Best Christmas Lights in Dallas-Fort Worth 2026: Top Displays to See

Photo Credit: Austin James | Visit Fort Worth

Dallas-Fort Worth Christmas lights transform the metroplex into one of the country's most sensational holiday destinations every December. From iconic tree lighting ceremonies to dazzling neighborhood displays, drive-through experiences, and walkable light trails, Dallas-Fort Worth's holiday season delivers a packed lineup of unforgettable experiences for families, couples, and visitors alike. Here's your complete guide to the best Christmas light displays in Dallas-Fort Worth for 2026.

The Best Christmas Light Displays in Dallas-Fort Worth This Season

Soak in the sights of the season at that best Christmas light displays throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex!

1. Klyde Warren Park's Tree Lighting Celebration — Dallas

Klyde Warren Park, the famous green deck park suspended over the Woodall Rodgers Freeway, hosts its annual tree lighting on the first Saturday of December. Presented by H-E-B & Central Market, this enchanting evening features a packed lineup of free activities, including free photos with Santa, story time with Mrs. Claus, face painting, live dance performances, holiday music, and appearances by Frosty and Rudolph, all culminating in the lighting of the Mayor’s Tree.

• Dates: Saturday, December 5th, 2026 (4:00 PM - 7:00 PM)
• Admission: Free
• Street Address: Klyde Warren Park, 2012 Woodall Rodgers Fwy, Dallas, TX 75201
• Kid Friendly: Yes
• Pet Friendly: No
• Parking: Nearby paid structures and limited street parking available
• Website: https://www.klydewarrenpark.org/tree-lighting-celebration

Insider Tip: Skip the traditional drive in parking hassle and take the historic, free M-Line Trolley directly to the park. It drops off right at the edge of the lawn, letting you avoid downtown gridlock entirely.

2. Merry Main Street — Frisco

Make wonderful holiday memories with your friends and family at this festive heartwarming gathering presented by Texas Health Hospital Frisco. Stroll through the beautiful plaza to experience the dazzling holiday lights, catch cheerful live musical performances, browse local vendor booths, and grab tasty treats from local food trucks as the city celebrates the season in style.

• Dates: Saturday, December 5th, 2026
• Admission: Free
• Street Address: Simpson Plaza, 6101 Frisco Square Blvd., Frisco, TX 75034 
• Kid Friendly: Yes
• Pet Friendly: Yes (Leashed pets are welcome in the outdoor plaza)
• Parking: Free plaza street parking and surrounding public parking structures
• Website: https://www.friscotexas.gov/916/Merry-Main-Street 

Insider Tip: Time your stroll to align with the famous Christmas in the Square light show running simultaneously. The surrounding buildings are beautifully choreographed with thousands of lights dancing to music, making it the ultimate backdrop for family holiday memories.

3. 6th Annual Merry & Bright Christmas Drone Show — Grapevine

Four hundred synchronized drones illuminate the night sky to create dynamic holiday imagery over Historic Main Street in the Christmas Capital of Texas. Main Street closes down completely to vehicular traffic for the evening, allowing families to stroll freely through the historic downtown area. Spectators can explore local boutiques, dine at neighborhood eateries, and visit winery tasting rooms before gathering outside for the aerial light performance. Presented by Harvest Hall and Hotel Vin, this free outdoor event offers a modern, high-tech twist on traditional seasonal celebrations.

• Dates: Monday, December 7th, 2026
• Admission: Free
• Street Address: 636 S Main St, Grapevine, TX 76051
• Kid-Friendly: Yes
• Pet-Friendly: Yes (Leashed dogs welcome outdoors)
• Parking: Free public parking lots available throughout downtown Grapevine
• Website: https://www.grapevinetexasusa.com/event/merry-%26-bright-christmas-drone-show/41935/

Insider Tip: Arrive early in the evening to secure a spot along Main Street and grab a warm bite to eat at Harvest Hall before the show begins at 7:00 PM.

4. Highland Park Carriage Rides with Whitehaven Events — Dallas

Photo Credit: Whitehaven Events

Highland Park carriage rides with Whitehaven Events offer a classic way to experience the Highland Park Christmas lights from a horse drawn carriage. Departing from The Shops of Highland Park, rides travel through the beautiful estates and tree lined streets of Highland Park, continuing a holiday tradition that Whitehaven Events has been part of for more than 20 years. It’s a memorable choice for families, couples, and friends looking to enjoy the neighborhood’s renowned Christmas displays.

• Dates: November 27th – December 27th, 2026
• Admission: Ticketed; advance purchase required
• Street Address: 4200 Oaklawn Ave, Dallas, TX 75219
• Kid-Friendly: Yes
• Pet-Friendly: Not specified
• Parking: Free parking
• Website: WhitehavenEvents.com

Insider Tip: Book your ride in advance, especially for weekend dates, as evening carriage rides are a popular way to see Highland Park’s Christmas lights.

5. Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden's Holiday at the Arboretum — Dallas

Holiday at the Arboretum returns to the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden for its final season of the beloved 12 Days of Christmas Gazebos. Guests can stroll through the Christmas Village, admire elaborate holiday décor inside the historic DeGolyer House, and see all 12 glass sided gazebos decorated around the gardens. Seasonal music and holiday photo opportunities add to the experience, which spans the Arboretum’s 66 acres and offers a memorable way to celebrate Christmas in Dallas.

• Dates: Wednesday, November 11th, 2026 through Sunday, January 3rd, 2027
• Admission: Ticketed; daytime and nighttime admission available
• Street Address: Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, 8525 Garland Road, Dallas, TX 75218
• Kid-Friendly: Yes
• Pet-Friendly: Not specified
• Parking: On-site parking, $15 per vehicle
• Website: https://www.dallasarboretum.org/events-activities/holiday-at-the-arboretum/

Insider Tip: Make plans to visit this year if you want to see the iconic 12 Days of Christmas Gazebos, as 2026 marks their final season after 12 years at the Dallas Arboretum.

6. Christmas in the Square — Frisco

Christmas in the Square transforms Frisco Square into one of the largest Christmas light shows in North Texas, with more than 180,000 lights choreographed to holiday music. The free display runs nightly throughout the season, while the surrounding holiday festivities give families even more reasons to visit. Guests can add ice skating at Skate the Square, take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the beautifully decorated area, shop and dine around Frisco Square, and enjoy other seasonal activities. 

• Dates: November 20th, 2026 – January 4th, 2027
• Admission: Free
• Street Address: Frisco Square, Frisco, TX 75034
• Kid-Friendly: Yes
• Pet-Friendly: Yes
• Parking: Free public parking available around Frisco Square
• Website: https://www.friscosquare.com/cits-overview

Insider Tip: Visit after dark and plan time to walk through Frisco Square rather than watching exclusively from the car. Skate the Square and other holiday activities are also nearby.

7. Grand Tree Lighting Celebration at Galleria Dallas — Dallas

Galleria Dallas kicks off the holiday season with its signature Dallas Christmas tree lighting, featuring an elaborate ice skating performance with Olympic skaters, Galleria's famous skating Santa, Missile Toes, and a fireworks finale. The celebration centers around the nation's tallest indoor Christmas tree, which remains a major holiday attraction throughout the season.

• Dates: 2026 date listed on the official holiday calendar
• Admission: Free
• Street Address: Galleria Dallas, 13350 Dallas Parkway, Dallas, TX 75240
• Kid-Friendly: Yes
• Pet-Friendly: No
• Parking: Free parking available at Galleria Dallas
• Website: https://galleriadallas.com/holiday-2026/

Insider Tip: Plan to stay after the Grand Tree Lighting to see the tree's recurring music-and-light presentations throughout the holiday season.

8. Reliant Lights Your Holidays — Dallas

Reliant Lights Your Holidays brings thousands of LED lights, a Christmas tree, holiday projections, real snow, Santa photos, live entertainment, and fireworks to Sammons Park in the Dallas Arts District. This free celebration is a strong choice for families searching for free Christmas lights in Dallas and holiday activities in one evening.

• Dates: Saturday, December 5th, 2026
• Admission: Free with RSVP
• Street Address: Sammons Park, 2403 Flora Street, Dallas, TX 75201
• Kid-Friendly: Yes
• Pet-Friendly: Not specified
• Parking: Paid parking available at nearby garages and city lots
• Website: https://attpac.org/event/reliant-lights-your-holidays-2026

Insider Tip: Arrive early enough to enjoy the Santa photos, crafts, holiday market, and real snow play area before the fireworks finale.

9. Holidays at Heritage: Parade & Tree Lighting — Irving

Irving's annual Holidays at Heritage celebration brings a Christmas parade, Santa, family activities, and the community tree lighting to the Heritage District. The evening is a good option for families looking for a Christmas tree lighting near Dallas with several activities taking place around the same downtown district.

• Dates: Saturday, December 5th, 2026
• Admission: Free
• Street Address: Heritage Park, 217 S. Main Street, Irving, TX 75060
• Kid-Friendly: Yes
• Pet-Friendly: Yes
• Parking: Public parking available around the Heritage District
• Website: https://irvingtx.gov/index.php?evt_type=5&section=events

Insider Tip: Arrive early for the parade and plan to stay for the evening's tree lighting and other holiday activities.

10. BTX-MAS: Christmas in Burleson — Burleson

BTX-MAS brings a lighted Christmas parade, a 34 foot Christmas tree covered with more than 20,000 lights, Santa, holiday entertainment, and a synchronized drone show to Old Town Burleson. The combination makes this one of the more substantial Christmas light events near Fort Worth for families to enjoy this holiday.

• Dates: Saturday, December 5th, 2026
• Admission: Free
• Street Address: Mayor Vera Calvin Plaza, 141 W. Renfro Street, Burleson, TX 76028
• Kid-Friendly: Yes
• Pet-Friendly: Yes
• Parking: Public parking available around Old Town Burleson
• Website: https://www.burlesontx.com/Calendar.aspx?EID=21457&calType=0&day=1&month=10&year=2026

Insider Tip: Stay through the 8:00 PM tree lighting for the holiday drone show, which follows the parade and entertainment on the plaza stage.

11. Holiday Lights Parade & Tree Lighting — Arlington

Arlington's annual Holiday Lights Parade fills downtown with illuminated floats, entertainment, Reindeer Games, Santa appearances, and the lighting of a 65 foot Christmas tree. This free community celebration offers several hours of activities before the parade and tree lighting, making it a strong Arlington Christmas lights event for families.

• Dates: Saturday, December 12th, 2026
• Admission: Free
• Street Address: George W. Hawkes Downtown Library, 100 S. Center Street, Arlington, TX 76010
• Kid-Friendly: Yes
• Pet-Friendly: Yes
• Parking: Public parking available throughout Downtown Arlington
• Website: https://www.arlingtontx.gov/Community-Calendar/Other-Community-Events/Holiday-Lights-Parade

Insider Tip: Arrive by mid-afternoon for Reindeer Games and Santa photos, then stay downtown for the 6:00 PM illuminated parade and tree lighting.

12. Santa on the Square — Carrollton

Historic Downtown Carrollton celebrates the holidays with Santa, live reindeer, toy soldiers, crafts, food vendors, entertainment, and an official Christmas tree lighting. The tree is illuminated at 6:00 PM, giving families a convenient Carrollton Christmas tree lighting surrounded by the city's shops and restaurants.

• Dates: Saturday, December 5th, 2026
• Admission: Free
• Street Address: Historic Downtown Carrollton, 1106 S. Broadway Street, Carrollton, TX 75006
• Kid-Friendly: Yes
• Pet-Friendly: Yes
• Parking: Public parking available around Historic Downtown Carrollton
• Website: https://www.cityofcarrollton.com/departments/departments-g-p/parks-recreation/programs-events/downtown-carrollton/santa-on-the-square

Insider Tip: The surrounding downtown streets close early for the celebration, so arrive before the closures if you want the easiest parking and access.

13. Lewisville Lights! & Holiday Stroll — Lewisville

Old Town Lewisville kicks off the holiday season with Lewisville Lights!, a Christmas tree lighting surrounded by Santa visits, food trucks, a winter carnival, hayrides, crafts, and a movie in the plaza. Saturday brings the Huffines Christmas Parade, making this a well rounded Lewisville Christmas lights and holiday event to enjoy at the start of the season.

• Dates: Friday, December 4th – Saturday, December 5th, 2026
• Admission: Free
• Street Address: Wayne Ferguson Plaza, 150 W. Church Street, Lewisville, TX 75057
• Kid-Friendly: Yes
• Pet-Friendly: Yes
• Parking: Public parking available around Old Town Lewisville
• Website: https://www.cityoflewisville.com/city-hall/city-departments/community-engagement/special-events-festivals/holiday-stroll

Insider Tip: Friday is the best night if the tree lighting is your priority, while Saturday is the better choice for families who want the Christmas parade and daytime activities.

14. Christmas Parade & Community Tree Lighting — Waxahachie

Downtown Waxahachie celebrates the holiday season with family activities, a lighted Christmas parade, and the community tree lighting on the lawn of the historic Ellis County Courthouse. The annual tradition is a good Christmas tree lighting near Dallas for families who want to make an evening trip south of the metroplex.

• Dates: Tuesday, December 1st, 2026
• Admission: Free
• Street Address: Downtown Waxahachie, Waxahachie, TX
• Kid-Friendly: Yes
• Pet-Friendly: Yes
• Parking: Public parking available throughout downtown
• Website: https://www.waxahachiecvb.com/events/2026/christmas-parade--community-tree-lighting2222

Insider Tip: Get downtown before the 6:00 PM activities begin so you can enjoy the pre-parade festivities and find a good viewing spot before the streets fill.

15. Main Street Magic: Christmas Tree Lighting & Parade — Grand Prairie

Main Street Magic turns Downtown Grand Prairie into a monthlong holiday celebration beginning with its annual Christmas tree lighting and parade. The opening celebration also features live carols, holiday vendors, free Santa photos, and a drone light show, creating a strong Grand Prairie Christmas lights experience for families looking to enjoy a night out at the start of December.

• Dates: Saturday, December 5th, 2026
• Admission: Free
• Street Address: Downtown Grand Prairie, 300 W. Main Street, Grand Prairie, TX 75050
• Kid-Friendly: Yes
• Pet-Friendly: Yes
• Parking: Public parking available downtown
• Website: https://www.gptx.org/About-Grand-Prairie/Main-Street-Magic

Insider Tip: Pair this event with a separate visit to Prairie Lights later in the season for two very different holiday light experiences in Grand Prairie.

16. GM Financial Parade of Lights — Fort Worth

The GM Financial Parade of Lights brings more than 100 illuminated entries to Downtown Fort Worth for one of North Texas' largest Christmas light parades. Floats, marching groups, and equestrian units light up the downtown streets before the holiday celebration concludes with Santa's appearance. This is another great Christmas light display in Fort Worth to take in this holiday season!

• Dates: Sunday, November 22nd, 2026
• Admission: Free; reserved seating is ticketed
• Street Address: Downtown Fort Worth, Fort Worth, TX
• Kid-Friendly: Yes
• Pet-Friendly: Yes
• Parking: Downtown garages and public parking lots available
• Website: https://fortworthparadeoflights.org/gm-financial-parade-of-lights-information/history/

Insider Tip: Plan to arrive well before the 6:00 PM start. The parade draws a large crowd, and popular viewing areas can fill well before the first illuminated entries arrive.

17. Grapevine's Carol of Lights — Grapevine

Photo Credit: Grapevine Convention & Visitors Bureau

Grapevine's Carol of Lights officially launches the city's Christmas Capital of Texas season on Historic Main Street. The annual celebration marks the beginning of more than 40 days of holiday programming, with decorated storefronts, illuminated streets, and additional Christmas attractions throughout the district. This is a must see Christmas experience in the Dallas region!

• Dates: Monday, November 23rd, 2026
• Admission: Free
• Street Address: Historic Main Street District, Grapevine, TX
• Kid-Friendly: Yes
• Pet-Friendly: Yes
• Parking: Public parking available throughout Historic Downtown Grapevine
• Website: https://www.grapevinetexasusa.com/christmas/

Insider Tip: Give yourself extra time to walk Historic Main Street before or after the celebration. The decorated storefronts and streets are part of the experience and make for excellent holiday photo stops.

18. Lights on the Farmstead — Plano

Heritage Farmstead Museum turns its historic four acre property into a dazzling Plano Christmas light display for the sixth annual Lights on the Farmstead. Guests can stroll along a quarter mile illuminated path featuring more than 1 million lights, 11 giant displays towering over 20 feet, a 30 foot Christmas tree, 10 animated light displays, and seven interactive holiday photo opportunities. Families can also visit Santa Claus, enjoy festive music, and stop for seasonal treats including s’mores, hot cocoa, donuts, and popcorn. With its walk through format and historic farm setting, Lights on the Farmstead offers a memorable Christmas lights experience in Plano, Texas for families, couples, and holiday traditions.

• Dates: November 20th – December 30th, 2026
• Admission: Ticketed
• Street Address: Heritage Farmstead Museum, 1900 West 15th Street, Plano, TX 75075
• Kid-Friendly: Yes
• Pet-Friendly: Not specified
• Parking: Free parking available
• Website: https://www.heritagefarmstead.org/event/lights-on-the-farmstead-2026/

Insider Tip: Dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes since the entire experience takes place outdoors along the quarter mile walking path. Plan extra time for Santa, interactive photo spots, and the seasonal treats.

Tips for Visiting Christmas Lights in Dallas-Fort Worth

• Go on a weeknight: Tuesday through Thursday evenings are far less crowded than weekend nights, especially for drive-through and ticketed light experiences.
• Time your visit at dusk: Most light displays are most magical in the first hour after sunset, when the lights pop against a deepening sky.
• Dress in layers: Even with mild weather, standing or walking outdoors at night gets cold quickly. Layer up for outdoor displays and walking trails.
• Book ticketed experiences in advance: Popular walk-through and drive-through experiences sell out on December weekends. Check the schedule and reserve early.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here's what to know before you go to any of the listed Dallas-Fort Worth light events this season.

When do Christmas lights turn on in Dallas-Fort Worth?

Most major Christmas light displays in Dallas-Fort Worth turn on between late November and the first week of December. Tree lighting ceremonies typically take place the weekend after Thanksgiving, and most neighborhood and trail displays run through New Year's Day.

Where can I see free Christmas lights in Dallas-Fort Worth?

Many of Dallas-Fort Worth's most iconic light displays are free to view, including tree lightings, neighborhood displays, and public park installations. Some ticketed experiences offer drive-through or walk-through light trails for a more immersive experience.

Are Dallas-Fort Worth Christmas lights kid friendly?

Yes! Most Christmas light displays in Dallas-Fort Worth are family-friendly, with activities, food, and entertainment suitable for all ages. Check individual listings for stroller accessibility and kid-specific activities.

When is the best time to see Christmas lights in Dallas-Fort Worth?

Weeknights are typically less crowded than weekends, especially Tuesday through Thursday. Most displays look best from dusk through 9 PM. Avoid the weekend right before Christmas if you want a calmer experience.

Can I add my event to this guide?

We'd love to feature your Christmas event! Simply share your event through our quick submission form and we will get it added to the list!

Christmas Lights Worth the Drive from Dallas-Fort Worth

Dallas-Fort Worth isn't the only place worth visiting for Christmas lights this season. Within a couple of hours' drive, you'll find several other cities with their own magical holiday displays worth the trip.

Marble Falls, Texas — 3 Hours 20 Minutes from Dallas-Fort Worth

Kick off the Christmas season in Marble Falls at the Downtown Christmas Tree Lighting in Harmony Park, where the community gathers at dusk to light the tree before settling in for a free outdoor screening of The Grinch on the lawn. And no holiday in the Hill Country is complete without the iconic Walkway of Lights at Lakeside Park, where more than two million lights reflect across Lake Marble Falls every evening throughout the season. Check back closer to the season for more details on this event!

Plan Your Complete Dallas-Fort Worth Christmas Experience

Dallas-Fort Worth's Christmas lights are just one part of the metroplex's incredible holiday season. Explore our guides to holiday shows and performances, Christmas festivals and parades, Christmas markets and holiday shopping, and Christmas attractions and experiences in Dallas-Fort Worth. Whether you're a local or visiting for the season, our Dallas-Fort Worth Christmas guide has you covered.