With more than 1,400 Christmas events over 40 days, millions of twinkling lights, festive parades, larger-than-life decorations, and plenty of Santa photo opportunities, the holiday season is extra magical in Grapevine! As an avid Texas traveler, I can confidently say there’s no place quite like this charming town during Christmas. From riding the festive Santa’s North Pole Express to exploring the beautifully decorated Historic Main Street and watching the annual Parade of Lights, Grapevine is filled with holiday cheer at every turn.
Let’s explore some of the best Christmas activities in Grapevine and see why this small Texas town truly earns its title as the Christmas Capital of Texas!
Free Christmas Activities in Grapevine
38th Annual Carol of Lights
Kick off the holiday season at the 38th Annual Carol of Lights, presented by Grapevine Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram! This free, family-friendly celebration marks the start of Christmas in the Christmas Capital of Texas.
Historic Main Street comes alive with festive entertainment, featuring live performances across three stages, seasonal food vendors, and local shops staying open late for holiday shopping. Families can also enjoy plenty of activities, including Santa’s Racetrack with Rydables, live reindeer, holiday crafts, a three-lane snow hill, snow-themed slides, and bounce houses. Bring the whole family, bundle up, and enjoy an evening of holiday fun beneath millions of twinkling lights!
November 23, 2026, from 4 PM to 8 PM.
47th Annual Parade of Lights
Get into the holiday spirit at Grapevine’s 47th Annual Parade of Lights, one of the most spectacular Christmas traditions in North Texas! Held along Historic Main Street, this annual celebration brings together the Grapevine Chamber, the City of Grapevine, and Grapevine-Colleyville ISD for an evening of festive fun.
This year’s theme, “Christmas Miracle on Main Street,” sets the scene for a dazzling procession featuring more than 100 illuminated floats and marching bands. Since 1979, the parade has been a beloved holiday tradition, drawing families and visitors to celebrate the season together. Arrive early to find a good viewing spot along Main Street and enjoy the festive atmosphere!
December 3, 2026, at 7 PM.
Merry & Bright Christmas Drone Show
Experience a magical holiday spectacle at Grapevine’s 6th Annual Merry & Bright Drone Show! Head to Historic Main Street and watch as a fleet of 600 synchronized drones lights up the night sky with festive Christmas displays. The show launches from the north end of Main Street, near Northwest Highway, creating a memorable holiday experience for visitors of all ages.
Historic Main Street will close to vehicle traffic during the event, giving visitors more room to walk around, explore local shops, and enjoy the Christmas atmosphere. Arrive early to find a good viewing spot!
December 7, 2026, 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, which transforms into Santa’s North Pole Express during the holiday season.
Climb aboard for a magical Christmas adventure starting at the Grapevine Christmas Market in the Historic Cotton Belt District. Once on the beautifully decorated vintage coaches, Santa’s elves, Holly and Frosty, lead festive singalongs before a special visit from Santa Claus.
Your ticket also includes Mrs. Claus’ Homemade Chocolate Chip Cookie and Frosty Chocolate Snow Milk served in a souvenir memory mug. Plus, each family receives one complimentary 4×6 photo with Santa at the Christmas Market General Store, which you can take before or after your train ride.
Arrive early to explore the Christmas Market, browse the vendors, and enjoy the holiday activities before boarding. Departure times vary by date, so check the schedule when booking!
November 27 – December 30, 2026. Times vary by date.
Peace Plaza Ice Rink
The Christmas Capital of Texas is home to one of the season’s coolest attractions: the Peace Plaza Ice Rink, often called the “Rockefeller Center of the Southwest.” Located at Peace Plaza in front of Grapevine Main Station, this Texas-sized outdoor rink lets you enjoy a festive skating experience beneath the stars and beside a towering live Christmas tree.
Whether you’re planning a fun family outing or a memorable activity with friends, it’s a wonderful way to embrace the holiday spirit. Each skating session lasts one hour, and skate rentals are included in the admission price. Group rentals are also available for those looking to enjoy the rink together.
Tickets cost $20 per person, including skate rentals, and can be purchased online.
Open daily through January 5, 2027. Hours vary by day. Closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
Enjoy a Holiday Food Tour with Grapevine Food Tours
Add a little flavor to your Christmas visit with a food tour from Grapevine Food Tours! These guided experiences let you explore Historic Grapevine while sampling delicious local dishes, drinks, and sweet treats.
One option is their global flavors tour, featuring a French dish paired with a cocktail, an Italian tasting with a frozen cocktail, and a decadent pie from a highly regarded local bakery. The tour runs Wednesday through Friday, from 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM, for $129 per person, including tasting fees, taxes, and gratuity.
Planning a festive outing with friends or family? Grapevine Food Tours also works with groups to create custom experiences for special occasions and holiday celebrations. Contact them directly to ask about seasonal availability and arrangements.
Visit Grapevine Food Tours to explore current offerings and book your experience.
Santa’s North Pole Express Neighborhood
Make your visit to Santa’s North Pole Express even more magical at the Grapevine Christmas Market in the Cotton Belt Railroad Historic District! This festive village is filled with holiday fun, featuring food and beverage vendors, an official merchandise store, and plenty of Christmas photo opportunities.
November 27 – December 30, 2026.
Hometown Christmas Exhibit
Ever wonder how a small town like Grapevine became the Christmas Capital of Texas? Step inside the Hometown Christmas Exhibit and experience the charm of a classic American town getting ready for the holidays. From its beautifully decorated Christmas tree and cheerful carolers to the sweets shop, reindeer stables, and floral shop, this festive exhibit is filled with nostalgic displays and picture-perfect moments.
Tickets are available online for just $3 per person ages 3 and older.
November 27, 2026 – January 5, 2027. Closed Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
Ice! & Lone Star Christmas at The Gaylord Texan
If you’re visiting Grapevine this holiday season with family, make time for Gaylord Texan Resort, where a festive winter wonderland awaits! The resort’s signature attraction, ice! featuring Harry Potter™, brings the wizarding world to life through more than two million pounds of colorful, hand-carved ice. Walk through magical scenes inspired by the films, explore larger-than-life sculptures, and enjoy icy slides in a chilly 9-degree environment. Complimentary parkas are provided to keep you warm during the experience.
Beyond ice!, Lone Star Christmas offers plenty of activities for all ages. Go ice tubing down Snow Flow Mountain, glide around the indoor ice-skating rink, decorate gingerbread creations, join Mrs. Claus’ Christmas traditions, or enjoy the resort’s dazzling holiday lights and festive entertainment.
General admission to ice! starts at $34.32, with additional holiday activities and bundled passes available. You can also turn your visit into a full holiday getaway by booking an overnight stay at the resort.
November 13, 2026 – January 3, 2027. Times vary by activity.
Snow Flow Mountain (Ice Tubing)
Get ready for an exciting winter adventure at Snow Flow Mountain at Gaylord Texan! This six-lane tubing hill is made of real ice and lets you race family and friends down the slopes in a fun indoor setting. Challenge each other to see who reaches the bottom first, then head back up for another round!
Your ticket includes unlimited tubing runs throughout the day on your selected date, making it a fun activity for families and visitors looking for a little extra excitement during the holiday season.
Riders must be at least 42 inches tall and able to carry their own tube up the ramp without assistance. Tickets start at $19.99, with prices varying by date.
November 13, 2026 – January 3, 2027.
Christmas Carousel
Add a little nostalgia to your holiday visit with the Christmas Carousel at Gaylord Texan! This festive ride is fun for the whole family, featuring cheerful Christmas music and a classic carousel experience. Hop aboard, enjoy the twinkling holiday surroundings, and capture sweet memories with your loved ones.
You can choose between a single-ride ticket for $6.99 or an unlimited-ride ticket for $14.99, so the fun can last as long as you like!
November 13, 2026 – January 3, 2027.
Snowball Build & Blast
Get ready for some snowy fun at Snowball Build & Blast at Gaylord Texan! Grab a bucket of real snow, shape your own snowballs, and take aim at the illuminated targets. Each successful throw helps power the snowmaking machines, adding a playful twist to this festive winter activity.
Challenge your family and friends to see who can score the most points! One ticket includes one bucket of snow, and multiple people can share a bucket, making it a fun activity for all ages.
Tickets start at $12.99 per bucket.
November 13, 2026 – January 3, 2027.
Ice! On The Blocks
Take a break from the frosty fun and enjoy a drink at On The Blocks, the exclusive adults-only ice bar inside Gaylord Texan’s ice! featuring Harry Potter™. This unique experience lets guests 21 and older enjoy a seasonal holiday cocktail surrounded by icy décor, ambient lighting, and music. It’s also a fun spot to snap memorable photos while exploring the winter wonderland.
A separate On The Blocks ticket includes one featured drink, but you’ll also need a valid ICE! admission ticket to enter the attraction. Guests must be at least 21 years old to purchase the add-on and enter the bar.
November 13, 2026 – January 3, 2027. Specific operating dates and hours vary
Christmas Village
Step into a whimsical winter wonderland at Christmas Village inside Gaylord Texan! This festive Bavarian-style village is filled with charming storefronts, holiday decorations, live entertainment, and seasonal activities for the whole family.
Get your adrenaline pumping at Snow Flow Mountain, where you can race down icy tubing lanes, or join the fun at Snowball Build & Blast and test your aim with real snowballs. You can also enjoy a spin on the Christmas Carousel, browse the holiday shops for festive gifts and ornaments, and stop by Snowy’s Snack Shack for a warm cup of hot chocolate and seasonal treats.
With cheerful holiday characters, twinkling lights, and plenty of photo opportunities, Christmas Village is a fun place to explore and soak up the festive atmosphere during your visit.
November 13, 2026 – January 3, 2027.
Snowland at Great Wolf Lodge
Snowland at Great Wolf Lodge brings a festive winter wonderland to Grapevine, complete with sparkling Christmas decorations, seasonal games, crafts, dance parties, singalongs, and visits with Santa on select days. One of the highlights is the daily indoor snowfall in the Grand Lobby, adding a little winter magic to your Texas Christmas getaway.
The best part? You can enjoy the holiday fun and still make a splash at the resort’s climate-controlled indoor water park, which stays at a comfortable 84°F year-round. It’s the perfect combination of Christmas magic and waterpark adventures for the whole family!
You can also extend your holiday getaway with a visit to nearby Historic Main Street, where you’ll find even more Christmas attractions and festive activities.
Snowland activities are included with your resort stay, so you won’t need separate admission for the seasonal entertainment.
November 23, 2026 – January 5, 2027.
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.
Christmas Wine Train
Enjoy a festive adults-only evening aboard the Christmas Wine Train, a special holiday excursion hosted by Grapevine Vintage Railroad. This two-hour ride takes you through the Christmas season in beautifully decorated vintage coaches, with Santa and Mrs. Claus onboard and classic Christmas music playing in the background.
Guests can sip on Texas wine while enjoying two complimentary four-ounce glasses, a box of sweet bites for dessert, and a souvenir wine glass to remember the experience. Additional wine is also available for purchase. General Admission is $56 per person (tickets are sold in pairs for $112 per bench), and the experience is exclusively for guests ages 21 and older.
November 20, December 10 & 17, 2026, from 7:40 PM to approximately 9:40 PM.
You can also read our blog about Grapevine Urban Wine Trail.
Christmas Shows and Live Performances in Grapevine
Christmas at the Palace Theatre
Add a little holiday entertainment to your Grapevine getaway with Christmas at the Palace Theatre! Located along Historic Main Street, this beautifully restored theater hosts a festive lineup of Christmas concerts, live performances, and classic holiday movies throughout the season.
From Christmas tribute shows and family-friendly ballet performances to beloved holiday films like Elf, Home Alone, and It’s a Wonderful Life, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Little ones can also join Christmas Cartoons & Crafts, featuring classic favorites like Frosty the Snowman and fun seasonal activities.
November–December 2026. Selected dates and showtimes vary.
Nutcracker – Short and Sweet at The Palace Theatre
Enjoy a magical holiday ballet with Nutcracker – Short and Sweet, presented by North Central Ballet at Grapevine’s historic Palace Theatre. Follow a journey through dancing snowflakes to the Kingdom of the Sweets, brought to life through colorful performances set to Tchaikovsky’s famous score. Look forward to beloved pieces like the Spanish Dance, Arabian Dance, Waltz of the Flowers, and the Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy.
This family-friendly performance lasts about an hour, including an intermission, making it a lovely introduction to ballet for children and a delightful holiday outing for the whole family.
Tickets are $18 per person and available online. November 21 and 22, 2026, at 3 PM.
Home Alone
Get into the Christmas spirit with a screening of Home Alone (1990) at Grapevine’s historic Palace Theatre! This beloved holiday comedy follows eight-year-old Kevin McCallister, who is accidentally left behind when his family heads off on Christmas vacation. Suddenly home alone, Kevin must protect the house from two bumbling burglars using a series of hilarious traps and clever tricks.
It’s a fun opportunity to revisit this Christmas classic on the big screen in a charming historic theater.
Tickets are listed at $10 per person and are available online. November 28, December 18, 20, and 23, 2026.
Elvis Christmas Special starring Kraig Parker
Get ready for a rockin’ Christmas celebration with Kraig Parker, returning to Grapevine with his popular Elvis tribute show! Known for his striking resemblance to the King, powerful vocals, and captivating stage presence, Kraig brings the magic of Elvis Presley to life with a festive mix of beloved Christmas songs and classic hits.
Backed by the Royal Tribute Band, this two-hour concert with an intermission promises an entertaining evening for Elvis fans and holiday music lovers alike.
General admission tickets are $37, while VIP seating in Rows A–C is available for $47. Children’s tickets (under 12) are $20, and group discounts are available for parties of 20 or more.
Purchase your tickets online. December 6, 2026, at 4 PM.
Classic Christmas Cartoons & Craft
Bring the little ones to the Classic Christmas Cartoons & Crafts at Grapevine’s Lancaster Theatre for a cheerful holiday outing! Children can enjoy beloved Christmas cartoons, including favorites like Frosty the Snowman and A Year Without Santa, while taking part in a fun Christmas-themed craft activity.
Child tickets are $8 and include admission to the movie, a craft activity, a small popcorn, and a choice of juice or water. Adult tickets are $4 and include movie admission and a complimentary beverage. Children under 2 can attend for free but do not receive a craft kit. All children must be accompanied by an adult.
Purchase tickets online. Selected dates in December 2026.
A Christmas Story
Enjoy a holiday favorite on the big screen with A Christmas Story (1983) at Grapevine’s historic Palace Theatre! This beloved Christmas comedy follows young Ralphie Parker as he tries to convince his parents, teacher, and even Santa Claus that a Red Ryder BB gun is the perfect Christmas gift. With plenty of hilarious mishaps and memorable moments, it’s a fun way to revisit a holiday classic.
Tickets are available online for $10 per person. December 8, 2026, at 4 PM.
Animated Double Feature: A Charlie Brown Christmas & Frosty the Snowman
Enjoy two beloved holiday favorites on the big screen at Grapevine’s historic Palace Theatre! A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965) follows Charlie Brown as he searches for the true meaning of Christmas amid the holiday commercialism. Then, join the fun with Frosty the Snowman (1969), the heartwarming story of a snowman brought to life by a magical hat and his friendship with a young girl.
It’s a nostalgic Christmas movie experience that the whole family can enjoy!
Check ticket availability and purchase tickets online. December 21 and 22, 2026.
Christmas Shopping in Grapevine
Grapevine Christmas Market
Make holiday shopping part of your Christmas getaway at the Grapevine Christmas Market! Located in the Historic Cotton Belt Depot District, this festive market brings together artisan vendors, seasonal attractions, holiday activities, and plenty of photo opportunities. Browse handcrafted gifts, pick up unique souvenirs, and enjoy seasonal snacks while soaking up the Christmas atmosphere.
The market is a lovely place to find one-of-a-kind gifts while supporting local artisans and vendors.
November 23, 27 – December 30, 2026, from 11 AM to 9:30 PM daily. Closed December 24 and 25.
Grapevine Mills
If you’re looking for a convenient place to tackle your Christmas shopping, head to Grapevine Mills, one of North Texas’ largest shopping and entertainment destinations. This climate-controlled indoor mall features more than 165 stores, offering everything from clothing and accessories to shoes, gifts, and specialty items.
Make your visit even more special with a holiday photo at the Santa Photo Experience, running from November 14 through December 24, 2026. After shopping, take a break at one of the mall’s family-friendly restaurants or enjoy attractions like SEA LIFE Grapevine Aquarium, LEGOLAND Discovery Center, and Peppa Pig World of Play.
Christmas Pop-Up Bars and Photo Ops in Grapevine
Liberty Park Plaza
Make time for a Christmas photo stop at Liberty Park Plaza in Historic Downtown Grapevine! The area features Toyland, larger-than-life classic toys, and festive displays around the historic Torian and Bushong Log Cabins. You’ll also find charming holiday decorations, a Christmas tree farm, and a mistletoe photo spot, making it a fun place to capture family Christmas memories.
Town Square Gazebo
The Town Square Gazebo is another picture-perfect stop during Christmas in Grapevine. Snap photos with the oversized presents, festive sleigh, horse and carriage, and the beautifully decorated Christmas tree. For 2026, the display also features a new Christmas tree with a miniature train running inside a drum, along with a vintage Dodge truck that adds a little extra holiday charm.
Holly Jolly Bar
Enjoy a festive night out at the Holly Jolly Pop-Up Bar inside Third Rail at Harvest Hall. This holiday-themed bar brings Christmas decorations, seasonal cocktails, and live entertainment together for a cheerful evening in Grapevine. It’s a fun stop for adults looking to enjoy holiday drinks while exploring Historic Main Street.
The Holiday Hideaway
Get cozy at The Holiday Hideaway, Chicken N Pickle’s festive pop-up bar in Grapevine. Expect lodge-inspired decorations, seasonal cocktails, a build-your-own hot chocolate experience, and a relaxed atmosphere for holiday gatherings. Guests can also reserve a table for up to two hours, with reservation fees ranging from $5 to $10 per person.
Best Places for Santa Photos in Grapevine
Santa’s Wonderland at Bass Pro Shops
Make Christmas memories with a visit to Santa’s Wonderland at Bass Pro Shops in Grapevine! Families can enjoy a festive holiday setting and take a complimentary photo with Santa. Bass Pro Shops traditionally offers free Santa photos during November and December, with reservations available online.
Main Street Santa
Make your little ones’ Christmas extra special with a visit to Main Street Santa in Historic Downtown Grapevine. This longtime holiday favorite offers several photo packages, giving families the chance to capture special memories with Santa. You can also book a Story Time with Santa experience for an extra touch of Christmas magic.
Photo reservations and Story Time bookings for 2026 are open. Walk-ins are welcome on select days, but reservations are required from December 19–24, 2026. Packages start at $60, with options going up to $85.
Christmas Arts and Crafts Classes in Grapevine
Make Your Own Glass Snowman Ornament
Create a one-of-a-kind Christmas keepsake at Vetro Glassblowing Studio & Gallery! During its holiday ornament Help Create experience, you’ll work alongside an experienced glassblower to help make your own hand-blown glass snowman or traditional Christmas ornament. It’s a unique way to try something creative while watching the fascinating process of turning molten glass into a beautiful keepsake.
The experience costs $70 per person, and reservations are required. Hands-on participation is for ages 12 and up, although visitors of all ages are welcome to watch.
Christmas Craft Show with Santa and Mrs. Claus
Get a head start on your holiday shopping at the Christmas in Grapevine Craft Show! Held at the Grapevine Convention Center, this festive event features more than 95 vendor booths filled with handcrafted gifts, holiday decorations, and seasonal treats. Enjoy holiday music, free drawings, prizes, and complimentary photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Admission is $5 for adults, while children 12 and under and military personnel with ID can enter for free.
November 28, 2026, from 9 AM to 4 PM, and November 29, 2026, from 10 AM to 4 PM.
Christmas Celebration at Nash Farm
Step back in time and experience old-fashioned holiday traditions at Historic Nash Farm in Grapevine. The farm hosts several seasonal programs, including First Fridays at Nash Farm – Prairie Christmas on December 4 and Victorian Christmas on December 12. These events offer a chance to enjoy the charm of a historic farmstead during the holiday season.
You can also explore A Handmade Christmas, scheduled for December 15–31, 2026, for a festive look at traditional handmade holiday crafts.
Holiday Events In DFW
Candlelight: Christmas Classics
Enjoy the magic of Christmas music at a Candlelight concert in Fort Worth! Surrounded by the warm glow of hundreds of candles, a talented string quartet performs beloved holiday favorites, including Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy, Carol of the Bells, O Holy Night, and other seasonal classics.
The 60-minute concert is suitable for guests ages 8 and older. Anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Ticket prices vary by seating zone and date, so check the official listing for current availability.
December 15, 2026, at 6:30 PM and 8:45 PM at Fort Worth Botanic Garden.
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 2026.
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.
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:
Save This Guide for Later
Planning a future trip? Pin these images so you can come back to this guide when you are ready to plan.
About Me
Hi, I'm Jessica! I'm a Texas-based travel creator blending colorful style with local eats, nature escapes, weekends, road trips, and practical tips to help you make the most of where you live.
More About Me
Texas Travel Guide
Budget-friendly Texas trip ideas, weekend getaways, and favorite finds.
View the Guide