christmas carousel, adorned with twinkling lights and beautifully crafted wooden animals that capture the spirit of the season. As you stroll through this enchanting landscape, enjoy a variety of seasonal treats from cozy vendors, listen to joyful carols echoing through the air, and capture the perfect photographs with holiday-themed backdrops.
November 15, 2024 – January 5, 2025.
Twinkling Tides and Scuba Santa at SEA LIFE Grapevine
With thousands of lights under the sea, Twinkling Tides is the most unique winter wonderland in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex at SEA LIFE Grapevine Aquarium! Explore over 10 interactive zones adorned with festive décor, and spot scuba Santa as he dives underwater, greeting friendly sea creatures and interacting with you after checking his naughty or nice list.
Tickets are available online for just $19 per person. November 29, 2024 – January 5, 2025, from 10 AM to 6 PM daily.
Snowland at Great Wolf Lodge
Snowland is the annual Christmas celebration at Great Wolf Lodge, where the lodge transforms into a winter wonderland filled with seasonal festivities. Glimmering decorations and daily indoor snowfall in the grand lobby are the highlights, alongside endless family-friendly activations.
During Snowland, families can participate in activities like a holiday scavenger hunt, Snowfall Celebration singalong, Frosty Fest dance party, seasonal games like Bingo and Trivia, custom arts and crafts, and visits from Santa (on select days). Best of all, all of this comes with your reservation without additional tickets. Be sure to check the schedule at the lodge upon arrival to plan your family’s time.
You can reserve your stay online. November 25, 2024 – January 6, 2025.
Christmas Wine Train
Christmas Wine Train is a 2-hour adult-only excursion in festive-themed and beautifully decorated Grapevine Vintage Railroad coaches with Santa and Mrs. Claus. You’ll sip on delicious Texas wines while timeless Christmas classics will be playing in the background.
General Admission tickets are $52 per person and include two complimentary glasses of exquisite Texas wine, a curated selection of sweet and savory bites, dessert, and a beautiful souvenir wine glass that will remind you of this special occasion.
For an elevated experience, Premier Class tickets are available for $395, and include a table for four where you can savor three complimentary glasses of fine Texas wine, indulge in a hot plated meal featuring a salad, main course, side, and veggie, finish with dessert, and cherish a souvenir wine glass, all while creating unforgettable memories with loved ones. Due to its overwhelming popularity, Santa’s North Pole Express trains are full, but you can still join their waitlist.
December 11 and 12, 2024.
You can also read our blog about Grapevine Urban Wine Trail.
Christmas Shows and Live Performances in Grapevine
Christmas at the Palace Theatre
Grapevine is your go-to destination for Christmas entertainment, featuring 12 diverse programs, your favorite Classic Christmas Movies, and 27 concerts at the beautifully restored Palace Theatre in Historic Downtown. With some of the best classic Christmas cartoons, like Frosty the Snowman and A Year Without Santa, the little ones are more than welcome to join in the fun. Here are some highlights of Christmas shows and events at The Palace.
Nutcracker – Short and Sweet at The Palace Theatre
Nutcracker – Short and Sweet, presented by North Central Ballet at the Historic Palace Theatre, is a magical journey through dancing snowflakes to the Kingdom of Sweets, featuring Tchaikovsky’s famous score, including Spanish Dance, Arabian Dance, and the Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy. This one-hour performance with an intermission is a family-friendly event perfect for all ages and aims to inspire children to embrace the art of dance, making it an ideal Sunday outing for ballet lovers.
Tickets start at $15 and are available online. November 23 and 24, 2024, at 3 PM.
Home Alone
This beloved 1990 classic follows the misadventures of an eight-year-old boy named Kevin McCallister. When his family accidentally leaves him behind while they jet off for their Christmas vacation, Kevin finds himself home alone, facing the challenge of protecting his house from a pair of bumbling burglars.
Tickets are available online for just $10. November 30, 2024, and December 16, 22, and 23, 2024.
Elvis Christmas Special starring Kraig Parker
Kraig Parker, known for his incredible tribute to Elvis, is back with his Christmas Special in Grapevine. His appearance, moves, charm, and strong voice make him the closest thing to Elvis in person. The show features Christmas songs, Elvis classics, and surprise performances, making it a must-see holiday event. Adult tickets start at $32, and VIP options are available.
You can purchase tickets here. December 1, 2024, at 4 PM.
Classic Christmas Cartoons & Craft
Bring your little ones to enjoy a beloved classic Christmas cartoon, which will put everyone in a festive mood. As an added treat, they’ll also participate in a creative Christmas-themed craft session and let their imaginations shine.
Child Ticket is priced at $8 and includes access to the movie(s), an engaging craft activity*, a small popcorn to munch on, and a choice of a refreshing beverage (either a juice box or water). Adult Ticket is priced at $4, which grants you admission to the movie(s) and includes a complimentary beverage. Every child will get to create a fun DIY Jingle Bell necklace, a wonderful keepsake to wear and help spread the joy of the season.
Purchase tickets here. December 2, 3, 5, 6, 10, 12, 13, 16, 17, 19, 20, and 23, 2024.
A Christmas Story
In this beloved Christmas classic from 1983, the story follows a young boy Ralphie’s persuasion to his parents, teacher, and even Santa Claus himself that a Red Ryder BB gun is the ultimate holiday gift.
Tickets are available online for just $10. December 2, 2024, at 7 PM.
Dean Martin & Friends Christmas Tribute
“Dean Martin and Friends: Christmas Edition,” is a 90-minute nonstop ride of laughter and joy where the talented Tom Stevens takes center stage. This show is a riotous celebration of the holiday spirit, packed with spot-on impressions that will leave you in fits of laughter! With a delightful mix of music and humor, it’s the ultimate holiday experience brought to life by one of Las Vegas’ most extraordinary performers.
Tickets are available online for just $44. December 6, 2024, at 3 PM and 7 PM.
Animated Double Feature: A Charlie Brown Christmas & Frosty the Snowman
A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS is a 1965 classic that revolves around Charlie Brown’s quest to uncover the true meaning of Christmas. FROSTY THE SNOWMAN from 1966 is the tale of a joyful snowman, brought to life by a magical hat, teaming up with a spirited little girl. Together, they venture on an adventurous escape from the clutches of a greedy magician who is determined to reclaim the snowman’s precious hat.
Tickets are available online for just $10. December 16 and December 19, 2024, at 11 AM.
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
This 1964 Christmas classic follows the story of a misfit reindeer and his friends looking for a place to accept them.
Tickets are available online for just $10. December 17, 2024.
Christmas Shopping in Grapevine
Grapevine Christmas Market
In the Christmas Capital of Texas, Grapevine Christmas Market at Town Square Gazebo is a place where every shop promises a perfect gift. Explore lots and lots of artisans and vendors selling handcrafted gifts for everyone on your list. It’s a fun place for the whole family to learn about Texas products and shop locally.
Grapevine Mills
Grapevine Mills is a climate-controlled indoor mall spanning an impressive 1.8 million square feet. With approximately 200 stores, it is the premier shopping and dining destination for the holiday season in North Texas. This vibrant retail hub transforms into a festive wonderland, offering various options for Christmas shoppers seeking gifts, treats, and delightful experiences.
Don’t miss out on Santa pictures while catching holiday deals! When hunger strikes, enjoy family-friendly dining at the Rainforest Café, or grab a quick bite at Subway, Charley’s Philly Steaks, Panda Express, or Chili’s. Your family day out is sure to be memorable! Click here for more information on their stores.
Christmas Pop-Up Bars and Photo Ops in Grapevine
Liberty Park Plaza
Liberty Park Plaza offers some excellent spots for Christmas photos in Grapevine’s Historic District. It features scenic backdrops at Torian Cabin and Toyland and a mistletoe kissing booth—perfect for your photo adventure.
Town Square Gazebo
The Town Square Gazebo and Merry Memories Square offer a treasure trove of holiday photo ops for your whole family. Capture memorable moments with a beautifully adorned tree and presents, as well as a charming fiberglass horse and carriage. There’s also a life-sized Christmas car and an enchanting gazebo that serves as a backdrop for photos.
Weem’s Alley
Weem’s Alley, proudly sponsored by Arca Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages, will showcase the whimsical Candy Cane Lane. While these delightful candy canes are not supposed to be eaten, they undoubtedly create a whimsical backdrop for capturing unforgettable photographs.
Holly Jolly Bar
Experience a winter wonderland at the holiday pop-up bar at Harvest Hall on Main Street, Grapevine. Enjoy live music and delicious, handcrafted cocktails infused with seasonal flavors.
The Igloos and Holiday Hideaway
Holiday Hideaway at Chicken N Pickle is a pop-up holiday bar that offers a cozy lodge atmosphere with festive decor and summit views. This 21+ experience features unique holiday-themed activities and cozy igloos, making it ideal for family gatherings, date nights, and celebrations. Tables are $5 to $10 per person. November 22, 2024 – December 31, 2024.
Best Places for Santa Photos in Grapevine
Santa’s Wonderland at Bass Pro Shops
Bring your family to Bass Pro Shops in Grapevine for a memorable photo with Santa Claus in a beautifully decorated and festive setting. Each family will receive a complimentary 4×6 photo as a keepsake, along with a delightful shareable video capturing the joy of your visit. Reservations are highly encouraged, so secure your spot online today! November 3,3, 2024 – December 24, 2024.
Main Street Santa
Keeping his 10-year tradition, Santa is returning to Main Street in Grapevine, Texas, where he eagerly awaits you and your whole family! You can capture the perfect holiday snapshot with Santa by choosing from 4 different photo packages. Let your kids gather around as Santa brings your favorite tales to life.
Although walk-ins are welcome, reserving your spot online is highly recommended to skip the line! November 17, 2024 – December 24, 2024.
Christmas Arts and Crafts Classes in Grapevine
Make Your Own Glass Snowman Ornament
Every holiday season, the most creative participants unite at Vetro Glassblowing Studio & Gallery to craft enchanting glass snowmen and traditional ornaments. This event in Grapevine’s Historic District offers a great photo opportunity for people of all ages. Participants can try their hands at the ancient art of glassblowing and create personalized gifts for someone special.
Bring your camera and witness the magic as hot molten glass transforms into beautiful holiday treasures. Tickets start from $15 and are available online. November 27, 29, 30, and December 1, 27, 28, 29, and 30, 2024.
Christmas Craft Show with Santa and Mrs. Claus
Gather at the Grapevine Convention Center for the Christmas in Grapevine Craft Show! Enjoy 95+ vendor booths, holiday music, thousands of hand-crafted gifts, delicious holiday treats, FREE drawings, and prizes. Don’t miss your chance to take photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus (November 30, from 11 AM to 2 PM). $5 for adults.
Kids 12 and under and military with ID are free! November 30, 2024, from 9 AM to 4 PM, and December 1, 2024, from 10 AM to 4 PM.
Christmas Celebration at Nash Farm
The Farmstead Christmas Celebration at Nash Farm offers ornament crafting, traditional music, and festive fun for the whole family. You can also indulge in delicious seasonal refreshments during the celebration.
Tickets are just $5 per person and can be purchased online. December 7, 2024, from 1 PM to 4 PM.
Make & Take Gingerbread House
When you have your very own slice of heaven at “JudyPie,” why not decorate a Gingerbread House filled with all your favorites and treasures? You can craft a whimsical Santa-themed Gingerbread House, complete with colorful icing, sparkling sprinkles, and festive candies. Alternatively, you can opt for a beautiful Hanukkah Gingerbread House, featuring blue and white decorations and delicate star motifs. Both houses are filled with a mix of sweet treats to enjoy.
With all the trimmings in place, you might even encounter a magical gingerbread man to join in the festive fun. This event will take place on December 11, 14, 15, and 22, 2024.
Holiday Events In DFW
Candlelight: Christmas Special Featuring “The Nutcracker”
Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience at Fort Worth Botanic Garden under the gentle glow of candlelight. Watch Listeso String Quartet perform holiday specials, including Ma’oz Tzur, Deck the Halls, The First Noël, and more. This 60-minute performance is suitable for those 8 and older. An adult must accompany anyone under 16. Tickets range from $58 to $70 and are available online. December 10, 2024, at 8:45 PM.
For more DFW holiday activities and events, check out our comprehensive guide to Holiday Activities in DFW.
Related Posts: Couples’ Guide to Exploring Grapevine, TX
Other Christmas Things to Do in Texas
If you want to extend your holiday adventures beyond Grapevine, Christmas in Texas is “bigger,” just like the Lone Star State itself, with plenty of festive destinations to explore. Marvel at the magnificent River Walk Holiday Lights in San Antonio, where the riverbanks sparkle with millions of twinkling lights.
Experience the magic of the season at Holiday at the Arboretum in Dallas, featuring dazzling displays. The event also includes a 12 Days of Christmas exhibit. Don’t miss The South Pole Illuminated Festival in McAllen, a winter wonderland with vibrant light installations and festive activities.
Check out our ultimate guide to Best Christmas Activities in Texas in 2024.
Grapevine Christmas Capital of Texas: FAQs
What is special about Grapevine, Texas?
Grapevine, Texas, is a charming destination known as the Christmas Capital of Texas. It hosts over 1,400 holiday events that transform the town into a winter wonderland. Historic Downtown features a walkable Main Street with preserved 19th and 20th-century buildings, upscale boutiques, year-round festivals and events, and fine dining. Additionally, the Grapevine Vintage Railroad offers scenic train rides.
Best of all, all of this is within a 3-mile radius.
What is the biggest Christmas town in Texas?
Grapevine is the biggest Christmas town in Texas and the Christmas Capital of Texas. This charming town becomes a festive wonderland each holiday season with over 1,400 events and activities. Highlights include the magical North Pole Express, the dazzling Parade of Lights, the beautifully decorated Historic Downtown, and the enchanting Grapevine Glockenspiel Clock Tower. Grapevine is the top destination for holiday cheer, attracting visitors from all over Texas.
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Grapevine Christmas Capital of Texas: Final Thoughts
As my holiday adventure in Grapevine ends, I must admit this charming town truly deserves the Christmas Capital of Texas title. From the magical lights and captivating performances to the delightful aromas of festive treats, Grapevine has wrapped me in its enchanting embrace. As an avid Texas traveler, I can say Christmas in Grapevine is an unforgettable adventure filled with holiday cheer. Trust me, it’s a holiday journey you’ll never forget!
Check out our other holiday content listed below:
Last Updated 4 weeks ago by Jessica Serna | Published: November 24, 2024
