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Best Christmas Shows in Dallas-Fort Worth 2026: Holiday Performances Guide

If you're looking for things to do in Dallas-Fort Worth at Christmas, these are the best Christmas shows and holiday performances in DFW for 2026 to see this season!

Best Christmas Shows in Dallas-Fort Worth 2026: Holiday Performances Guide

Dallas-Fort Worth's Christmas performing arts season is one of the year's true highlights, with world-class theater, ballet, symphony, and choral performances filling stages across the metroplex every December. From The Nutcracker to gospel celebrations and holiday concerts to special showings of Christmas classics, here's your guide to the best Christmas shows in Dallas-Fort Worth for 2026.

The Best Christmas Shows in Dallas-Fort Worth This Season

Some of the very best Christmas events in Dallas-Fort Worth happen at the theater! If you want to truly feel the spirit of Christmas, take a moment to soak in the sounds of the season at these spectacular holiday shows in Dallas-Fort Worth!

1. Texas Ballet Theater's The Nutcracker — Dallas & Fort Worth

When the clock strikes wonder, experience Ben Stevenson's spectacular, classic production of The Nutcracker presented by the Texas Ballet Theater. This timeless holiday fairy tale follows young Clara through a dream-like journey from her family’s festive home to the shimmering Kingdom of Sweets. Set to Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s legendary score, this production captures the complete warmth of the season through iconic choreography, spectacular sets, and pure theatrical magic.

  • Dates: November 27th - December 6th, 2026 & December 11th - December 27th, 2026
  • Admission: Ticketed 
  • Street Address: Winspear Opera House, 2403 Flora St, Dallas, TX 75201 | Bass Performance Hall, 525 Commerce St, Fort Worth, TX 76102
  • Kid Friendly: Yes
  • Pet Friendly: No
  • Parking: Paid venue and district parking garages available at both metropolitan performance halls
  • Website: https://texasballettheater.org/performance/the-nutcracker-2026/ 

Insider Tip: If you are booking tickets for the Bass Performance Hall run, aim for seats in the lower orchestra or the center mezzanine. These sections afford you the absolute best sight lines to see the giant angels on the ceiling mural perfectly align with the live action on the stage during the transformation scene.

2. World Ballet Company's The Nutcracker — Dallas

The historic downtown theater serves as a majestic backdrop for a strictly limited engagement of this globally acclaimed international tour. Featuring an elite multicultural cast of professional dancers representing over ten countries, the performance showcases breathtaking classic scenery, a live orchestra, and vivid, hand-sewn tutus. Audiences are treated to soaring athletic leaps, crisp synchronization, and pristine technique inside a legendary performance hall. It is a highly polished, visually arresting presentation that brings a fresh global perspective to a beloved seasonal classic.

  • Dates: Wednesday, December 9th, 2026, starting at 7:00 PM
  • Admission: Ticketed 
  • Street Address: Majestic Theatre, 1925 Elm Street, Dallas, TX 75201
  • Kid Friendly: Yes (Strictly limited to individuals ages 2 and older)
  • Pet Friendly: No
  • Parking: Paid public downtown garages and nearby street parking
  • Website: https://worldballetcompany.com/performances/the-nutcracker/ 

Insider Tip: Arrive at least 45 minutes prior to showtime to take full advantage of the unique, up-close photo opportunities with authentic production costumes displayed inside the theater lobby.

3. Dallas Children's Theater's Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer — Dallas

This holiday classic soars off the screen in this musical adaptation of the beloved television special. Filled with holiday hits like "Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer" and "A Holly Jolly Christmas," this production features all of your favorite characters including Santa and Mrs. Claus, Hermey the Elf, Bumble the Abominable Snow Monster, Clarice, Yukon Cornelius, and Rudolph. When a storm threatens to keep Santa's sleigh from taking flight, what makes Rudolph different turns out to be what helps him save Christmas!

  • Dates: November 21st, 2026 - Dec 20th, 2026
  • Admission: Ticketed
  • Street Address: Baker Theater, 5938 Skillman St., Dallas, TX 75231 
  • Kid Friendly: Yes (Recommended for ages 4 and up)
  • Pet Friendly: No
  • Parking: Free on-site parking available
  • Website: https://www.dct.org/show-details/rudolph-the-red-nosed-reindeer 

Insider Tip: Because this show is heavily geared toward younger families, the weekend afternoon matinees sell out months in advance. Secure seats in the mid-center orchestra for the absolute best view of the flying puppet sequences without being overwhelmed by the theater’s sound design.

4. Angelika Film Center's Showing of White Christmas — Dallas

Musical Mondays wraps up 2026 with the holiday classic White Christmas. This big screen tradition for the first Monday of December is a perfect cinematic escape to celebrate the holiday season. Gather your friends and family to experience Irving Berlin's legendary music and festive romance inside a beautiful and comfortable modern theater setting. 

Insider Tip: Arrive 45 minutes before the 7:30 PM showtime. The Angelika Cafe inside the lobby serves excellent craft espresso drinks, local wines, and gourmet small bites that you can carry directly into the theater auditorium with you.

5. Dallas Symphony Orchestra's Holidays with the DSO — Dallas

Photo Credit: Dallas Symphony Orchestra

Music is at the heart of the holiday season, and Holidays with the DSO has it all: enchanting decorations, the chance to visit and snap a photo with Saint Nick, and the full, mesmerising sound of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra. Dallas-native vocalist Josefina Maldonado joins guest conductor Lawrence Loh to bring all your seasonal favorites to life alongside the Dallas Symphony Chorus. Plus, they are making it a white Christmas with real indoor snowfall at the end of each performance!

  • Dates: December 11th - 13th, 2026
  • Admission: Ticketed (Early access for subscribers; general tickets on sale July 7)
  • Street Address: Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, 2301 Flora St, Dallas, TX 75201 
  • Kid Friendly: Yes
  • Pet Friendly: No
  • Parking: Paid venue and Arts District parking garages available
  • Website: https://www.dallassymphony.org/productions/holidays-with-the-dso-subs-2026/ 

Insider Tip: The DSO pulls out all the stops for their grand finale indoor snowfall. To fully experience the magic of the snow blanketing the crowd, book seats in the lower Orchestra level, and remember that drinks purchased on-site are welcomed inside the concert hall.

6. Vienna Light Orchestra — Fort Worth

For an elegant, transportive evening, this concert scales back commercial noise and leans entirely into old-world theatrical romance. Born from the spirit of Vienna, the performance features world-class instrumentalists and sweeping vocal arrangements surrounded by a lush forest of Christmas trees. The entire venue is illuminated exclusively by the warm, ambient glow of over 2,000 flickering candlelights, recreating the spirit of a classic European winter evening.

  • Dates: Saturday, November 28, 2026 
  • Admission: Ticketed (10% off for group orders of 10 or more)
  • Street Address: Will Rogers Auditorium, 3401 W Lancaster Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76107
  • Kid Friendly: Yes
  • Pet Friendly: No
  • Parking: Paid venue lot parking available on-site
  • Website: https://www.viennalightorchestra.com 

Insider Tip: Because the performance relies completely on the moody glow of thousands of candles, sitting in the absolute front rows can break the theatrical illusion. Book seats in the lower mezzanine or the middle rows of the orchestra for the best elevated, panoramic view of the candlelight forest.

7. How the Grinch Stole Christmas Movie Night — Lufkin

The historic Pines Theater screens the live action adaptation of Dr. Seuss's classic holiday tale on the big screen for a cozy community movie night. Viewers follow Jim Carrey's performance as the reclusive green grump who schemes to strip Whoville of its festive joy, only to face an unexpected change of heart. This single night cinematic presentation offers families a relaxed indoor activity inside a beautifully restored downtown venue. Concessions and seating create an inviting environment for moviegoers of all ages to kick off the weekend.

  • Dates: Friday, December 11th, 2026 
  • Admission: Ticketed
  • Street Address: 113 S 1st Street, Lufkin, TX 75901
  • Kid-Friendly: Yes
  • Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
  • Parking: Free street parking along 1st Street and nearby public lots behind Downtown Lufkin storefronts
  • Website: https://www.angelinaarts.org/ticket---events

Insider Tip: Plan to arrive 30 minutes before showtime to grab classic theater concessions and secure middle row seats in the auditorium before the main feature begins.

8. The Pineywoods Jamboree — Lufkin

A long standing regional tradition, The Pineywoods Jamboree presents its annual live country, gospel, and holiday variety production at The Pines Theater. Hosted by producers Jimmy and Leigh Ann Hughes, this show brings together the resident jamboree band and guest vocalists to deliver timeless seasonal tunes and traditional Texas country music. This heart filled performance captures the charm of classic Branson style revues right in East Texas. It serves as an entertaining gathering for generations of local music fans and visiting families alike.

  • Dates: Saturday, December 12th, 2026 
  • Admission: Ticketed
  • Street Address: 113 S 1st Street, Lufkin, TX 75901
  • Kid-Friendly: Yes
  • Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
  • Parking: Free public parking lots located off Shepherd Avenue and street parking along 1st Street
  • Website: https://www.angelinaarts.org/ticket---events

Insider Tip: Grab dinner at one of the family owned eateries within walking distance on Shepherd Avenue before doors open at 6:15 PM.

9. A Christmas Story The Musical — Lufkin

The Broadway national tour adaptation of the classic holiday movie comes to life on stage at the Temple Theater on the Angelina College campus. This musical comedy follows young Ralphie Parker’s single minded quest for an official Red Ryder BB gun despite endless warnings from parents and teachers alike. Featuring lively choreography and original musical numbers, this performance captures the nostalgic humor of a 1940s Midwestern winter. It offers a theatrical experience that brings multi generational families together for an evening of shared laughs.

  • Dates: Monday, December 14th, 2026  
  • Admission: Ticketed
  • Street Address: 3500 S 1st Street, Lufkin, TX 75901
  • Kid-Friendly: Yes
  • Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
  • Parking: Free open campus lot parking surrounding the Temple Theater complex
  • Website: https://www.angelinaarts.org/ticket---events

Insider Tip: Campus parking lots fill steadily near the venue; aim to pull into the Angelina College main entrance off South 1st Street by 6:45 PM for straightforward parking near the front entrance.

10. The Doo Wop Project Christmas — Lufkin

Featuring stars from Broadway hits like Jersey Boys and Motown: The Musical, The Doo Wop Project delivers an evening of retro harmonies and upbeat holiday arrangements. Performing at The Pines Theater, this vocal group reconstructs seasonal classics and classic pop soul hits using mid-century vocal styling and contemporary flair. Attendees can expect crisp choreography, soaring vocal leads, and nostalgic renditions of holiday favorites. This show provides an ideal soundtrack for an elegant winter evening out in downtown Lufkin.

  • Dates: Thursday, December 17th, 2026 
  • Admission: Ticketed
  • Street Address: 113 S 1st Street, Lufkin, TX 75901
  • Kid-Friendly: Yes 
  • Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
  • Parking: Free downtown street parking and public city lots adjacent to Shepherd Avenue
  • Website: https://www.angelinaarts.org/ticket---events

Insider Tip: Wear your favorite ugly holiday sweater for festive photo ops inside the theater lobby before taking your seat for the performance.

11. Pentatonix Christmas in the City Tour — Fort Worth

The Multi-platinum vocal group Pentatonix brings their Christmas in the City Tour to Fort Worth for a single night of holiday vocal performances. Taking the stage at Dickies Arena, the ensemble reconstructs seasonal carols and modern holiday pop hits without traditional instrument backing. The show combines intricate vocal arrangements, dynamic beatboxing, and full scale arena light production. It provides a festive, family friendly concert experience in the heart of the Cultural District.

  • Dates: Wednesday, December 16th, 2026
  • Admission: Ticketed
  • Street Address: Dickies Arena, 1911 Montgomery Street, Fort Worth, TX 76107
  • Kid-Friendly: Yes
  • Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
  • Parking: Multi-level parking garages are located adjacent to the arena on Trail Drive and Chevrolet Way
  • Website: https://go.seated.com/tour-events/05629198-b4ac-4d17-acc9-e7f3787d14dd

Insider Tip: Pre-purchase parking for the Chevrolet Garage online to secure a spot right next to the North West entrance for quick entry and exit.

12. Holiday Tea at the Bush Center — Dallas

Café 43 at the George W. Bush Presidential Center hosts its annual Holiday Tea service in University Park. Guests enjoy a curated three tier menu featuring savory tea sandwiches, warm handmade scones, and seasonal desserts paired with hot spiced tea. The dining experience includes full access to the Bush Museum, allowing visitors to tour the presidential exhibits and permanent installations at their leisure. Wine and champagne are also available for tableside purchase throughout the afternoon.

Insider Tip: Book the 2:15 PM seating so you can tour the museum galleries uninterrupted beforehand when morning visitor traffic thins out.

13. A Frank Sinatra Christmas Tribute — Grapevine

Photo Credit: Grapevine Convention & Visitors Bureau

Singer Dave Halston takes the stage at the Historic Palace Theatre to perform classic holiday arrangements alongside a live band. This seasonal performance blends famous holiday carols with iconic big band hits made famous by Frank Sinatra. Guests can enjoy a classic concert setting featuring vocal solos and lighthearted humor inside the restored downtown venue. The matinee show offers a nostalgic afternoon outing for music lovers visiting the historic district.

Insider Tip: Arrive 45 minutes early to grab concessions and explore the restored 1940s theater lobby before doors open for seating.

14. A Magical Cirque Christmas — Arlington

Texas Hall at UT Arlington hosts this touring holiday cirque production, bringing high flying excitement straight to the heart of the Metroplex. World class dancers, acrobats, and illusionists team up to deliver an action packed showcase of incredible balance, strength, and agility. Energetic holiday tunes set the pace for live routines that mix thrilling aerial hoops with lighthearted comedy and excitement. Its convenient Arlington setting makes it an easy, central meeting spot for families coming from both Dallas and Fort Worth. Overall, the performance offers a fun outing experience that every generation in the family can enjoy together.

  • Dates: Sunday, December 6th, 2026
  • Admission: Ticketed
  • Street Address: Texas Hall, 701 S Nedderman Dr, Arlington, TX 76019
  • Kid-Friendly: Yes
  • Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
  • Parking: Campus visitor parking garages and surface lots available adjacent to Texas Hall
  • Website: https://utatickets.com/ticketinfocirque.php

Insider Tip: Park in the West Campus Garage off Mitchell Street for the shortest walking distance directly to the main hall doors.

15. Mannheim Steamroller Christmas — Grand Prairie

Mannheim Steamroller brings its Christmas tour to Texas Trust CU Theatre at Grand Prairie, putting the longtime holiday concert tradition right between Dallas and Fort Worth. The production features live musicians performing on more than 20 instruments, combining percussion, keyboards, orchestral sounds, and electronic elements with Mannheim Steamroller's signature multimedia presentation.

Insider Tip: The theater's location between Dallas and Fort Worth makes this an easy addition to a DFW holiday itinerary.

16. Mannheim Steamroller Christmas — Tyler

East Texas gets a December visit from Mannheim Steamroller at UT Tyler's Cowan Center, giving Dallas Fort Worth families another regional option for the annual Christmas tour. The show focuses on live instrumental performance, with familiar Christmas songs presented through percussion, orchestral instrumentation, electronic sounds, and Mannheim Steamroller's signature multimedia production.

Insider Tip: Plan this as a full day Christmas outing from DFW, with the afternoon performance leaving time to explore Tyler afterward.

17. Dallas Symphony Orchestra's Brassy Holidays — Dallas

Photo Credit: Dallas Symphony Orchestra

The Dallas Symphony Orchestra brass, percussion, and organ section take over the Meyerson stage for a one-night-only holiday program. Lawrence Loh conducts the DSO Brass & Percussion alongside resident organist Bradley Hunter Welch, who performs on the hall's Lay Family Concert Organ. Expect a bold, brassy take on holiday classics built for tubas, trombones, snares, and cymbals rather than the orchestra's usual string forward holiday programming.

  • Dates: Tuesday, December 15, 2026
  • Admission: Tickets starting at $39
  • Street Address: Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, 2301 Flora St., Dallas, TX 75201
  • Kid-Friendly: Yes
  • Pet-Friendly: No (Service animals only)
  • Parking: Meyerson opens two hours before the concert; arrive at least 30 minutes early to park and find seating
  • Website: https://www.dallassymphony.org/productions/brassy-holidays-2026/

Insider Tip: This is a one-night-only performance, so it won't repeat later in the season the way some DSO holiday programs do, making it worth flagging as a "don't miss the date" item.

18. Dallas Symphony Orchestra's Disney's The Muppet Christmas Carol in Concert Live to Film — Dallas

Photo Credit: Dallas Symphony Orchestra

The Dallas Symphony Orchestra performs Miles Goodman's original score live while the full Muppet Christmas Carol film plays on screen above the stage. Lawrence Loh conducts as Kermit, Miss Piggy, and Gonzo retell the Dickens classic, giving families a full length film experience paired with live orchestral accompaniment.

Insider Tip: Three showtimes run across the weekend and the Sunday matinee is the easiest slot for families with younger kids.

19. Trans-Siberian Orchestra: The Ghosts of Christmas Eve — Dallas

Photo Credit: Trans-Siberian Orchestra | Jason McEachern

American Airlines Center hosts TSO's full 30th anniversary production, with two performances the same day of The Ghosts of Christmas Eve followed by a set of the band's classic instrumentals. Expect a genre all its own, hard rock riffs layered over a live orchestra, narrated storytelling, and a stage built for lasers and pyrotechnics on a scale most holiday shows don't attempt.

  • Dates: Sunday, December 13, 2026
  • Admission: Ticketed
  • Street Address: American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Ave, Dallas, TX 75219
  • Kid Friendly: Yes (loud, with pyrotechnics and strobe lighting)
  • Pet Friendly: No
  • Parking: Not specified
  • Website: https://www.trans-siberian.com/pages/tour

Insider Tip: With two performances on the same day, you can choose the show that works best around your holiday plans rather than giving up an entire day.

20. Home for the Holidays — Fort Worth

For a classic Fort Worth Christmas concert, the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra brings Home for the Holidays to Bass Performance Hall with familiar carols, seasonal favorites and a chance to see Santa. It’s designed as a traditional holiday concert that works well for families and longtime Christmas music fans.

Insider Tip: This is one of the earliest major Christmas concerts in the Metroplex, so it’s a good option if you want to start your holiday season before December arrives.

21. Holidays with the UNT One O’Clock Lab Band — Fort Worth

Jazz up your holidays with the University of North Texas One O’Clock Lab Band, one of the country’s best known collegiate jazz ensembles. This annual holiday performance puts a big band spin on Christmas favorites, making this a great choice for anyone looking for holiday concerts in Fort Worth beyond a traditional orchestral program.

  • Dates: Friday, December 4th, 2026
  • Admission: Ticketed
  • Street Address: McDavid Studio, 301 W 5th St, Fort Worth, TX 76102
  • Kid Friendly: Yes
  • Pet Friendly: No
  • Website: https://www.basshall.com/untholiday

Insider Tip: The McDavid Studio is much smaller and more intimate than Bass Performance Hall, so this is a particularly nice pick if you prefer a close up concert setting.

22. Sister’s Christmas Catechism — Fort Worth

Christmas comedy meets a holiday mystery in Sister’s Christmas Catechism, a lively theatrical production that asks one very important question: whatever happened to the Magi’s gold? Sister uses audience members, a local choir and her own questionable scientific methods to investigate the case. It’s a fun alternative for anyone searching for Christmas theater in Fort Worth that goes beyond the traditional holiday story.

Insider Tip: If you want a Christmas performance that is more comedy than concert, this is an easy alternative to the traditional holiday shows.

23. Family Holidays with the DSO — Dallas

Photo Credit: Dallas Symphony Orchestra

Families looking for Christmas concerts for kids in Dallas can head to the Meyerson for this one hour holiday program from the Dallas Symphony Orchestra. The concert features classic seasonal music, a sing-along, Santa and a snowfall finale inside the concert hall. 

  • Dates: Saturday, December 12th, 2026
  • Admission: Ticketed
  • Street Address: Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, 2301 Flora St, Dallas, TX 75201
  • Kid Friendly: Yes
  • Pet Friendly: No
  • Parking: Meyerson opens two hours before the concert; arrive at least 30 minutes early to park and find seating
  • Website: https://www.dallassymphony.org/productions/family-holidays-2026/

Insider Tip: The one hour format makes this a much easier concert choice for younger children who may not be ready for a full length evening performance.

24. for KING + COUNTRY: A Drummer Boy Christmas — Fort Worth

The four-time GRAMMY-winning duo for KING + COUNTRY brings its A Drummer Boy Christmas tour to Fort Worth for a large scale holiday concert featuring music, storytelling, and a theatrical presentation. Joel and Luke Smallbone return with a production built around their Christmas album and film DRUMMER BOY. For fans searching for Christian Christmas concerts in Fort Worth, this is one of the Metroplex’s bigger contemporary options.

Insider Tip: This is a strong pick for families who want a contemporary Christmas concert with a big arena production rather than a traditional symphony performance.

25. Christmas with Orpheus — Fort Worth & Dallas

Christmas concerts in the Dallas Fort Worth area get a choral focus with Orpheus Chamber Singers’ annual holiday program. This year’s feature is Conrad Susa’s Carols and Lullabies: Christmas in the Southwest, with harpist Jaymee Haefner and marimbist Waichi Champion joining the ensemble. It’s a distinctive option for those looking for Dallas-Fort Worth holiday choir performances.

  • Dates: Friday, December 18th - Sunday, December 20th, 2026
  • Admission: Ticketed
  • Street Address: Broadway Baptist Church, 3051 White Settlement Rd, Fort Worth, TX 76114 | St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, 6306 Kenwood Ave, Dallas, TX 75214 | Church of the Transfiguration, 14115 Hillcrest Rd, Dallas, TX 75248
  • Kid Friendly: Yes
  • Pet Friendly: No
  • Parking: Not Specified
  • Website: https://www.orpheuschambersingers.org/2026-2027-season

Insider Tip: Choose the Fort Worth or Dallas performance based on your location, since the same program is presented at three different churches across the Metroplex.

26. Cirque Musica: Holiday Wonderland — Dallas

Holiday entertainment takes an acrobatic turn with Cirque Musica: Holiday Wonderland, combining live holiday music with aerial performers, acrobatics, and other circus acts. The new production follows a group of heroes through a winter wonderland and is designed as a family friendly holiday spectacle. It’s a standout for families searching for Christmas shows in Dallas for the whole family.

Insider Tip: If your family has already seen the traditional Christmas concerts and The Nutcracker, this is a fun way to add some aerial stunts and circus spectacle to the holiday lineup.

27. Christmas with the Petersens — Arlington

The Petersens bring their family harmonies and bluegrass inspired arrangements to Arlington Music Hall for a Christmas concert built around beloved carols and holiday favorites. Their warm sibling humor and rootsy musical style make this a particularly approachable option for families looking for family Christmas entertainment near Dallas-Fort Worth.

Insider Tip: The Arlington Music Hall is a smaller venue than the Metroplex arenas, making this a good choice if you prefer a more intimate family concert.

28. Michael Martin Murphey – Cowboy Christmas — Arlington

Michael Martin Murphey brings his Cowboy Christmas concert to Arlington Music Hall for a holiday performance with a distinctly Western Texas feel. Expect Christmas music filtered through Murphey’s country and Western style in a more intimate concert setting, making it a good pick for fans of country Christmas music in Arlington.

Insider Tip: This is a good one to choose if you want Christmas music with a country and Western flavor instead of the usual pop or orchestral holiday program.

29. A Christmas Festival — Arlington

Symphony Arlington celebrates the season with its annual Christmas Pops program, featuring Lauren Randolph, mezzo-soprano, alongside a program of classical and seasonal works. The concert includes A Christmas Festival, Noël from Symphonic Dances, selections from Amahl and the Night Visitors, Die Natali, Jingle Bells Forever and A Charleston Christmas, followed by the orchestra’s annual Christmas Pops Sing Along. It’s a solid choice for Arlington Christmas concerts with a traditional symphonic sound.

  • Dates: Thursday, December 17th, 2026
  • Admission: Ticketed
  • Street Address: Arlington Music Hall, 224 N. Center St, Arlington, TX 76011
  • Kid Friendly: Yes
  • Pet Friendly: No
  • Parking: Not Specified
  • Website: https://symphonyarlington.org/

Insider Tip: Stay for the Christmas Pops Sing-Along at the end if you want to turn a traditional symphony concert into a more participatory holiday experience.

30. A Christmas Carol: A New Musical Comedy — Fort Worth

Casa Mañana gives the Dickens classic a fresh musical comedy treatment with a contemporary pop score. This version follows Ebenezer Scrooge through the familiar Christmas story while adding plenty of humor, music, and audience friendly theatrical energy. Families searching for A Christmas Carol performances near Dallas-Fort Worth can add this theatrical take to their holiday plans.

  • Dates: November 27th - December 23rd, 2026
  • Admission: Ticketed
  • Street Address: 3101 W. Lancaster Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76107
  • Kid Friendly: Yes
  • Pet Friendly: No
  • Parking: Not Specified
  • Website: https://casamanana.org/events/a-christmas-carol/

Insider Tip: Casa Mañana also offers a sensory friendly performance, making this a particularly useful option for families looking for a more relaxed theater environment.

31. Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical — Dallas

For families looking for a big Broadway style Christmas performance in Dallas, Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical brings the classic Whoville story to the stage at Music Hall at Fair Park. The production features familiar songs including “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch” and “Welcome Christmas,” along with elaborate sets and costumes inspired by Dr. Seuss’ original illustrations.

Insider Tip: With multiple performances across Thanksgiving weekend, this is an easy one to work into a family holiday trip to Dallas.

32. Home for the Holidays — Plano

The Plano Symphony Orchestra brings its annual Plano Christmas concert back for 2026 with a program of beloved holiday classics for orchestra and choir. The Plano West Senior High School Choir joins the orchestra, while the program also includes an audience sing along, special guests from the North Pole and other seasonal surprises.

Insider Tip: There are two performances on December 20th, so check both options when planning around other holiday activities.

33. Illuminate: Holiday Movie Classics — Frisco

Film music takes center stage at this candlelight Christmas concert in Frisco, where familiar holiday movie scores are performed surrounded by hundreds of flickering candles. The intimate setting at the historic Lebanon Chapel gives the concert a much smaller, more atmospheric feel than a traditional symphony hall.

Insider Tip: This is a particularly good option for a date night or a smaller holiday outing if you want something more intimate than a large scale Christmas concert.

34. All Star Christmas — McKinney

The McKinney Philharmonic Orchestra’s All Star Christmas concert in McKinney brings Tatiana LadyMay Mayfield and special guest artists together with the orchestra for an evening of holiday music. The program mixes beloved Christmas classics and seasonal favorites with soulful vocals and orchestral arrangements, giving the annual concert a more contemporary feel.

Insider Tip: Children ages 10 and under have a discounted ticket price, making this a nice option for families looking for a more affordable orchestral Christmas outing.

Tips for Watching Christmas Shows in Dallas-Fort Worth

  • Book early: Popular Christmas shows in Dallas-Fort Worth sell out weeks or months in advance. The closer to Christmas, the harder seats get.
  • Consider weekday matinees: Weekday afternoon performances often have better seat availability and lower prices than weekend evening shows.
  • Check for family discounts: Many venues offer family packages, student rush tickets, or matinee pricing that can significantly reduce the cost of attending with kids.
  • Arrive early for the venue experience: Many of Dallas-Fort Worth's historic theaters are beautifully decorated for the holidays. Build in extra time before curtain to enjoy the lobby and architecture.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

When do Christmas shows start in Dallas-Fort Worth?

Most Christmas shows in Dallas-Fort Worth begin running in late November or early December and continue through Christmas Eve or early January. The most popular productions, including The Nutcracker, typically open the weekend after Thanksgiving.

How much do Christmas shows cost in Dallas-Fort Worth?

Ticket prices vary widely. Family-friendly productions and community choir concerts can start under $20, while marquee ballet and symphony performances at major venues can run $75 to $300 or more. Check individual listings for pricing.

Are Christmas shows in Dallas-Fort Worth kid friendly?

Most holiday productions are family-friendly, especially The Nutcracker, holiday pops concerts, and family stage shows. Weekend matinees are often the most family-oriented. Check individual listings for age recommendations.

Do I need to book Christmas show tickets in advance?

Yes! The most popular Christmas shows in Dallas-Fort Worth sell out weeks or months in advance, particularly for the final weekends before Christmas. Book as early as you can for the best seat selection and pricing.

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 Shows Worth the Drive from Dallas-Fort Worth

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

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

For holiday theater in the Hill Country, look no further than Irving Berlin's White Christmas at the Hill Country Community Theatre, running throughout the month of December. This beloved classic follows two veterans-turned-performers who follow a pair of singing sisters to a Vermont lodge, and into the Christmas spirit, with classic songs including "Blue Skies" and the timeless title song woven throughout.

Plan Your Complete Dallas-Fort Worth Christmas Experience

Dallas-Fort Worth's Christmas shows are just one part of the metroplex's incredible holiday season. Explore our guides to Dallas-Fort Worth Christmas lights, 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!

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