50 Festive Things to Do for the Holidays in Dallas/Fort Worth

The holiday season in Dallas/Fort Worth is a magical time, brimming with sparkling lights, warm cocoa, festive events, and holiday cheer. From bustling holiday markets to dazzling light displays, the Metroplex offers an endless list of seasonal activities to get you in the spirit. Here's a list of 50 fantastic ways to celebrate the holidays this year in DFW!

1. Explore Enchant Christmas at Fair Park

Wander through Texas' largest light maze at Enchant Christmas, where millions of twinkling lights create a magical landscape. With ice skating, festive treats, and holiday shopping, it's an absolute must-see!

2. Go Ice Skating at Panther Island Ice in Fort Worth

Glide across Fort Worth's outdoor ice rink, surrounded by holiday music and twinkling lights. Bring a group of friends or family for a classic winter activity.

3. Ride the Grapevine Vintage Railroad's North Pole Express

Grapevine, the Christmas Capital of Texas, offers a train ride like no other. Kids can meet Santa, drink hot chocolate, and even receive a "We Believe" silver bell.

4. Walk through the Dallas Arboretum's 12 Days of Christmas

Admire twelve 25-foot Victorian-style gazebos, each decorated with characters from the classic Christmas carol. The Arboretum becomes a magical winter wonderland each year.

5. Marvel at the Gaylord Texan's Lone Star Christmas

The Gaylord Texan pulls out all the stops for its Christmas display with over two million lights, 15,000 ornaments, and a massive gingerbread house. Don't miss its snow tubing and ice sculptures!

6. Celebrate Christmas in the Stockyards in Fort Worth

Head to the Stockyards for a Texas-style holiday! With cowboy Santas, parades, and a Christmas tree lighting ceremony, this unique celebration is full of Western charm.

7. Attend the Annual Lighting of the Historic Grapevine Christmas Tree

Gather for the annual tree lighting ceremony in Grapevine, featuring music, fireworks, and a spectacular Christmas tree that kicks off the holiday season in style.

8. Catch a Holiday Movie at the Historic Texas Theatre

Cozy up in a vintage movie theater to watch holiday classics. The Texas Theatre decorates its space for the season, making it a festive movie-going experience.

9. Wander Highland Park's Christmas Lights

For a truly upscale lights tour, head to Highland Park, where homeowners go all out with grand displays. Grab a warm drink and drive through to see some of the finest homes dressed for the holidays.

10. Enjoy the Klyde Warren Park Holiday Show

This family-friendly holiday event in Dallas includes live performances, festive treats, and even a chance to meet Santa.

26. Have Brunch with Santa at the Dallas Zoo

Share a festive breakfast with Santa himself at the Dallas Zoo! Families can enjoy a holiday-themed brunch and explore zoo exhibits afterward.

27. Decorate Cookies at a Baking Class

Get creative with holiday cookie decorating! Many bakeries and community centers in DFW host classes where you can learn tips for the perfect frosted cookies.

28. Watch Elf the Musical

Experience the beloved story of Buddy the Elf live on stage at a local theater. Perfect for families, this show will fill you with holiday cheer and laughter.

29. Go on a Scavenger Hunt for Best Holiday Lights

Make a game out of the holiday lights by setting up a scavenger hunt around DFW! Look for iconic elements like Santa, reindeer, or elaborate lawn decorations.

30. Take a Festive Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride

Bundle up and enjoy a magical carriage ride through charming neighborhoods or parks decorated for the season. It's a romantic and nostalgic holiday experience.

31. Toast S'mores at the Christmas Village in Arlington

Gather around the fire pits at Arlington's Christmas Village, where you can roast s'mores and enjoy hot chocolate amidst festive decorations.

32. Explore the Jingle Bell Run in Dallas

Participate in a festive 5K run/walk with bells on! The Jingle Bell Run is a fun way to get some exercise while supporting a good cause and celebrating the season.

33. Sip Hot Cocoa at a Festive Coffee Shop

Warm up with a holiday-themed hot chocolate or peppermint latte at one of DFW's cozy coffee shops, many of which decorate for the season.

34. Attend a "Christmas Vacation" Movie Party at Alamo Drafthouse

Celebrate the holidays with a screening of the classic comedy Christmas Vacation, complete with themed drinks and interactive fun at Alamo Drafthouse.

35. Experience the Holiday Pop-Up Bar Scene in Dallas

Check out themed pop-up bars around the city, where you can enjoy holiday cocktails in festive settings complete with garlands, lights, and holiday music.

36. Read Holiday Stories at a Local Library

Take the kids to a storytime event at your local library, where they can hear holiday tales and maybe even meet Santa!

37. Build Gingerbread Houses with Friends

Host a gingerbread house decorating party and compete for the most creative designs. A perfect way to add some holiday creativity and laughter to the season!

38. Do a Holiday Puzzle Night

Invite family or friends over for a cozy night of holiday-themed puzzles, hot chocolate, and maybe even a few holiday tunes in the background.

39. Bake and Exchange Cookies with Neighbors

Spread holiday cheer with a cookie exchange! Bake your favorite recipes and swap them with neighbors to share delicious treats and connect with your community.

40. Attend a Holiday Painting Workshop

Unleash your inner artist at a holiday-themed painting class where you can create festive decorations to bring home.

41. Collect Donations for a Local Food Bank

Give back by collecting canned goods and essential items for local food banks, making sure everyone has a happy holiday season.

42. Watch a Classic Christmas Movie Marathon

Snuggle up on the couch for a day of holiday classics, from It's a Wonderful Life to Home Alone—the perfect cozy winter activity!

43. Decorate the Christmas Tree as a Family

Gather around and make an evening out of trimming the tree. Play holiday music, hang ornaments, and enjoy some cocoa as you create a family tradition.

44. Host a DIY Ornament-Making Night

Set up a craft station for friends and family to make unique ornaments. It's a great way to personalize your decorations and create keepsakes.

45. Create a Family Holiday Card

Get creative with family photos and festive messages to send holiday cheer to loved ones near and far.

46. Stroll a Neighborhood Light Display

Take a leisurely walk through a decorated neighborhood to admire the lights. Look for unique themes and designs that make each house special.

47. Make Paper Snowflakes and Hang Them Up

Bring a snowy touch indoors with homemade paper snowflakes! It's an easy, fun craft that adds a wintry feel to any room.

48. Send Holiday Cards to Nursing Homes

Brighten someone's day by sending holiday cards to nursing homes. A small gesture can mean a lot to those who may not have family nearby.

49. Sing Christmas Karaoke

Host a karaoke night with holiday hits! It's a fun way to let loose and enjoy classic Christmas tunes with friends and family.

50. Celebrate with a Cozy Holiday Dinner Party

Wrap up the season with a festive dinner party. Prepare a holiday meal, light some candles, and enjoy time with loved ones over a delicious feast.