Home for the Holidays – Festival Info
Plan your visit to Home for the Holidays in Historic Downtown McKinney. This page includes essential details such as festival hours, parking and transportation, maps, and frequently asked questions to help you enjoy a smooth and festive weekend.
Dates: November 27 – 29, 2026 | Admission: Free | Location: Historic Downtown McKinney
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Festival Hours & Admission
Home for the Holidays takes place over Thanksgiving weekend in Historic Downtown McKinney and is free to attend.
Festival Hours:
Friday, November 27: 10:30 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Saturday, November 28: 10:30 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Sunday, November 29: 12 – 5 p.m.
Admission: Free and open to the public
Location: Historic Downtown McKinney
Community Tree Lighting:
Friday at 6:15 p.m. in Historic Downtown McKinney
Full details are available on the Events & Holiday Experiences page.
Parking & Transportation
Public parking is available in lots surrounding Historic Downtown McKinney. Streets within the festival footprint will be closed to vehicle traffic, so visitors should plan to park nearby and walk into the event.
For parking locations and general guidance, visit the Downtown Parking webpage.
Complimentary Shuttle Service
A free shuttle provides convenient transportation between the designated shuttle lot and Historic Downtown McKinney, especially during peak hours.
Shuttle Parking Location:
First McKinney Baptist Church
1615 W. Louisiana St., McKinney
(Near Hwy 75 and West Louisiana Street)
Shuttle Hours:
Friday: 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Shuttles run approximately every 15 minutes and provide continuous round-trip service.
Festival Map
A downloadable festival map highlighting stages, activity zones, shuttle stops, and key locations will be available closer to the event. The map is designed to help guests easily navigate the walkable downtown footprint.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions below to help plan your visit to Home for the Holidays.
What should I do if I lose something or get separated from my group?
Lost and Found and the Found Children/Lost Parents area will be located at the designated event information location in Historic Downtown McKinney. Event staff and volunteers can assist if you need help.
Where can I find restrooms, ATMs, and first aid?
Restrooms are located throughout the festival area. ATMs are available at select bars and restaurants in Historic Downtown McKinney. First aid assistance is available onsite during festival hours.
Is Home for the Holidays accessible for guests with disabilities?
Yes. The festival takes place on public streets and sidewalks in Historic Downtown McKinney and is wheelchair accessible. Accessible parking and routes are available throughout the area.
Are strollers and wagons allowed?
Yes. Strollers and wagons are welcome throughout the festival area.
Is Home for the Holidays family-friendly?
Yes. Home for the Holidays is designed for all ages and features family-friendly entertainment, visits with Santa, children’s activities, costumed characters, and festive experiences throughout downtown.
What types of activities are available at Home for the Holidays?
The festival features live holiday music, seasonal performances, family activities, visits with Santa, children’s arts and crafts, a petting zoo, a carousel and Ferris wheel, festive photo opportunities, and holiday shopping and dining throughout Historic Downtown McKinney.
Are pets or service animals allowed?
Service animals and service animals in training are welcome. Pets are allowed in outdoor areas but must be kept on a leash at all times. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets and should be mindful of crowds and noise.
Can I drink alcohol while attending the festival?
Yes. Historic Downtown McKinney is part of the Downtown Cultural District, which allows for the public consumption of alcohol within designated areas.
Alcoholic beverages must be purchased from a licensed downtown restaurant, winery, or authorized festival vendor and may be consumed while walking, shopping, or sitting within the Cultural District.
Where is alcohol not allowed?
Alcohol is not permitted in certain areas, including city-owned parking garages, some city parks, and specific city facilities. Please follow posted signage and guidance from event staff.
What items are not allowed at Home for the Holidays?
For safety reasons, the following items are not permitted within the festival area:
- Coolers
- Outside alcohol not purchased from a licensed downtown business or authorized festival vendor
- Weapons
- Drones
- Skateboards, scooters, or similar devices
- Unauthorized sales or solicitations
Is smoking or vaping allowed?
Smoking or vaping is not allowed near festival tents, activity areas, or business entrances.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Home for the Holidays is a rain-or-shine event. Some activities or performances may be delayed or canceled if weather conditions become unsafe for attendees, staff, or performers.
What are my parking and transportation options?
Public parking is available throughout Historic Downtown McKinney, with multiple lots surrounding the festival area. A complimentary shuttle service is offered on Friday and Saturday to assist with transportation during peak hours.
What forms of payment are accepted?
Most vendors and downtown businesses accept credit and debit cards, and some may also accept cash. Availability may vary by vendor.
Event Opportunities
Interested in getting involved in Downtown McKinney events? From vendors and performers to volunteers and sponsors, there are many ways to participate in our community-focused events throughout the year. Visit our Event Opportunities page to learn more and get started.
