The holidays are here, and amidst the chaos, overspending and stress of extended family functions, it’s nice to get out and enjoy a few wonderful events that lighten the mood. Houston is a city that embraces the season, and makes sure that families and friends have plenty to do. If you’re looking for some must-see holiday experiences, here are four in Houston and beyond to make your December a little merrier and brighter.
Houston Zoo Lights
Experience the Houston Zoo come alive with thousands of lights and a spectacular holiday display. The whimsical creation includes colorful light formations, animated animal sculptures, music, hot cocoa, cookies and the incredible “Holly Berry” feature. The majestic oaks of the zoo will be dressed up as well, so gather family and friends for a memorable stroll through one of Houston’s top holiday attractions. The most important details are as follows:
- Music shows occur daily during zoo lights at 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. by the reflection pool
- Dinner, treats and drinks are all available for purchase
- On Prime Nights, special parking is available
- Zoo lights will run all of December and into January, daily (except for the 24th and 25th) from 6 to 10 p.m.
- Check the website for special event nights, closures and additional information
Magical Winter Lights
Magical Winter Lights is a one-of-a-kind extravaganza, dazzling production and lantern festival located in La Marque. The event runs November through January and features a Chinese acrobatics group, hand-made lanterns, storybook tales come alive and much more. In a city as diverse as Houston, Magical Winter Lights aims to bring the world together and show its beauty all in one place. It’s the kind of event that will easily become a holiday tradition and bring together generations of people to experience an unmatched beauty. Some things to know before you go are:
- Located at Gulf Greyhound Park
- Open Monday-Thursday 5-10 p.m., and Friday-Sunday 3-11 p.m.
- Top features include dinosaur land, magical wonderland, the holiday market, mystery of the east, man and nature and landmarks of the world
- Characters, food, games, rides and more are all a part of the entertainment
Winterfest at Typhoon Texas
Houston’s premiere waterpark takes on a winter twist during December. Families who want to enjoy a little holiday magic can visit Typhoon Texas to experience miles of lights, a giant slide, ice skating and Santa’s workshop. Kids of all ages will delight in the detail and thought put into this annual event. Before you go, note:
- Winterfest runs through December 31st
- Hours are Sunday-Thursday 6-9:30 p.m. and Friday-Saturday 6 p.m.-midnight
- Winterfest is closed Christmas Day
- Admission includes petting zoo, pony rides, hay ride and more
Ice Land: Ice Sculptures, A Caribbean Christmas
Moody Gardens in Galveston, Texas becomes a chill hangout for the holidays. Relax in the ultimate cool environment while perusing an undersea adventure carved from two million pounds of ice. The unique holiday tribute features plenty of entertainment, food, drink and more throughout December and part of January. The information you’ll need to know is:
- Hours are 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., or 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. depending on the day
- There is also a Festival of Lights
- Event runs through January 8th
- You can buy tickets online
- To save the most money on your experience, make sure to look into packages
- Check the website to find out more information
Houston and the surrounding areas are definitely alive and well this holiday season. After shopping, parties, wrapping, decorating and cooking, make sure to leave time to make some memories. Although these are four of the Houston area’s top holiday events, make sure to keep an eye out for other inspired celebrations.
