Dallas, Texas, December 12, 2025

In Dallas, a $71 ticket Christmas production at Prestonwood Baptist Church has ignited debate among residents due to its perceived extravagance and commercialization of the holiday. The event, titled ‘The Gift of Christmas,’ features nearly 1,000 performers and live animals. Critics question whether church funds could be allocated better for community outreach. The church, one of the largest megachurches in the U.S., has defended the tradition that has lasted for over 25 years.

Dallas Megachurch’s $71 Christmas Show Sparks Controversy

Dallas, Texas – A $71-per-ticket Christmas production at a local megachurch has ignited significant debate among residents and online communities. The event, known as “The Gift of Christmas,” is hosted annually by Prestonwood Baptist Church in Plano, a suburb of Dallas. This year’s show has drawn criticism for its lavishness and perceived commercialization of the holiday season.

Event Details

The production features a 100-minute performance with a nearly 1,000-member cast and choir, live camels, elaborate costumes, and acrobatic dance numbers. Tickets are priced between $19 and $69, depending on seating preferences. The church reports that over 80,000 attendees have witnessed the performance during its 15-show run.

Public Reaction

Many attendees have expressed concerns about the extravagance of the show. Some have questioned the allocation of church resources, suggesting that funds could be better utilized for community outreach and support for those in need.

Church’s Response

In response to the backlash, Prestonwood Baptist Church issued a statement emphasizing that “The Gift of Christmas” is a ticketed Christian production, not a church service. The church stated that the event is a long-beloved Christian tradition celebrated by many in the community and surrounding states for over 25 years. They also mentioned that they are not ashamed to “pull out all the stops” in celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ during the Christmas season.

Background

Prestonwood Baptist Church is one of the largest megachurches in the United States, with a membership of nearly 50,000 across three campuses in Plano, Prosper, and Lewisville. The church has a history of producing elaborate Christmas productions, which have previously attracted both praise and criticism.

Conclusion

The debate surrounding Prestonwood Baptist Church’s Christmas production highlights broader discussions about the role of megachurches in modern society, the commercialization of religious holidays, and the appropriate use of church resources. As the event continues, it remains a focal point for community dialogue and reflection on these issues.

FAQ

What is “The Gift of Christmas”?

“The Gift of Christmas” is an annual Christmas production hosted by Prestonwood Baptist Church in Plano, Texas. The event features a 100-minute performance with a nearly 1,000-member cast and choir, live camels, elaborate costumes, and acrobatic dance numbers. Tickets are priced between $19 and $69, depending on seating preferences.

Why is the event controversial?

The event has sparked controversy due to its lavishness and perceived commercialization of the holiday season. Many attendees have expressed concerns about the allocation of church resources, suggesting that funds could be better utilized for community outreach and support for those in need.

How has the church responded to the criticism?

In response to the backlash, Prestonwood Baptist Church issued a statement emphasizing that “The Gift of Christmas” is a ticketed Christian production, not a church service. The church stated that the event is a long-beloved Christian tradition celebrated by many in the community and surrounding states for over 25 years. They also mentioned that they are not ashamed to “pull out all the stops” in celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ during the Christmas season.

What is the size of Prestonwood Baptist Church?

Prestonwood Baptist Church is one of the largest megachurches in the United States, with a membership of nearly 50,000 across three campuses in Plano, Prosper, and Lewisville.

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