Visit DFW: November 13–16, 2026
Your Dallas Native Weekend Guide to Dallas, Fort Worth & Beyond
The holiday season is officially making its way to North Texas, and this weekend is packed with things to do! From the opening of Dallas Zoo Lights and ICE! featuring Harry Potter at Gaylord Texan to the return of Holiday at the Arboretum, Broadway performances, monster trucks, football, live music, and holiday shopping, there’s something for everyone across the Metroplex.
Whether you’re ready to get into the holiday spirit or just looking for a fun weekend outing, here’s your Dallas Native guide to November 13–16!
Friday, November 13
Dallas Zoo Lights – Dallas Zoo | Opening Weekend
The holiday lights are officially on!
Dallas Zoo Lights returns Friday evening for its tenth anniversary celebration, transforming the zoo into a glowing wonderland filled with more than two million lights, illuminated animal sculptures, interactive displays, and festive entertainment.
The walk-through experience runs from 5:30–9 p.m. on select evenings through January 3. Tickets start at $19, making this a great family outing to kick off the holiday season.
ICE! Featuring Harry Potter – Gaylord Texan Resort | Opens November 13
The magic of the holidays arrives in Grapevine!
Gaylord Texan Resort kicks off its Christmas celebration with ICE! featuring Harry Potter, an immersive attraction featuring elaborate ice sculptures inspired by the beloved films.
Explore iconic locations including Hogwarts Castle, Hogsmeade Station, the Forbidden Forest, and the Great Hall. The attraction also features ice slides, colorful displays, and plenty of holiday photo opportunities.
The resort’s holiday festivities continue through January 3, with additional activities available throughout the season.
Holiday at the Arboretum – Dallas Arboretum
One of Dallas’ most beloved holiday traditions is back!
Holiday at the Arboretum transforms the gardens with the famous 12 Days of Christmas gazebos, festive displays, a Christmas Village, and more than a million sparkling lights.
This year is especially meaningful as it marks the final season for the 12 Days of Christmas gazebo exhibit.
Enjoy the gardens during the day or experience Holiday at Night from 5–10 p.m. for an illuminated evening stroll.
All You Can Eataly: Après Holiday – Eataly Dallas | NorthPark Center
Food lovers, this one’s for you!
Eataly Dallas hosts its Après Holiday celebration from 6–10 p.m., transforming the Italian marketplace into a winter chalet-inspired experience.
Enjoy unlimited tastings of more than 30 Italian dishes, selections from over 50 wines, spirits, and beers, live DJs, karaoke, an artisan holiday market, and an ugly sweater contest.
Tickets start at $125, making this a festive adults’ night out.
Late Night at the Museum – Dallas Museum of Art
Experience the Dallas Museum of Art after hours!
The DMA hosts a special evening from 7–11 p.m. featuring live music, DJs, interactive art activities, exhibitions, cocktails, and food available for purchase.
Explore galleries throughout the museum, discover new exhibitions, and enjoy a different side of the Dallas Arts District.
General admission is $25, with special pricing for members and VIP experiences available.
Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live: Glow-N-Fire – Dickies Arena | November 13–15
Monster trucks take over Fort Worth!
Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live brings its Glow-N-Fire experience to Dickies Arena for a weekend of oversized trucks, exciting stunts, and family entertainment.
Friday’s show begins at 7 p.m., with additional performances Saturday and Sunday.
Fans can also explore special pre-show experiences, making this a great weekend option for families with monster truck enthusiasts.
Bruce Wood Dance Dallas – Moody Performance Hall | November 13–15
Enjoy an evening of contemporary dance in the Dallas Arts District.
Bruce Wood Dance Dallas opens its 17th season with a special program featuring Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, Schmetterling, and the world premiere of Hänsel und Gretel.
Friday’s performance begins at 7:30 p.m., with additional shows Saturday evening and Sunday afternoon.
The BOE Exhibition Receptions – The Cedars Union
Explore Dallas’ local art scene with an evening at The Cedars Union.
From 6–8 p.m., visitors can experience five exhibitions opening in one building, meet members of the creative community, and discover new work from local artists.
The event is open to the public, making it a great option for a Friday evening focused on art and culture.
Saturday, November 14
The Trains at NorthPark – NorthPark Center | Opening Weekend
One of Dallas’ favorite holiday traditions returns!
The Trains at NorthPark opens Saturday, featuring hundreds of miniature trains traveling along approximately 1,600 feet of track through elaborate landscapes and recognizable landmarks.
The annual exhibit benefits Ronald McDonald House Dallas and is a wonderful outing for families, train enthusiasts, and anyone ready for the holiday season.
The exhibit continues through January 3.
Dallas Cowboys vs. San Francisco 49ers – AT&T Stadium | Sunday Preview
Football fans, get ready for a major NFC matchup this weekend!
The Dallas Cowboys host the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday afternoon at AT&T Stadium in Arlington.
Saturday is a great time to plan your game-day gathering, make reservations around Arlington’s Entertainment District, or explore the area before Sunday’s big game.
TCU vs. Kansas State – Amon G. Carter Stadium
College football fans can head to Fort Worth Saturday as the TCU Horned Frogs host the Kansas State Wildcats.
Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m., giving fans plenty of time to enjoy lunch near campus before heading to the stadium.
Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live – Dickies Arena
Saturday brings two opportunities to catch the Glow-N-Fire action!
Shows are scheduled for 11:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m., with optional pre-show experiences available.
Expect powerful trucks, impressive stunts, and an action-packed arena atmosphere.
Ryan Bingham and The Texas Gentlemen – Billy Bob’s Texas
Spend Saturday night in the Fort Worth Stockyards!
Ryan Bingham and The Texas Gentlemen take the stage at Billy Bob’s Texas at 9 p.m.
Grab dinner, explore Exchange Avenue, and enjoy live Texas music at the World’s Largest Honky Tonk.
Frozen: The Broadway Musical – Casa Mañana
The magic of Arendelle continues in Fort Worth!
Frozen: The Broadway Musical brings Elsa, Anna, Olaf, and their unforgettable story to the Casa Mañana stage.
With colorful costumes, familiar songs, and theatrical effects, this is a great family-friendly option for the weekend. The production continues through November 15.
Yule Log Decorating with La Casita Bakeshop – Dallas Arboretum
Get creative with a festive holiday baking experience!
The Dallas Arboretum hosts a Yule Log decorating class with La Casita Bakeshop from 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
Learn how to transform a rolled cake into a beautiful holiday centerpiece during this hands-on workshop.
Tickets are $69 for members and $79 for guests.
Upcycle Market – Dallas Farmers Market | November 14–15
Shop local and discover something unique!
The Dallas Farmers Market hosts an Upcycle Market Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m.–4 p.m., featuring vintage finds, repurposed goods, creative vendors, and live music.
Families can also enjoy children’s activities during the morning hours.
It’s a great way to support local makers while getting a head start on holiday shopping.
Dallas’ Best Tacos & Margaritas Tour
Explore Dallas one taco at a time!
This popular Saturday food tour takes guests to local restaurants for a tasting experience featuring tacos, margaritas, and some of the city’s favorite flavors.
Reservations are recommended.
Opera Arlington Presents Recuerdos
Experience an evening of music celebrating the traditions of Mexico, Spain, and beyond.
Opera Arlington presents Recuerdos, featuring emerging artists from across Dallas–Fort Worth.
It’s a wonderful opportunity to enjoy live classical performance while supporting local musical talent.
Sunday, November 15
Dallas Cowboys vs. San Francisco 49ers – AT&T Stadium
It’s game day in Arlington!
The Dallas Cowboys take on the San Francisco 49ers at AT&T Stadium, with kickoff scheduled for 3:25 p.m.
Whether you’re heading to the stadium or watching from your favorite sports bar, expect plenty of football excitement across DFW.
Plan ahead for traffic and crowds around Arlington’s Entertainment District.
Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live – Final Day | Dickies Arena
Sunday is the final opportunity to catch Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live: Glow-N-Fire in Fort Worth!
The show begins at 1:30 p.m., with a pre-show experience available earlier in the day.
A fun afternoon option for families looking for something different.
Holiday at the Arboretum – Dallas Arboretum
Spend Sunday surrounded by beautiful holiday displays!
Explore the 12 Days of Christmas gazebos, stroll through the gardens, visit the Christmas Village, and enjoy seasonal photo opportunities.
Santa visits are scheduled from noon–3 p.m. and 6–9 p.m., giving families another reason to make the Arboretum part of their weekend plans.
Dallas Zoo Lights – Dallas Zoo
Keep the holiday spirit going with a Sunday evening visit to Dallas Zoo Lights.
Enjoy illuminated displays, festive entertainment, and larger-than-life animal sculptures throughout the zoo from 5:30–9 p.m.
It’s a wonderful way to end the weekend with family or friends.
Bruce Wood Dance Dallas – Final Performance
Sunday is your final chance to experience Bruce Wood Dance Dallas’ opening program at Moody Performance Hall.
The afternoon performance begins at 2 p.m. and features imaginative choreography inspired by classic stories.
From the Saddle to Symphony Hall – Will Rogers Auditorium
Celebrate Fort Worth’s musical heritage with From the Saddle to Symphony Hall: Cowtown, Birthplace of Western Swing.
This Sunday afternoon performance at Will Rogers Auditorium begins at 1:30 p.m. and offers a unique opportunity to explore the history of Western swing music.
Dallas Farmers Market
Slow down Sunday morning with coffee, brunch, and shopping at the Dallas Farmers Market.
Browse fresh produce, artisan goods, seasonal finds, and specialty foods before exploring the weekend’s Upcycle Market.
Fort Worth Stockyards
Enjoy a classic Texas Sunday in the Fort Worth Stockyards.
Catch the Fort Worth Herd cattle drive, browse Western boutiques, explore Mule Alley, and grab lunch or dinner at one of the district’s many restaurants.
Monday, November 16
Holiday at the Arboretum – Dallas Arboretum
The holiday season continues Monday at the Dallas Arboretum!
Explore the 12 Days of Christmas displays, festive gardens, and seasonal decorations during a quieter weekday visit.
The gardens are open during the day, with Holiday at Night experiences available in the evening.
Little Adventurers – Dallas Arboretum
Looking for something to do with younger children?
Little Adventurers takes place Monday from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. in the Children’s Adventure Garden.
Enjoy hands-on activities and educational experiences, then explore the holiday displays while you’re there.
Dallas College Cooks – A Tasteful Place
The Dallas Arboretum hosts Dallas College Cooks from 11 a.m.–noon at A Tasteful Place.
Enjoy a culinary demonstration and explore the gardens for a relaxing Monday outing.
ICE! Featuring Harry Potter – Gaylord Texan Resort
Monday is a great opportunity to experience ICE! at Gaylord Texan after the opening weekend crowds.
Explore the elaborate Harry Potter-themed ice sculptures, walk through the festive displays, and enjoy the resort’s holiday atmosphere.
Check ticket availability and attraction hours before visiting.
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone in Shared Reality – Cosm | The Colony
Harry Potter fans have another opportunity to experience the wizarding world!
Cosm in The Colony offers Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone in Shared Reality, an immersive presentation of the film using advanced visual technology.
Monday showtimes are listed for 11:30 a.m. and 3 p.m.
Explore the Dallas Arts District
After a busy weekend, Monday is a great day to explore downtown Dallas at a slower pace.
Walk through the Arts District, enjoy public art and architecture, stop for coffee, or visit a nearby cultural attraction.
Check museum operating hours before visiting, as some locations are closed Mondays.
Reunion Tower at Sunset
Wrap up your extended weekend with one of the best views in Dallas!
Visit Reunion Tower’s GeO-Deck for panoramic views of downtown Dallas and watch the skyline light up as the sun sets.
Confirm operating hours and reserve tickets ahead of your visit.
How to Use This Weekend Guide
Friday is all about kicking off the holiday season! Experience the opening of Dallas Zoo Lights, explore ICE! featuring Harry Potter at Gaylord Texan, enjoy Holiday at the Arboretum, or head downtown for Late Night at the Dallas Museum of Art.
Saturday brings family fun with The Trains at NorthPark, Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live, Frozen at Casa Mañana, and holiday activities at the Arboretum. Sports fans can catch TCU football, while live music lovers can head to Billy Bob’s Texas for Ryan Bingham.
Sunday is packed with options, including Cowboys football, the final Hot Wheels Monster Trucks show, Dallas Zoo Lights, holiday displays at the Arboretum, and an afternoon exploring the Dallas Farmers Market or Fort Worth Stockyards.
Then extend the weekend into Monday with holiday attractions, activities for younger children, an immersive Harry Potter experience, or sunset views from Reunion Tower.
However you spend it, November 13–16 is a great weekend to get out and explore DFW as the holiday season begins!
Event Links
Dallas Zoo Lights – Dallas Zoo
https://www.dallaszoo.com/event/lights/
ICE! Featuring Harry Potter – Gaylord Texan Resort
https://www.christmasatgaylordtexan.com/
Holiday at the Arboretum
https://www.dallasarboretum.org/
All You Can Eataly: Après Holiday
https://www.eataly.com/us_en/stores/dallas
Late Night at the Museum – Dallas Museum of Art
https://dma.org/
Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live – Dickies Arena
https://dickiesarena.com/
Bruce Wood Dance Dallas
https://www.brucewooddance.org/
The BOE Exhibition Receptions – The Cedars Union
https://www.cedarsunion.org/
The Trains at NorthPark
https://www.thetrainsatnorthpark.com/
Dallas Cowboys vs. San Francisco 49ers
https://www.dallascowboys.com/schedule/
TCU Football
https://gofrogs.com/
Ryan Bingham – Billy Bob’s Texas
https://billybobstexas.com/events/
Frozen: The Broadway Musical – Casa Mañana
https://www.casamanana.org/
Yule Log Decorating – Dallas Arboretum
https://www.dallasarboretum.org/events-activities/calendar/
Upcycle Market – Dallas Farmers Market
https://dallasfarmersmarket.org/
Dallas’ Best Tacos & Margaritas Tour
https://www.visitdallas.com/events/
Opera Arlington – Recuerdos
https://www.operaarlington.org/
From the Saddle to Symphony Hall – Will Rogers Auditorium
https://www.fortworth.com/events/
Fort Worth Stockyards
https://www.fortworthstockyards.org/
Little Adventurers & Dallas College Cooks
https://www.dallasarboretum.org/events-activities/calendar/
Harry Potter in Shared Reality – Cosm
https://www.cosm.com/
Dallas Arts District
https://www.dallasartsdistrict.org/
Reunion Tower GeO-Deck
https://reuniontower.com/
More Dallas Events
https://www.visitdallas.com/events/
More Fort Worth Events
https://www.fortworth.com/events/
Event schedules, admission details, and ticket availability are subject to change. Confirm information with each organizer before attending.