Frisco Insider - Xbox + Property Tax + More

Howdy, Frisco.

Happy Wednesday, folks, the weather’s warming up, coffee’s still a necessity, and my Christmas lights are holding on by more duct tape than I’d like to admit. It’s one of those rare winter weeks where North Texas forgot what “cold” means (don’t worry, we’ll be freezing again next week).

Big stories this week, from the first ever Xbox Bowl happening right here in Frisco, to Texas diving into cryptocurrency. Plus, a new cold front’s sneaking up soon, so enjoy the sunshine while it lasts.

Grab your cocoa (spiked or not), and let’s catch up on what’s happening in our corner of the world.

🎮 Frisco to Host the First-Ever Xbox Bowl

Big news for sports and gaming fans alike, the first ever Xbox Bowl is kicking off right here in Frisco at The Ford Center at The Star on December 18 at 8 p.m.

This unique ESPN backed matchup replaces the Bahamas Bowl (sorry, Nassau) and features Missouri State vs. Arkansas State. Expect Xbox themed experiences, gaming zones, and fan activations that blend college football with next level gaming energy.

Microsoft says it’s all about “celebrating the passion for play”, and honestly, Frisco couldn’t be a more fitting place for it. Between sports fandom and tech obsession, we’re basically built for this. Expect traffic, tailgates, and maybe a few gamers wandering around The Star.

🏠 Gov. Abbott’s Big Plan: No More School Property Taxes?

Governor Greg Abbott is pushing one of the boldest tax ideas Texas has ever seen, a plan to abolish school property taxes for homeowners entirely.

He argues the state has enough surplus funds to cover the $17+ billion schools would lose in revenue. The move would shift how public schools are funded, using state surpluses instead of property taxes.

Supporters say it could finally relieve Texas homeowners who’ve been paying among the highest property taxes in the country. Critics, though, warn it’s a financial time bomb, especially once the state’s extra cash runs dry.

The proposal could go to voters as a constitutional amendment, meaning the debate over your tax bill might soon land directly on your ballot.

₿ Texas Buys $5 Million in Bitcoin

Everything’s bigger in Texas, including our crypto ambitions. The state just made a $5 million Bitcoin purchase, marking the official launch of the Texas Strategic Bitcoin Reserve.

The goal? To “strengthen the state’s balance sheet” and lead the way in digital finance. Supporters see it as a visionary move for the digital era. Skeptics call it risky business, especially given Bitcoin’s wild price swings and its huge energy demands.

Right now, Texas hosts over 27 crypto mines, consuming enough power to run 680,000 homes. Some locals call it innovation; others call it an expensive noise machine. Either way, Texas is officially the first state with a crypto reserve.

🌤️ Warming Trend Continues…For Now

North Texas has been soaking up some mild sunshine, but meteorologists say a weak cold front is on the way. Expect gusty winds (up to 25 mph on Wednesday), a midweek cool-down, and then a stronger cold front late Friday to drop temps back into jacket territory.

So yes, it’s warm today, but your hoodie’s not going anywhere.

Revel Patio Grill

Discover a place where laughter, music, and good company create lasting memories, Revel Patio Grill in Frisco is more than a restaurant, it’s where friends become family and every meal feels like a celebration. Whether you’re cheering on your team, sharing stories over Cajun seafood, or joining a lively karaoke night, Revel is a home for joy and connection. Come for the delicious food, stay for the friendships, and enjoy the moments that truly matter. I post events from Revel all the time, so I can tell you right now it’s the real deal.

Check them out here: http://revelpatiogrill.com/
Address: 9305 Preston Rd, Frisco, TX 75033

☕ Hot Cocoa Crawl – Richardson | Ticketed

📍 Dec 12 (6–10 PM) & Dec 13 (12–4 PM) | CityLine Plaza
Get ready to sip your way through a cocoa lover’s dream. Sample creative spins on hot chocolate, from peppermint to smoky BBQ flavors, with a keepsake mug to remember it by. Some cocoa’s boozy, some’s not, but all are guaranteed to warm your holiday spirit.
Details: Here

🎄 Home on The Range for The Holidays – Frisco | No Cost

📍 Dec 13 | 5–8 PM | PGA District, 3255 PGA Parkway
This family favorite event returns with reindeer, longhorns, a holiday train, and “Merry Mini Golf” for the kids. At 6 p.m., Cowboy Santa lights the tree before a holiday movie plays on the big screen. Expect festive food, photo ops, and enough twinkle lights to power a small city.
Details: Here

🎅 Christmas Extravaganza – Prosper | No Cost

📍 Dec 13 | 5–7 PM | Chick-fil-A, 1091 S. Preston Rd
It’s a full-on Christmas festival, bounce houses, games, treats, and a no cost Icedream cone if you rock your best ugly sweater. Perfect for families who like their Christmas with a side of waffle fries.
Details: Here

💆‍♀️ Self-Care Festival: Christmas Market – Dallas | No Cost (General Admission)

📍 Dec 14 | 11 AM–4 PM | Lofty Spaces, 816 Montgomery St
Take a break from the holiday chaos at this self-care fest featuring mini beauty treatments, handmade skincare, candles, and local vendors. It’s part market, part spa day, and part mental reset. Because you can’t pour from an empty cocoa mug.
Details: Here

🌟 The Gift of Christmas – Plano | Ticketed

📍 Dec 10–14 | Worship Center, Prestonwood Campus
A true North Texas tradition, a 1,000-member cast, live orchestra, flying angels, and jaw dropping sets that make this one of the most spectacular Christmas shows around. Expect carols, lights, and the powerful retelling of the nativity story in full cinematic fashion.
Details: Here