Loading the Elevenlabs Text to Speech AudioNative Player…
If you’re in Houston over Christmas week, there’s no shortage of festive fun. From dazzling light displays to classic holiday shows, this guide, originally curated by Houston on the Cheap, has everything you need to plan an unforgettable holiday week.
Whether you’re hosting family, entertaining kids, or squeezing in some festive fun before New Year’s, here’s what’s still worth putting on your calendar.
Neighborhood Christmas Lights (Free & Flexible)
Perfect for a relaxed evening drive or stroll.
- River Oaks Christmas Lights
One of Houston’s most iconic holiday traditions. Enjoy grand homes, elegant décor, and stunning light displays throughout the neighborhood.
Through late December | River Oaks | Free - Prestonwood Forest Nite of Lites
Entire streets participate with synchronized lights and themed decorations, making this one of the city’s most impressive neighborhood displays.
Through December 31 | Prestonwood Forest | Free - Pecan Grove Christmas Lights
A favorite for families, where residents compete for the most festive homes. Easy to explore by car.
Through December | Pecan Grove | Free
Walk-Through & Drive-Through Holiday Light Experiences
- H-Town Holiday Lights at Discovery Green
A ticketed walk-through experience with lights synchronized to Houston-inspired music in a downtown setting.
Through January 4 | Discovery Green | Ticketed - POST Winter Wonderlawn
Rooftop holiday installation featuring massive Christmas trees, themed décor, skyline views, and seasonal food vendors.
Through January 11 | POST Houston | Ticketed - The Light Park
Drive-through show with millions of synchronized LED lights set to music you tune into through your car radio.
Through January 4 | Sam Houston Race Park | Ticketed - Galaxy Lights at Space Center Houston
Space-themed holiday light experience with interactive installations and photo opportunities.
Through January 4 | Space Center Houston | Ticketed - Radiant Nature at Houston Botanic Garden
Lantern-lit nature walk highlighting gardens with glowing installations.
Through February 22 | Houston Botanic Garden | Ticketed - TXU Energy Presents Zoo Lights
Immersive light tunnels and themed zones at Houston Zoo.
Through January 4 | Houston Zoo | Ticketed - Astros Light Up the Park
Walk through Daikin Park with Astros-themed holiday displays, Santa visits, and festive food.
Through January 4 | Daikin Park | Ticketed - Christmas Village at Bayou Bend
Live actors, carolers, Santa visits, gingerbread art, model trains, and festive food.
Through December 30 | Bayou Bend | Ticketed
Holiday Shows & Performances Still Running
- A Christmas Carol
Classic holiday production at one of Houston’s premier theaters.
Through December 28 | Alley Theatre | Ticketed - Houston Ballet’s The Nutcracker
Timeless ballet with stunning choreography, sets, and costumes.
Through December 28 | Houston Ballet | Ticketed - It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play
1940s-style radio broadcast with live sound effects and vintage charm.
Through December 28 | Ticketed - The Night Shift Before Christmas
Modern, humorous holiday story with heart.
Through December 28 | Ticketed - Cirque Dreams Holidaze
High-energy circus performance with music and holiday spectacle.
December 23–24 | Ticketed - Cruel Intentions: The ’90s Musical
Not holiday-themed, but nostalgic and full of music.
Begins December 26 | Ticketed - Shen Yun
Visually stunning performance blending classical Chinese dance, music, and storytelling.
December 26–30 | Ticketed
Family-Friendly Experiences
- Ice Village at Rice Village
Ice skating paired with shopping and dining.
Through January 4 | Rice Village | Ticketed - Sugar Land Holiday Lights
Lights, carnival rides, mini golf, and skating.
Through January 4 | Sugar Land | Ticketed - Dewberry Farm: A Berry Merry Christmas
Country-style Christmas with rides, lights, and holiday activities.
Through December 28 | Dewberry Farm | Ticketed - Skating with the Stars at Discovery Green
Live figure skating performances with festive music.
Through December 30 | Discovery Green | Free
To get the most out of your week, consider planning ahead:
- Visit neighborhood lights after 7 pm for the best experience.
- Book tickets early for popular shows and drive-through light displays.
- Downtown events like Discovery Green, Alley Theatre, and POST Houston are within walking distance, making it easy to see multiple attractions in one evening.
With a little planning, your Houston holiday week can be magical, memorable, and full of festive cheer.
