The long Christmas weekend will give Fort Worthians another opportunity to see the slate of continuing holiday events, as well as a variety of new ones. Choices include a well-known comedian, three concerts, screenings of an acclaimed international film, holiday-themed burlesque, another Nutcracker, a college football bowl game, and a chance to get a little crazy at an iconic sports venue.
Below are the best ways to spend your precious free time this weekend. Want more options? Lucky for you, we have a much longer list of the city's best events. Looking for the best Christmas lights this weekend? Find those lists here and here.
Thursday, December 21
Ongoing holiday events
There are plenty of great holiday events continuing this weekend and beyond around Fort Worth, including Lightscape at Fort Worth Botanic Garden, Texas Ballet Theater's The Nutcracker, The Christmas Carol Experience, Casa Mañana's The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical, and Jubilee Theatre's A Gospel Black Nativity. Check out the full calendar for all ongoing holiday events.
Improv Arlington presents Mark Curry
Mark Curry is an American actor, comedian, and host best known as the star of the ABC sitcom Hangin' with Mr. Cooper and as one of the various hosts of the syndicated series It's Showtime at the Apollo. He'll perform five times through Saturday at Improv Arlington.
Grady Spencer & The Work in concert
Fort Worth band Grady Spencer & The Work seems to have a tradition of playing a hometown show at the end of the year, as they've done so the past four years running. The rock band is so ingrained in the city that they even recorded their latest album, Live from Tannahill's Tavern, here. Showing they know how to spread the love, this concert will be at Billy Bob's Texas.
Friday, December 22
Magnolia at the Modern: Fallen Leaves
In modern-day Helsinki, two lonely souls searching for love meet by chance in a local karaoke bar. However, the pair's path to happiness is beset by numerous obstacles, from lost phone numbers to mistaken addresses, alcoholism, and a charming stray dog. Finland's official 2023 submission for the Academy Awards, Fallen Leaves - which is in Finnish with English subtitles - will screen four times through Saturday at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth.
Nightshade Burlesque presents Nightshade Before Christmas
Nightshade Before Christmas, a festive evening featuring Marquis of Vaudeville live, will feature burlesque acts dedicated to Christmas Burton films and live music full of whimsy and mischief. The event from Nightshade Burlesque will also feature themed cocktails and photo opportunities. It takes place at Tulips FTW.
Avant Chamber Ballet presents The Nutcracker
Avant Chamber Ballet’s sparkling production of Paul Mejia’s The Nutcracker with live orchestra features Tchaikovsky’s timeless score, ACB’s professional dancers, lush sets, and costumes. There will be performances on both Friday and Saturday at Will Rogers Auditorium.
Kevin Fowler in concert
Texas country music singer Kevin Fowler has been trying to make his way in the industry for over 20 years, releasing nine albums since 2000. He's slowly but surely made his way up the charts, including with his well-received 2019 album, Barstool Stories. He'll play at Billy Bob's Texas as part of his Deck the Dancehalls Tour.
Saturday, December 23
Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl: James Madison vs. Air Force
College football bowl season is starting to heat up, and TCU's Amon Carter Stadium will once again play host to the Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl. This year's game will be unique, as the James Madison Dukes, who technically weren't eligible for a bowl as this is only their second year in Division 1 football, will bring their stellar 11-1 record to Fort Worth to take on the Air Force Falcons.
Jared's Epic Blaster Battle: Holiday Edition 2
Jared's Epic Blaster Battle will hold a "Holiday Edition" version of the largest foam dart blaster battle of all time. The event will feature an all-new theme, music, special guests, and special battles. Visitors can join team red or team green and get ready to have a blast on the climate-controlled turf of AT&T Stadium in Arlington.
Tanner Usrey in concert
Also making a habit of playing in Fort Worth in December is Prosper native Tanner Usrey, an emerging singer/songwriter with a vocal styling all his own. The soulful, Americana-rock artist puts forth heart-wrenching lyrics and soul-touching vocals, notably in his single "The Light," which appeared in the Season 4 finale of Yellowstone. He'll play at Billy Bob's Texas in support of his new album, Crossing Lines.
Avant Chamber Ballet presents The Nutcracker at Will Rogers Auditorium on December 22 and 23.
Leave the car at home and ride the TEXRail.
Courtesy photo