Every December, Rockwall transforms into a festive wonderland that feels straight out of a holiday movie. Our community vibe is truly special this time of year, and you can feel the excitement in the air. The first weekend of December kicks off with a downtown parade that sets the tone for the season, offering activities for kids, gourmet delights from street vendors and food trucks, and plenty of fun for everyone. Whether you’re a local or hosting out-of-town guests, Rockwall has something to offer for all ages. Let’s dive into what makes a Rockwall Christmas so special!
16 Outdoor Activities and Fun
1. Rockwall’s Hometown Christmas: Saturday, December 7
Kick off the holiday season with Rockwall’s Hometown Christmas! This year’s Kiwanis Christmas Parade theme is “My Favorite Christmas Movie.” Plan to see some creative floats and experience a full day of holiday cheer in Downtown Rockwall. The Parade will start at the Rockwall County Library and end at Dobbs Elementary. From 9am to 5pm, enjoy food trucks, snow hills, photos with Santa, and more! The festivities continue from 6pm to 8pm at Rockwall City Hall with a magical tree lighting, crafts, live music, sweet treats, and more. Don’t forget the free trolley from First Baptist Church to Downtown to The Center (108 E Washington St, Rockwall, TX 75087) from 10am to 9pm.
2. Lake Ray Hubbard Cruise
Take in the holiday lights from the water with DFW Boat Ride on Lake Ray Hubbard. Enjoy a 10% discount on regular cruise tickets with promo code DFWBR10. It’s a magical way to experience the lake during the holiday season.
3. Volleyball at Rockwall Indoor Sports World
Spend your Saturday night with some friendly competition at Rockwall Indoor Sports World. Open Gym Volleyball runs from 7pm to 10:30pm, offering fun for all skill levels. It’s a great way to stay active and make new friends during the holidays.
4. Bowling at Rowlett Bowlarama
Put on your family Christmas tees or ugly sweaters and head to Rowlett Bowlarama. Bowling is a perfect indoor activity to keep the holiday spirit alive while having fun.
5. Skating at Texas Skatium
Take everyone to Texas Skatium to skate off those holiday treats. It’s a fun way for kids to burn off energy while adults can enjoy some exercise. Skating costs $8.66 if you have skates or $12.99 if you need to rent.
6. Disc Golf at Harry Myers Park
Visit Harry Myers Park, home to one of the top-rated disc golf courses in Texas. Designed by John Houck, this course offers beautiful scenery and a fantastic play area for kids. It’s perfect for a family day out.
7. Golf Clubs
If traditional golf is more your speed, check out Buffalo Creek Golf Club or Stone River Golf Club. Both offer excellent facilities and beautiful courses.
8. Urban Air Trampoline Park
For indoor adventure, visit Urban Air Trampoline Park. With trampolines, a warrior course, a toddler tubes playground, kids climbing walls, sky rider and more, it’s fun for the whole family.
9. Karaoke at The Brass Tap
Show off your singing skills at The Brass Tap. They offer karaoke on certain days and live music, making it a lively spot for evening entertainment.
10. Rockwall Community Playhouse
Catch a local performance like “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” at the Rockwall Community Playhouse. Directed by Stacey Kluttz, this heartwarming show runs on December 1, 6, 7, and 8, 2024.
11. Southern Junction: Tracy Byrd Band
Enjoy live music with the Tracy Byrd Band at Southern Junction on December 7, 2024. Doors open at 6pm, and the show starts at 10:30pm. Buy your tickets early and get ready for a great night of country music.
12. Christmas Cake Workshop at Honey Locust Farms
Get creative at Honey Locust Farms with their Christmas Cake Workshop on Sunday, December 8, 2024. They offer various holiday-themed classes perfect for creating sweet memories.
13. Painting with a Twist
Host a family fun painting session with Christmas-themed painting to DIY art kits from Painting with a Twist. It’s a unique way to spend quality time together while unleashing your creativity.
14. Sugar Plum Fairy & Tin Soldier Ball at the Rockwall County Library
The Rockwall County Library hosts a delightful holiday event on Tuesday, December 10, 2024. The “Sugar Plum Fairy & Tin Soldier Ball” invites families to dress up and waltz to the sounds of a string trio from the Plano Symphony Orchestra. Enjoy a fairy tale setting, a buffet of delectable sweets, and a waltz instructor to help you perfect your moves. This event is from 6pm to 7:30pm and promises a magical evening for all ages.
15. Breakfast with Santa
Santa Claus is coming to town! Kick off the holiday season with a magical morning filled with joy and cheer at The Center on Saturday, December 14, 2024. Enjoy a delicious breakfast, meet Santa Claus, and participate in fun holiday crafts. Registration opens November 1st, so reserve your spot for this enchanting experience.
16. Annual Christmas Concert
Don’t miss the Rockwall Community Band’s Christmas Concert on Thursday, December 19, 2024, at 7pm at the First United Methodist Church. Admission is free, so bring the whole family for an evening of festive music.
Where To Dine Out?
Rockwall offers a variety of dining options that are unique and special to our area. Here are some of my recommendations:
Coffee or Breakfast:
- Lone Star 66 Cafe in Downtown Rockwall
- Eggsquisite Cafe in Rockwall
- 5013 Coffee in Downtown Rockwall
- Starwood Cafe in Fate
- FourCzechs Bakery in Fate
- Donut Supreme in Heath
Lunch or Dinner:
- Giovanni Italian Restaurant at the Rockwall Harbor
- Manny’s in Heath
- Blue Koi Japanese Bistro in Heath
- The Oar House in Rockwall
- Bin 303 in Rockwall
- Wades Landing in Downtown Rockwall
- Luigi’s Italian Cafe in Rockwall
- Rosini Winery and Vineyard in McLendon-Chisholm
- Smoke Monkey in Rockwall County
You may not be able to visit all the dining locations or participate in every activity in one weekend, but this guide is here to inspire you. Embrace the holiday spirit, explore the unique experiences Rockwall has to offer, and create cherished memories with your loved ones.
We’d love to hear about your favorite places, experiences, and holiday fun in Rockwall. Share your stories and let us know how you celebrated the season in our wonderful town. Merry Christmas!
