Top Things To Do in Grand Prairie, TX on Christmas Week
- Emily Kreiss
- 1 day ago
- 8 min read
The city of Grand Prairie, Texas, nestled between Dallas and Fort Worth, offers a terrific mix of family-friendly entertainment, outdoor recreation, shopping, and holiday magic during the Christmas season. Whether you’re visiting for the week or live locally and want to take advantage of the festive atmosphere, here are ten great activities to consider during Christmas week.
1. Visit Prairie Lights at Lynn Creek Park
One of the most iconic seasonal experiences in Grand Prairie is Prairie Lights – a drive-through (and partially walk-through) holiday light park at Lynn Creek Park on Joe Pool Lake. The display features 4 million lights over about 2-miles of road and hundreds of new shapes and arches.
Why it’s a must-do
It’s immersive - lights arch overhead, there’s a “walk-thru forest” of displays, and a dedicated holiday village with concessions, carnival rides and photos with Santa.
The event is timed to cover Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve, so Christmas week is right in the sweet spot of festive ambience.
Great for families, couples, and anyone looking for memorable holiday photo opportunities with minimal travel outside the DFW area.
Planning Tips
Purchase tickets in advance (especially for peak nights during Christmas week) to secure entry.
Dress warmly - while you’ll be in your car for much of it, the walk-through parts can be chilly.
Consider making it part of an evening outing: go through the light display, stop for a hot drink at the village, and enjoy the ride home by the lake.
2. Explore Downtown’s “Main Street Magic” holiday happenings
Grand Prairie’s downtown has a robust seasonal program branded “Main Street Magic” that covers light displays, vendor markets, parades, and more.
Why it’s special
You’ll find things like a holiday craft fair, local vendors, lawn displays and a friendly walkable downtown environment with a holiday vibe.
The tree lighting and lighted holiday parade give off a classic small-town Christmas feel right in the metro area.
Great for combining a shopping outing, a stroll with the family and holiday treats.
Planning Tips
Check the exact schedule for the week you plan to visit - some events may occur just before Christmas week, but the décor and vendor markets remain active.
Bring cash/credit for vendor markets if you’d like to pick up local crafts or holiday goodies.
Park in downtown and walk - traffic may be heavier during peak holiday evenings.
3. Shopping spree at Grand Prairie Premium Outlets
If you’re looking to check off gifts during Christmas week, the Grand Prairie Premium Outlets are a top choice. The site lists more than 100 stores with brand-name bargains.
Why it’s valuable
Great variety of stores means you can cover multiple gift categories (fashion, accessories, electronics, etc).
Being in Grand Prairie means you don’t need to fight downtown Dallas holiday traffic - relatively convenient access in the DFW metro.
Can be paired with other nearby activities for a full holiday outing.
Planning Tips
Go early in the day, especially if you want shorter walking lines and easier parking.
Bring a shopping list and budget to avoid “holiday impulse overload”.
If you’re with kids, identify a “make-it fun” stop (e.g., hot cocoa, snack) so everyone enjoys the outing.
4. Family entertainment at Andretti Indoor Karting & Games & surrounding Complex
For indoor fun - especially helpful if the weather is not ideal or you want a non-traditional holiday outing - Andretti Indoor Karting & Games is a top pick in Grand Prairie.
What makes it a good holiday option
Go-kart racing, laser tag, arcade, VR experiences: indoor experiences mean you’re not weather-dependent.
Suitable for kids, teens, or multi-generational groups - makes for a lively holiday outing.
Combine with a nice dinner nearby and prolong your time out.
Planning Tips
Check for holiday week hours - some venues reduce hours or have special holiday pricing.
Book ahead for group sessions if you’re going with a larger family or gathering.
Consider arriving earlier in the day when energy is high (kids may tire by evening).
5. Ice skating or synthetic ice options + outdoor stroll
While Grand Prairie may not have a permanent large outdoor ice rink (as of this writing), the holiday season still makes it worth planning a festive outdoor stroll, especially around waterfront areas like Epic Central and Joe Pool Lake, followed by cozy indoor activities if needed.
Why include it
Evening lighting around waterfronts and parks adds a serene holiday ambiance.
Good break if you need to slow down between high-energy activities.
Opportunity for memorable photos of the family in a festive, less crowded setting.
Planning Tips
Bring a light jacket (December evenings can be brisk).
Choose a park with amenities (restrooms, warming spots) if you plan a longer stay.
Time it around sunset for best lighting conditions.
Holiday week is a perfect time to catch a live show - perhaps a musical, kids’ show or holiday special - at one of Grand Prairie’s theatre venues. The Uptown Theater and Texas Trust CU Theatre frequently host community and touring events.
Why it works
Indoors, climate-controlled: comfort for all ages.
Creates a memorable “special” outing around the holidays.
Often aligned with holiday themes (e.g., musicals, children’s shows) so you get festive programming.
Planning Tips
Check the theatre calendar ahead of time for holiday week slots.
Book seats early - popular holiday shows may sell out.
Arrive a bit early to enjoy lobby activities or holiday photos (many venues decorate heavily).
7. Local holiday markets and craft fairs
Aside from traditional malls and outlets, consider spending time at local craft fairs or holiday vendor markets in Grand Prairie during Christmas week. For instance: the “Grand Holiday Craft Fair” listed for early December but similar markets may still be active.
Why it's attractive
Unique, locally-made gift items you won’t find at big-box stores.
Often include perks like hot cocoa, photos with Santa, and family-friendly flair.
Manages to feel festive without being overwhelming.
Planning Tips
Bring a tote or reusable bag - great for carrying smaller items from multiple vendors.
If looking for specific items (e.g., handcrafted jewelry, ornaments) check vendor lists in advance.
Arrive earlier in the day for fewer crowds and best selection.
8. Outdoor nature break at Loyd Park on Joe Pool Lake
For those looking to slow things down and enjoy some fresh air during the hectic holiday week, Loyd Park offers scenic views, lakeside trails, and picnic areas that can provide a peaceful interlude.
Why it's a smart inclusion
A nature-based outing helps balance out shopping, lights, and indoor venues.
Less crowded during weekdays of Christmas week (depending on weather) than peak summer days.
Opportunity for memorable holiday photos in a natural setting (especially around sunset).
Planning Tips
Check park hours and any weather advisories (wind on lakes can affect conditions).
Bring layered clothing (evenings can drop in temperature).
Arrive with snacks or a thermos - picnic style can amplify the outing.
9. Holiday meal or brunch with family/friends
One of the simplest yet most meaningful ways to enjoy Christmas week in Grand Prairie is to book a memorable holiday meal - either brunch or dinner - with family or friends at a local restaurant. While this may be less “event-based” it’s often the heart of the holiday experience.
Why include this
Breaks up the “go-go-go” of outings with meaningful connection time.
Many restaurants decorate for the holidays and offer special menus.
It allows for flexibility: morning brunch for younger kids, dinner for older groups.
Planning Tips
Make reservations early - holiday week may increase demand.
Ask about holiday-themed menu items (e.g., seasonal desserts, festive cocktails).
Consider a restaurant near one of the other experiences (lights, downtown stroll, shopping) to combine into an outing.
Finally, simply making time in the evening to drive or stroll through neighborhoods, lakeside roads or downtown areas to absorb the holiday lighting and ambiance is a magic move. Grand Prairie has multiple spots including the brighter displays downtown and near Joe Pool Lake.
Why it rounds out your week
It’s low-cost but high-impact: memorable scenes, family photos, festive ambience.
Ideal as an “after-dinner” activity to cap off one of the busier days.
It gives a moment to pause and reflect - holiday lights, music, the glow of the season.
Planning Tips
Bring a camera/phone tripod or ask someone to take the family photo in front of a display.
Choose a route ahead of time to maximize scenery - consider combining the drive to Lynn Creek or the waterfront for reflections etc.
If cold, have warm drinks in the car or stop for hot chocolate on the way home.
Bonus cover-all practical tips for Christmas week in Grand Prairie
Check event & venue hours: Some facilities may adjust hours for holiday week or be closed on Christmas Day.
Traffic & parking: Especially for the lights and downtown events, parking may fill early; arrive ahead of time.
Weather: December in DFW can vary - cooling evenings mean layers or a light jacket are wise.
Ticketing: For major attractions (like Prairie Lights) or special shows, buy ahead and confirm dates.
Dining reservations: Holiday week means many families plan ahead - make reservations if you have a specific restaurant in mind.
Photo-ready gear: Bring your phone/camera for the many photo-ops, and if you have children, bring something festive (hat/headband) to enhance the memory.
Combine outings smartly: For example, you could do brunch downtown → holiday vendor market → quick shopping at the outlets → evening lights drive-through.
Budget mindfully: With gifts, shopping, tickets, dining all contributing, it helps to set a daily budget for the week so the holiday fun doesn’t strain finances.
Christmas week in Grand Prairie offers a rich blend of festive lights, family-friendly activities, local shopping, nature interludes and memorable meals. Whether you’re local or visiting, you can create a holiday itinerary that balances excitement and relaxation, indoors and outdoors, traditions and treats.
If you want to experience the magic of Christmas in a totally unique way, hop aboard The Wave Party Boat for their annual Christmas Cruises on Joe Pool Lake. These festive evening cruises combine lake views, twinkling lights, and holiday cheer for an unforgettable DFW holiday adventure.
Why it’s a must-do
Each cruise sails past the shimmering shoreline of Lynn Creek Park - giving you a one-of-a-kind view of Prairie Lights from the water.
Enjoy hot cocoa, cookies, and BYOB while listening to Christmas music surrounded by glowing reflections on the lake.
Ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone looking for something a little different than the usual land-based festivities.
AFTS Event Services
Make your next holiday event unforgettable with AFTS Event Services! Whether you’re planning a community Christmas festival, corporate holiday party, school winter fair, or a festive family gathering, our team brings the energy, setup, and excitement that make your event stand out.
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References
Visit Grand Prairie – Holiday Fun in Grand Prairie.
Prairie Lights – Things to Do.
Visit Grand Prairie – Attractions.
Tree Lighting & Lighted Holiday Parade.
Andretti Indoor Karting & Games, Grand Prairie.
Grand Holiday Craft Fair – Community Calendar.
Southern Living – The 15 Best Things to Do in Grand Prairie.
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