TCU’s annual Christmas tree lighting

The main event of the holiday season on TCU’s campus took place at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 28 in the Campus Commons. 

The event featured Aaron Tveit, a Tony Award-winning Broadway and movie actor. 

Aaron Tveit is known for originating the roles of Gabe in “Next to Normal,” Frank Abagnale, Jr. in “Catch Me If You Can,” and Christian in “Moulin Rouge!” on Broadway. He is also known for his appearances in film & TV, including “Schmigadoon!,” “Gossip Girl,” “American Horror Story,” “Grease Live!,” “Les Misérables” and “Graceland.”

“The Christmas tree lighting is one of my favorite parts of the fall semester,” Ashley McCarthy, a senior biology major, said prior to the event. “I am especially excited this year because Aaron Tveit is performing.”

Other highlights of the event included photo opportunities with both SuperFrog Santa and North Pole Santa, free refreshments, food trucks and a fireworks show.

Trans-Siberian Orchestra: “The Ghosts of Christmas Eve” Concert

The Trans-Siberian Orchestra will perform a Christmas concert at Dickies Arena on Dec. 8.

The doors for the concert will open at 2:00 p.m. and the concert will begin at 3:00 p.m.

Tickets can be purchased here.

Lightscape Holiday Show at the Fort Worth Botanical Garden

Ring in the holiday season at the Fort Worth Botanical Garden’s second annual Lightscape Holiday Show from Nov. 17 to Jan. 1.

The event’s “TCU Night” is on Nov. 30. You can get discounted tickets for this night by using the promo code FROGS.

According to the Botanical Garden website, Lightscape 2023 will feature an all-new “Christmas village,” fire pits, s’more roasting, hot cocoa, holiday music and photo opportunities with Santa Claus on peak nights. 

“There were an absurd amount of gorgeous lights every step of the way, making it the best way to start the Christmas season,” sophomore musical theatre major Logan Lowery said. “Such a great family event, date idea, or night on the town.”

Tickets are required for admittance. 

Visit Casa Mañana to catch a holiday musical performance

“The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical” runs from Nov. 24 to Dec. 23.

The show follows the mischievous Herdmans, the “worst kids in the world,” who disrupt a church Christmas pageant for free snacks. Grace, the novice director, must choose between removing them to prevent a disaster or letting them participate, risking the pageant becoming the worst in history.

Andrew Nicholas, a 2023 TCU alum, is performing in the male ensemble of the production.

“The show is filled with heart and some of the best performers this town has to offer,” Nicholas said. “It will make you laugh, cry and dance in your seat.”

The performance is appropriate for all ages. Sensory-friendly performances are offered as well. 

Tickets can be purchased here.

Christmas in the Stockyards & Holiday Parade

Celebrate the holidays at the 21st annual Christmas in the Stockyards! The event features an ice rink, photos with Cowboy Santa, story time with Mrs. Claus and more. 

The Stockyards is also hosting a holiday celebration parade which will include horses, antique automobiles, military units, marching bands and more. 

These events will take place on Dec. 3 from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. The parade will begin at 4:00 p.m.

Visit Bass Hall for a holiday dance performance

Texas Ballet Theater will present “The Nutcracker” at Bass Hall from Dec. 8 to Dec. 24. 

 “The Nutcracker” is a popular and beloved holiday ballet performed worldwide, traditionally during the Christmas season.

The ballet tells the story of a young girl named Clara who receives a nutcracker doll as a Christmas gift. The ballet unfolds as Clara’s magical journey begins, taking her to the Land of Sweets where she encounters various enchanting characters, including the Sugar Plum Fairy.

Tickets can be purchased here.