There’s no better place to celebrate Thanksgiving than in Dallas where the holiday is full of cheer, traditional warm and festive experiences and a true sense of Southern hospitality. Thanksgiving is observed annually on the fourth Thursday of November and in 2025, that falls on Nov. 27. On this one-of-a-kind day, Dallas is filled with friends and family, events that are merry and bright and plenty of old school traditions mixed in new school celebrations. From cheering at the iconic Dallas Cowboys Thanksgiving game to wandering in calm areas like Thanks-Giving Square and touring cultural destinations and sampling its incredible holiday meals, there’s something for everyone here.
You’ll enjoy parades, laze in parks, visit the museums if you like, or get a feel for the holidays all over town. And with so much going on, getting around can be a hassle — particularly given the heavy traffic and lack of parking.
And that’s where Limo Service Dallas comes in, making your day better. Let us do the driving (and parking and holiday road madness, etc.) so you can relax with your family and friends.
That’s where Limo Service Dallas makes your day easier. Our professional chauffeurs handle all the driving, parking, and busy holiday roads, so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy every moment with your family and friends.
This guide aims to gather all the necessary information on Things to Do in Dallas on Thanksgiving Day from best events and attractions to dining options, weather advice, tips for visitors and locals – everything you need to know this holiday.
1. Dallas Cowboys Thanksgiving Game
The Dallas Cowboys Thanksgiving Game is the biggest highlight of the day and one of the strongest traditions in the city. Families, friends, and fans from all over the country come to Dallas to enjoy this exciting match.
History of the Cowboys Thanksgiving Game
The Dallas Cowboys have been a Thanksgiving tradition since 1966. What started as a special holiday game has now become one of the biggest football events of the year. Each Thanksgiving, millions of fans watch the Cowboys play on TV, and thousands visit Dallas to enjoy the excitement live at AT&T Stadium. The game brings families together, adds energy to the holiday, and has become a proud part of Dallas culture.
Where Does the Cowboys Thanksgiving Game Take Place?
The Dallas Cowboys Thanksgiving game takes place at the famous AT&T Stadium in Arlington. The stadium can hold around 80,000 spectators, and it can even expand to more than 100,000 people for big events. It is known for its huge video screens, modern design, and amazing fan experience. The atmosphere is full of energy, and every seat gives a great view of the field, making it one of the best places in America to enjoy live football.
Who Are the Cowboys Playing This Thanksgiving?
This Thanksgiving, the Dallas Cowboys will play against the Kansas City Chiefs. The game will take place on November 27, 2025, at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington. This matchup is sure to be exciting because both teams have strong players and loyal fans. It’s one of the biggest games of the year and a must-watch for football lovers.
Game Timings, Ticket Tips & Parking Info
1. Game Timings
The Dallas Cowboys Thanksgiving game will start at 3:30 PM on Thursday, November 27, 2025. This time, let’s fans enjoy their Thanksgiving meal before watching the game. Before kickoff, there are fun activities like live shows, player introductions, and halftime entertainment. The stadium fills with energy as everyone gets ready to cheer for the Cowboys in this special holiday event.
2. Ticket Prices
- Average resale ticket price: Around $546 for the 2025 Cowboys Thanksgiving game.
- Cheapest tickets available: About $140 on resale websites.
- Price range: Ticket prices vary a lot based on seat location and demand.
- Tip: Tickets sell out fast, so it’s best to book early to get a good price and seat.
3. Parking Info & Pricing
- AT&T Stadium has about 12,000 official parking spots in its main lots, plus nearly 12,000 more in nearby areas.
- Parking lots usually open 5 hours before the game starts, so fans can arrive early to find a good spot.
- Official on-site parking costs around $35 per car if you buy the pass before game day.
- Parking prices on game day can go up to $40 in some lots.
- Nearby off-site lots run by local businesses may charge between $20 and $60+, depending on distance and demand.
What Happens During Halftime at the Cowboys’ Thanksgiving Game?
Halftime at the Dallas Cowboys Thanksgiving Game is much more than just a break—it’s a full entertainment experience that keeps the excitement alive for everyone in the stadium. This year, fans will be treated to a special performance by Post Malone as part of The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Kickoff Halftime Show.
Alongside the music, halftime gives fans a chance to stretch, grab their favorite snacks, and visit the fan zones around the stadium. It’s also a popular time for families and friends to take photos and soak in the festive spirit before the second half begins.
This halftime show perfectly blends sports and entertainment, making the Dallas Cowboys Thanksgiving Game a complete holiday celebration that goes beyond football.
Travelling Tip: Heading to the Dallas Cowboys Thanksgiving Game, book our SUV or Stretch Limousine service for a stress-free, stylish ride directly to AT&T Stadium. With plenty of space for your group, our Dallas Cowboys transportation ensures you arrive comfortably and on time to enjoy the game.
2. Dallas Thanksgiving Parade
Overview of the Parade
The Dallas Thanksgiving Parade is a joyful and colorful event that brings the whole city together to celebrate the holiday spirit. Every year, the parade features amazing floats, marching bands, dance groups, and fun activities for families and kids.
Location, Time, and What to Expect
The parade usually takes place in downtown Dallas on Thanksgiving morning, starting around 9:00 AM. Visitors can expect a lively and festive atmosphere filled with music, cheer, and lots of smiles.
Floats, Marching Bands, Dancing Groups, Family Fun
The parade shows off beautifully decorated floats themed around Thanksgiving and the holiday season. You will also see talented marching bands from local schools, energetic dance teams, and special guest performers. Kids especially enjoy the balloons, clowns, and interactive fun along the parade route.
Best Viewing Spots
Some of the best spots to watch the parade are along Main Street, near Thanks-Giving Square, and around Dealey Plaza. Arrive early to get a good place and enjoy the full experience.
Tips for Families with Kids
- Bring snacks and water for the little ones.
- Dress warmly if the weather is cool.
- Use strollers or baby carriers to keep kids comfortable during the walk.
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and get the best viewing spot.
- Keep an eye on your children in busy areas.
Travelling Tip: Celebrate the Thanksgiving Parade with friends or family by choosing our Sprinter Vans and Party Bus rentals. These spacious and comfortable vehicles allow everyone to travel together, making the journey as enjoyable as the event itself.
3. Visit Thanksgiving Square Dallas
What is Thanksgiving Square?
Thanksgiving Square is a special public park in downtown Dallas dedicated to gratitude, peace, and unity. It’s a calm and beautiful place where people come to reflect, relax, and celebrate the spirit of thankfulness.
Details About Thanksgiving Tower
At the center of the square stands the tall Thanksgiving Tower, a modern office building that overlooks the park. The tower adds to the peaceful urban setting and makes the area easy to find.
Walkthrough of Thanksgiving Chapel Dallas
Inside the square is the famous Thanksgiving Chapel, a unique spiral-shaped building known for its stunning Glory Window—a colorful stained-glass ceiling that fills the chapel with light. Visitors can enter the chapel anytime to enjoy a quiet moment of prayer, meditation, or simply peaceful reflection.
Meaning Behind the Spiral Roof and Peace Theme
The spiral design of the chapel’s roof represents the journey toward peace and gratitude. It symbolizes how people from all walks of life can come together in harmony. The whole square is designed to inspire calmness and thankfulness in everyone who visits.
Good Spot for Photos and Quiet Time
Thanksgiving Square and its chapel are perfect for taking beautiful photos, especially with the colorful glass ceiling inside the chapel. It’s also a peaceful retreat from the busy city, ideal for those who want a moment of calm during the Thanksgiving celebrations.
Travelling Tips: Travel in style and comfort to Thanksgiving Square with our black car service. Avoid parking hassle and enjoy a peaceful, relaxing ride in Dallas.
Thanksgiving Dining and Catering Options in Dallas
Restaurants Open for Thanksgiving
- Capital Grille in Uptown Dallas offers a fine dining experience with a plated Thanksgiving menu featuring turkey, brioche sage stuffing, and cranberry-pear chutney. It’s perfect for a classic, elegant family celebration.
- Fearing’s Restaurant & Bar at the Ritz-Carlton in Downtown Dallas serves seasonal lunch and dinner with upscale holiday flavors. It’s a great choice for those looking for a luxurious Thanksgiving meal.
- Nobu Dallas, located in Uptown, provides a unique Thanksgiving brunch combining sushi, carving stations, and delicious desserts — ideal for sushi lovers wanting to celebrate differently.
- Y.O. Ranch Steakhouse in Downtown Dallas offers a hearty three-course Thanksgiving meal with family-style sides and festive cocktails, creating a warm and inviting holiday atmosphere.
- Asador at the Renaissance Hotel in Downtown Dallas hosts a Thanksgiving brunch buffet with omelet and turkey carving stations, perfect for families looking for a relaxed holiday meal.
Classic Thanksgiving Dinner
- The Omni Dallas Hotel, located downtown, provides traditional family-style Thanksgiving dinners with plated turkey and classic sides in a welcoming setting, perfect for gathering with loved ones.
- La Parisienne French Bistro in Uptown Dallas offers a French-inspired four-course Thanksgiving meal featuring shrimp bisque, roasted turkey breast, and bourbon pecan pie, blending holiday warmth with elegant flavors.
- In Plano, Dakota’s Steakhouse is a popular brunch spot serving prime rib, filet mignon, and herb-roasted turkey, great for a midday Thanksgiving celebration.
- Le Bilboquet in Downtown Dallas offers a luxurious dining experience with dishes like lobster and caviar alongside traditional Thanksgiving fare for an upscale holiday celebration.
Thanksgiving Buffet Options
- Blue Mesa in Downtown Dallas presents a Southwestern-style buffet with turkey, brisket, glazed ham, street tacos, and a variety of desserts — perfect for those who love bold, diverse flavors.
- Dolce Riviera in Uptown Dallas offers a European-style brunch buffet from late morning to afternoon, featuring carving stations and a wide selection of desserts.
- Commons Club at the Virgin Hotel downtown serves a cozy three-course brunch or dinner with roasted turkey breast and oyster dressing, ideal for a comfortable and tasty Thanksgiving meal.
Thanksgiving Brunch
- CRÚ Food & Wine Bar in Uptown Dallas features a Thanksgiving dinner menu with salad, turkey, salmon, and rich desserts like pumpkin cheesecake, all served in a warm and inviting bistro setting.
- McRae’s American Bistro in Downtown Dallas offers a prix-fixe Thanksgiving lunch with slow-roasted turkey and classic sides, perfect for a midday holiday meal.
- St. Martin’s Wine Bistro in Uptown Dallas serves a Thanksgiving plate with turkey, sweet potato terrine, green beans, and cranberry compote, creating an excellent pairing for wine lovers.
Thanksgiving Catering
- D’Vine Gourmet, serving the Dallas metro area, offers customizable Thanksgiving catering menus suitable for both small family dinners and large gatherings, with options for delivery and pickup.
- The Butcher’s Son in Dallas is known for fresh, high-quality meats and sides, providing complete holiday meals tailored to your preferences.
- Southern Cooking Catering, also in Dallas, specializes in traditional Southern-style Thanksgiving catering with full meal packages that bring comfort and flavor to your holiday table.
Travelling Tip: Arrive in style at top Dallas restaurants with our executive sedan or SUV services, perfect for a relaxing and elegant Thanksgiving dinner.
5. Shopping on Thanksgiving Day in Dallas
Thanksgiving is not just about turkey and football — it’s also the start of the busy holiday shopping season. Many people look for great deals on Thanksgiving Day and get ready for Black Friday sales. If you plan to shop in Dallas on Thanksgiving, here’s what you should know.
Galleria Dallas
Located in North Dallas, Galleria Dallas often opens on Thanksgiving with select stores offering early Black Friday deals. It’s a popular spot for holiday shopping with a mix of luxury and mid-range brands. Not all stores participate in Thanksgiving sales, so it’s best to check ahead for specific store hours and promotions.
NorthPark Center
Situated in Uptown Dallas, NorthPark Center usually remains closed on Thanksgiving Day but opens early on Black Friday. This mall is known for upscale shopping with many designer stores and boutiques, so plan to visit on Black Friday for the best deals.
Stonebriar Centre
Located in Frisco, just north of Dallas, Stonebriar Centre typically opens on Thanksgiving Day with many retailers participating in early Black Friday sales. This mall offers a wide variety of stores, making it a convenient one-stop shopping destination.
The Shops at Legacy
In Plano, The Shops at Legacy usually have some stores open on Thanksgiving, offering limited sales and dining options. It’s a lively outdoor shopping and dining area perfect for those who want to combine shopping with a festive atmosphere.
Coppell Towne Crossing
This shopping center in Coppell tends to have some retailers open on Thanksgiving Day, but sales are generally smaller. It’s a good place for local shopping without the huge crowds seen at larger malls.
Travelling Tip: Avoid parking headaches at busy malls by booking our point-to-point car service to and from Galleria Dallas or Stonebriar Centre.
6. Special Thanksgiving Events in Dallas
Dallas YMCA Turkey Trot
Each Thanksgiving morning, the Dallas YMCA Turkey Trot brings the community together for a fun and healthy start to the holiday. Held at Dallas City Hall, this event offers different race options, including a 5K run/walk and an 8-mile course, so people of all fitness levels can join. Families love the friendly atmosphere, where kids, pets on leashes, and strollers are all welcome. Beyond the race, live music, a costume contest, and fun activities keep the energy high. Most importantly, the proceeds support YMCA programs that help local families throughout the year, making participation a meaningful way to give back.
Operation Turkey Dallas Volunteer Event
For those who want to make a direct impact, Operation Turkey Dallas is a major volunteer-driven event held on Thanksgiving morning. Hundreds of volunteers gather to cook, package, and deliver over 5,000 meals to people in need across the city. This heartwarming effort ensures that even those facing hardships can enjoy a hot, festive meal on Thanksgiving. Anyone can join to help prepare food or deliver meals, making it a wonderful way to connect with the community and spread kindness during the holiday.
Community Meals and Outreach
Several local organizations work hard to make sure no one in Dallas spends Thanksgiving hungry. Groups like Feed the Streetz Outreach host free meal events where community members receive hot dinners and care packages. The Dallas LIFE Recovery Center offers a special “Turkey Fry” event, where volunteers prepare and serve meals, especially welcoming people who are homeless or recovering from difficult situations. These gatherings offer more than food — they provide companionship, warmth, and a sense of belonging during the holiday.
Church Services and Gatherings
Thanksgiving is also a time for reflection and gratitude, and many churches throughout Dallas hold special services or gatherings around the holiday. These events often include prayer, singing, and messages focused on thankfulness and hope. While they may not be heavily advertised, these community gatherings are open to all and offer a peaceful space to connect spiritually and celebrate the true meaning of Thanksgiving.
Travelling Tip: Volunteering at events like Operation Turkey Dallas? Our group transportation services ensure your team travels safely and on time.
7. Family Activities & Attractions in Dallas on Thanksgiving
Dallas Zoo
The Dallas Zoo is a fantastic place to visit on Thanksgiving Day, offering special holiday hours that let families enjoy the park without the usual weekday crowds. Besides seeing over 2,000 animals from around the world, the zoo often decorates for the season and may have holiday-themed activities for kids. It’s a great outdoor option where children can learn about wildlife while getting fresh air and exercise. Be sure to check the zoo’s official website for the latest hours and any special events or ticket requirements on Thanksgiving.
Perot Museum of Nature and Science
For a fun and educational indoor experience, the Perot Museum remains open during Thanksgiving with regular hours. The museum features interactive exhibits on dinosaurs, space, engineering, and more, making it ideal for families looking to escape the cooler weather. Special exhibits and hands-on activities engage kids of all ages, while adults can enjoy fascinating displays about science and technology. Advance ticket booking is recommended during holiday periods to avoid long lines.
Ice Skating Rinks
Dallas lights up the holiday season with several outdoor ice skating rinks that open around Thanksgiving. Popular locations include the rink at Klyde Warren Park in downtown Dallas, known for its festive atmosphere and convenient location near restaurants and shops. Another favorite is the rink at the Galleria Dallas, where shoppers and families can combine skating with holiday shopping. Skating is a fun activity for all ages and a perfect way to enjoy a wintery day in the city. Rental skates are usually available on-site, and it’s wise to arrive early to beat the crowds.
Holiday Light Shows
Thanksgiving week marks the beginning of many dazzling holiday light shows across Dallas. The Dallas Arboretum hosts one of the city’s most popular light displays, with millions of twinkling lights, themed gardens, and festive decorations that create a magical experience for families. Vitruvian Park in Addison also offers impressive light shows with synchronized music, food trucks, and family-friendly entertainment. Many neighborhoods join in with beautiful home displays, making evening drives through decorated areas a fun and free way to enjoy the holiday spirit. Be sure to check the schedules and arrival times, as weekends tend to be busiest.
Travelling Tips: Visiting family-friendly spots like the Dallas Zoo, enjoy a comfortable ride in our black truck SUVs and spacious vehicles perfect for the whole family.
Tips for Traveling in Dallas on Thanksgiving Day
Traffic Conditions
Thanksgiving Day traffic in Dallas can be busy, especially near popular places like AT&T Stadium, shopping malls, and event areas. Expect more cars on the road during the afternoon and early evening when many events and the Cowboys game start.
Best Time to Leave for Events
To avoid heavy traffic, try to leave early in the morning or mid-afternoon before the main rush begins. If you’re going to the Cowboys game or big events, arriving 1–2 hours early helps you find parking and enjoy pre-event activities without stress.
Parking Problems Near Major Places
Parking spots near popular locations like AT&T Stadium, major malls, and event centers fill up fast on Thanksgiving. It’s best to book parking in advance when possible or use parking apps to find available lots. Be ready to walk some distance if parking is far from your destination.
Public Transportation Limitations
Public transportation runs on a limited schedule on Thanksgiving Day. Bus and train services may be less frequent, so plan if you rely on them. Rideshare options like Uber and Lyft can be helpful, but expect higher prices and longer wait times during peak hours.
Limo Service Dallas
Traveling in Dallas on Thanksgiving can be stressful with heavy traffic, parking troubles, and limited public transportation. That’s why choosing Limo Service Dallas is the smartest way to enjoy the holiday. Skip the hassle of driving, parking, and waiting for public transport. With us, you get luxury, safety, and convenience all in one. Book early to secure your ride and travel in style this Thanksgiving!
Why Choose Limo Service Dallas
- Professional Drivers: Our chauffeurs are trained, friendly, and know Dallas roads well to get you there safely and on time.
- Comfort & Luxury: Travel in clean, comfortable vehicles that fit your needs — from sedans to SUVs and sprinter vans.
- Comfortable Transportation: Avoid traffic worries, parking problems, and public transport delays. We handle all the driving so you can relax.
- Reliable Service: We are available 24/7 and ready to serve you anytime during the busy Thanksgiving holiday.
- Perfect for Any Group: Whether you’re alone, with family, or in a large group, we have the right vehicle to fit everyone comfortably.
- Affordable Rates: Get great value for a premium service that makes your holiday travel easier and more enjoyable.
Conclusion About Things to Do in Dallas on Thanksgiving Day
Thanksgiving Day in Dallas is full of fun, family moments, and exciting traditions. From watching the Dallas Cowboys game and enjoying the Thanksgiving Parade to visiting peaceful spots like Thanksgiving Square and tasting delicious holiday meals, there is something for everyone. Whether you want to shop, explore museums, or join special community events, Dallas has it all on this special day.
With so much happening, travel and parking can be tricky. That’s why using Limo Service Dallas makes your Thanksgiving easier and more comfortable. Let our professional drivers take care of the roads while you focus on creating great memories with your loved ones.
Plan, enjoy the festive spirit, and have a wonderful Thanksgiving in Dallas!