When it comes to the holidays, Grapevine, Texas is known as the Christmas capital of Texas. The city is unparalleled by the likes of popular tourist destinations like Houston and Austin, Texas. During the holiday season, both locals and visitors enjoy the festive decorations that transform Main Street into a holiday wonderland. The city even celebrates Christmas with more than 1,400 events in the span of 40 days. The enchanting decor and events make this city the perfect destination for travelers wanting to make long-lasting yuletide memories with family and loved ones. Visitors of the Texas Christmas Capital will leave the city feeling the season spirit and with plenty of pictures encapsulating the beauty of holiday cheer.
The small city even hosts a popular annual parade, which is the largest lighted Christmas parade in all of north Texas. Almost as if it is straight out of a Hallmark movie, Grapevine, Texas is one city where travelers who love Christmas will appreciate the exciting annual celebrations.
The city is also known for its historic buildings, wineries and homey suburban feel. It is a popular destination in northern Texas that is near the Dallas and Fort Worth areas. There are plenty of charming accommodations in the area that both budget and luxury travelers can enjoy. The Grapevine Botanical Garden, Vineyards Campground and Cabins, Grapevine Lake and Meadowmere Park are some of the most popular natural attractions in Grapevine. The city has so much to offer, even if one is not too concerned that they are in the Christmas Capital of Texas, they will still have a great time with plenty of things to do.
How To Get to Grapevine
Grapevine, Texas is around eight miles from the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport. The driving distance to Grapevine from the airport is about a 15 minute drive. For travelers who want to ensure their transportation in Texas is within their budget, the airport taxi service will cost them around $35 to get to the small city.
To get around the city, domestic travelers can drive themselves in a rental car or take public transportation (or simply walk around). There is a Grapevine visitor’s shuttle, which is a great way to get around the city. The shuttle runs on two different routes that visit the most popular spots in town. During Christmas time (around November to December) it has a special holiday schedule. The shuttle is very convenient and visitors can even use it for free.
Things To Do in the Christmas Capital
There is plenty to do in Grapevine during Christmas time. Whether travelers are solo traveling or with family and friends, there are many magical moments to be had during a Christmas vacation.
To start off the holiday season right, travelers can choose from an assortment of fun experiences. Some of the popular first events of the season include a showing of “A Christmas Carol” and “A Christmas Story” at the Palace Theatre, skating at the Peace Plaza Ice Rink, shopping around the Grapevine Christmas Market, viewing the Annual Parade of Lights and the Merry and Bright Christmas Drone Show. For visitors who love the red-suited Saint Nick, there are many interactive events. There is a weekly brunch with Santa, photos with Santa and even a story time event with Santa all throughout December.
Adults can enjoy the Christmas Wine Train or Grapevine Wine Trails which both offer samples of local wine and an opportunity to explore the charming atmosphere. Entertainment lovers will truly enjoy the almost daily viewings of Christmas films at the Palace Theatre or Sea of Lights event at the Grapevine Aquarium.
When To Visit
Since Grapevine, Texas is a suburban destination the city is quite tame throughout the year. It is during the end of the year when travelers will notice an influx of tourists heading for the merry town. As the Christmas capital of Texas, of course, visitors can expect an extended period of holiday decorations and fun. So, around mid-November to late December is the best time to explore Main Street.
Although Grapevine is the pinnacle of Christmas in Texas, it does not offer travelers a white Christmas experience. Texas is usually an incredibly warm state, so travelers should not pack their winter coats if they plan to visit Grapevine. To some, this is a benefit of visiting the historic city and it is an upside to be able to enjoy the best parts of Christmas without the bitter cold that usually accompanies the season. Travelers can expect temperatures between 45 and 70 degrees in December.