Dallas winters rarely see snow, so in the weeks leading up to Christmas and New Year’s, only spectacular public celebrations can deliver that festive spirit, transforming the city into a genuine winter wonderland. Charity drives, parades, and concerts set the stage, inviting locals to step into a magical world. Read more at dallaski.
Why Dallas Families Prefer to Celebrate Christmas at Home
For most households in Dallas, Christmas is a strictly family affair. Instead of noisy parties and large gatherings, many opt for a cozy dinner with close relatives.
Passed down through generations, the tradition is to gather on Christmas Eve with parents and nearest kin. Families decorate their homes and trees, prepare holiday dishes, share stories, and simply relax. The celebration officially begins with midnight Mass, after which everyone sits down for the festive meal. The gift exchange is another highlight, and children eagerly eye the packages under the tree weeks in advance.
Christmas Charity Event Hosted by the Dallas Mavericks
The Dallas Mavericks have become synonymous with holiday generosity. For years, the team has hosted a festive evening for children from the local Vogel Alcove shelter.
Weeks before the holidays, players collect wish lists from the kids, handpick gifts, and secure a venue. In 2022, guard Josh Green surprised one girl with her first four-wheeled bike and helmet—and then personally taught her to ride. The event also features a Santa visit, storytime, and a small spread of gingerbread cookies and tea, creating a warm, intimate setting where children can feel the true Christmas spirit and meet their heroes.
Anyone can join the celebration, so the evening attracts not only the children and their guardians but also volunteers, activists, journalists, and other caring citizens.
Dallas Holiday Parade: The Season’s Largest Parade
In 1987, Hotel Adolph and the Dallas Children’s Medical Center celebrated their shared 75th anniversary and decided to launch a parade to kick off the holiday season and unite the community. On December 3, 1988, the inaugural “Miracle on Commerce Street” drew over 70,000 spectators in its first year.
Today known as the Dallas Holiday Parade, it marches along Commerce Street every first Saturday in December. Hundreds of sponsors work each year to make the parade better than ever. Admission is free, though premium grandstand tickets offer the best views.
Reunion Tower New Year’s Celebration: The City’s Main New Year’s Eve Event
Reunion Tower, the city’s iconic 561-foot landmark, becomes the centerpiece of a spectacular New Year’s Eve show featuring over 5,000 pyrotechnic effects, 300 LED lights, and an equal number of drones.
Viewing near the tower is restricted, so many book tables at nearby venues like Crown Block Dining and Hyatt Regency Dallas Dining at the Hyatt Regency, as well as Virgin Hotel Dallas, HQ Dallas Rooftop, Alamo Drafthouse Cedars, and Chet’s Dallas. Others watch the live broadcast on NBC5-KXAS or via Reunion Tower’s official social media channels.
A Refined Celebration with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra
For those seeking an elegant New Year’s Eve, the Dallas Symphony Orchestra revives the Viennese New Year tradition dating back to the early 1900s. The concert starts at 8:00 p.m. on December 31 and runs for one hour, offering live music and champagne in formal attire.
After the performance, many head to Tei-An, a nearby Japanese restaurant, to continue the celebration, while others choose to ring in the New Year at home.
Sporting Events Leading up to the New Year
In the weeks before New Year’s, Dallas hosts a variety of marathons and fun runs. Mild winter weather makes outdoor exercise popular, and many of these events raise funds for local charities—offering a chance to stay healthy while supporting community causes.
One highlight is the New Year’s Day 5K & Fun Run on the Santa Fe Trail, featuring a 5K race and a one-mile walk. Winners receive a medal and commemorative sweatshirt, and participants can refuel at White Rock Alehouse & Brewery.
Another signature event is the New Year’s Eve Loop-the-Lake Run. Held annually on December 31 at 8:00 a.m., this 10-mile loop attracts early risers. All proceeds benefit Marathon Kids, and over the past 20 years, the run has raised $140,000 for charity.