56 Fun And Festive Things To Do In Houston This December
December has arrived, and with it comes the magical holiday season! Houston lights up with festive events, unique experiences, and plenty of holiday cheer. Whether you are a local or visiting from afar, there are countless enchanting activities to indulge in. From heartwarming performances to extravagant light displays, here are 56 fun and festive things to do in Houston this December!
1. Experience Candlelight Concerts
Immerse yourself in the stunning atmosphere of candlelit concerts featuring classical compositions. Enjoy enchanting arrangements of Tchaikovsky and Vivaldi while surrounded by flickering candlelight in one of Houston’s exquisite venues. This romantic setting makes for a perfect evening!
Photo credit: @posthtx
2. "A Very Sinatra Christmas Special"
Join the merry festivities by attending "A Very Sinatra Christmas Special" presented by Concerts Under the Stars at the Marriott Marquis. Enjoy a delightful performance of classics synonymous with Frank Sinatra during this joyful holiday celebration.
3. Immerse Yourself in the Wizarding World
Prepare for a magical adventure at the Harry Potter Forbidden Forest experience. Encounter fascinating creatures like Hippogriffs and Nifflers while walking through breathtaking scenes inspired by the films. Cap off your visit with warm food and the delightful ambiance of a charming village.
Harry Potter Forbidden Forest
4. Dining in the Dark
Ever wonder what itâs like to eat without your sight? The Dining in the Dark event invites guests to don blindfolds, transforming your dinner into an interactive experience that heightens your senses. Indulge in a mystery menu while savoring new flavors!
5. Outdoor Ice Rink at Discovery Green
Embrace the winter spirit at Discovery Green, where the outdoor ice rink is open for public skating. Glide around under the skyline, partake in themed nights, and enjoy Houstonâs mild December weather.
6. Winter Wonderland at Marriott Marquis
Dive into a Winter Wonderland at the Marriott Marquis! Experience a festive atmosphere featuring Christmas movie nights, twinkling lights, and even a heated lazy river, ensuring a magical evening.
7. Houston Zoo Lights
Don’t miss out on the Houston Zoo Lights, an annual spectacular light show that runs from November through early January. Stroll through the beautifully illuminated zoo while enjoying festive entertainment.
8. City Lights Downtown Holiday Magic
Experience City Lights Downtown Holiday Magic, showcasing beautiful dÃĐcor, seasonal performances, and unique holiday shopping opportunities. This festive transformation turns downtown into a dazzling winter wonderland.
9. Galaxy Lights at Space Center Houston
Step into the cosmos this December with Galaxy Lights at Space Center Houston. This technologically advanced light display will leave you starry-eyed as you explore the wonders of space adorned with captivating lights.
10. Dasherâs Light Show
Take the family for a drive to Dasherâs Light Show in Humble. Itâs a mile-long immersive light display that dazzles with extravagant decorations, ensuring a memorable outing.
11. Santaâs Wonderland in College Station
If youâre willing to journey a bit further, make your way to Santaâs Wonderland in College Station, featuring a spectacular array of lights, a gingerbread village, and holiday attractions for all ages.
12. Holiday Shopping at The Galleria
While you’re out and about, why not do a little holiday shopping? The Galleria is buzzing with festive cheer as you peruse shops adorned with twinkling lights, and enjoy ice skating right in the mall.
13. Dazzling Neighborhood Lights
Take a leisurely drive through Houstonâs neighborhoods, where homes are festively decorated with dazzling lights and displays. Grab a hot cocoa, bring your family, and enjoy this captivating experience.
14. Dickens on the Strand
Step back in time at Dickens on the Strand in Galveston. This event recreates the charm of 19th-century London with classic Victorian-themed activities, food, and entertainment running from December 1 to 3.
15. Light Park
Light Park presents two locations featuring a holiday light display thatâs sure to enchant. Head out to either Typhoon Texas Waterpark or Hurricane Harbor for a spellbinding experience.
16. Brightest Holiday Bars in Houston
Explore some of the most festive bars around town where you can unwind with specialty cocktails in a holiday-themed atmosphere. Check out delightful local spots that outshine the competition!
17. Create a Gingerbread Masterpiece
Channel your inner chef this holiday season by participating in gingerbread house-making workshops. Create a sugary masterpiece while enjoying delightful holiday treats!
18. Holiday Movie Night
Grab your blankets and enjoy a cozy evening with a holiday movie night. Many venues across the city host screenings featuring classic holiday films, perfect for a family outing or a date night.
19. Houston Ballet’s "The Nutcracker"
Experience the magic of the season with the Houston Ballet’s "The Nutcracker." This captivating performance will transport you into a world of sugar plum fairies and dreamlike adventures.
20. Festive Food Tours
Join a guided food tour that showcases Houstonâs diverse culinary landscape during the holiday season. Sample unique dishes from local restaurants while soaking in the festive atmosphere.
21. The Houston Symphony’s Holiday Concert
Don’t miss the Houston Symphony’s holiday concerts this December for an enchanting evening filled with festive music that resonates through the esteemed concert hall.
22. MoCA Houston’s Winter Wonderland
Check out MoCA Houstonâs Winter Wonderland, featuring art installations, festive markets, and holiday-themed exhibitions that celebrate the season through creativity.
23. Houston’s Highest Rooftops
What better way to celebrate the holidays than with a breathtaking view? Enjoy brunch or drinks on one of Houston’s rooftops, offering stunning views of the city sprinkled with holiday cheer.
24. Houston’s Historic Churches
Visit some of Houston’s historic churches, beautifully adorned for the holiday season. These architectural marvels offer concerts, performances, and serene holiday reflection.
25. Local Farmers Markets
Explore locally-sourced goodies at Houstonâs farmersâ markets, brimming with festive produce, handmade gifts, and exquisite baked goods. Perfect for holiday entertaining!
26. Houston Museum District Events
Cultural gems in the Museum District often host special holiday events, including themed exhibitions and activities that bring holiday cheer to art lovers of all ages.
27. Festive Craft Workshops
Unleash your creativity at local craft workshops where you can create personalized ornaments, wreaths, and holiday gifts, making it a fun experience for family and friends.
28. Coffee Shops with Holiday Specials
Cold weather calls for warm drinks. Discover cozy coffee shops throughout the city that offer seasonal drinks and treats to warm you up.
29. Pyro Texan Holiday Fireworks
Head over to see Pyro Texan’s fireworks show, which lights up the sky with spectacular seasonal fireworks, setting a joyous tone for celebrations throughout December.
30. Brewery Tours
Many local breweries host holiday-themed tours, tastings, and events featuring seasonal brews that bring a festive twist to your ‘cheers!’
31. Houston Art Car Parade
The Houston Art Car Parade showcases brilliantly decorated vehicles, combining creativity and festive fun, turning the streets into a vibrant holiday scene.
32. Houston’s Secret Speakeasies
Explore Houston’s hidden speakeasies for unique cocktails and exquisite atmospheres that evoke classic holiday charm, perfect for a night out.
33. Pop-up Markets
Pop-up holiday markets throughout the city offer unique gifts, artisan goods, and delightful seasonal foods in a vibrant, community-oriented setting.
34. Holiday Pub Crawls
Join in on a spirited holiday pub crawl, visiting local bars and enjoying festive drinks with fellow revelers across the city.
35. Volunteer Opportunities
The season of giving shines brightest when you give back. Volunteer at local shelters, food banks, or non-profits to spread holiday cheer to those in need.
36. Jazz and Holiday Music Nights
Enjoy live jazz performances at various venues in Houston, where you can listen to holiday music thatâll set the mood just right for the season.
37. Outdoor Movie Nights
Catch an outdoor movie screening of holiday classics in parks around Houston, where you can cozy up under a blanket with family or friends.
38. Pop-up Ice-Skating
Enjoy a unique experience with pop-up ice-skating rinks around town that present a magical winter oasis for families and friends to enjoy together.
39. Hunt for Holiday Lights
Participate in a neighborhood scavenger hunt dedicated to spotting the best holiday lights displays around town, creating a fun and exciting family tradition.
40. Dance the Night Away at Holiday Parties
Join the holiday festivities at various local venues hosting themed parties, providing food, drinks, and dancing to celebrate the season with merriment!
41. Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides
Hop on a charming horse-drawn carriage ride through decorated neighborhoods to soak up the holiday sights and sounds from a new perspective.
42. Holiday Caroling
Participate in or enjoy neighborhood caroling events, where groups share festive music bringing joy and holiday spirit to the community.
43. Explore Local Art Galleries
Venture to local art galleries featuring holiday-themed exhibitions and meet the artists behind the work, supporting Houston’s vibrant arts community.
44. Southwest Houston Tex-Mex Delights
Indulge in festive Tex-Mex menus at various local eateries offering specialty dishes, delicious cocktails, and holiday treats bursting with flavor.
45. Cook and Bake with Local Chefs
Engage in cooking classes hosted by local chefs that focus on holiday treats and dishes, giving you the skills to impress at family gatherings.
46. Winter Wildlife Encounters
If youâre a wildlife enthusiast, check the local zoo and nature reserves which often host special winter-themed events showcasing animals in their winter habitats.
47. Celebrate at Local Distilleries
Tour local distilleries and enjoy tastings of crafted spirits perfect for holiday celebrations, sharing unique flavors crafted right in your city.
48. Festive Themed Brunches
Savor a delightful brunch at local restaurants that offer holiday-themed menus, filled with seasonal ingredients and festive flavors.
49. Craft Beer Festivals
Explore local craft beer festivals celebrating seasonal brews embraced by Houston’s vibrant brewing community, perfect for beer lovers.
50. Enjoy Festive Storytelling
Attend seasonal storytelling events at libraries or community centers where tales of Christmas cheer come alive through engaging narrators.
51. Houston’s Cultural Festivals
Partake in cultural festivals celebrating regional traditions and diverse communities, typically featuring food, crafts, and seasonal performances.
52. Poetry and Literature Events
Visit local venues hosting poetry readings or book clubs with a holiday theme, providing a cozy atmosphere to enjoy literature among fellow enthusiasts.
53. Family-Friendly Events at Local Parks
Many local parks offer family-friendly events, including holiday fairs and community markets, where families can create lasting memories together.
54. DIY Holiday Decor Workshops
Join community workshops crafting your holiday decorations, ranging from homemade ornaments to wreath-making, enhancing your festive spirit.
55. Candle-Making Experiences
Feel the warmth of the season with hands-on candle-making workshops, allowing you to create personalized candles infused with delightful scents.
56. Explore Historic Houston
Take a walking tour through historic neighborhoods beautifully decorated for the holidays while learning about Houston’s rich cultural history.
This holiday season, Houston bursts with joy and excitement! Thereâs no shortage of festive activities and experiences to embrace. From concerts and theater performances to stunning light displays and culinary delights, December in Houston is truly magical.