As a vibrant city, Houston provides plenty of holiday festivities for young and old. Some are traditional activities that make the holidays such a festive season. Others are unique and local to Houston like gingerbread house contests and alternative ways to celebrate the upcoming new year.
Lights
Go to the Gulf Greyhound Park to see the Magical Winter Lights from mid-November to January 6. The admission. This year’s lantern festival will be the largest in the world with eight separately themed sections.
You can also enjoy the adjacent Holiday Market Square where you’ll find authentic arts and crafts, a festival food court, and photo ops with the Ice Sisters and Santa Claus. There will also be nightly entertainment including dinosaur exhibits and acrobats. This festival is open on Christmas Eve and Day, along with the New Year’s holiday, which will give you something local to do on these festive holidays.
Zoo Lights at the Houston Zoo takes you through 15 miles and two million lights from mid-November through mid-January. You won’t see the animals who will be in their overnight nesting areas, but you will see a 33-foot Christmas tree, Santa Claus and strolling carolers. Take in some hot chocolate and don’t forget to bring your camera.
Live Theater
The Nutcracker Ballet runs through late November through December 29 at the Wortham Theater Center. Performed by the Houston Ballet, this year’s will be the first performance of this classic since the theater was damaged by Hurricane Harvey.
Another event that lasts throughout the holiday season is Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol that runs from mid-November to the end of December at the Alley Theatre. Take advantage of student, military and senior discounts to enjoy this Christmas classic as a matinee or evening performance.
Something Different
Gingerbread houses are synonymous with the holidays and you can get into the act by competing in the local 10th Annual Gingerbread Build-Off at Hermann Square at City Hall on December 8. You can form a team to make your masterpiece in any style you like as long as everything is edible. There will be a children’s section and Santa is sure to make an appearance.
While holiday celebrations culminate on New Year’s Eve, some people don’t stay up to see the new year in. If you’re one of them, consider heading to the City Centre’s Noon Year’s Eve party that starts at 11 AM on the 31st and lasts through 1 PM. You’ll find face painting, balloon artists and a photo booth, along with the bubbly.
Whatever your interests may be, Alair Homes Houston invites you to participate in the local holiday activities. With events throughout the month of December, Houston is a city bustling with cheery holiday spirit.