Last Updated On – 15th December, 2025

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The best Things to do in Houston this Weekend (December 19 – December 21) include Houston Flea by Night, Pentatonix in Concert, and more!

I’ve rounded up the top events and activities happening across the city—from festivals and outdoor fun to live shows and family-friendly picks. Scroll down for my picks — or use the links above to skip to your favorite section!

Stay on top of the best weekend events in Houston with our always up-to-date guide to Things to Do in Houston this Weekend! Published every Monday and updated throughout the week! 

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Editor’s Note: We update this guide each week with verified listings from trusted sources. Still, details can change — please confirm with the event organizer before heading out.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you click and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

We only recommend experiences we truly believe in! Curious how we choose these events? Here’s our process

Christmas Lights are shining brightly across Houston! Check out our capstone article on Best Christmas Lights 2025 in Houston.

And if you want detailed guides on the best neighborhoods, check out our posts on River Oaks Christmas Lights, Pecan Grove Christmas Lights, Lights in the Heights 2025, Prestonwood Forest Christmas Lights, Shephard Park Plaza Lights, Candy Cane Lane Christmas Lights and Tanglewood Christmas Lights

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Top Pick For Things to do in Houston this Weekend – Green Mountain Energy Ice at Discovery Green

Houston’s premier outdoor ice rink, powered by 100% renewable energy, is open all season long! Glide across the ice beneath the city skyline, enjoy themed events, and celebrate the holiday season. This annual tradition offers 75-minute skate sessions for a festive, unforgettable experience in the heart of downtown.

When: November 21, 2025 – February 16, 2026 | 5 am – 11 pm
Where: Discovery Green, 1500 McKinney St., Houston, TX 77010
How Much: $18 plus tax (Includes skate rental and 75 minutes of skating)

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Things to do in Houston this Weekend – Free Events in Houston (December 19 – 21)

Holiday Flea by Night at Discovery Green

Look for unique finds at the Holiday Flea by Night at Discovery Green on Saturday evenings leading up to Christmas. This open-air market will bring together local makers, artists, plant vendors, and small businesses offering vintage finds, handmade pieces, unique creations, and one-of-a-kind local goods.

When: Saturday, December 20, 2025 | 6 pm – 10 pm
Where: Discovery Green, 1500 McKinney St, Houston, TX 77010
How Much: Free

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Groundswell’s Winter Wowza at Galveston’s Own Farmers Market

Celebrate the season at Winter Wowza, Groundswell’s festive finale at Galveston’s Own Farmers Market for 2025. The market will be filled with holiday cheer, unique gifts, and activities for all ages, creating a lively seasonal atmosphere.

Also expect photo opportunities with Galveston Santa Claus, a gingerbread house workshop from Build Galveston, a holiday haul raffle with a standout gift basket, and a limited-edition Groundswell holiday “ugly sweater” t-shirt for the first 100 guests to arrive.

When: Sunday, December 21, 2025 | 9 am – 12 pm
Where: The Depot on Market, 3304 Market St, Galveston, TX 77550
How Much: Free

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Things to do in Houston this Weekend – Friday Events (19th of December)

H-Town Holiday Lights at Discovery Green 2025

Celebrate the season under the stars! Visit H-Town Holiday Lights presented by PNC at Discovery Green for a dazzling light display set to Houston music, expertly synchronized and artistically designed. The show takes place along the park’s Brown Foundation Promenade and is part of the broader holiday festivities in downtown Houston my family never misses.

When: Nov. 21, 2025 – Jan. 4, 2026 | 6:00 pm – 11:00 pm nightly
Where: Brown Foundation Promenade at Discovery Green (1500 McKinney St., Houston, TX 77010) 
How Much: Tickets required — must be purchased online in advance.

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Houston Symphony: Elf in Concert at Jones Hall

Immerse yourself in a festive movie-and-music experience as the Houston Symphony brings Elf to life at Jones Hall in Downtown Houston. The beloved Christmas comedy will light up the big screen while the orchestra performs John Debney’s full score live, perfectly synced to the film.

When: Friday, December 19 – 21, 2025 | 7:30 pm
Where: Jones Hall for the Performing Arts, 615 Louisiana St, Houston, TX 77002
How Much: Starts at $29

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The Christmas Revels: A Scottish Celebration of the Winter Solstice

Step into 18th-century Scotland with The Christmas Revels: A Scottish Celebration of the Winter Solstice, a festive stage production that brings historic holiday traditions to life.

Set in a small village in the northwestern Highlands, the performance will capture the spirit of Hogmanay, the Scottish celebration marking the passing of the Old Year and the arrival of the New.

The show will feature a lively Hogmanay ceilidh with traditional folk ballads, Highland dances—including the famous Argyll Broadswords Dance—and poems by Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns. Music will come alive through a traditional Scottish band led by Al Cofrin, Texas-based bagpiper Richard Kean, and a professional brass quintet.

Dancers from Houston’s St. Thomas’ Episcopal School Highland Dance program will also join the festivities, creating an immersive holiday experience rich with Scottish heritage.

When: Friday, December 19 – 21, 2025 | 7:30 pm
Where: MATCH – Midtown Arts and Theater Center, Houston, 3400 Main St, Houston, TX 77002
How Much: Starts at $18

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Who’s Holiday!

Celebrate the season with a grown-up twist at Who’s Holiday! Revisit Cindy Lou Who, now all grown up and living in a snowy trailer on Mount Crumpit, as she humorously reflects on the night she first met the Grinch and the unexpected turns her life has taken.

Houston favorite Chaney Moore stars in this adults-only, one-woman show, bringing sharp wit and heartfelt storytelling to the Garden Theatre stage. This show is recommended for ages 16+ due to adult language, drug use, and mature themes.

When: Friday, December 19 – 21, 2025 
Where: MATCH – Midtown Arts and Theater Center, Houston, 3400 Main St, Houston, TX 77002
How Much: $25 – $30

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ARTECHOUSE Holiday Special

Experience the holiday season reimagined through art and technology during this three-week ARTECHOUSE Holiday Special. This limited engagement brings Spectacular Factory and Tingle Bells together in one multi-sensory event designed for the entire family, blending vivid visuals, dynamic soundscapes, and touch-based moments into a single festive experience.

Each installation invites you to explore a space where creativity and innovation shape the celebration, turning familiar holiday themes into something fresh and engaging for visitors of all ages.

When: Friday, December 19, 2025 – January 4, 2026 | 10 am – 10 pm
Where: ARTECHOUSE, 600 W 6th St, Houston, TX 77007
How Much: Starts at $15

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Christmas Village at Bayou Bend

Come with me and step into a winter wonderland at Christmas Village at Bayou Bend, presented by the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. Ima Hogg’s historic mansion transforms into an immersive holiday theater with live actors, theatrical effects, and festive decorations that bring the season to life.

You can take photos with Santa nightly through December 23, enjoy carolers, a hand-crafted model train, animated projections, and fun activities like a cotton snowball toss, reindeer games, and sledding on a faux-snow slope.

New York-based gingerbread artist and Guinness World Record holder Jon Lovitch will also create a 500+ piece gingerbread village sculpture, while the Weihnachtsfilm Festival Berlin screens family-friendly short films in the new winter theater.

Landry’s adds to the experience with artisanal pizzas, charcuterie boards, select wines, seasonal drinks, and Santa’s Sweet Shop featuring holiday cookies, caramel popcorn, hot chocolate, and more.

When: Friday, December 19 – 30, 2025 
Where: Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens, Museum of Fine Arts Houston, 6003 Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77007
How Much: $10 – $18 | Free for kids 4 and under

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A Long Night by Matt Elliott & Debra Schultz

“A Long Night” places you inside a family strained by relationship-ending secrets and truths they’ve kept buried. When unexpected visitors arrive on Christmas Eve, their carefully maintained façade starts to split open, and what emerges will push the night into unsettling territory that shares the gripping pull you often find in free and fun events in Houston.

This psychological horror play will unravel the cost of silence, the fallout of greed, and the dangerous ways trust can distort. Its twisted and intense pace will move far from the warm holiday tone and leave you with a story that lingers long after the final moment fades.

When: Friday, December 19 – 20, 2025 
Where: Spring Street Studios, 1824 Spring St #4056, Houston, TX 77007
How Much: $15 – $20

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Katy Asian Town: Explore, Eat & Save with the KAT Fun Passport

Celebrate the holidays at Katy Asian Town with the KAT Fun Passport and enjoy flavors, family activities, and exclusive savings!

For just $10, get a passport offering over $800 in deals at top restaurants, dessert spots, entertainment venues, and lifestyle services throughout Katy Asian Town & Marketplace. The passport unlocks special offers perfect for families, couples, and visitors of all ages, making it an ideal way to explore this vibrant cultural district. 

Pick up your KAT Fun Passport at the UMRE Office (23119 Colonial Pkwy A1) and start saving! Passports are valid through December 31, 2025, with an optional Buy 3, Get 1 Free bundle available for groups. 

When: Friday, December 19 – 31, 2025 
Where: Various locations in Katy Asian Town
How Much: $10

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The Polar Express

I can’t wait to hop on this magical train ride to the North Pole, where hot cocoa, cookies, and the timeless story of The Polar Express await.

As you journey through the story, live entertainment brings the beloved characters to life, making the experience even more special. The hour-long ride wraps up with a magical moment as Santa himself hands out gifts to every passenger. Don’t forget to wear your pajamas to make the experience even cozier!

When: Friday, December 19 – 23, 2025
Where: Galveston Railroad Museum, 2602 Santa Fe Pl, Galveston, TX 77550
How Much: Starts at $55

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Houston Ballet’s Nutcracker

Join me and dive into the holiday spirit with a truly enchanting experience at Houston Ballet’s The Nutcracker. From the lively Stahlbaum Christmas party, you’ll follow Clara, Drosselmeyer, and the Prince on a magical adventure, sweeping through the snowy landscapes to the festive Kingdom of Sweets.

Be transported into a world of wonder where you’ll witness a reunion with the Sugar Plum Fairy in the clouds, surrounded by intricate sets and hundreds of characters. It’s a holiday classic that combines breathtaking beauty with jaw-dropping spectacle, making it a must-see for all ages.

When: Friday, December 19 – 28, 2025 
Where: Wortham Center, 501 Texas Ave, Houston, TX 77002
How Much: Starts at $44

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Jingle & Mingle Christmas Pop-Up

The Jingle & Mingle Christmas Pop-Up at Lyric Markets is your go-to spot for holiday cheer. Enjoy a festive atmosphere with incredible photo opportunities, seasonal cocktails, and delicious food that’ll have you feeling merry and bright.

Make sure to return each week for new surprises that keep the holiday spirit alive throughout the season! It’s a celebration you won’t want to miss.

When: Friday, December 19 – 31, 2025 | 11 am onwards
Where: Lyric Market, 411 Smith St, Houston, TX 77002
How Much: No cover

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It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play

Catch It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play and experience this timeless holiday classic in a whole new way. Set in a 1940s radio station, the show features live sound effects, vintage commercial breaks, and a talented cast that brings George Bailey, Mary Hatch, and Clarence the Angel to life on stage.

This live broadcast perfectly captures the heartwarming story of hope, community, and redemption, taking you on an unforgettable journey through Bedford Falls that will fill your heart with holiday magic.

When: Friday, December 19 – 28, 2025 
Where: Stages, 800 Rosine St, Houston, TX 77019
How Much: Starts at $30

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Alley Theatre presents The Night Shift Before Christmas

Get ready for a hilarious and heartwarming holiday experience with The Night Shift Before Christmas at Alley Theatre. Follow Margot through her chaotic Christmas Eve shift as she handles grumpy drive-thru customers—until her dead best friend, Jackie Marley, shows up to warn her about a visit from spirits.

As the night unfolds, Margot must face the Scrooge-like tendencies she’s developed in this festive and funny tale. 

When: Friday, December 19 – 28, 2025 
Where: Alley Theatre, 615 Texas Ave, Houston, TX 77002
How Much: Starts at $45

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Ice Village at Rice Village

Celebrate the holiday season in style at Ice Village in Rice Village! The district transforms into a winter wonderland with its first-ever ice-skating rink, located across from Starbucks and Birkenstock. Skate under the stars, snap festive photos, and enjoy the shopping, dining, and holiday vibes that make Rice Village one of Houston’s top destinations.

Throughout the season, join in on themed nights like Music Mondays, Pajama Skate Nights, Family Fridays, and Ugly Sweater Sundays.

Don’t forget to stop by for photos with Santa on select dates from November 30 to December 21. 

When: Friday, December 19, 2025 – January 4, 2026
Where: Rice Village, 2405 Amherst Street, Houston, TX 77005
How Much: Starts at $22

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Astros Light Up the Park

Get ready for a one-of-a-kind holiday experience at Astros Light Up the Park! Follow a magical path of dazzling lights and festive music as you stroll through the stadium concourse, down to the service level, and all the way across the field. This celebration features vibrant Astros and Houston-themed displays, adding a special local touch to the holiday spirit.

Along the way, snap photos with Santa and Orbit, enjoy a holiday menu crafted with Aramark, and explore a transformed Astros Team Store filled with exclusive holiday merchandise and gift options. 

When: Friday, December 19, 2025 – January 4, 2026 
Where: Daikin Park, 501 Crawford St, Houston, TX 77002
How Much: Starts at $25

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POST Winter Wonderlawn

Step into the holiday spirit with me at POST Winter Wonderlawn on Skylawn, where the season comes alive with thousands of twinkling lights, two towering 25-foot Christmas trees, and vibrant holiday décor that sets the perfect festive mood.

Wander through candy cane forests, explore Santa’s village, and admire brand-new Christmas animal sculptures. Then, treat yourself to seasonal goodies from Myoa Cookies, Gracie’s Grazing Boards, and Chai House while soaking in the cheerful atmosphere.

Don’t miss Santa Sundays, where you can meet Santa and snap a special holiday photo from 5-8PM.

When: Friday, December 19, 2025 – January 11, 2026 
Where: POST Houston, 401 Franklin St, Houston, TX 77201
How Much: $8 – $19

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Green Mountain Energy Ice

Glide beneath the glittering lights of downtown Houston and discover holiday magic at Discovery Green when you visit the Green Mountain Energy Ice.

You can take advantage of Cheap Skate Mondays on select dates (5-10 p.m.) where skating is half off at $9 plus tax per person, including skate rental. Additionally, you can enjoy a variety of themed events like DJ Skate Night Saturdays, Skating with Santa!, Wine Down Wednesdays, and Kids Skate Free Thursdays for even more festive fun.

When: Friday, December 19, 2025 – February 16, 2026
Where: Discovery Green, 1500 McKinney St, Houston, TX 77010
How Much: $18

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TXU Energy presents Zoo Lights

Unearth new worlds of whimsy and wonder when you spend your holiday at TXU Energy presents Zoo Lights!

This holiday lights experience invites you to explore the fantastical and let your imagination run wild as you adventure through the Zoo as you’ve never seen it before. From fanciful bursts of color in our Enchanted Forest to the dazzling sights at Iridescent Immersion, there’s no end to the delights waiting for you!

When: Friday, December 19, 2025 – January 4, 2026 | 5:30 pm – 10:30 pm., last entry at 9:30 pm
Where: Garage HTX, 1201 Oliver St #106, Houston, TX 77007
How Much: Starts at $30.95

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Narnia The Musical

Transport yourself into a world of talking animals and mythical beings with Narnia The Musical. This beloved tale comes to life as Aslan, the great lion, returns in Narnia’s time of need, guiding children from our world through an inspiring journey of courage, selflessness, and wonder, all set to soaring, spirited songs.

When: Friday, December 19 – 23, 2025 
Where: A.D. Players Theatre, 5420 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77056
How Much: Starts at $10

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Drunk Christmas Carol

Get ready for the riotous Drunk Christmas Carol by The Drunk Shakespeare Society! Watch as one brave actor downs five shots of whiskey and then attempts to star in an epic retelling of the greatest holiday story of all time.

Will the holiday season’s hottest silver fox change his ways after being visited by three ghosts, or will he get completely scrooged by the spirits (the alcoholic kind)? 

When: Friday, December 19 – 28, 2025 | 4 pm – 8 pm
Where: Emerald Theatre,  412 Travis St, Houston, TX 77002
How Much: Starts at $49

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Georgiana and Kitty: Christmas at Pemberley

Catch the final installment of the Christmas at Pemberley trilogy, Georgiana and Kitty: Christmas at Pemberley, at Main Street Theater. Join Mr. Darcy’s younger sister, Georgiana, and the youngest Bennet sister, Kitty, as they impatiently await the arrival of Georgiana’s shy, secret correspondent, Henry Grey.

When Henry is met by the unwelcoming presence of Mr. Darcy at the family holiday gathering, Georgiana fears her chance at love will be lost. Watch the story unfold and discover how love always manages to find its way at Pemberley.

When: Friday, December 19 – 21, 2025 
Where: Main Street Theatre, 2540 Times Blvd, Houston, TX 77005
How Much: $45 – $64

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Classic Christmas Alpine Adventure Lights Up Houston

Skip the usual post-feast routine and dive into pure holiday magic right after Thanksgiving at Coca-Cola’s wildly popular Classic Christmas, now featuring a brand-new Alpine Adventure theme at Katy Mills!

This immersive experience, a must-do among things to do Thanksgiving week in Houston, takes you into 90,000 square feet of holiday wonder with millions of twinkling lights forming dazzling sculptures and magical scenes.

There will also be tons of fun and exciting holiday activities. You can glide across real outdoor ice at the skating rink, then take on the expanded Slip N Slide Summit, which features thrilling snow slides built from real ice, including challenging Black Diamond lanes and family-friendly beginner runs.

Throughout the adventure, you can also catch live holiday programming like festive bands, carolers, Christmas karaoke, and ugly sweater contests, while the Trailside Treats station serves up Coca-Cola products, hot cocoa, holiday cocktails, and seasonal snacks to keep you energized.

When: Friday, December 19 – 28, 2025 | 5:30 pm – 10:30 pm
Where: Katy Mills Mall, 5000 Katy Mills Cir, Katy, TX 77494
How Much: $21 – $29

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Houston Marriott Presents Winter Lights

Join me and get ready for the return of Texas Winter Lights, the dazzling poolside tradition at the Marriott Marquis Houston! You can enjoy thousands of twinkling lights as you float along the iconic Texas-shaped lazy river at the Altitude Rooftop & Pool.

Stroll through incredible, Instagram-worthy light displays, discover over two dozen hot cocktails at the bar, or book a themed cabana for a cozy winter drink. Also, don’t miss the live music and holiday movie showings right next to the pool for an unforgettable festive experience.

When: Friday, December 19 – 31, 2025 | 5 pm – 10 pm
Where: Marriott Marquis Houston Downtown, 1777 Walker St, Houston, TX 77010
How Much: Starts at $24.47

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Holidaze at GreenStreet

Step into Holidaze at GreenStreet this holiday season for an over-the-top, immersive experience across three festive floors!

Explore interactive photo moments like the dazzling disco-covered sleigh, snap a selfie at the “Resting Grinch Face” mirror wall, or even check out the elf-inspired candy cane jail. Afterwards, raise a toast to the season across three spectacular pop-up bars: Hard Nog Life, Tinsel & Tonic, and Santa After Hours.

When: Friday, December 19, 2025 – January 4, 2026 | 8 am onwards
Where: GreenStreet, 1201 Fannin St, Houston, TX 77002
How Much: Free

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Radiant Nature

Experience magic this holiday season at Houston Botanic Garden’s annual Radiant Nature display and discover a unique wonderland of vibrant, gently glowing lanterns set perfectly among the Garden’s diverse plant life.

The 2025-26 show is open for 59 nights between Nov. 14 and Feb. 22, running Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, along with select weeknights. Enjoy a $2 discount on Thursday and Sunday nights throughout the run.

When: Friday, December 19, 2025 – February 22, 2026 | 6 pm – 10 pm
Where: Houston Botanic Garden, 1 Botanic Lane, Houston, TX 77017
How Much: $28.50

Skating with the Santa! on the Ice

Join Santa on the Ice at Discovery Green this Saturday! All ages are welcome at the rink for a cheerful afternoon on the ice.

Each week, a different Santa Claus will be on hand to skate, greet guests, and share the fun.

When: Saturday, December 20, 2025 
Where: Discovery Green, 1500 McKinney St, Houston, TX 77010
How Much: $18

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Candlelight Concert: Christmas Carols on Strings

Immerse yourself in a cozy, candlelit concert experience as Fever presents Christmas Carols on Strings in the hangar at Resurrection MCC in the Heights. 

During this 60-minute performance, the Listeso quartet will play beloved Christmas carols including “Carol of the Bells,” “Silent Night,” and “Do You Hear What I Hear,” all brought to life beneath the soft glow of candlelight.

When: Saturday, December 20, 2025 | 6:30 pm
Where: Resurrection MCC, 2025 W 11th St, Houston, TX 77008
How Much: Starts at $33

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A Very Sinatra Christmas Special at Marriott Marquis Houston

Celebrate the season with A Very Sinatra Christmas Special at Marriott Marquis Houston, hosted on the city’s most striking rooftop venue in the heart of Downtown. 

The evening will feature holiday favorites like “White Christmas,” “What a Wonderful World,” “Let It Snow,” and “New York, New York,” paired perfectly with classic cocktails and skyline views. Tickets will also include access to Texas Winter Lights.

When: Saturday, December 20, 2025 | 8 pm
Where: Marriott Marquis Houston Downtown, 1777 Walker St, Houston, TX 77010
How Much: Starts at $45

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Houston Children’s Chorus “Kids & Christmas” Pops Concert

Celebrate the season with the Houston Children’s Chorus in their 37th annual Kids & Christmas Pops Concert. The young performers will fill the hall with the joyful sounds of holiday favorites, including “Pat-A-Pan,” “Somewhere in My Memory,” “Prayer from Hansel & Gretel,” “God Bless Us Everyone!,” “Grandma Got Runover by a Reindeer,” and many more cherished secular and sacred songs.

The concert will also feature an audience sing-along and a special visit from Santa, creating a heartwarming holiday experience. 

When: Saturday, December 20, 2025 | 5 pm – 6 pm
Where: Cullen Theatre, Wortham Center, 501 Texas Ave, Houston, TX 77002
How Much: Starts at $28.25

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Houston’s Urban Nutcracker

Experience Houston’s Urban Nutcracker at the Stafford Centre for its 7th season on December 20 & 21. This lively, family-friendly production reimagines the holiday classic, blending narration with diverse dance styles, from ballet and hip hop to tap and folkloric dance, celebrating Houston’s cultural and historical heritage.

When: Saturday, December 20 – 21, 2025 
Where: Stafford Centre, 10505 Cash Rd, Stafford, TX 77477
How Much: Starts at $45

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Pentatonix at Toyota Center

Catch three-time GRAMMY® Award-winning vocal quintet Pentatonix at Toyota Center for their Christmas in the City Tour. The group will bring their boldest and brightest holiday show yet, featuring signature harmonies, dazzling production, and festive energy that has made them a favorite for fans of all ages.

When: Saturday, December 20, 2025 | 7 pm
Where: Toyota Center, 1510 Polk St, Houston, TX 77002
How Much: Starts at $50