It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and Dallas has big plans to celebrate with plenty of festive events. We’ve got a round-up of everything you should pencil in on your calendar for the month of December, from where to catch the best lights in the city to the holiday productions you don’t want to miss.
The Trains at NorthPark
We know you’re bound to make a trip or two to the mall during this time of the year, so why not break up your stressful holiday shopping trips with a fun exhibit the whole family will love? The Trains at NorthPark is a long-standing holiday tradition in Dallas that is currently celebrating its 31st anniversary. Tickets to see this impressive display of trains at NorthPark Center run $7 for adults and $4 for children and seniors, with children under two getting in free. Best yet, all proceeds benefit the Ronald McDonald House of Dallas, which has received $13 million from the exhibit since 1987. You can catch the trains until January 6.
Holiday Delights at Fair Park
If you’re looking for a free holiday event, it’s hard to beat Fair Park’s Holiday Delights, presented by the City of Dallas’ Park and Recreation Department. Taking place on December 13 from 6-9 p.m., this evening event will feature a number of holiday-themed activities. Expect to catch Santa and Mrs. Claus, with the Dallas Winds Tuba Quartet and the Townview Marching Band providing a fitting soundtrack of holiday cheer. There will also be a tree lighting ceremony, bounce houses, strolling carolers, elves and even a trackless train for the kiddos to ride. Parking for the event is free on-site.
Zoo Lights
Is your favorite part of the holidays looking at all of the twinkly lights? Then you have to check out Zoo Lights at the Dallas Zoo, which will run on select nights until January 1. This annual event turns the city zoo into a winter wonderland thanks to one million individual lights, including this year’s special silk-covered lanterns, which will be displayed in the shape of different zoo animals. The family will also be treated to a Santa meet-and-greet, nature-themed ornament-making activities, nightly musical performances and cold-weather foods like smores, hot chocolate and more. Tickets are $15 for adults and $12 for children, and Dallas Zoo members get in for free.
Christmas Movies and Live Shows
If you’re looking to catch a special production to really get you in the holiday spirit, there are many to choose from this year. Texas Theatre and Majestic Theatre will be running a joint Christmas Movie Series, screening classics like Home Alone, The Nightmare Before Christmas and It’s a Wonderful Life throughout the month of December. Admission is $10 per movie or, if you want to see every flick, you can buy a $35 pass that gives you access to all five movies. If you prefer your holiday show on the main stage, head to the AT&T Performing Arts Center’s Wyly Theatre for A Christmas Carol, presented by the Dallas Theater Center. The production will be running until December 30, with both matinee and evening showtimes available.
Unbranded Pop-Up Shop
Lastly, make sure to stop by Unbranded, Dallas’ holiday pop-up shop on Commerce Street, for all your gift-giving needs. The shop is open Thursdays through Saturdays from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m. until December 22, and the individual shops will rotate every week, meaning you will have a completely new experience each time you visit.
Which city events are you most looking forward to this holiday season? Share your plans with us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
