As 2025 approaches, Houston’s calendar is packed with exciting events and activities. From New Year’s Day events in Houston to family-friendly festivities throughout the month, here’s your guide to all the Houston events in January 2025.
Ring in 2025 with these spectacular New Year’s Day events Houston has planned! Whether you’re looking for family celebrations or sophisticated soirées, Houston offers something for everyone as we welcome the new year.
City Centre has mastered the art of family-friendly festivities with their annual Noon Year’s Eve Celebration – perfect for parents who want to celebrate with their little ones and still maintain those all-important bedtime schedules. From 10 AM to 1 PM, City Centre Plaza transforms into a magical playground where kids dance to DJ beats, marvel at the Texas Bubblers’ bubble artistry, get creative with face painting and balloon art, all leading up to an exciting bubble-filled countdown at noon.
After the daytime celebrations, Houston’s energy shifts into high gear! Football fans gather at NRG Stadium for the Texas Bowl’s 2:30 PM kickoff, while others prepare for an evening of elegance or adventure. At The Warwick, one of Houston’s most sophisticated New Year’s celebrations unfolds as guests make their grand entrance on the red carpet. The evening flows through carefully orchestrated two-hour dinner seatings, featuring a masterfully crafted three-course prix-fixe menu at $125 per person, complemented by expert cocktail pairings. Seating is limited for this exclusive experience, so be sure to secure your spot here!
For those craving a more dynamic countdown to midnight, the Houston NYE Bar Crawl offers a passport to the city’s most vibrant venues for just $15 per person. Starting at 6 PM from the historic Leon’s Lounge, party-goers embark on an unforgettable tour of Houston’s finest establishments. The journey weaves through the southern charm of The Dogwood, the electric energy of Playground HTX, the craft beer paradise of Holman Draft Hall, and the mixology haven of Wooster’s Garden. With specialty drinks under $10 at each stop, you can experience the full spectrum of Houston’s celebrated nightlife without breaking the bank!
After ringing in the New Year, kick off 2025 surrounded by over 50 magnificent glowing lantern sculptures at the Botanic Garden’s Radiant Nature event. Marvel at a towering 200-foot glittering dragon, vibrant peacock displays, and more during select nights until February.
Treat your taste buds at the Houston Chocolate, Wine & Whiskey Festival on January 11 at POST Houston. Among the top things to do in Houston in January for foodies, immerse yourself in a world of flavors with unlimited tastings of artisanal chocolates, fine wines, and craft spirits from 11:30 AM to 9 PM! Local chocolatiers showcase their finest creations alongside international favorites, while mixologists demonstrate their skills with premium whiskeys. Though primarily geared toward adults, the festival offers plenty of family-friendly sweet treats and savory options, making it an ideal outing for those with older children or teens.
Cheer on thousands of marathon runners as they test endurance racing through downtown streets at the Houston Marathon on January 18 and 19. Learn more about where to stay for the Chevron Houston Marathon or the Aramco Half Marathon.
The 2025 Mix-MATCH Festival at MATCH on Saturday, January 18, 2025, will showcase 24 diverse Houston arts organizations across theater, dance, music, performance art, film, and visual art, with performances scheduled at 3:15 PM, 4:45 PM, 6:30 PM, and 8 PM. An all-access pass with two drink tickets costs $40; individual performance tickets are $15. Then check out the free Family Fun Day at MATCH Theater on January 19, from 1-5pm, next door to Lodgeur at Mid Main Lofts. The 8th Annual Family Fun Day includes live performances, bounce houses, stilt walkers and face painters.
Honor Dr. King’s legacy at the MLK Grande Parade on January 20 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM in Midtown Houston. This free event celebrates unity through diversity with a spectacular showcase of culturally diverse performance groups from across the nation. The parade route along San Jacinto Street & Elgin Street comes alive with vibrant floats, marching bands, dance ensembles, and community groups, all embodying Dr. King’s dream of harmony and inclusion. Can’t make it in person? Catch the live broadcast on Houston’s CW 39.
Not quite ready for a full marathon? The Hot Chocolate Run on January 25 offers a sweet alternative for runners of all levels. Choose your challenge – 5K, 10K, or 15K – along the scenic Allen Parkway route. The real reward comes at the finish line in Sam Houston Park, where participants celebrate their achievement with gourmet hot chocolate and other chocolate-themed treats. It’s the perfect way to keep those fitness resolutions while indulging your sweet tooth.
Wrap up the month by exploring the 2025 Houston Auto Show and Boat Show from January 29-February 2 at NRG Center! Your single ticket grants access to the year’s hottest vehicles AND boats, plus outdoor tech and gear. Over 200 vendors flaunt the latest boats, RV models and accessories with special show pricing and demos. Peruse your favorite brands and learn fishing tips too. Learn more about where to stay and park for the Houston AutoBOATive Show.
Planning ahead? Check out February’s events and celebrations.
