Houston lights up with spectacular Christmas displays throughout the city and Greater Houston area. From Houston Zoo Lights featuring millions of twinkling lights and animal exhibits to The Light Park drive-through experiences at Sam Houston Race Park and Typhoon Texas, the region offers dazzling holiday attractions. Explore free outdoor displays and ticketed light shows perfect for families across the Houston metroplex.
Last Updated: December 2, 2025
Galaxy Lights
Location: Houston
Dates: November 15, 2025 to January 4, 2026
Cost: $$
Galaxy Lights at Space Center Houston features a spectacular space-themed holiday light show, presented by Wellby Financial. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits and demonstrations that delve into the science of light, along with special themed nights including Low Sensory Nights and an overnight camp experience.
Highlights:
- A spectacular space-themed holiday light show presented by Wellby Financial.
- Interactive exhibits and demonstrations exploring the science of light.
- Special themed nights including Low Sensory Nights and an overnight camp experience.
Hometown Christmas Festival
Location: Pearland
Dates: December 5, 2025 - December 6, 2025
Cost: FREE
Join Pearland's beloved holiday celebration as the community gathers at Independence Park for an evening brimming with festive cheer and modern holiday magic. This family-friendly festival combines traditional Christmas entertainment with innovative attractions, featuring live stage performances, interactive winter activities, and a breathtaking synchronized drone light show that transforms the night sky into a glittering spectacle of holiday wonder.
Highlights:
- Kick off the holiday season with Pearland's annual Hometown Christmas Festival.
- Experience a magical evening with Santa Claus and city leaders for a tree lighting ceremony.
- Enjoy a spectacular drone show illuminating the night sky.
Sugar Land Christmas Tree Lighting
Location: Sugar Land
Dates: Friday, December 5, 2025, 5 - 8 p.m.
Cost: FREE
Join Sugar Land's cherished annual Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony on December 5th, where the community gathers to celebrate the holiday season with live entertainment, festive activities, and the spectacular illumination of the town square's centerpiece tree. This family-friendly evening transforms Sugar Land Town Square into a winter wonderland, complete with seasonal refreshments, interactive experiences, and performances from local artists that capture the magic and warmth of the holidays.
Highlights:
- Experience the annual Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony, a beloved community tradition.
- Gather with the community for an evening of holiday cheer and seasonal festivities.
- Enjoy a festive evening with family and friends celebrating the holiday season.
Dickinson Festival of Lights
Location: Dickinson
Dates: Nightly from November 29th through December 30th, 2025, 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM. Closed December 24th & 25th.
Cost: FREE
Step into a enchanting winter wonderland at this beloved 28-year-old holiday tradition in Dickinson. The Festival of Lights transforms Paul Hopkins Park into a mesmerizing landscape of thousands of twinkling displays, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for families seeking festive cheer. Best of all, this community-driven celebration offers completely free admission, parking, and shuttle service, making it an accessible holiday experience for everyone.
Highlights:
- Experience a dazzling walk-through light display with thousands of lights.
- Enjoy free admission, free parking, and a free shuttle service.
- Capture memorable photos with Santa Claus.
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Lighting of the Doves Festival
Location: The Woodlands
Dates: Details will be posted at a later date. Check back.
The Lighting of the Doves Festival at The Woodlands Waterway marks the start of the holiday season with the ceremonial illumination of giant doves symbolizing peace. The event includes a variety of performances, snow play areas, and a special appearance by Santa Claus, culminating in a fireworks finale.
Highlights:
- The iconic Lighting of the Doves ceremony, a long-standing tradition marking the start of the holiday season.
- A festive atmosphere with diverse performances, snow play, and family-friendly activities.
- A special appearance by Santa Claus arriving via sleigh, followed by a fireworks finale.
The Woodlands Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony
Location: The Woodlands
Dates: November 20, 2025
Cost: FREE
Celebrate the start of the holiday season at The Woodlands Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, where a towering 70-foot Christmas tree bursts to life with a dazzling display of synchronized lights and festive music. This captivating event transforms Market Street into a vibrant holiday spectacle, drawing crowds to experience the magic of the season in a lively outdoor setting.
Address: 9595 Six Pines Drive, The Woodlands, TX 77380
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- The grand illumination of a massive 70-foot Christmas tree.
- A synchronized light show set to festive holiday music.
- Witness the spectacular unveiling of a 70-foot Christmas tree adorned with over 25,000 synchronized, multi-colored lights.
Sugar Land Holiday Lights
Location: Sugar Land
Dates: November 21, 2025 - January 4, 2026
Cost: $$
Experience the enchanting Sugar Land Holiday Lights at Constellation Field, where over 3.5 million vibrant lights transform the venue into a dazzling winter wonderland. Central to the celebration is a majestic 40-foot illuminated Christmas tree that captivates visitors nightly. Explore festive pathways lined with themed light displays, enjoy a lively holiday village filled with unique vendors and seasonal treats, and partake in new interactive attractions that bring holiday magic to life.
Highlights:
- Millions of twinkling lights creating a magical holiday atmosphere.
- A festive village with holiday vendors and food options.
- A towering, illuminated Christmas tree as a central attraction.
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The Light Park - Houston
Location: Katy
Dates: 2025 Dates TBA
Cost: $$
Experience the magic of the holiday season at The Light Park in Katy, Houston, where millions of vibrant LED lights dance in perfect harmony with festive tunes. This immersive drive-through spectacle offers a unique blend of dazzling light tunnels and synchronized music, creating a captivating holiday journey from the comfort of your car. Each visit promises a fresh and enchanting display, making it a must-see festive tradition in Texas.
Address: 555 Katy Fort Bend Rd, Parking Lot, Katy, TX 77494
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Millions of dazzling lights synced to holiday music.
- Multiple drive-through locations across Texas, each with a unique twist.
- Drive through millions of dazzling lights synchronized to festive music.
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Johnsons' Christmas Corner
Location: Houston
Dates: Typically from the Saturday after Thanksgiving through New Year's Day.
Cost: $
Step into a winter wonderland created by the Johnson family's spectacular animated light display, where thousands of twinkling bulbs dance in perfect synchronization with holiday music. This cherished Cypress tradition transforms a residential property into an immersive seasonal experience, complete with dynamic visual effects and festive entertainment that draws visitors from across the Houston area. The family's dedication to creating holiday magic while supporting meaningful charitable causes makes this a heartwarming destination for anyone seeking authentic Christmas spirit.
Address: 1617 Dolly Wright St, Houston, TX 77088
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Experience a dazzling, animated Christmas light display synchronized to music, a beloved tradition in Cypress.
- Enjoy a festive atmosphere created by the Johnson family's passion for holiday decorations, a highlight of the season.
- Support the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation through donations, a cause close to the family's heart.
The Christmas Train
Location: Alvin
Dates: 2025 dates release September 1st. Weekends 6:00 – 10:00 p.m. | Weekdays 6:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Cost: $$
Step into a festive wonderland aboard a charming vintage train as it winds through a dazzling display of over 300,000 holiday lights and intricate decorations. This immersive experience combines the nostalgia of an old-fashioned train ride with lively seasonal entertainment, including thrilling go-kart races and a whimsical elf performance. Guests can savor classic holiday treats while creating unforgettable memories in a beautifully illuminated setting.
Highlights:
- An old-fashioned train ride through a spectacular light display.
- A variety of festive attractions including go-karts and an elf show.
- On-site concessions offering pizza, hot cocoa, and other holiday treats.
Jingle on the Boardwalk
Location: Kemah
Dates: Weekends in December
Cost: $$
Jingle on the Boardwalk takes place at Kemah Boardwalk and features a visit from Santa Claus alongside festive music and children's crafts. Visitors can enjoy a Christmas movie night every Friday throughout December and witness the annual 64th Christmas Boat Parade, showcasing hundreds of decorated boats gliding along the water. The event includes a toy drive to spread holiday cheer and offers a variety of engaging activities for families.
Address: 215 Kipp Ave, Kemah, TX 77565
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Welcome the holiday season with Santa Claus, festive music, and engaging children's crafts.
- Experience a magical Christmas movie night every Friday in December.
- Be captivated by the annual Christmas Boat Parade, a beloved local tradition.
Texas Winter Lights
Location: Downtown Houston
Dates: November 17 – December 31, 2025
Step into a Western-inspired holiday celebration atop downtown Houston's iconic Marriott Marquis, where a quarter-million twinkling lights illuminate the Altitude Rooftop in a festive fusion of Texas charm and Christmas magic. This seasonal destination combines interactive photo opportunities at the glowing Texas-shaped lazy river, live country performances, and nightly artificial snowfall to create an immersive rooftop experience. Guests can indulge in regional cuisine and craft cocktails while enjoying Santa meet-and-greets, holiday film screenings, and cozy igloo seating throughout the six-week celebration.
Address: 1777 Walker St, Houston, TX 77010
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Texas-shaped lazy river illuminated by vibrant lights
- Nightly snowfall and live country music
- Private igloo and cabin rentals for groups
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Radiant Nature at Houston Botanic Garden
Location: Houston
Dates: November 14, 2025 - February 22, 2026
Cost: $$
Radiant Nature at Houston Botanic Garden transforms the winter landscape into a luminous wonderland with breathtaking lantern artistry and interactive light displays. Visitors stroll through immersive installations inspired by nature, culture, and the holiday spirit, including towering sculptures, glowing gardens, and playful photo opportunities. The event blends traditional Chinese lantern craftsmanship with modern interactive elements, creating a magical experience for all ages after sunset.
Highlights:
- Larger-than-life lantern installations
- Immersive light experiences in gardens
- Artistic celebration of nature and holiday
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Galaxy Lights at Space Center Houston
Location: Houston
Dates: November 15, 2025 - January 4, 2026
Cost: $$
Galaxy Lights at Space Center Houston transforms the NASA Johnson Space Center into a dazzling cosmic wonderland each holiday season, blending festive cheer with Houston’s pioneering spirit in space exploration. Guests journey through immersive light installations, from a 200-foot LED tunnel to a towering 30-foot Space Launch System rocket, all set beneath the historic 747 aircraft. The event features synchronized light shows, Apollo-themed lanterns, and cozy fire pits where families can enjoy s’mores and hot cocoa, making it a truly out-of-this-world holiday tradition.
Highlights:
- Space-themed holiday lights
- Cosmic decorations and displays
- NASA legacy meets holiday celebration
Sugar Land Holiday Lights at Constellation Field
Location: Sugar Land
Dates: November 21, 2025 - January 4, 2026
Cost: $$
Transform Constellation Field into your winter wonderland at this 12th annual celebration featuring 3.5 million twinkling lights arranged across 10 themed areas. Beyond the dazzling light displays, visitors can enjoy a nine-hole mini golf course, navigate an illuminated maze, meet Santa Claus, and experience live entertainment throughout the evening. The event combines classic holiday charm with modern attractions like a synthetic ice rink and carnival rides, creating an immersive seasonal destination for the entire family.
Address: 1 Stadium Drive, Sugar Land, TX 77498
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Over 3 million lights and themed displays
- Santa visits, mini golf, carnival, ice rink
- New Year's Eve Ball with fireworks
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The Light Park - Katy
Location: Katy
Dates: November 1, 2025 - January 5, 2026
Cost: $$
The Light Park in Katy delivers a mesmerizing mile-long drive-through holiday light spectacle, featuring millions of synchronized LED lights choreographed to festive tunes spun by DJ Polar Ice. This immersive experience invites guests to enjoy vibrant themed tunnels and dazzling displays from the comfort and warmth of their vehicles, making it a perfect blend of safety and seasonal magic. Visitors can enhance their visit with festive snacks and exclusive light-up accessories, creating unforgettable holiday memories.
Address: Katy, TX
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Drive-through light experience
- Synchronized displays and festive scenes
- Comfortable viewing from vehicle
The Light Park - Spring
Location: Spring
Dates: November 1, 2025 - January 5, 2026
Cost: $$
Experience a mile-long automotive journey through a winter wonderland at The Light Park's Spring location, where millions of LED lights dance in perfect synchronization with festive holiday music broadcast directly to your vehicle. This innovative drive-thru attraction combines the comfort of your car with immersive light displays, themed tunnels, and synchronized light shows that transform the northern Houston landscape into a glowing celebration. Perfect for families seeking holiday magic without the hassle of parking and walking, this venue delivers entertainment for all ages while you cruise at a leisurely pace through the enchanted route.
Address: Spring, TX
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Drive-through synchronized light show
- Millions of lights set to music
- Northern Houston area location
Magical Winter Lights
Location: Houston
Dates: November 2025 - January 2026 (dates TBA)
Cost: $$
Magical Winter Lights transforms Houston’s Fort Bend County Fairgrounds into a dazzling 20-acre holiday wonderland featuring over 60 giant lantern displays inspired by Chinese artistry and festive themes. Visitors can immerse themselves in vibrant light sculptures, interactive exhibits like the Space Maze and Dino Land, and enjoy live acrobatic shows alongside a lively carnival and petting zoo. This unique blend of cultural tradition and Texas-sized holiday cheer creates an unforgettable seasonal experience for all ages.
Address: 4310 Highway 36 South, Rosenberg, TX 77471
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Spectacular lantern festival
- Giant themed displays and millions of lights
- Carnival rides and entertainment
Lights in the Heights
Location: Houston
Dates: December 10, 2025, 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM (displays up all December)
Cost: FREE
Lights in the Heights is an annual holiday celebration transforming the historic Woodland Heights neighborhood into a luminous winter destination. Residents compete to create spectacular outdoor light displays, with homeowners showcasing creative decorations throughout December. The event features an interactive zone with illuminated swings, photo opportunities, and Instagram-worthy installations, making it a dynamic experience beyond traditional light viewing. Visitors can stroll through the decorated streets at their own pace, experiencing the neighborhood's festive transformation and community spirit.
Address: Houston Heights, TX 77008
Highlights:
- Historic neighborhood home displays
- Live music and walking tour
- Self-guided tours all December
River Oaks Christmas Lights
Location: Houston
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: FREE
Each December, Houston’s prestigious River Oaks neighborhood transforms into a dazzling holiday spectacle, where grand estates glow with millions of sparkling lights and intricate decorations. Visitors can enjoy a scenic drive through streets lined with illuminated trees, festive displays, and creatively themed mansions, offering a unique blend of elegance and holiday cheer. This annual tradition captivates locals and tourists alike with its unmatched scale and artistic flair.
Address: River Oaks, Houston, TX 77019
Highlights:
- Elaborate mansion holiday displays
- Elegant upscale decorations
- Drive-through residential viewing
Memorial Area Holiday Lights
Location: Houston
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: FREE
The Memorial Area Holiday Lights transform West Houston’s elegant neighborhoods into a glowing winter wonderland each December. Residents deck their homes in dazzling displays, creating a magical atmosphere where visitors can stroll or drive through tree-lined streets adorned with twinkling lights, animated scenes, and festive decorations. This community-driven celebration stands out for its upscale charm, creative residential displays, and warm holiday spirit that brings neighbors and visitors together.
Address: Memorial, Houston, TX 77024
Highlights:
- West Houston residential displays
- Upscale neighborhood decorations
- Community holiday spirit
Pearland Holiday Lights
Location: Pearland
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: FREE
Pearland Holiday Lights transforms this vibrant Houston suburb into a dazzling winter wonderland each December, showcasing beautifully decorated homes and streets aglow with festive lights. This community-driven celebration highlights the warmth of neighborhood spirit through creative displays and seasonal charm, inviting visitors to experience a unique blend of holiday magic and southern hospitality.
Address: Pearland, TX 77581
Highlights:
- Southern Houston suburb displays
- Community holiday traditions
- Decorated residential streets
Classic Christmas at Katy Mills Mall
Location: Katy
Dates: November 21 - December 26, 2025
Cost: FREE
Step into a dazzling winter wonderland at Classic Christmas, Houston’s most immersive holiday event at Katy Mills Mall. This year, guests journey through a reimagined Alpine Adventure, complete with 90,000 square feet of twinkling light displays, real snow flurries, and festive activities that blend classic traditions with modern magic. From outdoor ice skating under a canopy of lights to story time with Mrs. Claus and après-ski dance parties, every moment is designed to spark joy and create lasting memories.
Highlights:
- Festive mall decorations
- Santa visits and photos
- Holiday shopping at outlet mall
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City Lights Downtown Holiday Magic
Location: Houston
Dates: November 22 - December 31, 2025
Cost: FREE
This celebration transforms downtown into a winter wonderland featuring 11 unique themed villages, including Winter Wonderlawn at POST Houston, City Hall-iday Lights at City Hall, Astros Light Up the Park at Minute Maid Park, and Peppermint Plaza at the George R. Brown Convention Center. The event includes a 42-foot Christmas tree with nearly 30,000 lights, ice skating at Discovery Green, and rooftop lights. Most venues are free to enter, though some installations like Winter Wonderlawn are ticketed.
Address: Downtown Houston, TX
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- 11 unique themed villages throughout downtown
- 42-foot Christmas tree with nearly 30,000 lights
- Ice skating at Discovery Green and rooftop lights
Houston Zoo Lights
Location: Houston
Dates: November 21, 2025 - January 4, 2026
Cost: $$
Experience the Houston Zoo reimagined as an enchanting nocturnal destination where cutting-edge LED illumination transforms familiar habitats into immersive light installations. Wander through interactive zones like the Neon Playground and Holiday Grove, where dancing fountains and wrapped oak trees create photo-worthy moments, while the Yuletide Lodge pop-up bar offers adults a cozy retreat. This seasonal transformation combines nature, technology, and holiday spirit into a multi-sensory adventure that extends the zoo experience well beyond daylight hours.
Highlights:
- Houston's most loved holiday lights experience
- Glittering winter wonderland with twinkling lights
- Festive music and holiday cheer
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Resources
Helpful information and links for planning your holiday season in Houston.