Holiday things to do in Dallas began weeks ago, but we’re just now getting in to prime Christmas light season. Here’s a quick guide to some of the best Christmas lights in North Texas, from professional shows to neighborhood displays. Some you can enjoy from the warmth of your car, others you’ll have to get out and take in on foot. With the exception of the “drive-through professional shows,” these are all free of cost.
Drive-Through Professional Shows
Prairie Lights: A drive-through winter wonderland. The overall effect can resemble a “tunnel of light,” with wraparound LED displays at certain points. Drive through, but be sure to get out and play at a holiday village about halfway into the route. Flood conditions at Joe Pool Lake have forced organizers to improvise, and sections of the show remain closed, but — on the plus side — prices have now been discounted. Even at 75 percent, this is still one of the more impressive shows around. Lynn Creek Park, 5700 Lake Ridge Pkwy Grand Prairie.
Texas Motor Speedway Gift of Lights: You’ll have to drive slow, but head out to the track at Texas Motor Speedway to take in an elaborate light course. Tickets are roughly $25 a car. Texas Motor Speedway, 3545 Lone Star Cir., Fort Worth.
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Neighborhood Lights
Highland Park: Some of the nicest homes in North Texas have some of the most dazzling Christmas lights every year. Traffic is usually bumper-to-bumper, so if you’ve got $200 or more to throw around, consider booking yourself a carriage for the full tour. Drive in at Armstrong and Preston to get the full experience.
Interlochen Lights in Arlington: This Arlington neighborhood does not shirk the responsibility that comes with being named the “Texas best” Christmas lights by the Texas Country Reporter. The lights won’t be at full strength until Dec. 17, but be patient. It’s worth the wait. Find directions to your magical drive-through Arlington Christmas light experience right here.
Christmas Tour of Lights in Farmers Branch: Start at Valley View Lane and I-35 to go down the path of one of the longer neighborhood shows in the area. Tune in to 107.3 FM for the full experience.
Deerfield: The Northwest Plano neighborhood’s light displays have reached the level of notoriety that brings enterprising carriage operators around. For good reason: This is one of the biggest, most jaw-dropping shows in town. Go here for more information and directions.
Kessler Park: The Oak Cliff neighborhood also boasts one of the best views of the downtown Dallas skyline. More info here.
Get Out and Mosey
Vitruvian Lights in Addison: Regardless of the weather, Vitruvian Park qualifies as a winter wonderland in December by virtue of the Christmas lights illuminating its paths. On select nights (Dec. 12 and 19, to start) you’ll also hear live music and find other family-friendly activities. Go here for more info.
Christmas in the Frisco Square: A carefully orchestrated nightly light and music show is the main attraction at Christmas in the Frisco Square. More info here.
