Cozy winter village adorned with Christmas ornaments and festive characters in Houston

Houston Christmas Guide 2026

Houston's Best Christmas Events for 2026!

Where else would a church choir sing from inside a 32-foot Christmas tree? In Pasadena, at the First Baptist Church Singing Christmas Tree, which sets the tone for Christmas around Houston: big, warm, and a little unexpected. TXU Energy Presents Zoo Lights fills the Houston Zoo with wildlife-themed displays, and the Tomball German Christmas Market holds a yodeling contest. Snow is scarce, though Bellaire puts lots of it in the forecast for Holiday in the Park. Know an event we missed? Email us; new listings go up all through the 2026 season.

Jump to: Lights · Markets · Shows · Activities

Houston Holiday Light Displays

TXU Energy Presents Zoo Lights

After dark, the Houston Zoo turns its paths into a glowing trail of wildlife-themed light displays. Stop along the way for s'mores, churro fries, and hot chocolate. The real animals keep daytime hours, so the glowing ones are the stars here. Kids two and under get in free.

Nov 19, 2026 – Jan 4, 2027 (select dates) · Website

Galaxy Lights

Space Center Houston puts on a space-themed holiday light show, with displays inspired by space exploration and Houston's role in it. Look for astronaut selfies, Apollo-themed lanterns, science-of-light demos, and the short film Holidays in Space. Then make s'mores over a fire with hot cocoa. Houston, we have s'mores.

2026 dates not posted yet · Website

River Oaks Christmas Lights

Each December, the grand estates of River Oaks glow with sparkling lights, draped trees, and creatively themed mansions. The easy way to see it is a slow drive through the neighborhood, though guided tours by open-air bus, horse-drawn carriage, or limousine are another option. It's free to look.

2026 dates not posted yet · Free

Dickinson Festival of Lights (Dickinson)

Paul Hopkins Park in Dickinson becomes a free walk-through light festival, with a life-size castle, a military tribute, and a 22-foot tree programmed for nightly light shows. Decorate a cookie at the Cookie Factory, then hit the Blinky Hut for light-up wands and 3D glasses. Parking and shuttles are free.

Nov 28 – Dec 30, 2026 (select dates) · Website

Radiant Nature at Houston Botanic Garden

Radiant Nature fills Houston Botanic Garden with larger-than-life lanterns, mixing traditional Chinese lantern craft with interactive pieces. Look for a towering peach tree lantern, glowing mythical horses, bluebonnets and poinsettias in light, and illuminated swings. A marketplace sells handcrafted gifts, and seasonal food and drinks are along the paths.

2026 dates not posted yet · Website

Sugar Land Holiday Lights (Sugar Land)

Constellation Field in Sugar Land fills up with over 3.5 million lights, light tunnels, themed displays of world landmarks, and a 40-foot tree with synchronized light shows. A holiday village has vendors and seasonal treats. Mini golf comes with admission, while the synthetic ice rink and carnival rides cost extra.

2026 dates not posted yet · Website

Lighting of the Doves Festival (The Woodlands)

The Woodlands Township lights a flock of giant doves at Town Green Park, right after Santa arrives by sleigh along The Woodlands Waterway. Before the fireworks, catch ice carvers, performances on two stages, balloon art, and free crafts from The Woodlands Children's Museum. Snow play takes a $5 wristband.

Nov 21, 2026 · Website

The Christmas Train (Alvin)

In Alvin, The Christmas Train at Victory Camp is an old-fashioned train ride through hundreds of thousands of lights and holiday displays. Off the train, there's The Great Elf Show, Santa's Speedway Go-Karts, a Gingerbread Village, and a Nativity Story Area. Big Al's Pizza Parlor handles dinner, and parking is free.

2026 dates not posted yet · Website

Texas Winter Lights

Texas Winter Lights takes over the Altitude Rooftop at the Marriott Marquis Houston, with Western decor and a glowing lazy river shaped like Texas. Expect nightly artificial snowfall, live country music, holiday movies, and Santa meet-and-greets. Groups can reserve an igloo, and the High Dive grill serves brisket sandwiches.

2026 dates not posted yet · not available · Website

Hometown Christmas Festival (Pearland)

Pearland Parks & Recreation kicks off the season at Independence Park with stage entertainment, holiday lights, inflatables, vendors, and food trucks. Kids can play in the snow, Santa joins the stage program, and a drone show closes the evening. Admission is free; general parking is at Pearland High School.

Dec 4, 2026 · Admission is free. · Website

Magical Winter Lights (Katy)

Magical Winter Lights sets up more than 60 giant lantern displays at Katy Mills Mall, made in the Zigong lantern tradition. Walk the interactive Space Maze, meet the life-size dinosaurs in Dino Land, and catch the nightly Chinese Acrobats. Parking is free, and food vendors and food trucks are on site.

2026 dates not posted yet · Website

Classic Christmas at Katy Mills Mall (Katy)

Classic Christmas at Katy Mills Mall builds an Alpine-themed light trail across 90,000 square feet, with a chalet that gets real snow flurries. Skate under a canopy of lights, ride the snow slide (beginner and advanced slopes), and visit Santa and Mrs. Claus. Bonus, there's après-ski dancing, no lift ticket required.

2026 dates not posted yet · Free · Website

The Light Park - Spring (Spring)

The Light Park in Spring is a mile-long drive-through show of millions of lights synchronized to music, with DJ Polar Ice setting the mood. Tune your radio to the show's station and turn off your headlights. One ticket covers the entire car, and the dog is welcome to ride along.

2026 dates not posted yet · Website

The Light Park (Katy)

In Katy, The Light Park's drive-through route runs a mile past millions of lights synced to music by DJ Polar Ice. Pick up snacks, light wands, and magic glasses before you roll in, then stay in the car for the show. Weeknights tend to be less crowded than weekends.

2026 dates not posted yet · Website

Lights in the Heights

Lights in the Heights turns historic Woodland Heights into a neighborhood-wide light show, with homeowners competing in categories like Best House. Stroll the decorated streets at your own pace, since self-guided tours run all December, and listen for live music. It's free, and the bragging rights go to the neighbors.

2026 dates not posted yet · Free

Christmas Tree Lighting (Sugar Land)

Sugar Land Town Square lights its Christmas tree with holiday performers on the main stage and hot chocolate to sip. Kids can write letters to Santa, pose for keepsake photos with him, and slide down inflatable slides. Park free at Mercer Stadium and take the shuttle, which runs nonstop to the square.

Nov 20, 2026 · Website

The Woodlands Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony (The Woodlands)

Market Street in The Woodlands lights its 70-foot Christmas tree, dressed in over 25,000 multi-colored lights synchronized to holiday music. Hundreds of guests gather in Central Park for the moment. It's free, and a 70-foot tree makes an easy meeting spot.

2026 dates not posted yet · Free · Website

Jingle on the Boardwalk (Kemah)

Kemah Boardwalk gets into the season with a visit from Santa, holiday music, and holiday crafts for the kids. Bring a toy for the on-site toy drive. Waterfront spots like Landry's Seafood House and Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. are right there for dinner, but leave the dog at home.

Dec 4 – Dec 20, 2026 (select dates) · Website

Johnsons' Christmas Corner

The Johnson family turns their home into an animated light display synchronized to music, from traditional carols to Trans-Siberian Orchestra, rock, and movie soundtracks. Tune your car radio and watch the lights dance from the street. Kids can send letters to Santa. It's free, and donations go to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

2026 dates not posted yet · Website

Houston Markets and Shopping

Houston Ballet Nutcracker Market

The Houston Ballet Nutcracker Market fills Reliant Center with more than 280 merchants across over 500,000 square feet, many of them local to Houston. Proceeds benefit Houston Ballet, its academy, and community programs. When your arms fill up, use package check at booth 923. Kids two and under get in free.

Nov 12 – Nov 15, 2026 · Website

Tomball German Christmas Market (Tomball)

Old Town Tomball goes German for the holidays with 150-plus street vendors, four live music stages, and more than 30 entertainers. Enter the Bier Stein Hoist, the Chicken Dance Contest, or the yodeling contest, if your lungs are up to it. Admission and parking are free, but beer sales are cash only.

Dec 11 – Dec 13, 2026 · Admission and parking are free. · Website

Sugar Plum Market (Stafford)

The Fort Bend Junior Service League's Sugar Plum Market brings more than 100 Texas vendors to the Stafford Centre, plus a premium raffle showcase. Preview Night and a merchant fashion show each have their own ticket. Proceeds go as grants to nonprofits serving Fort Bend County, so your gift shopping does double duty.

Nov 5 – Nov 7, 2026 · Website

Junior League Holiday Market (The Woodlands)

The Junior League of The Woodlands sets up its annual holiday market at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel & Convention Center. Shop local boutique goods, personalized gifts, and holiday ornaments, plus a little something for yourself. All proceeds go to programs on food insecurity, teen empowerment, and family support in North Harris and Montgomery counties.

Nov 20 – Nov 22, 2026 · Website

Holiday VIBE Market Houston

Holiday VIBE Market Houston brings 120-plus local artists and makers to The Office on Travis Street, with ceramics, blown glass, fine art, and leather goods. Live music, an art gallery, Santa photos, and a cocktail and espresso bar keep things moving. Admission is free, and 15 concept restaurants are on hand.

2026 dates not posted yet · Free · Website

Houston Heritage Holiday Market

The Heritage Society hosts a two-day outdoor market in Sam Houston Park, with 20-plus local vendors selling handmade gifts and holiday decor. Kids get craft stations, and there are Santa photo ops and live music. The Candlelight and Carols Tour opens the park's historic homes by candlelight, with costumed reenactors.

2026 dates not posted yet · Website

The Velvet Stocking Christmas Market (Webster)

The Velvet Stocking at Webster Civic Center is an all-handmade, juried Christmas bazaar from a co-op of local artisans. Each vendor has its own category, so no two booths sell the same thing. Start at the Christmas tree forest up front, full of original handmade ornaments. One central checkout takes cash and credit.

Nov 12 – Nov 14, 2026 · Website

Holiday on 19th Street

Holiday on 19th Street puts the Heights' locally owned shops in the spotlight, from clothing boutiques and gift shops to antique stores and art galleries. Look for handmade jewelry, vintage clothes, and local eats along the historic street. It's free to stroll, and since parking gets busy, walking or a rideshare helps.

2026 dates not posted yet · Free · Website

Home For The Holidays Gift Market (Katy)

Billed as Katy's largest gift market, Home For The Holidays brings 100 to 175 vendors per show, from local artisans to small businesses. Shop handmade gifts and holiday decor across two floors, chat with the makers, and stop by the photo booth or meet Santa. Concessions are on site.

2026 dates not posted yet · Website

Fairfield Christmas Market (Cypress)

The Fairfield Women's Club fills the Good Shepherd Church parking lot in Cypress with more than 105 vendor booths and several food trucks, for an early start on Christmas shopping. It runs rain or shine. Afterward, the Fairfield Lighted Christmas Parade gets going, and anyone can walk in it or watch.

Dec 5, 2026 · Website

Heights Mercantile Holiday Market

Heights Mercantile on Heights Boulevard hosts a holiday market of Houston-based artisans and makers selling handcrafted gifts and seasonal treats. Expect live music, family-friendly crafts, face painting, and, yes, dunk booths. Admission is free.

2026 dates not posted yet · Free

Houston Center Holiday Market

Houston Center hosts an indoor holiday market downtown, with 20 local vendors selling handcrafted gifts, seasonal goods, and holiday treats. Live music plays while you shop, and the hot chocolate is on the house. Step out to the terrace for artificial snow, the most reliable kind in Houston.

2026 dates not posted yet · Free

Magic For All Christmas Market

The Magic For All Christmas Market features ten vendors who are individuals with disabilities or businesses that support them. Bring a new, unwrapped toy for BEAR and get three professional photos with Santa. A caramel apple truck handles dessert, and the holiday raffle benefits the Haley Rasco Foundation.

Dec 19, 2026 · Website

ABC Holiday Market

The ABC Holiday Market puts local authors and artists front and center, with books by Houston-area writers, handcrafted art, and panel talks with creators. Kids can catch storytime with Santa, and there are seasonal snacks and warm drinks. Good news for anyone with a reader on their list.

2026 dates not posted yet

Fallbrook's 2026 Holiday Market

Fallbrook Church on Walters Road hosts a casual holiday market with local vendors selling gifts and holiday items, plus food and seasonal activities. It's an easy way to cross a few names off your list close to home. Admission is free.

Dec 12, 2026 · Website

Houston Shows and Entertainment

The Nutcracker

Houston Ballet's The Nutcracker is a holiday tradition at the Wortham Theater Center, with Tchaikovsky's score played live, elaborate costumes and sets, and Clara and the Nutcracker Prince leading the way. It's recommended for ages 2 and up, and every guest needs a ticket. Bring a layer; the orchestra level can get cold.

2026 dates not posted yet · Website

A Christmas Carol at Alley Theatre

Alley Theatre stages Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol, a Houston holiday tradition, with Victorian costumes and detailed sets following Scrooge through the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future. It runs about two and a half hours with one intermission. Discounts are offered for students, seniors, military, and groups of 10 or more.

2026 dates not posted yet · Website

Houston Symphony: Very Merry Pops

Vocalist Mikaela Bennett joins the Houston Symphony and Houston Symphony Chorus at Jones Hall for treasured carols and holiday sing-alongs, with a visit from Santa Claus. Every show is a Theme Night, so dress the part. Tickets start at $62, and the concert is for ages 6 and up.

Dec 10 – Dec 13, 2026 (select dates) · Tickets starting at $62. · Website

Handel's Messiah

The Houston Symphony and Houston Symphony Chorus perform Handel's Messiah at Jones Hall, with Ken-David Masur conducting and four guest soloists. The Hallelujah Chorus? Yes, it's on the program. Tickets start at $58, the concert is for ages 6 and up, and the Saturday performance is also livestreamed.

Dec 18 – Dec 20, 2026 · Tickets starting at $58. · Website

First Baptist Church Singing Christmas Tree (Pasadena)

At First Baptist Church in Pasadena, 170 singers perform from inside a 32-foot tree lit with 10,000 lights, backed by a 35-piece instrumental ensemble and a drama cast of more than 75 telling the story of Christ. About 150 volunteers build the tree. Yes, it really sings. General admission is $14.

Dec 10 – Dec 13, 2026 · Website

Mariah Carey's Christmas Time

Mariah Carey brings her Christmas Time concert to the Toyota Center, performing her timeless holiday classics along with fan-favorite chart-toppers. Expect a big, festive arena night with the global superstar. Warm up your high notes on the drive over.

2026 dates not posted yet · Website

José Hernández’ Merry-Achi Christmas

José Hernández and his Mariachi Sol de México bring traditional mariachi music and holiday favorites with a mariachi twist to Jones Hall, joined by dancers from Mixteco Ballet Folklórico. This one is not a Houston Symphony concert. Tickets start at $58, it's for ages 6 and up, and groups of 10 or more save.

Dec 21, 2026 · Website

Ho-Ho-Holiday

Ho-Ho-Holiday is the Houston Symphony's sensory-inclusive family concert at Jones Hall, with favorite carols, sparkling decorations, and an appearance by Santa Claus. Kids are welcome to move and dance, and quiet spaces and noise-reducing headphones are available. There's no age limit, no intermission, and tickets start at $40.

Dec 12, 2026 · Website

Houston Repertoire Ballet's The Nutcracker (Cypress)

Houston Repertoire Ballet dances The Nutcracker at the CFISD Visual and Performing Arts Center in Cypress, with its own orchestra playing live and Ballet West guest artists as the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier. Tickets start at $30. There's no late seating, so plan to arrive 30 minutes early.

Dec 4 – Dec 6, 2026 · Website

_The Holiday_ in Concert with Live Orchestra

Nancy Meyers' romantic comedy The Holiday plays on a cinema-size screen at Jones Hall while the Houston Symphony performs Hans Zimmer's score live, led by conductor Jason Seber. Two women swap homes for Christmas and find love; you just swap the couch for a concert hall. It's for ages 6 and up.

Nov 20, 2026 · Website

Joyful Fanfares: Holiday Brass Spectacular

The Houston Symphony's brass and percussion sections take the Jones Hall stage under conductor Gonzalo Farias, mixing classical works with popular holiday favorites and a little humor. Tickets start at $58, and the concert is for ages 6 and up. Can't make it in person? There's a livestream for the Sunday show.

Dec 19 – Dec 20, 2026 · Website

Movies Under the Stars: Elf

Downtown Houston+ screens Elf outdoors at Market Square Park, free, with lawn-blanket seating. Spread out a blanket and bring takeout from one of the surrounding restaurants to eat during the movie. It's rated PG, so the kiddos can come too.

Dec 10, 2026 · Website

Movies Under the Stars: The Santa Clause 2026

Downtown Houston+ hosts a free open-air screening of The Santa Clause at Trebly Park. In the PG-rated movie, a man accidentally causes Santa to fall from his roof and gets recruited to take his place. Bring a lawn blanket and takeout from a nearby restaurant.

Dec 17, 2026 · Website

A Beatles Holiday Cabaret

The Music Box Theater's A Beatles Holiday Cabaret mixes classic Christmas tunes with favorite Beatles songs at Queensbury Theatre, and it's something of a Music Box Yuletide institution. Sunday shows are matinees. Reserved seats are $60 and general admission is $45. All you need is a ticket.

Nov 28 – Dec 23, 2026 · Website

Vienna Light Orchestra - The Light of Christmas (Sugar Land)

The Vienna Light Orchestra plays classic and contemporary Christmas music at Smart Financial Centre in Sugar Land, in the glow of thousands of flickering candles. Expect a full orchestra of international musicians, vocal performances, and holiday costumes and stage sets. Tickets from $30.

2026 dates not posted yet · Tickets from $30 · Website

Grand Kyiv Ballet Holiday Treat (Stafford)

Grand Kyiv Ballet brings a festive evening of classic ballet to the Stafford Centre, blending Ukrainian tradition with Christmas storytelling. Look for holiday classics, costumes inspired by Ukrainian and holiday themes, and live orchestral accompaniment. Stick around for a post-show Q&A with the dancers.

2026 dates not posted yet · not available

Texas City Holiday Follies (Dickinson)

StageWorks Performing Arts Center in Dickinson puts on the Texas City Holiday Follies, a musical revue of classic and contemporary Christmas songs, energetic dance numbers, and festive costumes and sets. It works for all ages and makes a good first holiday musical for younger audiences. Parking is ample, and concessions are sold.

2026 dates not posted yet · Website

Christmas Carols by Candlelight

Resurrection MCC on West 11th Street hosts Christmas Carols by Candlelight, an evening of traditional carols performed live in the glow of candles. Sing along to classics like O Holy Night and Joy to the World, and look for warm drinks and fellowship. Admission is free.

2026 dates not posted yet · Free

The Bay Area Chorus of Greater Houston: He Is Born

The Bay Area Chorus of Greater Houston presents He Is Born, a holiday choral concert at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church on Upper Bay Road. Local singers perform the festive sounds of the season. It's a good fit for families and anyone who likes their Christmas music in harmony.

2026 dates not posted yet · Website

Houston Fun and Events

Willowbrook Mall Santa Visits

Willowbrook Mall in northwest Houston sets Santa up in the decorated JCPenney Court for holiday photos. Book a photo time online to skip the line, and look for themed nights, including pet photo sessions with Santa. The mall's shops are right there for the rest of your list.

2026 dates not posted yet · Free · Website

Holiday in The Gardens (Galveston)

Holiday in The Gardens takes over Moody Gardens in Galveston with a mile-long Holiday Lights Trail of over two million lights, light tunnels, and animated scenes set to music. Add the ICE LAND sculptures, the Arctic Slide, outdoor skating, the Kiddie Train, and 4D films. A Holiday Pass bundles most of it.

2026 dates not posted yet · Website

The Polar Express Train Ride (Galveston)

The Polar Express Train Ride leaves from the historic Union Depot at the Galveston Railroad Museum for an hour-long round trip to the North Pole in heated railcars. The story is read aloud, chefs serve hot chocolate and a cookie, and Santa gives each child a silver bell. Strollers stay at the depot.

Nov 13 – Dec 23, 2026 · Website

Houston City Holiday Parade

The Houston City Holiday Parade rolls through downtown along the Allen Parkway route with floats, marching bands, and larger-than-life helium balloons. Holiday zones at City Hall add Santa's Workshop, crafts, and live performances, and fireworks close out the parade. It's free, and it ushers in the season downtown.

2026 dates not posted yet · Free · Website

Green Mountain Energy Ice at Discovery Green

Green Mountain Energy Ice at Discovery Green is Houston's only outdoor ice rink, powered by renewable energy, under the lights of downtown. Sessions run 75 minutes, with Bumper Cars on Ice, Kids Skate Free Thursdays, and Skating with Santa events. Socks are required for rentals, and METRORail stops at Convention District.

2026 dates not posted yet · Website

Annual Christmas Boat Lane Parade

More than 60 decorated powerboats and sailboats light up Clear Lake for the Christmas Boat Lane Parade, heading through the Kemah Channel toward Galveston Bay after fireworks from Nassau Bay. Public viewing spots include the Kemah Boardwalk, both sides of the Kemah/Seabrook Channel, and South Shore Harbour Marina.

Dec 12, 2026 · Website

Reliant Lights Mayor's Holiday Spectacular

The Reliant Lights Mayor's Holiday Spectacular fills Hermann Square at City Hall with a holiday concert from a headlining artist, ending with the lighting of a towering holiday tree. Who's the surprise headliner? That's part of the fun. Admission is free.

2026 dates not posted yet · Free · Website

Christmas Village - Bayou Bend (River Oaks)

Christmas Village lights up Bayou Bend's 14-acre estate, starting with an illuminated bridge over the bayou. Inside Ima Hogg's mansion, live actors perform in the first-floor rooms. Outside, look for live reindeer, model trains, ornament crafts, Santa photos, and a yarn snowball fight for kids. Admission to Bayou Bend is required.

2026 dates not posted yet · Website

Moody Gardens ICE LAND (Galveston)

Moody Gardens ICE LAND in Galveston packs more than two million pounds of hand-carved ice into a climate-controlled exhibit, with landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Great Wall of China, and the Great Pyramids. Ride the Giant Ice Slide, then warm up (or not) at Shiver's Ice Bar.

2026 dates not posted yet · Website

SnowFest (Missouri City)

Missouri City's SnowFest brings a giant snow hill, carnival rides, games, and a holiday market to the City Hall Complex, plus pictures with Santa. There's also a tree lighting with fireworks. That morning, the SnowFest Parade rolls down Cartwright Road. It's free.

Dec 5, 2026 · Free · Website

The Ice Rink at The Woodlands Town Center (The Woodlands)

The Woodlands Township runs a 21,000-square-foot seasonal ice rink at The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, with festive decorations, theatrical lighting, and music. Beginners get a smaller practice rink, toddler skates, and rental walkers. Two-hour admission includes skates: $16 for ages 6 and up, $8 for ages 5 and under.

from Nov 20, 2026 · Website

Ice at the Galleria

Ice at the Galleria is an indoor rink under the glass dome of The Galleria, open year-round and decked out for the holidays beside a 55-foot Christmas tree. Public sessions come with skate rentals, plus Learn to Skate classes, broomball, and holiday skating shows. It may be the coolest spot in the mall.

2026 dates not posted yet · Website

Discovery Green Tree Lighting

Discovery Green starts the season downtown by lighting a 42-foot tree with nearly 30,000 lights, with live music on the main stage and craft stations for all ages. Meet a range of Santas, including Black Santa and Pancho Claus, as the Green Mountain Energy Ice rink opens for skating. Admission is free.

2026 dates not posted yet · Free · Website

A Charlie Brown Christmas 5K/10K

A Charlie Brown Christmas 5K/10K starts at the Addicks Park and Ride, on flat out-and-back courses, with an untimed Snoopy Kids Dash for ages 12 and under. Every runner gets a Peanuts bib, a T-shirt, and a retro TV spinner medal. Santa stops by, and the 5K is $62.95.

Dec 5, 2026 · Website

Holly Jolly Jingle (The Woodlands)

More than 500 Conroe ISD student musicians play holiday classics on stages all around The Pavilion in The Woodlands, so you can wander the grounds and find music around every corner. Santa visits are free, and so is the show; no ticket required. The Pavilion has a clear bag policy.

Dec 3, 2026 · Free show; no ticket required. · Website

Home for the Holidays in Old Town Spring (Spring)

Old Town Spring's historic village glows with thousands of lights for Home for the Holidays, with live bands, shopping, and a Trail of Lights. Write to Santa at the Letters to Santa station, catch the tree lighting with Santa, and bring the dog for pet-friendly photo nights. It's free.

2026 dates not posted yet · Free

Holiday Fantasy: North Pole's Got Talent (Galveston)

At the Moody Gardens Convention Center in Galveston, Holiday Fantasy: North Pole's Got Talent fills the stage with acrobats, aerialists, and fire dancers in a search for the season's brightest star. Evening tickets add a Holiday Buffet Dinner, and both evening and matinee tickets include the Holiday Lights. Parking is free.

2026 dates not posted yet · Website

Holiday in the Park (Bellaire)

Bellaire Town Square welcomes the season with Holiday in the Park, an outdoor evening of music from local choirs, food, and family fun. The forecast? Lots and lots of snow, according to the city. Questions go to the Bellaire Recreation Center.

Dec 3, 2026 · Website

Seabrook Tree Lighting Ceremony (Seabrook)

Seabrook lights its community Christmas tree on the Seabrook Community House grounds, with area school choirs and the Seabrook Intermediate Band. Santa arrives with a Seabrook Volunteer Fire Department escort, and the SVFD Auxiliary hands out free hot cocoa and cookies. Park free at City Hall or Bay Elementary, not on side streets.

Dec 3, 2026 · Free community event. · Website

TMC Helix Park Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony 2026

The Texas Medical Center lights its holiday tree at TMC Helix Park, with live ensemble music and festive displays around the park. Complimentary hot cocoa and a holiday treat are part of the deal. Park on the street or in the surface lot on Dynamic Way.

Dec 3, 2026 · Website

Run Houston! Sugar Land Santa 5K & 10K (Sugar Land)

The finale of the Run Houston! Series heads to Sugar Land with a timed 5K, an untimed 5K, a 10K, and a Kid's 1K for ages 12 and under. Friends can track you live and send audio cheers through the RaceJoy app. The 5K is $39.99 and the 10K is $49.99.

Dec 5, 2026 · $39.99 for the 5K; $49.99 for the 10K. · Website

Houston SantaCon Bar Crawl 2026

Santa suits, elf outfits, and ugly Christmas sweaters take over participating Houston bars for this 21+ crawl, which checks in at Cedar Creek on West 20th Street. Your wristband and route map get you into every stop, with drink specials along the way, at your own pace. Bring a photo ID.

Dec 19, 2026 · Website

Sugar Land NYE Ball with Fireworks (Sugar Land)

Sugar Land Holiday Lights at Constellation Field rings in the new year with live music, DJ sets, and a midnight fireworks show. Before the countdown, walk through over 3 million lights, ride the Ferris wheel or carousel, and try the synthetic ice rink. Food and drinks come from local vendors.

2026 dates not posted yet · Website

Frost & Fire New Year's Eve

Frost & Fire rings in the new year on S. Gessner Road with a seated dinner, an open bar, and a DJ. Live entertainment and exotic performers keep the night going, with a 360 video booth and a photographer to catch it all. It's for ages 14 and up, and parking is free.

Dec 31, 2026 · Website

27th Annual Benefit Christmas Dance

Navidad En El Barrio's benefit Christmas dance at Baker Ripley House puts a DJ on Tejano, cumbia, salsa, merengue, R&B, and pop. Bring your own food or plan a table potluck; set-ups, beer, and soft drinks are sold there. Bring one canned good for a local shelter, too.

Nov 14, 2026 · Website

Rosenberg Hometown Holiday Festival (Rosenberg)

The City of Rosenberg fills Historic Downtown Rosenberg with its Hometown Holiday Festival, a community celebration with festive decorations and a day of holiday fun for all ages. Stroll the downtown streets and see the town come out for the season. Admission is free.

2026 dates not posted yet · Free · Website

Christmas on Main (La Porte)

Christmas on Main is La Porte's hometown Christmas celebration, bringing holiday cheer to the heart of town along Main Street. Locals and visitors gather to celebrate the season and make a few holiday memories. Main Street, it turns out, is a fine place for it.

Dec 3, 2026 · Website

Santa Sightings (La Porte)

Santa Sightings brings Santa Claus to Five Points Plaza in La Porte, where kids can hand-deliver their Christmas wish lists and pose for photos with him. It's free, and no registration is needed. Leave the pets at home for this one.

2026 dates not posted yet · Free · Website

Pictures with Santa at First Colony Mall (Sugar Land)

First Colony Mall in Sugar Land sets up Santa for professional photos amid the mall's holiday decorations, a classic Christmas stop. Parking is free, and there are EV charging stations by Macy's and Dick's Sporting Goods if the car needs a top-up too.

2026 dates not posted yet · Website