Holidays at the Dallas Arboretum are a special, magical time! Come during the day to see the magnificent exhibits, but the 12 Days at Night are truly incredible! Named as the Texas’ Best Holiday Event by Southern Living, the 12 Days of Christmas and Holidays in the Arboretum run from November 9 – December 31st, with the new Christmas Village and the Musical Tree! You’ll also find tons of special events and activities throughout the season, including live music.
I’m going to tell a little about myself on this. Last year we attended during the day, and I spent all season telling everyone how much better it is than in the evening. Then we attended in the evening last night, and really, the lights are just magical! It’s spectacular. And I realize that this is something I do pretty much every year, flip-flopping back and forth on my favorite time to visit! Which really tells you A) I’m a little flaky. and B) there’s no better time to visit!
The Musical Tree sits overlooking White Rock Lake, and it is just amazing! Take a blanket and spread out on the lawn to just enjoy the sights and sounds! Don’t forget to pack some snacks and drinks, too. Here’s a fun tip, you can bring in a bottle of wine, etc. into the Gardens, too. Date Nights don’t get any better.
My kid’s favorite sweet treat is a frozen banana, so he was a happy guy last night! My husband and I shared the chocolate dipped pickle. What in the World!!! I just love trying new things, and it helps when they are delicious!
However I am not a coffee drinker, so what is this?? Charcoal Mocha, made from coconut shells!! Is this really a thing? But I’m going to tell you it must be delicious because the line was SO long!!! Next time!
The Holiday Village is just really incredible, too! Of course, Santa was there speaking with all the good little boys and girls, but I’m pretty sure my husband has been on the naughty list for years so we just kept on walking.
Now check out my pics from our daytime visit last year.
Each of the 12 gazebos corresponds to one of the verses of the 12 Days of Christmas.
The Holiday Village offers fun photo ops, concessions and a chance to meet St. Nick himself!
There is also live music and more entertainment. Click HERE to see their calendar.
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Christmas in the Arboretum
During Christmas, the Arboretum displays 12 magical gazebos, each displaying a scene from the Christmas carol, The 12 Days of Christmas.
The DeGoyer House also has a special presentation of a collection of nativity scenes from around the world.
On select days, the gardens offer live music, presentations, visits with Santa and more!
A Few More Tips:
Daytime prices do not change, but evening prices do. Sun – Tue. is the least expensive. Check the calendar for events before you purchase your ticket, as some events do not happen nightly.
Parking in Lot 4 is a fun experience for kids, because the pedestrian wall from the Parking Garage takes you under Garland Rd.. You’ll come out at the entrance for the Arboretum next to the entrance for the Children’s Adventure Garden, which is closed in the evenings. You can just backtrack from here, doing the Musical Tree first, then the Christmas Village and finally the 12 Days of Christmas in order, if that’s something that matters to you. Otherwise, go ahead and be a rebel and count down the days!
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On select nights you will find music being played in the garden!
More To Do Near the Dallas Arboretum
If you’re going in the morning, head down to Hypnotic Donuts just North of the Arboretum on Garland Rd. Amazing donuts and I love their chicken and biscuit sandwiches. Closed Monday and Tuesday.
The Smoky Rose is my go-to for a bite to eat after the Arboretum! The chicken-fried brisket is my recommendation, moist, tender and so flavorful!
After your visit, be sure to head down to the Swiss Avenue Historic District to see the Christmas lights on the beautiful old mansions!
Lakewood is home to the Lakewood Theater and you can find plenty of great places to eat in the Lakewood Shopping Center.
Electric Lizzyland (from The Great Christmas Light Fight) is an incredible Christmas Lights display in Lakewood! Click HERE to visit her facebook page for updates.
Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens
8525 Garland Road, Dallas
Click HERE to visit their website.
Keep Having Fun in the Texas Sun!
Michelle
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