Holiday Things to Do in Dallas: What to Book Right Now
The holidays might be a while away, but there are highly coveted tickets to secure before you put up the holiday decor.
We haven't even made it to Halloween yet, but the holidays are already on our minds. For those visiting Dallas during the holidays for the first time or locals hosting family and friends in Dallas this holiday season, it's key to have plans secured and tickets booked to some of the most joyful and popular holiday events in the city well in advance. Use our list to start planning now!
Updated October 2025
Holiday Tea at the Adolphus
Dates: November 6 - January 11
Location: The Adolphus | 1321 Commerce St
It's known as one of Dallas' most revered holiday traditions, and we're here to tell you it does not disappoint. The three-course tasting menu features savory and sweet bites, accompanied by teas and champagne, all in a beautiful setting within The French Room at The Adolphus Hotel. Reservations open October 7, so availability may already be limited. Book soon!
Deck the Halls: Holiday Traditions at the White House
Dates: November 18
Location: George W. Bush Presidential Center | 2943 SMU Boulevard
Experience the holidays from a unique perspective with an inside look at White House traditions, shared by the people who helped create them. Hear stories from Dori Thornton Waller, former White House Deputy Social Secretary; Sara Armstrong, former Deputy Chief of Staff to Mrs. Laura Bush; and Susan Whitson, former Press Secretary to Mrs. Laura Bush. The conversation will be moderated by Kristin King, Chief Operating Officer of the George W. Bush Institute.
Holiday at the Arboretum
Dates: November 11 - Janaury 4
Location: Dallas Arboretum | 8525 Garland Rd
Southern Living Magazine called it Texas's best Christmas event, and we have to agree! Every year, the gardens are transformed with elaborate Victorian-style gazebos, each representing the stories of the famous Christmas carol. At night, the gardens shine brightly with more than a million lights! There's also a Christmas village, where Santa Claus visits the kids, as well as shopping and entertainment to enjoy.
Dallas Zoo Lights
Dates: Select nights, November 14 - January 4
Location: Dallas Zoo | 650 S R.L. Thornton Fwy
See the zoo after dark! On select nights through January 4, the Dallas Zoo comes alive with more than a million lights, intricately designed displays, and oversized lighted animal sculptures. Visitors can enjoy a walk-through experience to see the best of the Zoo up close and in person. You can't miss the holiday-themed displays in ZooNorth and Wilds of Africa!
Texas Ballet Theater's The Nutcracker
Dates: November 28 - December 7
Location: Winspear Opera House | 2403 Flora St
Tchaikovsky's most famous composition takes over the Winspear Opera House in November and December (they start the weekend after Thanksgiving, for those hosting family for turkey!), and it's definitely one of those must-do holiday events in Dallas.
Merry & Bright Night
Dates: December 12-21
Location: George W. Bush Presidential Center | 2943 SMU Boulevard
Celebrate the season at the annual Merry & Bright Night, a holiday tradition for the whole family. Enjoy cookies, children’s activities, and story time with Mrs. Claus, then take part in a favorite Bush Center tradition, photos with Santa in the Oval Office!
Dallas Symphony Christmas Pops
Dates: December 12-21
Location: Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center | 2301 Flora St
The Dallas Symphony Orchestra is back with its beloved holiday tradition, Christmas Pops, for a week-long run at the Meyerson Symphony Center. The show is filled with classic holiday favorites and sing-along carols – and we hear there's even a little bit of snow!
Dallas Black Theatre Presents: ESPRESSO NUTCRACKER
Date: December 13
Location: The Majestic Theatre | 1925 Elm St
Experience the timeless story of Clara’s magical Christmas Eve dream in Espresso Nutcracker, performed by Dallas Black Dance Academy students. Journey with toy soldiers, the mischievous Mouse King, twirling snowflakes, and waltzing flowers in this narrated, hour-long performance. At the Majestic Theatre, the Sugar Plum Fairy presides over a winter wonderland, bringing this cherished holiday classic to life with a touch of Christmas magic.
15th Annual New Year's Eve 2026 Champagne Life: ROYALTY MASQUERADE
Date: December 31
Location: Aloft Dallas Love Field | 2333 West Mockingbird Lane
Celebrate 15 years of Champagne Life at the Masquerade & Casino New Year’s Eve Extravaganza in Dallas. Enjoy a 4-hour premium open bar, live jazz, three celebrity DJs, lavish dinner options, casino tables, and multiple party zones. Arrive in style on the red carpet, capture moments on the black carpet, and ring in 2026 surrounded by glamour, luxury, and unforgettable memories. Black tie attire required; guests must be 21+.
