Unforgettable Holiday Events: Your Guide to Where to Host Holiday Events in DFW

Planning a holiday get-together in the Dallas-Fort Worth area? You've come to the right place! DFW really goes all out for the holidays, and there are so many cool places to choose from. Whether you're looking for a big, dazzling event or something more low-key and cozy, we've got you covered. Let's find the perfect spot for your holiday celebration where to host holiday events in DFW.

Key Takeaways

• DFW offers a wide variety of venues for holiday events, from large resorts with themed experiences to charming local spots.

• Consider the Gaylord Texan Resort for immersive holiday installations and activities like ICE! and snow tubing.

• For family-friendly fun, check out places like the Dallas Galleria Mall for its tree lighting and ice-skating shows, or Bass Pro Shops for photos with Santa.

• If you're looking for something a bit different, explore unique events like SNOWDAY for interactive photo ops or the SANTALAND Express train ride.

• Don't forget about cozy retreats and dining options, such as the Hilton Anatole's Christmas activities or festive bars and restaurants throughout Dallas.

Unforgettable Holiday Celebrations Across DFW

Get ready to be wowed because the Dallas-Fort Worth area really knows how to do the holidays! From dazzling light displays to immersive experiences, you're going to find something amazing to do. Seriously, you might need to extend your holiday break just to fit it all in.

Gaylord Texan Resort's Winter Wonderland

This place is practically a holiday theme park! The Gaylord Texan in Grapevine goes all out every year with their "Winter Wonderland." Think incredible ice sculptures, usually based on a popular holiday movie – last year it was Rudolph! Plus, you can go snow tubing, try ice skating, and even decorate gingerbread. It's a whole winter village brought to Texas, and it's pretty spectacular.

Omni PGA Frisco Resort's Festive Fun

If you're looking for a more relaxed, yet still super festive vibe, check out the Omni PGA Frisco Resort. They have this "Home on The Range for The Holidays" event. It's got Santa, crafts for the kids, and even s'mores on the terrace every night. It feels like a cozy, upscale holiday gathering, perfect for making some sweet memories.

Dallas Galleria Mall's Dazzling Displays

Okay, the Dallas Galleria Mall is a classic for a reason. They put up this massive indoor Christmas tree that's seriously impressive. Every day, they have a light and music show that makes the tree come alive. It’s a great spot to get some shopping done and soak in the holiday cheer all at once. Plus, watching the ice skaters under the tree is always a treat!

Magical Holiday Experiences for Everyone

Get ready for some seriously fun holiday adventures across DFW that are perfect for just about anyone! You don't have to be a kid to enjoy the magic.

Hall-idays at Legacy Hall

Legacy Hall really goes all out during the holidays. They often have events that feel like a big, festive party. Think live music, yummy holiday treats, and maybe even some fun activities for the whole family. It's a great spot to grab a bite and soak in the cheerful atmosphere. Keep an eye on their schedule because they usually have special happenings throughout December.

Holiday Igloos at The Art Park

Imagine this: you're cozy in your own private igloo, sipping on a warm drink, surrounded by twinkling lights. The Art Park often sets up these adorable igloos, making for a really unique and intimate holiday experience. It's a fantastic way to enjoy the season with friends or family without the usual hustle and bustle. They usually have some special food and drink menus just for the igloos, too!

Sea Life Grapevine's Twinkling Tides

Who says holiday magic has to be all about snow? Sea Life Grapevine puts a watery spin on the season with their "Twinkling Tides." You can wander through the aquarium and see the usual amazing sea creatures, but with a festive holiday twist. They often decorate the place with lights and have special holiday-themed talks or activities. It's a wonderfully different way to get into the holiday spirit. It’s a nice break from the typical holiday scene and a chance to see something a little unexpected.

Enchanting Christmas Events Beyond the City

Sometimes, you just need to escape the hustle and bustle of the city to find that perfect holiday magic, right? Luckily, the areas surrounding DFW are absolutely brimming with charming Christmas events that feel like stepping into a postcard. You don't have to go too far to find some truly special experiences.

Grapevine: The Christmas Capital of Texas

Okay, so Grapevine isn't exactly beyond the city, but it's so packed with holiday cheer it deserves its own spotlight! Seriously, this place goes all out. You can wander through streets decked in lights, catch performances, and even take a festive train ride. It's a whole town dedicated to Christmas, and you can feel it everywhere you go. They've got parades, markets, and so many photo ops, you'll need a whole day (or two!) to see it all. It's a classic for a reason!

Santa's Wonderland in College Station

If you're up for a bit of a road trip, Santa's Wonderland in College Station is an absolute must-see. Imagine a sprawling Christmas village that's basically a giant playground of holiday fun. You can:

• Take a magical ride on the PACA Express train through Christmas tree fields, spotting alpacas along the way.

• Meet Santa himself and snap some photos in all sorts of festive settings.

• Indulge in all the classic holiday treats like caramel apples, popcorn, and hot chocolate.

• Browse a local artisan market for unique gifts.

It’s got a super relaxed, country vibe that’s just so cozy and fun. Plus, who doesn't love alpacas in Christmas hats?

Dickens on Main in Boerne

For a truly unique experience, head down to Boerne for Dickens on Main. This event transforms the charming town into a Victorian-era Christmas scene. Think carolers, horse-drawn carriages, and everyone dressed up in period costumes. It’s like stepping back in time! You can:

• Enjoy live entertainment that fits the historical theme.

• Browse unique craft vendors selling handmade goods.

• Sip on warm cider and enjoy festive treats.

It’s a wonderful way to experience the holidays with a touch of old-world charm. You might even forget you're in Texas for a little while!

Festive Family Fun and Photo Opportunities

Looking for that perfect holiday snapshot or a fun outing the whole family will love? DFW has you covered with some seriously cool spots that are all about making memories. Forget stressing over the perfect Christmas card photo; these places make it easy and, dare I say, fun!

SNOWDAY: An Immersive Holiday Adventure

Get ready to step into a winter wonderland that's practically made for your camera roll. SNOWDAY isn't just a place; it's an experience. Imagine wandering through over 20 different themed rooms, each one packed with festive surprises and, yes, tons of amazing spots for photos. It’s like walking through a dream, and you’ll definitely want to capture every moment. Plan for about an hour to soak it all in and snap away.

SANTALAND Express Train Ride

All aboard for a magical journey! The SANTALAND Express Train Ride takes you through a twinkling forest under the moonlight. It’s a multi-sensory adventure filled with starry surprises and, of course, a chance to see Santa himself. This is one of those experiences that feels truly special, perfect for creating those heartwarming holiday memories.

Photos with Santa at Bass Pro Shops

This is a classic for a reason! Bass Pro Shops always goes all out for the holidays, and getting your picture taken with Santa is a tradition many families cherish. It’s a relaxed way to get that essential Santa photo, and while you’re there, you can even get some holiday shopping done. Plus, they often have little giveaways, so keep an eye out for those!

Sparkling Light Displays and Parades

Get ready to be dazzled! DFW really knows how to put on a show when it comes to holiday lights and parades. You can catch some seriously amazing displays that will make you feel like you've stepped right into a winter wonderland.

Here are a few spots you won't want to miss:

• Arlington Holiday Lights Parade: This is a big one! Imagine colorful floats, cheerful participants, and streets lit up like a Christmas tree. The parade kicks off at 6 PM, and afterward, they light up the Christmas tree. Before the main event, you can even snap some photos with Santa starting at 2 PM at the George W. Hawkes Downtown Library and catch some live entertainment.

• Lights at Legacy: While the specific details for this year are still coming together, Legacy West often has some fantastic light installations that are perfect for an evening stroll. Keep an eye out for updates – it's usually a beautiful sight!

• Deerfield's Dazzling Decorations: This neighborhood in Plano goes all out every year. Residents decorate their homes with an incredible amount of lights and festive displays. It's totally free to drive through, and it's a really fun way to see how creative people can get with their holiday spirit. Just be prepared for some slow-moving traffic because everyone wants to see the magic!

Unique Holiday Entertainment and Performances

Looking for something a little different this holiday season? DFW has some seriously cool shows and performances that go beyond the usual carols. You can catch some amazing live music, see a classic story brought to life on stage, or even join in with a fantastic choir.

Michael Martin Murphey: Cowboy Christmas

Michael Martin Murphey's "Cowboy Christmas" has been a holiday tradition for ages, and for good reason! It's not just a concert; it's a whole multimedia experience. Imagine his classic country and pop hits mixed with holiday tunes, all set against a backdrop of stunning Western art and photography. Plus, there's cowboy poetry and a live band. It’s a really unique way to celebrate the season with a touch of the Wild West.

Scrooge the Musical

If you're a fan of classic holiday tales, you've got to check out "Scrooge the Musical." It's a family-friendly take on Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol." You'll follow the journey of Ebenezer Scrooge as he learns the true meaning of Christmas, thanks to some ghostly visitors. It’s a heartwarming story that’s perfect for all ages and a great way to remember what the holidays are all about.

Turtle Creek Chorale Presents All Is Bright

Get ready to be amazed by the Turtle Creek Chorale's "All Is Bright" performance. This isn't just any choir; they're known for putting on incredible shows. You can expect a beautiful mix of holiday music that will fill you with festive cheer. It’s a wonderful opportunity to hear some truly talented voices and get into the holiday spirit with a performance that's both moving and joyful.

Cozy Holiday Retreats and Dining

Looking for a place to truly unwind and soak in the holiday spirit? DFW has some fantastic spots where you can relax and enjoy festive treats. Forget the hustle and bustle for a bit and treat yourself to a cozy getaway.

Christmas at the Anatole

This place goes all out for the holidays! Imagine over 40 Christmas activities right on site. You can get tickets for breakfast with Santa, which includes a buffet and cookie decorating, or even book a special package. This package often includes things like:

• Early check-in so you can settle in right away.

• Complimentary parking, because who needs extra fees?

• Tickets to a holiday maze and a Ferris wheel ride with a great view.

• Tickets for a fun slide.

It’s like stepping into a winter wonderland without leaving Dallas!

Adolphus Hotel Holiday Staycation

If you're dreaming of a classic, elegant holiday experience, the Adolphus Hotel is your spot. They really deck the halls here. You'll find:

• A giant, stunning Christmas tree that's perfect for photos.

• Festive Christmas tea, a lovely way to spend an afternoon.

• A cozy Christmas hot cocoa lounge – perfect for warming up.

• An upstairs Christmas bar, sometimes with charming holiday tents.

It’s the perfect place for a luxurious holiday escape.

Festive Bars and Restaurants in Dallas

Dallas really knows how to do holiday dining and drinking. There are so many places that transform into magical, festive spots. You can find bars with special holiday cocktails, restaurants decorated to the nines, and even places offering themed menus. It's a great way to add some extra sparkle to your evenings. Keep an eye out for pop-up bars or restaurants that go above and beyond with their decorations and seasonal offerings. Checking local listings is your best bet to find the most current and exciting spots each year!

Looking for a warm and inviting place to spend your holidays? Our "Cozy Holiday Retreats and Dining" section has just what you need. Imagine delicious meals and a comfortable atmosphere perfect for making memories. Ready to plan your perfect getaway? Visit our website today to explore all the wonderful options available!

Happy Holidays from DFW!

Wow, DFW really knows how to do the holidays, right? We've covered so many cool spots, from dazzling light displays to cozy events perfect for making memories. Whether you're looking for a big family outing or a quiet night out, there's definitely something for everyone. So go ahead, pick your favorite and make this holiday season one for the books. Have a fantastic time celebrating!