Just because the holidays are in full swing doesn’t mean North Texas slows down. From family-friendly light displays to elevated Christmas dinners, there’s no shortage of ways to get out and enjoy the season without overcomplicating the plan.
This roundup highlights a mix of festive outings and easygoing experiences across the region, offering options that fit naturally into packed schedules and holiday to-do lists. Consider it a curated snapshot of what’s happening now — simple, seasonal and designed to help you make the most of the moment without adding extra stress.
When: Dec. 22, 6:30 p.m.
Where: Eisemann Center, 2351 Performance Dr., Richardson
More info
A holiday tradition takes center stage as Collin County Ballet Theatre presents The Nutcracker, accompanied live by the Plano Symphony Orchestra. Under the direction of Kirt and Linda Hathaway, with Maestro Hector Guzman conducting, the production brings Clara’s magical journey to life in the Land of the Sweets. Featuring international ballet artists Taras Domitro and Daynelis Muñoz alongside local company dancers and students from the Hathaway Academy of Ballet, the performance offers a classic, family-friendly way to celebrate the season at its peak.
When: Dec. 23, 8 p.m.
Where: Ford Center at The Star, 9 Cowboys Way, Frisco
More info
Photo: The Frisco Bowl
College bowl season returns to Frisco with the 2025 Scooter’s Coffee Frisco Bowl, bringing UNLV and Ohio to the field for a prime-time matchup. The annual postseason game draws fans from across the region, pairing big-game energy with the buzz of The Star on a winter night. It’s a classic holiday-week outing — loud, lively and perfectly timed for football fans looking to keep the season going.
When: Dec. 1–30, 7 to 10 p.m. (weekdays) and 7 to 11 p.m. (weekends)
Where: Deerfield neighborhood, Northwest Plano
More info
A neighborhood-wide glow show turns ordinary streets into a slow-roll tour of animated lawns and sparkling rooftops as Deerfield flips the switch on its well-worn North Texas holiday reputation. Visitors cruise the displays from their cars, playlists ready and restroom strategy planned, because the lights don’t pause for bathroom breaks. It’s the kind of jam-the-car ride that proves tradition doesn’t need tickets, just headlights and a healthy tolerance for charming traffic. Click here to learn more about the home that is earning major attention.
When: Dec. 23
Where: 902 E. 16th St., Plano
More info
Artist Benefit the Creator brings his technicolored cowboy persona to Plano with an exhibition of bold, vibrant works that blend simple figures with layered narratives. Known for his playful use of language, symbolism and saturated color, the multidisciplinary artist creates visual stories that feel both childlike and intentional. The result is a body of work that taps into curiosity, joy and nostalgia, inviting viewers to reconnect with the imaginative mindset of youth.
When: Christmas Eve, 4–10 p.m.; Christmas Day
Where: 6655 Winning Circle Drive, Frisco
Reservations
Photo: Lombardi Cucina Italiana
Lombardi Cucina Italiana will be open for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, offering dinner service with its regular menu alongside chef-driven holiday specials. Seasonal highlights include a Feast of the Seven Fishes featuring a variety of seafood preparations, lobster ravioli with cherry tomato–burrata sauce, pan-seared Alaskan halibut with cacio e pepe risotto, a classic Tournedos Rossini with beef tenderloin and foie gras, and a wagyu tomahawk ribeye served with rich accompaniments.
When: Nov. 21–Dec. 28, 2025
Where: Dallas Midtown, 13331 Preston Rd, Dallas
More info
Forget the North Pole, Santa and Mrs. Claus are vacationing in Dallas this year and they’ve transformed Midtown into a cozy, snow-dusted mountain hideaway. Coca-Cola’s Classic Christmas is back with an all-new Alpine Adventure theme, complete with ski-lodge vibes and just enough Texas flair to make it perfectly weird. Visitors can expect to hit the rink for alpine ice skating, brave the bigger-than-ever snow slides and meet the jolly old elf in Santa’s Ski Gondola. This isn’t just about lights; it’s a full-blown Texas holiday block party featuring holiday karaoke, ugly sweater contests, live bands and carolers. It’s all the whimsy and nostalgia you can handle, spread across 90,000 square feet of twinkling fun.
When: Nov. 28– Dec. 28 | 6 to 9:30 p.m.
Where: Heritage Farmstead Museum, 1900 W 15th St, Plano
More info
Photo: Rebecca Silvestri | Local Profile
Heritage Farmstead lights up for its 5th season with more than two million lights across the historic 19th-century grounds. Expect festive photo ops, a towering 30-foot Christmas tree and plenty of treats like hot cocoa, s’mores, donuts and popcorn. Families can enjoy themed nights featuring princesses, superheroes, Star Wars characters and Santa. Adults get their own night out at the Red, White and Lights Wine Walk, complete with a souvenir glass. This beloved Plano tradition has something for everyone. To check out our guide for where to see the brightest and most festive holiday light displays, click here.
When: Nov. 15-29, 2025
Where: Galleria Dallas, 13350 Dallas Parkway, Dallas
More info
Holiday magic takes over as a whimsical winter wonderland returns, complete with immersive sets, sparkling photo ops and a few surprises hidden behind every frosted corner. Families can explore Santa’s village, step aboard a train bound for the North Pole and snap Instagram-worthy shots inside this larger-than-life holiday experience. It’s festive, playful and just the right mix of nostalgia and sparkle to kick off the season.
When: Christmas Day, 11 a.m.–3 p.m.
Where: 5250 N O’Connor Blvd Suite 146, Irving
Reservations
Photo: Sanjh
Sanjh will host a festive Christmas Day brunch buffet that pairs classic holiday favorites with the restaurant’s modern take on Indian cuisine. Guests can enjoy interactive live chaat and dosa stations, appetizers such as tandoori lamb chops, and a roast station featuring herb-roasted turkey and maple-glazed ham. The buffet also includes a variety of curries, dals and vegetarian dishes, followed by desserts like gulab jamun and pecan pie.
When: Until Jan. 11, 2025
Where: Brewery at Truck Yard, 5959 Grove Ln Ste B, The Colony
More info and times
Holiday cheer goes casual as a festive pop-up transforms a brewery space into a twinkly hangout filled with themed drinks, photo-friendly décor and come-as-you-are energy. Guests can stop in for seasonal cocktails, snap a few merry pictures and soak up the spirit without tickets or pressure. It’s the kind of place where Santa would absolutely grab a drink before clocking out.
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