12 December 15-21, 2022 dallasobserver.com DALLAS OBSERVER Classified | MusiC | dish | Culture | unfair Park | Contents With Bells On The coolest holiday events, from Drag Bingo to Swiftiemas. by Madalene Garcia, Merritt Martin and eva raGGio D on’t ask how it got here so fast, but the holidays officially be- gan when you took that final bite of turkey last week. So, ready or not, you’ve got to fall in line with the rest of society and give a warm welcome back to red and green every- thing, stuffy company holiday parties and hearing “All I Want for Christmas” over and over and over again. ‘Tis the damn season, gals and pals, so there’s nothing to do but en- joy it and attend any of the events below around North Texas. Elf Movie Party at the alamo drafthouse Dec. 18 and 24, variouse locations The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loudly at this holiday watch party — no cotton-headed ninny muggings energy al- lowed! Ticket buyers will view the now-classic Christmas movie and get themed props such as their own elf hat and a smell- along card, and even get to compete in a gift wrap-off. Madalene Garcia Snow day Daily until Dec. 24, 13350 Dallas Parkway One of the greatest Christmas traditions is taking a photo with Santa, and the Galle- ria Mall’s pop-up Snow Day has five differ- ent interactive rooms for selfies, where you can also visit Santa. With tickets starting at $19.99 (and that’s only for children under 3), it really might be cheaper to fly to the North Pole. But if you believe a picture is worth a thousand Instagram likes, park in the mall’s Blue and Purple garages next to Banana Republic, and you’ll find Snow Day on the first floor. eva raGGiO vitruvian lights Daily, until Jan. 1, 3699 Vitruvian Way Addison’s Vitruvian Park offers the 10th season of Vitruvian Lights every night from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. through Jan. 1. Stroll through the glowing wonderland for free with family and pets (leashed ... the pets, that is) and take in the multi-hued magic on the daily. There are special nights offering live music and food trucks throughout the season. Merritt Martin dallas Zoo lights Through Jan. 1, 650 S. R.L. Thornton Freeway This classic holiday zoo moment is back, but this year as a walk-through event. Visitors will feel spirited as ever on account of the one million lights adorning the place, intimate ani- mal chats and experiences, after-hours access to rides on the carousel and mini-train, and special nights such as adults-only and mem- bers-only. Madalene Garcia texas christkindl Market Through Dec. 23, North Plaza at Globe Life Field, Arlington When you can’t be in Europe to visit its hol- iday markets, having a little German Christ- mas spirit at home is the next best thing. Shoppers will find gifts and German food and drinks and can take in musical performances from local choirs and bands at the Texas Christkindl Market. Kids will have a jolly time when they find the Kinder Kids Root Beer Garden and participate in reindeer games and a wood craft painting workshop. MG the light Park Daily, through Jan. 1, 1800 E. Lamar Blvd., Arlington Take advantage of lower gas prices and pile your family and furry ones into the car for an exciting drive-thru light show that will inject you with a hefty dose of holiday spirit. Through the windows of your ride, take in millions of bright lights and catch a vibe from the DJ’s Christmas music as you cruise through a holiday wonderland. Gen- eral admission starts at $39 per car, but prices vary per date, so get your tickets sooner rather than later. MG Holidays at Heritage Fridays and Saturdays, through Dec.17, 217 S. Main St., Irving The month of December can become a blur of gift shopping, work parties and deco- rating around the house. Thankfully, the city of Irving is hosting three weekends of festiv- ities, so no one has any reason to miss out. Attendees can take part in the parade and tree-lighting ceremony, stroll through a free light display at Centennial Park, enjoy holi- day performances and movie nights and even snap a photo with Santa. MG Merry & bright drone Show Saturdays, Dec. 10 – Dec. 17, 815 S. Main St., Grapevine You have two chances to visit the “Christ- mas Capital of Texas” and gaze upon this drone show that will fill the sky with the spirit of the season. Make sure to arrive early; this event will begin at 8 p.m. sharp and lasts only 8 to 9 minutes, so there’s not much time to be late. MG dallasites101 Holiday Wreath Making Party Tuesday, Dec. 6, 2633 Main St., No. 150 Calling all DIY queens! This is the time of year that you were made for, so put on your crafty crowns, search through your Pinterest boards and head over to this adorable Deep El- lum store to join in an evening of wreath mak- ing hosted by Dallasites101. A ticket to this party includes a drink from the Adventure Bar, and there’s an onsite contest for the best deco- rated wreath, so bring your A game! MG tipsy elf drag bingo Wednesday, Dec. 7, 308 N. Bishop Ave. Santa’s job is to give out the gifts, and Mrs. Claus’ job is to hold down drag bingo at this Bishop Arts holiday pop-up bar (not a bad gig, tbh). For a $10 donation, players can join in a 7 p.m. or 8:30 p.m. game for a chance to win prizes to local businesses. Proceeds go toward Legacy Cares, an organization work- ing to provide mental healthcare, substance abuse treatment and housing services for those with HIV and AIDS.. MG after-School Holiday crafts Dec. 8, Dec. 15 and Dec. 22, 7310 Lake June Road If you’re looking to spark your child’s cre- ativity this December, take them to the Pleas- ant Grove Library every Thursday at 4:30 p.m. to make seasonal crafts for an hour. Chil- dren ages 6–11 can get hands-on and artsy when they design their own pan dulce orna- ment, winter snowglobe, customized picture frame and more. MG a very Merry Swiftiemas Friday, Dec. 9, 2709 Elm St. OK, fellow Swifties, take a quick break from playing Midnights on repeat and get dressed in your most Taylor fit for this evening of trivia, costume/ugly sweater contest, lip-synching scenarios and more. If you’re the truest T. Swizzle fan, you’ll definitely want to be here to mingle among others of your kind, so buy your ticket now and get ready to shake it off at this holiday dance party. MG naughty or nice K-Pop christmas Party Friday, Dec. 9, 11433 Goodnight Lane Every friend group has someone who is currently obsessed with K-pop, so this is a sign to make their day by bringing them to a karaoke bar for a night of special perfor- mances, boba cocktails, poster giveaways, and most of all, a chance to sing their damn heart out. Cover fees are $8 for 18+ and $5 for 21+ and can be purchased on- line. MG Mariachi christmas Dec. 9 – 11, 1440 N. Main St., Fort Worth Here’s your chance to appreciate the vi- brant and deep-rooted Mexican culture in the community at the Artes de La Rosa Cul- tural Center for the Arts. Guests will hear from high school and collegiate mariachis along with main performer Mariachi de Oro. Also on tap is a special presentation by Ballet Folklorico Fort Worth. Tickets have sold out over the years and begin at $25, so don’t hesitate to get yours now. MG ▼ Culture Jimmy Monroe/Audience Media Group Fill up the car with cozy blankets and snacks and even wear your PJs for a ride through a winter wonderland.
