We asked Dallas tastemakers for their seasonal staples—those items that, for them, the holidays wouldn’t be complete without. WFAA anchor Marc Istook shares his favorites.
Favorite host gift: Alcohol. Unoriginal perhaps, but most hosts can always use an extra bottle to re-stock the liquor cabinet. Plus, it’s a chance to show off a new favorite spirit or speak to your knowledge of the host’s specific tastes.
Go-to holiday cocktail or spirit: Anything cinnamon apple. Whether it’s a flavored whiskey or a boozy apple cocktail, I want something that feels like fall.
Favorite non-alcoholic holiday drink: Apple cider
Go-to bottle of wine for the holidays: Champagne. I’m not picky about the brand. Does it have bubbles? Let’s celebrate the season!
Favorite holiday sweet treat: Cherry cream cheese pie—an Istook family staple
Dish your holiday spread would be incomplete without: Queso dip. Non-traditional? Perhaps, but we’re Texans.
Favorite holiday tunes: I have several well-curated Apple Music Christmas playlists. But it’s not officially the holiday season until Otis Redding sings “White Christmas.”
Favorite holiday flick: Love Actually
Favorite holiday scent: Cinnamon apple
Must-have decorative item: A Christmas light display that would make Clark Griswold jealous
Favorite holiday tradition: Each year we create an elaborate Christmas card, attempting to capture the chaos of the season. It’s a ton of work that always has me questioning whether to continue this tradition, but when the cards go out, the response from friends and family reminds us the effort is always worth it.
Favorite holiday event in Dallas: Our kids love the Dallas Zoo lights
Best place to see holiday lights: Interlochen in Arlington
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