The holiday season in Houston is a magical time. The city cools down, lights decorate every corner, and families are offered a variety of ways to celebrate. From fun festivals to symphony shows, there is something for everyone. Check out our roundup below for ways to make the most of the holiday season in H-town. 

Holiday Shows Around Town 

Houston Symphony
Disney’s Fantasia
Thanksgiving Weekend
Watch the beloved Disney classic while the Symphony brings the soundtrack to life.  

Home Alone
Dec. 3, 2022 
Listen to renowned composer John Williams’ score performed alongside the movie in the beautifully decorated Jones Hall. 

Very Merry POPS
Dec. 15 – 18, 2022 
Broadway’s talented N’Kenge joins the Houston Symphony and Chorus for classic yuletide carols and festive favorites. 

Houston Ballet 
Nov. 25 – Dec. 27 
The Nutcracker is must for every Houston holiday bucket list. Attending this performance is a tradition for many families and is truly the perfect holiday experience for the whole family. Behind on holiday shopping? You can also attend the Houston Ballet Nutcracker Market, which is a shopping wonderland that benefits the Houston Ballet Foundation. 

Festivals to Attend 

Dickens on the Strand
Dec. 2 – 4 
Transport back to the Victorian era while walking the streets of Galveston’s strand. This annual festival features holiday food and drinks as well as Victorian-inspired crafts and other unique shopping opportunities. 

Discovery Green Winter Celebration
 Nov. 11 – Jan. 29 
Discovery Green is known for offering Houstonians a creative, green space to have a good time year-round. It is especially magical in the wintertime when it transforms into an ice-skating rink. Opening night kicks off Nov. 11, and the first 50 skaters skate free! 

Tomball German Festival
Dec. 9 – 11 
Experience German food, dancing and music while shopping through the festival market, which has over 150 unique vendors. 

Houston’s Best Lights 

Moody Gardens Lights in Galveston
Nov. 19 – Jan 7 
The stunning lights of Moody Gardens will twinkle on again this year! As the holidays approach, Moody Gardens gets ready to host the spectacular sights and stunning displays that make up the Festival of Lights. In addition to light shows, there are several other winter activities for families and visitors, such as smores stations, train rides and arctic slides. 

Santa Wonderland
Nov. 11 – Dec. 30th
Located in College station, this is worth the drive for any Houstonian. Not only does Santa’s wonderland have spectacular lights and décor, but there are also a wide range of activities, such as tubing through the snow, hay rides pictures with Santa and more. 

Zoo lights
Nov. 18 – Jan 8 
TXU Energy Zoo lights is one of Houston’s favorite lights experiences, and for a good reason! Strings of lights, glowing flowers and animal-themed displays illuminate the zoo as visitors walk through at night. Grab a cup of hot chocolate and snap a picture with Santa for the perfect evening out. 

These are just a few ways to experience the city during the happiest time of the year. Let us know your favorite Houston holiday happening by sharing a picture on Instagram and tagging @liveworkhou. Check out more ways to explore Houston.