Dallas Holiday Weekend Guide: Nov 30 – Dec 2
This weekend, Nov. 30–Dec. 2, Dallas bursts into holiday cheer. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the city offers a curated lineup of dining, parades, and family‑friendly celebrations that promise memorable moments.
Friday, Nov. 30Begin the evening with a sophisticated dinner in Downtown Dallas. Choose from the French‑inspired dishes at Bullion or European classics at City Hall Bistro, housed in the newly renovated Adolphus Hotel. For families, the Neiman Marcus flagship store offers a holiday lunch buffet at The Zodiac featuring classic chicken salad, mandarin orange soufflé, prime rib, glazed smoked ham, and roasted butternut squash.
After dinner, attend the inaugural Deck the Plaza event at City Hall, presented by the City of Dallas and VisitDallas. The family‑friendly program runs from 4:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and includes interfaith speakers, a musical set by the Dallas Winds, and performances from American Idol alumni Jason and Michael Castro of the CASTRO band. Highlights include a special appearance by Linda Grey from the Dallas TV show, holiday treats, a visit from Santa, and the lighting of a 40‑foot tree.
Saturday, Dec. 1Start the day with coffee and a quick bite before joining the Dallas Holiday Parade at 10:00 a.m. The route begins at Commerce and Houston Streets and showcases festive floats, marching bands, and live entertainment. Attendance is free, with optional bleacher seats available for purchase.
For lunch, explore the Dallas Arts District and dine at Savor Gastropub or Yolk. In the afternoon, head to Klyde Warren Park for the Holiday Show and Tree Lighting from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Kids can meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, enjoy face‑painting, live music, and a touch of artificial snow. The evening culminates with a grand tree lighting ceremony.
After the park event, walk a few blocks to the AT&T Performing Arts Center for Reliant Lights Your Holidays. The venue will glow with LED artistry and a fireworks display, followed by a holiday concert featuring award‑winning group En Vogue and The Voice finalist RaeLynn. The show begins at 5:30 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 2Wrap up the weekend with a shopping spree at NorthPark Center, Dallas’s premier destination for both luxury and budget‑friendly finds. Families can enjoy Trains at NorthPark, the Scrooge Puppet Theatre, and a schedule of additional holiday activities.
Conclude your holiday adventure at Galleria Dallas, located just a few miles northwest. The new Santa’s Village offers a winter wonderland, photo opportunities with Santa, the country’s tallest indoor Christmas tree, and an ice rink.
