The Grapevine City Council convened to discuss the upcoming Carol of Lights and Mary and Bright drone shows, with significant changes aimed at enhancing safety and accessibility for attendees. Parks and Recreation staff member Aaron Burke outlined the new event layout, which will transform Main Street into a pedestrian-focused thoroughfare, extending from Northwest Highway to the railroad. This year, the event footprint will exclude areas south of the railroad, allowing for a more spacious and organized experience.

Key attractions will be relocated to designated zones, including the popular Jumpin' Junction featuring Christmas-themed bounce houses and a giant gingerbread display. Other highlights include the Hometown Christmas Corridor on Jenkins Street, which will host various activities, and the Frozen Fun Zone, offering snow hills and inflatable mazes.

Burke emphasized the importance of crowd control, noting that the traditional tree lighting ceremony will be replaced by a street lighting event visible along Main Street to prevent congestion. Additionally, a Santa entrance will be introduced, allowing attendees to view Santa's arrival from multiple stages, further dispersing the crowd.

Concerns regarding parking were raised, particularly the decision to utilize the Master Made Feed parking lot for vendor activities, which will limit parking availability. Burke assured council members that alternative parking options, including ride-sharing and digital parking maps, will be promoted to assist visitors.

The event will feature an increased number of food vendors, with at least 24 expected, and additional concession stands to reduce wait times. Street closures will begin at midnight on Sunday, with Main Street closing at 6 PM on the event day.

In a bid to foster community engagement, council members will have the opportunity to participate in the Santa entrance, interacting with attendees across multiple stages. The city aims to create a festive atmosphere while prioritizing safety and accessibility for all visitors.