This week offers a variety of family-friendly activities to celebrate the holiday season. Whether you're crafting keepsakes, taking carriage rides or exploring gingerbread creations, these events provide the perfect way to create cherished memories with loved ones.
Pet Pictures with Santa
When: Until Dec. 10, 2024 | 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: Stonebriar Centre, JCPenney | Dick's Sporting Goods Court, 2601 Preston Rd., Frisco
More info
Capture a special holiday memory with your furry friend at Stonebriar Centre’s pet-friendly Santa photo event. Guests are encouraged to bring their pets in festive attire for a picture-perfect moment with Santa. Advance reservations are recommended.
The Trains at NorthPark
When: Dec. 10, 2024 - Jan. 5, 2025 | Times vary
Where: NorthPark Center, Level One between Macy's and Dillard's, 8687 N. Central Expressway, Dallas
More info
A beloved holiday tradition, The Trains at NorthPark showcases an intricate miniature train exhibit with over 600 trains traveling across 1,600 feet of track. This year’s display includes a new feature crafted entirely from LEGO bricks. Proceeds from the exhibit benefit the Ronald McDonald House of Dallas, supporting families in need during challenging times.
Kringle’s Corner
When: Dec. 11, 2024 | Times vary
Where: Community Room, 905 Garden Park Drive, Allen
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Get creative this holiday season at a special crafting event in the Community Room near Hindy House. Open to all, this come-and-go workshop invites participants to make unique holiday-themed crafts. With flexible hours from 10 a.m. to noon and 5 to 7 p.m., attendees can join in at their convenience. Parking is available behind Sephora.
Cookies with Santa
When: Dec. 11, 2024 | 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: 498 E Stacy Rd, Allen
More info
Celebrate the holiday season with cookies and a visit from Santa Claus at the Allen East Financial Center. This free, family-friendly event invites guests to enjoy festive treats and capture memories with Santa — perfect for a day of holiday cheer. Bring your loved ones and your camera for an unforgettable experience.
Gingertown Dallas
When: Dec. 11, 2024 - Jan. 1, 2025
Where: NorthPark Center, Level One in Nordstrom Court, 8687 N. Central Expressway, Dallas
More info
Experience the festive spirit at NorthPark Center with Gingertown Dallas, a premier gingerbread house exhibit supporting the Children’s Craniofacial Association. This annual display, organized by David M. Schwarz Architects and local design professionals, brings holiday cheer and promotes community involvement. Visitors can also participate in Camp Gingerbread on Dec. 14, where they can decorate cookies or purchase kits to enjoy at home, with proceeds aiding the Shared Housing Center's efforts to provide affordable housing and support services.
Selfies with Santa
When: Saturdays and Sundays, Dec. 12-22, 2024
Where: Legacy West, 7400 Windrose Ave., Plano
More info and times
Capture holiday memories with complimentary Selfies with Santa at Legacy West. Offering diverse Santa options for an inclusive experience, visitors can book a five-minute session and snap photos with Santa using their own camera or phone. Located at Sleigh All Day near Nike and Free People, this festive experience provides an unforgettable tradition for families. Sessions are limited, so be sure to schedule your spot in advance.
Cookies with Santa
When: Dec. 12, 2024 | 6:30 p.m.
Where: Profound Foods, 163 Fountain Court, Fairview
More info
Enjoy a festive experience with a cookie decorating kit, Santa visits at each table, story time and a special photo opportunity where children can sit on Santa’s lap for pictures. Each child will receive a gift bag and guests can indulge in cookies, cocoa, coffee or hot cider. The event lasts about two hours and all attendees must have a ticket; rescheduling is possible if space is available. This family-focused event is not suitable for large groups like daycares or playdates.
Skates & Stockings at Mockingbird Station
When: Dec. 12, 2024 | 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Where: Mockingbird Station, West Elm Parking Lot, 1st Level, 5307 E Mockingbird Ln, Dallas
More info
Join the holiday festivities at Mockingbird Station, an event filled with complimentary ice skating, festive decorations and unique shopping opportunities. Guests can enjoy a visit from Santa for free keepsake photos and explore participating storefronts for holiday gifts and raffle prizes. Add a touch of holiday cheer with free caricatures of family or pets, making this the perfect destination for seasonal fun and shopping.
SantaSanta’s Sleighin’
When: Dec. 14, 2024 | 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: The Boardwalk at Granite Park, 5800 TX-121, Plano
More info
Celebrate the season at The Boardwalk with a holiday market, festive music by DJ Kiks and Santa photos from 12-3 p.m. with balloon art by his elves. Kids can enjoy a hot chocolate bar and snowflake crafts and Frosty the Snowman will add to the fun. Don't miss the special Flamenco Passion dance performance at 2:15 p.m.
McKinney Rotary Christmas Parade of Lights
When: Dec. 14, 2024 | 6:30 p.m.
Where: Historic Downtown McKinney, 111 N Tennessee St, McKinney
More info
The McKinney Rotary Club’s Christmas Parade of Lights celebrates its 25th year with a festive procession themed around "Christmas Songs." This annual event, supported by donations, raises funds for the club’s wide-reaching projects that promote peace, health, literacy and community development. Attendees can enjoy an illuminated parade filled with holiday cheer, contributing to both local and global causes through the club’s charitable initiatives.
Carriage Rides
When: Until Dec. 22, 2024 | Times vary
Where: Addison Circle, 4970 Addison Circle, Addison
More info
Experience the holiday magic in Addison Circle, beautifully lit for the season. Residents can enjoy a 10% discount on holiday carriage rides with proof of residence. Tickets for private group rides can be booked in advance, while walk-up rides are available on-site for $25 per person. Walk-up passengers may share the ride with others. Rides are weather-permitted and refunds are offered for cancellations due to adverse conditions, but all other ticket sales are non-refundable.
Photos with Santa in Santa’s Village
When: Until Dec. 24, 2024 | Various times
Where: The Shops at Willow Bend, 6121 W. Park Blvd., Plano
More info
Santa's Village at Neiman Marcus Court invites families to capture special moments with Santa until Dec. 24. Visit during designated hours for festive photo opportunities, with reservations recommended to ensure a spot and receive bonus gifts like holiday cards and a personalized message from Santa. Special events include sensory-friendly sessions, pet photo days and unique themed experiences.
Santa At The Star
When: Until Dec. 24, 2024 | Times vary
Where: 3620 The Star Blvd, STE 1205, Frisco
More info
Santa Claus is welcoming visitors to his Cowboys-themed cottage at The Star in Frisco this holiday season. Guests can capture festive memories with Santa, with photo packages starting at $39, which includes a printed 5x7 photo. Located in the heart of The Star District, Santa’s cottage offers free parking in the nearby Silver Parking Garage. Bookings can be made online for this family-friendly holiday experience.
Pictures with Santa
When: Until Dec. 24, 2024 | Various times
Where: Stonebriar Centre, JCPenney | Dick's Sporting Goods Court, 2601 Preston Rd., Frisco
More info
Bring the family to Stonebriar Centre for professional photos with Santa. This classic holiday tradition includes a beautifully decorated setting and cheerful elves ready to assist. Be sure to make reservations to ensure your spot.
Stations Of The Nativity
When: Until Dec. 31, 2024
Where: St. Andrew Methodist Church, 5801 W Plano Pkwy, Plano
More info
Journey through the Stations of the Nativity with an audio-guided experience recounting the story of Jesus’ birth. Set amidst the serene grounds of the St. Andrew Campus, the tour begins at the Hasley Chapel Patio, offering a reflective way to embrace the meaning of the season. Perfect for visitors seeking a peaceful, faith-centered holiday activity.
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