Home for the Holidays – Events & Holiday Experiences
Home for the Holidays brings the magic of the season to Historic Downtown McKinney with festive traditions, live entertainment, and family-friendly experiences throughout Thanksgiving weekend. Stroll the decorated streets, enjoy holiday music, take part in seasonal activities, and gather with the community to celebrate the start of the holidays.
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- Community Tree Lighting
- Live Entertainment & Performances
- Santa & Holiday Characters
- Kids & Family Activities
- Holiday Photo Moments
- Shopping & Seasonal Traditions
Community Tree Lighting
The Community Tree Lighting is the signature kickoff moment of Home for the Holidays and a beloved downtown tradition.
This ceremony brings the community together to celebrate the season with the lighting of a real Christmas tree in the heart of Historic Downtown McKinney. The Tree Lighting marks the official start of the holiday festivities and creates a memorable moment for families, friends, and visitors of all ages.
Those interested in supporting this tradition can contribute to the Community Christmas Tree fundraising campaign. Donations of any size help bring the tree to McKinney each year.
Live Entertainment & Performances
Festive entertainment fills Downtown McKinney throughout the weekend, creating a warm and lively holiday atmosphere.
Entertainment offerings may include traditional live Christmas music, holiday-themed performances, and seasonal musical acts that add to the charm of the walkable downtown experience.
A Christmas Carol – McKinney Repertory Theatre
Step inside the historic Courthouse Theater for a timeless holiday tradition as McKinney Repertory Theatre presents A Christmas Carol.
This classic story comes to life on stage with festive performances offered throughout Home for the Holidays weekend. Showtimes vary, and tickets are required.
Guests are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance and plan showtimes around their downtown visit.
Santa & Holiday Characters
Visits with Santa and appearances by holiday characters are a highlight of Home for the Holidays, especially for families with young children.
Guests can enjoy festive meet-and-greet opportunities, cheerful interactions, and memorable holiday moments with Santa and costumed seasonal characters throughout the weekend.
Kids & Family Activities
Home for the Holidays offers a variety of hands-on activities and festive attractions designed especially for children and families.
- A snowy Snow Hill for winter-themed fun
- A classic carousel
- A towering Ferris wheel with views of the decorated downtown
- Festive train rides for children and families
- Model train displays that delight guests of all ages
- Children’s arts and crafts
- Interactive holiday activities
- A petting zoo experience
- Additional seasonal attractions throughout downtown
These activities are designed to create memorable moments for families while keeping the experience playful, welcoming, and full of holiday cheer.
Holiday Photo Moments
Downtown McKinney transforms into a festive backdrop for holiday photos during Home for the Holidays.
Guests are invited to capture seasonal memories at special photo moments throughout downtown, including life-sized Holiday Post Cards, decorated streetscapes, and festive seasonal displays.
Shopping & Seasonal Traditions
Holiday shopping and seasonal traditions are at the heart of the Home for the Holidays experience.
Home for the Holidays takes place during Small Business Saturday, making it the perfect time to shop local and support the small businesses that give Downtown McKinney its unique character. With over 180 locally owned shops and restaurants, visitors can browse for one-of-a-kind gifts, enjoy festive window displays, and discover seasonal finds throughout the walkable historic district.
From boutiques and specialty shops to cafés, bakeries, and restaurants offering seasonal menus, Downtown McKinney invites guests to slow down, shop small, and celebrate the holiday season in a meaningful way.
