As Thanksgiving approaches, Dallas gears up to offer a delightful array of activities and events to celebrate the season of gratitude and togetherness. Whether you’re spending the day with your family, friends, or solo there’s no shortage of festive cheer to be found. Here are 8 fantastic things to do to around Thanksgiving to make the most of the holiday in Dallas.
1. Experience Astra Lumina
Embark on an enchanting exploration through Trinity Forest Adventure Park for Astra Lumina. The spectacular new experience in Dallas invites Dallasites to enter a world of constellations in bright, magnificent splendor.
2. Sign up for Dallas YMCA Turkey Trot
Thanksgiving doesn’t really start in Dallas until you run the YMCA Turkey Trot. On November 28, join thousands of fellow Dallasites in a race to give back to the community. A 5k race, an 8-mile race, and a fun run, as well as live music, food, and other fun activities, will all be part of this fun-filled day to celebrate with family and friends.
3. Watch the Dallas Cowboys Thanksgiving game
Put your NFL gear and cowboy hats on because, on November 28, the Dallas Cowboys will face the New York Giants in their traditional Thanksgiving game at Dallas’ AT&T Stadium.
4. Experience Candlelight concerts
If music is what you’re after, then say no more! Candlelight is the perfect pre-, post-, and during-Thanksgiving event to go to this year. Celebrate the beginning of the holiday season surrounded by a sea of candles as talented musicians play classical renditions of all your favorite songs. “Cozy” and “spectacular” are words often used by guests who have already experienced Candlelight’s concerts. So, don’t let anyone spoil you the magic, and get your tickets now!
5. Light up your day at Dallas Zoo
A Dallas favorite, the Dallas Zoo lights up from November 22 to January 4 this year, with more than a million lights sparkling across the Zoo. Walk through a wild winter wonderland with larger-than-life glowing lanterns and holiday-themed photo ops perfect for the ‘Gram. Treat yourself to festive foods and drinks, chat with Santa, and groove to the musical performance at this unique holiday experience.
6. Kick off the holidays at Christmas in the Square
Get ready to start the holiday season with a bang at Christmas in the Square! Running from November 22 to January 6, this event features the most massive choreographed holiday lights and music show in North Texas with over 10 dance-worthy songs at no cost. Additionally, there’s an ice rink, opportunities to meet Santa, horse-drawn carriage rides, and a dazzling light tunnel available for an extra charge. So, revel in the holiday magic at Christmas in the Square, where there’s something special for everyone to enjoy this season!
7. Check out Home for the Holidays in McKinney
On November 29, gather around The Square in Historic Downtown McKinney for the traditional Christmas tree lightning at 6:15 p.m. This enchanting holiday market features a delightful array of activities for the entire family. With twinkling lights, live entertainment, food vendors, visits with Santa, a petting zoo, and Frosty’s holiday train, the downtown streets transform into a winter wonderland.
8. Hop on The Trains at Northpark
Hop aboard The Trains at Northpark for an extraordinary experience that combines holiday cheer with giving back to the community. The exhibit features a miniature train display with detailed cityscapes and beautiful landscapes, offering a magical journey for all ages. The attraction not only delights visitors but also benefits a good cause, as the proceeds support the Ronald McDonald House of Dallas.