Top 10 Holiday Experiences in Dallas
Dallas is a city that truly knows how to celebrate the holiday season.
From festive lights to family-friendly events, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Don't miss out on these unforgettable holiday experiences in Dallas. Here's your guide to the season's best attractions:
12 Days of Christmas (Holiday at the Arboretum)
November 13 - January 5
If you're a fan of the classic Christmas carol and appreciate exquisite craftsmanship, the "12 Days of Christmas" exhibit at the Dallas Arboretum is tailor-made for you. Running from November 13 to January 5, this exhibit features 25-foot Victorian-style gazebos, each elegantly adorned with costumed characters and whimsical animals, all set within a winter wonderland. Stroll through this magical .75-mile garden display, marveling at the three-dimensional gazebos that come to life with mechanical parts and festive music. It's an enchanting experience for families and anyone seeking a dose of holiday magic.
The Trains at NorthPark
November 16 - January 5
The Trains at NorthPark, presented by Bank of Texas, is a beloved Dallas tradition that appeals to families of all generations. Running from November 16 to January 5, this holiday spectacle features an incredible 1,600 feet of track, taking visitors on a whimsical rail journey across America. Explore scenic landscapes from New England's autumn foliage to San Francisco's iconic Golden Gate Bridge, with stops in New York City, Washington D.C., Dallas, and even a visit from outer space! This event, with its captivating displays and interplanetary guests, is a delight for all ages.
Dallas Zoo Lights
November 22 - January 4
Dallas Zoo Lights is a delightful holiday tradition for families and animal lovers alike, running from November 22 to January 4. This year, it's transformed into a walk-through event, featuring over a million twinkling lights that adorn most of the zoo. Discover new, larger-than-life animal lanterns and intricate holiday-themed displays in both ZooNorth and the Wilds of Africa. Pay a visit to Santa's Workshop to meet the jolly old elf himself, and be sure to take advantage of more than a dozen brand new lighted photo opportunities. It's a dazzling experience perfect for families and those young at heart.
SNOWDAY
November 22 to January 5
SNOWDAY at Galleria Dallas offers a unique and immersive winter wonderland experience for those looking to capture the perfect holiday photo. Spanning over 20 rooms, this exhibit includes everything from a mesmerizing mirror maze to a Christmas-themed 1970s RV. Spend an hour immersed in creative backdrops, and, at the end, receive professional-grade photos delivered directly to your phone for immediate sharing on social media. This experience is a must-visit for photography enthusiasts and anyone seeking Instagram-worthy holiday memories.
DALLAS YMCA TURKEY TROT
November 28
The YMCA Dallas Turkey Trot, a cherished Thanksgiving tradition for over 55 years, is perfect for families, friends, and athletes of all levels. On November 28, join the annual 5K, 8-mile race, or fun run and experience the joy of giving back to your community while enjoying a fun-filled day of racing and celebration. This event is not just about running; it's about making a difference. All proceeds directly support the YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas, empowering community-building programs. Whether you're a seasoned runner or a newbie, there's a race for everyone. Join the fun, enjoy live music, delicious food, and create lasting Thanksgiving memories with loved ones.
BLACK NATIVITY
December 5 - December 22
Embark on a sensational journey as the Bishop Arts Theatre proudly presents "BLACK NATIVITY." Inspired by Langston Hughes's iconic 1960 Broadway show, this annual holiday production promises a mesmerizing theatrical wonderment like never before. For 19 extraordinary years, this show has captivated audiences with hand-clapping, toe-tapping, and finger-snapping performances. It's a theatrical tradition that transcends generations and celebrates the spirit of the holiday season. This experience is a must for those who appreciate the arts and soul-stirring performances.
Dallas Symphony Orchestra Christmas Pops Concerts
December 6 - 15
The Dallas Symphony Orchestra's Christmas Pops Concerts are a holiday delight for music enthusiasts and families alike. From December 6 to 15, revel in transcendent anthems, classical holiday favorites, and sing-along carols. Your favorite holiday vocalists join the DSO and choruses to bring a bit of Christmas magic to the Meyerson Symphony Center. Expect appearances by beloved holiday characters, a touch of snow, and the joyous music of the DSO. It's an enchanting evening that combines classical music with the festive spirit of the season.
Dallas Holiday Parade
December 7
The Dallas Holiday Parade is the city's largest one-day outdoor event and a holiday tradition for thousands of families throughout Dallas and beyond. This annual extravaganza transforms the heart of the city into a winter wonderland, igniting the spirit of the holiday season. Featuring spectacular floats, majestic marching bands, and balloons of beloved characters, this immersive experience promises to create lasting memories and ignite the festive spirit within you.
Klyde Warren Park's Tree Lighting Celebration
December 7
This free annual tradition includes a festive day of activities and entertainment, photos with Santa, story time with Mrs. Claus, face painting, crafts, games and snow flurries! The day culminates with a live show featuring performances of holiday music, visits from Santa’s friends Frosty and Rudolph, and, of course, Klyde Warren Park’s annual Christmas tree lighting.
BMW Dallas Marathon Festival
December 13-15
The BMW Dallas Marathon Festival is an annual celebration of human endurance, community support, and the spirit of athleticism. Taking place on December 13 - 15, 2024, this event has firmly established itself as one of Dallas's premier running spectacles, drawing participants and spectators from all corners of the nation. From the highly competitive, Boston Marathon qualifying race to the family-friendly 5K and relay races, there's a race for everyone.
BONUS: Deck The Plaza City Hall Lights
December 6 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
The free holiday celebration is open to the public from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 pm. and includes a full program with live entertainment on stage includes Dallas ISD’s Booker T Washington School for Performing and Visual Arts “Jazz Combo”, Molina High School Marching Band and live contemporary music band; Flame Foundation (flamenco dance); Navillera (Korean Dance); Grand Prairie Mariachi Azul; Devotio Moderna will play and sing Spanish language traditional holiday music and the Dallas Police Department choirs.
Families are invited to come and enjoy free fun activities including meeting Santa and Mrs. Claus, carriage rides, mini train rides, bounce houses, a City staff holiday tree decoration and exhibit, and much more! At 6:45 p.m. we flip the switch to lite the 50-foot-tall holiday tree for families to enjoy and take pictures.
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