For many, driving around town looking at Christmas lights is a treasured pastime from their childhood, and Houston neighborhoods are lit up and ready for passing along this tradition with your own families. Be sure to enjoy the joyful season with the BEST Houston neighborhood Christmas lights!

Lights in the Heights

Saturday, December 8th, 5-9 PM

This year the event will feature homes on Euclid and Byrne. They ask that people take Lyft or Uber to help with the traffic and make the event as stress-free for the homeowners in that area. Check out a detailed map of where road closures will be.

Drive through River Oaks to see the mansions and huge oaks wrapped in lights. These traditional displays are amazing with dripping lights and more. River Oaks Country Club, Inwood Drive, Willowick, and Del Monte are some prime streets. You may want to check out the corner house at Mockingbird and Del Monte in past years they have been known for their amazing light display.

River Oaks Residents spend over $100K to decorate their homes like the River Oaks Santa House located at 3404 Del Monte. This home has $60K in statues & artificial trees, plus it is the home of the River Oaks Santa! Each home is different.

It all starts the Friday after Thanksgiving and ends Dec 25th! Some residents leave Decorations and Lights until 1st week in January. Each home is decorated independently. Lights Om: 5:30pm Lights Off: 11:00pm

Prestonwood Forest proudly welcomes thousands of visitors every year to share in our Neighborhood’s Christmas spirit and Holiday decorations. This year Nite of Lites officially begins December 11, 2018, and ends on January 1st, 2018. Check out this map for more details.

Don Franck has been preparing his Christmas display all year long. In fact, some say his show is the hottest one in town.
He has a separate breaker devoted to the show at his home in the 15000 block of Viney Creek Drive. With over 150,000 twinkling lights and thousands upon thousands of feet of electrical cord, Franck started his over-the-top tradition less than 10 years ago. Since then, it has grown by leaps and bounds. Check out his Facebook page for updates for 2018.

Located on the east side of Pearland off 518, this is another neighborhood that’s been going all out for years. It has several categories of competition, a hayride, plenty of traffic, tons of homes decked out in lights, and a few that are truly spectacular.  We have been regular Green Tee viewers for a few years now, even if I may have gotten mad at a few of my favorite houses last year for not participating.  And if going on foot is your thing, this is a great neighborhood to run through.

Located between Westheimer and San Felipe and Chimney Rock and Voss, Briargrove is a front-yard neighborhood that is full of young children and tons of gorgeous oak trees that are overflowing with lights at Christmas time. When it comes to holidays, Briargrove is a family-centered neighborhood that goes all out. 

While there are many neighborhoods in The Woodlands that feature house, and entire streets, lit up to deck the halls, the Panther Creek and Alden Bridge neighborhoods are Christmas light display show-stoppers! Some light displays are choreographed to music, and you can sit back and drive through both large neighborhoods and soak in the season.

For 32 years now, this Cleveland area family has been lighting up the skies with Christmas Ranch – a drive-thru light display not to be missed!  Each year, they invite the community to come out and take in their magnificent light display, and while the views are completely free – donations are appreciated and benefit those in need within the area.

For those up North, there is a GIANT Display in Dayton, Texas {located on FM 1960}. It’s like nothing you’ve probably ever seen with thousands of lights and hundreds of decorations, including Santa, sleigh, reindeer, snowmen, angels… everything! They set it to music, and you are sure to find yourself in the holiday spirit.

BEST HOLIDAY EVENTS

Zoo Lights at Houston Zoo

Through Sunday, January 14, 2018 – Sip on hot chocolate as you stroll around the Houston Zoo taking in the displays made up of more than two million lights. Step inside of a life-sized snow globe, check out the train display and enjoy music from local carolers at the Reflection Pool stage at 7 pm and 8 pm each evening.

Winter Holiday Installations at Discovery Green

Daily through Sunday, January 21, 2018 – Although not explicitly Christmas, Discovery Green’s winter installations are a defining staple of Houston holidays. This the park once again features its famous outdoor skating rink The ICE at Discovery Green (including its many themed skate nights). Along with other holiday lights and decorations, you’ll want to be sure to check out the beautiful, interactive sound and light display Hello, Trees! A Walking Serenade and then maybe strike a pose within the glowing, photo-ready Merry Christmas family postcard.

Holiday Markets & Shopping Pop-Ups Around Houston

Through Saturday, December 9 – Shop local at the ever-growing list of pop-up markets and holiday shopping celebrations, many packed with treats and free holiday entertainment. Favorites include First Saturday Arts Market in The Heights, Pop Shop Houston Holiday Festival at Green Street, Holiday Heartmade Art Market at Market Square Park, and Cheers & Beers Holiday Market at Saint Arnold Brewing Co.

Magical Winter Lights at Gulf Greyhound Park

Through Sunday, January 8, 2018 – Explore the seven themed areas of Sam Houston Race Park’s Magical Winter Lights, featuring larger-than-life Chinese lanterns that resemble landmarks in America, Europe, Asia, Australia and more.

Festival of Lights at Moody Gardens

Through Sunday, January 7, 2018 – See the impressive one million light display at Moody Gardens complete with animation and sound-enhancement during the annual Festival of Lights. While you’re there, take a spin on the ice at the outdoor skating rink.

Sugar Land Holiday Lights at Constellation Field

Through New Year’s Day, Sunday, January 1, 2018 – The home field of the Sugar Land Skeeters is spending its winter break decked out in 2.5 million lights, with red and green lights lining the seating section, light tunnels, giant light displays and more.

Mistletoe on the Go | Market Square Park | Daily | FREE

Steal a kiss, or just a selfie, under the largest ball of mistletoe in Texas, stationed squarely at Market Square Park in Downtown. With a diameter of 150 inches, it’s sure to inspire some big kisses.
Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley at Main Street Theater | Through Sunday, December 17 – This charming bon bon of bon mots is a “sequel” to Jane Austen’s beloved Pride and Prejudice. Rippling with wit and good cheer, it’s a festive, romantic comedy centering on the middle Bennet sister, Mary, and her path to independence and love.

Home for the Holidays in Old Town Spring

Through Saturday, December 23 – Stroll around Old Town Spring visiting area businesses and restaurants to get into the holiday spirit. Visit during the weekend for special activities, visits from Santa, strolling performers, live entertainment and more.

10th Annual Galveston Holiday Lighting Celebration at Hotel Galvez

Friday, November 24 | FREE – The celebration begins with the arrival of Santa by horse-drawn carriage and the lighting of the hotel’s tree. Enjoy live performances from the Galveston Ballet as the holiday season in Galveston officially launches.

98th Annual Mayor’s Holiday Celebration & Tree Lighting at City Hall

Friday, December 1 | FREE Join Mayor Sylvester Turner for this annual holiday extravaganza including music, fireworks, the lighting of the tree and more family fun. Bring a new toy to donate, and you’ll receive a light-up Santa hat.

Holiday on 19th Street in the Heights

Friday, December 1 | FREE – Enjoy free in-store cocktails, roving carolers, and snow as the shops on historic 19th Street open their doors for a special Friday evening of shopping and holiday cheer.

44th Annual Dickens on the Strand in Galveston

Friday, December 1 to Sunday, December 3 – Travel through history as the historic Strand is transformed into Charles Dickens’ Victorian London for this annual event. Enjoy live entertainment, food, and shopping from local vendors, and a visit from characters of Dickens’ books.

8th Annual Katy Old-Fashioned Christmas Festival in Historic Downtown Katy

Saturday, December 2 – Katy Market Day kicks off the holiday with carolers, a holiday market, food trucks, the No Label Brewing beer garden, a snow park with 50,000 pounds of snow, Santa Claus, and more. The official tree lighting will take place at 6 pm. $5 for photos with Santa.

Christmas in the Park at George Ranch Historical Park

Saturday, December 2 through Saturday, December 23 – Take a festive hayride to explore what Christmas looked like from the 1830s to 1930s, listen in on story time with Santa, explore traditional Texas holiday decorations, take a hayride, enjoy holiday refreshments, and more. The old-timey holiday event happens at George Ranch Historical Park every Saturday in December leading up to Christmas and most weekdays during the week before the holiday.

15th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting at Sugar Land Town Square

Thursday, December 7 | FREE – See the lighting of the towering 40-foot tree in Sugar Land’s Town Square during a ceremony with an appearance from Santa Claus, holiday refreshments, and live performances.

2018 Tomball German Christmas Market & Festival

Friday, December 9 to Sunday, December 11 | FREE – Shop unique gifts from more than 170 vendors, enjoy live music on four different stages, chow down on German fare, step into the petting zoo and more during the Tomball German Christmas Market.

Lights in Heights in the Woodlands Heights

Saturday, December 9 – Bask in the Christmas spirit and take in the beautifully decorated homes of the Woodland Heights while enjoying holiday musical performers on front porches. This is one of many Houstonians’ holiday favorites, and the small neighborhood can often be overwhelmed with vehicular and foot traffic. Although the streets are public, the homes are private, so be sure to respect the properties and their owners.

Holiday Market & Pop-Ups December 2018

Cheers & Beers Holiday Market at Saint Arnold Brewing Co.

Friday, December 1 | FREE – Shop for unique gifts when Shop Local sets up their Cheers & Beer Holiday Market at Saint Arnold Brewing Co. This family-friendly event will feature plenty of local vendors, root beer floats for the kiddos, music, ugly sweaters, and even a gift wrapping section. 5pm to 10pm.

Pop Shop Houston Holiday Festival 2018

Friday, December 1 through Sunday, December 3 – Pop Shop Houston, the artfully curated market and festival, features handmade and vintage shopping, art exhibitions, craft workshops, and fun times that showcase handmade and vintage fashion, art, and indie products. General admission tickets are $8 on Saturday and Sunday and are good for both days; $24 for the Friday night Preview Party. Friday 6pm to 10pm; Saturday 10am to 7pm; Sunday 11am to 6pm.

AIGA Houston’s DesignCraft Market at Market Square Park

Saturday, December 2 | FREE – AIGA Houston’s eight annual holiday market features the work of local artists, crafters, creatives, and more. Find the perfect gifts and enjoy demonstrations by local artisans, live music, and local food trucks. 10 am to 5 pm.

First Saturday Arts Market in The Heights

Saturday, December 2 | FREE – Browse fine art and eclectic goods at the free monthly First Saturday Arts Market in the heart of the Houston Heights. In addition to shopping and browsing, you’ll find live music, food truck bites, great people watching and more. 11 am to 5 pm.

9th Annual Craftidote Handmade Market at Antidote Coffee

Saturday, December 2 | FREE – Antidote Coffee in The Heights hosts the ninth edition of their annual holiday market, featuring t-shirts, ceramics, textiles, arts, crafts, jewelry, and more. There’s no cost to attend, but all purchases are on you, of course. Noon to 5 pm.

CultureMap Holiday Pop-Up Shop at Silver Street

Sunday, December 3 | FREE – Head to the CultureMap Holiday Pop-up Shop, a curated holiday boutique featuring 25 local retailers for men, women, kids, pets, jewelry, gifts, and home, as well as gourmet food and beverages. Enjoy cocktails, festive food, carolers, crafting, complimentary gift wrapping and more while you shop. 11 am to 4 pm.
Chimney Rock Market | Sunday, December 3 and Sunday, December 17 | FREE – Chimney Rock Market draws neighbors and locals with a mix of friendly vendors, unique goods, family entertainment, and dog-friendly fun. The market is held twice a month, on the first and third Sunday. Noon to 4 pm.

The Market at Sawyer Yards

Saturday, December 9 | FREE – The Market at Sawyer Yards is a curated market featuring a mix of artist mediums with a focus on folk art, “maker is the seller,” and artisan crafts, including packaged specialty foods. 11 am to 5 pm.

Holiday Heartmade Art Market at Market Square Park

Saturday, December 9 | FREE – Find perfect gifts and goodies at the first ever holiday edition of the curated Heartmade Art Market in Downtown. 11 am to 6 pm.

HTX Boss Babes Holiday Market at GreenStreet

Saturday, December 9 | FREE – The HTX Boss Babes Holiday Market will feature over 70 women-owned businesses and vendors at GreenStreet in Downtown. 3 pm to 9 pm.

George Ranch

December 2 – 23, 2017
Celebrate a Christmas just like the first settlers in Texas did with a decorated Victorian house, hay ride, wassail, and gingerbread. Also, check out the Campfire Christmas, an 1862 Confederate Fundraiser Ball.

Carols On The Green

December 7, 2018
6pm – 8pm

This Christmas season, come out to Central Green for an evening of carols sung and performed by the music team at St. Peter’s. We’ll be singing all of the classics and putting our twist on a few others as well! The evening will be fun for the whole family, so bring your kids, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, distant relatives, the neighbor you’ve always needed an excuse to meet, Scrooge, Tiny Tim…and anyone else you can think of!
Picnic and lawn chairs welcome.

Holiday on 19th Street

Join us for our annual Holiday celebration! Your Holiday on 19th Street experience will include roaming Christmas carolers, in-store festivities, cocktails, live music, REAL SNOW, and local shopping! Sponsors: ALICE blue, Vinal Edge Records, Fly High Little Bunny, Big Blue Whale, Jubilee, Venus Hair Houston, Squared Away, The Lift, Bliss on 19th, Manready Mercantile, Dramatika Custom Framing, AG Antiques on West 19th, Harold’s Restaurant & Tap Room, My Cabinet Source Jumper Maybach Fine Art Gallery, Emerson Rose, Boomtown Coffee, Casa Ramirez FOLKART Gallery, Eclectic Home, CODA in the Heights, Retropolis, We Olive, Dr. Nataly Perez, Thread, Boomtown Coffee.

Holiday in the Park, Bellaire, Texas

Thursday, November 29, 2018
Time: 6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Location: Bellaire Town Square

Sources from the North Pole are predicting Santa’s official arrival in Bellaire at the Holiday in the Park celebration. Santa’s elves will be converting Bellaire Town Square (7008 South Rice, behind City Hall) into a winter wonderland for the festivities on November 29th from 6:00 – 8:30 PM. Pictures with Santa will be available for purchase provided by Natural Expressions.

Santa will bring with him a variety of free activities which include holiday music from local schools, official holiday tree lighting, and rides aboard a kiddie train, holiday crafts, pony rides, moon bounces, and a petting zoo. The highlight of Santa’s visit will be the two amazing snow slides for kids to enjoy! Storytelling will be held in Bellaire City Hall. A variety of different foods will be available for purchase provided by local restaurants and civic groups. Kids – Don’t forget your mittens!!

ENTER HERE!