The holiday season in McKinney is pure magic — twinkling lights, cozy cocoa, and family traditions that make memories to last all year. Macaroni KID McKinney is your go-to guide for everything merry and bright — from festive events and dazzling light displays to Santa visits and local holiday fun. Explore our list below and make this a season your family will never forget.
Bookmark this guide and check back often — we’ll keep adding new events and activities all season long!
 Tim Mossholder | Canva |
Must-See Holiday Attractions in McKinney
Discover the best holiday attractions and light displays that make McKinney shine this season.
Home for the Holidays: A McKinney Christmas 🎄
Location: Historic Downtown McKinney, 111 N. Tennessee St.McKinney TX 75069
Highlights:
📅 Event Info
- Dates: Nov 28–30
- Location: Historic Downtown McKinney
- Admission: Free
🎄 Main Attractions
- Tree Lighting Ceremony – Friday, 6:15 p.m.
- Carousel & kids’ rides
- Visits & letters to Santa
- Crafts and family fun
🛍️ Local Charm
- Shop small with Downtown Dollars
- Holiday lights, local food, and live entertainment
💡 Tips
- Arrive early for the tree lighting
- Expect crowds Saturday; lighter Sunday
- Dress warm for evening events
2025 McKinney Parade of Lights 🎄
Location: Historic Downtown McKinney, 111 N. Tennessee St.McKinney TX 75069
Highlights:
📅 Date: Saturday, December 13, 2025
🕕 Time: 6:00 p.m.
📍 Location: Downtown McKinney (staging at Finch Park)
🎨 Theme:“Christmas Around the World”
✨ Event Highlights
- Dazzling lighted floats and festive music through historic downtown
- Free trolley service (5–9 p.m.) from First Baptist Church to Mitchell Park
- Float judging starts at 4:30 p.m.; registration closes Dec 1
- Supports McKinney Rotary community programs
💡 Tips
- Arrive early or use the trolley — parking fills fast
- Dress warm and bring chairs or blankets for viewing
- Walkers discouraged for parade participants (long route)
 Raven GS | Canva |
Upcoming Holiday Events and Santa Visits in McKinney
Looking for parades, tree lightings, Santa photo ops, and holiday markets? We’ve got you covered! These family-friendly holiday events in McKinney are the perfect way to celebrate the season.
Friday, December 12th
Saturday, December 13th
- Pancakes with Santa 🎅
- Holidays at The Heard
- Reinsteer on The Square-Celina 🎄
- Annual Ugly Sweater Party @ TUPPS 🎄
Sunday, December 14th
Friday, December 19th
Saturday, December 20th
- Photos with Santa in Celina
- 'Tis the Season- Free Christmas Band Concert 🎄
- In the Wild Holiday Round Up @ Edward's Ranch 🎄
We do our best to verify event details, but always double-check before heading out as organizers may change plans without notifying us.
 Jill Wellington | Canva |
More Holiday and Winter Fun in McKinney
There’s so much happening this winter! Explore even more ways to make the season special in upcoming articles and guides:
- Free Personalized Santa Letter
- Hanukkah Events in McKinney
- Kwanzaa Celebrations in McKinney
- McKinney Holiday Gift Guide
- Best Holiday Light Displays Near McKinney
- Where to Donate or Volunteer This Holiday Season
- Holiday Craft Fairs and Markets
- Santa Sightings in McKinney
- Grinch Sightings in McKinney
- Where to Cut Your Own Christmas Tree
- Holiday Pet Photo Opps
- Best Winter Activities for Families
Share the Holiday Spirit
Hosting a family-friendly holiday event in McKinney? Submit it to our calendar so we can share it with local families!
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