Dallas Holiday Lights Guide: Top Family‑Friendly Spots for December 2026
Kick off the holiday season in Dallas by indulging in festive light displays that blend safety and wonder. Grab a warm drink, bring family or friends, and explore these family‑friendly, socially‑distanced experiences that will make December unforgettable.
Candy Cane Lane (Victory Park) At the American Airlines Center, the Candy Cane Lane experience transforms the AAC’s Silver parking garage into a luminous wonderland. Drive through sparkling displays, meet Santa and his elves from the safety of your car, and snap photo‑opportunities that keep everyone at a comfortable distance. Afterward, dine at North Italia or Mesero in Victory Park, and return with hot cocoa to savor the holiday spirit. Admission is $40 per vehicle, or $60 for the VIP package. Purchase tickets here.
The 12 Days of Christmas at Night (East Dallas) Part of the Dallas Arboretum’s holiday display, this exhibit features lit gazebos, pipers, swans, and more, all illuminated by one million lights. From now until Dec. 30, book advance tickets to stroll through the picturesque Christmas Village, enjoy live entertainment, and meet Santa. Bring a picnic basket or dine at the Arboretum’s Holiday Dinner in the DeGolyer Restaurant. Tickets are essential to avoid disappointment. Purchase tickets here.
Dallas Zoo Lights Drive‑Thru (South Dallas) The Dallas Zoo offers a drive‑through lights show for $65 per vehicle (non‑member price). Guests can enjoy the zoo’s holiday illumination from the comfort of their car, with chances to spot animals along the route. Holiday packages are available to enhance the experience. Tickets must be bought ahead of time and you’ll receive an assigned arrival slot. Get your tickets here.
Reliant Lights Your Holidays (Arts District) Head to Sammons Park to witness half a million LED lights from Dec. 4 to Dec. 20. Walk or drive through the AT&T Performing Arts Center and enjoy performances by local artists such as the Texas Ballet Theatre on Friday and Saturday nights. Guests are asked to wear face coverings and maintain social distance. Learn more here.
SNOWDAY Winter Pop‑Up (North Dallas) This pop‑up at Galleria Dallas features 11 holiday‑themed rooms designed for photo‑ops, equipped with wristband technology for seamless, no‑touch snapshots. Although not a traditional light display, each room offers a unique surprise. The pop‑up runs until Jan. 3. Get tickets here.
Christmas Lights, Chocolate & Sips Tours (Downtown Dallas) Join Dallas by Chocolate for a heated motorcoach tour of the Park Cities and Downtown Dallas. Enjoy adult‑only or family‑friendly routes, sampling desserts, tacos, margaritas, wine, or pizza along the way. Book tickets here.
Kessler Park (Oak Cliff) Oak Cliff’s Kessler Park hosts an annual decorating competition that draws visitors to beautifully lit homes. Drive along Colorado Avenue to see dazzling displays, and enjoy the Dallas skyline backdrop. Afterward, stop by the Bishop Arts District for a bite to eat.
For more ideas on what to do in Dallas this December, click here.
