{image via Bike Friendly Oak Cliff}
The weeks leading up to Christmas, full of preparations and cozy-making, are our favorite time of year. Though gift-buying can be hectic and frazzling, the perks of the season by way of wonderment and magicalness (not a word, mind you) are endless. One of our yearly Christmastime traditions is a walk through Jinglebells on Bishop, the annual handmade craft fair and festival in the Bishop Arts District. There is always a plethora of great gifts by local artisans and delicious food, music and general merriment.
Bishop Arts District / 419 N. Bishop 75208 / Dec. 1- 6-9 pm, Dec. 3 noon-9
Festivals abound this weekend it would seem — so be sure to catch the Performing Arts Center’s 2nd annual Tree Lighting Festival on Friday in front of the Winspear Opear House. There will be carriage rides, crafts for the kids, hot chocolate and cookies and local holiday music, all leading up to the grand finale of lighting the big beautiful tree on Flora Street.
AT&T Performing Arts Center / 2403 Flora Street, Dallas / Dec. 2, 5-9 (tree lighting 7 pm)
If you’re hungry for more holiday merriment, Old Downtown Carrollton is also hosting a Christmas extravaganza this weekend that sounds full of all things quitessentially jolly — a Christmas tree lighting festival Friday night — with carolers, cocoa and nighttime shopping on the square — sounds perfect for ringing in the season. Head back to the square Saturday for a kids winter wonderland, train rides, carriage rides, artisans, and delicious food. Celebrate the season’s spirit of giving and bring an unwrapped toy to donate to Toys for Tots.
Christmas on the Square / Main Street, Carrollton / Dec. 2, 5-9; Dec. 3, 10-5
