Looking for the best Christmas events & holiday things to do in Houston? Check out the fun light festivals, Christmas activities, holiday markets, seasonal pop-ups, and so much more!
With so much to do in Houston this time of year, you’ll be feeling cheerier than ever! Bookmark this for next year as we round-up all the best Christmas events in Houston!
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Downtown Houston Christmas Events
Want to see pretty Christmas lights and other unique displays for the perfect, free photo backdrop? Downtown Houston has a ton!
City Lights Downtown Holiday Magic (Nov. 17 – Dec. 31, 2023)
Turn the crank on 10 giant, interactive music boxes, each with their own unique tune, created by LeMonde Studio and enjoy activities like photos with Santa, the most festive, extravagant photo ops, light displays, and so much more!
Hop on board one of the FREE pedicabs (pick-up at Discovery Green, Lynn Wyatt Square, POST Houston, Trebly Park, and Market Square Park) and explore everything that downtown Houston has to offer this holiday season.
For a fee, you can also ride the Hop-on, Hope-off Holiday Trolley, with stops at the Trebly Park, Heritage Society, Avenida Houston/Discovery Green, Market Square Park, and POST Houston,
Grab one of the Holiday Passports for a chance to win a one-night stay at Hotel Icon, four tickets to a Theater District performance, and four tickets to a Houston Rockets game. They’re available for pick-up at Market Square Park, Trebly Park, and Heritage Society.
The Holiday Passports feature the following 11 Holiday Villages that have popped up in downtown Houston:
Winter Wonderlawn
POST Skylawn’s 5-acre rooftop park and garden will feature holiday lights, a 25-foot Christmas tree, and phenomenal skyline views! Children 5 and under are free, with tickets ranging from $7 to $10. Tickets are available online. Nov. 4, 2023 – Jan. 14, 2024.
Click here for a complete map of all the fun holiday things to do in downtown Houston!
Texas Winter Lights at the Marriott Marquis
The Marriott Marquis gained its notoriety from its spacious, temperature-controlled rooftop pool and lazy river. How could it get any better you ask?
For the last four holiday seasons, it’s sixth floor rooftop has been decked out in colorful holiday lights, making it easy for everyone to be entertained, whether you’re missing the summertime, or you’d rather be surrounded by Christmas decor.
Among the many delights for you to enjoy, expect festive cocktails, a wintry-themed menu, fantastic photo opportunities, and
To name a few things everyone will enjoy, there will also be festive cocktails, a themed menu, photo-ops, and a range of additional activities to add to the holiday cheer! Get your tickets online now for between $15 and $30! Nov. 10, 2023 – Dec. 31, 2023, 5 PM to 10 PM.
Ice Skate in Texas at Discovery Green
Looking for some wintertime outdoor activities? Green Mountain Energy Ice at Discovery Green offers outdoor ice skating for some wintery fun, even in Texas where we have 70-degree weather in December.
Plan your visit so you can experience live performances while you skate or catch sight of Santa! Tickets start at $17 and include your skate rental. Purchase yours online. Nov. 10, 2023 – Jan. 28, 2024.
Deck the Trees (FREE)
If you are the type of holiday enthusiast that sees Christmas tree decor as an art, then this exhibit is for you! Alley Theatre and the George R. Brown Convention Center will have several 20-foot-tall Christmas trees on display for your viewing pleasure. Each venue has their own signature tree that matches a unique theme. Nov. 17 – Dec. 25, 2023.
On select weekends, you can catch live entertainment in The Plaza at Avenida Houston.
See a Chocolate Sculpture at the Hilton Americas (FREE)
Inside the lobby at the Hilton Americas, you’ll find a hand-sculpted, chocolate sculpture made up of over 2,000 pounds of chocolate. Bring the kiddos for a fun photo op, especially if they love Super Mario Bros!
While you’re at it, snap photos with all the holiday lights and 14-foot Champagne trees in the hotel lobby. Nov. 17 – Dec. 29, 2023.
Jingle Town (FREE)
Here, in Lynn Wyatt Square, you can catch three more of the interactive music boxes, as well as a beautiful, new greenspace. Nov. 17, 2023 – Jan. 2, 2024.
Winter Wanderland (FREE)
Fill your week with Christmas lights or explore downtown Houston on the weekends posing with all of the holiday installations along Bagby Street. There will be an 80-foot LED light tunnels and arches, 3D trees, and amazing photo ops stretching from Hobby Center to City Hall, like constellations and illuminated arches.
At Sam Houston Park, you can also snag a cup of hot chocolate, snap free pictures with Texas Cowboy Santa, and write letters to Santa. Nov. 17, 2023 – Jan. 2, 2024.
Twinkle Town (FREE)
Trebly Park will host live holiday music every Friday night, and on Saturday afternoons, Santa Paws will be available for cute photos with your pets. There will also be yet another music box, but remember, each one has their own song to share! Nov. 17, 2023 – Jan. 2, 2024.
Sugar Plum Plaza (FREE)
Play with a huge hourglass, created by Creos, and a Harmonies music box art installation in Fish Plaza in front of the Wortham Theater. Nov. 18, 2023 – Jan. 2, 2024.
Mistletoe Square (FREE)
For the perfect backdrop for your cute couple photos this holiday season, pose in Market Square Park under a huge ball of mistletoe hanging from a 15-foot candy cane and crank another one of the music boxes.
Every Saturday, multi-cultural Santa will visit and you can even accomplish your last-minute holiday shopping needs with the mini market and gift-wrapping station. Add a little something extra to your photos with some face paint too! Nov. 18, 2023 – Jan. 2, 2024.
City Hall (FREE)
Admire the Christmas tree at Hermann Square, or attend the annual tree lighting ceremony on Dec. 2, 2023, from 6pm to 8pm, which will feature live music and free photos with Santa.
Our Favorite Houston Christmas Looks
When it comes to shopping, we love a good festive look, so here are some of my favorite holiday outfits.
More Houston Christmas Events
River Oaks Boulevard Lights (FREE)
Take a drive through the River Oaks neighborhood with its 1,600 estates and mansions decorated to the nines with all kinds of holiday displays. According to their Facebook page, the best houses can also be found on Inwood Drive and Del Monte Drive, where you’ll find the “River Oaks Santa House.”
You can find other Christmas activities (for an additional charge) in the River Oaks neighborhood as well, like the Christmas Village on the Ima Hogg Estate. Be mindful that parking is limited, and it is recommended you drive-through rather than parking and walking the area. Some houses will remain lit until the Feast of the Three Kings, 5PM to 10PM nightly.
The Light Park
One of the many locations across Texas, the Light Park in Katy is a renowned drive-through holiday light display, known as one of the world’s longest light tunnels. The park features millions of lights, providing a dazzling show described as “the Brightest Show South of the North Pole.”
Beyond the light tunnel, the park also includes other electrifying light shows across its locations. Each show boasts over a million lights, adding to the festive atmosphere and making it a must-visit destination during the holiday season.
Only one ticket is needed per vehicle, starting at just $39 each. This event is also pet-friendly with food and drink available for purchase. Get yours online now! The Light Park will be open daily, seven days a week, through New Year’s Day.
2023 Nutcracker Market Honoree: KPRC
Immerse yourself in the festive spirit at this magical Christmas Market at the NRG Center! Wander through a wonderland of holiday delights as you explore the charming vendors offering an array of unique and one-of-a-kind gifts, perfect for all your seasonal needs. From handcrafted treasures to delightful decor, this market showcases the essence of the holiday season. Nov 9 – 12, 2023.
Ride the Polar Express
Brace yourself for a lively journey inspired by The Polar Express. Board the vintage train at the Galveston Railroad Museum, where you’ll be transported to the enchanting North Pole.
Meet beloved characters from the film, such as the conductor, the hobo, the singing chefs, and, of course, Santa Claus himself. Snack on cookies and sip on hot chocolate, served by the singing chefs aboard the train. As the journey progresses, Santa himself will join you on board.
Come in your coziest PJs and embark on a theatrical adventure alongside your family. Tickets begin at $48. Nov. 10 – Dec. 22, 2023. Times vary.
Galaxy Lights
Experience Space Center Houston in a whole new way with Galaxy Lights, an immersive holiday experience with some displays that are so large, they have to be outside.
You’ll see kinetic lights, a 20-foot Christmas tree, and 3D holiday decor; you’ll drink hot cocoa, eat holiday snacks, and roast s’mores by the fire, and you’ll have the chance to learn a little about light, interact with light exhibits underneath and inside the aircraft on site, and dance under flurries from a snow machine.
Tickets start at $19.95 and can be purchased online. Nov. 11, 2023 – Jan. 7, 2024, from 6PM to 10PM, kids 3 and under receive free admission. Galaxy Lights will be closed Nov. 13-16, Nov. 23, Dec. 7, Dec. 24 & 25.
Annual Old Town Spring Home (FREE)
If you’re still brimming with holiday excitement after enjoying all these Houston Christmas activities, make sure to visit the 41st Annual Old Town Spring Home this year. It’s another fantastic stop to keep the festive spirit alive and thriving!
Come and explore quirky boutiques with historic ambience selling both clothing and decor, a craft beer brewery, galleries, museums, and Christmas lights after sunset. Nov. 12, 2023 – Dec. 24, 2023.
There will also be a Grinchmas Sip N Shop on Nov. 18, 2023, from 4pm to 8pm, where green drinks will be handed out as you browse.
Dasher’s Drive-Thru
Chilly nights might make you want to stay in, but you can still get out and celebrate the holidays from the warmth of your car.
Dasher’s Drive-Thru offers light tunnel slots every 30 minutes, along with Christmas displays synced to music.
There is also a Park & Watch package you can add-on if you’d like, which includes 10 redeemable tokens for activities like an inflatable obstacle course, Santa photos, character photos, souvenirs, plus food and drinks! Tickets and parking passes can be purchased online. Nov. 17 – Dec. 31, 2023, from 6pm to 9pm.
Big Rivers Christmas
Explore an array of Christmas activities sprawling across this 85-acre park! This incredible event showcases not only miles of lights synchronized to festive tunes in Dasher’s Drive-Thru, but also has a walk-through display of dazzling Christmas lights.
Exciting additions include a 12-square foot, inflatable obstacle course and an opportunity to meet Santa! Delight the family with live music from local artists on select nights as well, along with other festive activities and carnival rides. Tickets available online. Nov. 17 through New Years Eve, 2023.
Visit the Botanic Gardens
Radiant Nature, brought to you by Reliant, promises a memorable journey for the whole family.
The Houston Botanic Gardens brings you Radiant Nature by Reliant, with 50 all-new, giant Chinese lanterns in anticipation of Lunar New Year. They will be positioned all throughout the garden, set to holiday music, along with holiday photo backdrops and food/drink for sale!
The garden will also house an interactive zone alive with illuminated seesaws, swings, and a digital kaleidoscope.
Children 3 and under are free. Parking on-site is $10, but there is a shuttle service available off-site for $5. Tickets start at $28.50 and are available online. Nov. 17, 2023 – Feb. 25, 2024.
Zoo Lights at Houston Zoo
Embrace the enchantment of the holiday season at TXU Energy’s Zoo Lights at Houston Zoo!
Wander through the grounds, aglow with festive lights, including animal-themed lanterns, a 33-foot tall color-changing holiday tree, an enchanted forest, glowing flowers and butterflies, and a Coca-Cola Polar Bear display. Snap photos with Santa at his workshop through Dec. 23.
Tickets begin at $29.70, with prices depending on the day you choose to attend. Purchase yours online now. Nov. 17, 2023 – Jan. 7, 2024. 5:30pm – 10:30pm, last entry at 9:30 p.m. Closed on Dec. 6, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.
A Tree Lighting, Snow Globes, Live Reindeer & More (FREE)
Join the annual tree lighting celebration, presented by Texas Children’s Hospital, and be part of an enchanting moment as they illuminate their magnificent 51-foot Christmas tree.
Immerse yourself in the magic of giant inflatable snow globes, live performances, and capture memorable moments with a live reindeer, Santa’s sleigh, costume characters, and a festive holiday backdrop. Nov. 17, 2023, from 6pm – 9pm.
Sugar Land Holiday Lights
Sugar Land Holiday Lights has transformed their local baseball field into a mesmerizing, interactive masterpiece shimmering with Christmas lights.
With over 3 million lights illuminating the entire space, holiday shopping, 10 themed areas, delicious food, movie nights, visits from Santa Claus (until 12/23), and a bunch of other attractions, it’s an immersive holiday experience that truly sparkles! Nov. 17, 2023 – Jan. 1, 2024, hours vary. Tickets are priced at $12 -$15 and you can buy them here.
Magical Winter Lights
One of the joys of the holiday season is seeing Christmas lights strewn everywhere you go, but the Magical Winter Lights show will blow your mind!
Covering over 20-acres with all sorts of themed displays celebrating Houston and the holiday season, as well as carnival food, games, an interactive dinosaur kingdom and opportunities to meet Santa, you’re in for a night filled with Christmas spirit and fun.
Check their website for information on upcoming live performances and ticket prices. Parking on-site is free. Nov. 17, 2023 – Jan. 7, 2024, hours vary, closed Jan. 2-Jan. 4, 2023.
Home for the Holidays Market
Explore over 100 vendors at the Katy Merrell Center, pose at the complimentary photo booth, catch a glimpse of Santa, and enjoy delights from food trucks while indulging in wine or cocktails.
Whether you’re aiming to tackle your Christmas shopping or simply unwind, this event offers the ideal setting for both activities. You won’t find anything like this on Main Street. Tickets range from $5 – $20 and are available online. Children 12 and under are free! Nov. 17-19, 2023, hours will vary.
Lighting of the Doves Festival (FREE)
The Lighting of the Doves marks the beginning of the holiday season with a symbolic illumination signifying peace. Drawing crowds of thousands annually, this event celebrates cultural diversity with traditional and international performances, spotlighting holiday customs from around the globe.
Experience snow play areas, children’s activities, vendor booths and more! The grand finale includes Santa’s arrival by sleigh down The Woodlands Waterway, followed by a breathtaking fireworks display. Nov. 18, 2023, from 3pm - 8pm.
Visit a Christmas Theme Park
If you’re obsessed with Christmas, Moody Gardens in Galveston has created a holiday wonderland that you won’t want to miss out on. This hotel has created a Christmas-themed Disneyland with attractions like breakfast with Santa, a festival of lights, an ice skating rink, holiday 3D films, train rides, nightly fireside s’mores, and holiday buffets. And keep an eye out for Santa!
Extend your Christmas-themed itinerary and book a stay at Moody Gardens for a night or two for a spin on your typical Christmas. They are even open Christmas Day!
Tickets can be purchased online. Nov. 18, 2023 – Jan. 6, 2024, open daily from 10am to 7pm, and from 12pm to 5pm on Christmas Day.
Visit a Giant Gingerbread Village (FREE)
Visit the annual Gingerbread Village and you’ll feel as if you’ve been dropped into a game of Candy Land with picture-perfect backdrops. This year, you can look forward to 5 new displays! Nov. 23, 2023 – Jan. 8, 2024.
Grinch Day
At the Rosenberg Railroad Museum, an unexpected visitor is up to his old tricks, attempting to swipe Christmas! Keep a keen eye out, as he’s cleverly concealed among the artifacts and exhibits. Will you join in thwarting his plans and saving Christmas from being snatched away this year? You can buy tickets online for between $8 and $10. Nov. 24, 2023, from 10am – 3pm.
Christmas at Dewberry Farm
Dewberry Farm’s Berry Merry Christmas celebration will include two new light shows, visits with Santa, wagon rides along the illuminated “Berry Merry Trail,” a stroll through the captivating “Merry & Light” walk-through display, and seasonal food and beverage specials amidst 40 enchanting farm attractions.
Upgrade to VIP Admission and enjoy everything from General Admission plus exclusive perks including unlimited hot chocolate, a Christmas cookie, and magic light glasses. Tickets are available online for $22.95 – $74.95. Nov. 24 – Dec. 23, 2023
Ride a Christmas Train
You can take an open-air train ride on the Christmas Train in Alvin while enjoying beautiful displays of Christmas lights.
This family-friendly event offers a place to grab a bite of pizza, a hot cup of cocoa or other sweet treats to satisfy your sweet tooth. A general store is also available to pick up some keepsakes. Children under the age of 2 can ride for free. Tickets can be purchased online. Nov. 24 – 25 & Dec. 1 – 2, 8 – 9, 15 – 16, 20 – 23 from 6pm – 10pm, and Dec. 7, 14 & 17 – 19 from 6pm – 9pm.
A Tree Lighting & LED Dance Floor – Pearland (FREE)
Embrace the Christmas spirit as Santa graces you with his presence to illuminate the Pearland Town Center Christmas Tree. Santa’s arrival, at around 6 pm, will mark the beginning of the ceremony, which will be followed by a fireworks display!
Dance the night away on the LED dancefloor, with accompanying music by the band, The Slags! Have fun with the LED swings and seesaws, and don’t miss the chance to shop at the Holiday Gift Market — an experience filled with festive joy and entertainment for everyone! Nov. 25, 2023, from 6pm – 9pm.
Sweets & Treats at the Railroad Museum
Celebrate the arrival of Christmas with a delightful hunt for sweet treats! Scattered across the Rosenberg Railroad Museum grounds are a few candies waiting for you to find them! If you manage to find them all, you’ll be in for a sweet reward of your own!
Adults – $10 and kids – $8. Get your tickets here. Nov. 25, 2023, from 10am – 4pm.
Tree Lighting Ceremony – Conroe (FREE)
Bring your entire family to revel in the festive joy of Christmas at the City of Conroe’s Tree Lighting Ceremony at Heritage Place (6:30pm).
Following this celebration, revel in the enchantment of Christmas on Main St. in downtown Conroe. What a wonderful way to kick off the holiday season just outside of Houston! Nov. 28, 2023, from 6:30pm to 9pm.
Holly Jolly Jingle (FREE)
Experience the magic of the season at Conroe ISD’s holiday concert, with performances by its very own, talented students at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion. Nov. 30, 2023, 7pm.
The gates will open at 6pm and will feature activities like arts and crafts, pictures with Santa and characters from Disney’s Frozen, pre-concert performances, and rides aboard the Candy Cane Express in the Gold Lot starting at 5:30pm.
Bellaire Holiday in the Park (FREE)
Join the City of Bellaire as they usher in the most wonderful time of the year with their festive Holiday in the Park event! Revel in live music performed by local choirs, indulge in thrilling snow slides, savor delicious food, immerse yourself in the joyful celebrations, and more! Nov. 30, 2023, from 6pm – 8:30pm.
The Seabrook Christmas Tree Lighting (FREE)
Get ready for an evening brimming with magic, music, and fun as the Seabrook Christmas Tree is illuminated! The Community House grounds will also feature cookies, hot chocolate, vendors, and musical performances by talented area schools.
And guess who’s making a special appearance? Santa Claus himself will be there to add to the festive merriment! Nov. 30, 2023, from 6pm to 8pm.<