Beyond lights and markets, Houston offers unique seasonal experiences and holiday activities. From ice skating rinks and themed attractions to museum exhibits and family-friendly festivals, the city provides diverse holiday fun. Explore free community events and special seasonal experiences throughout the Greater Houston area.
A Charlie Brown Christmas 5K/10K
Location: Houston
Dates: Saturday, December 6th
Cost: $$
The A Charlie Brown Christmas 5K/10K at Addicks Park and Ride features a limited edition Peanuts-themed tech t-shirt and a collectible snow globe finisher medal for participants. Runners of all ages can choose between a 5K run/walk, a 10K run/walk, or the untimed Snoopy Dash for children under 12. Additionally, participants are encouraged to donate a new toy to support families in need, with Santa Claus making a special appearance post-race.
Highlights:
- Earn limited edition Peanuts-themed race swag, including a tech t-shirt and a collectible snow globe finisher medal.
- Enjoy an appearance by Santa Claus post-race.
- Contribute to a good cause by donating a new toy to families in need.
Palm Coast Tree Lighting Ceremony
Location: Palm Coast
Dates: November 29, 2025, 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Cost: FREE
The Palm Coast Tree Lighting Ceremony at Central Park in Town Center marks the official start of the holiday season, featuring the arrival of Santa Claus and a festive atmosphere. This kickoff event for the 20th Annual Fantasy Light Festival includes food trucks, children's crafts, and opportunities to write letters to Santa. Attendees can also enjoy memorable photo opportunities with Santa at this family-friendly gathering.
Venue: Central Park in Town Center
Address: Palm Coast, FL
Phone: 386-986-2323
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Official start to the holiday season in Palm Coast.
- Kick-off event for the 20th Annual Fantasy Light Festival.
- Family-friendly festivities with Santa Claus.
Missouri City SnowFest
Location: Missouri City
Dates: December 6, 2025
Cost: FREE
Missouri City SnowFest at the City Hall Complex is a winter festival featuring a giant snow hill, carnival rides, and a festive parade. Participants can engage in the SnowFest Shuffle, a fun run requiring a toy donation for registration, and enjoy a vibrant parade with floats and performers. The event concludes with a spectacular fireworks display, making it a highlight of the holiday season.
Venue: City Hall Complex
Address: 1522 Texas Parkway, Missouri City, TX 77489
Phone: 281-403-8500
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Enjoy a giant snow hill and thrilling carnival rides at the SnowFest Festival.
- Capture memorable moments with Santa Claus at the festival.
- Experience a dazzling fireworks display to conclude the day's festivities.
Santa Sightings
Location: La Porte
Dates: December 11 & 18, 2025
Cost: Free
Santa Sightings at Five Points Plaza offers children a chance to meet Santa Claus and hand-deliver their Christmas wish lists. Families can capture memorable photos with Santa during this special event. It's an ideal opportunity for children to share their holiday wishes directly with Santa.
Venue: Five Points Plaza
Address: 100 S. Broadway St., La Porte, TX 77571
Phone: 281-470-7275
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- An opportunity to see Santa Claus and capture memorable photos.
- A chance to hand-deliver your Christmas wish list directly to Santa.
- Meet Santa Claus and share your Christmas wish list.
Holiday in the Park
Location: Bellaire
Dates: December 4, 2025
Cost: FREE
Holiday in the Park at Bellaire Town Square features a festive evening filled with live music, family fun, and an expected snowfall. The event officially welcomes the holiday season to Bellaire, creating a community celebration with activities for all ages. Attendees can enjoy the transformation of the town square into a winter wonderland.
Venue: Bellaire Town Square
Address: 5101 Bellaire Blvd, Bellaire, TX 77401
Phone: 713-662-8280
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- A magical evening filled with music, family fun, and a forecast of abundant snow.
- The official welcoming of the holiday season to Bellaire with community spirit.
- Enjoy live music from local choirs filling the air with festive tunes.
Pictures with Santa at First Colony Mall
Location: Sugar Land
Dates: Specific dates and times for Santa visits are not provided in the source data, but it is implied to be a seasonal event during the holiday period.
Cost: $
Pictures with Santa at First Colony Mall gives children the opportunity to meet Santa Claus and take memorable photos. Families can visit Santa during mall hours for a festive photo experience. This event enhances the holiday atmosphere at the mall, making it a cherished tradition for many.
Venue: First Colony Mall
Address: 16535 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, TX 77479
Phone: (281) 265-2353
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Opportunity for children to meet and take photos with Santa.
- Capture memorable photos with Santa Claus.
- Experience the festive holiday atmosphere at First Colony Mall.
Media:
Green Mountain Energy Ice at Discovery Green
Location: Houston
Dates: November 15 - February 2
Cost: $$
Green Mountain Energy Ice at Discovery Green features Houston's only outdoor ice skating rink, transforming Kinder Lake into a winter wonderland. Skaters can enjoy unique attractions like 'Bumper Cars on Ice,' and meet Santa Claus on select Sundays. The rink offers special themed nights and budget-friendly skating options throughout the season.
Venue: Discovery Green
Address: 1500 McKinney St, Houston, TX 77010
Phone: 713-400-7336
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Experience the joy of ice skating at Houston's premier outdoor rink, transforming Kinder Lake into a winter wonderland.
- Add a unique thrill with 'Bumper Cars on Ice,' a new attraction offering fun crashes and spins.
- Meet Santa Claus on select Sundays, offering a magical holiday encounter for children of all ages.
Rosenberg Hometown Holiday Festival
Location: Rosenberg
Dates: Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025 | 12-8 p.m.
Cost: FREE
The Rosenberg Hometown Holiday Festival in Historic Downtown Rosenberg is a cherished community event celebrating the holiday season. Families can enjoy a day filled with holiday cheer while exploring the charming streets adorned with festive decorations. This event highlights the spirit of the season and the community's commitment to seasonal celebrations.
Venue: Historic Downtown Rosenberg
Address: 2100 Ave G, Rosenberg, TX 77471
Phone: 832-595-3300
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- A beloved community event celebrating the holiday season.
- Gather with friends and family for a day of festive fun.
- Enjoy a festive day filled with holiday cheer and community spirit.
League City 64th Annual Christmas Boat Lane Parade
Location: League City
Dates: Annual Event
Cost: $
The League City 64th Annual Christmas Boat Lane Parade takes place on Clear Lake and features approximately 80 decorated boats, with hundreds more expected to join the festive waters. Participants can decorate their boats and enjoy a special brunch at South Shore Harbor Resort as part of the entry fee. This annual event fosters community spirit and holiday cheer.
Highlights:
- The 64th Annual Christmas Boat Lane Parade on Clear Lake.
- A collaborative effort to unify local cities and enhance the event's community appeal.
- The participation of approximately 80 decorated boats, with expectations for hundreds more to join the festive waters.
Resources
Helpful information and links for planning your holiday season in Houston.