The twinkling lights, the festive decorations, and the joyous atmosphere mark the beginning of the holiday season at the Gaylord Texan Resort in Grapevine, Texas. If you've ever wondered when does Gaylord Texan deck the halls for Christmas, here's what you need to know.
Holiday Decorations Timeline
Typically, the resort begins its magical transformation into a winter wonderland right after Thanksgiving. Here's a detailed timeline of what to expect:
- Pre-Thanksgiving Setup: During late October or early November, the behind-the-scenes work begins. Staff and decorators start bringing out the massive amounts of Christmas decor from storage. This includes everything from trees to ornaments, lights, and animatronics.
- Thanksgiving Night: This is when the official decorating really kicks into high gear. The day after Thanksgiving, known for holiday sales, is also the unofficial start of Christmas at the Gaylord Texan. You might see workers setting up holiday installations, though most areas will be closed to the public.
- Early December: By the first week of December, the resort is typically in full Christmas mode. Trees are up, the ICE! attraction is ready, and the halls are decked with all the holiday trimmings. The indoor ice skating rink, Christmas light displays, and other holiday experiences are now open to visitors.
- Full Swing: The resort reaches its festive peak around Mid-December when all events and attractions are in full swing. Christmas carols, Santa appearances, special Christmas performances, and winter-themed activities are at their height.
Special Events and Attractions
The Gaylord Texan is not just about decorations. Here are some of the special holiday events you can enjoy:
- ICE!: A captivating display where scenes from popular Christmas movies or classics like The Nutcracker are carved from over two million pounds of ice. This event begins in early December and runs through the new year.
- Santa's Arrival: Santa usually arrives at the resort in early December. Guests can meet Santa, share their Christmas wishes, and take photos with him, creating memories that last a lifetime.
- Lights, Camera, Christmas!: A live holiday production with song, dance, and festive sets to usher in the season. This event is usually scheduled for late November and runs through the festive season.
- Snow Tubing: Real snow is imported to create a unique snow tubing experience. This attraction is available from the start of the holiday season.
Tips for Visiting
Here are some useful tips if you plan on visiting Gaylord Texan during the holiday season:
- Book Early: Accommodations fill up quickly, so make reservations for your visit well in advance.
- Purchase Tickets in Advance: Event tickets often sell out, especially for popular attractions like ICE! or holiday shows. Secure your tickets online before you arrive.
- Arrive Early: To avoid long lines and get the most out of your day, arrive at the resort early in the morning.
- Check Schedule: Events have specific times, so plan your day according to the resort's schedule to ensure you catch all your favorites.
- Dress for the Occasion: Some attractions can be cold, like the ice sculptures in ICE! or the outdoor areas during chilly nights, so dress accordingly.
🎄 Note: While Gaylord Texan does not release exact dates for when decorations go up, the timeline provided here reflects general patterns observed in previous years.
So there you have it – an overview of when Gaylord Texan starts its transformation into a Christmas paradise. From the magic of holiday light displays to the cozy indoor experiences, your visit here will be filled with merriment and warmth, making it a perfect way to start your holiday celebrations.
How long do Christmas decorations stay up at the Gaylord Texan?
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While the full holiday experience typically begins in early December, decorations remain up and the celebrations continue through New Year’s Day, with a few attractions possibly ending earlier.
Are there any discounts available for holiday events at the Gaylord Texan?
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Discounts can vary, but often, there are packages that include lodging and event tickets, or special online promotions. Check the resort’s official channels for up-to-date offers.
What if I visit before the decorations are fully up?
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You’ll still enjoy the resort’s amenities, and you might catch a glimpse of the holiday decorations going up, which can be a unique experience in itself. However, the full festive atmosphere is best experienced after Thanksgiving.
Can I still enjoy non-holiday amenities at the Gaylord Texan during the Christmas season?
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Yes, the resort maintains all its year-round amenities, like spa services, dining, and shopping, alongside the holiday attractions. The festive atmosphere just adds to the overall experience.
Are there any vegan or allergy-friendly options at the Gaylord Texan during the holidays?
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Most of the resort’s restaurants can accommodate dietary restrictions. It’s advisable to inform the staff ahead of time or upon arrival to ensure your needs are met during your visit.
