A Festive Fort Worth

MARKETS, MUSIC, AND MAGICAL MOMENTS FOR EVERYONE

By Annette Brooks

Blending its cowboy heritage with a festive modern flair, Fort Worth offers an array of activities that capture the essence of Christmas. From twinkling lights to parades and markets that evoke a sense of togetherness, joy, and wonder, Fort Worth is an ideal destination to create lasting memories with friends and family this holiday season.

‘TIS THE SEASON

Downtown Fort Worth sparkles with holiday magic in Sundance Square, where the season comes alive under a canopy of lights. The plaza’s towering Christmas tree serves as a dazzling centerpiece, surrounded by festive decor, live music, and bustling holiday energy. The annual tree lighting traditionally takes place in late November or early December, signaling the start of the season. Visitors can browse seasonal pop-up markets, sip hot cocoa from local vendors, enjoy cozy horse-drawn carriage rides through the decorated streets, and take photos during visits with Santa. Check SundanceSquare.com for more details on upcoming holiday events.

The annual Christmas in the Stockyards event turns the area into a holiday wonderland that includes a sparkling ice rink, live music filling the air with seasonal tunes, story time with Mrs. Claus, and photo opportunities with Cowboy Santa. Visit FortWorthStockyards.org for more information about this year’s festivities.

Light Up The Night

Downtown Fort Worth amps up the magic with the GM Financial Parade of Lights on November 23, 2025, kicking off at 6 PM. This beloved spectacle features illuminated floats, marching bands, and equestrian units parading through the streets under the theme “SPARKLE, DAZZLE, SHINE!” The parade is free for all to attend, but for those who prefer reserved seating and the best views, “Street Seats” are available for purchase starting at $15.75. Following the parade, stick around for holiday choir concerts in the plaza or indulge in sweet treats or enjoy dinner at nearby spots. Head over to FortWorthparadeoflights.org for more information.

The 120-acre Fort Worth Botanic Garden will host Lightscape again this year. Curated for Fort Worth, Lightscape illuminates the botanic garden with over one million holiday lights. Twinkling custom-designed installations come to life after dark, choreographed to holiday-themed music. Enjoy s’more-roasting, hot cocoa, holiday music, and photo opportunities with Santa Claus. Visit FWBG.org for more details about the 2025 event.

HOLIDAY MAGIC RESORT-STYLE

For even more holiday fun and cheer, venture slightly outside Fort Worth to visit Grapevine, dubbed the “Christmas Capital of Texas.” Here, the Gaylord Texan Resort offers ice skating, snow tubing, and a mesmerizing light show, alongside festive markets and music that amplify the holiday experience with elaborate decorations and family-oriented activities like ICE! Featuring cool creations from beloved scenes from the holiday classic Elf. Visit ChristmasAtGaylordTexan. marriott.com for more information.

A Merry Market

If you love one-of-a-kind, artisanal finds, explore the Clearfolk Holiday Market on December 6, 2025. Open from 9 AM-3 PM, shop farmers market vendors plus 50+ artisan and craft vendors, offering unique, locally made gifts and goodies. FortWorth.com/event/the-clearfork-holiday-market/37906

Photos: Adobe, Downtown Fort Worth, Inc., Gaylord Texan