With Thanksgiving over and Christmas around the corner, there are multiple tree-lighting events and more for North Texans to enjoy across the region.
Tree lighting festivals can be found in the cities of Denton, Dallas, and Farmers Branch at the start of December.
Tree Lighting Festivals
Denton
On December 2, a tree lighting event will be held at the downtown Denton courthouse, with festivities beginning at 5:30 p.m. The night starts with a performance by the Denton Community Band, the event page shares, with the tree lighting to come after.
“Between three stages you can enjoy performances until 9:00 p.m. including from the David Pierce Orchestra, Denton’s Dynamic Duo and The Festival Ballet of North Central Texas. Plus, several performances from our educational institutions including the Denton High Jazz Band, Ryan Strutters and the TWU Pioneer Pride Dance Team,” the website explains.
That’s not all. Williams Square, just a short walk away, offers a whole Winter Wonderland. Wristband holders ($10 for an all-night pass) can enjoy horse and carriage rides, snow hill sledding, and a trackless train. There will also be free bounce houses, arts and crafts, a strolling Grinch, and more.
Santa can also be seen on the town square. Wristbands can be purchased in advance but are not needed to get into the event.
Dallas
A 50-foot-tall holiday tree will be lit on December 2 in Dallas at City Hall Plaza, KERA News reported. The tree will be lit by City Manager T.C. Broadnax and Dallas Mayor Pro Tem Carolyn King Arnold.
The festivities will also feature food trucks, a tree decoration exhibit, train rides, and more, according to the event website.
“Families are invited to come and enjoy the free holiday-themed and free fun activities,” the Deck the Plaza page shares. “Santa Claus and special interactive characters will be present. Children will have an opportunity to hop on the carriage rides and play with real snow while enjoying the live music and entertainment on stage.”
Festivities begin at 6 p.m. and entry is free.
Farmers Branch
There will also be a tree lighting festival in the city of Farmers Branch, KERA News reported, in addition to a dog-friendly holiday celebration.
Christmas in the Branch will be held on December 3, starting at 5 p.m. This is an annual event for the city, but this year there will be a new show added, the Holiday Drone Show.
Additional activities that can be enjoyed at Christmas in the Branch, according to the event website, include fireworks show, a visit from Santa, carnival rides, and ice skating.
On December 2 in Farmers Branch, North Texans can stop by Feliz NaviDog at Barney Wood Bark Park. The dog-friendly celebration will feature photo opportunities, vendors, food, and more.
Parades and Performances
Some of the other holiday festivities that can be found in North Texas leading up to Christmas include parades and performances. Two events in Dallas and Fort Worth are free.
Dallas
The annual Dallas Holiday Parade will be held on December 3, starting at 10 a.m., KERA News reported. It is estimated that around 500,000 spectators will attend the parade.
Fort Worth
On December 4 at 7 p.m., the 40th annual Messiah Sing will take place at the Broadway Baptist Church. Attendees can join in with the singing, accompanied by musicians from the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra.
Grapevine
For the cost of $25, guests are welcome to take in a bit of ballet at Meadowmere Park in Grapevine from December 2 to 4. North Central Ballet will put on its annual production of The Nutcracker. While there will be a food truck, outside food and drink are welcome.
