Dallas Holiday Highlights: Book Your Seasonal Events Now

With Halloween still on the horizon, Dallas’s holiday season is already in full swing. Whether you’re a first‑time visitor or a local hosting guests, securing tickets and reservations early is essential to enjoy the city’s most celebrated events.

Holiday Tea at the Adolphus

Nov. 3 – Jan. 15

The Adolphus Hotel’s Holiday Tea remains Dallas’s most iconic winter tradition. A three‑course tasting menu—savory bites, sweet pastries, teas, and champagne—unfolds in the elegant French Room. Reservations opened Oct. 5; spots fill fast. The Hotel’s Holiday Tea for Two package guarantees a suite stay, complimentary valet, and a tea reservation for two.

Holiday at the Arboretum

Nov. 9 – Dec. 31

Named Texas’s best Christmas event by Southern Living, the Arboretum transforms into a Victorian wonderland. Over a million lights illuminate gazebos, a Christmas village, and Santa visits. Live entertainment and holiday shopping complete the experience.

Dallas Zoo Lights

Nov. 19 – Jan. 2

During select nights, the Dallas Zoo lights up a one‑mile corridor with more than a million LED displays and oversized, illuminated animals. The show syncs to music; radio broadcasts fill the car with holiday tunes. Afterward, visit the holiday village and pose with Santa.

Holiday Buffet at The Zodiac Room, Neiman Marcus

Nov. 26 – Dec. 31

After a one‑year hiatus, the Zodiac Room’s buffet returns. Guests can enjoy classic salads, prime rib, herbed turkey, and festive desserts. Reservations open Nov. 26 via OpenTable.

Texas Ballet Theater’s The Nutcracker

Nov. 26 – Dec. 5

From the weekend after Thanksgiving through early December, the Winspear Opera House hosts this beloved ballet. A must‑see for families and ballet enthusiasts alike.

Enchant

Nov. 26 – Jan. 2

After the State Fair of Texas, Fair Park reopens as Enchant—a Christmas village, maze, and ice rink. Special evenings include Feasts & Treats Night, Spirit of Dallas, and Paws & Claus for pet‑friendly fun.

Dallas Symphony Christmas Pops

Dec. 3 – 12

The Meyerson Symphony Center hosts a week of holiday classics, sing‑along carols, and even a touch of snow. A festive tradition that brings the community together.

Trans‑Siberian Orchestra

Dec. 22

Catch the world‑famous rock‑classical ensemble at the American Airlines Center. Two shows—3 p.m. and 8 p.m.—feature the full “Ghosts of Christmas Eve” program.