Top 10 Ways To Celebrate The Holidays This Week in Plano, Frisco, McKinney, Dallas And Beyond [Dec. 16-19, 2024]

Celebrate the season with a variety of festive events happening this week. Whether you're looking to embrace the Christmas spirit with a carriage ride, a heartwarming musical or even thrilling college football action, there's plenty to keep you entertained. 

Don't miss out on these exciting opportunities to have fun and connect with your community!

Here’s a curated roundup of the events happening from Dec. 16-19:

Let It Snow! At TrainTopia

When: Dec. 16, 2024 - Jan. 31, 2025
Where: Museum of the American Railroad, 8004 N. Dallas Pkwy, Frisco
More info 

Experience the magic of TrainTopia's iconic G-scale model train layout, now transformed with a festive holiday twist and indoor snowfall. Perfect for all ages, this immersive exhibit offers a memorable way to celebrate the season at the Museum of the American Railroad.

Holiday Special: Orbital at Cosm 

When: Dec. 16, 2024 - Jan. 3, 2025 | Times vary
Where: Cosm Dallas, 5776 Grandscape Blvd, The Colony
More info and tickets

Embark on a family-friendly, winter-themed adventure with a 30-minute immersive journey in "Orbital," exploring Earth’s history and the vastness of space. After the show, enjoy festive activities surrounded by sparkling ice and snow, perfect for all ages.

NTPA Scrooge The Musical 

When: Until Dec. 22, 2024 | Multiple show times
Where: 1509 H Ave, Plano
More info 

The 14th annual production of Scrooge – The Musical returns bigger than ever, featuring its largest cast to date with over 100 adult and youth performers. This beloved holiday tradition has captivated nearly 20,000 audience members across North Texas. Directed for the seventh time by NTPA Vice President and ten-time Scrooge veteran Mike Mazur, this production promises to deliver a memorable experience. Local Profile is a media sponsor for this event. 

2024 Scooter's Coffee Frisco Bowl

When: Dec. 17, 2024 | 8 p.m.
Where: Toyota Stadium, 9200 World Cup Way, Frisco
More info and tickets 

Tis the season of football! Toyota Stadium in Frisco sets the stage for an exciting college football showdown in the Frisco Bowl, featuring the Memphis Tigers and West Virginia Mountaineers. Owned and operated by ESPN Events, this annual bowl game celebrates top teams from Group of Five conferences, offering thrilling sports action in a venue renowned for hosting major events.

Carriage Rides 

When: Dec. 17 - 18, 2024 | 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Celina’s Downtown Square
Register here

Celebrate the holiday season with enchanting carriage rides through the sparkling lights of Downtown Celina and nearby neighborhoods. Perfect for families or romantic outings, the experience features vis-à-vis carriages, festive music and hot cocoa, creating a magical evening filled with wonder and joy.

Holiday Lights Run-Light Farms 

When: Dec. 18, 2024 | 6:30 p.m.
Where: The Nook CKMC, 1234 Homestead Ct, Celina
More info

Runners and walkers of all ages can enjoy a festive 3-mile route through the dazzling holiday lights of Light Farms. With a no-pressure atmosphere, group photos and plenty of Christmas cheer, participants are encouraged to wear their most festive attire and embrace the holiday spirit.

Texas Giving Machine

When: Until Dec. 18, 2024 | 8 p.m.
Where: 8843 Coleman Blvd., Frisco
More info 

Bright red Light the World Giving Machines offer a unique way to support those in need by donating specific items through trusted local and international charities. Sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the machines ensure 100% of donations benefit the chosen organizations, with locations available across Texas and beyond.

Ugly Christmas Sweater Happy Hour

When: Dec. 19, 2024 | 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Where: The Monument Realty PGA District, 3255 PGA Parkway, Frisco
More info

Celebrate the season with a festive evening of food, drinks and fun, featuring a 15% discount for guests donning their ugliest Christmas sweater. A must-try is the holiday-inspired "down the chimney" cocktail, blending Jameson Irish Whiskey, Bailey’s Irish Cream and Oreo-infused vanilla ice cream. Reserve your spot to enjoy the merriment.

Christmas with C.S. Lewis  

When: Dec. 19-22, 2024 | Times vary
Where: Charles W. Eisemann Center for Performing Arts, 2351 Performance Dr, Richardson
More info

C.S. Lewis’s perspective on Christmas transformed after a pivotal discussion with J.R.R. Tolkien, who argued that the story of Christ’s birth was the one true myth. This conversation marked the beginning of Lewis’s journey from atheism to Christianity, giving the holiday profound new meaning in his life.

Tinsel Town Tavern: A Holiday Pop-Up Experience 

When: Until Jan. 1, 2025 | Times vary
Where: The Stix Icehouse, 301 Eldorado Pkwy #100, McKinney
More info

Step into a festive wonderland at the Tinsel Town Tavern Christmas Pop-Up, offering themed drinks, holiday décor and a variety of unique events to make the season bright. From craft beer tastings to holiday celebrations, there’s something special for everyone.

Honorable Mention

Dear Evan Hansen

When: Dec. 19 - 21, 2024 | Times vary
Where: Winspear Opera House, 2403 Flora St, Dallas
Tickets starting at $69

While Dear Evan Hansen is not a holiday-themed musical, some say it's a good show to see during the holidays with messages of hope, connection and self discovery. Featuring an award-winning score by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, this powerful production delivers unforgettable songs like “You Will Be Found” and “Waving Through A Window,” capturing the challenges of fitting in and finding your place in the world.

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