Although most of the country is envious of our warm winter temperatures this time of year, in our heart of hearts, Texans may feel just a touch slighted, particularly during the holidays when songs are singing of winter wonderlands and white Christmases.
Thankfully, ‘a world of Christmas wonder awaits,’ you at Enchant Christmas in Arlington. This is the second year Texas has played host to this magical wonderland, which features the world’s largest Christmas light maze. This year, their theme “Eddie the Mischievous Elf” is based off of a children’s book, as was last year’s, “The Great Search.”
“There are a lot of different kind of light events throughout northern Texas, but this is something that’s on a different level – something very grand,” said Kathy Beazley, event publicist. “The Christmas tree alone is 100 feet tall.”
Located at the Globe Life Park baseball stadium, visitors can enjoy some of the holiday festivities we do not usually have access to in Texas, including ice skating. Glide along the magical ice-skating trail decorated with stunning light sculptures and get metaphorically lost in a holiday fairy tale. Guests are allowed to bring their own skates or can rent a pair at the venue.
As per the theme, visitors are encouraged to explore the maze in search of the gifts that the mischievous elf hid. “It’s kind of nostalgic, like something picturesque you would see in the Northeast,” Beazley said. “Overall, it’s just an intimate experience for couples or families to spend some time together and a great opportunity to capture holiday photos.”
Evidently, this is also a popular place for marriage proposals. Last year, dozens of hopeful grooms popped the question, and hopefully their happy brides-to-be said yes.
After a skate along the trail, which Beazley compared to a lazy Texas river, you can warm up with some hot cocoa or grab a snack. VIP-ticket holders have access to an all-you-can-eat gourmet meal as well as other perks.
Guests also get a chance to meet and take photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and shop at the Enchant Christmas Market for gifts such as jewelry, home décor, and gourmet foods. To complete the ambiance, musical artist Lisa Layne will be there with live holiday and country western music.
Enchant Christmas was dreamed up by visionary and founder, Kevin Johnston, from Vancouver, Canada. “It’s an interesting story,” Beazley said. “He started out by hanging Christmas lights and people took notice of how elaborate his displays were. Then he began doing malls and corporate buildings, but wanted to do a festival of lights, and that’s how he stared the concept for Enchant Christmas. His goal is to make it a touring event throughout the U.S.”
This year, Seattle is blessed with this charming Christmas delight, in addition to Arlington. They intend to add a third location in 2019.
To purchase tickets, visit EnchantChristmas.com. They also offer holiday party suite rentals. Be sure to buy tickets soon, because they are selling faster than Eddie the Elf can hide the presents!
