Pending home sales have risen for nine months in a row, a first for the series of the index since its inception in 2001, according to the National Association of Realtors®.

The Pending Home Sales Index, a forward-looking indicator based on contracts signed in October, increased 3.7 percent to 114.1 from 110.0 in September, and is 31.8 percent above October 2008 when it was 86.6. The rise from a year ago is the biggest annual increase ever recorded for the index, which is at the highest level since March 2006 when it was 115.2.

Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said home sales are experiencing a pendulum swing. “Keep in mind that housing had been underperforming over most of the past year. Based on the demographics of our growing population, existing-home sales should be in the range of 5.5 million to 6.0 million annually, but we were well below the 5-million mark before the home buyer tax credit stimulus,” he said. “This means the tax credit is helping unleash a pent-up demand from a large pool of financially qualified renters, much more than borrowing sales from the future.

Let’s take a look at Dallas Real Estate Sales Statistics to see how the recovery is progressing locally:

Dallas Real Estate Sales Statistics – Oct 2008

Home Sales: 3,079

Average Sales Price: $208,200

Median Sales Price: $154,300

Months Inventory: 6.1

Dallas Real Estate Sales Statistics – Oct 2009

Home Sales: 4,146

Average Sales Price: $195,600

Median Sales Price: $153,000

Months Inventory: 6.0

Search all Dallas real estate and homes for sale.

Fun Things To Do In and Around Dallas – Weekend of December 19 – December 20, 2009 

In Dallas

South Pacific
Set on a tropical island during World War II, the musical tells the sweeping romantic story of two couples and how their happiness is threatened by the realities of war and their own prejudices. 

Wish Key Event Benefitting Make-A-Wish Foundation
With any in-store purchase and $2 donation to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of North Texas, shoppers will receive a West Village Wish Key. Shoppers are then invited to try using their Wish Key to open the Holiday Gift Box located in West Village’s South Alley. The winning Wish Key holders will delight in receiving a festive holiday gift ranging from gift certificates and exclusive electronics to dashing accessories and many more festive goodies. 

Dallas Stars vs Detroit Red Wings
Join us on Saturday at 2:00 pm.for hockey at the American Airlines Center. 

West Village Holiday Music Series – The Women’s Chorus of Dallas
Enjoy classic holiday music sung by local Dallas choirs! Get in the festive spirit and stop by West Village’s South Alley (between the Magnolia Theatre and Mi Cocina) 3-5pm. 

Holidays at the Market
A morning with Santa Claus and Holiday Music. Visit with Santa Claus inside Shed 2. Don’t forget your camera and your wish list! Listen for the carolers strolling through the market. Kids – make your own reindeer food! 10-2pm. 

In McKinney 

Lion, Witch & The Wardrobe
Word of Mouth Productions presents the Literary Classics Touring Series Production: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe. Based on the book by C.S. Lewis, adapted for the stage by le Clanche Du Rand. Thursday, December 17 at 10am & 12:30pm; Friday, December 18th at 10am & 7:30pm; Saturday, December 19th, at 3:30pm & 7:30pm; Sunday, December 20th at 3:30pm. 

Holiday Trail of Lights
See thousands of twinkling holiday lights along the Dinosaurs Alive! Nature trail and enjoy festive activities. 

Third Monday Trade Days
Plan to do your last-minute holiday shopping—December 18-20. It’s Santa’s favorite place to shop for things you can’t find anywhere else. After shopping at the 700+ covered outdoor booths,warm up in the market Mall. Bring your list and find a great gift for everyone. Plenty of food concessions to satisfy your hunger, too. 

Hank Christmas Story Time
`Tis the season! Get into the holiday spirit and bring your kids down to the North Texas History Center for Christmas tales of “Hank the Cowdog” from Slim, aka Don Newsom, who is the NTHC board vice chairman. Newsom will be telling Slim`s version of “The Wounded Buzzard on Christmas Eve.” 

Skate with Santa
Celebrate the Season at Dr Pepper StarCenter McKinney at Craig Ranch. Come see local and international figure skating talent perform FUN entertainment for the whole family. 

In Rockwall

Santa’s Workshop
Ho, Ho, Ho! In this 3 hours, you will make all sorts of Christmas crafts that you can take home for the entire family! Crafts range from jingle bell bracelets to Rudolph necklaces to Christmas Tree magnets!

If you are moving to a Dallas home, you can, with prior planning and these tips, make your move a smooth, less stressful experience. After you have gathered recommendations from friends and checked out moving companies on the web, you should narrow your choices to three or four. At this point you can avoid moving mistakes by using these guidelines to make informed, intelligent choices.

1. Insist on an in-home survey and estimate. Movers have to actually see what needs to be moved and be aware of items requiring special attention, such as pianos or valued art pieces. In addition,, by meeting the mover’s representative in person, you can get a feel for the way customers are treated by the company. It is also important that you disclose at this time any details, such as elevator availability, street restrictions, etc., to avoid unpleasant surprises on moving day.

2. Beware of too low a price. While price is certainly a major consideration in making your selection, you need to question a low-ball estimate, Are there hidden charges? Is the firm reliable? Does it value your business? Is it a licensed, insured mover? Check the web at www.protectyourmove.com for this information and for a record of customer complaints.

3. Avoid the busy season. Good moving companies are especially busy in the summer and in the first and fourth weeks of the month. Plan ahead and reserve early to get the mover and time frame you want. Remember that the best deals can usually be found in the winter and in the second and third weeks of the month.

4. Sign a contract. Do not begin a move without first signing a binding agreement which spells out all the services you are to receive and the total amount you’ll be expected to pay. Do you have insurance options? What is the charge for that? If you’re not comfortable with the document, trust your instinct and don’t sign!

5. Have a budget. Be informed and realistic about your overall moving costs. Be sure to include travel to your Dallas home, any hotel and meals expenses, auto transport, and insurance.

6. Do unto others… Your movers will respond well to smiles and a positive attitude

They also appreciate offers of coffee, water, soft drinks, and tips for quality service.

Dallas has many reputable and reliable moving companies who want your business and will work with you to make your moving experience as stress-free as possible. By following these six steps, your relocation to your new Dallas home can actually be rewarding!

Learn more about buying a Dallas home.

Learn more about popular Dallas communities.

The Holiday season provides us with many opportunities for fun with our family, and decorating inside and outside your Dallas home is one activity that can be enjoyed by both young and old. As always, however, the use of common sense and the taking of safety precautions are vital to ensuring happy holidays.

To that end, the Consumer Products Safety Commission strongly suggests you follow these timely tips when decorating your Dallas home:

TREES:

• When purchasing an artificial tree, look for the label “Fire Resistant.” Although this label does not mean the tree won’t catch fire, it does indicate the tree will resist burning and should extinguish quickly.   
• When purchasing a live tree, check for freshness. A fresh tree is green, needles are hard to pull from branches, and, when bent between your fingers, needles do not break. The trunk butt of a fresh tree is sticky with resin, and when tapped on the ground, the tree should not lose many needles.
• When setting up a tree at home, place it away from fireplaces and radiators. Because heated rooms dry live trees out rapidly, be sure to keep the stand filled with water. Place the tree out of the way of traffic and do not block doorways.

LIGHTS:

• Indoors or outside, use only lights that have been tested for safety by a recognized testing laboratory, which indicates conformance with safety standards. Use only lights that have fused plugs.
• Check each set of lights, new or old, for broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires, or loose connections, and throw out damaged sets. Always replace burned-out bulbs promptly with the same wattage bulbs.
• Use no more than three standard-size sets of lights per single extension cord. Make sure the extension cord is rated for the intended use.
• Never use electric lights on a metallic tree. The tree can become charged with electricity from faulty lights, and a person touching a branch could be electrocuted.
• Before using lights on the exterior of your [city] home, check labels to be sure they have been certified for outdoor use.
• Fasten outdoor lights securely to trees, house walls, or other firm supports to protect the lights from wind damage. Use only insulated staples to hold strings in place, not nails or tacks. You can also run strings of lights through hooks (available at hardware stores).
• Turn off all lights when you go to bed or leave the house. The lights could short out and start a fire.
• For added electric shock protection, plug outdoor electric lights and decorations into circuits protected by ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs). Portable outdoor GFCIs can be purchased where electrical supplies are sold. GFCIs can be installed permanently to household circuits by a qualified electrician.

DECORATIONS:

• Use only non-combustible or flame-resistant materials to trim a tree. Choose tinsel or artificial icicles of plastic or nonleaded metals. Leaded materials are hazardous if ingested by children.
• Never use lighted candles on a tree or near other evergreens. Always use non-flammable holders, and place candles where they will not be knocked down.
• In homes with small children, take special care to avoid decorations that are sharp or breakable, keep trimmings with small removable parts out of the reach of children to avoid the child swallowing or inhaling small pieces, and avoid trimmings that resemble candy or food that may tempt a child to eat them.
• Wear gloves to avoid eye and skin irritation while decorating with spun glass “angel hair.” Follow container directions carefully to avoid lung irritation while decorating with artificial snow sprays.

FIREPLACES:

• Be sure your chimney is clean and the flue is open before lighting a fire.
• Use care with “fire salts,” which produce colored flames when thrown on wood fires. They contain heavy metals that can cause intense gastrointestinal irritation and vomiting if eaten. Keep them away from children.
• Do not burn wrapping papers in the fireplace. A flash fire may result as wrappings ignite suddenly and burn intensely.

Remember, protecting your family and your Dallas home is a present you give to yourself and to our loved ones. Enjoy the season!

Fun Things To Do In and Around Dallas – Weekend of December 12 – December 13, 2009 

In Dallas

Radio City Christmas Spectacular
Starring the world famous Radio City Rockettes is an unparalleled show featuring the Rockettes signature eye high kicks, and precision choreography in multiple show stopping numbers. 

Cheer! A Christmas Celebration
The season’s most popular and festive holiday concert featuring the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, Dallas Symphony Chorus and a children’s choir. This spectacular concert will be filled with familiar Christmas music – both holiday classics and popular favorites – and a surprise visit from Santa Claus! 7:30pm. 

A Very Special Holiday Special
Know those holiday tunes during movies and television specials you love? Well, all your favorite holiday tunes will have a place on the Winspear Opera House stage. It’s going to be special . . . very special! 

Kwanzaa Fest
Celebrate the holiday season at this African American Festival celebrating Kwanzaa. Free to the public. 

Candlelight
Witness the holidays as they were celebrated from 1840-1910. Learn the traditions of Hanukah and 1900 Tejano Catholic holiday traditions. Enjoy strolling carolers, telling St. Nick your wishes, riding in Nip and Tuck’s donkey-pulled carriage and making holiday crafts. 3-9 pm. 

Stephan Pyles Holiday Cooking Class – A Modern Thanksgiving and Holiday Entertaining
During class, Chef Pyles will share his personal insights and experience on fall and holiday entertaining. Demonstrations will include a four-course meal or holiday buffet with matching wines or beverages. Participants will also learn recipe techniques from the restaurant, as well as those inspired by Chef Pyles’ travel experiences. Class is $95. 11am to 2pm. Space is limited so make your reservations now by calling 214-999-1229 x112 or email rmcgehee@stephanpyles.com. 

Dallas Mavericks vs Charlotte Bobcats
Head out to American Airlines Center and enjoy a night of Basketball between the Dallas Mavericks vs Charlotte Bobcats. 7:30 pm. 

Deck the Halls with Breakfast and Santa
A children’s concert featuring the Biscuit Brothers at the Meyerson Symphony Center, including free pre-concert activities in the lobby! Add breakfast to your concert package with a special holiday host, Santa Claus! 

Santa Paws Pet Photo Sessions
A special Santa Paws photo op session for pet lovers this holiday season! The property tops his Nice list with a host of pet-friendly amenities and the recent appointment of lab pup Kora as Director of Pet Relations. Come check it out and bring along your furry, feathered or four-legged pals for a special photo op with the jolly old elf. Personal cameras also welcome. 

In McKinney 

Autumn Leaves Canned Food
This December, Autumn Leaves of McKinney, an assisted living residence uniquely designed for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, is participating in a canned food drive benefitting the North Texas Food Bank. The food drive runs from Dec. 1 to Dec. 18 at the Autumn Leaves residence at 175 Plateau Drive McKinney, TX 75069. (972) 542-0606 Canned food collection boxes are located in the front foyer of the residence, and Autumn Leaves encourages the local community to drop of any nonperishable, canned or boxed food items. 

USA Boxing State Silver Gloves
USA Boxing – State Silver Gloves has been in McKinney for the past 15 years. The winning boxer will advance to Little Rock then on the Kansas. 

Christmas Festival
Join us again this year as we celebrate Christmas and the Light. Live nativity, children`s activities and games, Las Posadas, performing ensembles and music, Interactive Christmas Experience, Performance of Light, arts, exhibits, live music, family portraits and a bake sale full of every culinary delight! 

Go-Cart Racing
The North Texas Winter Nationals Go-Cart Racing is at Myers Park December 11 and 12, 2009. $12 pit pass, $5.00 spectator, $15 cart registration. For information contact Gary Jackson at 214-500-1574. 

In Grapevine 

Home for the Holidays
“Home for the Holidays” is a true Broadway-style musical Christmas stage show presented at the Palace Arts Center in Grapevine, Texas. With live music, beautiful costumes and seasonal sets, “Home for the Holidays” will transport you to a world of sleigh rides, snow fall, family and children to capture the charm and wonder of a traditional American family Christmas. The 80 minute revue combines singing, dancing and light humor with traditional scenes in Christmas-themed stage settings. The songs are linked by a story arc celebrating the stages of Christmas – anticipation of the coming of Christmas, excitement of family and friends in traditional celebration, and the enjoyment of the special day. 

Isis & the Star Dancers
Isis and the Star Dancers is a wonderful group of Middle Eastern (bellydance) and Polynesian (Hula) dancers based in Dallas\Ft. Worth, Texas. Come out to the Grapevine Convention Center on December 13, 2009 and enjoy this wonderful group. 

In Rockwall 

Breakfast with Santa
Santa Claus is coming to town. Join us on this day because you get to tell Santa what you want for Christmas! We will provide donuts, orange juice, activities and candy canes and you can expect a visit from a special guest. A polaroid picture with Santa is included in your price to take home to remember your visit with Santa. 

In Flower Mound 

20th Annual Flower Mound Christmas Parade
The Town of Flower Mound cordially invites you to enter a float or group in the annual Christmas Parade. Approximately 100 parade entries will be celebrating the holiday season with decorated floats and costumes.

In today’s competitive housing market, buyers can afford to be selective. It is, therefore, up to the seller to anticipate the demands of the buyer and act accordingly. The ten strategies listed below will help you accommodate the buyer’s needs and make certain the selling process is a successful one.

1. Price sensibly. Listing too high initially is doubly dangerous. Price-savvy potential buyers will simply bypass your home in favor of more realistically priced Dallas real estate, thus limiting your market. In addition, you’ll have to lower your price eventually, possibly below market level, to capture their attention.

2. Utilize professional expertise. Far too many sellers come to regret their attempt to avoid a paying a sales commission when they are unable to generate widespread exposure on their own. To their dismay, they also find that potential buyers expect a far lower price on a FSBO.

3. Make needed repairs. Buyers want a home that is in good condition, up to date, and “move-in ready.” Be sure that all systems, the roof, appliances, etc., are in good working order and replace fixtures that look out-of-date.

4. Simplify the setting. Make room! Too much furniture makes rooms appear smaller, and too many accessories draw the buyer’s attention away from your home’s assets. De-clutter cupboards, counters, and other flat surfaces. Make space in your closets and storage areas, and allow for an open traffic pattern. Put away personal items. Buyers need to be able to visualize their own furniture and belongings in what could be “their” new home

5. Keep it clean! Odors and dirt are real turn-offs to potential buyers.

6. Provide curb appeal. The exterior of your home must invite buyers to come inside. Remove weeds, trim trees and bushes, present a healthy lawn, and maintain an attractive appearance at all times. Don’t forget power washing or repainting, if needed. Add a pot of colorful flowers and a new welcome mat for extra charm and a successful showing.

7. Allow for accessibility. The more showings of your Virginia Beach real estate you have, the greater the chance of a successful sale. Buyers want easy access to the homes they visit. Your realtor will help you make satisfactory arrangements for optimum availability, use of a lock box, advance notification, etc.

8. Stay away during showings. Buyers viewing your home need to take their time to thoroughly it and fee free to voice their reactions to the realtor. Also, if you’re not there, you can’t say anything which might hurt the prospect of a sale.

9. Avoid misrepresentation. Your realtor will advise you of local disclosure laws, and it is important that you comply with them. Attempts to hide a defect will only result in problems later on and may well derail a potential sale.

10. Be flexible. Selling you home can feel like a personal transaction, and sometimes emotions threaten to overshadow logic. Listen and react to all contract proposals as objectively as possible. Know in advance what your needs are re: price, which items convey, settlement time frame, etc. Try to keep in mind the big picture and resist getting hung up on the small things.

The sale of your home depends on both your realtor and you. By working as a team and utilizing the ten strategies outlined above, the process has a greater chance of being a productive and successful sale.

 For more information about selling Dallas real estate, visit TexasHomeCentral.com.

Find out what your Dallas real estate is worth?

The current economic climate has created an extremely competitive market for Dallas home sellers. High inventories and the abundance of deals on foreclosures puts to pressure on Dallas home sellers to have properties in showing condition and to be priced right. Many sellers want to initially price their property on the high end of the market and underestimate the costs of having a property sit on the market unsold. Maintenance costs, taxes and insurance are ongoing. Another thing to consider is the benefits of having invested the money that can be made with a fast sale vs. the cost of sitting on the market for a long period of time. 

The saying ‘time is money’ is never more true than when selling a Dallas home, For example,

In January, you put your property on the market for $500,000. In February, your agent recommends a price reduction of $10,000 to $490,000, but you decide to wait out the market a little longer. Assuming your monthly payment on the property is $4,000-5,000 per month (including mortgage, property taxes, and insurance), and it hasn’t sold in six months, by June you have spent $24,000-30,000. This $30,000 expense has lowered the property value from $500,000 to $470,000. If you had lowered the selling price in February to $490,000 and obtained a faster sale, you would have had ended up with more money in your pocket. 

Dallas property values recently have been declining 5-10 percent a month. A property that might have sold in January or February for $490,000, will most likely only sell for $440,000-465,000 in June. So how do you sell your Dallas home faster and for more money? 

Selling Dallas Home Fast and For More Money

1. Take a look at comparable home sales in your neighborhood and price at your 5% below the last comparable sale within a three-month prior period. 

2. Work with an experienced real estate agent who has market knowledge in your neighborhood. 

3. Have your home is saleable condition. Have your ‘honey-do list’ complete, your yard ship-shape and your home ready to show at a moments notice. 

Your efforts will be rewarded!

Fun Things To Do In and Around Dallas – Weekend of December 5 – December 6, 2009 

In Dallas

A Christmas Carol
By Charles Dickens, adapted by Richard Hellesen, music by David de Berry. Featuring Company Members*: Chamblee Ferguson, Matthew Gray, Sean Hennigan and Christina Vela. Performance will be at the Kalita Humphreys Theater. 

Christmas With The Rat Pack
Experience Frank, Sammy & Dean’s world famous classic recordings and more in this sensationally staged production that brings the music and lives of these legendary characters together again. 

101 Dalmatians
The production follows Dalmatians spouses Pongo and Missis Pongo who are living the good life in London with their “pets” Charles and Catherine Dearly. When their 10 puppies are suddenly “dognapped” by the villainous Cruella de Vil, they summon the help of a vast network of dogs and set off to rescue their pups. 

Preeminent Dance – Winter Series
Grace, power, intensity and frailty. Audiences will experience the preeminence of this spectacular repertory company of talented dancers as they perform the choreography of America’s masters of modern dance. The soul of the dance company will be painted across the stage as Dallas Black Dance Theatre performs Pigs and Fishes, the signature dance of Elisa Monte. 

Capital One Bank Adolphus Children’s Parade Benefiting Children’s Medical Center
All are welcome to attend the largest annual event in downtown Dallas. St. Nick and his entourage of marching bands, giant inflatables, costume characters and dancers will take to the streets to kick off the holiday season in North Texas. This seasonal spectacular celebrates and benefits Children’s Medical Center in Dallas. Each year, more than 350,000 parade-goers join Santa to share in the cherished holiday tradition. Free and open to the public. Tickets for bleacher seating will be available for purchase this fall. 10 a.m. 

Sanders Family Christmas
It’s Christmas 1941 and the Sanders family returns to the Mount Pleasant Baptist Church to sing and witness and get the congregation in the Holiday spirit before the boys ship off to war. This show is filled with more than two dozen Christmas carols and hilarious yuletide stories, along with some bluegrass Christmas favorites. All performances are at 1:30pm, Wednesday through Saturday. Prices range from $12-$14. Call 214-532-1709 for additional information. 

Lone Star State Classic Dog Show
The Lone Star State Classic is a four day dog show event that occurs twice each year (July and December). They have made a commitment to the region to provide the general public and the dog community throughout the world an opportunity to attend a major dog show event in the Dallas area. 

Comedy Night at the Muse – Damon Williams
Come laugh with us this holiday season at Comedy Night at the Muse featuring Damon Williams. 9 pm. Admission $15. 

Dallas Mavericks vs Atlanta Hawks
Take a break this Saturday from all the hustle and bustle and enjoy a night of basketball with the Dallas Mavericks vs Atlanta Hawks. Game starts at 8:00 pm at the American Airlines Center. 

In McKinney 

Seussical, Jr
The McKinney Youth Theatre will perform Seussical, Jr at the Heart-Craig Performance Hall. Show dates: December 4 & 11 at 7:15pm December 5 & 12 at 2:15 & 7:15pm December 6 & 13 at 2:15pm. 

Dog Tracking Trial
The Alamo Area Whippet Club will be at Myers Park on December 5 and 6, 2009 for a dog show at the Back 40 area. 

Holiday Tour of Homes
36th Annual Holiday Tour of Homes for Chestnut Square Historic Village. This year we have a weekend full of activities for our everyone! We’ve added the following fun to the Holiday Tour of Homes: • McKinney businesses will be decorating the houses at Chestnut Square Historic Village! • Thanks to a generous sponsorship from Medical Center of McKinney, this year’s tour ticket book will be a full-color calendar which will be used year round! 

In Plano

Dickens in Historic Downtown Plano
Enjoy the sights and sounds of the season at this annual holiday event.  Food, Music, Carolers, Shopping, Entertainment, Santa & more. 

Lantern Light 2009
Heritage Farmstead Museum Presents: Lantern Light 2009.  Historic Victorian Home and Grounds beautifully decorated for the holidays. Enjoy a magical glimpse of holidays past. Choral groups, Blacksmithing, Storytellers, Crafts and games for children, Hay rides, Refreshments by Starbucks Coffee.  Visit with Father Christmas. 

In Grapevine

 The North Pole Express
Thousands of children will turn fiction into reality this holiday season as they hop aboard the North Pole Express, sponsored by Great Wolf Lodge. Children, cozy in their pajamas, will experience the enchanting excursion. Children will become engaged in exciting activities including ornament making, caroling, pictures with Santa and many more exciting adventures! The North Pole Express runs the last weekend of Nov., every weekend in Dec., and concludes before Christmas. 

Christmas on Main Street
Be sure to stop and enjoy Christmas on Main in Historic Downtown Grapevine. The event features Santa, jolly Christmas characters, complimentary carriage rides and decorations adorning the mile-long stretch of road. Special guests include Ellie the Elf, Frosty the Snowman, Santa on stilts and children can play Reindeer Games, while parents enjoy the nostalgic taste of holiday Kettle Korn. 

Twinkle Light Boat Parade
Lights, lights and more lights will sparkle during the Twinkle Light Parade on Lake Grapevine at dusk on December 5. This lighted boat parade begins at Scott’s Landing and ends at Little Pete’s. It’s a floating festival of lights on Lake Grapevine with a parade of boats decorated in their holiday finest!

Anniversary Ball
The Anniversary Ball fundraising gala, hosted by the Women’s Division of the Grapevine Chamber of Commerce will be held on Saturday, December 5th at the Embassy Suites Outdoor World in Grapevine. This year’s theme is “Let it Snow Christmas Spirit” and the event promises to be a fun-filled evening with dinner, lots of dancing, a wine pull, stocking stuffers and a silent auction. All proceeds from the event help fund Christmas Spirit for Seniors and School Supplies projects.

In Dallas

700 Sundays
Billy Crystal has chosen Dallas as one of only six American cities to host his Tony Award-winning, autobiographical tour-de-force, 700 Sundays. 700 Sundays will be the first Broadway production to play the Winspear Opera House for a strictly limited engagement of performances. 

Moscow Ballet Great Russian Nutcracker
Featuring spectacular sets and beautifully costumed Russian dancers, Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker is an annual treat for the whole family! 

Chi Omega Christmas Market
Come get an early start with your holiday shopping at the Chi Omega Christmas Market. The market features over 150 merchants with unlimited opportunities for holiday shopping. 

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
It just isn’t a Christmas without the Herdmans! They’re the worst kids in the history of the world, and they’re determined to be in the annual Christmas pageant. The congregation is horrified, but sometimes compassion and generosity come from the most unexpected places! (CLOSED THANKSGIVING DAY). 

Santa’s Holiday for Strings: A Puppetry Extravaganza
There’s Santa, Frosty, the dancing penguins, a singing armadillo, and more in this rollicking musical revue created especially for DCT audiences. (CLOSED THANKSGIVING DAY). 

The Trains at NorthPark
A favorite holiday attraction, the Trains at NorthPark exhibits traveling across the United States at various landmarks, and is the most elaborate toy train attraction in all of Texas, with vintage locomotives whizzing on a journey across America, past miniature national landmarks including Mount Rushmore, Dallas’ skyline, New York city’s Times Square and Washington, D.C. 

2nd Annual Jingle Bash
Etsy Dallas, the original local craft collective, will offer up quality handmade goods from over 40 local artists and designers – just in time for all your holiday shopping. The bash will also feature music, a full bar, free raffle, and free goody bags for the first 50 shoppers. Free. 1-7 pm. 

The Royal Winter Ball
The upcoming black-tie gala will feature fine cuisine, auction, and world renowned chef Darren McGrady, who will share recipes and kitchen secrets from his time as chef with the Buckingham Palace and Princess Diana. Money raised will benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and its efforts to find a cure. 

24 Hour Filmfest
Make a day of it at the movies with family and friends and see six black-and-white films made by African Americans during the early and mid part of the 20th century. These rarely seen films show images of African Americans portraying roles about African American life that was noticeably disregarded by Hollywood. $5 – Screening and Talk with Filmmaker Warrington Hudlin. 11 am in Room T-314 & Clarence Muse Cafe Theatre. 

High Noon Gun Fights
Performed by the Trinity River Desperados, visitors will get a firsthand view of the Wild West when a mild disagreement quickly turns into a gun fight on the Village’s Main Street.

In Grapevine 

Texas Coin Show
Come out to the Grapevine Convention Center for a fun day of Coins.  The will be 3 Gold door prizes, numismatic supplies and parking is free for this event. James P. Bevill will be there signing books from Paper Republic. Admission is $2. 

Something Pumpkin
Come to Nash Farm to pick your Thanksgiving pumpkin off the vine. Learn what it takes to make a pie from a fresh pumpkin. Hot Chocolate and hay wagon rides available. 

In McKinney 

Fall Festival
We invite you to our 1st Fall Festival. Please come and enjoy Hillside Hayrides at The Retreat. This event is for the entire family. We will provide a bounce house, face painting, food, popcorn, cotton candy, caramel apples and of course hay rides. Come and join the fun! 

Paula Cole in Concert at MPAC
From her start as a backup singer for Peter Gabriel to her GRAMMY Award for Best New Artist, Paula Cole is an incredibly talented singer/songwriter best known for mega-hits, “I Don’t Want to Wait,” “Where Have All Cowboys Gone,” and “Me.” Drawing heavily from her ethereal, pretty sound, Cole creates songs that relied equally on dreamy melodies and poetic, introspective lyrics. With inventive arrangements built around Cole’s keyboards, her 2007 release, Courage re-established Cole`s seminal role among the top female recording artists today. 

In Plano 

An Evening with Guy Forsyth
Join us at the NYLO Hotel who partnering with Swank Presents to bring you a poolside concert with Guy Forsyth. 

Premiere!
From the creator of one of the most famous of petty tyrants comes a look at the petty tyranny of fame.  Gil is the comedic playwright of his day, doomed to hit after hit when all he wants is to be taken seriously, darkly, academically.  Like…dare he say it?  The Bard.  A hilarious series of events leads to the discovery of a ‘new’ long lost tragedy by William Shakespeare.  Will the truth be uncovered or will the literary world be fooled forever?

Christmas Crafts Fair
This craft show is the place to purchase holiday decorations for your home including handmade tree skirts, ornaments, wreaths and jewelry along with hand painted decorations and personalized holiday items.  This event will definitely put you in the Holiday spirit.

In Dallas 

Tom Thumb Texas Stampede
The Tom Thumb Texas Stampede comes with all the spills, thrills and chills of the National Finals Rodeo competition, only the best-of-the-best have what it takes to qualify for Texas Stampede. Also featuring local favorite Pat Greena and Lady Antebellum. 

Slasher
Slasher by Allison Moore (Southwest Premiere). When she’s cast as the “last girl” in a low-budget slasher flick, Sheena thinks it’s the big break she’s been waiting for. But news of the movie unleashes her malingering mother’s thwarted feminist rage, and Mom is prepared to do anything to stop filming…even if it kills her. No performance on Thanksgiving Day. 

Hayden & Prokofiev
Internationally acclaimed cellist Truls Mørk joins the Dallas Symphony Orchestra to perform Haydn’s intricate and classically elegant Cello Concerto in C major. In the program finale, the Dallas Symphony Chorus unites with a massive orchestra to perform Prokofiev’s riveting Alexander Nevsky. Jaap van Zweden conducts. 8pm. 

Cycle World International Motorcycle Shows
Moto-mania cruises into Dallas when the Cycle World International Motorcycle Shows kicks-off its 11-city nationwide series at the Dallas Convention Center. This hot spot for the two and three wheeled rides will showcase hundres of the latest sportbikes, dirt bikes, dual sports, cruisers, scooters, all-electric scooters, ATVs, including interactive family activities, high-flying motorcycle action, and even educational seminars. 

Hip Hop Broadway – The Musical
Starring Erykah Badu, Jennifer Holliday, Melba Moore, Harolyn Blackwell, Felicia P. Fields and Trent Armand Kendall. Attire: Black Tie Optional. For tickets call AT&T Performing Arts Center Box Office 214-880-0202 or The Academy of Arts and Letters Box Office 214-743-2400. 

Help The Homeless Walkathon & 5K
Help take steps to end homelessness at the 3rd Annual Help the Homeless WalkAThon & 5K. There will be a family fun walk, food, music and fun activities. 8-11 am. 

Discover Dallas Days – Deck the Halls
This exhibit features sparkling fir trees, each one uniquely decorated by 16 different Dalals County not-for-profit organizations to illustrate its special mission. Have your picture taken with Santa, enjoy performances by the Heritage Brass Band and learn about holiday customs from earlier items. Help decorate the holiday tree by creating ornaments, garland, and more as kids enjoy fun crafts and post cards to Santa and friends! 11-3pm. $5 per person for non-members / free for Old Red members. 

Civil War on the Home Front
Provides families with a hands-on experience of the most exciting and volatile time in American history. Union and Confederate troops will conduct drills and share war stories. Hear tales of home life during the war. 

Julio Iglesias
The Dallas Symphony presents international superstar Julio Iglesias in concert for one night only at the Meyerson Symphony Center as he returns for an encore performance. 8pm. 

Pet Fair 2009
Exciting day celebrating pets, wellness care, food and fun for all ages! This event will feature a wide variety of rescue groups. Come join in the fair activities including smooch the pooch, puppet shows, face paintings, Girl Band Lovie performing as Josie and the Pussycats, and much more! 11-3pm. 

In Frisco 

Christian Music Hall of Fame & Visionary Awards Show
The event is honoring Pastor John Osteen in a special recognition. For those who aren’t aware, Pastor Osteen is Joel Osteen’s father. Other great artists have been added and you can keep up with all of them and the special guests attending by going to the site and clicking the 2009 Awards link.Tickets will be available July 24. For more information visit the website www.hallmuseum.com. 

In McKinley 

Dog Agility Show
The Dallas Agility Working Group is at Myers Park & Event Center on November 13 to 15, 2009. The dog show has a variety of breeds testing their skill on an agility course. A course consists of a set of standard obstacles, laid out by an agility judge in a design of his own choosing on a roughly 100 x 100 foot (30 x 30 m) area, with numbers indicating the order in which the dog must complete the obstacles. It is a race for both time and accuracy. Spectators are welcomed with free admission. Please leave your own dogs at home. 

Third Monday Trade Days
It’s Trade Days weekend . . . a great shopping experience–asphalt parking lots and roads, clean restrooms, ATMs, mobility cart rental, 20+ food concessions, and the best bargains in North Texas including unique gifts for everyone on your holiday shopping list. Mark your calendar for Third Monday Trade Days-this Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. 

Ladies Lunch and Movie
We are a women’s social group with a wide variety of interests and activities, and we are growing!  We have women from all walks of life, with kids, without kids, just starting or just finishing with kids, married and single. We have career women and stay home moms. We welcome everyone. We normally meet twice a month for lunch and twice a month for other activities. We would love to have you join us.

In Grapevine 

ICE! featuring How The Grinch Stole Christmas!
The thrilling, chilling, one-of-a-kind holiday attraction ICE! returns to Gaylord Texan Resort for the 2009 Christmas season… and this time, we’re bringing one of the country’s most-loved children’s tales – the Dr. Seuss classic, How The Grinch Stole Christmas! 

In Plano 

‘Neath the Wreath Holiday Gift Market
A North Texas holiday tradition…find unique and unforgettable items at over 120+ merchant booths at the fourteenth annual ‘Neath the Wreath Holiday Gift Market.  Child care provided by Adventure Kids at the Plano Centre or any other Adventure Kids location for a special ‘Neath the Wreath discounted rate.  All proceeds benefit the Junior League of Plano projects and programs. 

In Rockwall 

Paintball Fun
Attention paintballers! Travel with us to Forney as we battle each other on one of the courses that will be open to us. Now is your time to get out and have some fun. Price includes transportation, lunch, a four hour session, a barrel sock, FREE air refills, 100 paintballs, a semi-auto marker and a safety mask. 

In Flower Mound 

Dorothy’s Dash for MS
5K Run/Walk and Kid’s K Saturday, November 14 Flower Mound High School 8 a.m. Kid’s K 8:30 a.m. 5K.  Former Town of Flower Mound employee Dorothy Walkup lost her battle with Multiple Sclerosis on November 16, 2004. Dorothy will be missed but not forgotten as a friend, mentor, and shoulder to lean on to all who had the good fortune of knowing her. Her strength and courage were never more evident than during her seven-year fight against MS. The Town of Flower Mound is sponsoring “Dorothy’s Dash” to honor her memory, share her example with others who may suffer this terrible disease, and raise funds to combat Multiple Sclerosis.  For more information, including a registration form and course map, please visit www.flower-mound.com/dorothysdash or call 972.874.6282. 

New Moon in the Afternoon
Attention Twilight fans! Join us for a come-and-go celebration of the release of the New Moon movie. Enjoy coffee, snacks, conversation, and fun activities. Register for door prizes and, courtesy of Eternal Tomorrows, take your picture with the “Twilight” truck. Photos may be taken while sitting in the truck for a $5 donation benefitting PediPlace and CASA of Denton County. The event is open to adults and students, grades 6 and up. Registration is required by calling 972.874.6167. Remember to bring a camera!