6 Spectacular Things to Do in Houston for Christmas

Houston is a city that boasts a thriving economy, with a diverse array of business & industry.  And while Houston may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of a holiday destination, it has a lot to offer visitors.  From world-renowned museums & art galleries, to its excellent shopping & dining options: there are far more than “6 Spectacular Things to Do in Houston for Christmas & New Year’s Eve.” And the city’s mild climate allows visitors to enjoy many of its attractions year-round.

So whether you’re looking for a fun-filled family vacation or a romantic getaway, let’s find out why Houston should be on your holiday list…

Houston offers a spectacular variety of holiday festivities to celebrate the season.

6 Spectacular Things to Do in Houston for Christmas

The holidays are here, so it’s time to start planning how you’re going to celebrate!  You’re in luck if you’re looking for festive fun in Houston, Texas.  This year, the city is pulling out all the stops to make sure everyone has a merry Christmas & exciting New Year’s Eve. 

Here are a few great things to do in Houston this holiday season…

1) Ice Skating at Discovery Green Park

One of the best things about winter is getting to go ice skating!  If you’re in Houston, you can enjoy this winter activity at Discovery Green Park ~ which is located right in the heart of downtown, by both PNC Stadium & Minute Maid Park.  Discovery Green transforms into a winter wonderland complete with an ice rink, snowfall, & festive decorations. 

Ice skating here is the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit.

Start your Christmas season by ice skating at Discovery Green Park.

2) Holiday Art Market at The Health Museum

If you’re looking for unique holiday gifts: look no further than the Holiday Art Market at The Health Museum.  This market features local artists selling their wares ~ including paintings, sculptures, jewelry, & more.  You’re sure to find something for all those special people on your list at the Holiday Art Market! 

And if you’re feeling extra creative this holiday season: enter The Health Museum’s “Gingerbread House Making Contest.”  To enter, all you need to do is bake a gingerbread house & submit a photo of it.  The contest is open to both kids & adults ~ so get creative & start baking!  The winner will receive a prize package of goodies from The Health Museum.

Visit the Holiday Art Market & pick up some unique gifts!

3) Visit Santa at The Galleria Mall

What’s more Christmas-sy than visiting Santa Claus himself?  The Galleria is one of the largest shopping malls in Texas, & it features a beautiful holiday display complete with an area for the kids to meet Santa.  You can take photos with him, tell him what you want for Christmas, & even take a selfie with him!  Admission to the Galleria is free, but there may be a fee for photos with Santa. 

Check their website for more information. 

4) See “The Nutcracker” at Miller Outdoor Theatre 

This classic holiday ballet comes to life every year at Miller Outdoor Theatre.  This year’s production runs from December 19th – 25th, 2022, & features Tchaikovsky’s iconic score performed by the Houston Symphony Orchestra. 

Best of all, admission is free!  Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis: so arrive early to get the best spot.

Bundle up & watch “The Nutcracker” outdoors with your family!

Great Things to Do in Houston for the Holidays

5) Go on a Holiday Lights Tour

What better way to get into the holiday spirit than by seeing some great holiday lights?  Several companies in Houston offer guided tours of the best displays in town.  Prices vary depending on your tour, but typically range from $25-40 per person. 

And if you’re doing a self-guided tour: head to the River Oaks neighborhood, right around River Oaks Boulevard, which is filled with colorfully-decorated mansions & homes.

Go on a Houston holiday lights tour!

6) Spend New Year’s Eve at Minute Maid Park

End the year on a high note at Minute Maid Park’s New Year’s Eve celebration!  This family-friendly event features live music, games, prizes, & more.  And, of course, there will be plenty of delicious Minute Maid Lemonade to go around.  Head downtown to Minute Maid Park on December 31st for a fun-filled evening of live music, food trucks, drinks, & more. 

This concert in Houston runs from 8PM all the way to 1AM: tickets start at $35 per person.  It’s a great way to ring in 2022 with friends & family….so bring them down & ring in the New Year at Minute Maid Park!

Ring in the New Year with concerts & festivities at Minute Maid Park…

6 Great Things to Do in Houston for Christmas

Christmas & New Year’s Eve are two of the biggest holidays in Houston, & there’s no shortage of things to do.  From attending one of the many holiday parties, to taking a tour of some of the city’s best Christmas lights: there’s something for everyone. 

What are your plans for Christmas & New Year’s Eve?  Let me know in the comments below….

xoxo Noelia

Read Next: Top 3 Holiday Markets by Stuttgart, Germany

Pin It!