Holly, Jolly (& Safe) Christmas in Dallas
WELL, I FINALLY DID IT! I started a blog. I can’t tell you how many times I said I was going to start a blog and didn’t. Well… lookout internet because I have finally arrived and I am “ready to parrrttaaayyyyy“ (name that movie).
Anyway, the Christmas season is upon us! This is my absolute favorite time of year. The halls have been decked and the stockings are hung and I can’t help but ask “so now what?” It is an incredibly difficult year for so many people and my heart goes out to everyone whose lives have been affected and whose loved ones have been lost.
It’s more important than ever that we spend time with the ones we love because this life is so unpredictable and short. I’ve created a list of 7 things to do in or near Dallas to feel the holiday spirit while remaining safe and socially distant.
- Dallas Zoo Lights (Nov. 20th – Jan 3rd) – What could possibly make thousands of Christmas lights and zoo animals even better? The perfect holiday playlist blaring through your car speakers. This is now exactly what you can do at the Dallas Zoo’s new Zoo Lights drive-thru experience. Load up the fam, bring along some cocoa and good tunes, and enjoy the more than one million lights at the zoo. Perfect for the whole family.
- Holiday at the Arboretum (Nov. 7th – Dec. 31st) – Take a stroll through the beautifully decorated gardens with your special someone, or pose for a family photo in front of one of the many Christmas trees at the arboretum. The 12 Days of Christmas at the arboretum is a Dallas holiday tradition and is sure to get you in the Christmas spirit. While you’re there enjoy the Christmas Village, food & beverage options, and visit with Santa. It’s a great way to experience the magic of the season while staying safe.
- Rooftop Cinema Club (Dec. 7th – Dec. 23rd) – I am personally SO excited for this one. The Rooftop Cinema Club is in full holiday swing across all their drive-in locations. Enjoy the city views and a good holiday flick from the comfort of your very own car. This is such a fun date night idea during the holidays while traditional movie theatres aren’t operating and it’s sure to be a memorable experience. The full list of holiday screenings is available on their website and it’s less than $30 per vehicle.
- The Dallas Symphony Orchestra – Music is one of the most magical parts of the holiday season and the Dallas Symphony Orchestra is having all kinds of holiday concerts. Enjoy A Jazzy Christmas at the orchestra and hear all your favorite jazz tunes on December 22nd, or take a trip down memory lane at Cyrus Chestnut Trio: A Charlie Brown Christmas on December 23rd. Seats are limited due to social distancing protocol.
- Klyde Warren Park Christmasa Tree Lighting (December 20th) – There is just something magic that occures when with friends and loved ones for a Christmas tree lighting. Klyde Warren Park in the heart of Downtown Dallas is hosting a tree lighting celebreation at 6:00PM with Santa and Booker T. Washington High School studen carolers. A reading of The Nutcracker and A Taste of the Holidays, presented by Texas Ballet Theater and Texas Ballet Theater School. Klyde Warren Park has so many different events this December so be sure to check out their calendar online. Can’t make it out? CBS 11 will broadcast the annual event on Sunday, December 20, at 7:30 AM and again on KXTA Channel 21 at 4 PM for those at home to enjoy!
- The Trains at North Park – This has been a family favorite for years! Located at North Park Mall, enjoy the remarkable miniature display of trains weaving in and out of Christmas trees and the gorgeous holiday decorations. This activity is perfect for children and there is even an option to create your own railcar online to add to the display. Best part? The Trains at North Park benefits the Ronald McDonald House of Dallas (RMHD) and has raised more than $13 million since 1987.
- Gingerbread Village (Now – January 11th) – Located at the Shops of Legacy in Plano, this is another drive-thru experience that you and your family are sure to LOVE! Don’t feel like driving? Guests have the option to stroll the exhibit as well. There are SO many perfect places to snap a photo and even a mailbox to send your letters to Santa. And the word on the street it, this mailbox has a direct line to the North Pole! Find the village in the center of Lone Star Drive surrounding Apricot Lane and ella bleu.
So however you may be spending this Holiday Season, know that you are important and special and deserved to be loved and celebrated. So stay safe and wear your mask and be a little more patient with yourself and others right now. Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas! Now, lets get to celebrating.
