The holiday season is here, and North Texas is lighting up with festive cheer. Whether you're looking for dazzling light shows, outdoor skating, or charming tree lighting ceremonies, there’s something for everyone in Arlington, Fort Worth, and the surrounding cities. Here’s your local guide to the top Holiday events this December.

Arlington

1. Arlington Holiday Lights Parade & Tree Lighting

• Date: December 13, 2025 at 6:00 PM
• Details: The celebration kicks off early in the afternoon with “Reindeer Games” (crafts, face painting, photos with Santa) at the Arlington Public Library and First Baptist Church lawns. The parade rolls at 6 PM, followed by the lighting of a 65-foot Christmas tree. 
• More Info

2. Six Flags Holiday in the Park

• Dates: November 23, 2025 - January 4, 2026 (select days)
• Details: Immerse yourself in a winter wonderland with over 2.5 million lights, live shows, snowfall on Merry Main Street, holiday rides, and a nightly tree lighting.
• Tickets & Info

3. Texas Christkindl Market

• Dates: November 28 - December 23 (2025)
• Details: A family-friendly, German-inspired Christmas market held at the North Plaza of Globe Life Field. Shop for ornaments, holiday décor, treats, and more.
• More Info

4. Frostival Texas

• Dates: Early–mid December
• Details: Step into a winter wonderland at Howell Family Farms, where holiday magic comes alive under a canopy of twinkling lights. Wander through the “Trail of Lights,” enjoy festive treats and hot cocoa, and take part in seasonal crafts that delight guests of all ages.
• More Info

Grapevine

1. ICE! at the Gaylord Texan

• Dates: Mid-November through early January
• Details: Step into a world of hand-carved ice sculptures, ice slides, and themed holiday scenes kept at a chilly 9 degrees. A must-see attraction for families and holiday lovers.
• More Info

2. North Pole Express

• Dates: Throughout December
• Details: Enjoy a magical train ride with holiday characters, carols, and Christmas cheer. A charming family tradition that sells out each year.
• More Info

3. Parade of Lights

• Date: December 4, 2025
• Details: Featuring more than 100 lighted floats and marching groups, this festive nighttime parade brings thousands to Historic Downtown Grapevine.
• More Info

4. Christmas at the Palace Theatre

• Dates: Throughout December
• Details: Classic Christmas movies and live holiday performances in a beautiful restored 1940s theater. A nostalgic, cozy holiday outing.
• More Info

5. Peace Plaza Ice Rink

• Dates: Runs through the holiday season (check the ticket site for specific dates)
• Details: Skate under the twinkling lights at Grapevine’s Peace Plaza. The outdoor rink is open for all ages and offers a truly festive winter experience in the heart of downtown.
• Tickets & Info

Fort Worth

1. Gift of Lights – Texas Motor Speedway

• Dates: November 27, 2025 - January 4, 2026
• Details: Drive through a two-mile course with 3 million twinkling lights, glowing tunnels, and festive installations. The route takes about 45 minutes.
• Tickets: $35 per car (as of current pricing)
• More Info & Tickets

2. Christmas in the Garden at the Fort Worth Botanic Garden

• Dates: Mid-November through early January

• Details: A serene and stunning holiday lights experience featuring illuminated garden paths, festive displays, and seasonal treats.
• More Info

3. Texas Ballet Theater’s The Nutcracker (at Bass Hall)

• Dates: November 28 – December 7 & December 12 - 28

• Details: A cherished holiday tradition in Fort Worth. Enjoy a world-class ballet performance of this timeless Christmas classic.
• More Info

Colleyville

Breakfast with Santa (Hosted by the Colleyville Lions Club)

• Date: December 6, 2025
• Details: Enjoy a warm breakfast, photos with Santa, children’s crafts, and community fellowship at this beloved Colleyville tradition.
• More Info

Southlake

1. Santa’s Village at Southlake Town Square

• Dates: Open throughout December (check the link below for this year’s schedule)
• Details: Southlake Town Square transforms into a festive holiday destination where families can visit Santa’s Village. Complete with free photos with Santa, holiday characters, crafts, music, and plenty of shopping and dining options nearby. The square is beautifully decorated with lights and seasonal displays, making it perfect for an evening stroll.
• More Info

2. Holiday of Lights at Southlake Town Square

• Dates: Mid-November through early January

• Details: A beautiful light display throughout Town Square offering nightly photo ops, festive music, and a cheerful holiday atmosphere.
• More Info

3. Sounds of the Season Holiday Concert

• Date: December 16, 2025
• Details: Enjoy live holiday music from talented local performers at White's Chapel Methodist Church.  A perfect festive night out for families and couples alike.
• More Info

Other Mid-Cities Holiday Events (NRH, Bedford, Hurst, Others)

NRH - Run Run Rudolph Family Fun Event

• Date: December 6, 2025
• Details: This festive family fun run winds through the decorated NRH trails and features holiday music, costumes, photo ops, and activities for all ages. Perfect for families looking to get active while enjoying the Christmas season.
• More Info

Bedford - Christmas in the Park

• Date: December 5, 2025
• Details: A hometown-style holiday festival with lights, entertainment, vendors, kids’ activities, and Santa visits.
• More Info

Bedford - Christmas on the Square

• Date: December 6, 2025
• Details: Downtown Bedford comes alive with music, reindeer, shopping, food vendors, and holiday attractions.
• More Info

Hurst – Pawliday Pics

• Date: December 6, 2025
• Details: Celebrate the season with this family-friendly event featuring a chance to snap memorable photos with your furry friends!
• More Info

Tips for Visiting

• Plan ahead: Some events (like Gift of Lights) can get busy, especially on weekends. Buy tickets online if possible.
• Dress warm: Outdoor events + ice rink = layers, gloves, and comfy shoes.
• Use the event websites: For the most up-to-date info on times, tickets, and any schedule changes, refer to each event’s official page.
• Capture the moments: These are perfect for family photos, Instagram content, or even a highlight reel for your business blog or newsletter.

As you explore all the festive events our North Texas communities have to offer, our team at Medford Design-Build wishes you a joyful and safe holiday season. Whether you’re enjoying dazzling lights, skating under the stars, or spending time with family, we hope your home and community feel warm, welcoming, and full of cheer. From all of us at Medford, happy holidays and here’s to a wonderful New Year!

Ready to host the holidays in your dream remodel next year? Contact us today to get started!