As the holiday season approaches, Houston transforms into a festive wonderland filled with twinkling lights, joyful events, and exciting activities for all ages. The city offers a diverse array of Christmas experiences that capture the spirit of the season and create lasting memories for residents and visitors alike.
From dazzling light displays and interactive exhibits to holiday performances and seasonal markets, Houston provides numerous opportunities to celebrate Christmas in style. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun, romantic outings, or unique cultural experiences, the city’s holiday offerings cater to a wide range of interests and preferences.
1) Visit the Houston Zoo Lights
The Houston Zoo transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season with its dazzling Zoo Lights event. This enchanting spectacle runs from now through January 5, 2025, offering visitors a magical evening experience.
Guests can explore the zoo after dark, marveling at the twinkling lights and festive displays. The event features new attractions this year, including the Whimsical Wildlife Tree at the Reflection Pool.
Zoo Lights operates nightly from 5:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., with last entry at 9:30 p.m. Visitors can expect to see animal-themed lanterns, dancing trees, and oak trees wrapped in sparkling lights throughout the Holiday Grove.
The event combines the charm of the zoo’s natural setting with the magic of holiday illuminations. Families and friends can enjoy cozy nights surrounded by the glow of seasonal cheer.
Zoo Lights has become a beloved Houston tradition, drawing crowds eager to experience the unique blend of wildlife and festive ambiance. It offers a memorable way to celebrate the holidays in a captivating outdoor setting.
2) Ice skate at Discovery Green
Discovery Green transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. The park’s centerpiece is the outdoor ice skating rink, Green Mountain Energy Ice.
Open from November through February, the rink offers a unique opportunity to glide on ice surrounded by the Houston skyline. Visitors can enjoy skating sessions daily, with extended hours during the holidays.
Special events enhance the experience. On select Sundays, Skating Stars performances showcase talented figure skaters, inspiring visitors with impressive routines. These short demonstrations take place from 7:00 to 7:15 pm.
DJ nights add to the festive atmosphere, with DJ G Funk spinning tunes while skaters enjoy the ice. For those seeking a magical moment, Santa makes appearances at the rink, offering the chance to skate alongside jolly old St. Nick.
The rink is located at 1500 McKinney Street in downtown Houston. Admission is free, but there is a fee for skate rentals. The combination of outdoor skating and holiday cheer makes Discovery Green a must-visit destination for Christmas in Houston.
3) Explore the German Christmas Market
The Tomball German Christmas Market offers a festive experience just outside Houston. This annual event brings European holiday charm to Texas from December 8-10, 2024.
Visitors can browse nearly 200 vendor stalls selling unique gifts and crafts. The market features authentic German food and beverages for those wanting to sample traditional flavors.
Live performances and street entertainers add to the lively atmosphere. Families can enjoy activities like the petting zoo, making it fun for all ages.
The market takes place in Tomball’s Old Town near the Historical Train Depot Plaza. It’s about 45 miles northwest of Houston, providing a charming small-town setting.
This event celebrates Tomball’s German heritage and sister city relationship with Telgte, Germany. It’s a great opportunity to experience German Christmas traditions without leaving Texas.
4) See the Nutcracker Ballet at the Houston Ballet
The Houston Ballet presents Stanton Welch’s enchanting production of The Nutcracker at the Wortham Theater Center. This beloved holiday classic brings magic and wonder to audiences of all ages.
Welch’s interpretation, which premiered in 2016, offers a fresh perspective on the timeless tale. The story unfolds through Clara’s eyes, taking viewers on a captivating journey through the Land of Snow and the Kingdom of Sweets.
The production features a full cast of 61 company dancers and over 300 young performers. Elaborate costumes and stunning set designs create a visually spectacular experience.
Performances run from late November through December, with varying showtimes to accommodate different schedules. Ticket prices range from $45 to $145, making it accessible for various budgets.
The Houston Ballet’s Nutcracker has become a cherished holiday tradition for many families in the area. It’s an opportunity to immerse oneself in the beauty of classical ballet and the spirit of the season.
5) Take a holiday lights tour in River Oaks
River Oaks transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland during the holiday season. This upscale Houston neighborhood is renowned for its extravagant Christmas light displays.
Residents of River Oaks spare no expense in decorating their luxurious mansions and sprawling properties. Twinkling lights adorn grand facades, wrap around towering oak trees, and illuminate expansive lawns.
Visitors can embark on a self-guided tour through the neighborhood’s streets from November 25 to December 26, 2024. The best time to view the lights is after sunset when the displays are fully illuminated.
Popular routes include River Oaks Boulevard, Willowick Road, and Inwood Drive. These streets showcase some of the most impressive and creative light installations in the area.
The River Oaks Christmas lights tour offers a free and festive way to experience the holiday spirit. Families, couples, and friends can enjoy the magical atmosphere from the comfort of their own vehicles.
Remember to drive slowly and be considerate of other visitors and residents while touring the neighborhood. The stunning light displays attract many spectators, so expect some traffic during peak evening hours.
6) Attend a concert at the Houston Symphony
The Houston Symphony offers enchanting holiday performances at Jones Hall for the Performing Arts. These concerts blend classic Christmas tunes with orchestral masterpieces, creating a festive atmosphere for all ages.
One popular event is the “Holly Jolly Holiday” concert, specifically designed for families. This kid-friendly show features beloved holiday songs and interactive lobby activities.
Attendees can enjoy complimentary hot chocolate and even meet Santa Claus. The symphony’s skilled musicians bring holiday music to life, captivating audiences with their talent and passion.
These concerts provide a perfect opportunity to dress up and experience the magic of live classical music during the Christmas season. The grand setting of Jones Hall adds to the special ambiance of the performances.
Tickets for Houston Symphony holiday concerts often sell quickly, so early booking is recommended. These shows offer a memorable way to celebrate Christmas and create lasting family traditions.
Christmas Events and Activities
Houston offers a variety of festive experiences for locals and visitors during the holiday season. From enchanting light displays to lively performances, the city’s Christmas events cater to all ages and interests.
Family-Friendly Attractions
The Christmas Village at MFAH’s Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens transforms the area into a winter wonderland. From December 6 to 30, visitors can enjoy dazzling lights, faux snow, and live actors. The 6003 Memorial Drive location provides a perfect backdrop for holiday photos and family fun.
Memorial City Mall hosts Classic Christmas, a 55,000-square-foot holiday extravaganza running until December 29. This immersive experience offers a magical atmosphere for families to create lasting memories.
For a unique adventure, Buffalo Bayou offers Christmas cruises. These boat rides provide a different perspective on Houston’s holiday decorations, combining festive cheer with the city’s waterways.
Holiday Performances and Shows
The Ensemble Theatre presents “Twelve Ways of Christmas” through December 22. This production blends jazz, R&B, and gospel music to create a vibrant holiday experience.
Houston’s theater scene comes alive with seasonal performances. Local venues stage classic Christmas tales and contemporary holiday shows, featuring talented actors and musicians.
Many churches and community centers host Christmas concerts and carol services. These events often showcase local choirs and musicians, offering a mix of traditional and modern holiday music.
Seasonal Dining Experiences
Houston’s culinary scene embraces the holiday spirit with special menus and themed food tours. Restaurants across the city craft festive dishes while guided excursions offer a taste of seasonal flavors.
Festive Restaurant Menus
Many Houston eateries unveil special Christmas menus in December. Brennan’s Houston, known for its Creole cuisine, offers a holiday-inspired menu featuring traditional dishes with a festive twist. Diners can enjoy seasonal favorites like roasted turkey with cornbread dressing or try unique creations such as gingerbread-crusted fish.
Local steakhouses also join the celebration, presenting prime cuts adorned with holiday garnishes. Some restaurants offer prix fixe menus on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, allowing guests to indulge in multi-course meals without the hassle of cooking at home.
Vegetarian and vegan establishments create plant-based holiday feasts, ensuring all dietary preferences are catered to during the festive season.
Holiday-Themed Food Tours
Food tours provide a delightful way to sample Houston’s seasonal offerings. These guided experiences often combine tastings with historical insights about the city’s culinary traditions.
Tours may visit local bakeries to try Christmas cookies and specialty pastries. Participants can sample holiday-spiced coffees and hot chocolates at artisanal cafes.
Some tours focus on international holiday cuisines, exploring how different cultures celebrate through food. These may include stops at German markets for glühwein and stollen or Mexican restaurants for tamales and ponche navideño.
Food tour operators often decorate their vehicles with festive lights and play holiday music, enhancing the cheerful atmosphere. Many tours conclude with a visit to a local chocolatier or candy shop for sweet holiday treats.