Best Houston Christmas Events and Activities 2024
Houston offers a vibrant array of Christmas events to celebrate the holiday season. From dazzling light displays to festive performances, there's something for everyone. Here's a curated list of activities to consider:
Beyoncé’s Christmas Day Halftime Performance
Experience an unforgettable halftime show featuring Beyoncé during the Houston Texans vs. Baltimore Ravens NFL game. Enjoy live renditions of songs from her "Cowboy Carter" album, along with holiday classics. The performance will also be streamed live on Netflix.
Location: NRG Stadium, 1 NRG Pkwy, Houston, TX 77054
Date: December 25, 2024
Admission: Click here to get your ticket – Tickets start at $196 before fees.
Zoo Lights at the Houston Zoo
The Houston Zoo transforms into a winter wonderland with millions of twinkling lights, animal-themed lanterns, and festive decorations. Visitors can enjoy the Holiday Grove, Enchanted Forest, and photos with Santa through December 23.
Location: Houston Zoo, 6200 Hermann Park Dr, Houston, TX 77030
Dates: November 22, 2024 – January 5, 2025
Admission: Click here to get your ticket – Tickets start at $25.95 for non-members; $12.95 for members.
Magical Winter Lights
This festival features over 60 lantern displays across various themed sections, including The Kingdom, The Village, and Dinosaur Kingdom. Attendees can also enjoy carnival rides, games, and live performances.
Location: Fort Bend County Fairgrounds, 4310 TX-36, Rosenberg, TX 77471
Dates: November 15, 2024 – January 5, 2025
Admission: Click here to get your ticket – General admission starts at $25 for adults; $17 for children.
A Christmas Carol at Alley Theatre
Enjoy the classic tale of A Christmas Carol with rich Victorian costumes, magical elements, and beautifully sung holiday carols. This production is a beloved Houston tradition.
Location: Alley Theatre, 615 Texas Ave, Houston, TX 77002
Dates: November 15 – December 29, 2024
Admission: Click here to get your ticket – Tickets start at $41.
City Lights Downtown Holiday Magic
Presented by Shell Energy, this event transforms downtown Houston into a festive wonderland with spectacular lights, music, and magical fun. Enjoy holiday markets, live performances, and family-friendly activities. Learn more here.
Location: Downtown Houston, Houston, TX
Dates: November 22, 2024 – January 2, 2025
Admission: Free to attend; activity prices vary.
Coca-Cola’s Classic Christmas
Hosted at Memorial City Mall, this event features 55,000 square feet of festivities, including a Christmas market, ice skating, snow tubing, holiday eats, drinks, and more.
Location: Memorial City Mall, 303 Memorial City Way, Houston, TX 77024
Dates: November 22 – December 29, 2024
Admission: Click here to get your ticket – Tickets start at $27.99.
Christmas Village at Bayou Bend
Explore the historic Bayou Bend estate adorned with festive decorations. Enjoy a "snow" slide, cotton snowball fights, and holiday treats in a beautifully lit garden setting.
Location: Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens, 6003 Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77007
Dates: December 6 – December 30, 2024
Admission: Click here to get your ticket – General admission starts at $15; free for children under 5.
The Nutcracker by Houston Ballet
Experience the timeless ballet performance of The Nutcracker, featuring stunning choreography and enchanting music, a staple of Houston's holiday season.
Location: Wortham Theater Center, 501 Texas Ave, Houston, TX 77002
Dates: November 29 – December 29, 2024
Admission: Click here to get your ticket – Tickets start at $35.
Galaxy Lights at Space Center Houston
Experience a technologically advanced light display featuring interactive exhibits and immersive installations. Highlights include a glowing LED tunnel, a simulated journey through the stars, and festive activities for all ages.
Location: Space Center Houston, 1601 E NASA Pkwy, Houston, TX 77058
Dates: November 16, 2024 – January 5, 2025
Admission: Click here to get your ticket – Tickets start at $24.95 for adults; $19.95 for children (ages 4–11)
Tomball German Fest Christmas Market
Immerse yourself in festive German traditions with authentic cuisine, live music, and over 200 street vendors offering holiday crafts and gifts. The event also features carnival rides and a family-friendly atmosphere. Learn more here.
Location: Old Town Tomball, 201 S Elm St, Tomball, TX 77375
Dates: December 13 – December 15, 2024
Admission: Free admission; parking fees may apply.
Disclosure: This list is intended as an informational resource and is based on independent research and publicly available information. It does not imply that these businesses are the absolute best in their category. Learn more here.
