Dallas Holiday Guide: Family‑Friendly Movies, Lights, and Live Music
Dallas shines this holiday season with a lineup of family‑friendly events that blend classic charm with modern flair. From rooftop cinema to dazzling light displays, every outing promises memorable moments for guests of all ages.
Rooftop Cinema Club – Classic Holiday Films
Gather under the Dallas skyline for an intimate viewing of favorites like Elf, The Nightmare Before Christmas, and National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. Personal headphones, on‑site dining, and a BYOB option create a cozy yet sophisticated movie night. When: Check the schedule for nightly screenings.
Movies in the Park – Griggs Park Screenings
Enjoy free outdoor showings of beloved holiday titles such as The Holiday on November 30. Pack blankets, lawn chairs, and a picnic or sample treats from local food trucks for a relaxed, family‑friendly atmosphere. When: Every Monday in November.
NorthPark Center – Trains at NorthPark
Experience Texas’s most elaborate miniature train exhibit featuring over 630 trains on 1,300 feet of track, traversing a miniaturized cross‑country journey. The exhibit runs through January 3, offering a unique visual treat for both children and adults. When: Now through Jan. 3.
Dallas Arboretum – Holiday at the Arboretum
Discover the 12 Days of Christmas at Night display: 25‑foot‑tall gazebos reimagining the classic carol. The Arboretum also hosts a charming Christmas Village in Pecan Grove, complete with a German‑built authentic pyramid, tavern, chocolate shop, and toy shop. Tickets are sold online to maintain safe distancing. When: Now through Dec. 31.
Dallas Zoo – Zoo Lights Drive‑Thru
Take a scenic drive through a newly built path illuminated by over one million lights. Silk‑covered animal lanterns and a penguin‑themed ice palace add wonder to the familiar zoo experience. All visitors must wear masks, and the event is fully socially distanced. When: Nov. 20 through Jan. 3.
The Galleria – Holiday Traditions
Meet Santa (Nov. 20‑Dec. 24) or join his virtual visit from home. Experience Snowday, a multi‑sensory winter wonderland (Nov. 20‑Jan. 3), and attend the Galleria Dallas Illumination Celebration featuring the nation’s tallest indoor Christmas tree (Nov. 27‑Dec. 24). Each event incorporates rigorous cleaning, staff temperature checks, and mask requirements to ensure safety. When: Various dates; check the Galleria website for details.
Meyerson Symphony Center – Holiday Concerts
Start with Tchaikovsky’s “Nutcracker” (Nov. 27‑Nov. 29), then enjoy the Dallas Symphony Christmas Pops (Dec. 3‑Dec. 14) or a jazz showcase, “A Jazzy Christmas” (Dec. 22). Check the Symphony’s website for schedules and ticket information. When: Various dates; check the Symphony's website.
