CO2 – carbon dioxide – laser resurfacing uses targeted beams of light to remove the superficial layer of your skin. This type of laser treatment can remove skin cancer, address cosmetic skin issues, such as fine or keep lines, wrinkles and acne scars; and treat areas of skin discoloration, like sunspots or age spots.
You’re The Missing Piece In Our Social Circle
At Village of McKinney, Village of Plano, Village of Denton, and Village of Stonebridge Ranch, aging isn’t endured — it’s celebrated. Each day brings new chances to connect, explore passions, and live vibrantly. Surrounded by friendship, joy, and personalized support, this chapter is anything but ordinary.
We fill every day with PURPOSE, JOY, and PERSONALIZED CARE in a luxurious setting — because you deserve the best at every stage. From wellness programs to chefprepared dining and beautifully designed spaces, every detail supports your lifestyle.
This isn’t just senior living — it’s living well. Live Life Well® and discover how fulfilling life can be in this next chapter.
Making Holiday Memories
As the holiday season arrives, our homes begin to glow a little brighter and our hearts feel a little fuller. December always reminds me that the true magic of this time of year isn’t found in what we receive but in what we give—our time, our kindness, and our love.
In our home, the holidays feel a little different these days. With our kids—Ashton, Averly, and Jaxx—growing older and creating lives of their own, there’s nothing more special than having everyone home again. Gary and I look forward to those moments when the house fills with conversation, laughter, and the comforting feeling that, for a little while, we’re all under one roof again. Those quiet evenings by the fire and long talks around the table have become my favorite traditions.
Giving takes on new meaning as the years go by. It’s found in the time we carve out to be present, the kindness we extend to others, and the love we share freely. Whether it’s supporting a local cause, volunteering together, or simply reaching out to a friend who could use a reminder that they’re not alone—these small acts make the season shine.
This month’s Holiday and Giving Issue is a celebration of that spirit. Inside, you’ll find stories of people and organizations in our community who are making a difference, sharing generosity that ripples far beyond their own homes. I hope their examples inspire you, as they have inspired me, to find joy in giving and gratitude in every small connection.
As we close out another wonderful year, I want to thank you—our readers, partners, and friends—for being such a special part of our City Lifestyle family. You make this community shine.
From my family to yours, may this season bring you peace, presence, and memories that warm your heart well into the new year.
Adeline Merrick: Merrick Multimedia, Christopher Bigenho Photography
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Sydney Kate Lewis
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Fredshots Photography, Janie Jones, Jon B. Peterson Photography December 2025
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
city scene
1 - 14: The Allen Parks & Recreation Foundation hosted its annual Allen En Blanc, bringing the community together for an elegant outdoor dinner. City leaders and supporters attended, enjoying dinner, cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and a silent auction, all in support of local parks projects like Storybook Trail and trail improvements. The evening was a celebration of community and generosity, benefiting Allen’s parks and recreational programs.
Photography by Christopher Bigenho Photography
15 - 21: The Allen Parks & Recreation Foundation hosted its annual Allen En Blanc, bringing the community together for an elegant outdoor dinner. City leaders and supporters attended, enjoying dinner, cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and a silent auction, all in support of local parks projects like Storybook Trail and trail improvements. The evening was a celebration of community and generosity, benefiting Allen’s parks and recreational programs. Photography by Christopher Bigenho Photography
business monthly
Celebrating 25 Years!
What a wonderful milestone as Allen Premium Outlets celebrated 25 years with a ribbon cutting event! The celebration featured a special performance by the Allen High School Marching Band and brought the community together to honor this iconic shopping destination. We applaud Allen Premium Outlets on 25 years of excellence and their continued impact on the local community.
A Place to Call Home
Alta Magnolia officially celebrated its ribbon cutting and grand opening, marking the debut of this beautiful new apartment community. With modern amenities, thoughtfully designed living spaces, and a welcoming atmosphere, Alta Magnolia sets a new standard for quality living in the area. We celebrate the Alta Magnolia team on this exciting milestone and the addition of such a vibrant community to the neighborhood.
Allen EDC Introduces Gears and Careers Event
Students and community members came together for the Allen ISD Gears and Careers event, hosted by the Allen Economic Development Corporation (EDC). Participants explored hands-on demonstrations, interactive exhibits, and career opportunities in advanced manufacturing, engineering, and technology fields. The event highlighted local industries, encouraged workforce development, and provided students with valuable insights into potential career paths in the Allen community.
Photography by Allen Chamber of Commerce
Photography by Allen Chamber of Commerce
Helping Kids Cope Through Creativity, Comfort, and Connection
Little Hearts of Hope
ARTICLE BY LITTLE HEARTS OF HOPE
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF LITTLE HEARTS OF HOPE
Little Hearts of Hope, a faith-based 501(c) (3), has been serving children ages 4-14 since 2014. Founded by Kerri Steele, a mom of three who lost her husband to cancer, the nonprofit was born from a deeply personal mission: to help children navigate the emotional toll of a parent's or sibling’s cancer diagnosis—and to equip parents with tools to support them.
Children in these circumstances often suffer in silence, experiencing anxiety, isolation, and anger. In fact, psychologist-in-training Katie Davis, in collaboration with Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation and the Pediatric Oncology Student Training grant, found that two-thirds of children with a parent or sibling fighting cancer qualify for a PTSD diagnosis.
Little Hearts of Hope steps in with monthly activity kits that use art and play to help kids express themselves and feel less alone. Creative expression is a powerful coping skill, giving children safe ways to process their thoughts and emotions.
Based in Texas but serving families nationwide, the organization has helped over 1,200 children process their feelings in healthy, hopeful ways. Kits arrive addressed to each child by name and are filled with age-appropriate tools, guided activities, and encouraging messages.
Parents consistently report improvements in communication, emotional regulation, and sibling connection. Many share that the kits are the only consistent support their children receive.
Through consistent, creative care, Little Hearts of Hope helps restore joy and stability to young lives disrupted by cancer. Each kit is more than an activity—it’s a reminder that every child deserves to be seen, heard, and supported.
Little Hearts of Hope doesn’t just provide activity kits—it builds a sense of connection children can count on month after month. “It’s like getting a hug in the mail,” one parent shared. The approach is simple but effective: support emotional health through creative expression, foster resilience, and remind each child they are not forgotten.
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“The approach is simple but effective: support emotional health through creative expression, foster resilience, and remind each child they are not forgotten.”
What sets Little Hearts of Hope apart is its accessibility and consistency. Any family in the U.S. facing pediatric or parental cancer can request free enrollment. The organization relies entirely on donors, sponsors, and grants to continue mailing these essential resources.
Locally, the nonprofit is seeking funding to expand its reach by serving more families and hiring a part-time employee. It also partners with hospitals, schools, and churches to raise awareness and build a supportive community network.
There are many ways to get involved. Volunteers are needed to help assemble kits, host supply drives, join the prayer team, or serve on a committee. Donations of $40 sponsor one child’s kit for a month, while $480 covers a full year of support for a child.
Children enrolled in the program receive a themed packet each month that encourages them to explore feelings common for children going through a traumatic experience such as fear, anger, or hope. Projects include therapeutic activity books, making worry trees, decorating prayer jars, and creating family crests. Each packet also includes a letter to the parent on how to help their child with that particular emotion. Each mailing is designed by mental health professionals and reviewed for age appropriateness and emotional impact.
Community groups, youth organizations, and businesses can participate through service projects, sponsorships, or by “adopting” a child or family. Whether you’re an individual, family, or company, your involvement can bring real hope to children facing incredibly difficult circumstances.
To learn more or get involved, visit www.littleheartsofhope.org. Follow on Instagram: @littleheartsofhope Facebook: facebook.com/LHOHlittleheartsofhope LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/little-hearts-of-hop e
“I had a great experience getting my eye exam at Allen Eyecare Center! Kara S and Jacob at the front desk welcomed me as soon as I walked in. They had great energy, and they took the time to smile and greet me. Dylan was an excellent technician and was very professional. Dr. Brooks is a wonderful doctor. He is very patient and takes the time to explain everything. Eye exams usually make me nervous, but the professional attitude of the staff and the friendly faces helped calm my nerves and let me have a great experience!”
-Joanna
Artist of the Month
BILL BRINGS JOY TO KIDS OF ALL AGES
After retiring from the restaurant industry, Bill Wash channeled his energy into playwriting with his son and building sets for Allen Contemporary Theatre. That led to his most rewarding role to date—playing Santa.
HOW DID YOU BECOME SANTA?
“In 2023, Traci Markel, with the Village at Allen, contacted me, looking for a Santa for their tree lighting. I appeared at the lighting, then word spread and I started to get numerous Santa requests. I’ve appeared at tree lightings, Special Olympics events, private homes, Downtown McKinney’s Home for the Holidays, and much more.”
HOW DO YOU CONVINCE KIDS YOU’RE THE “REAL” SANTA?
“I make each visit individualized. It’s a big thing for a kid to meet Santa. I have a leather-bound ‘Naughty and Nice’ book where I look up each child’s name. The pages look blank to the kids because it’s magic, and only Santa can read the names on the list.”
WHAT IS YOUR MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT AS SANTA?
“Last year I visited an elderly woman with Lolo Roberts, of Grateful Gratitude. Lolo feeds and visits seniors in need. The woman had been diagnosed with cancer. When she saw me, she burst into tears. Visiting special needs kids and seeing their excitement is the closest I will get to being a rock star. Seeing the spark of childhood in the older folks and the joy and awe in children’s eyes is what I love most.”
To find Santa Bill this season or book him for an event, visit www.santabilldfw.com
ARTICLE BY DEBORAH DOVE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY FREDSHOTS PHOTOGRAPHY
SANTA
At 100% Chiropractic Fairview we specialize in quality Chiropractic care and whole body wellness. We want our community to enjoy life and achieve their full potential at whatever stage of life they are in. Dr. Jenny Garner and her amazing team will greet you with a smile and will make your health our priority.
FIRST EXPERIENCE
Initial Discovery (includes X-Rays) 1st Life Changing Adjustment
Posture Analysis
Stretch Session
ARTICLE BY FATIMA DURRANI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADELINE MERRICK: MERRICK
MULTIMEDIA
CREATE THE PERFECT PERSONALIZED SCENTED GIFT THIS CHRISTMAS FOR YOURSELF OR LOVED ONES
HOLIDAY CANDLE CREATIONS
The power of scent is often our most underutilized sense. Scents carry information that travels directly via our olfactory nerve to the limbic system, which is the part of the brain responsible for emotions and memories.
This is why the smell of home-baked cookies in upstate New York may transport you to your childhood home in Texas. Or, when you smell peppermint in the middle of a hot summer, you’re taken back to your favorite Christmas candy cane on a cold winter day. Scents act like your own personal portal into time travel.
products, room sprays, car diffusers, and more).
• Second, work with scent specialists to create your own personal blend.
• Third, create your own unique product.
“Our classes are an experience in creating and blending your own fragrance. Choose from an average of around 90 different fragrances. Whether it’s Palo Santo from South America, or Black Sea with tones of mild florals and a clean ocean scent, the sky’s the limit. When you’re making candles, you pour your personally created fragrance oil into
“SCENTS ACT LIKE YOUR OWN PERSONAL PORTAL INTO TIME TRAVEL.”
Christmas fragrances, in particular, can spark powerful memories. For some, warm ginger and clove scents energize and uplift; for others, soothing vanilla and woodsy scents invite us to settle down with a warm cup of tea. What if you could create a memory bank that was activated by your own personal scent? Joel and Susan Joseph, owners of Rocky Creek Candle Company in Fairview, Texas, help people do this every day. The process is easy and fun, especially for families looking for an opportunity to enjoy something special over the holidays.
• First, pick your “vessel” (this includes candles, bath and body
the melted wax and stir. We then set and glaze the candle and trim the wick to its proper length. Lastly, you can also create your own personal label. When finished, we put each guest’s candle or product, wrapped in tissue, into a nice gift bag,” Joel explains.
Rocky Creek Candles uses a premium soy blend wax and fragrance oils that are manufactured for that wax. These oils are certified by the International Fragrance Association (IFRA), phthalate free, and California Prop-65 compliant. Wicks are a cotton and paper twist. No additional chemicals, additives, or enhancers are added, and fragrances don’t overpower the nose.
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The result? A clean-burning candle that is allergy-friendly.
While some are drawn to candle making group classes for team building or fundraising events, others simply want to create Christmas memories with their friends or families. The good thing is there is something for everyone, such as a car diffuser with that new leather smell or a signature Texas collection Campfire Coffee scent for the special man in your life. Or a brown sugar scrub infused with sugar plum and honeysuckle gingham for your bestie, or a goat’s milk and honey lotion imbued with white tea and ginger for yourself.
“Rocky Creek is the name of the street that we lived on when we first moved to Texas 42 years ago,” reminisces Joel.
Creating memories, deliberately and joyfully, is what continues to inspire him, and he continues to pour (no pun intended!) into the local Allen community. In fact, the Rocky Creek Candle Company is a proud Go Texan member, which means their products are certifiably produced and distributed right here in Texas.
For an experience that your nose will never forget, visit Rocky Creek Candles at 330 Town Place, 972.363.0173, Fairview, Texas, rockycreekcandles.com.
Perfect Harmony
Tucked into the heart of Allen is a chorus that’s more than just a group of women singing in fourpart harmony. Note-ably North Texas Chorus is a cross-generational celebration of music, mentorship, and community connection.
Note-ably, a barbershop-style a cappella women’s chorus, has been lifting voices and spirits since its founding in 2000 at the Allen Public Library. What began as a small group of music lovers looking for connection has blossomed into a thriving, award-winning ensemble that welcomes singers of all ages. Whether they’re performing in front of local audiences or harmonizing at holiday events, Note-ably is committed to bringing joyful, high-energy music to the community. Under the direction of Lindsay Chartier, a passionate music educator, the chorus continues to blend tradition with fresh energy. As they look ahead to their 25th anniversary in 2026, it’s clear this chorus is built on music and legacy.
Founding member Melissa Purdin remembers the early days clearly: a group of women gathered at the local library, united by a shared love for four-part harmony. Just one year later, in 2001, they officially chartered with Sweet Adelines International, a global organization committed to advancing barbershop harmony through education and performance.
ARTICLE BY VALERIE MERRICK
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF
NOTE-ABLY
CHORUS OF NORTH TEXAS
When asked about her experience, Melissa reflects, “It’s a challenging art form. It requires a lot of precision and good vocal production. You have to be very disciplined, willing to work the craft to do it well, and I was up for that challenge. Joining the chorus was very enjoyable but also kept me growing.”
Melissa, who started as a section leader, often bringing her newborn children to practices, and later served as director, now sings alongside her daughter and mother. Her family is just one example of how Note-ably brings generations together.
“We’ve had singers as young as 11 join us in the past,” Melissa notes. “And currently our eldest singer is in her 80s. My daughter, Katie, recently earned a third place medal in the 2025 Rising Star Quartet Contest with the Plausible Deniability Quartet.”
The Community of the Note-ably Chorus of North Texas
Community engagement is at the heart of everything Note-ably does. You’ll find them singing at senior living homes and local arts events, and partnering with organizations like the Allen Symphony Orchestra and the Allen Heritage Guild.
“We’re a part of the Allen Arts Alliance, so we perform at many of their events. And we also have members of the chorus who serve as volunteers because it's important for the chorus to give back and become a part of the community,” explains Lindsay.
And when they’re not performing? They’re cheering each other on—whether it's at musical theater productions, school recitals, or other artistic pursuits.
“This year, we even had an ensemble that was part of a HoCo Pro (homecoming proposal) for an Allen High School couple, which was really fun,” Melissa recalls.
Want to see the chorus in action? They’re available for hire for singing telegrams, or you can celebrate the holidays at their upcoming winter concert, “Cocoa, Cookies, and Carols,” which takes place December 13. This concert promises a heartwarming lineup of holiday favorites including songs from The Polar Express, “Candy Cane Lane,” and other festive selections that invite the whole audience to tap their toes and sing along.
Whether you’re a seasoned vocalist or someone who just loves to sing in the car, Note-ably is always welcoming new members. With weekly rehearsals, special performances, and a whole lot of laughter in between, the group offers both musical fulfillment and neighborly connection.
To learn more about the group or attend their next concert, visit www.nntchorus.org/.
Image Courtesy of Jon B. Petersen Photography
DISCOVER LOCAL CHRISTMAS TREE FARMS
ARTICLE BY DEBORAH DOVE
BUILD FAMILY TRADITIONS AND CREATE UNFORGETTABLE HOLIDAY MOMENTS
There’s no holiday tradition quite like picking out a live tree…or the scent of fresh pine that fills your home throughout the season once the tree is trimmed. Best of all, most local tree farms provide more than just Christmas trees. They offer a day to unplug and connect, breathe in fresh country air, and enjoy a plethora of family activities that will delight children of all ages.
Here is a roundup of local Christmas tree farms within an hour’s drive of the metroplex where you can cut or pick your tree and make holiday memories that will last a lifetime.
01
ELVES CHRISTMAS TREE FARM
601 HARVEY LANE, DENISON, TX
KADEE FARMS
5054 US-69, GREENVILLE, TX
Choose and cut your own Christmas tree from their fields or purchase one of a wide variety of imported precut trees while enjoying a day in the country. The farm also features fun photo ops, farm animals, kiddie train rides, hayrides, a rustic gift shop, hot chocolate and hot apple cider to purchase, and a walk-through Christmas lights experience.
Cut down your own Christmas tree or choose a fresh precut tree or flocked tree. Either way, you’ll want to stay awhile and soak in the sights and sounds of a country Christmas. Mazes, a farm zoo, picnic areas, tours, snacks, gifts, arts and crafts, and free hot apple cider and coffee are all part of the fun.
02 03
KAJIN FARM
3221 COUNTY ROAD 2508, CADDO MILLS, TX
Magical moments abound at Kajin Farm with choose and cut Christmas trees, fresh precut North Carolina Frasier firs, and unique Christmas decorations. Once you find the perfect tree, take a hayride, visit Lady (the farm’s miniature horse), play cabbage ball, ride the miniature train, or enjoy a picnic lunch. Santa visits the farm Fridays through Sundays from 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., or have breakfast with Santa Saturday mornings.
WALLS FAMILY FARM
11051 CO RD 2312, TERRELL, TX
Take a tractor-drawn hayride to a field filled with trees and choose the perfect one to take home. This family-run farm offers free saws, shaking, and baling, hot cider, and a fire pit, plus a huge playground area for kids to run and play and a jumping pillow.
04
WINTER in a glass
HOLIDAY COCKTAILS & COZY CREATIONS
SPICED CINNAMON RUM FLIP
A luscious holiday cocktail with warming spices, rich texture, and a beautiful cinnamon garnish.
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 oz dark or spiced rum
• 3/4 oz cinnamon simple syrup
• 1 oz heavy cream
• 1 whole egg
• Dash of ground nutmeg
• Dash of vanilla extract
Garnish: cinnamon stick and a light dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon
Make Cinnamon Simple Syrup:
Combine 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup water, and 2 cinnamon sticks in a saucepan. Simmer for 10 mins, let cool, and strain. Store in the fridge.
Add rum, cinnamon syrup, cream, egg, vanilla, and a pinch of nutmeg to a shaker. Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds to emulsify the egg. Strain into a coupe or stemmed glass like the one in your photo. Top with a cinnamon stick across the rim and a dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon. Optional: Add 1/2 oz chilled espresso for a coffee kick.
FESTIVE CRANBERRY GIN FIZZ
A bright, elegant cocktail with a foamy top and a hint of holiday spirit.
INSTRUCTIONS:
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 oz gin
• 1 oz cranberry juice
• 3/4 oz lemon juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• 1 egg white
Optional: splash of sparkling water or club soda
Garnish: fresh rosemary or thyme sprig
INSTRUCTIONS:
In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, cranberry juice, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white. Shake vigorously for about 20 seconds to create the frothy top. Double strain into a chilled coupe glass to get that smooth, foamy top. Add a small splash of sparkling water if you’d like a bit of fizz. Gently place a sprig of rosemary or thyme on top of the foam.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these holiday drinks are guaranteed to bring a little extra cheer to your cup.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
EMBRACE THE SEASON WITH THESE HOLIDAY PARTY TIPS AND TRICKS.
Good Holiday PARTY VIBES
ARTICLE BY SYDNEY KATE LEWIS
Just like that, it’s officially the most wonderful time of the year. And while you may still be stuffed from all the turkey, it’s time to start planning the ultimate holiday party. I’ve included some tips and tricks to make sure it is the absolute best time for your guests.
01
SETTING THE ATMOSPHERE IS CRUCIAL.
The mood is subjective to the type of party you’re having, though. This could include a tree in the corner, an advent wreath on the table, a menorah on the counter, or other decor aligning with your celebration. Either way, I personally recommend lighting a fire in the fireplace or playing a looping video of one on your television to create a festive and cozy ambiance.
02
HOLIDAY GAMES ACT AS ENGAGING ENTERTAINMENT.
I once played a game where little trinkets from the Dollar Tree were wrapped in a massive ball of plastic wrap, and guests had 30 seconds to unwrap as much as possible before passing it to the next guest, claiming the unwrapped trinkets as their prize. It definitely gets the adrenaline up and provokes quite a few laughs at the random items wrapped inside.
03
Whether a simple apple dip (8 oz cream cheese, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/2 cup toffee bits served with apple slices) or a festive drink, such as a cranberry Moscow Mule (2 oz vodka, 1 oz cranberry juice, 1/2 oz fresh lime juice, ginger beer, and fresh cranberries with a sprig of rosemary for garnish), serving holiday-themed food and drinks amplifies the atmosphere.
THE PLAYLIST IS, IN MY OPINION, THE MOST IMPORTANT PART OF ANY HOLIDAY PARTY.
04 FOOD AND DRINKS PLAY A MASSIVE ROLE IN THE HOLIDAY PARTY SCENE.
While everyone is mingling, it is crucial to have some festive background noise. And, while the classics are well, classic, here are my go-to, more modern song choices for some great holiday fun!
• “Christmas Isn’t Cancelled (Just You)” - by Kelly Clarkson
• “Drummer Boy” - by Justin Bieber
• “Fancy Like Christmas” - by Walker Hayes
• “Hot Chocolate” - by Tom Hanks (From the Polar Express soundtrack)
• “It’s Not Christmas Till Somebody Cries” - by Carly Rae Jepsen
• “Naughty List” - Liam Payne featuring Dixie
• “Redneck 12 Days of Christmas” - by Jeff Foxworthy
• “Stretchy Pants” - by Carrie Underwood
• “Text Me Merry Christmas” - by Straight No Chaser featuring Kristen Bell
• “The Chanukah Song” - by Adam Sandler
Now go create your own, special playlist, pour yourself a mug of eggnog, and dance the night away!
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
DECEMBER 6TH
Holly Jolly Celebration
Presented by Credit Union of Texas
Downtown Allen: 202 W Main St., Allen, TX 75013 | 4:00 PM
Celebrate the season at Allen’s most magical holiday tradition! From the festive 5K and kid-friendly fun run to gourmet food trucks and glowing light displays, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy live entertainment, sip cozy drinks, and snap festive photos—all leading up to the grand lighting of the City of Allen Christmas tree. See all of the details at www.lifein allen.org/events/holly_jolly_celebration _tree_lighting.php.
DECEMBER 7TH
Annual Allen Rotary Christmas Parade
Downtown Allen: 202 W Main St., Allen, TX 75013 | 2:00 PM
Bundle up, grab a cup of hot cocoa, and join your neighbors for Allen’s beloved annual Christmas Parade! Featuring over 50 local youth groups, schools, churches, businesses, and community organizations, this festive celebration is the perfect way to kick off the season and support the spirit of community. Find details at www.allensunriserotary.com.
DECEMBER 7TH-8TH
The Nutcracker
Allen Performing Arts Center: 300 Rivercrest Blvd., Allen, TX 75002
Experience the magic of the season with Allen Civic Ballet’s stunning annual performance this holiday classic. This beloved winter tradition features breathtaking choreography, enchanting costumes, and guest artists Stephanie Rae Williams, Elias Re, and Aneriz Re—plus the rich sounds of the Allen Philharmonic Orchestra performing live. A festive masterpiece for the whole family! Reserve your seat at www.allencivicballet.org/ the-nutcracker.
DECEMBER 14TH
Credit Union of Texas
Holidays on Ice
Credit Union of Texas Event Center: 200 E Stacy Rd., #1350, Allen, TX 75002 | 3:00 PM
Get into the holiday spirit with a magical performance by the talented skaters of Allen Academy. This special seasonal showcase will feature choreography set to all your favorite festive tunes. Bring the whole family for an unforgettable celebration full of grace, glitter, and joyful winter vibes! Find information by searching "Holidays on Ice" at www.cityofallen. org/calendar.php.
DECEMBER 20TH
Sweaters, Skates, and Seasonal Cheer
Allen Community Ice Rink: 200 E Stacy Rd., #1350, Allen, TX 75002 | 4:00 PM
Lace up your skates and head to the rink to celebrate the start of winter break! Enjoy festive music, themed on-ice activities, and the always-hilarious holiday sweater contest. It’s the perfect way to glide into the season with laughter, community cheer, and unforgettable holiday memories. Find details by searching "Holiday Skate" at www.cityofallen.org/ calendar.php.
DECEMBER 21ST
Santa’s Workshop and Holiday Breakfast Experience
Plano ISD Robinson Fine Arts Center: 1800 Alma Dr., Plano, TX 75075 | 4:00 PM
Step into a winter wonderland filled with cheer! Kids and families will enjoy a magical morning with Santa, complete with festive crafts, holiday shopping at Santa’s toy shop, and a delightful breakfast. Don’t forget to capture the moment with a special photo to remember the magic! Make your magical plans by searching "North Pole" at www.cityofallen.org/calendar.php.
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Keeping warm this
Winter is the season when your HVAC system works hardest to keep your home warm and comfortable. Regular winter maintenance is crucial to ensure your system runs efficiently and reliably during these colder months. By checking components like the furnace, filters, and thermostat, you can prevent unexpected breakdowns, reduce energy consumption, and extend the life of your equipment. Don’t let a neglected HVAC system leave you out in the cold—schedule your winter tune-up with Big D Mechanical today and enjoy a worry-free winter.
