It’s the most wonderful time of the year. | Photo by FTWtoday
‘Tis the season for cheesy holiday movies, and that got us thinking: what would the plot be to a Hallmark movie set in Fort Worth, Texas?
Cue ChatGPT. We asked the popular AI tool to drum up a Hallmark-style holiday movie set in Panther City.
Here’s the masterpiece, titled “Hats, Bells & Christmas in Cowtown":
Synopsis: Betsy Grant has it all — or so it seems. She’s a high-powered marketing executive in Los Angeles, known for turning struggling brands into overnight successes.
But when December rolls around, she’s reluctantly pulled back to Fort Worth, to help her family save their legacy: the last genuine cowboy hat store in the country. Sales are slipping, traditions are fading, and Betsy plans to swoop in with a sleek rebrand before heading back to her sun-soaked life.
Filling the Fort Worth Botanic Garden with magic and merriment through Jan. 4, this family-friendly light celebration lets guests sip, stroll, and meet Santa amidst a winter wonderland where holiday traditions meet southwestern charm.
🎄 Festivity fills the grounds
Wander along a self-guided trail of larger-than-life light installations, from a Gingerbread Walk and Texas Nutcrackers to the whimsical 12 Days of Christmas Cactuses.
Strike a pose with the giant illuminated Texas flag, stroll through the rainbow-bright Christmas Tree Grove, and marvel at a field of 1,000+ dancing bluebonnets. Plus, don’t forget your Instagram-worthy moment inside the magical ribbon tunnels.
🍭 Local bites that make spirits bright
Is it even the holidays without tasty treats? Lick your lips at the mouthwatering lineup of local favorites, including JD’s Burgers, Magdalena’s, Pulido’s, Curly’s Custard, and Margie’s Italian Gardens.
Wouldn’t you want to try a four-course meal by some of FTW’s top-rated chefs? | Photo by the Fort Worth Food + Wine Foundation
Eat
Grab tickets now for Metamorphosis — a collaborative dinner with the Fort Worth Food + Wine Foundation. On Thursday, Feb. 19, enjoy a champagne reception, live auction, and a four-course meal brought to you by The Mont, Dos Mares, The Fort Worth Club + The Chumley House.
Arts
A new mural has hit the scene. “Hands of Unity” can be spotted at the corner of Lowden Street and College Ave — which means it’s time for us to check it out and update our comprehensive guide to FTW murals.
Travel
According to Travel by Luxe, DFW Airport is considered to be one of the most stressful airports to navigate during the holidays. They must not have read our city guide. (CultureMap Fort Worth)
Outdoors
New open land has been approved for city parkland. Fort Worth acquired about 90 acres of open space near Mary’s Creek and plans to use 50 acres for parks and 20 for conservation. The remaining 20 acres will be the site of an upcoming wastewater treatment plant. (Fort Worth Report)
Health
The recent horse virus that plagued many equestrian events statewide — and even halted the Stockyards cattle drive — is on the decline. Officials of the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo say they’re monitoring the situation closely still, as the event is set for Friday, Jan. 16. (Fort Worth Report)
Sports
Plan on attending the UIL State Championship games at AT&T Stadium? Follow WFAA Sports to see the times and matchups. The games kick off today at 11 a.m. and run through this Saturday, Dec. 20.
Featured Deal
Still searching for the perfect gift for him?Particle Gravité is a bold, refined cologne engineered for men with layers of cedarwood, amber, and a hint of spice. Get it 20% off today with promo code CITY20.*
Number
540,000+. That’s how many people trust this life-changing hearing aid. Its virtually invisible design delivers sharper speech and reduced noise for effortless hearing. Try it yourself with a 45-day no-risk trial and experience clearer conversations today.*
Our favorite way to stay warm in the winter? With a little added heat. We love this heated vest that provides up to 12 hours of continuous heat with a battery that doubles as a power bank. We pair it with these top-rated rechargeable hand warmers on extra chilly days.
Is the looming start of the new year overwhelming you? Because same. I could use some help organizing my goals for 2026. Luckily, the Fort Worth Public Library is hosting seven freevision board workshops next month. Consider this your sign to turn your 2026 vision into reality.
}})
