mamachallenge | Real Solutions for Real Parents | Dallas Blog

Real Solutions for Real Parents by Autumn Rose Reo

Must-Do Holiday Events in DFW

By 5 Comments

Looking to celebrate the holidays? In the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex we’re lucky to have so many to experience but here’s our shortlist of Must-Do Holiday Events in DFW!

Check back often: This list will update throughout the season. 

Ready for the holidays? Don’t worry, they’re already here, so get ready.

And in the DFW metroplex, from Fort Worth to Arlington, Addison to Grapevine (and of course everything in between), there are plenty of great ones to choose from every day of the week for holiday fun this time of year. However, there are a few events that you need to have on your must-do, must-go, must-see list for the holidays in 2021! (And make sure to look as some of these have giveaways too!) 


Holiday at the Arboretum

Nov. 10 – Dec. 31, 2021

Dallas / Arboretum

Tickets: Prices range with activities (some activities included with admission.)

Holiday at the Arboretum features the return of the magnificent The 12 Days of Christmas outdoor exhibit, as well as almost 1 million lights throughout the garden at night, trimming the architecture of the historic homes and lighting the canopies overhead—including a 30-foot-tall tree. But that’s just the beginning! You can snag a kiss under the mistletoe, get a glimpse of Santa and a real reindeer, have tea, and much more. There are activities available both morning and nights, throughout the week and the weekends so make sure to check the schedule to get your favorites. Get the details.

GO TO GRAPEVINE: Christmas at the Gaylord

Nov. 19 – Jan. 2, 2022

Grapevine / Gaylord Texan Hotel and Convention Center

Prices: Rates range based on activities (Save with promo code REO)

Without a doubt, if someone is looking for something Christmas, I always send them to Grapevine. There’s so much to do in the Christmas Capital of Texas, especially at the Gaylord Texan. This year’s events may not include ICE!, but it does include a special challenge, Mission: Save Christmas featuring Elf™. Journey through some of your favorite movie scenes as you join Buddy the Elf to help save Christmas. Complete fun-filled challenges alongside Buddy and friends as you visit the candy cane forest, assist with toy preparations at the North Pole, prepare for Santa’s arrival at the iconic department store, and take part in an epic virtual snowball fight in Central Park. But that’s not all – just make a weekend of it and enjoy a stroll down main street and you’ll get in the holiday mood with tons of shops, restaurants and events happening all season.   Get the details.

 

Radiance: A Holiday Lights Spectacular

Nov. 19 – Dec. 26, 2021

Frisco / Weatherford / Decatur 

Prices: $30 per car / $50 for VIP (special VIP lane, hot chocolate and magical light glasses for the kids.)

Enjoy the wonder of RADIANCE! A Holiday Light Spectacular, at Frisco, Decatur, or Weatherford, or gather your friends and experience all three. Gather the family and sip a cup of hot chocolate as you marvel at two million lights, animated to the tunes of your favorite holiday classics from the safety and comfort of your car! Get the details.

Enchant Christmas

Nov. 26 – Jan. 2, 2022

Dallas / Fair Park

Prices: $25 for kids / $20-$35 for adults

Get ready to light up your Instagram. Experience thousands of radiant Christmas lights as you immerse yourself in a spectacular Light Maze adventure. Guided by dazzling lights, you’ll search for nine of Santa’s reindeer who have become lost in a giant snowstorm and need your help finding their way out of the mystical Enchant forest. Glide through an illuminated ice skating trail, stroll through the Enchant market for goodies including some great vendors (bring on the tamales and the raclette, enjoy Mrs. Claus storytime and visit with Santa himself in Santa’s Landing. Get the details. 

The Trains at Northpark

Nov. 13 – Jan. 2, 2022

The exhibit closes for Christmas and Thanksgiving, also closing early for both Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.

Dallas / Northpark Center 

Prices: Children under 2 free / Children ages 2-12 $5 / Adults $10 / Seniors over 65 $5

For the past 34 years The Trains at NorthPark have been a holiday tradition for many families (you can spot them through the mall sporting their PJs as they head to the exhibit!) Benefiting Ronald McDonald House of Dallas (RMHD), and presented by Bank of Texas, The Trains at NorthPark features 750 railcars on a 1,600-foot elaborate configuration of tracks and scenes. The largest miniature train track in Texas, the Trains at NorthPark features cityscapes like Dallas, the Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge and Fair Park; New York with Times Square and Grand Central Terminal; Washington, D.C. with The White House; and San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge. Other highlights include New England’s fall foliage, the Grand Canyon, Garden of the Gods, Mount Rushmore and Route 66. The charming exhibit has been seen by around two million since its original run over 30 years ago.  (As you can see here from 2013, we’re big fans!)  Get the details.

SNOWDAY Dallas

Nov. 19 – Dec. 24, 2021

Dallas / Galleria Dallas

SNOWDAY Prices: Children under 3 free / Kids ages 4 – 12 $12 / Adults $27   

Santaland Prices: Family admission ticket for up to 6 people total starts at $28

Galleria Dallas wins the award in our opinion when it comes to holiday! Maybe it’s the largest indoor Christmas tree in the U.S., maybe it’s the red twinkling lights, maybe it’s the free holiday shows featuring award-winning ice skaters, or maybe it’s the shopping! We do know that it’s definitely one of its newest additions, SNOWDAY! In its third year,  come discover what magic awaits you on the other side of the North Pole where the elves play. Guests board the train to a wonderland of fun with festive photo ops, enchanted rooms, interactive spaces, and nostalgic moments with photo booths integrated throughout the exhibit. This year you can make your trip extra magical with a visit with the big man himself. Catch the next train to Santaland with daily non-stop service to the North Pole! There you will find Santa who already knows every child’s name (yes, really!)

 

The Elf on the Shelf’s Magical Holiday Journey

Nov. 18 – Jan. 2, 2022

Arlington / Choctaw Stadium (formerly Globe Life Park)

Prices: $10 for kids / $20 for adults 

Join Santa’s Elves on a quest to collect the ingredients for Christmas Spirit! Magically shrink down to elf size and embark on a journey through twinkling wonderlands to set Santa and Christmas back on course.  Visit with jolly ol’ Saint Nick, snap great pictures with family and friends, sip on hot cocoa, and enjoy yummy treats. Get the details. 

The best part is you’ll also get a chance to get you’ll find a German Christmas at the Texas Christkindl Market. Discover holiday cheer, decorations, German treats, and one-­of-­a-­kind finds and gifts from your favorite vendors. Get the details. And make the most of it with a trip to the most Christmasy restaurant in DFW,  Campo Verde and Decorator’s Warehouse, the largest Christmas store in Texas! For more fun in Arlington, check out 0ur Arlington holiday bucket list!

Dallas Zoo Lights

Nov. 19 – Jan. 2, 2022

Dallas / Dallas Zoo

Prices: Member $50 per car / Non-Member $65 per car

After the animals head in for the evening, the Dallas Zoo transforms into a winter wonderland with over one million twinkling lights illuminating the Zoo throughout the holiday season. Discover realistic silk-covered lanterns in the shape of your favorite animals, plus even more light displays and festivities for the entire family! Get the details.

Dallas Zoo Lights Activities:

  • Holiday Light Show
  • Santa meet-and-greet
  • Nature ornament-making activity
  • Nightly musical performances throughout Zoo
  • North Rainbow Arch
  • Whimsical African watering hole at Lantern Ridge
  • Santa’s Sleigh photo op
  • Elves’ Workshop at the Lacerte Family Children’s Zoo with Animal Encounters every 30 minutes
  • S’mores, specialty donuts, funnel cakes, and hot chocolate.  

(photo credit Dallas Zoo )

Holiday in the Park

Nov. 19 – Jan. 2, 2022

Arlington / Six Flags Over Texas 

Ticket Prices vary

If you’re looking for holiday thrills you’ll find them at Holiday in the Park at Six Flags over Texas. Discover a winter wonderland filled with more than 1 million lights holiday attractions including visits with Santa, sing-a-longs, holiday shows and don’t forget the treats (s’mores!)  At the Merry Marketplace grab a few holiday gifts filled with holiday treats, shopping, and photo opportunities. Get the details.

Arlington for the Holidays

Prairie Lights 

Nov. 25 – Dec. 31, 2021 Thanksgiving – New Year’s Eve (hours vary) 

Grand Prairie / Joe Pool Lake

Prices start at $40 per car

Long one of my favorite of displays in DFW, Prairie Lights in Grand Prairie is well worth the time and money! There is such much even beyond two miles of lit paths and four million lights, it’s a whole night of fun for the kid in all of us. 2021 features the return of Holiday Village, the magical walk-thru forest, carnival rides, photos with Santa, and more.  Get the details.

Gift of Lights 

Nov. 25 – Jan. 2, 2022

Fort Worth / Texas Motor Speedway

Prices: Tickets start at $30

Head to Texas Motor Speedway for the Gift of Lights.  There you will see a fantastic light show, travel to Santa’s Village where you will meet Santa and experience what Christmas is like at the North Pole. First responders and military also get a special gift with a free 5 x 7 photo in Santa’s Village. Get the details. 

Vitruvian Lights 

Nov. 26 – Jan. 2, 2022

Addison / Vitruvian Park 

Free 

The most dazzling and spectacular time of the year is here!  Vitruvian Park transforms into a magical holiday wonderland during Vitruvian Lights. Walkthrough the park to view the lights, gourmet food trucks, sweet treats, FREE photos with Santa, classic holiday characters, elf balloon artist, and Metrocrest Services Donation Drive plus live music! Get the details.

Vitruvian Lights

                   (Photo credit: Visit Addison Facebook) 

Christmas at the Anatole

Nov. 28 – Dec. 24, 2021

Dallas / Hilton Anatole

Rates and prices range based on activities.

When it comes to having some real face-time with Santa and Mrs. Claus, Christmas at the Anatole is the perfect place. The legendary hotel transforms into a winter wonderland complete with festive décor, Santa fun, holiday movies and even live reindeer. But waking up with Breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Claus might be the icing on the Christmas cookies! Make a weekend of it with a stay at the hotel which includes a holiday movie night or try to snag one of the select opportunities for Breakfast with Santa only. Either way, you’ll make some great memories! Get the details.

Hilton-Anatole-Christmas 

Daystar Christmas

Nov. 25 – Jan. 2, 2022

Bedford / Daystar

Free admission

I can’t believe for so many years I didn’t know about this event, but I’m so glad we do now! A beautiful, intimate way to spend the holidays together looking at lights and the life-size nativity scene, Daystar Christmas is even adding a massive drive-thru tunnel stretching 950 ft. with more than 11,000 Lights. There are amazing backdrops for photos, there are visits with Santa and there’s even a coffee shop that you can visit with sweets, cocoa, and more.  Get the details.

Daystar

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer

Nov. 20 – Dec. 23, 2021

Fort Worth / Casa Manana

Prices: Start at $19 (Get 20% OFF with code AUTUMN20)

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer soars off the screen and onto the stage with all of our favorite characters. This musical adaption is filled with holiday hits like “A Holly Jolly Christmas” and “The Most Wonderful Day of the Year”. Pictures with Santa are also available before every show! Get the details. 

 

POGO Pass

Dallas / Fort Worth

Want to save some money on memories this holiday season? Looking for a great stocking stuffer? The POGO Pass is one pass, one price, for one year of fun. Save even more with promo code MAMACHALLENGE Get the details. 

 

Check back often: This list will update throughout the season. 

Holidays at the Hilton Anatole

By 1 Comment

Need an escape this Christmas? Why not the North Pole? Head to Santa and his village by way of Dallas for Holidays at the Hilton Anatole.

SponsoredPostDisclaimer

Our family needed an escape for the holidays and there’s no better place than the North Pole…but since travel isn’t on the list for us lately, we packed up our family Christmas pjs and headed to Dallas to the Hilton Anatole. We’ve always enjoyed years of their Breakfast with Santa. And while this year there’s no Peppermint Park, we were so excited Santa wasn’t just hosting his holiday breakfast, but he also added some fun new surprises like holiday decorated hotel rooms, s’mores by the fire, the North Pole Cafe and even a real reindeer!

Hilton Anatole

Christmas at the Hilton Anatole 


Breakfast at with Santa: Breakfast with Santa is served family-style at each table this year in the big ballroom and includes all the breakfast favorites like chocolate chip pancakes, assorted pastries, bacon and eggs, fruit, made-to-order breakfast tacos and omelets, and for the big kids – Mimosa and Bloody Mary carafes! During breakfast Santa visits with the children in a socially distanced format including the reading of a Texas-themed Christmas story and letters from the children in the audience mailed from the North Pole mailbox in the lobby.  Santa’s sleigh will also be set up for photo opportunities! 

Other Holiday Activities: Guests who book a Breakfast with Santa or Santa Suite Package can enjoy holiday themed activities the evening of check-in throughout the hotel for all ages including:

  • Photo opportunities with Santa and a live reindeer (we met Blitzen and he was my perfect holiday wish!) 
  • North Pole Cafe offering Naughty and Nice Cocktails and lite-bites for adults and children
  • Tipsy Toes – A performing Christmas Tree on stilts  
  • S’mores kits around the fire pit in the sculpture garden
  • Children will be able to write letters to Santa and mail them directly to the North Pole via the mailbox in the lobby
  • Evening movie night featuring holiday movies and popcorn
  • Holiday arts and craft stations and games

Room Packages and Reservations at the Hilton Anatole

Breakfast with Santa Package – Guests who book the Breakfast with Santa package will receive:

  • One standard guest room with 1 p.m. late check-out
  • Preferred seating at breakfast for two adults and two children with Santa on day of departure from 9 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.(additional guest $17.99 Child and 39.99 Adult)
  • Plus holiday activities throughout the hotel the evening of check-in  

Santa Suite Package – Guests who book the Santa Suite Package will receive:

  • One Santa-themed suite (guest room + parlor) including holiday décor and amenities with 1 p.m. late check-out
  • Meet-n-greet event with Santa and one of his live reindeer from 6-7 pm day of arrival including a family portrait 
  • Preferred VIP table at breakfast for two adults and two children  from 9 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. (additional guest $17.99 Child and 39.99 Adult)
  • Holiday activities throughout the hotel the evening of arrival

Breakfast with Santa Only – Individual event reservations will be available on a limited basis starting at $45 per person, and $20 for children under 10 and can be booked by calling 214-761-7536 or by email Jeffrey.Mikus@Hilton.com.

And one big thing to note: I couldn’t have felt safer. The rooms were sealed to let us know they had been cleaned just for us. EVERYONE had on a mask unless guests who were eating. And of course with a hotel as big as the Anatole, there was so much room for socially distancing. Best of all, Santa and his reindeer are outside for a memorable photo opp. 

Also:

  • Christmas at the Anatole and Breakfast with Santa was designed with the new Hilton EventReady guidelines and protocols to make these events safe for all guests and team members.  
  • Breakfast events will be held in a 28,000 square-foot ballroom where the hotel can socially distance about 100 family tables.
  • Tables are  assigned to individual families, up to 10. 

Ready to go? Breakfast events will be from 9 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. on: 

  • Saturday, November 28 
  • Sunday, November 29 
  • Saturday, December 5
  • Sunday, December 6
  • Saturday, December 12
  • Sunday, December 13
  • Saturday, December 19
  • Sunday, December 20
  • Monday, December 21
  • Tuesday, December 22
  • Wednesday, December 23

For more information on Christmas at the Anatole and to book reservations, visit the Hilton Anatole website.

Holiday Events in DFW 2020

Go: Peppermint Park at the Christmas at the Anatole

By Leave a Comment

Christmas at the Anatole is a sweet Dallas tradition for your holiday bucket list. Get whisked away to Peppermint Park for memories that will last them (and you) a lifetime. 

Thank you to the Hilton Anatole for allowing us to experience the Christmas at the Anatole and this sponsored post.

The Hilton Anatole has long been a place for our family to create memories. 

Taylor’s Birthday at Jade Waters, our first family “fancy” dinner at SER, and many Christmases with Santa and Mrs. Claus. So rolling in through with revolving doors this year, with an 11-year-old and an 8-year-old, I thought this year, might be our last. 


Christmas at the Anatole

Had the magic of waking up for breakfast with Santa or the sparkle of sipping hot chocolate outside as we strolled around a few holiday-themed booths? 

However, as we walked through the entryway of Peppermint Park, I could see the sparkle in both of their eyes. And by the end of the trip of our quick escape to the Hilton Anatole they both had already begun making plans for next year when we come. 

That’s why this sweet Dallas tradition is a must for your holiday bucket list.

What to Expect at Peppermint Park 

Upon check-in we begun our stay with a special cookies and cocoa reception including meet and greet with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Then we headed outside directly to Peppermint Park to check out the activities. Immediately as we were greeted by the crackling fire and carolers, I could see and feel all the warm and fuzzies, especially as walked into this precious, pint-sized “Christkindl” holiday market under the stars. Next we spent more than three hours outside having a ball as we sang, played games, made crafts, took TONS of photos, and laughed a lot.  And we didn’t even do everything there… the night we went, there were no lines and we just went from one activity to another enjoying ourselves all night.  

Christmas at the Anatole

Christmas at the Anatole

Peppermint Park Activities 

  • Christmas Tree Lighting
  • Sweet Treats – Funnel Cake, Cookies, S’mores, and much more
  • Selfie Station
  • North Pole Miniature Golf
  • Holiday Train Ride – Roll around the Park in this miniature train  
  • Cookie Decorating
  • Teddy Bear Factory
  • Santa Letter Writing at the Elf Post Office 
  • Face Painting
  • Snow Globe Photo 
  • S’mores around the fire with caroling 
  • Holiday Marionette Show
  • Mini Escape Room – 12 minutes of perfect-timed fun 
  • Multiple Singing and dancing stations 
  • and more. 

For dinner we voted for room service was the best option for us so we could eat in the bed (not to mention who doesn’t love good room service like they have here (the food is rather extraordinary!) However, while we waited, my son and I spent some time together walking around, taking a selfie next to one the many photo experiences and headed to the CounterOffer, the 24-hour grab and go. With coffee, wine, salads, soups, pizza, sushi and some of the best sweet confections, we loaded up on a carefully created Yuletide Log and a gigantic Christmas tree cupcake and headed back to the room to eat. Later once we had full bellies, we put on our jammies  to enjoy the Christmas movie theatre for holiday shows, popcorn and concessions made just for families and quickly afterwards to our room to get some shut eye before breakfast with the big guy.

Christmas at the Anatole

The next morning we woke up, donning our holiday pjs (attire is up to you) for breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Claus. I’m glad we had elastic pants because the buffet was spectacular. There was a pancake station, made-to-order Chilaquiles, egg casserole, oatmeal station, cinnamon rolls and a hot chocolate, coffee and juice bar…it was so good. But honestly still the best part was Santa and Mrs. Claus came to the table to say hello and snap that holiday shot! As we stuffed ourselves, Santa took his chair and began to read a story to all the kids (little and big.) 

Christmas at the Anatole

Christmas at the Anatole

But as we started to get our belongings together, including our new holiday bears we built at Peppermint Park and the loads of goodies we made that night so we could head back home the kids asked if they could please, please, please come back next year. 

Holiday bucket list moment achieved. 

If you’re heading to the Hilton Anatole for Christmas at the Anatole, here are a few tips to make it the best moments.

Best Tips for Christmas at the Anatole 

Go with the VIP Package – it makes it easy to enjoy everything! 

VIP Holiday Package Include:

  • One Standard Guest Room, late check-out 3 pm
  • Valet parking for one vehicle
  • Meet & Greet Reception with Santa and Mrs. Claus on day of arrival with one complimentary 5×7 photo with Santa and Cookies and Refreshments
  • Complimentary Entrance into Peppermint Park (December 13, 14, 19, 20, 21, 22)
    • Christmas Tree Lighting
    • Holiday Marionette Show, Penguin Show, Tinsel the Talking Christmas Tree Show, Jack Frost’s North Pole Weather Station Show, Be a WRAP Star Competition, Name that Holiday Tune & Trivia, North Pole Adventure, Giant Snow Globe Photo Op, Holiday Movie Night and more!
    • Guests receive $20 off Peppermint Park Activity Passes!
    • Breakfast with Santa for up to 2 adults and 2 kids on day of departure

Christmas at the Anatole

Be Wardrobe Ready 

Between meeting Santa, going outdoors for Peppermint Park, holiday movies, and breakfast with Santa, there were several things to be prepared for (especially if you’re planning to take photos of it.) Make sure to pack what you need for those moments, both indoors and out. However, Peppermint Park does have jackets, sweaters, hats, and other great gifts if you happen to forget! 

Christmas at the Anatole

Don’t Just Watch, Do

This is where I think we all need a reminder as parents. We’re so used to taking our kids to events and being spectators. However, at Peppermint Park you can have fun with them! Play the golf, peek in the Escape Room scuttle hole, sing the carols – it’s all about making memories with your children. 

Christmas at the Anatole

Know How to Dine 

There are multiple options for dining at the Hilton Anatole, so there are several options that can work for whatever experience you’re looking for with your family. 

  • SĒR Steak + Spirits 

Don’t Forget the Unschedule Activities 

There are plenty of opportunities to make your own holiday memories that aren’t on the schedule at Christmas at the Anatole. Walk around and take photos throughout the hotel, take time to talk at dinner, wear the PJs, and sing the songs!

Christmas at the Anatole

Visit the official Hilton Anatole website for more information about Christmas at the Anatole. 

 

 

 

 

Merry Christmas with Robert Earl Keen

By 1 Comment

For more there’s nothing more classic Christmas than Robert Earl Keen. Celebrate Christmas his way with this mamachallenge.com exclusive and get your tickets to a “Countdown to Christmas” in Fort Worth, Dec. 30 at Bass Performance Hall. 

“Carve the turkey turn the ballgame on

Make margaritas when the eggnog’s gone

Send somebody to the Quik Pak Store…


We need some icing and extension cords…” 

Growing up this song describes my family Christmas to a tee I heard it the first time, but more so it would be the first of many R.E.K. lyrics that would become our anthems growing up in small town Texas. As I look back at those big memorable moments in my life, Robert Earl Keen is often the soundtrack. 

So when asked if I would like to talk with the Texas singer/songwriter to chat about his upcoming show at Bass Performance Hall featuring my favorite Christmas song, “I kinda fanned out. A LOT. You have no idea how big of a dork I acted. 

But after I gained my composure and a few minutes into chatting with Robert Earl Keen (always by his full name because it never sounds right saying it any other way), like his songs, I’m calmed and collected, and brought to my happy place. 

REK yellow jacket close up 2

(PC: Robert Earl Keen)

That and that just listening to hi say anything reminded me of all the stories he shares before he belts into one of his own songs…The same stories that have connected him to audiences for decades. Except this time, was my own moment…

And like you’d hope and expect, everything about him is just what I thought: a good ole boy that’s thankful each time he heads to the stage to do what he loves, his way. A man, I would find out, spends his life pretty normal in Kerrville, Texas where he describes it as a lot like “Leave it to Beaver.”  Except quite possibly the way he actually spends his Christmas. 

REK

“I’m known for my making homemade personalized pizzas on Christmas Eve,” he shared when asked how close his Christmas is to the song that was released in 1994. “Everyone comes over and I spend hours making 20 or so pizzas for all my friends and family,” he continued. “Then on Christmas Day we eat Lasagne.”

While I didn’t expect the Italian twist, REKs own personal Christmas tradition encapsulates his own way of authentic, “real way” of sharing much like the recent $55M fundraiser he played in this September “Hand in Hand: A Benefit for Hurricane Harvey Relief” with George Strait, Miranda Lambert, Chris Stapleton, Lyle Lovett and tons of celebrities taking donations over the phone or as the headliner on October 21 for Deep From The Heart Concert at Texas A&M University hosted by former living U.S. Presidents performing alongside Alabama, Cassadee Pope, Lady Gaga and more.

Yes, it was as perfect as it gets,” he shared. “The music was just stellar.” 

But as star-studded as that evening was, it’s the less than red-carpeted evenings I had to know more about. 

“So Robert Earl Keen, is “Merry Christmas from the Family” real or is it just a fun song that all the words came together to make it a hit?” I bravely asked finally. 

He took a deep breath and began his story in only the way REK could, began to share how the “Christmas song,” a song that would become the impetus for the Christmas production many years later, came to be. 

“Right before Christmas, to amuse myself, I just wrote about Christmas just off hand, with these words of my experiences in Houston growing up that I had in the back of my head,” he began. And in 20 minutes, it was done, so I just put it in my back pocket. Then one day I was sharing some music to production guy and it wasn’t going great. Then the guy asked ‘Well, is that all you got?’ I was pretty frustrated so I just started to play it…and he said ‘That’s the best song you have here.’ And that was  the tipping point.”

REK yellow jacket band 2017Final 1

(PC: Robert Earl Keen)

While “Merry Christmas from the Family” is one of REKs most popular songs so much so that he actually had to put a “Linen Rule” on when he plays it, “Coming Home” stands as his own possible favorite (as well as mine.) But when it comes to Christmas tunes, he shared “O Holy Night” is one of his all time favorites as well as “Santa Claus is Coming to Town.” 

And the Town this Santa is coming to is what Keen calls ‘his favorite city in Texas’ – Fort Worth.”

And the Town this Santa is coming to is what Keen calls “his favorite city in Texas,” Fort Worth, for his one-night performance of the “Fam-O-Lee Back to the Country Jamboree.” The show is described as it “brings visions of sugar plums, elves and maybe a cow or two while families bond with those closest to them at what is sure to become a favorite, non-stop laughing, holiday tradition!”

But honestly, Robert Earl Keen has long been a holiday tradition for many of us for a long-time now. 

See the show: 

Robert Earl Keen’s Countdown to Christmas

Dec. 30 at 7:30 pm

Bass Performance Hall

Fort Worth, Texas

Buy Tickets

 

 

 

It’s a German Christmas at the Texas Christkindl Market

By 15 Comments

There’s tons to do in Dallas and Fort Worth during the holidays. One of our favorites is outdoor fun, culture, and history all in one at the Texas Christkindl Market in Arlington, plus there’s gluhwein. (’nuff said.)

I’m a gal that loves to travel. But with kids in tow and Christmas craziness happening, it’s hard to think there’s time for that. But I found the way to Germany and all you need to do is head to the ballpark (Globe Life Park that is.) 

All of these fun events and activities are in my backyard, but if you don’t live in Texas, then you probably only associate Arlington with America’s Team the Dallas Cowboys and Texas Rangers. Did you know it’s home to some of the most magical holiday experiences, too?

Texas Chriskindl Market


You can ooh and ahh at all the floats in the Arlington Holiday Lights Parade and the historical Interlochen Lights or you can enjoy the thrills of Six Flags Over Texas – Holiday in the Park. One of my favorites has to be strolling through Texas Christkindl Market – reminiscent of a German holiday experience. 

Texas Christkindl Market, the largest open-air market in the Southwest, is not your typical holiday fair. It’s inspired by German tradition and features holiday gifts, decorations, and of course, German food.  More than 25 vendors are found up and down the market with great giftables like jewelry, ornaments and little German trinkets like cuckoo clocks. Plus, it is the only place in the Southwest where you can find handcrafted gifts and collectibles straight from exclusive Käthe Wohlfahrt merchandise and designs from the iconic Rothenburg ob der Tauber Christmas Village.

GE3_9519

This is heaven for shoppers or just people who like to collect festive holiday items, but if shopping isn’t your cup of tea, there’s much more: 

SPECIAL EVENTS NOT TO MISS AT THE TEXAS CHRISTKINDL MARKET

Tree Lighting and Opening Ceremonies -­ Nov. 29 at 7 pm

Kicking off the 2019 Market, the community is invited to welcome the beautiful Christkindl Angel at the Opening Ceremonies on Nov. 29. The angelic namesake of the event, the Christkind opens the market, sharing German holiday traditions and stories. Special guests are invited to join the Angel as she lights up the live 30-ft. Concolor Fir Christkindl Tree, presented by Viridian DFW by Johnson Development, opening the Market for a successful 24 days.  

Ice Skating in the North Plaza 

Take to the ice with 5,000 sq. ft. of frozen fun produced by Ice Rink Rinks! Take a spin on our outdoor ice skating rink, which will be open through Jan. 12, 2020, and create magical memories with family and friends. 

Hours: Open Nov. 29, 2019  – Jan. 12, 2020. After-school hours on weekdays:  4 pm-9 pm; Saturdays and School Holidays: 11 am-10 pm, Sundays: noon- 7 pm.

Tickets: Individual admission for all ages: $16 (includes skate rental). For tickets and information, please visit txchristkindlmarket.com.  For questions regarding group discounts or private skate requests, email txchristkindlmarket@icerinkevents.com.

Warming Haus 

Enjoy the comforts of warm, covered seating in the Warming Haus as a cozy place to enjoy eating your gingerbread or catching up with an old friend. The Warming Haus is an ideal destination to warm up by enjoying seasonal beverages including beer, Kinderpunsch and Glühwein in custom-collectible mugs (while supplies last.) After the refreshments, head back to the ice rink for a classic holiday experience with friends and family. For information on hosting private events and meetings, please email info@txchristkindlmarket.com.  

Kinder Club

Before heading to see St. Nikolaus, children are invited to write a letter (or download a special template) at the Kinder Club online at: https://www.txchristkindlmarket.com/kinder-club/kids-downloads/. Letters should be dropped at the Warming Haus at the Texas Christkindl Market in Arlington, Texas and put it in the specially marked mailbox to receive a personal response from St. Nikolaus himself (with a little help from the Texas Rangers Women’s Club.) 

St. Nikolaus 

There’s nothing more legendary than a visit with St. Nikolaus at the Texas Christkindl Market in Arlington! Every child is invited to meet St. Nikolaus to share their special requests and  photography packages may be purchased starting at $19.95.  

GE3_2477

After all of the carousel rides and snow fights, you’ll probably work up quite an appetite for some authentic German cuisine – roasting nuts, brats, potato pancakes, funnel cakes and gluhwein / spiced wine (my personal favorite.) And you can enjoy all of this yummy food in the comfort of the Warming Hut or while listening to one of the acts musical acts that are scheduled throughout the market. Just be careful – we don’t need anyone roasting in a warming hut.

Arlington 2011 Christkindl Market Day Two photographed Saturday, December 2, 2011. Photography by Bruce E. Maxwell.

Arlington 2011 Christkindl Market Day Two photographed Saturday, December 2, 2011. Photography by Bruce E. Maxwell.

The best part about all of this – admission and parking are FREE! Located near Globe Life Field and Texas Live! in the North Plaza, The Texas Christkindl Market is open daily, Nov. 29 until December 22. For more information on vendors, activities and a full schedule of entertainment, click here.

EVENT DETAILS

Texas Christkindl Market, presented by Comerica Bank

Nov. 29 – Dec. 22, 2019

North Plaza at Globe Life Field (next to Texas Live!) 

1650 E. Randol Mill Rd., Arlington, TX 76011

Free market admission, Ice rink admission: $16 

For Info: For information, visit www.TXChristkindlMarket.com, www.facebook.com/TXChristkindl, www.twitter.com/TXChristkindl, www.instagram.com/TXChristkindl #TXChristkindl

christkindl market

 

Santa’s Toy Factory at the Parks at Arlington

By Leave a Comment

Santa’s getting really generous by letting kids get hands-on at Santa’s Toy Factory at the Parks at Arlington beginning Nov. 11. 

Thanks to General Growth Properties and Mattel for sharing this sneak peek opportunity by sponsoring mamachallenge.com. 

©2017 Gullane (Thomas) Limited. ©2017 Mattel. All Rights Reserved.

Image Credit: ©2017 Gullane (Thomas) Limited. ©2017 Mattel. All Rights Reserved.

The Parks at Arlington Mall has partnered with Mattel to introduce a new holiday adventure that will be memorable for the entire family. Santa’s Toy Factory will open on Nov. 11 in the center court area of the shopping center.


To be honest every year I telling Santa (or grandma and grandpa) what to get the kids for Christmas and I don’t even know what they are! Not that Barbie®, Hot Wheels®, and Thomas & Friends™ or  Santa ever disappoint (as all of them are always on the top of my kids’ Christmas list), but wouldn’t it be great to find out how a toy works or see if your kids really like it before it makes the FINAL CHRISTMAS LIST? 

More about Santa’s Toy Factory:

Image Credit: ©2017 Gullane (Thomas) Limited. ©2017 Mattel. All Rights Reserved.

Image Credit: ©2017 Gullane (Thomas) Limited. ©2017 Mattel. All Rights Reserved.

Santa’s Toy Factory is designed to empower creativity through an interactive, immersive experience to meet Santa. Within the 1,600 square-foot space, young guests will have the opportunity to “test” new toys in Santa’s Factory before they get delivered to all the boys and girls on Christmas morning. After they “test” the toys, they visit different stations to digitally design, build and paint toys from Mattel’s iconic brands including Barbie®, Hot Wheels®, and Thomas & Friends™. The grand finale, of course, will be meeting Santa himself for photos and to share their holiday wish list.

“We are proud to be partnering with Mattel to bring this new, one-of-a-kind holiday concept to life,” said Lorie Lisius, general manager of Parks at Arlington. “We are always looking for ways to introduce new brands and experiences to our community and can’t wait to showcase Santa’s Toy Factory this holiday season. We know our guests will embrace it.”

The experience with Santa’s Toy Factory is free-of-charge and photo packages begin at $39.99. To make reservations to ensure quicker access, please click HERE. If you’d like more information, please visit www.VisitSantasToyFactory.com. Parks at Arlington is located at 3811 South Cooper and is home to a plethora of high-quality tenants including H&M, Aveda and Dickey’s BBQ.

Check out these One-Day Special Events Too!

You Can Be Anything Barbie

©2017 Gullane (Thomas) Limited. ©2017 Mattel. All Rights Reserved.


Image Credit: ©2017 Gullane (Thomas) Limited. ©2017 Mattel. All Rights Reserved.

November 11, 2017
12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Center Court

Thomas and His Super Station

Image Credit: ©2017 Gullane (Thomas) Limited. ©2017 Mattel. All Rights Reserved.

November 28, 2017
12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Center Court

Hot Wheels Ultimate Garage

©2017 Gullane (Thomas) Limited. ©2017 Mattel. All Rights Reserved.

Image Credit: ©2017 Gullane (Thomas) Limited. ©2017 Mattel. All Rights Reserved.

December 10, 2017
12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Center Court

Get Social with Parks at Arlington

Twitter: @ParksArlington

Instagram: @theparksmallsatarlington

Facebook: @TheParksMallatArlington

Get Social with Mattel

Twitter: @Mattel

Instagram: @Mattel

Facebook: @Mattel

Disclosure: I’ve partnered with Bloggin’ Mamas & GGP Parks at Arlington to share these free family events with my readers, and am being compensated for this partnership. All opinions expressed are my own.

Pin This!

Visit Mama Challenge's profile on Pinterest.

Pictures Say a 1000 Words

Follow Along!