Dallas Rings in the Holidays: A Weekend Packed with Lights, Shows, and Star Sightings
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A dazzling array of holiday events are set to transform Dallas this Thanksgiving weekend, offering somthing for everyone from festive ice skating and theatrical performances to notable light displays and even a chance to meet a beloved film icon. Whether you’re seeking classic traditions or new experiences, the city is brimming with opportunities to celebrate the season.
A Festive Kickoff: Ice Skating and Disney Magic
The holiday season officially begins on wednesday, November 26, with the opening of the CultureMap City Rink presented by Verizon. Transforming Main Street Garden into a winter wonderland, the rink will be open daily through January 5 and will host a tree lighting ceremony on Friday, November 28. This year’s trend of outdoor ice rinks is in full swing, offering a picturesque setting for holiday fun.
Also launching on Wednesday is Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party, bringing beloved characters to the Credit Union of Texas Event Center through November 30.
All Aboard for Holiday Cheer and Sparkling Lights
For a unique and enchanting experience, the Vintage Railroad offers rides almost every day through December 30. Passengers can enjoy Christmas sing-alongs, character interactions, and surprises aboard the festive train.
A Weekend of Performances and Enchantment
Friday, November 28, marks the start of a busy weekend for performing arts enthusiasts. christmas at the Anatole transforms the Hilton Anatole into a dazzling wonderland with ice skating, train rides, and seasonal entertainment. Breakfast With Santa is available on select dates. Nearby, Frostival at Howell Family Farms offers a glowing winter dream with a Trail of Lights, hot cocoa, and photos with Santa through December 28.
The theatrical calendar is equally robust. The Dallas Theater Center presents its annual production of A Christmas Carol at the Wyly Theater through December 27, promising dazzling visuals and a heartwarming tale of redemption.
The Nutcracker takes center stage with two productions. Chamberlain Ballet‘s performance at the Eisemann Center for Performing Arts in Richardson,running through Sunday,features American Ballet Theatre’s newest Principal dancer,Chloe Misseldine,alongside Tyler Angle of New York city Ballet. Texas Ballet Theater‘s production at the Winspear Opera House continues through December 7, showcasing Ben Stevenson, O.B.E.’s choreography.
Adding a touch of the unexpected,the Repertory Company Theatre in Richardson presents the Great Gatsby: A Live radio Show through Sunday,offering a unique take on the classic story. The Dallas Symphony Orchestra will also perform “ravel’s Rapsodie Espagnole” through Sunday at the Meyerson Symphony Center, featuring piano virtuoso javier Perianes. For a long-running tradition, Pocket Sandwich Theatre in carrollton presents Ebenezer Scrooge through December 23.
A Nostalgic Finale and Modern Beats
Sunday, November 30, brings a special treat for fans of a holiday classic. The Texas Trust CU Theatre in Grand Prairie will host A Nostalgic night with Macaulay Culkin: home Alone 35th Anniversary, featuring a screening of the film followed by an interview and Q&A with the star himself.
Rounding out the weekend, the genre-bending group Katseye will perform at The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory in Irving. formed through the reality competition series Dream Academy, this “global girl group” is making waves with thier unique sound and hit song “Gnarly.”
music icon David Byrne will perform at the music Hall at Fair Park on Friday and Saturday, supporting his 2025 album, Who is the Sky?
This Thanksgiving weekend promises a festive and memorable experience for all in Dallas, with a diverse range of events to celebrate the season.
