10 Ways To Celebrate Christmas In Houston 2024

The holiday season is just around the corner, and Houston is getting ready to jingle all the way into Christmas 2024! Whether you're a native Texan or just visiting, there's no shortage of festive fun to be had in this vibrant city. From sparkling lights to snow-filled wonderlands, we've rounded up the top 10 ways to celebrate Christmas in Houston this year.

In the heart of Texas, Houston transforms into a winter wonderland, offering a wide range of holiday activities, events, and attractions that cater to all ages and interests. Whether you're looking for a fun-filled day with family and friends or a romantic evening with your loved one, Houston has something for everyone.

From iconic festivals to unique experiences, here are the top 10 ways to celebrate Christmas in Houston 2024:

1. The Ice at Discovery Green

Get ready to glide into the holiday season at The Ice at Discovery Green, one of the largest outdoor ice skating rinks in the Southwest. This popular attraction offers a fun and festive atmosphere, complete with twinkling lights, holiday tunes, and delicious food and drinks.

Admission and Ice Skating Fees

Admission to The Ice at Discovery Green is free, but ice skating fees vary depending on the day and time. Enjoy this holiday treat with your loved ones and make some unforgettable memories.

2. Zoo Lights at Houston Zoo

Step into a winter wonderland at the Houston Zoo, where over 1 million lights illuminate the animal exhibits and walking trails. Zoo Lights features festive music, hot chocolate, and delicious treats, making it a fun and memorable holiday outing for the whole family.

Special Events and Activities

This year's Zoo Lights features special events and activities, including a 100-foot-long ice slide, a hot chocolate bar, and a festive holiday market.

3. Space Center Houston's Galaxy Lights

Explore a futuristic winter wonderland at Space Center Houston's Galaxy Lights, where 1.5 million lights and 20 interactive light displays create a truly out-of-this-world experience.

Space-Themed Fun and Activities

This year's Galaxy Lights features space-themed fun and activities, including a lighted Space Shuttle, a Martian landscape, and a stellar light show.

4. Houston Ballet's The Nutcracker

Experience the magic of the holiday season with the Houston Ballet's production of The Nutcracker. This beloved classic features stunning costumes, sets, and choreography, as well as the iconic score by Tchaikovsky.

A Timeless Holiday Tradition

The Nutcracker is a timeless holiday tradition that has captivated audiences for generations. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the magic of ballet and the holiday season.

5. Uptown Holiday Lighting

Kick off the holiday season with the Uptown Holiday Lighting, a festive event that features the lighting of 80-foot tall Christmas trees, as well as live music, food, and drinks.

Family-Friendly Fun

This free event offers something for everyone, including a special appearance by Santa Claus, face painting, and a holiday market.

6. Holiday Markets and Craft Fairs

Get into the holiday spirit by shopping local at one of Houston's many holiday markets and craft fairs. These events feature unique gifts, handmade crafts, and delicious food and drinks.

Support Local Artisans and Small Businesses

By shopping local, you're supporting local artisans and small businesses, which helps to boost the local economy and preserve the community's character.

7. Ice on the Plaza at The Galleria

Ice skate under the stunning atrium of The Galleria, where the ice rink is surrounded by beautiful Christmas decorations and twinkling lights.

A Festive Atmosphere

Ice on the Plaza offers a festive atmosphere, complete with holiday music, delicious food and drinks, and a special appearance by Santa Claus.

8. Museum of Fine Arts, Houston's Holiday Exhibitions

Experience the beauty and wonder of the holiday season through art at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston's holiday exhibitions. This year's exhibitions feature stunning works of art that explore the themes of winter, snow, and the holiday season.

Cultural and Educational

The museum's holiday exhibitions offer a cultural and educational experience that's perfect for the whole family.

9. Texas Renaissance Festival's Yuletide Celebration

Step back in time to the 16th century and experience the magic of the holiday season at the Texas Renaissance Festival's Yuletide Celebration.

Merry Makers and Entertainers

This festive event features merry makers and entertainers, including jesters, jugglers, and musicians, as well as delicious food and drinks.

10. Moody Gardens' Festival of Lights

Experience the beauty and wonder of the holiday season at Moody Gardens' Festival of Lights, where over 1 million lights and 100 festive displays create a magical atmosphere.

Family-Friendly Fun

This event features something for everyone, including an ice rink, a Ferris wheel, and a festive holiday market. Are you ready to jingle all the way into Christmas 2024 in Houston? With so many festive activities, events, and attractions to choose from, you're sure to find something that suits your holiday spirit. Whether you're a native Texan or just visiting, Houston is the perfect place to celebrate the magic of the holiday season.