This holiday season, the Dallas-Fort Worth (D-FW) area has received accolades as a prime warm-weather travel destination, ranking No. 3 in WalletHub’s recent compilation of the best holiday spots. WalletHub’s study emphasizes cost and convenience over scenic beauty, analyzing data from 70 major metropolitan areas. Factors such as flight accessibility, safety statistics, and weather forecasts were considered in the analysis. D-FW’s appeal not only stands out on its own, but is also complemented by nearby Austin, which was ranked No. 4, while Houston and San Antonio claimed the No. 6 and No. 11 spots, respectively. For those seeking a chilly experience, Atlanta and New York topped the cold-weather destination list. Analyst Chip Lupo highlighted that affordable flights from major U.S. cities to leading travel destinations often range from $200 to $300, making holiday getaways more accessible than ever.
D-FW’s vibrant holiday landscape offers numerous festive activities that promise a delightful experience for families and visitors. One of the highlights is the play “Twas the Night Before Christmas” at the Casa Manana Theatre in Fort Worth, which runs from November 29 until December 23. The play narrates the adventures of a girl named Molly and her mother as they embark on an enchanting treasure hunt in New York City, filled with dancing elves and encounters with Santa. The Clearfork Holiday Market, also in Fort Worth, provides a platform for local vendors to showcase seasonal produce, desserts, and other artisanal goods throughout the day on December 7. Meanwhile, the Christmas in the Stockyards event offers a plethora of activities such as an ice rink, photos with Cowboy Santa, and a holiday parade on December 2, creating a festive atmosphere in the historic stockyards.
Another exciting holiday entertainment option is “A Magical Cirque Christmas,” scheduled for November 21 at Music Hall at Fair Park, featuring world-class entertainers performing beloved holiday music. Additionally, the renowned Texas Ballet Theatre will present “The Nutcracker” at both the Winspear Opera House in Dallas and Bass Performance Hall in Fort Worth. The shows will include various performance times from late November through late December, offering families the opportunity to engage in delightful pre-show festivities. The Dallas Children’s Theatre will also bring “A Charlie Brown Christmas” to its stage, providing a long-time holiday favorite for audiences to enjoy from November 23 to December 22. These performances add a rich cultural element to the D-FW holiday experience.
For those traveling from afar or planning a festive staycation, the Dallas-Fort Worth area is home to a range of hotels that enhance the holiday spirit. The Hilton Anatole, with rates averaging around $150 per night, features holiday attractions like Breakfast with Santa and a Christmas tree maze. Another popular option, the Fairmont Dallas, offers holiday experiences for families such as letter-writing to Santa and themed brunches for around $175 to $200 a night. The high-end Hotel Drover provides a unique holiday experience with a tree lighting event and offers luxurious accommodations ranging from $400 to $700 per night. Meanwhile, the Omni Fort Worth features whiskey tastings and cocktail classes, contributing to the overall festive atmosphere and experience within the hospitality sector.
The culinary scene during the holidays in D-FW does not disappoint, with several restaurants open on Christmas Day offering festive dining options. The Polar Bear Room at Mercat Bistro, available from November 20 to January 5, invites guests for a themed meal experience with polar bear dancers. With an average price range of $30 to $50 per person, it offers a unique dining setting for families. The Zodiac Room at Neiman Marcus, a long-time favorite for holiday meals, features a buffet experience that carries a similar price point, embodying holiday glamor at its finest. Additionally, the Drover’s 97 West restaurant will welcome patrons over the holiday season for Thanksgiving and Christmas meals, presenting a holiday menu that appeals to diverse tastes, all within the same price range.
Finally, Toro Toro at the Renaissance Worthington Hotel offers a festive brunch and dinner on Christmas Day, maintaining holiday cheer through culinary experiences. With meals priced from $30 to $50 per person, Toro Toro serves a full menu, emphasizing prime rib and other delicacies that are sure to be crowd-pleasers. With a range of holiday activities, accommodations, and dining options, Dallas-Fort Worth presents an enticing destination for holiday celebrations, encouraging families and travelers to consider a festive getaway or a cozy staycation to capture the spirit of the season.
