As the holiday season approaches, McKinney, Texas, transforms into a winter wonderland that captivates visitors and locals alike. Known for its small-town charm and festive spirit, McKinney offers a plethora of holiday activities, events and decorations that create an enchanting atmosphere to delight all ages.
Home for the Holidays Festival — November 24-26
McKinney’s Home for the Holidays festival, held every Thanksgiving weekend, is a beloved tradition that kicks off the Christmas season. The event features an array of activities, including live music and dance performances, arts and crafts vendors and food trucks offering delicious holiday treats. Children can delight in visits with Santa Claus in his workshop. And families will not want to miss the spectacular community tree-lighting ceremony on Friday evening followed by a concert on the square. Admission to the weekend-long event is free.
Throughout the holiday season, families can enjoy the Christmas Carousel, kids workshop craft area, visits with Santa and taking family photos by the community Christmas tree on the downtown square. Of course, you will want to take some time to stroll around Historic Downtown McKinney to be enchanted by the festive storefront displays.
Christmas shopping in McKinney is a delight, as the city boasts an eclectic array of boutiques, specialty stores and art galleries. Browse through the shops to find one-of-a-kind gifts for your loved ones, such as handmade jewelry, clothing, home decor, Christmas decorations, toys and artisanal chocolates.
After a day of shopping and exploring, enjoy the delightful dining options McKinney has to offer. From cozy cafes serving hot soups and sandwiches to upscale restaurants with seasonal menus, the city’s dining scene caters to all tastes. Don’t miss the chance to try some Texas-style barbecue, a local favorite, or indulge in a festive feast at one of the many restaurants offering special holiday menus.
50th Annual Holiday Tour of Homes — December 2-3 & 9-10
This year, Chestnut Square and the Heritage Guild of Collin County celebrate 50 years of this favored event that showcases several homes in McKinney’s residential historic district. For this year’s tour, there will be two sets of decorated homes, one set each weekend, and bonus stops and activities at Chestnut Square Heritage Village. In addition to the home tours, guests can enjoy tea served along with a full breakfast buffet in the recently renovated Bevel House. (Additional ticket required for this activity.)
Holidays at the Heard — December 8-9
This annual event at the Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary brings the beauty of the holiday season to nature. Children can take part in activities and snacks in the museum while visiting with Father Christmas, then head out to the nature trails adorned with thousands of twinkling lights. Make sure to look for the animatronic dinosaurs that visit The Heard each fall and winter, all decked out for the season. Bundle up the kids, and enjoy this one-of-a-kind family holiday experience.
Christmas Parade of Lights — December 9
Each year, thousands of locals and visitors fill the downtown square for the Christmas Parade of Lights that includes decorated floats, marching bands and, of course, Santa Claus himself. Admission is free.
If you are seeking a magical and heartwarming Christmas experience for your family, look no further than McKinney with its rich traditions and strong sense of community. Plan your visit to McKinney to experience the magic that makes this North Texas town a must-see holiday destination.
Beth Shumate
Communications Manager — Visit McKinney
Editor’s Note: For more information, go to visitmckinney.com.
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