Dallas weekly e-newsletter |
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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:
The Christmas I was 10, my sister and I woke up at our usual ridiculously-early hour and raced downstairs to the tree. Something was different: fewer gifts than usual, no giant boxes, no bike-shaped mystery lumps. But nestled among the smaller packages were envelopes that turned out to be plane tickets to Bermuda. We were leaving that very morning, which
explained why my parents had not objected to being awakened at 5:30.
Decades later, I don’t remember what else I got that year—or most years—but I remember being bundled up and giddy, heading to the airport while it was still dark. I remember pink sand, caves, and the little cakes they served at teatime. It's all still as fresh to me as the air was at Grotto Bay Beach. That trip taught me something I wouldn’t have been able to say at the time:
Presence creates the memories, not the presents. Of course, we all want our kids to have a magical holiday. But when we think back to our own childhoods, what sticks isn’t the stuff, it’s the doing. The zoo trips, the plays, the sporting events, the concerts, the hands held during the adventures. That’s why my long-time holiday mantra is “Do it, don’t dust it.” Experiences are the gifts that last the longest, especially when we do them
together. They don’t pile up in a closet; they plant themselves in our memory. So if you’re still pondering what to give the people you love this year, consider a show, a class, a day trip, a membership, a season pass. Something that says “I see you, you matter, let's do it together." Need ideas? Head to our Local Memberships & Season Passes page! It's your ticket to the perfect gift... and it's guaranteed clutter-free.
—Debra Ross, publisher
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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. |
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I'm thrilled to announce that my new book The Eclipse Effect: How to Seize Extraordinary Moments to Build Strong Communities (co-authored with Jamie Carter) is now published and shipping across North America! It’s packed with inspiring, true stories of everyday leaders who stepped up during the 2024 eclipse to bring people together, spark change, and strengthen their communities. Told with warmth and insight, this book makes a perfect holiday gift for the visionary, organizer, or community-builder in your life. Click the graphic to order from Amazon on print or Kindle; for other ordering options (including educator and bulk orders), or to see an annotated table of contents and the introduction, head to https://theeclipseeffect.com.
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Curious how your AI know-how compares to other parents? We surveyed over 300 of you, and the results are in! The big takeaway? You aren't alone in feeling overwhelmed. While most parents have a basic grasp of the technology, over 52% feel unequipped to actually guide their kids through it. The number one thing you requested help with was "Digital Defense"—specifically, how to spot misinformation and fake news. You can read the full, fascinating report at kidsoutandabout.com/research. Ready for round two? Help us dive deeper by taking our new, quick 13-question survey here: https://forms.gle/1nTsaG384SW8cUpL7.
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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/
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Experience the beauty of the holiday season in nature at Holidays at the Heard from December 12-14 at Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary in McKinney, Texas. Stroll through twinkling light displays along a beautiful nature trail, get a glimpse of the Dinosaurs Live! exhibit, and immerse your family in the festive spirit. With interactive activities, live music, and a chance to meet Santa, there's something to delight everyone. You’ll also enjoy a variety of vendors with hot beverages, food, and gifts. Don't miss out on this unforgettable family adventure. Get tickets now and make family holiday memories that will last a lifetime!
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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.
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Seven days of light! Celebrate Hanukkah with festive events for all ages—Holiday Bazaar, Menorah Lighting, Vodkas & Latkes. Joy, community, and tradition shine bright.
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Celebrate the season with a special performance by Allen Academy skaters, competitive skaters, coaches and staff, featuring all of your favorite holiday songs! Help us fill the pantry for (ACO) by bringing a non-perishable food donation.
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Holidays are full of memories, presents, and the magic of music. Come join Coppell Community Orchestra as we show our holiday spirit through our favorite tunes.
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It’s that wonderful time of the year! Families gather and celebrate the holidays with music when guest conductor Lawrence Loh, along with two popular vocalists, soprano Jasmine Habersham and baritone Reginald Smith, Jr., return to sing seasonal favorites for the holidays. Making things even more festive are the Dallas Symphony Chorus and Children’s Chorus. And, of course, what would Christmas Pops be without an audience sing-along and an appearance by that Jolly Old Elf, aka Santa Claus! It’s fun for the entire family and sure to create memories to cherish for a lifetime.
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Bring your favorite train lover to see the Narrow Gauge model train exhibit provided by Spring Creek Model Railroad Club. Read more The club models many eras from the 1880s to the present and operates steam, diesel, freight and passenger equipment. Come & Go
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The CityLine Merry Market is back—and we’re going all out! Partnering with The Boho Market, we’re turning up the holiday cheer for TWO days this year. That’s right—twice the fun, twice the shopping, and double the holiday cheer!
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Enjoy story time by the pool during this family-friendly reading program. Children ages 8 and under must have a parent in the water.Free | All Ages
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A night of hymns, spirituals, gospel, and classical music, this annual holiday music celebration features 300 young voices from Dallas high schools, with special guests from CHARLES RICE and DUNBAR elementary, along with the incomparable BARACK OBAMA BAND.
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Ready to discover what sets St. Monica Catholic School apart? Join us for our Bearcat Chats, where you'll have the chance to discover our dynamic curriculum, tour our vibrant campus, and experience our welcoming community.
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Free Community Event featuring an encounter with Santa, a whimsical Face Painting, Custom Balloon Creations, Games, Raffles & Prizes. Food Trucks and Sweet Treats. Swag Bags & T-shirts!
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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.
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Join us for a Weekend of All Things Grinch! We will be enjoying a weekend of Arts & Crafts, Games and Food Fun Celebrating none other than The Grinch
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Take out your calendar - you have a lot of scheduling to do to fit in all the incredible Holiday Break camps taking place in and around our area! If we're missing a camp that should be on this list, please email us to let us know.
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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.
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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.
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- Annual Santa Event - Annual Santa Event - Annual Santa Event, Friday, December 12, 2025,
3pm
- Merry Movie Night-Midlothian - Midlothian Community Park - South 14th Street, Midlothian,
TX, Friday, December 12, 2025, 6:30 pm
- Chance to Dance: Winter Wonderland - 1950 South Valley Parkway - Lewisville, TX, Friday, December 12, 2025, 5-8 pm
- Teen Holiday Craft Night & Wrapping Party (After-Hours) - Lewisville Public Library - 1197 West Main Street, Lewisville, TX, Friday, December 12, 2025, 6:30-9 pm
- Free Demonstrations: Open Studios
Night December 2025 - SiNaCa Studios School of Glass and Gallery - SiNaCa Studios School of Glass and Gallery, Friday, December 12, 2025, 6 P.M. - 9 P.M.
- Holidays at Heritage: Live Music & Movie Night - Heritage Park - 217 S Main St, Irving, TX, Friday, December 12, 2025, 7 pm
- Crafternoon: Festive Tree - Audelia Road Branch Library - 10045 Audelia Road, Dallas, TX, Friday, December 12, 2025, 3:45-4:30
pm
- Family Story Time at Farmers Branch Manske Library - Farmers Branch Manske Library - 13613 Webb Chapel Rd, Farmers Branch, TX, Friday, December 12, 2025, 10:30-11:30 am
- Sensory Storytime - Fretz Park Branch Library - 6990 Belt Line Road, Dallas, TX, Friday, December 12, 2025, 10:30-11:30 am
- Toddler Time (16 Months-3 Years) - John and Judy
Gay Public Library - 6861 Eldorado Pkwy, McKinney, TX, Friday, December 12, 2025, 10:30-11:15 am
- Poco Poco Kids Music Time For Homeschoolers - Fort Worth Public Library - Golden Triangle - Golden Triangle Boulevard, Fort Worth, TX, Friday, December 12, 2025, 1:00PM - 3:00PM
- Santa's Village at Huffhines Park - Huffhines Park - North Plano Road, Richardson, TX, Friday, December 12, 2025 to Sunday, December 14, 2025, 6-9
pm
- Holiday Lights in the Park- Andrew Brown Park East - Andrew Brown Park East - Parkway Boulevard, Coppell, TX, Friday, December 12, 2025 to Sunday, December 14, 2025, 6 - 10 pm
- Illumination Celebration at Galleria Dallas - Galleria Dallas - 13350 Dallas Parkway, Dallas, TX, Friday, December 12, 2025 to Sunday, December 14, 2025, 12 pm, 2 pm, 4 pm and 6 pm
- Holiday
Performances at Galleria Dallas - Galleria Dallas - 13350 Dallas Parkway, Dallas, TX, Friday, December 12, 2025 to Sunday, December 14, 2025, 11am, 1pm, 3pm and 6pm
- Santa Is Here At Watters Creek - Watters Creek Village - 970 Garden Park Dr, Allen, TX 75013, Friday, December 12, 2025 to Sunday, December 14,
2025, see website
- Christmas Spectacular Light Show - The Colony Fire Department - 4900
Blair Oaks Drive, The Colony, TX, Friday, December 12, 2025 to Sunday, December 14, 2025, 5:30 - 10:30 pm Sunday - Thursday, 5:30 - 10:50 pm Friday - Saturday
- Christmas in the Square - 8874 Coleman Blvd, Frisco Square - Frisco, TX 75034, Friday, December 12, 2025 to Sunday, December 14, 2025, 6-10 pm
- Grinchy Holiday Fun - Dallas West Branch Library - 2332 Singleton Boulevard, Dallas, TX, Saturday, December 13, 2025, 10:30-11:30 am
- Learn & Make: Holiday Heritage & Handcrafts - Timberglen Branch Library - 18505 Midway Road, Dallas, TX, Saturday, December 13, 2025, varies
- Tales & Tides - North Lake Natatorium - North MacArthur Boulevard, Irving, TX, Saturday, December 13, 2025, 12-12:45 pm
- Animal Encounter - Dogwood Canyon Audubon Center - Farm to Market Road 1382, Cedar Hill, TX, Saturday, December 13,
2025, 11-11:30 am
- McKinney Rotary Parade of Lights - McKinney, TX - McKinney, TX, Saturday, December 13, 2025, 6:30 pm
- Live Nativity- Lamb of God Lutheran Church - Lamb of God Lutheran Church & Preschool - 1401 Cross Timbers Road, Flower Mound, TX, Saturday, December 13, 2025, 2-5 pm
- Grand Prairie Farmers Market - Grand Prairie Farmers Market - 120 W. Main St., Grand Prairie, TX 75050, Sunday, December 14, 2025, 8 am- 1 pm
- North Pole- Joe Farmer Recreation
Center - Joe Farmer Recreation Center - East Bethany Drive, Allen, TX, Sunday, December 14, 2025, 9:30 am - 2:30 pm
- Free mini photo session with Shoott! - Dallas - Fort Worth - Shoott - Broadway, New York, NY, Friday, December 12, 2025 to Sunday, December 14, 2025, See link for times
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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!
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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.)
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Have a great weekend!
Debra Ross
Publisher, KidsOutAndAbout.com
Mom of Madison and Ella |
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