Disclaimer :: This guide is sponsored by The Keller Pointe to bring you details on holiday happenings this winter.
The holiday season is upon us! And there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate in Fort Worth, Arlington, and around Tarrant County.
This section has details on all the best kid-friendly celebrations, parades, and season-long events. Also, check back often as events are added throughout the season.
Click on the tabs below, organized by date. A list will populate under each tab, listing events throughout that date range.
And be sure to view our entire guide to help you find tree farms, light displays, and more! This year we feature new categories: Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and New Years happenings! So visit those sections for holiday-specific events in those categories.
Thank you to our sponsors for making this guide possible: The Keller Pointe.
For EVEN MORE festivities around the metroplex, visit our local guides for the Dallas and Collin County areas.
The Keller Pointe :: Facebook :: Elevate this winter season with The Keller Pointe’s captivating Winter Half-Day Camps! As the weather gets colder, a world of imagination and exploration awaits indoors. Our camps are designed to keep young minds engaged and entertained during the colder months. Choose between “make a movie,” snapology robots, art-rageous painting, sculpting, and more!
Opens November 10
Christmas at Gaylord Texan
Gaylord Texan :: Grapevine
The grand atrium is decked out with millions of lights, and you’ll find immersive walk-through experiences, a Christmas carousel, snow tubing, arts and crafts, Charlie Brown and friends, Cirque performances, Santa photos, and more. Through December 31.
Opens November 19
Holiday in the Park
Six Flags :: Arlington
As always, Six Flags gets festive with sparkling lights, holiday decorations, seasonal treats, and lots of special activities, rides, and heartwarming shows. See more about specific holiday fun at the link. Select dates through December 31.
Opens November 20
Christmas Capital of Texas
Historic Main Street District :: Grapevine
Grapevine is the “Christmas Capital of Texas,” which means you’ll find myriad Christmas events and activities scheduled throughout the month. We’ve included many of the major events in our guide but be sure to browse the link for lots more ideas. Through December 30.
Opens December 1
Christmas in Dinosaur Land
Dinosaur Land :: Fort Worth
This brand new museum is hosting its first holiday event. Activities will include a walk through a dinosaur forest, adorned with Christmas lights. Enjoy hot chocolate, crafts, and a visit from Santa or the Grinch! Select dates through December 23.
November 16
Hometown Holidays
Dr. Jim Vaszauskas Center for the Performing Arts :: Mansfield
Enjoy Santa visits, midway rides, carnival games, an ice slide, food vendors, and more. There are special highlights to each day like the parade, tree lighting and fireworks, drone show, and dance spectacular. See link for specifics and info on purchasing ride tickets in advance. Admission and parking are free!
November 18
Home for the Holidays Tree Lighting
Southlake Town Square :: Southlake
You’ll find carolers, crafts, carriage rides, snow tubing, live music, ice sculpting, Santa photos, and more in Southlake Town Square this evening. Tree lighting at 6:00 p.m. followed by a one-minute fireworks show. Admission and all activities are free!
November 19
Fort Worth Parade of Lights
Downtown :: Fort Worth
Over one-hundred floats will participate in this year’s holiday tradition, which started forty years ago. While the parade begins at 6:00 p.m., be sure to arrive early to reserve a spot, sip hot cocoa, or shop and dine downtown. Free!
November 20
Carol of Lights
Historic Downtown :: Grapevine
This holiday season kick-off features live performances, dazzling dance numbers, light shows, and fireworks. Family-friendly fun and food vendors will be there starting at 4:00 p.m.; the light shows are at 7:30 and 8:30 p.m. Free!
December 1
Ryan Place Jingle & Mingle
Ryan Place :: Fort Worth
Ryan Place kicks off the holiday season with its Candlelight Christmas Home Tour! Tickets include food, drinks, and entertainment. Be sure to purchase at the link above by Friday, November 24th!
December 2
BTX-MAS
Mayor Vera Calvin Plaza :: Burleson
Don’t miss a holiday kick-off evening at Mayor Vera Calvin Plaza. There’s a parade of lights followed by entertainment on stage, a tree lighting, and a drone show to end the evening. Heads-up: The 34-foot tree has an interactive Santa’s cabin at the base, creating a perfect backdrop for festive photos. Free!
Christmas on the Square
The Square :: Weatherford
Start the fun in Historic Downtown Weatherford with holiday vendors and festivities on the square (theme: Sights and Sounds of Christmas), then grab a spot for the Weatherford Lights the Night Parade at 6:30 p.m. Free!
Denton Holiday Lighting Festival
The Square :: Denton
Come out for an evening of arts and crafts, food, live music and performances, and lots of holiday cheer. Check the link for details on wristbands that get you access to Santa Claus photos, horse-drawn carriage rides, the snow hill slopes, and the trackless train. Admission is free! (Wristbands from $10.)
Winterfest
Fort Worth Museum of Science and History :: Fort Worth
Discover Fort Worth’s rich blend of cultures at this festive celebration of holiday traditions. Come in pajamas, savor hot chocolate, snap a photo with Dynamo, and do some activities and crafts. Free with general admission or museum membership.
December 3
Christmas in the Stockyards
The Stockyards :: Fort Worth
Featuring festive activities such as the NEW holiday ice rink, photos with Cowboy Santa, story time with Mrs. Claus, reindeer games, strolling Dicken’s carolers, cowboy poetry, and a spectacular Christmas parade.
December 5
Upcycled Poinsettias
Southwest Regional Library :: Fort Worth
With only a handful of clothespins and easy-to-follow steps, anyone can craft a charming poinsettia perfect for ornaments, gift accents, or decor. This is a great activity the whole family can do together. Free!
December 6
Winter Blooms
Ridglea Library :: Fort Worth
Head to the Ridglea Branch of the Fort Worth Library to plant a rare winter flower bulb. Personalize your planter, and bring your plant home or share it as a holiday gift. Free!
December 9
Christmas at the Castle
Weatherford | 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Explore this family-friendly event at the palatial Texas Pythian Home, adorned with Christmas decorations. Don’t forget your camera! Free!
Holiday Card Party
Northside Library | 3:00 p.m.
Head to the Northside Branch of the Fort Worth Library and write letters to Santa! Grown-ups can create holiday cards to send to family and friends, too. Free!
Holiday Lights Parade
Downtown Arlington | 6:00 p.m.
This parade route changes a bit each year, and will be posted December 1. Pre-show entertainment begins at 2:00 p.m. See a complete schedule of events at the link. You can take your own photos with Santa at the library before the parade or after the tree lighting at the Founders Plaza. Free!
Justin Old-Town Christmas
Justin | 12:00 – 6:00 p.m.
So many opportunities for small-town, old-fashioned celebrations this weekend. This one features balloon twisters and face painters, ice skating, live entertainment, photos with Santa and Mrs. Clause, a snow field, s’mores station, parade, market, and more. See the link for details on the parade and competition entries (gingerbread house decorating, desserts, and chili cook-off). Free!
December 10
Salt Dough Ornaments
Fort Worth | 4:30 – 5:30 p.m.
Decorate a salt dough ornament and learn how to make your own at home!
The Southwest Regional Branch of the Fort Worth Library has designed this program for the whole family. Free!
December 10
Holidays at the Hearth
Fort Worth | 9:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Get old fashioned with your festivities at Log Cabin Village! Explore the village, visit and take photos with Santa, make ornaments and crafts, play games, and learn about historic traditions. Tickets on sale soon. See link to purchase.
December 13
Holiday Botany Walk
Fort Worth | 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Join the City of Fort Worth to explore local holiday-inspired flora like mistletoe and holly berries. Learn about their natural history and festive significance. Registration required. Tickets from $5, free for members of the Nature Center.
December 15
Graham Cracker House Decorating
Fort Worth | 3:00 – 4:30 p.m.
Make a graham cracker house at the Northwest Branch of the Fort Worth Public Library!
Come decorate a treat for the family while celebrating the holidays. Free!
December 15 – 17
Holiday Roller Skating
Ennis | 4:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Dust off your roller skates and head to downtown Ennis for some holiday rollerskating. There will be a limited amount of skates provided. The city highly encourages you to bring your own, if you have them. Sunday hours from 2:00 – 6:00 p.m. Free!
December 16
3D Paper Snowflakes
Fort Worth | 3:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Head to the East Berry Branch of the Fort Worth Public Library to create some easy-to-make but ornate 3D snowflakes. These crafts are sure to accentuate your holiday or winter décor. Free!
December 21
Winter Glamour Jewelry
Fort Worth | 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
If your children love making or wearing jewelry, bring them to the East Berry Branch of the Fort Worth Library for this winter glamour jewelry program! Learn about the history of jewelry-making and have a great time making your own. Free!
- Ongoing
-
The Keller Pointe :: Facebook :: Elevate this winter season with The Keller Pointe’s captivating Winter Half-Day Camps! As the weather gets colder, a world of imagination and exploration awaits indoors. Our camps are designed to keep young minds engaged and entertained during the colder months. Choose between “make a movie,” snapology robots, art-rageous painting, sculpting, and more!
Opens November 10
Christmas at Gaylord Texan
Gaylord Texan :: GrapevineThe grand atrium is decked out with millions of lights, and you’ll find immersive walk-through experiences, a Christmas carousel, snow tubing, arts and crafts, Charlie Brown and friends, Cirque performances, Santa photos, and more. Through December 31.
Opens November 19
Holiday in the Park
Six Flags :: Arlington
As always, Six Flags gets festive with sparkling lights, holiday decorations, seasonal treats, and lots of special activities, rides, and heartwarming shows. See more about specific holiday fun at the link. Select dates through December 31.
Opens November 20
Christmas Capital of Texas
Historic Main Street District :: GrapevineGrapevine is the “Christmas Capital of Texas,” which means you’ll find myriad Christmas events and activities scheduled throughout the month. We’ve included many of the major events in our guide but be sure to browse the link for lots more ideas. Through December 30.
Opens December 1
Christmas in Dinosaur Land
Dinosaur Land :: Fort WorthThis brand new museum is hosting its first holiday event. Activities will include a walk through a dinosaur forest, adorned with Christmas lights. Enjoy hot chocolate, crafts, and a visit from Santa or the Grinch! Select dates through December 23.
- November
-
November 16
Hometown Holidays
Dr. Jim Vaszauskas Center for the Performing Arts :: MansfieldEnjoy Santa visits, midway rides, carnival games, an ice slide, food vendors, and more. There are special highlights to each day like the parade, tree lighting and fireworks, drone show, and dance spectacular. See link for specifics and info on purchasing ride tickets in advance. Admission and parking are free!
November 18
Home for the Holidays Tree Lighting
Southlake Town Square :: SouthlakeYou’ll find carolers, crafts, carriage rides, snow tubing, live music, ice sculpting, Santa photos, and more in Southlake Town Square this evening. Tree lighting at 6:00 p.m. followed by a one-minute fireworks show. Admission and all activities are free!
November 19
Fort Worth Parade of Lights
Downtown :: Fort WorthOver one-hundred floats will participate in this year’s holiday tradition, which started forty years ago. While the parade begins at 6:00 p.m., be sure to arrive early to reserve a spot, sip hot cocoa, or shop and dine downtown. Free!
November 20
Carol of Lights
Historic Downtown :: GrapevineThis holiday season kick-off features live performances, dazzling dance numbers, light shows, and fireworks. Family-friendly fun and food vendors will be there starting at 4:00 p.m.; the light shows are at 7:30 and 8:30 p.m. Free!
- December 1 - 9
-
December 1
Ryan Place Jingle & Mingle
Ryan Place :: Fort WorthRyan Place kicks off the holiday season with its Candlelight Christmas Home Tour! Tickets include food, drinks, and entertainment. Be sure to purchase at the link above by Friday, November 24th!
December 2
BTX-MAS
Mayor Vera Calvin Plaza :: BurlesonDon’t miss a holiday kick-off evening at Mayor Vera Calvin Plaza. There’s a parade of lights followed by entertainment on stage, a tree lighting, and a drone show to end the evening. Heads-up: The 34-foot tree has an interactive Santa’s cabin at the base, creating a perfect backdrop for festive photos. Free!
Christmas on the Square
The Square :: WeatherfordStart the fun in Historic Downtown Weatherford with holiday vendors and festivities on the square (theme: Sights and Sounds of Christmas), then grab a spot for the Weatherford Lights the Night Parade at 6:30 p.m. Free!
Denton Holiday Lighting Festival
The Square :: DentonCome out for an evening of arts and crafts, food, live music and performances, and lots of holiday cheer. Check the link for details on wristbands that get you access to Santa Claus photos, horse-drawn carriage rides, the snow hill slopes, and the trackless train. Admission is free! (Wristbands from $10.)
Winterfest
Fort Worth Museum of Science and History :: Fort WorthDiscover Fort Worth’s rich blend of cultures at this festive celebration of holiday traditions. Come in pajamas, savor hot chocolate, snap a photo with Dynamo, and do some activities and crafts. Free with general admission or museum membership.
December 3
Christmas in the Stockyards
The Stockyards :: Fort WorthFeaturing festive activities such as the NEW holiday ice rink, photos with Cowboy Santa, story time with Mrs. Claus, reindeer games, strolling Dicken’s carolers, cowboy poetry, and a spectacular Christmas parade.
December 5
Upcycled Poinsettias
Southwest Regional Library :: Fort WorthWith only a handful of clothespins and easy-to-follow steps, anyone can craft a charming poinsettia perfect for ornaments, gift accents, or decor. This is a great activity the whole family can do together. Free!
December 6
Winter Blooms
Ridglea Library :: Fort WorthHead to the Ridglea Branch of the Fort Worth Library to plant a rare winter flower bulb. Personalize your planter, and bring your plant home or share it as a holiday gift. Free!
December 9
Christmas at the Castle
Weatherford | 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.Explore this family-friendly event at the palatial Texas Pythian Home, adorned with Christmas decorations. Don’t forget your camera! Free!
Holiday Card Party
Northside Library | 3:00 p.m.Head to the Northside Branch of the Fort Worth Library and write letters to Santa! Grown-ups can create holiday cards to send to family and friends, too. Free!
Holiday Lights Parade
Downtown Arlington | 6:00 p.m.This parade route changes a bit each year, and will be posted December 1. Pre-show entertainment begins at 2:00 p.m. See a complete schedule of events at the link. You can take your own photos with Santa at the library before the parade or after the tree lighting at the Founders Plaza. Free!
Justin Old-Town Christmas
Justin | 12:00 – 6:00 p.m.So many opportunities for small-town, old-fashioned celebrations this weekend. This one features balloon twisters and face painters, ice skating, live entertainment, photos with Santa and Mrs. Clause, a snow field, s’mores station, parade, market, and more. See the link for details on the parade and competition entries (gingerbread house decorating, desserts, and chili cook-off). Free!
December 10
Salt Dough Ornaments
Fort Worth | 4:30 – 5:30 p.m.Decorate a salt dough ornament and learn how to make your own at home!
The Southwest Regional Branch of the Fort Worth Library has designed this program for the whole family. Free!
- December 10 - 16
-
December 10
Holidays at the Hearth
Fort Worth | 9:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.Get old fashioned with your festivities at Log Cabin Village! Explore the village, visit and take photos with Santa, make ornaments and crafts, play games, and learn about historic traditions. Tickets on sale soon. See link to purchase.
December 13
Holiday Botany Walk
Fort Worth | 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.Join the City of Fort Worth to explore local holiday-inspired flora like mistletoe and holly berries. Learn about their natural history and festive significance. Registration required. Tickets from $5, free for members of the Nature Center.
December 15
Graham Cracker House Decorating
Fort Worth | 3:00 – 4:30 p.m.Make a graham cracker house at the Northwest Branch of the Fort Worth Public Library!
Come decorate a treat for the family while celebrating the holidays. Free!
December 15 – 17
Holiday Roller Skating
Ennis | 4:00 – 9:00 p.m.Dust off your roller skates and head to downtown Ennis for some holiday rollerskating. There will be a limited amount of skates provided. The city highly encourages you to bring your own, if you have them. Sunday hours from 2:00 – 6:00 p.m. Free!
December 16
3D Paper Snowflakes
Fort Worth | 3:00 – 4:00 p.m.Head to the East Berry Branch of the Fort Worth Public Library to create some easy-to-make but ornate 3D snowflakes. These crafts are sure to accentuate your holiday or winter décor. Free!
- December 17 - 23
-
December 21
Winter Glamour Jewelry
Fort Worth | 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.If your children love making or wearing jewelry, bring them to the East Berry Branch of the Fort Worth Library for this winter glamour jewelry program! Learn about the history of jewelry-making and have a great time making your own. Free!