‘Tis the season when the city is aglow with bright lights and festivities! The magic of the holiday season has arrived, and nothing says Christmas like going on a hunt for the best places to see Christmas lights in Dallas! Lucky for you, we did the searching for you!
Whether you prefer drive-thru spectacles or enchanting walk-thru experiences, the Dallas area has it all! Join us as we explore the top spots to bask in the holiday spirit and witness the dazzling beauty of Dallas during our favorite time of year!
Free Events with Christmas Lights in Dallas
Cowboys Christmas Extravaganza
This holiday season, the Dallas Cowboys will host the seventh annual Cowboys Christmas Extravaganza powered by Reliant at The Star in Frisco every Friday and Saturday at 6 PM from November 22 to December 21. Cowboys Christmas Extravaganza powered by Reliant is a mesmerizing 20-minute show that illuminates The Star, blending the thrill of game day with the warmth of Christmas spirit on Tostitos Championship Plaza.
The event will kick off with a dazzling performance by the world-famous Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, followed by the lighting of a 67-foot LED Christmas tree by a Cowboys legend, and 66 gameday performers, including Dallas Cowboys Rhythm and Blue, Cowboys Rookie Squad, Rowdy, and a special appearance by Santa Claus. Highlights include a synchronized light display with original Christmas music and pyrotechnics.
The event is FREE and open to the public, with free onsite parking available. November 22, 2024 to December 21, 2024. The show starts at 6 PM.
The Shops at Highland Village
Come join “Our Village Glows,” a festive holiday tradition attracting thousands of residents. The event features the lighting of The Shop’s new Christmas tree in our renovated event space, “The Backyard.” Bring your whole family and engage in joyful activities like horse-drawn carriage rides, musical entertainment, face painting, cookie decorating, and ornament making, all culminating in Santa’s grand arrival by firetruck.
Capture memorable moments with a toy soldier stilt walker and Mrs. Claus! The tree lighting will take place at 6:30 pm, and raffle tickets will be available onsite for gift baskets, with one lucky family given the honor of joining Santa on stage. Your participation helps support the Highland Village Women’s Club.
The evening will conclude with the enchanting sounds of holiday classics performed by the Rosanna Eckert jazz quartet. November 23, 2024, from 5:30 PM to 8 PM.
Vitruvian Lights
Vitruvian Lights is one of the most anticipated Christmas light displays in Dallas. Located at the iconic Vitruvian Park, this immersive experience takes inspiration from the world of art and technology. Visitors can expect a mesmerizing journey through stunning light installations and interactive experiences.
On November 23, “Flip the Switch” will be at 6:00 p.m., marking the official start of the holiday season in Addison. From November 24, tree lights will be on daily from 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. The fun continues at Vitruvian Lights with the beloved Jordan Kahn Orchestra, delicious food trucks, and vendors if you need to shop.
You can also snap FREE photos with Santa, meet holiday characters, and enjoy an elf balloon artist’s talents. Plus, the tradition of writing letters to Santa is back. This year, Mrs. Claus and live reindeer will be present for fantastic holiday photos with the family. Event parking will be $15. New to Vitruvian Lights is a 3D walk-through gift box illuminated with LED lights, perfect for holiday photos! November 23, 2024, to January 1, 2025.
Christmas in the Square
Christmas in the Square is a magical holiday experience that should be on everyone’s list of places to visit in Dallas! This year marks the 19th anniversary of this largest choreographed holiday lights and music show in North Texas, with even more fun things planned, including Horse Carriage Rides, Visits with Santa, and more!
Choreographed by Frisco’s own Jeff Trykoski (Illumimax, LLC), the light and music extravaganza, will feature over 180,000 lights, 10 miles of wiring, 200 dancing snowflakes, and 8 miles of extension cords, all coming together to create an extraordinary spectacle.
With a newly upgraded 4,000 feet of roof, edge LED RGB lighting, and 3,000 feet of RGB color-changing canopy, this event is a dazzling testament to creativity and joy. Prepare for an unforgettable experience as the light show showcases 10 memorable songs, inviting you to join in for the first evening of lights on November 22nd, starting at 6 PM.
Along with the holiday lights and accompanying Christmas music in Frisco Square, there will also be ice skating (purchase a ticket for a one-hour session here; skate rental included). Click here for the complete schedule. The lights and music will be displayed daily from 6 PM until 10:00 PM. November 22, 2024, to January 6, 2025, from 6 PM to 10 PM.
The Gift of Light
This large corner property boasts a lawn decorated to the nine’s with with an assortment of holiday inflatables, from cute animals to Santa Claus and his elves. And that’s only a few! Surprisingly, the homeowners spent 2 months setting up the entire display!
There’s also a table with a QR code where you can read about the family’s struggles with heart disease and donate to the American Heart Association if you’d like.
This year, snowflakes were added to the roof, each one handcrafted by a chosen member of the community. 8624 Palermo Way, McKinney. Follow their Facebook page and check in the case of wet/rainy conditions to see if the display will be up. December 5, 2024 to January 1, 2025.
The Burkman Holiday Home
Step into the holiday magic at this festively decorated home, where each year brings delightful new surprises. From a charming Christmas village in the garage to over 300 lawn decorations and a dazzling display of 70,000 lights synchronized with festive music, this annual tradition is a joyous spectacle.
Beyond the enchanting decorations, the family’s heartwarming commitment includes raising funds for their charity, the Burkman Foundation, which provides scholarships to young adults with cognitive disabilities.
Cash is accepted in person at the Burkman Holiday home, but they also utilize Venmo @burkmanholidayhome and Zelle (burkmanholidayhomefrisco@gmail.com). 3809 Hazelhurst Drive, Frisco. December 20 to December 28, 2024, from 5:30 PM to 11 PM.
Centennial Holiday Lights
Experience the magic of the holiday season with Centennial Park’s Centennial Christmas Lights in Dallas. The park transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland, adorned with an astonishing 60,000 twinkling lights that drape elegantly over the fences, wrap around the trees, and illuminate the majestic bridge.
Each walkway is bordered by soft, glowing lights, ensuring that visitors can navigate the paths safely even after the sun sets. This cherished holiday tradition is supported by dedicated staff, who are available around the clock to assist and enhance the experience. Portable restrooms are conveniently located onsite for visitor comfort.
Stroll through the beautifully illuminated pathways, marvel at the sparkling decorations, and bask in the warmth of the holiday spirit. Other free displays are nearby at Heritage Park, Main Street, and the Whistlestop Plaza Clock Tower! Fridays and Saturdays, December 7 to December 21, 2024, from 8 PM to 10 PM.
The Colony Christmas Spectacular
This annual celebration transforms The Colony’s Central Fire Station into a dazzling display of lights and decorations. The Colony Christmas Spectacular is more than just a visual feast; it’s an auditory delight as well.
Tune your car radio to 99.9 FM as the synchronized music fills the air, perfectly complementing the dazzling light show and creating an immersive experience that will linger in your memory long after the lights dim.
Children will marvel at the captivating displays, while adults will appreciate the intricate craftsmanship and the heartwarming atmosphere. Gather your loved ones and create lasting memories under the enchanting glow of The Colony Christmas Spectacular. December 7, 2024, to January 5, 2025. Sunday to Thursday: 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM. Fridays and Saturdays: 5:30 PM to 10:50 PM.
Merry & Bright Christmas Drone Show
Get ready to be amazed by the Merry & Bright Drone Show. This innovative event takes the traditional Christmas lights display to new heights, quite literally!
Instead of traditional decorations, witness a coordinated and high-tech holiday season celebration in the night sky over Main Street Grapevine, TX. This spectacular performance of over 400 drones in the Christmas Capital of Texas is choreographed to illuminate the night with vibrant lights and festive music. It’s a unique and modern take on the holiday lights that will leave you in awe!
Traffic along Historic Main Street will be halted during the event, allowing visitors to stroll freely and enjoy the show. Your best bet is to show up early, park at the Grapevine Main garage, and view the show from Peace Plaza in front of Grapevine Main Station on December 2. December 2, 2024, at 7 PM.
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More Places with Free Christmas Lights
- Plano
- 1000 Clinton Dr.
- Biscayne Dr.
- Ports O’Call Ct. – Stay updated by following their Facebook page.
- Deerfield
- Farmers Branch
- Klyde Warren Park
- Firewheel Town Center (Garland)
- Watters Creek in Allen
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Ticketed Events with Christmas Lights in Dallas
Holiday at the Arboretum
The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden hosts one of the city’s most popular Christmas light displays. Reported as “Texas’ Best Christmas Event” by Southern Living Magazine, this beloved holiday tradition transforms the Arboretum into a mesmerizing winter wonderland, featuring a magnificent 50-foot musical Christmas tree adorned with over 40,000 lights and a charming Christmas Village that comes alive with performances by talented local musicians and artists. Seasonal programming includes magical visits from Santa and delightful special treats, creating an atmosphere filled with joy and wonder.
One of the highlights of Holiday at the Arboretum is the 12 Days of Christmas exhibit. This beloved display features Victorian-style gazebos depicting each of the 12 gifts from the iconic Christmas carol and its namesake, “The 12 Days of Christmas.” This year’s celebration marks a significant milestone as the Arboretum commemorates the 10th anniversary of the 12 Days of Christmas, the exhibit that began it all.
Visitors can stroll through the gardens and admire the detailed decorations, which are sure to get everyone in the holiday spirit. It’s also a great place to snap some holiday photos for your Christmas cards or your social media feed!
The Dallas Arboretum hosts various special events, including Holiday Entertainment, where you can enjoy live, seasonal performances in the Christmas Village, Sweets & Treats with Santa, chef-tastic Cooking Demos, Holiday Dinner, and more. Click here to check out the full lineup of events.
The daytime schedule is from 9 AM to 5 PM. The nighttime schedule is 6 PM to 9 PM. Ticket prices range from $13 to $37. November 13, 2024, to January 5, 2025.
Dallas Zoo Lights Presented by Reliant
Stroll through a luminous setting adorned with over two million twinkling lights and 60 larger-than-life animal lanterns. The festive spirit extends beyond the animal kingdom with a traveling art exhibit, after-hour rides, holiday-themed photo ops, live music, pictures with Santa, crafts, sensory-friendly nights, holiday treats, and more!
This year, you can visit DinoLand and witness the dinosaurs lit up before their final farewell (included in your Dallas Zoo Lights admission). Another must-visit attraction is Dino Lumina: A Jurassic Journey, a one-of-a-kind immersive projection experience that brings the prehistoric world to life as you roam with dinosaurs.
Add some extra cheer to your visit by opting for a Cocoa & Glow tote bag filled with sweet treats, savory vanilla popcorn for snacking, a cuddly plush stuffed animal, and warm cocoa served in a festive holiday souvenir cup. With a glow necklace to light up the night and 3D light-enhancing glasses, your experience at Dallas Zoo Lights will truly dazzle! Admission tickets range from $13 to $22.50 and can be purchased online. Open select nights from November 22, 2024, to January 4, 2025, from 5:30 PM to 9 PM.
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Illumination Celebration
No holiday lights tour is complete without a visit to some impressive Christmas trees. One tree that always stands out is the towering 100-foot-tall, beautiful festive house of a Christmas village., known as “The USA’s Tallest Indoor Christmas Tree.”
This majestic tree in Dallas is a must-see attraction, and it becomes even more enchanting when you skate around the mall’s iconic ice rink, accompanied by holiday tunes and a show with synchronized Christmas lights. General admission is $12, and skate rentals are $5. Skating is first-come, first-served.
You catch the Illumination Celebration daily from November 29, 2024 to December 24, 2024 at 12 PM, 2 PM, 4 PM, and 6 PM.
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Dallas Zoo After Dark
Dallas Zoo After Dark is a magical event that transforms Dallas Zoo into a winter wonderland for adults 21 and up. Guests can enjoy the zoo’s dazzling light displays, as well as special holiday activities, animal meet-and-greets, fun holiday games and activities, live musical performances, photo ops with Santa, food trucks, and drinks.
Brighten your experience by opting for a Cocoa & Glow tote bag filled with a sweet treat, vanilla popcorn, a cuddly plush animal, cozy cocoa in a souvenir cup, a glow necklace, and 3D glasses to enhance Dallas Zoo Lights!
General admission is $35 for non-members and $25 for members. Parking is available at $12. However, if you’re a member, parking is complimentary! December 12, 2024, from 6 PM to 9 PM.
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Ticketed Events with Christmas Lights in DFW
The Light Park
The Light Park is an unforgettable drive-thru experience that will leave you in awe. This festive light spectacle features over a million twinkling lights synchronized to a lively mix of holiday-themed music. A boost of fun awaits with delicious treats and exciting drinks, ready to dazzle with brilliance.
It’s a must-visit destination for families and friends looking for an exciting and memorable holiday experience. Whether you’re a local or just visiting Dallas, this drive-thru extravaganza will mesmerize you and fill you with the joy of the season.
The Light Park is open daily from 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM, Sunday through Thursday, and 5:30 PM to 11:00 PM on Fridays & Saturdays. The price is $39 per car online and $59 at the gate. There are two locations in North Texas: Arlington and Frisco. Open daily from November 1, 2024, to January 5, 2025.
Merry & Bright Drone Show VIP Watch Party
Experience the holiday spirit in the Christmas Capital of Texas® at a VIP Merry & Bright Christmas Drone Watch Party! Proceeds will support MetroPort Meals on Wheels. This ticketed VIP watch party will be on the second-floor balcony of the Grapevine Convention and Visitors Bureau Grand Hall for the perfect view. Be above the crowds in an exclusive room with amazing balcony views of the show. Be above the crowds in an exclusive room with amazing balcony views of the show. $75 per person. December 9, 2024, from 6:30 PM to 7:15 PM.
Christmas at Gaylord Texan
For a truly magical Christmas experience, head to the Gaylord Texan Resort for their annual ICE! attraction. This year, the theme is Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer™!
Step inside ICE! presented by PEPSI® and Lexus, and discover a holiday wonderland like no other as you navigate through the breathtaking sculptures, glide down exhilarating frozen slides, and journey through stunning tunnels.
You can also tube down a two-story-tall ice slide, throw real snowballs, navigate through an enchanting ice palace, complete with tunnels and arches, challenge yourself in the themed escape rooms, and even ice skate indoors on real ice!
There will also be fun, kid-friendly activities like cookie decorating, a Christmas carousel, make-your-own Christmas gifts at Santa’s Workshop, photos with Santa, and story time with Mrs. Claus. For the adults, there will be a bar on-site.Prices vary by activity. Tickets can be purchased online. November 15, 2024, to January 5, 2025.
Radiance at the Ranch
Radiance at the Ranch is the North Texas’ #1 Holiday drive-thru Light spectacle located at Parker County Sheriff’s Posse in Weatherford. Gather your family and enjoy a cozy cup of hot chocolate as you witness a breathtaking display of sparkling lights synchronized with beloved holiday classics from the warmth of your vehicle! This season marks the FOURTH MAGICAL YEAR with the Parker County Sheriff’s Posse, celebrating with new enchanting scenes and more lights than ever before.
Make this Christmas unforgettable with a VIP option that offers shorter wait times on busy nights, delicious hot chocolate, magical light glasses for the kids, and popcorn for all! (Max. 8 people per vehicle).
Tickets are available for purchase online for just $29.95 per car for general admission and $49.95 for VIP admission. November 22, 2024 to December 28, 2024, from 6 PM to 9 PM (10 PM on Fridays and Saturdays).
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Lightscape
The third annual Lightscape event at the picturesque Fort Worth Botanic Garden is a spectacular collaboration with Sony Music that features custom-designed light installations set against the serene backdrop of nature. Stroll along glimmering pathways and marvel at breathtaking, never-before-seen artistic displays from around the world, immersing yourself in the magic of the holiday season.
This year’s installations will feature 80% new Christmas displays and over a million twinkling lights synced to a symphony of music, all along a mile-long path.
Guests can look forward to an all-new Christmas Village with fire pits, s’mores, hot cocoa, holiday music, and photo ops with Santa on select nights. Tickets range from $12 to $30 and can be purchased online. November 22, 2024, to January 5, 2025, from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM nightly.
Miracle on 134th Street
Over 2 million Christmas lights transform the forest into a mesmerizing wonderland. At the heart of it all is Santa’s 8500-square-foot workshop, where moments become cherished memories in Celina, TX.
Enjoy a free Meet and Greet with Santa and Mrs. Claus and capture the magic with a photo taken by one of the elves. Amidst the twinkling lights, indulge in Mrs. Claus’s hot cocoa or unwind at one of the many s’more’s pits.
Ensure the kids hop on Santa’s Carousel of Lights. 5:30 pm to 9 pm. Tickets are available online for between $18 and $46. Open select days from November 23, 2024 to December 23, 2024, from 5:30 PM to 9 PM.
Prairie Lights
Prairie Lights is Texas’s premier holiday light park in the enchanting Lynn Creek Park in Grand Prairie. As you enter, be captivated by 4 million dazzling lights illuminating 2 miles of pathway. Be inspired by hundreds of ALL-NEW displays in extraordinary shapes that gracefully line and arch over the roads.
In 2024, the lights display will proudly showcase its signature Holiday Village. At the halfway point, take a moment to step out of your vehicle and immerse yourself in FREE carnival rides, delightful concessions, heartwarming photos with Santa, a reimagined magical walk-thru forest, and the joy of holiday shopping! The second half of your journey culminates in the ALL NEW, one-of-a-kind LED light tunnel—a breathtaking finale to a night that promises unforgettable memories!
You can also skip general admission lines with the Pre-Paid Fast Pass and enter Prairie Lights through a special entrance!
The price is $50 per car for general admission and $149 per car for a fast pass. Tickets are available online. Open every night from November 28, 2024 to December 31, 2024, at 6 PM.
Lights on the Farm
Lights on the Farm at Heritage Museum in Plano is a charming event that takes you on a journey through time. Its historical farm setting is adorned with festive lights and decorations.
Walk along a quarter-mile trail illuminated by the warm glow of over 1 million lights and handcrafted, animated displays while immersing yourself in the nostalgia of a bygone era.
Treat yourself to delicious goodies like hot cocoa and donuts, and roast your very own s’mores by the fire. You can also expect Santa to visit!
The Heritage Museum will also host several special costumed character nights, including Frozen Adventure Night, Grinch Night, Superhero Night, and Princess Night! See their website for more!
Parking at Lights on the Farm is free. Tickets range from $7 to $15. They can be purchased online. November 22, 2024 to December 28, 2024, from 6 PM to 9:30 PM.
Gift of Lights at Texas Motor Speedway
The Gift of Lights at Texas Motor Speedway is a spectacular holiday attraction that will leave you in awe. Visitors can drive through the enchanting route, making it a perfect family outing. With the dazzling lights and the holiday spirit in the air, the Gift of Lights at Texas Motor Speedway is a must-see destination for Christmas lights.
Bundle up in your coziest attire, grab your favorite snacks and drinks, and embark on a drive-thru adventure that will leave you merry and bright. The price starts at $35 per car and can be purchased online or at the gate. November 28, 2024, to January 5, 2025, from 6 PM to 9 PM daily.or 10pm daily.
Other Christmas Things to Do and Places To Visit in Dallas
Beyond Christmas lights, Dallas offers a wealth of holiday activities. From festive pop-ups and shopping to elegant dinners, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss Christmas at the Dallas Galleria, with ice skating, photos with Santa, and the Illumination Celebration. Also, catch the Dallas Ballet’s 38th annual performance of The Nutcracker for a truly magical experience. For a complete guide to celebrating Christmas in Dallas, check out our comprehensive guide to Things to Do to Celebrate Christmas in Dallas TX.
Best Places to See Christmas Lights in Dallas, TX: FAQs
Where to Find the Most Spectacular Christmas Lights in Dallas
Dallas is a winter wonderland for Christmas lights. Some of the most spectacular displays include:
- Dallas Zoo Lights – The Dallas Zoo transforms into a magical land of lights, featuring illuminated displays, lanterns, and a chance to see some nocturnal animals.
- Vitruvian Lights in Addison – Vitruvian Park in Addison offers a stunning display with millions of sparkling lights adorning the trees, creating a dazzling experience perfect for a festive stroll.
- The 12 Days of Christmas at the Dallas Arboretum – The Arboretum presents a unique exhibition with elaborate Victorian-style gazebos decorated to depict scenes from “The 12 Days of Christmas.”
Where is Lights All Night Dallas?
Lights All Night is an annual electronic dance music festival held in Dallas, Texas. The 2-day event will occur on December 28 and 29, 2024 at the Dallas Market Hall, Stemmons Fwy, Dallas. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, stunning light shows, and performances by top DJs and electronic artists, Lights All Night is a must-visit for EDM enthusiasts looking to celebrate New Year’s Eve with an unforgettable experience.
What is the Biggest Christmas Town in Texas?
The biggest Christmas town in Texas is Grapevine. Known as the “Christmas Capital of Texas,” Grapevine goes all out for the holiday season with over 1,400 Christmas events spanning 40 days. Highlights include the North Pole Express on the Grapevine Vintage Railroad, the enchanting Grapevine Christmas Village, and the spectacular Parade of Lights. The entire town is adorned with millions of twinkling lights, offering a festive atmosphere and a wide array of activities for all ages.
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Best Places to See Christmas Lights in Dallas TX: Final Thoughts
The holiday season in Dallas is truly enchanting, as the city bursts with magnificent Christmas light displays that cater to all tastes, from classic charm to cutting-edge technology. Whether you prefer the timeless elegance of traditional decorations or the modern magic of high-tech displays, Dallas has something for everyone!
So, gather your loved ones and embark on a journey to explore all the best places to see Christmas lights in Dallas! Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!
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Last Updated 41 seconds ago by Jessica Serna | Published: November 16, 2023
