Ready to experience the joy of the holidays in McKinney? Let our guide lead the way. Whether you're a McKinney native or a curious explorer, this guide illuminates the city's festive charm.
The McKinney Christmas Tree Lighting is a highlight, bringing families together to witness the sparkle of the season. Characterized by its colorful floats and vibrant performances, the Dallas Holiday Parade creates a magical atmosphere that will captivate any audience. And Dickens in Downtown Plano is something you definitely don't want to miss, transforming the area into a Victorian wonderland. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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The Top Christmas Events in McKinney
See these and even more events listed below!McKinney Holiday Light Displays
McKinney Christmas Tree Lighting
What to Expect:
Community-driven lighting ceremony with local performances
Description:
McKinney's annual Christmas Tree Lighting transforms the historic downtown square into a twinkling spectacle. Local choirs and dance troupes perform, showcasing the city's vibrant arts scene. Visitors can create personalized ornaments at craft stations, adding their touch to the community tree. This tradition dates back to the early 1900s when McKinney first installed electric streetlights. The event embodies the spirit of togetherness, uniting residents and visitors in a shared moment of joy as the switch is flipped, illuminating the square with thousands of sparkling lights.
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McKinney Christmas Tree Lighting
Nearby Events
Dallas Holiday Parade (Dallas)
What to Expect:
Largest one-day outdoor event in Dallas
Description:
The Dallas Holiday Parade bursts with energy as it winds through downtown, captivating over 450,000 spectators. Elaborate floats, towering balloons, and marching bands fill the streets with vibrant colors and lively tunes. You'll marvel at the intricate designs inspired by Dallas' rich cultural heritage. This parade, originating in 1988, has grown into a cherished tradition that kicks off the holiday season in grand Texas style. Spectators can participate in the "Best Viewing Spot" contest, sharing their prime locations on social media for a chance to win prizes.
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Dickens in Downtown Plano (Plano)
What to Expect:
Victorian-era themed Christmas celebration
Description:
Plano's historic downtown leaps back in time, recreating the ambiance of Charles Dickens' beloved stories. Costumed characters roam the streets, bringing 19th-century London to life in the heart of Texas. The air fills with the aroma of roasted chestnuts, transporting visitors to a bygone era. Guests can try their hand at traditional Victorian crafts, learning skills that have nearly vanished in our modern age. This event pays homage to Plano's own history, which dates back to the 1840s, blending local heritage with literary tradition.
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The Trains at NorthPark (Dallas)
What to Expect:
Elaborate miniature train display benefiting a children's advocacy center
Description:
The Trains at NorthPark dazzles visitors with its intricate miniature landscapes spanning from coast to coast. Over 750 railcars traverse more than 1,600 feet of track, weaving through tiny recreations of American landmarks. This exhibit supports the Ronald McDonald House of Dallas, combining holiday cheer with charitable giving. You can spot hidden details within the display, turning your visit into an engaging scavenger hunt. The tradition began in 1987, growing from a small exhibit to a beloved Dallas institution that has raised millions for children in need.
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Frisco Christmas in the Square (Frisco)
What to Expect:
Choreographed light show synchronized to holiday music
Description:
Frisco's Christmas in the Square electrifies the night with a stunning choreographed light display. Over 175,000 lights dance in perfect synchronization to holiday tunes, creating a mesmerizing audio-visual experience. Visitors can glide across the outdoor ice skating rink, surrounded by the glow of twinkling lights. This event showcases Frisco's commitment to innovation, blending technology with holiday traditions. Since its inception in 2004, the celebration has grown to become the largest choreographed holiday lights and music show in North Texas.
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Frisco Christmas in the Square
Holiday Wonder at Fair Park (Dallas)
What to Expect:
Fusion of Western and Eastern holiday traditions
Description:
Holiday Wonder at Fair Park presents a unique fusion of Western and Eastern holiday celebrations. Towering lantern displays illuminate the night, showcasing intricate designs inspired by both cultures. Visitors can wander through a glowing forest of illuminated trees, each telling a story through light and color. The event pays homage to Fair Park's art deco architecture, incorporating elements of this distinctive style into its displays. You'll discover how different cultures around the world celebrate the winter season, broadening your perspective on holiday traditions.
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Vitruvian Lights (Addison)
What to Expect:
Walkable park with over 1.5 million LED lights
Description:
Vitruvian Lights transforms Addison's Vitruvian Park into a luminous wonderland with over 1.5 million LED lights. The park's trees come alive, their branches adorned with colorful illuminations that reflect off the central lake. Visitors can stroll along winding paths, immersed in a sea of twinkling lights. This event showcases Addison's commitment to public art and green spaces, turning the park into a living canvas. The name "Vitruvian" pays homage to Leonardo da Vinci's famous drawing, symbolizing the perfect blend of art and science in this dazzling display.
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Watters Creek Christmas Celebration (Allen)
What to Expect:
Santa arrives by horse-drawn carriage
Description:
Watters Creek Christmas Celebration kicks off with Santa's grand entrance in a horse-drawn carriage, harking back to Allen's rural roots. The creek-side setting provides a picturesque backdrop for holiday festivities, with twinkling lights reflecting off the water. Visitors can participate in a holiday scavenger hunt throughout the shopping center, discovering hidden treasures. This event celebrates Allen's transformation from a small farming community to a thriving suburb, blending modern amenities with small-town charm. You'll experience the warmth of community spirit as local businesses and residents come together to create a joyful atmosphere.
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Watters Creek Christmas Celebration
Dallas Zoo Lights (Dallas)
What to Expect:
Holiday lights display integrated with zoo exhibits
Description:
Dallas Zoo Lights reimagines the zoo after dark, blending wildlife conservation with holiday cheer. Illuminated animal sculptures guide visitors along a mile-long path, showcasing both exotic and native Texas species. The event highlights the zoo's commitment to education and conservation, with light displays telling stories of endangered animals. Visitors can decorate cookies in the shape of their favorite zoo animals, combining creativity with wildlife appreciation. Founded in 1888, the Dallas Zoo is the oldest and largest zoological park in Texas, making this holiday celebration a unique part of Dallas history.
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Lights on The Farm at The Heritage Farmstead Museum (Plano)
What to Expect:
Historical farm setting with period-appropriate decorations
Description:
Lights on The Farm at The Heritage Farmstead Museum transports visitors to a 1920s Texas Christmas. The Victorian-era Farrell-Wilson house and surrounding buildings glow with warm lights, decorated as they would have been a century ago. Visitors can dip candles using traditional methods, experiencing a hands-on connection to history. The event showcases Plano's agricultural heritage, offering a glimpse into holiday celebrations of the past. You'll hear the gentle sounds of horse-drawn wagon rides, adding to the authentic atmosphere of this living history experience.
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Lights on The Farm at The Heritage Farmstead Museum
Enchant Christmas (Arlington)
What to Expect:
World's largest light maze
Description:
Enchant Christmas in Arlington boasts the world's largest light maze, challenging visitors to navigate through a twinkling labyrinth. Towering light sculptures create an immersive environment, transporting guests into a story-book adventure. Visitors can glide across the ice skating trail, winding through the heart of the event. This celebration showcases Arlington's status as an entertainment destination, building on its reputation for hosting large-scale events. You'll discover hidden themes within the maze, each year featuring a new story brought to life through millions of sparkling lights.