Last Updated On – 21st November, 2025
Jump To: December 5 – 7 | December 12 – 14 | December 19 – 21 | December 26 -28
The holiday season in Houston and Galveston ushers in a vibrant season of events, and I can’t wait to get my Christmas cheer on and fully embrace the holiday spirit with these events.
My guide highlights some of the best events happening throughout December, from Christmas tree lighting and light parks to lively festivals and holiday markets. Whether you’re looking to celebrate local heritage, find a unique art piece, or enjoy a joyous holiday night out, you’ll find plenty to do on the calendar.
This month’s highlights include the ARTECHOUSE Holiday Special, Classic Christmas Alpine Adventure, Pentatonix in Concert, and more!
This monthly roundup is grouped by date range, with quick summaries to help you scan and plan.
Keep the fun going with our roundup of current Houston happenings and cultural experiences—from live shows to art festivals. It’s all part of the Things To Do This Weekend in Houston!
Editor’s Note: We work hard to provide the most up-to-date information. However, all information is subject to change! As always, please verify with the organizer before heading out!
Also, please note that this article may contain affiliate links. If you click on an affiliate link and purchase, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost. We only recommend products and services that we genuinely believe will benefit our readers!
In case you are wondering about the choice of listings in this article, here is how we make our recommendations.
Also check out our articles on Date Night Ideas Houston, Sports Bars in Houston, Things to do in Downtown Houston
Events in Houston for Adults – December 5 – 7, 2025
Image credit: Ronald McDonald House Charities
10th and Final Carols and Keyboards Concerts – Attend the unforgettable 10th and Final Carols and Keyboards Concerts, one of the most moving December 2025 events in Houston for adults. Experience a dazzling night of music and holiday magic featuring multiple grand pianos, stunning vocalists, and the Chancel Choir performing a joyful, moving celebration.
Ice Village at Rice Village – Enjoy skating beneath the stars, capturing festive moments, and experiencing all the shopping and dining cheer the district offers. I recommend planning your visit around themed nights like Music Mondays and Ugly Sweater Sundays, or take photos with Santa on select dates at the district’s first-ever ice-skating rink.
Jingle & Mingle Christmas Pop-Up – Step into the ultimate holiday wonderland as Lyric Market transforms for the Jingle & Mingle Christmas Pop-Up. Enjoy delicious eats and seasonal cocktails while taking advantage of the festive cheer, fun photo opportunities, and exciting weekly surprises.
Metal & Muscle Expo – Celebrate the return of the Metal and Muscle Expo (M&M) and witness high-intensity tournaments in Wheelchair Basketball, Wheelchair Rugby, Power Soccer, and Sitting Volleyball. Also, don’t miss exciting demonstrations showcasing Wheelchair Lacrosse and Adaptive Fitness.
Image credit: Houston Apollos Wheelchair Lacrosse
Holiday Vibe Artisan Markets – Shop unique, handcrafted gifts from over 100 artisans and makers while enjoying live local music, a walkable art gallery, a cocktail bar, and 20+ global food hall restaurants. Don’t forget to snag one of the free daily swag bags and capture festive memories with Santa, I know I won’t!
Houston Hoops Showdown – Witness the 2025 national runner-up Houston face off against Florida State, reigniting a rivalry dormant for over 50 years.
The Light Park – Charge up your holiday spirit as you cruise through millions of dazzling lights perfectly synced to the festive tunes of DJ Polar Ice, all from the comfort of your car.
Sugar Land Holiday Lights – Experience the magic of Sugar Land Holiday Lights! Your ticket includes the new 9-hole Mini Golf Course, a visit to Santa Claus, and the carnival. There will also be a synthetic ice rink and various vendors and food options available.
Memorial City Lights – Join me and kick off the holidays in dazzling style at Memorial City Lights, the annual celebration that transforms 300 acres into a winter wonderland with four million shimmering lights.
ROCO’s Make a Joyful Noise! at Padre’s Wine Company – Join ROCO’s popular Make A Joyful Noise! at Padre’s Wine Bar, where we can sip, mingle, and explore musical creativity. ROCO musicians will guide you through a hands-on, no-pressure experience with instruments from all four orchestral families, perfect for beginners and enthusiasts.
First Saturday Arts Market in The Heights – Shop an array of fine art and artisan goods, all while experiencing live music and craft beverages at this family-friendly event.
Candlelight Concert: Coldplay & Imagine Dragons – Hear incredible string performances of Coldplay hits like “Clocks” and “Fix You,” alongside Imagine Dragons favorites such as “Radioactive” and “Eyes Closed.”
Astros Light Up the Park – Have a jolly time at Astros Light Up the Park, where a winding path of lights and music takes you through the stadium concourse and across the field. Discover spectacular Astros and Houston-themed light displays, offering local flair, plus fun photo opportunities with Santa and Orbit.
Galaxy Lights at Space Center Houston – Embark on a spectacular holiday adventure that transports you beyond Earth’s boundaries at Galaxy Lights, the space-themed light show at Space Center Houston. Defy gravity and create out-of-this-world memories as you experience space in a dazzling new light.
Houston Marriott Presents Winter Lights – Experience the sixth spectacular season of Texas Winter Lights, one of the most dazzling December 2025 events in Houston for adults, returning to the Marriott Marquis Houston rooftop. Discover a dazzling holiday playground with a brand-new Western theme transformed by over 100,000 twinkling lights.
The French Farm Winter Open Warehouse Sale – Step into the warehouse for five Saturdays of fantastic discounts on fine imported gourmet food and exquisite housewares, all while you enjoy complimentary wine and cheese.
The Dinner Detective Comedy Mystery Dinner Show – Houston, TX – Come with me and solve a hilarious murder mystery while enjoying a fantastic dinner at America’s largest interactive comedy murder dinner theatre show.
Classic Christmas Alpine Adventure Lights Up Houston – Get ready for an epic holiday adventure! Classic Christmas Alpine Adventure will be lighting up Katy Mills this November 2025 with 90,000 square feet of dazzling lights, real ice skating, and thrilling snow slides for the ultimate fun in Houston.
Image credit: Classic Christmas Houston
Houston Ballet’s Nutcracker – Experience the magic of the Houston Ballet’s beloved The Nutcracker this November 2025 and journey with Clara through a dazzling Land of Snow to the joyful Kingdom of Sweets.
The Night Shift Before Christmas – Prepare for The Night Shift Before Christmas, a hilarious and heartwarming holiday ghost story where you’ll watch Margot confront her inner Scrooge during her chaotic Christmas Eve shift!
Events in Houston for Adults – December 12 – 14, 2025
Very Merry POPS – Celebrate the best time of the year at the return of Very Merry POPS, Houston’s biggest holiday spectacle. Cozy up with friends and family to experience sparkling decorations and hear your favorite carols performed by Ali Stroker, the Houston Symphony, and a merry chorus.
The Nutcracker on Ice – Celebrate the season with the magic of The Nutcracker on Ice. Delight in dazzling performances, enchanting costumes, and timeless holiday music, all presented on the ice at Ice Skate Memorial City.
Justin Martin at Meow Wolf – Get ready for a night of pure euphoria as Justin Martin takes over Theta Theatre at Meow Wolf Houston for an exclusive after-hours show.
Image credit: Meow Wolf
16th Annual Gingerbread Build-Off – Join me and Architecture Center Houston’s sweetest tradition at Levy Park for the 16th Annual Gingerbread Build-Off, where local architects, designers, and enthusiasts compete to create incredible, 100% edible architectural masterpieces.
Carols on the Green with Houston Grand Opera – Conductor Jorge Parodi will be leading a night celebrating Latin American and Hispanic culture, featuring beloved carols, festive Spanish-language favorites, opera, mariachi, and performances by Butler Studio artist Demetrious Sampson, Jr.
Land of Sweets – Stop by Hilton-Americas Houston to catch a chef-crafted chocolate installation showcasing the Fab Five™ characters—Mickey Mouse®, Minnie Mouse®, Donald Duck®, Goofy®, and Pluto®. This chocolate display stands as a highlight of the Land of Sweets and one of the many stops city-wide for visitors of all ages to enjoy.
ARTECHOUSE Holiday Special – This joyful, multi-sensory celebration fuses art and technology, combining the audience favorites Spectacular Factory and Tingle Bells into one extraordinary festive experience. Prepare for vivid visuals, dynamic soundscapes, and unique touch-based interactions that redefine holiday cheer for visitors of all ages.
Eureka Heights Lights in the Heights Bike Ride – Join the annual Eureka Heights Lights in the Heights Bike Ride. Ride to Onion Creek, tour the dazzling Woodland Heights’ winter wonderland, regroup at Heights Biergarten, and finish back at the brewery for your well-deserved victory beer.
Heights Mercantile Holiday Market in the Heights – Visit the free, annual Heights Mercantile Holiday Market, where you can find one-of-a-kind gifts from over 80 local makers and vendors. Bring the kids and your well-behaved pets to shop and for a free photo opportunity with Santa Claus.
Astros Light Up the Park – I know I’ll have a jolly time at Astros Light Up the Park, where a winding path of lights and music takes us through the stadium concourse and across the field. Discover spectacular Astros and Houston-themed light displays, offering local flair, plus fun photo opportunities with Santa and Orbit.
Galaxy Lights at Space Center Houston – Embark on a spectacular holiday adventure that transports you beyond Earth’s boundaries at Galaxy Lights, the space-themed light show at Space Center Houston. Defy gravity and create out-of-this-world memories as you experience space in a dazzling new light.
Holidaze at GreenStreet – Explore three festive floors filled with interactive photo moments, ranging from sleigh-limo chaos and Grinch-level glam to hilarious elf mugshots. Redefine the spirit of the season as you finish your journey with cocktails across three themed pop-up bars.
Houston Marriott Presents Winter Lights – Experience the sixth spectacular season of Texas Winter Lights, one of the most dazzling December 2025 events in Houston for adults, returning to the Marriott Marquis Houston rooftop. Discover a dazzling holiday playground with a brand-new Western theme transformed by over 100,000 twinkling lights.
Ice Village at Rice Village – Enjoy skating beneath the stars, capturing festive moments, and experiencing all the shopping and dining cheer the district offers. Plan your visit around themed nights like Music Mondays and Ugly Sweater Sundays, or take photos with Santa on select dates at the district’s first-ever ice-skating rink.
Jingle & Mingle Christmas Pop-Up – Step into the ultimate holiday wonderland as Lyric Market transforms for the Jingle & Mingle Christmas Pop-Up. Enjoy delicious eats and seasonal cocktails while taking advantage of the festive cheer, fun photo opportunities, and exciting weekly surprises.
The Light Park – Charge up your holiday spirit as you cruise through millions of dazzling lights perfectly synced to the festive tunes of DJ Polar Ice, all from the comfort of your car.
Sugar Land Holiday Lights – Experience the magic of Sugar Land Holiday Lights! Your ticket includes the new 9-hole Mini Golf Course, a visit to Santa Claus, and the carnival. There will also be a synthetic ice rink and various vendors and food options available.
Memorial City Lights – Kick off the holidays in dazzling style at Memorial City Lights, the annual celebration that transforms 300 acres into a winter wonderland with four million shimmering lights.
Sawyer Yards Second Saturday – Explore six incredible repurposed warehouses at Sawyer Yards from 12-5 pm, where you’ll meet talented artists, discover unique art across various mediums, and find your next treasured piece.
Galveston ArtWalk on Market Street – Explore the vibrant Galveston art scene as local galleries, studios, and businesses open their doors to celebrate incredible island talent in this free, self-guided ArtWalk experience.
The Dinner Detective Comedy Mystery Dinner Show – Houston, TX – Solve a hilarious murder mystery while enjoying a fantastic dinner at America’s largest interactive comedy murder dinner theatre show.
Houston Botanic Garden presents Radiant Nature – See the Year of the Fire Horse brilliantly celebrated with giant glowing Texas bluebonnets, a half-football-field-long zodiac snake, and vibrant, tranquil lanterns set among the beautiful plant life.
Meow Wolf presents Phenomenomaly – Unlock an all-new adventure at Meow Wolf’s Phenomenomaly, a vibrant, living stage filled with local Houston artists and continuous performances. Discover music, dance, and theater unfolding around every corner in a wholly unique and immersive experience.
The French Farm Winter Open Warehouse Sale – Step into the warehouse for five Saturdays of fantastic discounts on fine imported gourmet food and exquisite housewares, all while you enjoy complimentary wine and cheese.
Yoga in the Bamboo Garden – Unroll your mat and jump into Bamboo Bliss, a unique All Levels Vinyasa Flow experience in Asia Society Texas’s serene garden! Secure your spot now for this must-do November 2025 event in Houston for adults and find clarity and empowerment amidst the tranquil bamboo.
Classic Christmas Alpine Adventure Lights Up Houston – Get ready for an epic holiday adventure! Classic Christmas Alpine Adventure will be lighting up Katy Mills this November 2025 with 90,000 square feet of dazzling lights, real ice skating, and thrilling snow slides for the ultimate fun in Houston.
Houston Ballet’s Nutcracker – Experience the magic of the Houston Ballet’s beloved The Nutcracker this November 2025 and journey with Clara through a dazzling Land of Snow to the joyful Kingdom of Sweets.
The Night Shift Before Christmas – Prepare for The Night Shift Before Christmas, a hilarious and heartwarming holiday ghost story where you’ll watch Margot confront her inner Scrooge during her chaotic Christmas Eve shift!
Image credit: Alley Theatre
Events in Houston for Adults – December 19 – 21, 2025
Pentatonix at Toyota Center – Experience the vocal quintet—three-time GRAMMY® winners and Daytime EMMY® nominated—on their biggest, boldest, and most dazzling holiday tour yet.
Image credit: Pentatonix
Who’s Holiday! – Pull up a seat and fill your cup for Who’s Holiday!, a wildly funny and heartfelt adults-only comedy. Witness the hilarious one-woman show starring Houston favorite Chaney Moore, as she portrays Cindy Lou Who, now grown up and residing in a Mount Crumpit trailer. Hear her recall the infamous Christmas Eve she met the Grinch and the twisted turn of events that followed.
ARTECHOUSE Holiday Special – This joyful, multi-sensory celebration fuses art and technology, combining the audience favorites Spectacular Factory and Tingle Bells into one extraordinary festive experience. Prepare for vivid visuals, dynamic soundscapes, and unique touch-based interactions that redefine holiday cheer for visitors of all ages.
Image credit: fever
Candlelight Concert: Christmas Carols on Strings – Immerse yourself in a 60-minute, live, multi-sensory string experience showcasing beloved holiday classics like “Carol of the Bells,” “Silent Night,” and “Do You Hear What I Hear.”
Astros Light Up the Park – Have a jolly time at Astros Light Up the Park, where a winding path of lights and music takes you through the stadium concourse and across the field. Discover spectacular Astros and Houston-themed light displays, offering local flair, plus fun photo opportunities with Santa and Orbit.
Image credit: Houston Astros
Galaxy Lights at Space Center Houston – Embark on a spectacular holiday adventure that transports you beyond Earth’s boundaries at Galaxy Lights, the space-themed light show at Space Center Houston. Defy gravity and create out-of-this-world memories as you experience space in a dazzling new light.
Holidaze at GreenStreet – Explore three festive floors filled with interactive photo moments, ranging from sleigh-limo chaos and Grinch-level glam to hilarious elf mugshots. Redefine the spirit of the season as you finish your journey with cocktails across three themed pop-up bars.
Houston Marriott Presents Winter Lights – Experience the sixth spectacular season of Texas Winter Lights, one of the most dazzling December 2025 events in Houston for adults, returning to the Marriott Marquis Houston rooftop. Discover a dazzling holiday playground with a brand-new Western theme transformed by over 100,000 twinkling lights.
Ice Village at Rice Village – Enjoy skating beneath the stars, capturing festive moments, and experiencing all the shopping and dining cheer the district offers. Plan your visit around themed nights like Music Mondays and Ugly Sweater Sundays, or take photos with Santa on select dates at the district’s first-ever ice-skating rink.
Jingle & Mingle Christmas Pop-Up – Step into the ultimate holiday wonderland as Lyric Market transforms for the Jingle & Mingle Christmas Pop-Up. Enjoy delicious eats and seasonal cocktails while taking advantage of the festive cheer, fun photo opportunities, and exciting weekly surprises.
The Light Park – Charge up your holiday spirit as you cruise through millions of dazzling lights perfectly synced to the festive tunes of DJ Polar Ice, all from the comfort of your car.
Sugar Land Holiday Lights – Experience the magic of Sugar Land Holiday Lights! Your ticket includes the new 9-hole Mini Golf Course, visit to Santa Claus, and the carnival. There will also be a synthetic ice rink and various vendors and food options available.
Memorial City Lights – Kick off the holidays in dazzling style at Memorial City Lights, the annual celebration that transforms 300 acres into a winter wonderland with four million shimmering lights.
The Murder Mystery Co.’s Dinner Theater Show at Saltgrass Steak House – Don a mask and step into a mysterious night of deceit, secrets, and delicious food at this October’s murder mystery dinner. Join one of the most intriguing November 2025 events in Houston for adults, where you can become a suspect, a detective, or even the killer.
The Dinner Detective Comedy Mystery Dinner Show – Houston, TX – Solve a hilarious murder mystery while enjoying a fantastic dinner at America’s largest interactive comedy murder dinner theatre show.
Houston Botanic Garden presents Radiant Nature – See the Year of the Fire Horse brilliantly celebrated with giant glowing Texas bluebonnets, a half-football-field-long zodiac snake, and vibrant, tranquil lanterns set among the beautiful plant life.
Meow Wolf presents Phenomenomaly – Unlock an all-new adventure at Meow Wolf’s Phenomenomaly, a vibrant, living stage filled with local Houston artists and continuous performances. Discover music, dance, and theater unfolding around every corner in a wholly unique and immersive experience.
Classic Christmas Alpine Adventure Lights Up Houston – Get ready for an epic holiday adventure! Classic Christmas Alpine Adventure will be lighting up Katy Mills this November 2025 with 90,000 square feet of dazzling lights, real ice skating, and thrilling snow slides for the ultimate fun in Houston.
Houston Ballet’s Nutcracker – Experience the magic of the Houston Ballet’s beloved The Nutcracker this November 2025 and journey with Clara through a dazzling Land of Snow to the joyful Kingdom of Sweets.
The Night Shift Before Christmas – Prepare for The Night Shift Before Christmas, a hilarious and heartwarming holiday ghost story where you’ll watch Margot confront her inner Scrooge during her chaotic Christmas Eve shift!
Events in Houston for Adults – December 26 – 28, 2025
Cruel Intentions: The ’90s Musical – Catch the highly anticipated return of Cruel Intentions: The ’90s Musical at The Garden Theatre. Enjoy this sexy, hilarious, and utterly cruel musical featuring a score packed with your favorite ’90s hits by artists like Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, and Boyz II Men.
ARTECHOUSE Holiday Special – This joyful, multi-sensory celebration fuses art and technology, combining the audience favorites Spectacular Factory and Tingle Bells into one extraordinary festive experience. Prepare for vivid visuals, dynamic soundscapes, and unique touch-based interactions that redefine holiday cheer for visitors of all ages.
The Dinner Detective Comedy Mystery Dinner Show – Houston, TX – Solve a hilarious murder mystery while enjoying a fantastic dinner at America’s largest interactive comedy murder dinner theatre show.
Houston Botanic Garden presents Radiant Nature – See the Year of the Fire Horse brilliantly celebrated with giant glowing Texas bluebonnets, a half-football-field-long zodiac snake, and vibrant, tranquil lanterns set among the beautiful plant life.
Astros Light Up the Park – Have a jolly time at Astros Light Up the Park, where a winding path of lights and music takes you through the stadium concourse and across the field. Discover spectacular Astros and Houston-themed light displays, offering local flair, plus fun photo opportunities with Santa and Orbit.
Galaxy Lights at Space Center Houston – Embark on a spectacular holiday adventure that transports you beyond Earth’s boundaries at Galaxy Lights, the space-themed light show at Space Center Houston. Defy gravity and create out-of-this-world memories as you experience space in a dazzling new light.
Holidaze at GreenStreet – Explore three festive floors filled with interactive photo moments, ranging from sleigh-limo chaos and Grinch-level glam to hilarious elf mugshots. Redefine the spirit of the season as you finish your journey with cocktails across three themed pop-up bars.
Houston Marriott Presents Winter Lights – Experience the sixth spectacular season of Texas Winter Lights, one of the most dazzling December 2025 events in Houston for adults, returning to the Marriott Marquis Houston rooftop. Discover a dazzling holiday playground with a brand-new Western theme transformed by over 100,000 twinkling lights.
Image Credit: marriott.com
Ice Village at Rice Village – Enjoy skating beneath the stars, capturing festive moments, and experiencing all the shopping and dining cheer the district offers. Plan your visit around themed nights like Music Mondays and Ugly Sweater Sundays, or take photos with Santa on select dates at the district’s first-ever ice-skating rink.
Jingle & Mingle Christmas Pop-Up – Step into the ultimate holiday wonderland as Lyric Market transforms for the Jingle & Mingle Christmas Pop-Up. Enjoy delicious eats and seasonal cocktails while taking advantage of the festive cheer, fun photo opportunities, and exciting weekly surprises.
The Light Park – Charge up your holiday spirit as you cruise through millions of dazzling lights perfectly synced to the festive tunes of DJ Polar Ice, all from the comfort of your car.
Image credit: The Light Park
Sugar Land Holiday Lights – Experience the magic of Sugar Land Holiday Lights! Your ticket includes the new 9-hole Mini Golf Course, a visit to Santa Claus, and the carnival. There will also be a synthetic ice rink and various vendors and food options available.
Image credit: Sugar Land Holiday Lights
Memorial City Lights – Kick off the holidays in dazzling style at Memorial City Lights, the annual celebration that transforms 300 acres into a winter wonderland with four million shimmering lights.
Meow Wolf presents Phenomenomaly – Unlock an all-new adventure at Meow Wolf’s Phenomenomaly, a vibrant, living stage filled with local Houston artists and continuous performances. Discover music, dance, and theater unfolding around every corner in a wholly unique and immersive experience.
Classic Christmas Alpine Adventure Lights Up Houston – Get ready for an epic holiday adventure! Classic Christmas Alpine Adventure will be lighting up Katy Mills this November 2025 with 90,000 square feet of dazzling lights, real ice skating, and thrilling snow slides for the ultimate fun in Houston.
Houston Ballet’s Nutcracker – Experience the magic of the Houston Ballet’s beloved The Nutcracker this November 2025 and journey with Clara through a dazzling Land of Snow to the joyful Kingdom of Sweets.
The Night Shift Before Christmas – Prepare for The Night Shift Before Christmas, a hilarious and heartwarming holiday ghost story where you’ll watch Margot confront her inner Scrooge during her chaotic Christmas Eve shift!
From live shows to art festivals, keep the fun going with our roundup of current Houston happenings and cultural experiences. For the latest plans, explore our Things To Do This Weekend in Houston guide.
- Houston Highlights: Dec. 15 to 18 – Food, Music, Arts & More - December 14, 2025
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