Dallas Holiday Light Displays
Bring out the family to enjoy some of Dallas' best holiday displays.
Updated November 2025
Experience the best holiday lights in town this year!
Dallas transforms into a festive winter wonderland the moment Halloween comes to an end. Almost overnight, the city sparkles with Christmas lights and extravagant holiday displays. Each year, my significant other and I make it a tradition to visit the most picture-perfect spots around town. Now that we both have nieces and nephews, it’s become even more special, a family tradition we all look forward to. Here are some of the places we plan to explore this winter:
Neighborhoods That Shine Bright:
One of my favorite ways to end winter date nights is by driving through different neighborhoods to see which houses went all out with their holiday decorations. It’s always fun comparing each display and spotting the ones that are bound to go viral on TikTok!
Highland Park
One of the first stops every winter has to be the beautiful neighborhood of Highland Park. There’s something magical about seeing the grand homes decked out in dazzling, over-the-top lights. Driving through the neighborhood honestly feels like a scene straight out of The Grinch! Start your route at Armstrong Parkway and Preston Road, and make your way through the glittering streets. Who knows, you might even spot Martha May Whovier and Betty Lou Who competing for the most spectacular display!
Optional Experience: Book a Highland Park Carriage Tour and enjoy a magical ride through the neighborhood in one of the cutest holiday carriages!
Swiss Avenue
Another neighborhood that feels straight out of a movie is Swiss Avenue, located in East Dallas. The historic homes here radiate classic Christmas charm while showcasing creative and modern light displays. Swiss Avenue perfectly blends timeless elegance with a fresh holiday twist, never failing to impress year after year.
Kessler Park
In the Oak Cliff area, you’ll find the light filled neighborhood of Kessler Park. The beautifully decorated homes here showcase the community’s festive spirit, creating a cozy and magical holiday atmosphere. Start your route at the intersection of Colorado Boulevard and Lausanne Avenue, marked by the large illuminated trees. After enjoying the beautiful displays, head over to the nearby Bishop Arts District to explore its festive bars and enjoy their holiday-themed menus. Trust me, it's the cherry on top to wrap up a joyful night!
Tall, Tall Trees
Galleria Dallas
Why not mix a little holiday shopping with a picture-perfect Christmas tree view? Galleria Dallas is the place to do it, home to the world’s tallest indoor Christmas tree standing at an impressive 95 feet (yes, even taller than Dallas icon, Big Tex!). If you really want to get up close and personal, lace up your skates and glide around the tree on their famous ice-skating rink.
Klyde Warren Park
Klyde Warren Park in Downtown Dallas will surely get you in the holiday spirit this season. The park comes alive with a beautifully lit Christmas tree, creating the perfect setting for a festive stroll. Grab a bite from one of the many food trucks, snap some adorable family or couple photos, and soak in the cheerful holiday atmosphere.
AT&T Discovery District
The AT&T Discovery District is another place that should be added to your must visit list. Their massive media wall will showcase the countdown to the lighting of their 30-foot Christmas tree, a true holiday staple in the heart of downtown Dallas. The vibrant lights here will make it impossible to put your camera down!
The Adolphus Hotel
Step back in time to the 19th century at the historic Adolphus Hotel and take in their grand 25-foot Christmas tree, beautifully displayed in the heart of their cozy social lobby. The hotel is beautifully adorned with festive holiday décor, creating such a charming atmosphere that you’ll be tempted to book a stay just to soak it all in a little longer.
Fairmont Hotel
Celebrate the joy of the season at the Fairmont Hotel, home to one of the most beautifully lit Christmas trees in the city. This luxury Dallas landmark embodies charm, elegance, and true holiday spirit. It’s also the perfect setting for a corporate celebration or a festive gathering with friends and family.
Galleria Dallas
Why not mix a little holiday shopping with a picture-perfect Christmas tree view? Galleria Dallas is the place to do it, home to the world’s tallest indoor Christmas tree standing at an impressive 95 feet (yes, even taller than Dallas icon, Big Tex!). If you really want to get up close and personal, lace up your skates and glide around the tree on their famous ice-skating rink.
Walk-Through Winter Wonderlands
Holiday at the Arboretum
If you’re looking for an immersive holiday exhibit to stroll through, the Holidays at the Arboretum is a must each year! For 2025, they’re introducing Night Glow, a one-of-a-kind after-dark experience featuring artist-curated light installations. The glowing art mixed with the botanical beauty of the gardens creates a truly magical atmosphere. Running from November 12, 2025 to January 4, 2026, reserve your tickets to this magical event now.
Astra Lumina: An Enchanted Night Walk Amongst the Stars
Dallas is full of unique and extraordinary holiday experiences, but Astra Lumina truly stands out. This enchanted night walk at the Trinity Forest Adventure Park is filled with celestial pathways that will leave you captivated and eager for more. This immersive experience runs from November 6th all through December so grab your tickets before they sell out.
SNOWDAY Winter Pop-Up
A social media influencer's paradise, SNOWDAY's Wondrous Adventure at Galleria Dallas takes travelers through 11 holiday-themed rooms made to be unique photo backdrops. While not a traditional Christmas light display, you never know what you'll find around each corner at SNOWDAY.
Bonus Activity: Skate through a winter wonderland at the Galleria Dallas's ice skating rink!
Dallas Zoo Lights
The holidays are another perfect reason to make a stop at the zoo for their annual Dallas Zoo Lights. After spending the day admiring the zoo’s many adorable animals, stick around for an evening illuminated by thousands of twinkling lights and stunning animal-shaped, silk-covered lanterns. Even the non-animal lovers are sure to be enchanted and swept up in the Christmas spirit. This year’s event will be held from November 14, 2025, through January 4, 2026.
Guided Tours
Downtown Holiday Lights Food Tour
In the mood for a holiday adventure filled with delicious local bites? The Downtown Dallas Holiday Lights Food Tour is the perfect choice! Santa’s helper will guide you through the city’s most festive downtown spots, where you’ll get to soak in the holiday magic and taste your way through dishes from some of Dallas’ best restaurants. It’s the perfect way to experience the true flavor of a Texas holiday season, all in one evening!
Christmas Light Bus
If you're looking for a festive outing for the whole family, hop on the magical Christmas Light Bus this winter. This 90-minute private ride will have you feeling oh so jolly riding through the enchanting streets of Highland Park and University Park. You’ll have the chance to snap photos on board and even at a special photo stop along the way!
Helicopter Christmas Light Tour
If you're looking for a more exhilarating experience, there is no better way to celebrate the holiday season in DFW than coming aboard their Turbine Polar Express! Explore miles of wonderful lights, decorations, massive Christmas trees, and exciting sights to behold from Santa’s very own altitude. Grab a friend and take flight now!