Holiday traditions have a way of sticking with us—those once-a-year outings we looked forward to as kids and now can’t wait to experience again with our own children. For four decades, Holiday in the Park at Six Flags Over Texas has been one of the region’s most beloved holiday traditions for countless families. And this year, as the event marks its 40th anniversary, it strikes a rare balance: honoring the nostalgia that so many remember while introducing new surprises and magic for the next generation of families to experience.
The event returns to the park through December 31 with millions of sparkling lights, new shows, festive treats and even nightly snowfall. Here’s what families can expect at this milestone celebration—which is bigger, brighter and snowier than ever before—and why it continues to rank among the area’s favorite holiday outings.
A Walk Through Winter Wonderland
The moment you step onto Merry Main Street, it’s clear this isn’t the Six Flags you visit any other time of year. Millions of shimmering lights, hundreds of live Christmas trees, sparkling décor and festive music transform the park into a full-scale, immersive holiday dreamscape. And yes—snow falls here every night.
This year also brings the debut of Christmastime Keepsakes, the park’s first-ever holiday store filled with ornaments, gifts and charming little treasures. It’s the kind of place where your child will inevitably find “the thing” they must add to the tree this year—and let’s be honest, you’ll probably say yes.
Shows That Bring the Season to Life at Holiday in the Park
Holiday in the Park has always been known for its entertainment, but the 40th anniversary brings fresh energy. The biggest new addition is Tinker’s Toy Factory, a cirque-style show in the newly renovated Southern Palace. Think daring acrobatics meets heartwarming musical.
There are also returning favorites:
- The Mistletones, singing 1940s-style harmonies
- Holly Jolly Trolley, which feels like a rolling holiday musical
- ’Twas a Merry Mishap, a funny twist on the classic Christmas poem
- And the Looney Tunes Holidaze Dance Party, which is exactly what it sounds like—chaotic, loud, and totally fun for little ones
If your family tends to rush from ride to ride, consider slowing down this year. Grabbing a warm drink and catching a show might just give you the coziest break of the night.
Holiday Magic from Around the World
One of the most meaningful parts of the experience is Holidays Around the World, a cultural showcase with displays celebrating global traditions. This includes an all-new life-size Nativity scene and vibrant holiday installations that reflect celebrations from many different cultures.
It’s a nice little reminder—especially for kids—that while we’re baking cookies and decorating the tree, there are countless other traditions and celebrations happening around the world at the exact same time.
Food Worth Planning Around
If your family measures holiday success by the number of snacks consumed (no judgment here), this might be your favorite part. You can make your own treats—like gooey s’mores at the fire pits and the decorate-your-own cookies at Mrs. Claus’ Cookie Kitchen—and you can indulge in a menu of truly decadent holiday-inspired dishes and desserts.
How about chicken wings with cranberry BBQ sauce and sweet potato fries dusted with cinnamon sugar? Follow that up with a dessert of gingerbread churros and pumpkin spice beignets. Then if you still have room, take a red velvet hot chocolate, seasonal mocktail or adult beverage to go.
Are these treats over the top? Yes. Will your children talk about them for days? Also yes.
Memories Between the Rides
Even with all the lights and shows, Six Flags hasn’t forgotten the thrill-seekers. Many of the park’s iconic rides stay open through the winter, giving families the unique chance to ride roller coasters under twinkling lights. There’s something undeniably fun about hearing holiday music right before you’re launched into a loop. And there’s plenty for the littles too—from a carousel to a mini train ride and more.
But between the rides, it’s often the quieter moments that linger. Gathering around the fire to warm your hands or finding Santa in his workshop and trying—just for a moment—to freeze time as he leans down to listen to your child’s wish.
Holiday in the Park brings big shows and bright displays, but many parents find the most memorable moments are in the in-between. It’s why families come back year after year—and why this event continues to top so many local holiday must-do lists.
Planning Your Visit to Holiday in the Park
Holiday in the Park runs on select nights through December 31. Before heading out, check showtimes and schedules so you don’t miss the nightly tree lighting—one of the simplest but most beautiful moments of the night.
Guests can enjoy unlimited visits to Holiday in the Park with the 2026 Gold Membership for as low as $7.25 per month (after $20 initiation fee). The Gold Membership also includes unlimited visits to Six Flags Over Texas for the remainder of this year and all of 2026, as well as Hurricane Harbor Arlington, free general parking, merchandise and food discounts and more. For park hours, entertainment schedules and ticket information, visit sixflags.com.
DFWContent Studio for Six Flags Over Texas
Images and video courtesy of Six Flags Over Texas
