Holidays at the Heard
Visitors take an evening walk along a half-mile nature trail illuminated with holiday lights and festive décor, passing the Dinosaurs Live! exhibit along the way. The event features live musical performances at the outdoor amphitheater, visits with Santa, and opportunities to talk to North Pole elves over amateur radio. Guests can also enjoy seasonal treats and shopping from local food, beverage, and gift vendors.
What to Expect
Holiday lights along a half-mile nature sanctuary trail.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Organizer
Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary
Food & Drink
Food and beverage vendors are part of the event, and hot cocoa is mentioned alongside the live music.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with children
Vibe
Festive and nature-focused
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Heard members: adults and seniors $5; children ages 3–12 $5; children ages 2 and under free. Non-members: adults and seniors $17; children ages 3–12 $14. Children ages 2 and under are admitted free and receive a complimentary pass. Members may purchase up to 20 tickets at the member rate; the member offer does not apply to reciprocal general admission agreements. – Get tickets
- Hours: Event: 6 P.M. – 9 P.M.; Santa: each night from 6:30–8 p.m.
- Parking: Onsite parking is limited. A complimentary shuttle is provided on the event nights from Puster Elementary, 856 Stoddard Rd, Fairview, TX 75069; shuttle hours are 5:50 p.m.–9 p.m. The page advises allowing extra time and checking whether parking is available in the main lot before going to the shuttle. Parking is in lots behind and in front of the school; do not park in the bus drive-through lane or undesignated areas such as grass.
- Accessibility: Dedicated spaces for handicapped parking are available.
Tips & Advice
- Buy tickets online ahead of time, since door sales last only while supplies last and phone orders cannot be taken.
- Bring the e-tickets from the second confirmation email for check-in, and look in your spam folder if that email does not show up.
- Check the main lot first, then allow extra time for the shuttle from Puster Elementary in Fairview, since onsite parking is limited.
- Arrive at least an hour before the event ends, because last admissions stop before closing and your ticket gets you in only as time allows.
- Bundle up the family and bring a camera for this nighttime hike through the woods, which includes photos with Santa.
Special Events & Promotions
- Cheap, Fast and Easy performs on December 12; The Coppertones play festive classics on December 13 and 14.
- Santa is scheduled to appear each event night from 6:30 to 8 p.m.
- Heard members can purchase up to 20 tickets at the member rate; reciprocal general-admission agreements do not apply.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do children need their own ticket?
Yes, every child needs a ticket. Kids 2 and under get in free with a complimentary pass. Anyone 18 and under must come with an adult.
Where do we park?
Onsite parking is limited, so check the main lot first. If it's full, park at Puster Elementary in Fairview and take the free event shuttle. Use the lots behind and in front of the school, not the bus drive-through lane or the grass.
What happens if the weather is bad?
If the weather isn't safe, the Heard will try to offer another date. You can also swap your event ticket for general admission. Reply to your confirmation email or email info@heardmuseum.org with your name and order number.
Can we buy tickets at the door?
Yes, while supplies last. Buying online in advance is recommended to guarantee a spot. Phone orders aren't accepted.
Will we see the dinosaurs?
You'll get a glimpse of the Dinosaurs Live! exhibit along the trail. The dinosaurs aren't animated during the event.
More Christmas Events Near McKinney
More Christmas Events near McKinney
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.