Six Flags’ Holiday in the Park is Festive Fun, But it Has Room for More Cheer

Forty years ago, Arlington’s Six Flags Over Texas unwrapped its first-ever Holiday in the Park, and while the event has grown brighter over the decades, it still feels like a Christmas tree missing a few ornaments.

This year’s celebration, running through Jan. 4, offers a mix of dazzling lights, high-flying stunts and classic holiday charm, but not without a few missed opportunities that might leave seasoned park-goers craving more.

From the moment you step onto Merry Main Street, it’s clear that Six Flags wants to deliver a holiday experience that rivals the big leagues. With over 2.5 million lights, nightly “snowfalls” and a brand-new stunt show, the park is aiming to be more than just a thrill-seeker’s destination. So, let’s dive into the good, the great and the “could’ve been merrier” of this year’s festivities.

Merry Main Street: A Festive First Impression

Merry Main Street is the heart of Holiday in the Park, and it’s hard not to feel a little giddy as you stroll through its glowing archways. The nightly fake snowfall is a highlight, creating a picture-perfect moment straight out of a Hallmark movie — just don’t inhale too deeply unless you want to find out what “holiday spirit” tastes like. The towering Christmas tree at the park’s gate, decked out in synchronized lights, is another showstopper, drawing crowds for its nightly lighting ceremony.

The new Christmastime Keepsakes Store is a welcome addition, offering a charming selection of ornaments and gifts. It’s a small but thoughtful touch, especially for those of us who’ve noticed how hard it’s become to find unique holiday trinkets. Combined with the festive décor and cheerful music, Merry Main Street sets the tone for a cozy, family-friendly evening. Once you’ve soaked in the glow, it’s time to head to the Southern Palace for a show that’ll have you believing elves can fly.

Tinker’s Toy Factory: A High-Flying Holiday Highlight

The standout attraction this year is the brand-new Tinker’s Toy Factory. Imagine performance art with a holiday twist — elves flipping, flying and defying gravity in a whimsical workshop setting. It’s a nostalgic nod to the park’s stunt show heyday (remember the Batman stunt show from the ‘90s?) and a refreshing departure from the more traditional musical revues of past years.

For 25 minutes, you’re treated to a high-energy spectacle that’s part Cirque du Soleil, part holiday fever dream and 100% worth your time at the park. It’s the kind of show that makes you want to quit your day job and join Santa’s stunt team. While there are still musical moments scattered throughout the park (the retro harmonies of The Mistletones, for example), Tinker’s Toy Factory feels like the most polished and memorable entertainment offering this season.

Santa, S’mores and Seasonal Treats

No holiday event would be complete without a visit to the big man himself. Santa’s Workshop is a delightful photo op, with St. Nick striking playful poses that range from classic to downright silly, such as pretending to ride the Titan. Meanwhile, Mrs. Claus holds court in her cozy nook, leading storytime sessions that are sure to enchant younger guests.

For those looking to indulge their sweet tooth, the park offers a variety of seasonal treats, from red velvet hot chocolate to gingerbread churros. You can even decorate cookies with Mrs. Claus or roast s’mores over an open fire. These little touches add warmth and charm to the experience, even if they don’t quite elevate it to the next level.

Where the Magic Falls Short

While Holiday in the Park has plenty to offer, it’s not without its shortcomings. The lack of a holiday parade feels like a massive missed opportunity, especially when you’ve got a whole squad of Looney Tunes characters at your disposal. Bugs Bunny only got a brief cameo in the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. Maybe the Looney Tunes charge too much for a full parade? Whatever the reason, Bugs deserves better, and frankly, so do we.

Similarly, the park could benefit from more distinct themed areas like Fright Fest offers. While Merry Main Street and Santa’s Workshop are delightful, the rest of the park feels a bit generic. Why not create a Frosty’s Wonderland or a Nutcracker-themed zone? Adding more immersive, story-driven elements would go a long way in making Holiday in the Park feel like a truly unique experience. It’s understandable that a chunk of this year’s budget is likely tied up in the development of the upcoming Tormenta ride, but there’s a sense that Six Flags is playing it safe this year. It’s hard not to wonder what could’ve been with a little more investment.

The Verdict

So, is Holiday in the Park worth it? Absolutely — if you’re looking for a festive outing that’s more about twinkling lights and flying elves than perfection. Sure, it’s not Disney, but it’s also not Disney prices, either. And let’s be real, there’s something magical about screaming your lungs out on a roller coaster while clutching a gingerbread churro. That’s the kind of holiday memory you won’t find in a Hallmark movie. So bundle up, grab a cup of hot cocoa and let the holiday spirit take you for a ride.

Guests can enjoy unlimited visits to Holiday in the Park with the 2026 Silver Pass, available now through Dec. 1 during the Cyber Sale price of $55 — the same price as a one-day “Good Any Day Ticket.” The Silver Pass includes unlimited visits to Six Flags Over Texas for the rest of 2025, all Holiday in the Park dates and unlimited visits through Labor Day 2026, plus free parking.

Holiday in the Park runs on select nights from now through Jan. 4. For park hours, entertainment schedules and ticket information, visit Six Flags Over Texas’ website.