Dallas weekly e-newsletter |
|
|
|
Sat, Dec 20: Oak Cliff Vendor Marketplace: Kwanzaa at Ujima Socials
Sun, Dec 21: Chanukah Story Hour at Renner Frankford Branch Library
Fri, Dec 26: Mrs. Doubtfire at WINSPEAR OPERA HOUSE
Sat, Dec 27: 7th Annual Jerry Pinkney Day & Kwanzaa Celebration at Forest Green Branch Library
Wed, Dec 31: Lone
Star NYE 2026 at Reunion Tower
Wed, Dec 31: 2026 New Year’s Eve Bash at Grandscape
Thu, Jan 1: Day 1 DFW at Irving Convention Center
Sun, Jan 11: STOMP Presented by the Coppell Arts Center
Sat, Jan 17: Dallas Area Train Show at North Texas Council of Railroad Clubs
Fri, Jan
23: Open House- Dallas Academy
Sat, Jan 24: The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show at Dallas Children's Theater
Sat, Jan 31: Little Sweetheart Dance at Plano Event Center |
Dear KidsOutAndAbout readers:
It's often said that parenting is a "thankless" job. In one sense, that's undeniably true, because it will likely be many years before the young humans you're raising—the ones who actually have a stake in the outcome of the excellent job you're doing—are in a position to thank you. So you don't hear that phrase often during the first couple of decades of parenthood.
My fervent wish
for the future is to live in a world filled with engaged, culturally literate, productive, happy people. This means that what I said above isn't precisely accurate: It's not only your kids who have a stake in your parenting success, we ALL do, because the path to that future starts NOW for the young people in your orbit. So I'm grateful that you care about getting them "out and about" to the wide variety of experiences available in your community: It will make all
the difference.
Our job here at KidsOutAndAbout.com is to help you do that as easily as possible. In 2001, I created the original version of this web platform that now connects 15 million people each year with their area's activities and resources. My team gets to see it all up-close and personal as local businesses post to KidsOutAndAbout through their free listings, and then we get to turn around and shout about them to y'all, bringing your community closer to you.
So I want to
step in for the rest of the world that's not (yet) thanking you, and say it to you today: Thank you so much for what you're doing. Raising kids is hard in any era, but no one could have anticipated all the roadblocks that a pandemic would toss onto our path.
As anyone who knows me knows, I'm endlessly looking for reasons to celebrate. So today, I'm celebrating YOU with my digital megaphone and pom-poms. You're doing a great job. Future Deb sends her thanks,
too.
—Debra Ross, publisher
|
|
|
KidsOutAndAbout.com: Discover more. Do more. Connect more. If you like my publisher's column, you can easily scroll through past columns in the "Notes from Deb" section of our site. |
|
|
|
KidsOutAndAbout.com is conducting a short survey to better understand how families are navigating the fast-changing world of AI. We're asking all parents, grandparents, and caregivers—whether you're tech-savvy or not—to weigh in. Your input will directly shape upcoming national resources designed to help families guide kids wisely and safely. The survey closes soon, so please take 60–90 seconds to be part of this important effort.
|
|
|
|
|
Ripley's Believe It or Not - Grand Prairie Get ready to experience unbelievable family fun at the fascinating Ripley’s Believe It or Not! with five awesome indoor attractions under one roof. Discover wonder in our Ripley’s Believe it or Not Odditorium and marvel at hundreds of rare and unusual artifacts and interactive fun. Mingle with your favorite celebrities at Louis Tussaud Palace of Wax. Experience the thrill of riding the movies on our 7d moving theater or find your way through the exciting Ripley’s enchanted mirror maze with countless selfie opportunities. Last, test your skills at the all new Ripleys Power up video game experience. Ripley’s Grand Prairie is your one-stop destination for hours of family fun! $3 off Combo Ticket! https://www.ripleys.com/grandprairie/
|
|
|
|
Dallas Zoo Lights Presented by Reliant returns, brighter than ever! Families can explore millions of sparkling lights, immersive themed zones, larger-than-life animal lanterns, and festive holiday treats. New this year, guests can arrive early with the Combo Ticket to visit the animals before the lights come on, and they can elevate their visit with cozy Holiday Igloos perfect for groups and glowing photos. Santa will also be on-site throughout the season for holiday cheer and memorable pictures. Dallas Zoo Lights runs nightly from November 14 through January 4. More information at DallasZoo.com/Zoo-Lights.
|
|
|
|
From November 7, 2025, to January 18, 2026, the Tianyu Lights Festival brings families together for a magical evening at Texas Trust CU Theatre Festival Grounds in Dallas. This year’s theme, Koda’s Adventure to the Magical Ocean, invites guests to explore an enchanting wonderland of glowing art installations and larger-than-life lanterns that bring Koda’s dreams to life. Children will love the interactive playground and whimsical magic car ride, while families enjoy dazzling displays at every turn. The festival also features a marketplace filled with unique souvenirs and a food court offering delicious food and drinks, making it the perfect night out for all ages.
|
|
|
|
Santa at the Station is back! Join us at the Dallas Firefighters Museum for a magical holiday experience on Saturday, November 29th from 10AM–5PM! Bring the whole family for FREE to meet Santa, explore historic fire trucks, enjoy festive activities, and tour the museum. Dallas Firefighters Museum 3801 Parry Ave, Dallas, TX 75226 Lines begin at 9:30 am and doors open at 10 am — come early and make unforgettable holiday memories inside Dallas’ iconic historic firehouse. Learn more at dallasfiremuseum.org.
|
|
|
|
Celebrate the holidays with North Texas Performing Arts, the region’s largest youth-focused theatre organization dedicated to developing character through performing arts education and family entertainment. With nearly 200 productions annually, including youth shows, community theatre, Silver Theatre, Deaf Theatre, and our Starcatchers program for actors with disabilities, NTPA truly has something for every family. Don’t miss our 15th annual production of Scrooge the Musical, December 10–21 in Plano! Featuring a cast of 150 youth and adult performers, Scrooge is the longest-running musical adaptation of A Christmas Carol in Texas and a beloved North Texas tradition. Get tickets at NTPA.org/tickets.
|
|
|
|
Give your child a holiday full of adventure at Wild Adventures Camp at the Dallas Zoo! Students in Kindergarten through Grade 8 can explore the Dallas Zoo through hands-on projects, interactive games, guided tours, and close-up animal encounters. Thanksgiving Break Camp provides a three-day camp experience, while Winter Break Camps offer single-day adventures. Organized by grade level and led by experienced Camp Guides, each camp day is packed with fun, learning, and unforgettable memories. Spots fill up fast – register your little explorer today! Thanksgiving Camp: Nov. 24–26 from 9 am - 3 pm. Winter Camps: Dec. 22, 23, 29, 30, and 31, and Jan. 1, 2, and 5 from 9 am - 3 pm.
|
|
|
|
Since 1958, St. Elizabeth of Hungary Catholic School has focused providing a quality academic education, which enhances the development of each student's potential, and encourages acceptance of the Christian responsibility to share one's gifts in service of community through works of charity, peace, and justice. We serve students in grades PK3-8th grade.
|
|
|
|
Join us this Thanksgiving weekend to see Chamberlain Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker, featuring Principal Guest Artists Chloe Misseldine from American Ballet Theatre as the Sugar Plum Fairy and Tyler Angle, from New York City Ballet’s as her Cavalier. The production will also feature Guest Artists from Bruce Wood Dance Dallas. Gather your loved ones and experience the beauty, excitement, and magic of The Nutcracker with Chamberlain Ballet!
|
|
|
|
Stroll the 14-block area of McKinney's 166-year-old commercial historic downtown for family activities, food, and entertainment. Enjoy a uniquely McKinney Christmas celebration with neighbors and visitors from near and far. Admission is free and open to the public
|
|
|
|
A FUN-FILLED ADVENTURE! Join Mickey Mouse and his Disney friends on adventures filled with world-class skating, high-flying acrobatics, and unexpected stunts! Sail away with Moana and Maui as they bravely return the stolen heart of Te Fiti. Follow Miguel’s journey through the Land of the Dead to unlock his family’s history. Sing along with Aladdin, Genie, and Jasmine as their adventure takes them to a whole new world. Say “Howdy, partner!” to Woody and his friends and see the Green Army Men fly through the air. See Anna, Elsa, Kristoff, and Olaf live on ice like never before.
|
|
|
|
Dallas’ most magical Christmas experience returns this holiday season, completely reimagined with a brand-new trail, fresh story moments, and dazzling surprises waiting around every turn.
|
|
|
|
Get ready to jingle all the way with The Merry Band of Christmas! Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with a heartwarming, toe-tapping night of festive tunes! The Merry Band of Christmas will be LIVE on The Grandscape Stage & Lawn on Saturday, November 29 from 7:00-9:00pm. This show is FREE to the public. Enjoy the concert from our vast lawn by bringing a blanket or lawn chair!
|
|
|
|
Take a break with us and get out into the preserve for some fresh air , relaxation, and some birding. We will hike to the Cabin overlook, sit, and watch birds. We will relax and take whatever the preserve has to offer. If birds come by, we'll sit and watch their behavior, if no birds appear we will enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells of the overlook. What a great way to relax this Thanksgiving weekend!
|
|
|
|
HO HO HO! Come visit Santa at the DALLAS FIREFIGHTER'S MUSEUM on Saturday, November 29th from 10:00AM to 5:00PM. Then wander through this iconic fire station, active from 1907 to 1975. Learn fire safety and see historical fire equipment, gear, photos and more. FREE including museum entrance.
|
|
|
|
Are you tired of the same old turkey every Thanksgiving? Well, we’ve got something truly special lined up for you and your family! In-Sync Exotics invites you to an unforgettable event that promises to be a real treat for you and your family! Watch as our majestic big cats indulge in a Thanksgiving feast fit for royalty, featuring mouthwatering Cornish Game Hens. The festivities kick off at 1 p.m., and we promise a spectacle that will leave you and your family utterly captivated.
|
|
|
|
Bah Humbug! Embark on a magical Christmas Eve adventure with Ebenezer Scrooge as three otherworldly spirits whisk him away on a breathtaking journey of hope and redemption. From the nostalgic warmth of Christmases past to the stark truths of the present and the ominous shadows of the future, Scrooge’s journey is a spectacle of wonder. Prepare for dazzling visuals, enchanting melodies, and a heartwarming tale that celebrates the transformative power of the holiday spirit.
|
|
|
|
Gobble up the Fun! Open everyday Thanksgiving week — except Thanksgiving Day! PEPPA PIG Theme Park in Dallas/Fort Worth is an oinktastic destination for families. This standalone park, inspired by the beloved Peppa Pig television series, features six rides, six themed playscapes, and more. Little ones can embark on thrilling adventures, like Daddy Pig’s Roller Coaster or Grampy Rabbit’s Dinosaur Adventure, making this the perfect first theme park experience.
|
|
|
|
Grab a spot and join us at Play Street Museum McKinney on Sunday, December 1st for a Sweet Time with Santa! Bring your camera and get ready to take lots of pictures, enjoy crafts, playtime, and a visit with Santa! Each child receives a special gift, milk, and cookies from Santa at the end of the event. 2 adults per family, please.
|
|
|
|
Create unforgettable memories at The Nutcracker. This cherished tradition brings families together year after year, offering a world of enchantment where snowflakes swirl, dreams come to life, and holiday magic fills the air. Let Tchaikovsky’s timeless score and Ben Stevenson, O.B.E.’s captivating choreography awaken your holiday spirit this Christmas. Tickets sell quickly, so buy yours early to ensure you and your family continue to enjoy this magical holiday tradition together.
|
|
|
|
Celebrate the magic of the season at Christmas at the Anatole, Dallas’ premier holiday destination. Glide across the sparkling outdoor ice-skating rink, cozy up in a private Winter Glass Chalet, or sip seasonal cocktails at The Lodge. Families can delight in a festive ride on the holiday train, enjoy a cheerful Breakfast with Santa, and discover even more holiday surprises throughout the iconic Hilton Anatole. From twinkling lights to joyful moments, it’s the holiday tradition your family will treasure year after year.
|
|
|
|
|
|
The Dallas area offers a delightful selection of Christmas tree farms that bring the magic of the holiday season to life. Families can enjoy the cherished tradition of selecting the perfect tree while exploring picturesque landscapes and engaging in festive
activities.
|
|
|
|
|
|
KidsOutAndAbout's 2025 holiday events list for Dallas -ways to make the holidays special in our area for 2025. Christmas concerts, lights, trees, nativities, and more. . . plus activities for Chanukah, Kwanzaa, and New Year's Eve.
|
|
|
- Christmas in the Square - 8874 Coleman Blvd, Frisco, TX 75034, United States, Google Maps, Friday, November 21, 2025 to Sunday, November 23, 2025, 6-10 pm
- Elementary Math Game event - AoPS Academy Frisco, Independence Parkway, Frisco, TX, USA, Google Maps, Friday, November 21, 2025, 2:00-3:00 pm
- Bearcat Chat - St. Monica Catholic School, Walnut Hill Lane, Dallas, TX, USA, Google Maps, Friday, November 21, 2025, 10:00AM
- Paid Research Intervention Study for Adolescents (Ages
13-16) UT Dallas - UT Dallas, Google Maps, Friday, November 21, 2025, Study appointments begin at 9:00AM and can be scheduled till 9:00PM each day
- Grand
Prairie Farmers Market - 120 W. Main St., Grand Prairie, TX 75050, United States, Google Maps, Saturday, November 22, 2025, 8 am- 1 pm
- SaturYAY - Kaleidoscope Park, 6635 Warren Parkway, Frisco, TX 75034, United States, Google Maps, Saturday, November 22, 2025, 10 am- 4 pm
- Plano Holiday Market - Carpenter Park Recreation Center, Coit Road, Plano, TX, USA, Google Maps, Saturday, November 22, 2025 to Sunday, November 23, 2025, 9 am -
5 pm on Saturday and 11 am to 4 pm on Sunday
- Our Village Glows - The Shops at Highland Village, 1701 Shoal Creek, Highland Village, TX 75077, United States, Google Maps, Saturday, November 22, 2025, 5:30 pm
- Light The Night - Watters Creek Village, 970 Garden Park Dr, Allen, TX 75013,
United States, Google Maps, Saturday, November 22, 2025, 4:30 pm
- Santa Is Here At Watters
Creek - Watters Creek Village, 970 Garden Park Dr, Allen, TX 75013, United States, Google Maps, Saturday, November 22, 2025 to Sunday, November 23, 2025, see website
- Clean out the Creek Community Project - Allen Heritage Village, Saint Mary Drive, Allen, TX, USA, Google Maps, Saturday, November 22, 2025, 10 am- 2
pm
- Showtime Saturdays at Galleria Dallas - Galleria Dallas, 13350 Dallas Parkway, Dallas, TX 75240, United States, Google Maps, Saturday, November 22, 2025, 11:30 am
- Turkey Trek - Dogwood Canyon Audubon Center, Farm to Market Road 1382, Cedar Hill, TX 75104, United States, Google Maps, Saturday, November 22, 2025, 11 am
- Village Lights - Hillside Village Shopping Center, Farm to Market Road 1382,
Cedar Hill, TX, USA, Google Maps, Saturday, November 22, 2025, 5:30PM
- Turkey Burn Ride -
Apex Home Realty, Fort Drive, Centreville, VA, USA, Google Maps, Sunday, November 23, 2025, 1-2 pm
|
|
|
|
Click here to discover Birthday party locations in the Dallas area. From Arcades to Ziplines our Big List will help you think outside the box and plan the party of your kids' dreams! KidsOutAndAbout has dozens of ideas!
|
|
|
|
|
|
Every May and June, thousands of local parents, grandparents, and caregivers weigh in on their favorite local places to take kids. This is the page where we showcase the Dallas-area winners for 2025. (Click here to see the full list of nominees.)
|
|
|
Have a great weekend!
Debra Ross
Publisher, KidsOutAndAbout.com
Mom of Madison and Ella |
|
|
