Nov 19, 2025
·Mary Callahan
Every Thanksgiving, the city of Dallas transforms into a vibrant hub of football, festivities and family time anchored by the marquee Dallas Cowboys matchup at AT&T Stadium in Arlington. From tailgates in the shadow of the stadium to tree-lightings, holiday light displays, and big-flavor dinners across Uptown, Downtown and Bishop Arts, Dallas serves up a long weekend that’s equal parts game day and getaway. Whether you're heading in for the big game, planning a long weekend of celebrations, or just looking to explore Dallas with those extra holiday hours, here’s your ultimate guide.
Catch a Game, Show or Concert
Thanksgiving weekend in Dallas means wall-to-wall entertainment. Beyond the Cowboys’ annual showdown, the calendar is packed with everything from pro hockey and college football to live music, ballet, and rodeo. Dallas balances high-energy sports with cultural flair. So whether you’re cheering from the bleachers or settling into a velvet theater seat, there’s something for everyone this holiday weekend.
Thursday, November 27, 2025
Thanksgiving Day in Dallas is synonymous with Cowboys football. In 2025, the Cowboys host the Kansas City Chiefs at AT&T Stadium. It’s not just a game—it’s a full-on holiday experience: tailgating around the stadium, pre-game energy, and the kind of crowd that makes the holiday feel electric.
Kansas City Chiefs vs. Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium, 3:30 p.m. CT
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Friday, November 28, 2025
If your group isn’t all-in for football, the broader Dallas-Fort Worth area has plenty going on—rodeo, ballet, arena shows and more. Thanksgiving Friday is when Dallas truly lights up. From Fort Worth’s western flair to Dallas’s sleek city venues, the entertainment options span every genre. Expect bustling crowds downtown and a festive post-Thanksgiving buzz everywhere you go.
Stockyards Championship Rodeo at Cowtown Coliseum, 1:30 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. CT
A Classic Christmas Experience - Dallas at Dallas Midtown, 5:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m., 7:30 p.m. & 8:30 p.m. CT
William Clark Green at House of Blues Dallas, 7 p.m. CT
Dallas Stars vs. Utah Mammoth at American Airlines Center, 7 p.m. CT
David Byrne at Music Hall at Fair Park, 8 p.m. CT
OsamaSon at South Side Ballroom, 8 p.m. CT
Texas Ballet Theater Presents The Nutcracker at Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House, 8 p.m. CT
Saturday, November 29, 2025
Saturday in Dallas brings a mix of Texas tradition and holiday magic. It’s the perfect day to experience both Fort Worth’s cowboy culture and Dallas’s performing arts. Catch the TCU Horned Frogs playing in Fort Worth, then head back to the city for live music or a night at the ballet. Downtown Dallas glows with lights, and many venues run double showtimes so you can fit in more than one event.
Stockyards Championship Rodeo at Cowtown Coliseum, 1:30 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. CT
Texas Ballet Theater Presents The Nutcracker at Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House, 2 p.m. & 8 p.m. CT
TCU Horned Frogs vs. Cincinnati Bearcats at Amon G. Carter Stadium
A Classic Christmas Experience - Dallas at Dallas Midtown, 5:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m., 7:30 p.m. & 8:30 p.m. CT
David Byrne at Music Hall at Fair Park, 8 p.m. CT
Sunday, November 30, 2025
Sunday wraps the long weekend with concerts, hockey, and family-friendly movie nostalgia. If you’ve been out late the night before, this is your day for brunch, afternoon shows, and one last evening of entertainment before travel day. The city slows down just enough to feel cozy—perfect for a final toast of the holiday weekend.
Texas Ballet Theater Presents The Nutcracker at Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House, 2 p.m. CT
A Classic Christmas Experience - Dallas at Dallas Midtown, 5:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m., 7:30 p.m. & 8:30 p.m. CT
Dallas Stars vs Ottawa Senators at American Airlines Center, 5 p.m. CT
A Nostalgic Night with Macaulay Culkin: Home Alone 35th Anniversary at Texas Trust CU Theatre, 7:30 p.m. CT
Katseye at The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory, 8 p.m. CT
* Click here for more Dallas-based sporting events, live shows and concerts.
* Pro tip: Use SeatGeek’s ticket comparison tools to find the best deals on game seats and show events. Check sections and view lines before you buy.
Explore Dallas’ Landmarks and Museums
Thanksgiving weekend gives you the time to explore beyond the stadium. The city’s cultural scene is rich and varied, with everything from outdoor gardens to world-class art museums just minutes apart. When you need a break from football and crowds, spend a few hours strolling through local landmarks or soaking in some history.
Visit the Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden for seasonal decor and a serene escape from the game-day buzz. Be sure to check out their “12 Days of Christmas” holiday display.
For a local-history pick-me-up, stop by the Dallas Historical Society or wander through neighborhoods like Deep Ellum or Bishop Arts for unique architecture and local flavor.
Eat (and Drink) Like a Local
Dallas serves up big flavor along with big game energy. Thanksgiving weekend is the best time to experience the city’s mix of classic comfort food and modern cuisine.
For a special Thanksgiving dinner outing: Check out restaurants such as Ferah Tex-Med Kitchen in Garland and JOA Grill, which both offer festive menu options (think turkey + Texas flavor).
For a fine dining sit-down: The Mansion Restaurant (at Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek) offers a three-course Thanksgiving menu from 11 am to 8 pm at ~$160 per adult.
If you’re prepping at home but want help: Cafe Momentum offers a Thanksgiving meal for four (includes turkey breast, sides, and dessert).
When it’s time for a nightcap: Head to Monarch or Kessaku at The National for skyline views and craft cocktails, or visit Midnight Rambler at The Joule for a cool, speakeasy-style finish to your evening.
Don’t Miss the Thanksgiving Traditions
Even if you’re not at the game, the city has holiday perks worth planning for.
Dallas YMCA Turkey Trot: A morning 5K/8-mile run/walk through downtown to kick off the day.
Visit Thanks-Giving Square in Downtown Dallas, a reflective downtown park dedicated to gratitude and calm.
Head to the Dallas Zoo for nighttime walk-throughs with giant holiday light displays.
Take a Little Day Trip
If you’ve got extra time and energy, Thanksgiving weekend is ideal for a quick Dallas-area adventure. Within an hour’s drive, you’ll find charming small towns, state parks, and holiday attractions.
Drive out to nearby neighborhoods like the historic Fort Worth Stockyards for a taste of Western heritage (think cattle drives, saloons and classic Texas vibes).
Take a hike through Lake Mineral Wells State Park, a relaxing escape about 1.5 hours from Dallas.
Check out Terrell, Texas, a historic town just 40 minutes east of Dallas. This is good for a slower-paced half-day of historic sights and small-town feel.
Plan Your Weekend with SeatGeek
Whether you’re grabbing tickets to the Chiefs-Cowboys showdown or booking a live show for Saturday night, SeatGeek makes it easy. Compare listings, look for Deal Scores, and pay attention to seating zones for the best view
Dallas’ Thanksgiving weekend offers the full spectrum: high-energy football, local flavor, comfy downtime and holiday fun. Pack your game face, schedule in a few non-game outings and get ready for a Texas-sized Thanksgiving.