Can you believe it’s already December? I’ve been loving sharing some holiday cheer with my clients during my Christmas mini sessions at my Dallas studio! As a family photographer and mom of three, I know how busy this time of year is—shopping, baking, decorating, and prepping—but I’m trying to make time for fun amid all the bustle. And if you live in DFW, there are plenty of options for holiday fun! 

Below, I’ve compiled a list of just a few Dallas area events that will make the whole family merry now through January.

Holiday at the Arboretum — Now through Dec. 31

When I think of classy Christmas celebrations in Dallas, Holiday at the Arboretum always comes to mind. There’s such a sense of elegance and charm at the Dallas Arboretum, and their holiday decorations really make you feel like it’s the most wonderful time of the year. Take a stroll through their German-style Christmas village—complete with scavenger hunt—or tour the gardens and enjoy their larger-than-life Twelve Days of Christmas display. You can enjoy the gardens during the day (free for members) or at night on select days. Check their calendar for special events too!

NorthPark Center — Now through Dec. 24

There are plenty of festive mall events in the DFW metroplex, but NorthPark Center is one of my favorites for its variety and beauty. From visits with Santa to the Trains at NorthPark to Children’s Puppet Theatre, there’s something magical about the holiday celebrations at NorthPark, not to mention all the stunning decorations! The best part is, you can trade off between entertaining the kids and getting a little holiday shopping in!

Dallas Zoo Lights — Select nights now through Jan. 1: 5:30-10 p.m. 

Always a family favorite, the Dallas Zoo Lights have something for everybody. With over a million lights across the zoo, giant animal lanterns, nightly music performances, crafts, Santa’s workshop, snacks, and more, this event is definitely worth the cost and the crowd. Take the kids, or enjoy staying late on a romantic date night!

Christmas Light Tour on the Christmas Light Bus — Now through Dec. 23: Various Evening Times

Sponsored by the I See Dallas Tour Company, this event offers exactly what it sounds like: a tour of Dallas Christmas lights on a bus lit up with more Christmas lights. This is a fun and unique way to enjoy Christmas lights without having to scout out your own locations or drive yourself. Embrace the festivity and wear your ugly Christmas sweater! Tours are for ages 8 and up.

Farmstead Christmas Celebration at Nash Farm — December 10: 1-4 p.m.

If you’ve never visited Nash Farm near downtown Grapevine, you are in for a treat! This historic farmhouse offers a real 19th century farm-life experience, with live animals (including adorable sheep!), educational tours, and workshops. For their Christmas event, enjoy live traditional music, ornament making, refreshments, and more! It’s the perfect outing for kids who love farm animals and open spaces to run. Afterwards, you can stop by downtown Grapevine, the Christmas capital of Texas!

Local Parades & Tree Lightings — Various Dates & Times

If you live in a DFW suburb, there are tons of city-sponsored Christmas events happening throughout the month of December. Check your local listings for parades, tree lightings, and Santa sightings. The best part is, most of these events are free and take place before little ones’ bedtimes.

There are so many more wonderful ways to celebrate the holidays in DFW! And, of course, there is never anything wrong with simply sitting back with a cup of hot cocoa and a Hallmark movie! What are your favorite Dallas area Christmas events? My favorites are the ones that fill my kids with wonder, which always reminds me to pause and contemplate the magic and the reason for the season! 

Ana Dufreche is a luxury, lifestyle photographer servicing the Dallas Fort Worth Metroplex. She specializes in motherhood, family, and newborn photography. Her sessions take place outdoors, in-home, and at her studio. The ADP studio is located in Downtown Dallas!