Celebrate the holidays in Addison, Texas, throughout the month of December with nearly three dozen different special events that will be offered for the very first time in the Town’s signature green space, Addison Circle Park. Called Rockin’ Around the Circle, the events run from Dec. 5-22, just in time for Santa to make his annual run.

The fun begins at 4 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 5 with a very special lighting – but it’s not your typical Christmas tree lighting. The Addison Performing Arts Centre has an iconic two-story glass entry known as the Cake Topper. Come count down with family and friends at 5 p.m. as the Town lights up the Cake Topper, creating the perfect red and green backdrop for holiday photos. This magical moment will also include a Holly Jolly Bar, where guests can enjoy holiday caroling by Vocal Magic, light hors d’oeuvres and plenty of holiday cheer – including beer, wine and a few special holiday-themed cocktails.

Following the Cake Topper lighting is the season’s first performance of The Beulaville Baptist Book Club Presents: A Bur-Less-Q Nutcracker. In the play, the women of the Beulaville Baptist Book Club are in dire straits financially, and as a last-ditch attempt to save their book club, they decide to do a fundraiser performance of Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker.” The ballet troupe gets food poisoning, and the group hires the Velvet Kittens Burlesque Dancers to do the performance – not knowing what “burlesque” means. The end result? The most original, unusual and comical Nutcracker you have ever seen! Performances begin Dec. 5 and run Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. through Dec. 29. The play is meant for mature audiences.

That same evening, The Addison will host the first of three performances of Frozen Jr., based on the enchanting modern Disney classic about the powerful bond between sisters and discovering one’s hidden potential. The Arise Acting Studio show features all the memorable songs from the animated film, plus five new songs written for its Broadway production. The production continues at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 6-8.

At 6 p.m Friday, Dec. 6, the biggest event of the season happens: the Addison Circle Holiday Tree Lighting. Addison Circle Park will transform into a winter wonderland filled with holiday magic, featuring a performance by Emerald City All Stars, who will play a mix of holiday tunes and the high-energy hits for which they are known; cozy carriage rides and a special Holiday Wish Floating Lantern release into the Water Gardens that will set the night aglow. There will also be s’mores and hot cocoa stations plus photo ops with Santa Claus. Mayor Bruce Arfsten will be on hand to light the tree, which will feature lights that dance along to Christmas tunes including the classic “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree.” Bring new and unwrapped adult socks, blankets, canned food and toys to donate to DART's Stuff a Bus.

On Saturday, Dec. 7, bring your pup to Addison Circle Park for Feliz Navi-Dog. Everyone loves FREE pictures with Santa ... even our furry friends! Save the date for a sweet holiday memory with your four-legged friend. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and will also feature animal adoptions from Addison Animal Services, vendors selling animal accoutrements and FREE pup cups from Java & Hopps.  

Join Fernando the Artist for an evening of art, drinks and good company at The Addison at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 12 for a Holiday Sip & Paint. No artistic skills needed. Grab a drink from the bar and follow along with Fernando as he guides you through painting a picture of your choice. This event is perfect for a night out with friends and family. The event will repeat at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 19.

For those seeking to participate in their theater experience, on Friday, Dec. 13, The Addison is hosting the murder-mystery dinner Grandma Got Run Over by a What? During Christmas, the one time of year the entire Frostwood family gathers reluctantly together under the watchful eye of its' matriarch, Virginia. This year promises to be as full of poisoned tongues and backstabbing as any other – until the unthinkable happens: Someone has murdered Virginia Frostwood! Use your skills to determine whodunit in this lively Christmas mystery. The dinner-and-show event repeats on Dec. 14, 20 and 21.

On Sunday Dec. 15, head to The Addison for Festive Legends: Holidays Around the World. Keep your holiday spirits bright with help from the Plano Symphony Orchestra’s strings section and dancers from Pure Movement Dance in Allen. The troupes will take guests on a trip around the world in 45 minutes with holiday carols, traditions, dances and fun! This interactive program invites kids onstage to be part of the action and culminates in a Christmas sing-a-long for the whole family. Arrive early to earn a Plano Symphony fun patch and try out instruments at the Instrument Petting Zoo in the lobby one hour prior to the concert. Tickets are $17 for the 1 p.m. performance. Guests are invited to bring an item to donate to Metrocrest Services.

On Friday, Dec. 20, have a Groovy Christmas at The Addison. This immersive holiday show blurs the lines between performers and guests. A brand-new production from 6 o’Clock Dance Theatre artistic directors Jen Mabus and Zach Ingram, this special show will feature dance, music and vocal performances. And nothing is off limits for The Holiday Cheermeister, who is sure to make a special appearance! The event’s interactive format, and mix of traditional and nontraditional songs, all come together in a cohesive evening examining the essence of the holiday season — from gift-giving to time with (or without) loved ones. The show will also be performed Dec. 21-22.

Finally, at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 21, stretch out your body in preparation for holiday feasts by doing some yoga – with goats dressed in Christmas sweaters. Get your GOGA on while pet goats graze and jump around (or on) you at this event in Addison Circle Park. Proceeds from this class directly benefit Goat Yoga Dallas’ animals and local nonprofit initiatives. Tickets are $20 for kids 5-12 and $32 for adults at Eventbrite.

But that’s not all the holiday magic Addison has to offer. Carriage rides through the Town’s Christmas lights are available every Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from Nov. 29 through Dec. 22. Cozy up and take in the festive sights and sounds as you glide through the beautifully decorated Addison Circle District. Perfect for creating warm holiday memories with loved ones, these carriage rides are a magical way to experience the district’s winter wonderland ambiance. Carriages can take up to nine guests; ticket prices depend on group size. See the ticketing website for details.

And the restaurants and businesses around Addison Circle are getting in on the holiday action as well. Several are offering specials and discounts through the holidays. See visitaddison.com/holidays to find out more.

ADDISON ROCKIN’ AROUND THE CIRCLE EVENTS

Events take place at Addison Circle Park, 4970 Addison Circle, or The Addison Performing Arts Centre, 15650 Addison Road.

Cake Topper Lighting

4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 5 at The Addison

Free

visitaddison.com/event/cake-topper-lighting/97/

Frozen Jr.

7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 5 through Sunday, Dec. 8 at The Addison

$21 students, $31 adults

visitaddison.com/event/frozen-jr/91/

Tree Lighting Ceremony

6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6 at Addison Circle Park

Free

visitaddison.com/event/addison-holiday-tree-lighting/84/

The Beulaville Baptist Book Club Presents: A Bur-Less-Q Nutcracker

8 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays from Dec. 6-29 at The Addison

$29-$40

visitaddison.com/event/a-bur-less-q-nutcracker/20/

Feliz Navi-Dog

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7 at Addison Circle Park

Free

visitaddison.com/event/feliz-navi-dog/92/

Holiday Sip & Paint

7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 12 and Thursday, Dec. 19 at The Addison

$40

visitaddison.com/event/holiday-sip-%26-paint/93/

Grandma Got Run Over By a What?

Fridays and Saturdays, Dec. 13 through Dec. 21 at The Addison

$40

visitaddison.com/event/grandma-got-run-over-by-what%3f/96/

Festive Legends: Holidays Around the World

1 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15 at The Addison

$17

visitaddison.com/event/festive-legends%3a-holidays-around-the-world/85/

Groovy Christmas

Friday Dec. 20 through Sunday, Dec. 22 at The Addison

$18

visitaddison.com/event/groovy-christmas/94/

Holiday Goat Yoga

10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 21 at Addison Circle Park

$20 kids 5-12, $32 adults

visitaddison.com/event/holiday-goat-yoga/88/

For information on all events in Addison, see VisitAddison.com.

Susser Bank will open its first full-service branch in Collin County on November 25 at 6900 North Dallas Parkway in Plano’s Legacy Town Center II. Conveniently located on the Dallas Tollway and in the heart of Collin County, this new branch marks a strategic expansion that brings Susser Bank’s comprehensive financial services closer to North Texas communities. 

“Collin County has four of the fastest growing cities in the country, so it makes a lot of sense for our presence to grow here,” said Janine Marshall, Market President, SVP Commercial Banking at Susser Bank. “As the population grows and the number of jobs in the area are expected to reach 1.6 million by 2035, Susser Bank is committed to providing personalized financial solutions tailored to the needs of local businesses, professionals and entrepreneurs.” 

The new branch will be staffed by a team of experienced banking professionals, committed to delivering Susser Bank’s state of the art technology and signature high-touch approach. Susser Bank offers comprehensive digital banking capabilities, allowing clients to manage their finances seamlessly whether in-person or online.

In addition to Marshall, the Collin County team of bankers includes: 

• Phil White, Senior Vice President
• Dawn Chavez, Senior Vice President, Treasury Management Solutions Officer
• Scott Rhinehart, SBA Director
• Patrick White, Vice President, Deposit and Liquidity Specialist
• Diana Stringfellow, Assistant Vice President, Senior Relationship Assistant

“As a thriving business-friendly environment, Collin County is the perfect location for our expansion because so many companies and entrepreneurs are building their businesses here,” said Sam L. Susser, Chairman and CEO of Susser Bank. “As a long time entrepreneur, I understand firsthand how crucial it is to have a strong partnership with your bank. As a trusted partner, we can provide access to capital, strategic guidance, personalized service and banking solutions that help our clients meet their specific goals.” 

Susser Banc Holdings Corporation and its subsidiary, Susser Bank, hold assets exceeding $2.4 billion while maintaining very strong capital and liquidity.

Founded 63 years ago, Susser Bank has operated under the ownership and direction of Susser Banc Holdings Corporation since 2018. 

Susser Bank is a Texas-based company offering a full suite of personal and commercial banking solutions with offices across Texas – Dallas, Arlington, Austin, Bedford, Corpus Christi, Fort Worth, Garland, Houston, Plano, Round Rock and San Antonio. The company is a diversified bank with robust capital, liquidity, and leading-edge technology led by the Susser family and a legacy of six generations of Texas entrepreneurs. Susser Bank is dedicated to building long-term client relationships and providing outstanding financial solutions that make Texas stronger. More information is available at susserbank.com.

As the holiday season approaches, Soulman's Bar-B-Que is thrilled to offer its catering services to help families and businesses celebrate with mouthwatering barbecue delights. Whether it’s an intimate family gathering or a large corporate event, Soulman's offers a range of catering options that promise to delight your guests and make your holiday celebrations memorable.

Soulman's Bar-B-Que, renowned for its award-winning smoked meats and signature sides, is now ready to bring the joy of delicious barbecue to your holiday festivities. Our catering menu features a variety of options, including:

• Slow-Smoked Brisket: Tender, juicy brisket slow-cooked to perfection.
• Savory Ribs: Fall-off-the-bone ribs with our famous barbecue sauce.
• Chicken and Sausages: A selection of flavorful chicken and savory sausages.
• Hearty Sides: Classic sides such as coleslaw, baked beans, and cornbread that complement any barbecue feast.
• Desserts: Sweet treats to round out your meal.

“We understand that the holiday season can be busy, so we’re here to take the stress out of meal planning,” said Amber Polk, Catering Director at Soulman's Bar-B-Que. “Our holiday catering services allow families and businesses to enjoy authentic Texas barbecue without the hassle, so they can focus on what truly matters: spending time with loved ones.”

Ordering is easy! Customers can choose from a variety of packages tailored to fit any size group and budget. Additionally, Soulman's offers delivery and setup options to ensure a seamless experience.

To place your holiday catering order or to learn more about our menu offerings, please visit www.soulmans.com.

Celebrate the holidays with Soulman's Bar-B-Que—where every meal is a celebration!

About Soulman’s Bar-B-Que

For 50 years, Soulman’s Bar-B-Que has satisfied the hardest to please bar-b-que lovers….Texans!  Founded in Pleasant Grove, Texas in 1974, Soulman’s had only a few simple goals—serve great Texas-style BBQ and offer friendly, sincere service.  Soulman’s original family recipes are still the foundation for the company’s success from their 8 different types of meat that are smoked “low & slow” over only hickory wood to their famous homemade sides, including Ranch house beans and Texas style cream corn! Throughout the years, this family-owned and operated company has remained true to its original strive for success and customer satisfaction and is honored to be considered one of the Best Roadside Restaurants in America (2024), Top Bar-B-Que Chains in America (2024), the Best Bar-B-Que in Dallas for Takeout  & Delivery (2020) and one of the Best Bar-B-Que Chains in America (2018).

Soulman’s currently owns and operates 21 North and East Texas locations in Allen, Cedar Hill, Fort Worth, Forney, Garland, Greenville, Hurst, Hurst Grapevine Highway,  Lancaster, Lewisville, Mabank, Mansfield, Mesquite, Quinlan, Red Oak, Rockwall I-30, Rockwall Goliad, Royse City,  Sulphur Springs, Terrell, and Van. To learn more about Soulman’s Bar-B-Que, visit them online at http://www.soulmans.com or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/soulmansbbq.

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Contact:

Dana Cobb

PR@soulmans.com 972-955-9747

North Texas non-profits are kicking off the holiday season with a little more cheer, thanks to $100,000 in Season of Giving grants from Park Place Dealerships. The dealership group selected 21 recipients across the greater Dallas/Fort Worth area that make an impact in the community year-round. 

"It’s been truly inspiring to learn about the remarkable work of numerous non-profits making a difference in our communities,” said Tony Carimi, Managing Director of Park Place Dealerships. “In addition to providing year-end grants, Park Place Members will also volunteer with these non-profit partners in the coming year, aiming to drive an even greater impact in the community."

More than 700 non-profits applied for the 4^th Annual Season of Giving grants. Each recipient aligns with one of Park Place’s Four Pillars of Giving: Education; Medical Research; Advocacy; or the Arts.

Under its philanthropic arm, Park Place Cares, the Season of Giving program awards one-time grants ranging from $2,500 to $10,000. Now in its fourth year, the initiative has granted a total of $400,000 to 86 local organizations, supporting the missions of non-profits dedicated to bettering North Texas communities. Over the past 37 years, Park Place Cares has contributed millions of dollars to charities through ongoing outreach and support.

This year’s grant recipients represent a broad range of causes and communities across North Texas, reflecting Park Place Dealerships’ commitment to uplifting diverse missions and making a lasting difference. The charities receiving a grant for the 2024 Season of Giving include:

Education

• Pasos for Oak Cliff (Dallas)
• Broken Halos Haven (Lewisville)
• Claymore Operations (Coppell)
• Little Hands Book Bank (Plano)
• Gabby’s Sanctuary Ark, Inc. (Lancaster)
• Gill Children’s Services (Fort Worth)
• Rainbow Days (Dallas)
• Girls on the Run (Dallas) 

Medical 

• Enabling Movement Foundation (Flower Mound)
• David Nicklas Organ Donor Awareness Foundation (Grand Prairie)

Advocacy

• Bikers Against Child Abuse (Fort Worth) 
• Lambie's Love (Dallas)
• DFW Angels (Dallas) 
• Serving Our Seniors (Richland Hills)
• Metrocrest Services (Carrollton)
• Patriot PAWS Service Dogs (Rockwall)
• Streetside Showers (McKinney)
• Second Chance Dog Rescue (Mansfield)

Arts

• New Song Community Choir (Dallas)
• Brown Girls Do Ballet (Fort Worth)
• Youth Orchestra of Greater Fort Worth (Fort Worth)

“This is truly one of our favorite times of the year as we come together to review the incredible applications from local non-profits,” said Kara Connor, Park Place Dealership’s Experiential Marketing Manager. "Beyond providing financial support, we’re excited to strengthen our connections with these inspiring organizations that make such a meaningful impact across North Texas."

Park Place Dealerships was founded in 1987 and has been engaged in the community through its support of the arts, medical research, children’s advocacy, and education. Park Place employs more than 1,400 members and operates eight full-service dealerships representing luxury brands including Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Volvo, Acura, and Land Rover. Park Place BodyWerks Collision Centers in Fort Worth and Dallas, and the Park Place Auto Auction, round out the company’s offerings. For more information, visitparkplace.com. 

When the original location for III Forks was under construction in 1998, Chris Vogeli was in the restaurant before the drywall was even placed. Now, the acclaimed chef has been named to helm III Forks’ newest flagship location in Addison’s Village on the Parkway.

The chef, whose culinary influences can be seen in every aspect of the III Forks menu, was literally raised to excel in a fine dining environment. His father and uncles, all born in Switzerland, were restaurateurs, and Chris helped in the kitchen, working his way up from washing dishes to prepping salads and more. Following his culinary education in Dallas, Vogeli moved back to his family’s home in Switzerland, where he apprenticed for three years in some of that country’s five-star hotels. After returning to Texas, he immediately made a name for himself in the Texas culinary lexicon.

It was therefore no surprise that Vogeli was the top pick when III Forks was designed to be the finest steak and seafood restaurant in Dallas.

“There is no one with more of his heart and soul invested in the III Forks experience than Chris Vogeli,” said Curtis Osmond, president of the steakhouse division of CRO, Inc. “With his culinary prowess and impeccable attention to detail, Chris is the perfect person to steward III Forks into its next iteration.”

The chef, who works with a humility not often seen in a chef of his caliber, is quick to share praises for III Forks with his team and with his suppliers. He credits the III Forks success to its consistency and quality. He has been a key driver in the III Forks elevated beef program, including the restaurant’s relationship with the Certified Angus Beef® brand, from which it sources prime 75-day dry-aged steaks, Snake River Farms, from whom the restaurant sources its American Wagyu, or even its selection of A5 Miyazaki Gyu Japanese Wagyu.

Chef Vogeli is expected to open the 6,000-square-foot steakhouse in the first quarter of 2025.

About Consolidated Restaurant Operations

Consolidated Restaurant Operations Inc. (CRO) is a Dallas-based privately held company which operates restaurants including III Forks, Silver Fox, Cool River, Cantina Laredo, El Chico, Luckys Café and Black Oak Grill. More information can be found at www.croinc.com.