Free & Fun Events in Arlington Dec. 10-16, 2025

Published on December 10, 2025

Photo from the Holiday Lights Parade in Arlington with the Free & Fun in Arlington logo.

By Matthew Boyd, Office of Communication

Let's get holly jolly at these free and fun events scheduled across The American Dream City from Dec. 10-16, 2025. Check back each week for a new list of family-friendly activities!

Holiday Lights Parade

The 21st annual Holiday Lights Parade in Downtown Arlington is set for Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025, with activities starting at 2 p.m. and ending around 9 p.m. Visitors are invited to bring a new toy donation for Mission Arlington. The parade kicks off at 6 p.m. at the intersection of College and South streets and loops around Arlington City Hall and the Downtown Library before ending at College and Abram streets. Announcers will be stationed throughout the route.

Interlochen Lights

The Lights at Interlochen, one of the largest and longest running holiday traditions in North Texas, is back for the 2025 season! Each year, nearly 200 homeowners in this northwest Arlington neighborhood celebrate the season by decorating their homes with festive lights and holiday-themed displays. The public is invited to drive through the neighborhood from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. nightly Dec. 13 through Dec. 25, 2025.

Hot Cocoa with Santa

Join the Arlington Police Department for photos and Hot Cocoa with Santa from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 10 at the Kathryn Wilemon Lake House. This free community event will also feature music, an appearance by The Grinch, and other family-friendly fun!

A Sip of Culture: Holiday Season

Join us for A Sip of Culture, a festive and flavorful journey around the world! This free library program invites you to explore global holiday traditions through the tastes of traditional seasonal drinks. Enjoy warm, spiced, and sweet sips from a variety of cultures while learning about the history and meaning behind each one. Whether it’s a Latin American ponche, European mulled wine (non-alcoholic version), or a creamy Caribbean coquito, there’s something for everyone to discover and enjoy. The event is Thursday, Dec. 11 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Southeast Branch Library.

Noche de Fiesta

It’s almost time for Noche de Fiesta in Arlington! We’re excited to join our community for a joyful evening filled with holiday traditions, music, and family fun. This free celebration has something special for everyone, so bring your loved ones and come enjoy the holiday spirit with at 6:30 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 11 at Canales Furniture (2002 E. Abram St.).

Canines & Coco

Kickstart your Saturday morning with the ultimate combination of hot cocoa, coffee, community, and canine fun with Canines & Coco! This month, Santa Claus will be joining us for self-serve photos with your pups at Downtown Arlington’s Doggie Depot from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., Saturday, Dec. 13! We’re thrilled to offer treats & pup cups, as well as hot chocolate and hot coffee, all generously provided by Arlington Coffee Roasters, to warm the spirits in time for the Holiday season.

Winter Pajama Storytime

Brr! It’s getting chilly! Wear your comfiest pajamas into the library for a cozy winter story with Mrs. Dawn! Enjoy stories, rhymes, songs and a craft before heading to bed on Monday, Dec. 15 from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Southwest Branch Library! The storytime is ideal for children ages 3-8. No registration is required, but will be open on a first come, first served basis and space is limited.