The holidays are right around the corner, and for many, that includes holiday shopping, dinner parties, and other ways to celebrate Christmas in Dallas!
From classical holiday music to Christmas pop-ups, Dallas is devoted to a gleeful and magical holiday season this year. Read on to learn about the endless ways to celebrate Christmas in Dallas, including themed bars and restaurants, and start planning some festive-filled adventures with the family!
@mycurlyadventures Dallas is that unexpected holiday destination you didn’t know you needed to visit #dallas #texas #christmaslights ♬ Sleigh Bells (PhatCap! Trap Remix) – Ronettes
Other Dallas Holiday Blog Posts
Holiday Christmas Bars & Restaurants
Best Places to See Christmas Lights in DFW
Plan a Holiday Staycation at the Adolphus Hotel
Holiday Blog Posts Across Texas
Fun Christmas Things to Do in Austin
How to Spend Christmas in Fredericksburg
Fun Christmas Things to Do in Houston
Fun Christmas Things to Do in San Antonio
How to Spend Christmas in Boerne
With our latest edition of our Texas Travel Guide, you can take an exciting vacation every
weekend without breaking the bank and still have more to do! And in just one trip, the guide
pays for itself! You’ll be amazed at all the hidden gems, international influence, and wacky
attractions you’ll find all over Texas!
Not ready to purchase quite yet? We wanted to make this guide as accessible as possible, so
we’ve shared our 1st edition of our guide, 50 Texas Trips Under $50. Click the button below
to get yours for FREE!
Celebrate Christmas at the Dallas Galleria Mall
For information such as scheduling and ticket pricing (if applicable), visit their website.
- Enjoy a timeless European Circus featuring holiday-themed puppets, magicians, clowns, contortionists, and jugglers in a fun show for the whole family. You can catch it Friday, Nov. 24 and on Saturdays, Nov. 25 – Dec. 23, 2023 at 1pm and 3pm. FREE!
- Attend the Grand Tree Lighting Celebration and experience a spectacular ice-skating show, featuring Olympic skaters and the Galleria’s renowned ice-skating Santa, followed by indoor fireworks! Events will be Nov. 24, 2023, at 12pm & Nov. 25, 2023, at 12pm. FREE! <Watch Video>
- Accompanied by a spectacular music and light show, watch the nation’s tallest indoor Christmas tree come to life! Nov. 24 – Dec. 24, 2023 at 12pm, 2pm, 4pm, 6pm and 8pm. FREE!
- Come by and meet lovable, adoptable dogs and cats from Operation Kindness. Nov. 24 – Dec. 24, 2023, on Thursdays – Saturdays, from 10am – 6pm and Sundays from 12pm – 6pm.
- Listen to Mrs. Claus’ favorite Christmas stories during this holiday storytime. Nov. 25- Dec. 23, 2023, at 11:30am. FREE!
- More than 70 local groups will showcase their talent by performing beloved holiday favorites throughout the center. The dates are Mon – Fri: Nov. 27, 2023 – Dec. 20, 2023. 11am, 1pm, 3pm and 5pm. FREE!
- Join in the holiday festivities at Galleria Dallas with a ticketed skating show benefiting The Family Place and Broadway Dallas. The Grand Holiday Ice Show will be hosted on Dec. 3 & 10, 2023 at 9am. Reservations are $150 for an “igloo” fitting up to 6 guests.
- Join in celebrating the first night of Hanukkah with the lighting of a large-scale Menorah and insightful remarks by Temple Shalom. Dec. 7, 2023, at 6pm.
Cute Photo Ops & More at SNOWDAY
SNOWDAY is an immersive event featuring over 20 festive photo ops, perfect for your feed or annual Christmas cards! Created by the creatives at Baymo Studios, SNOWDAY takes you on an interactive adventure through more than 20 imaginative rooms filled with hundreds of surprises.
The experience lasts for about an hour. Nov. 17, 2023 to Jan. 7, 2024. Tickets range from $10 to $75, depending on age and peak times. Tickets are available online.
Ride the SANTALAND Express
Enjoy a multi-sensory immersive train experience through a magical moonlit forest and enchanted path filled with starry surprises, including polar bears and Santa himself! Nov. 17 to Dec. 24, 2023. Get your tickets online, which range from $10 to $90 depending on age and peak times.
Related Post: Fun Dallas Date Ideas & Things to Do
‘Lots of Food & Festive Drinks – Christmas in Dallas
Dallas has no shortage of Christmas-themed bars and restaurants! So many in fact we had to dedicate a whole post to it. Read about all the festive places to dine and drink in Dallas!
Christmas Shows in Dallas
The Nutcracker
An adaptation of E.T.A. Hoffmann’s 1816 short story “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King,” this captivating ballet is about a young girl named Clara who embarks on a magical journey on Christmas Eve after her toy nutcracker comes to life as a prince. This heartwarming tale is filled with delightful characters, enchanting music by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, and the timeless spirit of Christmas.
Below is a list of venues across Dallas hosting this classic Christmas performance:
Winspear Opera House & Bass Performance Hall
Performed by the Texas Ballet Theater. Tickets start at $25 and can be purchased here. Nov. 24 – 26, Nov. 30, Dec. 1 – 3, 2023.
The Dallas Ballet Center
Performed by the Dallas Ballet Company for their 37th annual performance of The Nutcracker. Ticket are sold out, but you can purchase the livestream performance for $40 here. Dec 1- 10, 2023.
Moody Performance Hall & Will Rogers Memorial Auditorium
Performed by Avant Chamber Ballet. Tickets start at $31.50 and can be purchased online for either venue here. Dec. 8 at 7pm, Dec. 9 at 2pm and 7pm, Dec. 10 at 2pm in Dallas; Dec. 22 at 7pm and Dec. 23 at 2pm in Fort Worth.
Majestic Theatre
Espresso Nutcracker performed by the Dallas Black Dance Academy. Tickets start at $55. Purchase tickets here. Dec. 9, 2023 at 7pm.
Performing Arts Center at Allen High School
Allen Civic Ballet, featuring guest artists Stephanie Rae Williams and Elias Re from the Dance Theater of Harlem, and accompanied by the Allen Philharmonic Orchestra. Tickets start at $20. Dec. 9 at 7pm & Dec. 10, 2023 at 2pm.
Fair Park Music Hall
Returning for their 30th anniversary, the Ukrainian Principal Artists will be performing alongside young, local Dallas artists from local studio, the Dance Movement. Tickets start at $59 and can be purchased online. Dec. 10, 2023, 3pm and 7pm.
Frontiers of Flight Museum
Add a twinkle to your holiday calendar with Dallas’ Candlelight: Holiday Special featuring The Nutcracker — held in the enchanting atmosphere of Frontiers of Flight Museum, bathed in candlelight.
This event presents the timeless pieces of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker performed by a talented local string quartet. Beyond the ballet, the evening will be filled with a selection of holiday classics that capture the essence of the season. Please note that all merry-makers under the age of 16 need to be joined by an adult.
Dec. 17 and Dec. 23, 2023 at 6:45 pm and 8:45 pm. Ticket price ranges from $29 – $66. Purchase your tickets here.
More Christmas Performances in Dallas
It’s a Wonderful Life – Deaf Theatre
The Egelston Akers Black Box Theatre at the Willow Bend Center of the Arts will portray this classic tale as a 1940s radio show performed by both deaf and hearing actors. Please note that the show contains mentions of suicide, though no death is depicted on stage. Tickets begin at $12 and are available online. Nov. 17 at 7pm, Nov. 18 at 2pm and 7pm, & Nov. 19, 2023 at 2pm.
A Charlie Brown Christmas at the Dallas Children’s Theater
Join Charlie Brown, Linus, Lucy, Snoopy, and friends in rediscovering the true reason for the season, accompanied by live music. There will also be “ice-skating” at the Baker Theater after the show. Tickets start at $29 and are available here. Nov. 25 – Dec. 23, 2023.
A Christmas Carol at the Dallas Theater Center
Join Ebenezer Scrooge on a transformative journey as three spirits visit him, guiding him through Christmases past, present, and future. Brimming with joyful songs, magical spirits, and holiday cheer, this classic tale is a heartwarming story of joy, redemption, and the true spirit of Christmas. Tickets start at $40.50 and are available online. Nov. 30 – Dec. 30, 2023.
Christmas Pops at the Meyerson Symphony Center
Popular holiday vocalists will join the Dallas Symphony Orchestra and the choruses, performing classical Christmas favorites and sing-along carols. Santa will also make an appearance! Tickets start at $55. Dec. 1 – 10, 2023.
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever at Theatre Coppell
A couple attempts to organize a church Christmas pageant, only to face the challenge of casting the mischievous Herdman kids – possibly the most creatively troublesome kids ever. Tickets are $22 for adults and $19 for seniors and students *plus fees. 2023 dates are: Dec. 1, 2, 8, 9, 15 and 16 at 8pm; Dec. 3, 10 and 17 at 2:30pm.
A Very Sinatra Christmas Special at The Artisan in Dallas
Dallas decks the halls with its own swingin’ style at “A Very Sinatra Christmas Special,” where the smooth sounds of Sinatra’s best-loved Christmas tunes fill the air.
A top-notch local jazz vocalist will take the stage, bringing to life the holiday spirit with the same charisma and charm that made Sinatra a legend. It’s a perfect blend of nostalgia and celebration, set in the modern and elegant venue, the Artisan.
Dec. 7, 13 and 20, 2023, with showings at 6pm and 8:30pm. Ticket prices ranges from $45 to $70 per person. Purchase your tickets here.
The 24 Days Before Christmas at the Ennis Public Theatre
In this adaptation of Madeleine L’Engle’s The 24 Days Before Christmas, follow Vicky Austin’s journey as she navigates her role as the youngest angel in the Christmas Pageant, all while anticipating the arrival of a new sibling. Dec. 7 – Dec. 17, 2023.
The Trans-Siberian Orchestra at Dickies Arena
TSO’s performance of “The Ghosts of Christmas Eve” tells the story of a runaway little girl who decides to return to her family after she enters a rundown theater for shelter and encounters the spectral performers. Created by TSO’s late founder Paul O’Neill, “The Ghosts of Christmas Eve” has been a cornerstone of their holiday performances, with narration by award-winning actor Ossie Davis. Tickets begin at $59 and can be purchased online. Dec. 8, 2023, 3pm and 7:30pm.
Candlelight: A Jazzy Holiday ft. Ella Fitzgerald – Sold Out
Swing into the festive season with “Candlelight: A Jazzy Holiday,” where Dallas jazzes up the holidays with the smooth tunes of the greats — Ella Fitzgerald, Nat King Cole, Louis Armstrong, and more.
Imagine sitting in a softly lit room, filled with the iconic jazz renditions of classic holiday songs that have shaped the sound of Christmas for generations. The ambient glow of candles creates the perfect backdrop for the soulful melodies.
Mark your calendars for Dec. 14, 15 and 16, 2023 at the Filter Building. There will be showings at 6:30 pm and 8:45 pm. Ticket prices ranges from $37 – $65. Purchase your tickets here.
A Magical Cirque Christmas at Texas Trust CU Theatre
Witness extraordinary feats, acrobatics, and performances brings excitement of Christmas to life on stage. Tickets start at $29. Dec. 14, 2023 at 7:30pm.
The Polyphonic Spree at Majestic Theatre
Enjoy your favorite holiday classics with a unique blend of a choir, diverse instruments, and a fusion of pop and rock sounds from the Polyphonic Spree. Tickets start at $102 and can be purchased online. Dec. 15, 2023 at 7pm.
Jose Hernandez’ Merry-achi Christmas at Majestic Theatre
A Merry-achi Christmas, presented by Mariachi Sol de Mexico de Jose Hernandez, is a mix of Mexican and American holiday tunes, along with other festive music. Tickets start at $79 and can be purchased online! Dec. 23, 2023, from 7pm – 10pm.
Related Post: Best Things to Do, Restaurants & Hotels in Dallas
Celebrate Christmas in Dallas: Give Back
Adopt an Angel
The Salvation Army Angel Tree will be at the NorthPark Mall from Nov. 3 to Dec. 2, 2023. Select an Angel and donate presents, clothing, and necessities. Drop off your unwrapped gifts at The Salvation Army Mobile Truck, located in the northeast parking lot at NorthPark on December 1 and 2 between 11:30 AM and 5 PM.
There will also be a Salvation Army Angel Tree at the Galleria Mall. Choose an Angel by December 2 and drop off your unwrapped gifts at the Drive Through Gift Drop Off on Dec. 1 and 2 between 11:30am and 5:30pm. The Salvation Army will deliver them in time for Christmas. Nov. 3 – Dec. 2, 2023.
Benefit the Children’s Advocacy Center of Collin County
Make memories with Santa at the Fairview Town Center! Simply choose a timeslot and your $10 booking fee includes a gift for each child, and photos by one of Santa’s Helpers with your camera/phone. All proceeds from the booking fee will be donated to the Children’s Advocacy Center of Collin County. Nov. 18 and Dec. 23, 2023.
Donate to the Salvation Army
Spread the holiday cheer at NorthPark, by giving your spare change to The Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign. This initiative raises essential funds for year-round programs at over a dozen Salvation Army centers in North Texas. Digital gifting options are also available for added convenience. Nov. 24 – Dec. 24, 2023.
Participate in a Toy Drive
Enjoy the magical atmosphere of Adriatica Village in McKinney and lots of fun, family-friendly events. All toys donated at their annual Toy Drive will go to the Boys & Girls Club and you’ll be entered for a chance to win a $250 gift card. Admission to this event is free and tokens are available for some of the activities. Dec. 9, 2023 from 11am – 4pm.
You can also drop off your toy and book donations at the Stonebriar Centre through Nov. 30, 2023. The drop box can be found near the children’s play area.
Volunteer or Donate to the North Texas Community food Bank
Volunteering or donating to the North Texas Community Food Bank is a heartfelt and impactful way to give back. It’s the season for giving, and there’s no better way to feel the holiday spirit than by helping folks in our area who could use a hand.
As a volunteer, you can help in a variety of ways, such as sorting and packing food, distributing food at mobile pantries, or helping with administrative tasks. If you are unable to volunteer, you can still make a difference by donating food or money. Let’s show what the holidays are all about: sharing, caring, and community.
Best Free Christmas Events in Dallas
Light the Night at Watters Creek (Nov. 18, 2023)
Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with caroling, children’s crafts, hot cocoa, carriage rides, and live entertainment at “Light the Night!” The festivities kick off at 4:30 pm.
At 6:30 pm, Santa makes a grand entrance to illuminate the tree, adorned with 145,000 lights synchronized to music, culminating in a dazzling fireworks show. 4:30pm to 6:30pm.
Enjoy photos with Santa, story time with Mrs. Claus, face painting, crafts, games, and even experience the magic of snow flurries! The day culminates with a live show featuring performances of holiday music, appearances by Santa’s friends Frosty and Rudolph, and, of course, the highlight of Klyde Warren Park’s annual Christmas tree lighting. Dec. 2, 2023, from 3pm – 6pm.
Grandscape Holiday Kick-Off (Nov. 18, 2023)
Get into the holiday spirit at the Grandscape Holiday Kick-Off! There will be live performances on the stage, carolers, and a holiday vendor market.
Capture the joy of the season with pictures with Santa and marvel at the real reindeer for a touch of Christmas wonder.
For the little ones, there’s a special letters to Santa station, and everyone can warm up with hot cocoa shared with beloved holiday characters. 4pm to 8pm.
Then, through Dec. 22, there will be a number of events where you can enjoy festive markets, explore homestead stores, meet the Grinch, decorate cookies with Mrs. Claus, indulge in a holiday movie marathon and much more! Check out their website for a list of upcoming events.
Lights at Legacy (Nov. 19, 2023)
Enjoy the holiday festivities with complimentary train rides, balloon artists, toy soldier stilt walkers, little drummer boys, live entertainment, and complimentary food and drink samples from The Shops at Legacy retailers and restaurants. 4pm to 7pm. Santa photos are from 4pm to 6:15pm with 50% of the proceeds benefiting My Possibilities.
Christmas on the Farm (Nov. 24-26, Dec. 2-3, 2023)
If you want a Christmas with a little country flair, you’ve got to go to Christmas on the Farm at Tx-Ture Farm.
Take a magical ride on the PACA Express, a barrel train ride that takes you through the farm’s Christmas tree fields, where you’ll spot alpacas grazing peacefully. Plus, you can wander the local artisan market and find all kinds of awesome handmade gifts.
It’s a laid-back place with plenty of laughs, good eats, and maybe even a new alpaca friend to selfie with.
Texas Christkindl Market (Nov. 24 – Dec. 23, 2023)
The largest open-air holiday market in the Southwest, the 13th Annual Texas Christkindl Market in Arlington is a festive and family-friendly market offering a special shopping experience for unique holiday gifts and decorations.
Enjoy tree lighting ceremonies, live entertainment, a variety of vendors, and the chance to meet St. Nikolaus (hours may vary). Don’t forget Fur-Family Fridays, where even pets can join in the festive fun! North Plaza at Globe Life Field. 11am to 8pm.
Christmas at the Perry (Nov. 30, Dec. 7 & 14, 2023)
Embark on a magical journey through Pearl Perry Gravley Park in Carrollton as it transforms into a winter wonderland of glowing lights. Take a leisurely stroll and peek into the Christmas huts, offering a glimpse of holiday celebrations from the turn of the 20th century.
Step inside the Perry home, adorned in traditional Victorian-style Christmas decor with a modern twist, and immerse yourself in a world of holiday wonders. Capture precious family moments with enchanting photo opportunities, both indoors and outdoors. 5:30pm to 8pm.
Sounds of the Season at Stonebriar (Dec. 1-15, 2023)
Live Christmas music will be performed daily by local groups and schools inside the Stonebriar Centre.
Holidays in Klyde Warren Park (Dec. 2, 2023)
Enjoy photos with Santa, story time with Mrs. Claus, face painting, crafts, games, and even experience the magic of snow flurries! The day culminates with a live show featuring performances of holiday music, appearances by Santa’s friends Frosty and Rudolph, and of course, Klyde Warren Park’s annual Christmas tree lighting. 3pm to 6pm.
Prosper Christmas Festival (Dec. 2, 2023)
Join Mayor David Bristol for the Community Tree Lighting at 7pm, marking the start of this annual celebration in downtown Prosper.
Against the picturesque backdrop of Prosper Town Hall, the festival offers a range of attractions, including Santa’s Workshop, a Kids Christmas Shoppe for young shoppers, a Kids Zone, a community stage, Santa’s Selfie Station, horse-drawn wagon rides, cookie decorating, and artisan exhibits. Excitingly, this year introduces a captivating drone show to add a new dimension to the festivities! 3pm to 7pm.
Flower Mound Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting (Dec. 2, 2023)
Enjoy the magic of lighted floats parading down Spinks Road, live performances from local groups, pictures with Santa, a community tent, food trucks, kids’ activities, and a thrilling countdown to the illumination of over 100,000 LED lights on the magnificent 50-foot-tall Christmas tree. 6pm to 9pm.
Christmas in the Branch (Dec. 2, 2023)
Experience the festive magic with Farmers Branch’s new holiday drone show and more in the Farmers Branch Historic Park!
Join in for outdoor ice skating, fun activities for children, the NEW Dasher’s Silent Disco, and the enchanting lighting of the Christmas tree with none other than Santa Claus himself!
Dive into more fun at the Kids Zone in Liberty Plaza, featuring carnival rides, face painters, balloon artists, and strolling characters. Cheer on local schools as they perform, explore unique handmade gifts at the Holiday Marketplace at The Grove, and savor delicious treats.
Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Santa from 5 pm to 9 pm, with a short break from 6:50 pm to 7:10 pm for the Tree Lighting Ceremony. The night concludes with a mesmerizing low-level fireworks show at 9 pm.
You can also revel in the warm glow of holiday lights in Farmers Branch Historical Park through the upcoming holiday season!
See their website for a complete list of holiday events!
Santa on the Square in Downtown Carrollton (Dec. 2, 2023)
Come and join for a special night as Santa and his reindeer stay out late to illuminate the Square in Historic Downtown Carrollton. Celebrate the holiday season with enchanting attractions such as the giant snow globe, live reindeer, toy soldiers, crafts, and more! Explore local businesses for unique gifts to share with friends and family while you’re at it! 4pm – 8pm.
Merry Main Street (Dec. 2, 2023)
Get ready for the festive extravaganza at Merry Main Street, presented by Texas Health Hospital Frisco.
The day kicks off with the Santa & Friends Parade and the opening of the Holiday Gift Market. Enjoy the melodic performances of Frisco Elementary School Choirs on three stages throughout the event.
As the sun sets, witness the magical City Tree Lighting Ceremony, marking the official start of the holiday season. Engage in delightful children’s activities, and be sure to explore the unique offerings at the Holiday Gift Market before it closes. 3pm to 7:30pm.
Arlington Holiday Lights Parade (Dec. 9, 2023)
The Arlington Holiday Lights Parade is a cherished tradition in Dallas. This lively parade fills the streets of Arlington with a dazzling array of colorful lights, themed floats, and cheerful participants. The parade begins at 6pm, followed by the lighting of the Christmas tree.
Prior to the parade, enjoy seasonal festivities like pictures with Santa (2pm – 5pm) at the George W. Hawkes Downtown Library and live entertainment at the Levitt Pavilion. See their website for the full schedule.
Best Ticketed Christmas Events in Dallas
