Grapevine doesn’t do Christmas halfway. The city holds a trademark on the title “Christmas Capital of Texas,” and each year it packs more than 1,400 holiday events into about 40 days, from a vintage train ride with Santa to a lighted parade down Historic Main Street.
Grapevine sits right next to DFW Airport, about 25 to 30 minutes from both downtown Dallas and downtown Fort Worth. The 2026 season kicks off Monday, Nov. 23, and some of the most popular tickets are already on sale, so now is the time to plan.
Season kickoff: Carol of Lights, Nov. 23
The season officially opens Monday, Nov. 23, 2026, with the 38th annual Carol of Lights on Historic Main Street, according to the Grapevine Convention & Visitors Bureau. It’s the night the town flips the switch on its holiday lights, with music and plenty of hometown cheer. Arrive early for a good spot, since Main Street fills up fast.
Santa’s North Pole Express
This is the one families plan their whole season around. Grapevine Vintage Railroad’s Santa’s North Pole Express takes riders aboard restored 1920s-era coaches for Christmas singalongs, visits from elves and time with Santa himself.
For 2026, excursions run from Nov. 27, the day after Thanksgiving, through Dec. 30, per the city’s Christmas Capital of Texas ticket page. Most trains leave from the Cotton Belt depot at 705 S. Main Street in Grapevine. On Thursday, Dec. 3, the train instead runs special excursions from the Fort Worth Stockyards.
Tickets went on sale Oct. 1, and they’re sold online only. These trips have a reputation for selling out quickly, so if you have your heart set on a certain date, don’t wait. Prices vary by day and time; check the ticket page for current fares. ADA seating can be booked by phone at 817-410-3557.
Parade of Lights, Dec. 3
The 47th annual Parade of Lights rolls down Historic Main Street on Thursday, Dec. 3, 2026. Organizers describe a lineup of about 100 lighted floats and marching bands, with Santa riding on the final float. Bring lawn chairs and a blanket, bundle up the kids, and plan to get there early to claim a curbside spot.
More signature events and attractions
- Merry & Bright Christmas Drone Show: A free drone light show over Historic Main Street. The city’s site lists a show on Monday, Dec. 7, at 7 p.m.; confirm the date as it gets closer.
- Christmas Wine Trains: Two-hour adult train rides with Texas wine tastings and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus, scheduled for Nov. 20 and Dec. 10 and 17. The city’s ticket page currently shows these at capacity.
- ICE! featuring Harry Potter at Gaylord Texan: The resort’s famous hand-carved ice exhibit takes on a Harry Potter theme this year and runs Nov. 13, 2026, through Jan. 3, 2027.
- Peace Plaza Ice Rink: An outdoor skating rink next to a towering live Christmas tree downtown. Check the city’s site for dates and session times.
- Historic Palace Theatre: Classic Christmas movies and holiday concerts at the downtown Palace and Palace Arts Center.
- Nash Farm: The city’s historic farm hosts a Victorian Christmas celebration and a handmade Christmas market.
Tips for planning your visit
- Buy early: Most ticketed Christmas Capital events went on sale Oct. 1. Popular dates for the North Pole Express and wine trains go first.
- Pick a weeknight: Main Street is busiest on weekends and parade night. A weeknight stroll is easier with little ones or anyone who has trouble with crowds.
- Start at the visitor center: The Grapevine Visitor Information Center at 636 S. Main Street (817-410-3185) can help with schedules, parking and maps.
- Remember the reason: Between the lights and the trains, it’s worth pausing to take in a nativity scene, a candlelight carol or a church service along the way.
Good to Know
- Where: Grapevine, Tarrant County, about 25–30 minutes from both Dallas and Fort Worth, next to DFW Airport.
- Season: Starts Monday, Nov. 23, 2026, and runs about 40 days.
- Carol of Lights: Nov. 23, Historic Main Street.
- Santa’s North Pole Express: Nov. 27–Dec. 30; departs 705 S. Main St. (Fort Worth Stockyards on Dec. 3). Tickets online only.
- Parade of Lights: Thursday, Dec. 3, Historic Main Street.
- ICE! at Gaylord Texan: Nov. 13, 2026–Jan. 3, 2027.
Hours, dates and prices can change. Check the official website before you head out.
Grapevine has spent decades earning its Christmas reputation, and it shows. Pick an event or two, book your tickets early, and make a little holiday magic with the people you love this year.
Featured photo: Stefan Bethke via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0.
