Jump To: December 4 – 6 | December 11 – 13 | December 18 – 20 | December 25 – 27
December in Houston and Galveston ushers in a vibrant month of events, and I can’t wait to get my Christmas spirit on and fully embrace December with these events.
My guide highlights some of the best events happening throughout December, from new shows to look forward to to lively festivals and markets. Whether you’re looking to celebrate local heritage, find a unique art piece, or enjoy a joyous night out, you’ll find plenty to do on the calendar.
This month’s highlights include the Dickens on the Strand, Holiday in the Gardens, Christmas Boat Lane Parade, and more!
This monthly roundup is grouped by date range, with quick summaries to help you scan and plan.
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 an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. 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, Best Rooftop Bars in Houston, Sports Bars in Houston, and Free Things to Do in Houston at Night.
Events in Houston for Adults – December 4 – 6, 2026
Grand Central Park Artisan Market – Browse the Grand Central Park Artisan Market, where vendors share their crafting secrets, and you can fill a market passport for a chance to win a prize. The market will also feature holiday cheer, free professional photos with Santa, and a Holiday “Shop Small” Raffle.
Dickens on The Strand – Step into Victorian London at Galveston’s celebrated holiday street festival, where daily parades, carolers, bagpipers, jugglers, and live stage entertainment fill the streets. Browse vendors selling Victorian-inspired crafts, clothing, jewelry, and holiday treats, then catch special events such as the Whimsical Whisker Revue, Victorian Bed Races, and a costume contest.
Image credit: Visit Galveston
Home Run Christmas Market – Knock out your holiday shopping at this festive market at League City Ballpark with more than 50 local vendors selling handmade gifts, boutique clothing, specialty foods, jewelry and Christmas décor.
2nd Annual Houston Vette Fest – Check out the 2nd Annual Houston Vette Fest, presented by Fertitta Chevrolet, for a family-friendly outing centered on Corvette enthusiasts.
Christmas, Made Slowly: A creative art experience – Trade the holiday rush for a cozy, two-hour creative experience at Restoration Studio in Sawyer Yards, complete with twinkle lights, Christmas music, warm wassail and cookies.
ThriftCon – Hunt for vintage treasures at ThriftCon, where more than 100 carefully selected small businesses bring clothing, streetwear, collectibles, accessories, home goods, and furniture under one roof.
Image credit: ThriftCon
The Fruitcake Express – Hop aboard the Fruitcake Express with Houston Pride Band for a holiday adventure following Santa and his elfin assistants as they search for a missing special gift.
Holiday Delights: A Boot Scootin’ Bash at The Bryan Museum – Celebrate Christmas with a Texas twist at this free, family-friendly festival on Galveston Island. Take photos with Santa, meet real-life cowboys, visit the petting zoo, play games and make holiday crafts, with live music and performances adding to the fun.
Image credit: The Bryan Museum – Galveston
East End Historical District’s Holiday Homes Tour – Get into the holiday spirit as you tour beautifully decorated Victorian-era homes during the 37th annual Holiday Homes Tour.
Dickens’ A Christmas Carol at The Grand 1894 Opera House – Rediscover Charles Dickens’ beloved holiday tale as Ebenezer Scrooge confronts the ghosts of Jacob Marley and Christmas Past, Present and Future in a story of redemption and holiday joy.
A Nice Family Christmas at Island East-End Theatre Company – Enjoy a holiday comedy filled with colorful characters, laugh-out-loud moments and a generous dose of Texas-sized Christmas spirit.
Glow and Go 5K – Light up the Woodlands Waterway at this chip-timed holiday 5K, where runners ages 10 and up can show off their best glowing holiday costumes.
Image credit: The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation
Concacaf W Championship – Head to Shell Energy Stadium for the Concacaf W Championship Final and Third Place Match, where the tournament’s top teams will battle for their final positions.
Spirit of the Season by the Shepherd School of Music – Celebrate the holidays with Rice University’s Shepherd School of Music as voice and instrumental students perform seasonal favorites alongside classic musical theater selections.
Mickey Guyton & Friends Holiday Tour – Celebrate the season with four-time Grammy nominee and country music trailblazer Mickey Guyton and special guests as they perform songs from her Feels Like Christmas album alongside festive holiday classics.
Nuncrackers at Stageworks Theatre – Join the sisters of Nunsense for Nuncrackers, a hilarious Christmas musical presented as the convent’s first TV special. Enjoy original songs like “Twelve Days Prior to Christmas,” “Santa Ain’t Comin’ to Our House,” “We Three Kings of Orient Are Us,” and “It’s Better to Give than to Receive,” alongside favorite carols, wacky convent humor, and an audience-participation “Secret Santa” sequence.
Flea by Night presented by Green Mountain Energy – Shop local at Discovery Green’s open-air Flea by Night market, where local makers, artists, plant vendors, and small businesses offer vintage finds, handmade treasures, and one-of-a-kind goods.
FORMIDABLE AZNAVOUR Concert in Houston – Celebrate the 100th anniversary of Charles Aznavour with FORMIDABLE! AZNAVOUR, a theatrical-musical journey through post-war Paris and the life, music, and remarkable international career of the legendary chanson artist, starring acclaimed performer Jules Grison.
Deck the Depot Tree Lighting Festival – Celebrate the holiday season at Tomball’s annual Deck the Depot Tree Lighting with Santa and his merry crew, free hot chocolate and treats while supplies last, cheerful music, local performances, and the season’s first “snow.”
Chris Tucker Live – Get ready for an energetic night of comedy with internationally recognized actor and comedian Chris Tucker, known for his distinctive voice and vibrant performances.
DACAMERA presents jazz trumpeter Chief Adjuah – Catch six-time Grammy Award nominee, trumpeter, and Grand Griot of New Orleans Chief Adjuah in his long-awaited Houston debut as he honors Louisiana jazz legends Big Chief Donald Harrison Sr. and Jr. while pushing musical boundaries through genre-blending fusion.
The Nutcracker – UHCL – Experience the magic of The Nutcracker through live music, breathtaking dancing, dazzling costumes, and unforgettable storytelling that no screen can replicate.
Miracle on 34th Street: The Musical – Rediscover the magic of the holidays with Miracle on 34th Street: The Musical, a beloved classic for all ages celebrating belief, generosity, and the spirit of the season. Follow the story as a department store Santa claims to be the real Kris Kringle and belief itself goes on trial.
The Night Shift Before Christmas – Join Margot for a Christmas Eve shift filled with grumpy drive-thru customers until the ghost of her late best friend warns her about spirits on the way. Watch her confront her inner Scrooge in a holiday production packed with humor and heart.
Galaxy Lights – Explore Space Center Houston after dark as Galaxy Lights returns for its eighth year, transforming the center into a larger-than-life holiday experience with immersive light displays, interactive activities, and festive surprises inspired by the wonders of space.
The Light Park Katy – Buckle up, turn up your car radio, and cruise through a mile-long holiday light show featuring millions of dazzling LEDs synchronized to high-energy music, giant illuminated tunnels, towering animated trees, and dancing reindeer.
Image credit: The Light Park
The Light Park Spring – Cruise through a mile-long holiday spectacle featuring millions of dazzling LED lights synchronized to high-energy music, with giant illuminated tunnels, towering animated trees, and dancing reindeer lighting up the route.
Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show – Put your detective skills to work while enjoying dinner as a murderer lurks somewhere in the room. You could even find yourself among the prime suspects.
Little Women: The Musical – Follow the four March sisters, ambitious Jo, traditional Meg, timid Beth, and romantic Amy, as they navigate life in Concord, Massachusetts, while their father serves in the Civil War.
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever – Watch Christmas chaos unfold when the Herdman kids, the neighborhood’s most notorious troublemakers, take over the annual church pageant and land the roles of Mary, Joseph, the Wise Men, and the Angel of the Lord.
Holiday in the Gardens 2026 – Celebrate one of Galveston Island’s biggest Christmas traditions as Moody Gardens transforms into Holiday in the Gardens with ICE LAND, sparkling lights, and festive attractions for all ages.
The Ensemble Theatre presents A Motown Christmas – Celebrate the holiday season with A Motown Christmas, a festive revue pairing traditional Christmas carols with soulful hits from Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, The Supremes, and The Jackson 5.
The Great American Trailer Park Christmas Musical – Head to Armadillo Acres for a hilariously tacky holiday musical packed with feisty townsfolk, family drama, romantic hijinks, and an unexpected visitor who threatens to derail the festivities.
Main Street Theater presents An Irish Carol – Step into a modern Dublin pub on Christmas Eve as wealthy pub owner David confronts a voice from his past, challenges in the present, and the lonely future ahead. This comic Irish homage to Dickens follows one evening that could change David’s life forever.
Drunk Christmas Carol – Watch one actor take five shots of whiskey before attempting an epic, tipsy retelling of the holiday classic, as Santa gets visited by three ghosts and faces a chance to change his ways or get totally scrooged.
A Christmas Carol – Rediscover Ebenezer Scrooge’s transformation as he encounters the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future in this timeless holiday tale
ARTECHOUSE presents Twilight Zone: Hidden Wonders of the Ocean – Discover nightly animal migrations, explore how these creatures connect to the health of the planet, and experience stunning visuals and an original score designed for adults, families, school groups, and curious ocean lovers at ARTECHOUSE’s Twilight Zone: Hidden Wonders of the Ocean.
DIY Dessert Candle Making Workshop at Studio 786 – Create your own dessert-inspired candle with whipped wax and decorative wax toppings in this guided, beginner-friendly workshop. Enjoy a creative experience perfect for date nights, friends, or a solo outing, and take home your handmade candle.
Doormat Painting Experience – Design and paint a custom doormat using stencils, vibrant paint, and step-by-step guidance, with no prior art experience needed.
First Saturday Arts Market – Explore a diverse array of original paintings, sculptures, and jewelry as Houston’s original outdoor art market resumes its 21st season.
Events in Houston for Adults – December 11 – 13, 2026
Billy Strings in concert – Catch bluegrass sensation Billy Strings live as he brings his acclaimed musicianship to the stage, drawing from a career that includes four albums, most recently Highway Prayers, released in 2024.
Holiday With The Cranes – Welcome Galveston’s returning winter sandhill cranes with a celebration of birding, wildlife and the natural beauty of the Texas Gulf Coast. The event features indoor and outdoor experiences across the island, whether you’re an experienced birder or simply looking for a different way to explore.
Downtown Conroe Christmas Parade – Celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary with an Americana Christmas theme at Downtown Conroe’s free holiday parade. Watch festive floats, marching units, local organizations, and community groups fill the streets, then head to the City of Conroe’s Toby Powell Conroe Christmas Celebration at Heritage Place.
The Snowflake Market – Browse more than 70 vendors at this seven-hour holiday market hosted by The Blossom Market and POST Houston, with handmade goods, thoughtful small gifts, stocking stuffers, and festive snacks from local makers and businesses.
Christmas Boat Lane Parade – Watch more than 60 powerboats and sailboats decked out in dazzling Christmas lights during the 65th Annual Christmas Boat Lane Parade, a beloved Clear Lake holiday tradition.
Image credit: Visit League City
Coastal Christmas Market at Galveston Island Brewing – Shop local vendors for handcrafted gifts, festive decorations and holiday surprises at this free Christmas market, complete with caroling and hot chocolate from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s Caroling for the Cause.
ArtWalk in Galveston, Texas – Explore Historic Downtown Galveston during this free, self-guided evening celebrating the island’s creative community. Galleries, artist studios, museums, nonprofits and local businesses open their doors so you can browse exhibitions, meet artists and discover local art at your own pace.
A Nice Family Christmas at Island East-End Theatre Company – Enjoy a holiday comedy filled with colorful characters, laugh-out-loud moments and a generous dose of Texas-sized Christmas spirit.
The Woodlands Winter Makers Market – Shop handcrafted gifts, goods and artwork from local makers while enjoying food trucks, reindeer games and festive family activities. Kids can also get KidZone wristbands for attractions such as a trackless train, crafts, putt-putt and inflatables.
Joey Diaz: 62 & Still Slinging – Get ready for an unfiltered night of comedy with Joey Diaz, whose screen credits include The Many Saints of Newark, Taxi, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, The Longest Yard, Spider-Man 2, Everybody Hates Chris, Grudge Match, and My Name Is Earl.
Bayou City-Crescent City Christmas – Celebrate the holidays Gulf Coast-style as Jazz Houston Orchestra, led by Vincent Gardner, joins New Orleans favorites Doreen Ketchens and Herlin Riley for a lively musical celebration. Enjoy soulful holiday classics, foot-stomping Crescent City favorites, New Orleans funk and second-line rhythms, and Houston’s signature groove and big-band brilliance.
Carols on the Green – Celebrate the magic of the season with Houston Grand Opera as opera classics, beloved holiday favorites, and joyful sing-alongs fill the air with festive cheer.
Image credit: Discovery Green
Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox: The Future is Vintage World Tour – Travel through 100 years of vintage popular music as Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox reimagines familiar sounds and styles in a lively live show.
Image credit: Postmodern Jukebox
The Basement Yard Podcast Live Tour – Join longtime friends and podcasting duo Joe Santagato and Frank Alvarez in Houston for a live edition of The Basement Yard, packed with their signature unfiltered conversations, outrageous stories, hot takes, and fan-favorite banter.
Houston Symphony presents “Ho-Ho-Holiday” – Get into the holiday spirit with this family-friendly concert featuring beloved Christmas carols, sparkling decorations, and a special visit from Santa Claus.
Houston Symphony presents “Very Merry Pops” – Step into a musical winter wonderland with Houston’s ultimate holiday music tradition, featuring treasured carols, festive sing-alongs, and a visit from Santa Claus.
Nuncrackers at Stageworks Theatre – Join the sisters of Nunsense for Nuncrackers, a hilarious Christmas musical presented as the convent’s first TV special. Enjoy original songs like “Twelve Days Prior to Christmas,” “Santa Ain’t Comin’ to Our House,” “We Three Kings of Orient Are Us,” and “It’s Better to Give than to Receive,” alongside favorite carols, wacky convent humor, and an audience-participation “Secret Santa” sequence.
The Nutcracker – UHCL – Experience the magic of The Nutcracker through live music, breathtaking dancing, dazzling costumes, and unforgettable storytelling that no screen can replicate.
Trans-Siberian Orchestra – The Ghosts of Christmas Eve: The Best of TSO and More – Celebrate Trans-Siberian Orchestra’s landmark 30th anniversary with a major winter tour featuring a spectacular reimagining of The Ghosts of Christmas Eve.
Image credit: Trans-Siberian Orchestra
Bach Society Houston presents Bach in December: Hearts and Voices – Find a moment of calm amid the holiday rush with two beloved Bach cantatas, Nun komm, der Heiden Heiland, BWV 61, and Herz und Mund und Tat und Leben, BWV 147, performed live and unamplified.
Houston Hoopfest: Texas vs. Miami, Florida State vs. Texas A&M, UH vs. LSU – Catch the inaugural Houston Hoopfest featuring six storied college basketball programs in four high-stakes matchups. Watch Florida State face Texas A&M and Texas take on Miami, then cheer on Houston’s men’s and women’s teams as the Cougars and Lady Cougars meet LSU and the Lady Tigers in a special doubleheader.
Flea by Night presented by Green Mountain Energy – Shop local at Discovery Green’s open-air Flea by Night market, where local makers, artists, plant vendors, and small businesses offer vintage finds, handmade treasures, and one-of-a-kind goods.
Miracle on 34th Street: The Musical – Rediscover the magic of the holidays with Miracle on 34th Street: The Musical, a beloved classic for all ages celebrating belief, generosity, and the spirit of the season. Follow the story as a department store Santa claims to be the real Kris Kringle and belief itself goes on trial.
Galaxy Lights – Explore Space Center Houston after dark as Galaxy Lights returns for its eighth year, transforming the center into a larger-than-life holiday experience with immersive light displays, interactive activities, and festive surprises inspired by the wonders of space.
The Light Park Katy – Buckle up, turn up your car radio, and cruise through a mile-long holiday light show featuring millions of dazzling LEDs synchronized to high-energy music, giant illuminated tunnels, towering animated trees, and dancing reindeer.
The Night Shift Before Christmas – Join Margot for a Christmas Eve shift filled with grumpy drive-thru customers until the ghost of her late best friend warns her about spirits on the way. Watch her confront her inner Scrooge in a holiday production packed with humor and heart.
Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show – Put your detective skills to work while enjoying dinner as a murderer lurks somewhere in the room. You could even find yourself among the prime suspects.
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever – Watch Christmas chaos unfold when the Herdman kids, the neighborhood’s most notorious troublemakers, take over the annual church pageant and land the roles of Mary, Joseph, the Wise Men, and the Angel of the Lord.
Little Women: The Musical – Follow the four March sisters, ambitious Jo, traditional Meg, timid Beth, and romantic Amy, as they navigate life in Concord, Massachusetts, while their father serves in the Civil War.
Holiday in the Gardens 2026 – Celebrate one of Galveston Island’s biggest Christmas traditions as Moody Gardens transforms into Holiday in the Gardens with ICE LAND, sparkling lights, and festive attractions for all ages.
The Ensemble Theatre presents A Motown Christmas – Celebrate the holiday season with A Motown Christmas, a festive revue pairing traditional Christmas carols with soulful hits from Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, The Supremes, and The Jackson 5.
The Great American Trailer Park Christmas Musical – Head to Armadillo Acres for a hilariously tacky holiday musical packed with feisty townsfolk, family drama, romantic hijinks, and an unexpected visitor who threatens to derail the festivities.
A Christmas Carol – Rediscover Ebenezer Scrooge’s transformation as he encounters the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future in this timeless holiday tale.
ARTECHOUSE presents Twilight Zone: Hidden Wonders of the Ocean – Discover nightly animal migrations, explore how these creatures connect to the health of the planet, and experience stunning visuals and an original score designed for adults, families, school groups, and curious ocean lovers at ARTECHOUSE’s Twilight Zone: Hidden Wonders of the Ocean.
DIY Dessert Candle Making Workshop at Studio 786 – Create your own dessert-inspired candle with whipped wax and decorative wax toppings in this guided, beginner-friendly workshop. Enjoy a creative experience perfect for date nights, friends, or a solo outing, and take home your handmade candle.
Doormat Painting Experience – Design and paint a custom doormat using stencils, vibrant paint, and step-by-step guidance, with no prior art experience needed.
Drunk Christmas Carol – Watch one actor take five shots of whiskey before attempting an epic, tipsy retelling of the holiday classic, as Santa gets visited by three ghosts and faces a chance to change his ways or get totally scrooged.
Main Street Theater presents An Irish Carol – Step into a modern Dublin pub on Christmas Eve as wealthy pub owner David confronts a voice from his past, challenges in the present, and the lonely future ahead. This comic Irish homage to Dickens follows one evening that could change David’s life forever.
Events in Houston for Adults – December 18 – 20, 2026
Handel’s Messiah by the Houston Symphony – Make a beloved Christmas tradition part of your holiday season with Handel’s Messiah, a stirring performance filled with beautiful arias and exuberant refrains. Listen for the iconic “Hallelujah” Chorus as this timeless musical masterpiece comes to life.
The Boho Market – Spend a festive morning shopping small at this free holiday market at Creekside Park Village Green, featuring local vendors, holiday photo ops, live music and a Coffee & Cars show.
Galveston Santa Hustle – Get moving along the Texas coast at this festive race, where runners and walkers can sport Santa hats, beards, ugly Christmas sweaters and other holiday gear.
Image credit: Santa Hustle Race Series
Houston Urban Nutcracker 2026 – See a fresh, Texas-sized take on The Nutcracker as Clare travels through the Bayou City in this production celebrating Houston’s cultural diversity and love of the arts.
Joyful Fanfares: Holiday Brass Spectacular – Enjoy a festive concert starring the Houston Symphony’s world-class brass section as they fill the stage with classical works and popular holiday favorites.
Grits & Eggs Podcast: Coming Thru America Tour – Catch the Grits & Eggs Podcast live in Houston as host Deante Kyle brings the show’s humor, conversations, and cultural commentary to the stage alongside Big “Ice Cup” Kat. Hear them tackle hot topics, share stories, and interact with the audience throughout the night.
The Unauthorized Hallmark(ish) Parody Musical – Follow Holly, an overworked big-city executive who returns to her quirky hometown to save Christmas, only to find herself juggling an old flame, a looming corporate merger, a cookie contest conspiracy, and a moose on the loose.
Nuncrackers at Stageworks Theatre – Join the sisters of Nunsense for Nuncrackers, a hilarious Christmas musical presented as the convent’s first TV special. Enjoy original songs like “Twelve Days Before Christmas,” “Santa Ain’t Comin’ to Our House,” “We Three Kings of Orient Are Us,” and “It’s Better to Give than to Receive,” alongside favorite carols, wacky convent humor, and an audience-participation “Secret Santa” sequence.
A Merry Rockin’ Christmas – Get into the holiday spirit as Michael Cavanaugh puts a rock-and-roll spin on the season, blending modern favorites like “Last Christmas” and “Wonderful Christmastime” with classics including “Jingle Bell Rock,” “Winter Wonderland,” and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.”
NieR: Orchestra Concert – Enter the expanded musical world of the NieR series with NieR: Orchestra Concert 12026 [ YoRHa ], a brand-new production from AWR Music Productions and SQUARE ENIX following the groundbreaking 2024 concert.
PBR Houston: PBR Pendleton Whisky Velocity Tour – Feel the adrenaline at Cooper Tires PBR Houston as the Pendleton Whisky Velocity Tour brings two days of bull-riding action, featuring 40 top riders taking on some of the sport’s fiercest bulls in the most dangerous eight seconds in sports.
The Nutcracker – UHCL – Experience the magic of The Nutcracker through live music, breathtaking dancing, dazzling costumes, and unforgettable storytelling that no screen can replicate.
Flea by Night presented by Green Mountain Energy – Shop local at Discovery Green’s open-air Flea by Night market, where local makers, artists, plant vendors, and small businesses offer vintage finds, handmade treasures, and one-of-a-kind goods.
Who’s Holiday! – Get ready for a wildly funny, adults-only Christmas comedy that revisits Cindy Lou Who as a grown woman living in a run-down trailer in the snowy hills of Mount Crumpit. As she recounts the Christmas Eve she first met the Grinch, between bong rips, discover the twisted turns her life has taken in this irreverent holiday story.
Miracle on 34th Street: The Musical – Rediscover the magic of the holidays with Miracle on 34th Street: The Musical, a beloved classic for all ages celebrating belief, generosity, and the spirit of the season. Follow the story as a department store Santa claims to be the real Kris Kringle and belief itself goes on trial.
Galaxy Lights – Explore Space Center Houston after dark as Galaxy Lights returns for its eighth year, transforming the center into a larger-than-life holiday experience with immersive light displays, interactive activities, and festive surprises inspired by the wonders of space.
The Night Shift Before Christmas – Join Margot for a Christmas Eve shift filled with grumpy drive-thru customers until the ghost of her late best friend warns her about spirits on the way. Watch her confront her inner Scrooge in a holiday production packed with humor and heart.
The Light Park Katy – Buckle up, turn up your car radio, and cruise through a mile-long holiday light show featuring millions of dazzling LEDs synchronized to high-energy music, giant illuminated tunnels, towering animated trees, and dancing reindeer.
The Light Park Spring – Cruise through a mile-long holiday spectacle featuring millions of dazzling LED lights synchronized to high-energy music, with giant illuminated tunnels, towering animated trees, and dancing reindeer lighting up the route.
Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show – Put your detective skills to work while enjoying dinner as a murderer lurks somewhere in the room. You could even find yourself among the prime suspects.
The Great American Trailer Park Christmas Musical – Head to Armadillo Acres for a hilariously tacky holiday musical packed with feisty townsfolk, family drama, romantic hijinks, and an unexpected visitor who threatens to derail the festivities.
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever – Watch Christmas chaos unfold when the Herdman kids, the neighborhood’s most notorious troublemakers, take over the annual church pageant and land the roles of Mary, Joseph, the Wise Men, and the Angel of the Lord.
A Christmas Carol – Rediscover Ebenezer Scrooge’s transformation as he encounters the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future in this timeless holiday tale.
ARTECHOUSE presents Twilight Zone: Hidden Wonders of the Ocean – Discover nightly animal migrations, explore how these creatures connect to the health of the planet, and experience stunning visuals and an original score designed for adults, families, school groups, and curious ocean lovers at ARTECHOUSE’s Twilight Zone: Hidden Wonders of the Ocean.
DIY Dessert Candle Making Workshop at Studio 786 – Create your own dessert-inspired candle with whipped wax and decorative wax toppings in this guided, beginner-friendly workshop. Enjoy a creative experience perfect for date nights, friends, or a solo outing, and take home your handmade candle.
Doormat Painting Experience – Design and paint a custom doormat using stencils, vibrant paint, and step-by-step guidance, with no prior art experience needed.
Drunk Christmas Carol – Watch one actor take five shots of whiskey before attempting an epic, tipsy retelling of the holiday classic, as Santa gets visited by three ghosts and faces a chance to change his ways or get totally scrooged.
Main Street Theater presents An Irish Carol – Step into a modern Dublin pub on Christmas Eve as wealthy pub owner David confronts a voice from his past, challenges in the present, and the lonely future ahead. This comic Irish homage to Dickens follows one evening that could change David’s life forever.
The Ensemble Theatre presents A Motown Christmas – Celebrate the holiday season with A Motown Christmas, a festive revue pairing traditional Christmas carols with soulful hits from Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, The Supremes, and The Jackson 5.
Holiday in the Gardens 2026 – Celebrate one of Galveston Island’s biggest Christmas traditions as Moody Gardens transforms into Holiday in the Gardens with ICE LAND, sparkling lights, and festive attractions for all ages.
Events in Houston for Adults – December 25 – 27, 2026
Love Actually in Concert – Fall in love with the holidays all over again as Love Actually plays in its entirety on a full-size screen while a live orchestra performs the soundtrack, featuring Craig Armstrong’s music alongside favorites like Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You” and “Love Is All Around.”
Shen Yun – Journey through 5,000 years of China’s divinely inspired culture in a spectacular performance that brings ancient dynastic legends and inspiring modern-day stories to life.
Image credit: Shen Yun
Christmas Day Brunch at Moody Gardens – Make Christmas Day extra special with a grand holiday brunch at the Moody Gardens Convention Center, featuring a holiday bakery display, made-to-order omelets, winter salads, soups, antipasti, and so much more.
Christmas Day Evening Buffet at Café in the Park – Settle in for a Christmas Day feast at Café in the Park inside the Moody Gardens Hotel, with holiday entrées such as pan-seared Gulf snapper, beef tenderloin, roasted turkey breast, stuffed chicken, and more.
Galaxy Lights – Explore Space Center Houston after dark as Galaxy Lights returns for its eighth year, transforming the center into a larger-than-life holiday experience with immersive light displays, interactive activities, and festive surprises inspired by the wonders of space.
The Light Park Katy – Buckle up, turn up your car radio, and cruise through a mile-long holiday light show featuring millions of dazzling LEDs synchronized to high-energy music, giant illuminated tunnels, towering animated trees, and dancing reindeer.
The Light Park Spring – Cruise through a mile-long holiday spectacle featuring millions of dazzling LED lights synchronized to high-energy music, with giant illuminated tunnels, towering animated trees, and dancing reindeer lighting up the route.
Who’s Holiday! – Get ready for a wildly funny, adults-only Christmas comedy that revisits Cindy Lou Who as a grown woman living in a run-down trailer in the snowy hills of Mount Crumpit. As she recounts the Christmas Eve she first met the Grinch, between bong rips, discover the twisted turns her life has taken in this irreverent holiday story.
A Christmas Carol – Rediscover Ebenezer Scrooge’s transformation as he encounters the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future in this timeless holiday tale.
ARTECHOUSE presents Twilight Zone: Hidden Wonders of the Ocean – Discover nightly animal migrations, explore how these creatures connect to the health of the planet, and experience stunning visuals and an original score designed for adults, families, school groups, and curious ocean lovers at ARTECHOUSE’s Twilight Zone: Hidden Wonders of the Ocean.
DIY Dessert Candle Making Workshop at Studio 786 – Create your own dessert-inspired candle with whipped wax and decorative wax toppings in this guided, beginner-friendly workshop. Enjoy a creative experience perfect for date nights, friends, or a solo outing, and take home your handmade candle.
Doormat Painting Experience – Design and paint a custom doormat using stencils, vibrant paint, and step-by-step guidance, with no prior art experience needed.
Drunk Christmas Carol – Watch one actor take five shots of whiskey before attempting an epic, tipsy retelling of the holiday classic, as Santa gets visited by three ghosts and faces a chance to change his ways or get totally scrooged.
The Great American Trailer Park Christmas Musical – Head to Armadillo Acres for a hilariously tacky holiday musical packed with feisty townsfolk, family drama, romantic hijinks, and an unexpected visitor who threatens to derail the festivities.
Holiday in the Gardens 2026 – Celebrate one of Galveston Island’s biggest Christmas traditions as Moody Gardens transforms into Holiday in the Gardens with ICE LAND, sparkling lights, and festive attractions for all ages.
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.
- A Houston Holiday Bucket List: December 2026 Events in Houston for Adults - October 24, 2026
- Día de los Muertos Houston 2026: Best Festivals & Parades - October 24, 2026
- Guide to the 2026 Texas City Music Festival | Free Live Music & Local Fun - October 24, 2026
