‘Tis the season to be jolly…so put away your holiday shopping list (just for a few hours!) and take in the magic of the sights and sounds of the season in the (Saint) Nick of time!
by Savannah Peer | Staff Writer
No. 1 The 12 Days of Christmas at the Dallas Arboretum
Many people are familiar with the twelve days of Christmas song, so why not enjoy it in a three dimensional experience? Everyone loves holiday lights no matter how old you are, and seeing over 500,000 lights in one place is something that no one in the family will want to miss. For tickets and registration visit dallasarboretum.org.
No. 2 Panther Island Ice in Fort Worth
True, it’s a bit of a drive, but it’s also a long winter break. Sharpen you skating skills at Panther Island Ice beginning November 20th. Fort Worth’s only outdoor skating rink remains open 7 days a week, including all holidays, through January 18th. Even thought Texas isn’t known for outdoor winter sports, Panther Island Ice is a cool way to make the most of our short winter season. pantherislandice.com
No. 3 Home for the Holidays in McKinney
The weekend after Thanksgiving in Historic Downtown McKinney features non-stop family activities, entertainment and food galore. Christmas Tree Lighting and Candlelight Shopping on Friday, Nov. 27 at 6 p.m. and start (or finish) your Christmas shopping with Candlelight Shopping until 8 p.m. at all the unique shops on the square. McKinneyTexas.org/calendar
No. 4 Sounds of the Season at Watters Creek
Enjoy live music, non-stop festivities and free carriage rides while you tackle your holiday shopping list. Dozens of unique boutiques plus some of the best family dining options gathered in one area. Throw in a slice of oreo cheesecake from the Cheesecake Factory and you have yourself one happy teenager. Check details daily at www.watterscreek.com.
No. 5 Dickens in Historic Plano
Charles Dickens idea of a Christmas Carol is brought to life with this historic festival in Downtown Plano. A fun way to travel to the activities is to catch the DART train from the Bush Turnpike or Parker Road DART stations. plano.gov. See Calendar of Events for more details.
No. 6 Holiday Trail of Lights at the Heard Museum
Even though the cold weather is on its way, there is nothing wrong with enjoying a short nature trail with Christmas lights. Bundle up, load up the entire family, and bring hot chocolate to enjoy a trail of holiday lights at the Heard Museum. For admission fees, dates, and times visit www.visitplano.com.
No. 7 Jingle Bell Run/Walk
Run or walk, with jingle bells on your shoe laces, for a great cause this winter season on this 1 mile or 5k holiday race series on Dec. 22 at Hilton Anatole. Anyone and everyone can join this family-friendly event, and it’s a wonderful way to spend time with the family while giving back to the community as well. Dallasjinglebellrun.com
No. 8 Adolphus Tea
Afternoon tea is the best way to warm up on a cold wintry day. Plan a mother and daughter date at the Adolphus Hotel for afternoon tea time. Four courses are served along with a variation of teas in this two hour event every Friday through Sunday. For more information about reservations and the menu visit www.hoteladolphus.com/dining/afternoontea.
No. 9 Studio Movie Grill
It’s hard enough finding a restaurant everyone can agree on, never mind a movie. Well, enter SMG, the perfect spot for the entire family (or sneak away for date night! The newest location in The Colony is a spectacular mix of state-of-the-art sound and screens plus a top-notch American grill menu and premium bar delivered right to your personal table. Multiple locations. Note: The Plano location is under renovation. studiomoviegrill.com
No. 10 The Jingle Ball
Ok, people, it’s loud, it’s rowdy and it’s not the Dallas Mavs but this is THE concert of the holiday season. Trust us when we say your kids will think you are the coolest parents ever (unless you start dancing in your seat.) 12/01: Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center One Direction, Calvin Harris, Demi Lovato, 5 Seconds of Summer, Ellie Goulding, Zedd, Shawn Mendes, Tove Lo, Charlie Puth, DNCE and more. jingleball.vividseats.com
