The 2024 holiday season has arrived, bringing an incredible array of holiday events in Houston that the whole family can enjoy. From cherished traditions to new festivities, Houston’s holiday events calendar is packed with Christmas cheer! Whether you’re seeking classic Houston holiday events like the Houston Ballet’s The Nutcracker or exploring neighborhood light displays, there’s something magical waiting around every corner. Local vendor markets add to the festive atmosphere, offering perfect gift-hunting opportunities.
Let’s explore the most anticipated holiday events in Houston for December 2024!
Continue a cherished Houston holiday tradition this season by experiencing the magic of the performing arts. Treat yourself and your loved ones to two spectacular shows guaranteed to spark that holiday spirit – The Nutcracker and A Christmas Carol.
Now in its 29th season, Houston Ballet’s The Nutcracker has become a must-see event under the creative direction of Stanton Welch. Journey with young Clara to the whimsical Land of Snow and into the Kingdom of Sweets, showcasing intricate dances from around the world. With hundreds of performers, stunning costumes and sets, and festive details everywhere you look, this breathtaking production creates memories that will last a lifetime.
The holiday magic continues over at the Alley Theatre with their production of the Charles Dickens classic, A Christmas Carol. This 90-minute show brings the story’s crisp dialogue and subtle songs to life on stage. Through creative set transitions, get whisked away into the timeless tale of Ebenezer Scrooge’s overnight redemption.
With shows throughout late November and December, you’ll have plenty of chances to take in these acclaimed shows during the 2024 holiday season.
The Markets for Makers Holiday Market is back at POST Houston on December 14-15, 2024, after a popular Fall Market in November. Shop from over 100 local artisans and small businesses, complete with DIY stations, fun photo walls, and delicious food and drinks while filling your free tote bag with unique finds. Admission is free for kids under 12.
Kick off the holiday season by soaking in Christmas magic downtown, with Houston’s 105-year tradition of lighting the Christmas tree. The Reliant Lights Mayor’s Holiday Spectacular in Hermann Square boasts a 50+ foot tree glistening with nearly 100,000 lights!
Then make your way to the iconic Continental Club, just a short METRORail ride away, for Disco Expressions’ holiday show. Hailed as Texas’ most authentic disco experience, Disco Expressions will wow you with nonstop ’70s hits, shimmering lights, and tons of retro flair. Their high-energy show promises to have you dancing like it’s 1979. Tickets start at just $15 in advance for this holiday tradition—it’s sure to sell out fast so secure your spot early and come prepared to boogie!
Continue the seasonal fun that weekend by wandering Midtown’s cherished Mistletoe Market in Baldwin Park December 14 and 15. Nestled under gorgeous oak trees, this longstanding Houston tradition showcases unique gifts and home goods from local makers and crafters. Enjoy twinkling lights strung overhead as you stroll from booth to booth, soaking in the sounds of carolers and the smell of tasty treats like hot chocolate and freshly baked cookies.
The best part? Lodgeur at Mid Main Lofts furnished apartments are located right in Midtown, just a short walk from both the Mistletoe Market and the iconic Continental Club. Stay in the heart of Houston’s holiday action – our prime location allows you to easily access these and other festive happenings all season long!
Downtown Houston is set aglow with holiday cheer during the City Lights Downtown Holiday Magic event, presented by Shell Energy, running now through Dec. 31, 2024. This expansive event features live music, craft making, and entertainment across 11 themed holiday villages spread throughout Downtown and Midtown Houston.
Highlights of this festive transformation include:
For more details on times, parking, prices, and related activities, click here.
Radiant Nature is a magical Chinese lantern festival coming to the Houston Botanic Garden from November 18, 2024 through February 23, 2025. This temporary exhibit features over 50 illuminated sculptural displays spreading holiday cheer. Walk through gorgeous lanterns representing flowers, animals, and landscapes as you explore themes of the four seasons. With interactive elements like an LED tunnel and kaleidoscope, this event makes for a special family outing or date night that will get you into the holiday spirit. Time your visit right to enjoy both the winter holidays and Lunar New Year celebrations. Don’t miss out on Radiant Nature’s vibrant photo ops and dazzling take on the gardens and Asian culture.
Buffalo Bayou Partnership has organized Tinsel Trek, a free holiday-themed wellness walk on December 11 and 18, 2024. Led by Urban Paths founder Laura Conely, this 3-mile, 1.5-hour stroll through Buffalo Bayou Park showcases downtown Houston’s festive lights. The trek departs at 6:30 PM from 105 Sabine Street.
Experience the magic of Snow Glow on the Bayou, a lavish digital light and sound spectacle taking place at Allen’s Landing from December 20 to December 29, 2024, where vibrant projections illuminate the historic site along Buffalo Bayou. This immersive event, viewable from various vantage points or on a festive holiday boat cruise, invites families to enjoy a winter wonderland filled with holiday cheer each evening from 6 PM to 10 PM.
Cistern Illuminated is an immersive light and sound installation at the Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern, running from December 6, 2024 through January 26, 2025. This year’s exhibit features new interactive elements and a unique soundscape that enhances the visual experience of the Cistern’s stunning architecture, including its 221 columns and reflective water surface. On select dates, live choral performances will further enrich this captivating winter event, showcasing the Cistern’s extraordinary acoustics. Note: The event does not run daily, so check the website and order tickets in advance.
And don’t overlook the Houston Zoo, which transforms every evening from Nov. 17 through Jan. 7 into a glittering seasonal attraction that has become a can’t-miss holiday tradition for so many families! Check out animal-shaped lanterns and an illuminated tunnel as you stroll through the zoo grounds. In addition to the spectacular light displays, enjoy holiday train rides, cookie decorating, simulated snow flurries, seasonal treats like hot cocoa, and more! Due to popularity, tickets often sell out fast, so order yours ahead of time!
And let’s not forget December 31st – Houston’s 2024 grand finale! For families eager to ring in the new year without staying up until midnight, City Centre’s beloved Noon Year’s Eve celebration transforms the Plaza into a daytime festival from 10 AM to 1 PM. Little ones can dance to DJ beats, marvel at the Texas Bubblers’ performances, and enjoy face painting and balloon artists before the exciting bubble-filled countdown at noon.
Sports enthusiasts can transition their afternoon celebrations to NRG Stadium, where the Texas Bowl kicks off at 2:30 PM, providing an exciting dose of college football action to bridge the gap between day and night festivities. As evening approaches, The Warwick opens its doors for a sophisticated New Year’s celebration, complete with a red carpet entrance that makes everyone feel like a VIP. Their innovative staggered 2-hour dinner seatings, featuring a meticulously crafted 3-course prix-fixe menu with optional drink pairings, ensure that groups with varying schedules can all participate in the glamour.
For those seeking a more adventurous evening, the Houston NYE Bar Crawl is from 6 PM to 2 AM, with Leon’s Lounge serving as the starting point for an exciting journey through some of Houston’s finest establishments. Participating venues including The Dogwood, Playground HTX, Holman Draft House, and Wooster’s Garden offer specially priced drinks under $10, making this a budget-friendly way to experience multiple Houston hotspots in one festive night.
So gather your friends, family, or fellow revelers, and make your plans to be part of these memorable celebrations that will set the tone for an exciting and promising 2025. Just remember to secure your tickets early – in a city that knows how to throw a party, these events are sure to sell out fast.
