Dallas Arboretum: 12 Days of Christmas 2024-2025

A Christmas carol comes to life every winter at Dallas Arboretum. The nostalgic holiday exhibit is held in November and December in a spacious 66-acre garden, located on the southeastern shore of White Rock Lake. The park gets transformed into a fairytale land with 25-ft-tall Victorian-style gazebos, dedicated to the famous song 12 Days of Christmas.

Gazebos

Each lavishly decorated and extravagant gazebo is dedicated to one of the days from the Christmas carol. Costumed characters and animals are showcased inside lit-up gazebos, protected by glass. Meet 12 drummers, two turtle doves, three French hens, and many others! The site looks especially magical in the evening when the garden and gazebos are illuminated with over one million lights.

DeGolyer House

Attendees can also visit the historic DeGolyer House, decorated by designer Michael Hamilton. The annual Christmas exhibit is open daily and every Monday–Wednesday evening, beginning November 8. DeGolyer House is the 21,000-square-foot mansion, which belonged to Mr. and Mrs. Everette DeGolyer. The mansion serves as the centerpiece of the beautiful garden, with a fountain and ample space for seasonal and perennial blooms. This house is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as well as the Texas Register of Historic Places. After the tour, visitors can relax in the DeGolyer Restaurant.

Admission and Hours

Admission to 12 Days of Christmas evening exhibit is $14 for non-members and $12 for those who have a membership with the Dallas Arboretum. Available time slots are 6 pm, 6:30 pm, and 7 pm.

Christmas Village

The Christmas Village, opening after Thanksgiving, contributes to the holiday atmosphere in the garden. It features special entertainment, visits with Santa Claus, gift-shopping, and food.