12 Festive Activities To Enjoy On Christmas Day In Houston

The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than with the many festive activities Houston has to offer? Christmas Day is a time of joy and celebration, and there is no shortage of fun things to do in the city during this time of year. From ice skating to holiday markets, Houston is the perfect destination for those looking to get into the spirit of the season. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of 12 festive activities to enjoy on Christmas Day in Houston. Whether you’re looking to spend time with family or friends, these activities are sure to make your day merry and bright. Let’s dive in!

Ice skate at Discovery Green

Characteristic	Description
Name	Discovery Green
Type	Park in Houston, Texas
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 18,592
Address	1500 McKinney St, Houston, TX 77010
Phone	(713) 400-7336
Hours	Wednesday - opens at 6 AM and closes at 11 PM Thursday - opens at 6 AM and closes at 11 PM Friday - opens at 6 AM and closes at 11 PM Saturday - opens at 6 AM and closes at 11 PM Sunday - opens at 6 AM and closes at 11 PM Monday - opens at 6 AM and closes at 11 PM Tuesday - opens at 6 AM and closes at 11 PM
Profiles

If you’re wondering what to do in Houston on Christmas Day, you should definitely consider ice skating at Discovery Green. Located in downtown Houston, Discovery Green is a beautiful park that offers a variety of activities and events throughout the year. During the holiday season, the park is transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with a 7,716 square-foot ice skating rink.

Ice skating at Discovery Green has become an annual tradition for many families in Houston. The rink is open every day, including Christmas Day, from mid-November to mid-January. Admission is $15 per person, which includes skate rental. You can bring your own skates if you prefer, but the rental skates are included in the admission price, so it’s a great deal.

The ice skating rink at Discovery Green is perfect for both beginners and experienced skaters. There’s plenty of room to skate, and the ice is well-maintained. There are also skating aids available for younger children or those who may need a little extra help staying upright.

The park offers free skating lessons on Saturdays at 11 a.m. for those who are interested in learning or improving their skating skills. This is a great opportunity to learn from experienced instructors and meet other skaters in the Houston community.

In addition to ice skating, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy at Discovery Green during the holiday season. The park hosts a variety of events and performances, including live music, dance performances, and a holiday market. You can also enjoy food and drinks from one of the many vendors at the park.

Overall, ice skating at Discovery Green is a great way to spend Christmas Day in Houston. Whether you’re with family or friends, it’s a fun activity that everyone can enjoy. Don’t forget to dress warmly and bring gloves, as it can get chilly on the ice.

Take a stroll through Zoo Lights at Houston Zoo

Houston, the largest city in Texas, has plenty of holiday activities to offer its residents and visitors, and one of the most popular activities is Zoo Lights at the Houston Zoo. Zoo Lights is an annual event that transforms the zoo into a winter wonderland. The event features millions of twinkling lights, luminous displays of wild animals, and festive holiday activities that are sure to delight visitors of all ages.

If you're planning to spend Christmas Day in Houston, Zoo Lights is an excellent way to celebrate the holiday with your family and friends. The event opens at 5:00 p.m. and closes at 10:00 p.m. every night, including holidays. So, if you're looking for something to do after your Christmas Day celebrations, you can head over to the zoo for a memorable evening under the stars.

As you stroll through the zoo, you'll see the festive lights, animated light sculptures, and dazzling projections. The lights displays include life-size lighted animal sculptures, a candy cane tunnel, and a giant Christmas tree. You'll also see the Enchanted Forest, the Butterfly Garden, and the Holiday Train Village. The colorful and stunning effects of the light displays will leave you in awe and make your heart feel warm.

In addition to the lights, the zoo also offers food and beverage options to keep you warm and cozy. You can enjoy hot chocolate, cider, and seasonal treats like popcorn and funnel cake. You can also enjoy a beer or a glass of wine if you're looking to relax and unwind.

For families with kids, there are plenty of holiday activities at Zoo Lights to keep them entertained. Kids can take part in the Polar Express, a train ride that takes them on a journey through a snowy, North Pole landscape. There's also the Splash Pad that's transformed into an ice rink for skating.

In conclusion, if you're looking to celebrate Christmas Day in Houston, the Zoo Lights event at the Houston Zoo is an activity that you should not miss. It's a perfect way to spend your evenings under the stars and experience the magic of the holiday season. So, put your dancing shoes on and take a walk through the Zoo Lights exhibits that will amaze you and create memories that will last a lifetime!

Catch a holiday-themed movie at Alamo Drafthouse

If you find yourself in Houston on Christmas Day, you might be wondering what to do to make the most of the holiday. One great option is to head to the Alamo Drafthouse cinema, where you can catch a holiday-themed movie to get you in the festive spirit.

The Alamo Drafthouse is a unique moviegoing experience that offers delicious food and drinks served right to your seat while you watch the film. The Houston location has a variety of movies playing on Christmas Day that are perfect for the holiday season.

Some of the options include classic Christmas films like "It's a Wonderful Life," "A Christmas Story," and "Elf." If you're in the mood for something newer, there are also options like the animated film "Klaus," or the comedy "Office Christmas Party."

In addition to the movie itself, the Alamo Drafthouse creates a festive atmosphere with decorations and holiday-themed drinks and snacks. You can sip on a warm mug of hot cocoa or eggnog while you munch on popcorn or a holiday-themed candy bar.

If you're looking for a way to relax and unwind on Christmas Day, catching a holiday movie at the Alamo Drafthouse is a perfect option. You can escape the stress and chaos of the holiday and immerse yourself in a heartwarming or hilarious film, all while enjoying delicious food and drinks in a cozy setting.

Whether you're in Houston for the holidays or you're a local looking for something fun to do on Christmas Day, make your way to the Alamo Drafthouse and enjoy a holiday-themed movie that will put you in a festive mood.

Visit the Christmas Village at Bayou Bend

Houston on Christmas Day is a magical time, and if you're looking for something special to do with your family or friends, paying a visit to the Christmas Village at Bayou Bend is an excellent choice. Bayou Bend is a historic estate that once belonged to the Houston philanthropist, Ima Hogg. The estate has an impressive collection of art, antiques, and beautiful gardens, and during Christmas, it transforms into a winter wonderland filled with holiday cheer.

As you make your way through the estate, you'll encounter various holiday-themed attractions, including live music, festive décor, and plenty of food and drink stalls. The main attraction is the Christmas Village, which is inspired by the city's historic holiday markets. The village is filled with charming wooden huts that sell everything from handmade crafts to sweets and treats. You'll find gingerbread houses, Christmas ornaments, and unique gifts perfect for stocking stuffers.

The Village also has plenty of food and drink options, with some of Houston's favorite restaurants serving up seasonal delights. You can sip hot apple cider or mulled wine and indulge in roasted chestnuts and gingerbread cookies. There's also a Santa's Workshop, where kids can meet Santa and Mrs. Claus and take pictures, write letters to Santa or enjoy a ride on the mini train, among other activities.

The Christmas Village at Bayou Bend is open from November to January, perfect for the holiday season. The Village is open from 5 pm to 10 pm every day, and tickets can be purchased at the gate or online in advance. It's a great place to celebrate with friends and family, and the ambiance is sure to put you in the Christmas spirit.

In conclusion, visiting the Christmas Village at Bayou Bend is a must-visit attraction in Houston during Christmas. It's a great place to shop, eat and drink, and indulge in some holiday cheer. There's nothing like the feeling of being immersed in a winter wonderland, surrounded by twinkling lights, music, and the sweet smell of gingerbread. Don't miss out on spending a memorable and magical Christmas Day at Bayou Bend.

Check out the illuminated Christmas trees at CityCentre

Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year, and if you're in Houston, TX, you have a lot of options to indulge in. One of the must-visit locations in Houston for Christmas day is CityCentre. Located in the vibrant and posh Energy Corridor, CityCentre is an open-air shopping, dining, and entertainment destination that has something for everyone.

One of the major highlights of Christmas day celebrations at CityCentre is the stunningly illuminated Christmas trees. The giant, visually stunning trees stand proudly tall and are decorated with glimmering lights to celebrate the festivities. The magical aura created by the trees is nothing short of breathtaking.

In addition to the tree lighting, CityCentre has plenty of other entertainment options to lighten up your Christmas day. You can wander around the open-air mall, indulge in some high-end shopping, or head to one of the many restaurants to treat your taste buds with some delicious cuisine.

If you're planning a visit to CityCentre on Christmas day, make sure to check out the ice rink, which is perfect for family-friendly fun. With the Christmas trees all around, the rink is a true picture-perfect opportunity to capture the holiday spirit.

In conclusion, CityCentre Houston is an excellent spot to enjoy Christmas day. As you stroll through this charming and enjoyable destination, the sparkling Christmas trees add a special touch to the experience. Head there with your family or friends, and you’re bound to have a memorable time.

Take a train ride through Magical Winter Lights

Christmas is a wonderful time of year, and it's never complete without taking a ride through the magical winter wonderland of Houston's Magical Winter Lights. There's no better way to enjoy the Christmas season than to experience the thrill of train rides through a beautiful winter lights exhibit.

The beautiful exhibit is set up at the Gulf Greyhound Park, located a short distance from Houston in the city of La Marque. It boasts over two million dazzling lights in different colors and shapes. The display is meticulously designed to create a wonderland of different themes such as Winter Wonderland, Holiday Market, Dino Fun, and the Lone Star State.

Taking a train ride through this winter wonderland is a magical experience for both adults and children. You will get the chance to see some of the world's famous landmarks showcased in lights like the Eiffel Tower, the Great Wall of China, and even the Statue of Liberty! This exhibit is a must-see for anyone visiting Houston during the holiday season.

The train ride gives visitors a unique perspective to experience the beautiful lights display fully. You will get an excellent view of the lights and can snap pictures of all the different lights on display.

The Magical Winter Lights offer more than just the train ride experience. There are also carnival rides, giant inflatables, a snow play area, Chinese acrobats, and food and beverages for a complete family fun experience!

The light exhibit runs from November to January, and there's never a dull moment while exploring the beautiful light displays. You can decide to visit during the day to enjoy the intricate details of the lights or at night to enjoy the full effect of the lights.

In conclusion, Houston's Magical Winter Lights is a spectacular winter wonderland, and if you're looking for a unique experience this Christmas, a train ride through this display is a must. With the beautiful lights and spectacular decorations on display, you'll be sure to make lasting memories with your loved ones. Make sure to plan early, book your tickets online, and avoid long queues during peak hours.

Attend a holiday concert at Jones Hall

Houston is known for having many amazing holiday activities and events that are sure to get you in the festive spirit! If you're looking for something special to do on Christmas day, attending a holiday concert at Jones Hall should definitely be on your list.

Located in downtown Houston, Jones Hall is home to the Houston Symphony Orchestra, and during the holiday season, they put on a variety of special performances that are perfect for the whole family. From classics like Handel's Messiah to more modern holiday favorites, there's sure to be a show that will get you in the Christmas mood.

One popular Christmas concert at Jones Hall is the Very Merry POPS!, which features lively holiday music performed by the Houston Symphony, as well as sing-alongs, special guests, and even a visit from Santa himself! Another great option is the Nutcracker, a timeless holiday classic that is always a crowd-pleaser.

If you're looking for something a bit different this year, you can also check out the Cirque de la Symphonie, a show that combines the talents of aerialists, acrobats, and contortionists with the beautiful music of the Houston Symphony. Or, if you're a fan of Christmas movies, you might enjoy Home Alone in Concert, which features a screening of the beloved holiday film accompanied by the live performance of its iconic soundtrack.

No matter what concert you choose to attend, you're sure to be impressed by the beautiful setting of Jones Hall, which is decorated for the holiday season with twinkling lights and festive decor. Plus, the venue offers plenty of parking and easy access to local restaurants and shops, so you can make a full day of your Christmas outing.

Overall, attending a holiday concert at Jones Hall is a wonderful way to make the most of your Christmas day in Houston. With world-class performers, beautiful music, and a festive atmosphere, it's the perfect way to celebrate the season with friends, family, and loved ones. So why not make it a new holiday tradition and book your tickets today?

Enjoy a traditional Christmas meal at your favorite Houston restaurant

Houston is a city that is known for its diverse culture and amazing food scene. It is a place where you can find all types of cuisine ranging from Mexican to Chinese, Italian to Mediterranean. When it comes to holidays like Christmas, Houston restaurants specialize in serving traditional meals to make the festive season even more memorable. Whether you’re looking for a fancy dinner or a casual meal, Houston has got you covered. Here are some of the best places where you can enjoy a traditional Christmas meal in Houston:

• Brennan's of Houston: Brennan's of Houston is one of the most popular restaurants in the city, serving traditional Creole cuisine. Known for their delicious gumbo and turtle soup, Brennan's of Houston also serves a special Christmas menu every year. If you’re looking for a fancy Christmas dinner, then Brennan's of Houston is the place to be.
• Pappas Bros. Steakhouse: Pappas Bros. Steakhouse is one of the finest steakhouses in the city, offering a wide selection of prime beef and seafood. If you’re a meat lover, then Pappas Bros. Steakhouse is the perfect place to enjoy a delicious Christmas meal. They offer a special Christmas menu that includes a variety of steaks, seafood, and side dishes.
• Rainbow Lodge: Rainbow Lodge is a hunting lodge-inspired restaurant that specializes in wild game and seafood dishes. If you’re looking for something different this Christmas, then Rainbow Lodge is the perfect place to be. They serve a special Christmas menu that includes traditional dishes like turkey and ham, as well as unique dishes like venison and wild boar.
• Hugo's: Hugo's is a Mexican restaurant that offers a unique blend of traditional and contemporary Mexican cuisine. If you’re looking for a festive and colorful Christmas dinner, then Hugo's is the perfect place to be. They serve a special Christmas menu that includes traditional Mexican dishes like tamales and mole, as well as unique dishes like chiles en nogada.
• Lucille's: Lucille's is a Southern-style restaurant that specializes in comfort food dishes. If you’re looking for a cozy and casual Christmas dinner, then Lucille's is the perfect place to be. They offer a special Christmas menu that includes traditional Southern dishes like fried chicken and collard greens, as well as festive dishes like eggnog and pumpkin pie.

In conclusion, Houston has a diverse restaurant scene that caters to all tastes and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a fancy dinner or a casual meal, there’s a restaurant in Houston that will meet your needs. Be sure to check out these restaurants during the festive season to enjoy a traditional Christmas meal and create some unforgettable memories.

Buy unique gifts at the annual Houston Nutcracker Market

Houston on Christmas day is a magical time of year, with plenty of things to see and do. One of the highlights of the holiday season is the annual Houston Nutcracker Market, where residents and visitors can find unique gifts for loved ones.

The Nutcracker Market is a long-standing Houston tradition, dating back more than three decades. It features hundreds of vendors from all over the country, selling everything from handmade crafts and jewelry to gourmet food and home décor.

For shoppers looking for something truly unique, the Nutcracker Market is the perfect place to find it. Many of the vendors specialize in one-of-a-kind items that can't be found anywhere else. Whether you're looking for a handmade quilt or a piece of jewelry designed by a local artist, you're sure to find something special here.

But it's not just shopping that makes the Nutcracker Market such an enjoyable experience. There are also plenty of activities and entertainment options for visitors of all ages. Kids can enjoy face painting, balloon artists, and other fun activities, while adults can indulge in wine tastings and cooking demonstrations.

One of the highlights of the Nutcracker Market is the Preview Party, which takes place the evening before the event officially opens. This is a great opportunity to get a first look at the vendors and their merchandise, while enjoying food and drink from some of Houston's best restaurants.

For those who can't make it to the Nutcracker Market in person, there is also an online shopping option. This allows shoppers to browse and purchase items from the comfort of their own homes.

Overall, the Houston Nutcracker Market is a wonderful way to get into the holiday spirit and support local businesses at the same time. Whether you're shopping for gifts or just looking for a fun day out with family and friends, this annual event is not to be missed.

Join the Ugly Christmas Sweater run/walk at Karbach Brewing Co

Are you looking for an exciting way to spend your Christmas day in Houston? Well, look no further because Karbach Brewing Co is hosting an Ugly Christmas Sweater run/walk that's perfect for all ages. Get ready to sweat off those Christmas calories and make some great memories with your family and friends.

The Ugly Christmas Sweater run/walk is an annual event that has become a holiday staple for many Houstonians. This year’s event will be held on December 25th, and it promises to be bigger and better than ever before. The event is open to everyone, regardless of fitness level, and you can run or walk at your own pace. You don't need to be a professional runner to join in on the fun.

The course is approximately three miles and goes through the Karbach Brewing Co premises. Along the way, participants will enjoy music, Christmas decorations, and cheer stations. You'll get to experience Houston's beautiful weather and take in the sights and sounds of the holiday season.

The best part of this event is that you get to wear your Ugly Christmas Sweater with pride. The more ridiculous your sweater is, the better. It's a great chance to show off your Christmas spirit and get creative with your holiday attire. There will even be a costume contest with prizes for the best Ugly Christmas Sweater.

After the race, you can reward yourself with a cold beer at the Karbach Brewing Co taproom. You can also explore the brewery's facilities and learn more about the brewing process. It's a great way to end your Christmas day on a high note.

In conclusion, Houston’s Ugly Christmas Sweater run/walk is a must-go event that promises to be both fun and festive. It's a great way to spend your holiday, get some exercise, and make memories with your friends and family. Put on your Ugly Christmas Sweater, lace-up your shoes, and join us on December 25th for an exciting and unforgettable experience.

Attend the Festival of Lights at Moody Gardens

Christmas Day in Houston is always a special time of the year, as the city comes alive with sparkling lights and festive celebrations. One of the most popular Christmas events in Houston is the Festival of Lights at Moody Gardens, which draws visitors from all over the region to enjoy a dazzling display of holiday cheer.

Located on Galveston Island, just 50 miles south of Houston, Moody Gardens is a sprawling 242-acre complex that includes a botanical garden, aquarium, rainforest exhibit, and a host of other attractions. But during the holiday season, the gardens take on a whole new life as they are transformed into a magical winter wonderland.

The Festival of Lights features more than two million lights and dozens of stunning lighted displays, including soaring angels, blushing poinsettias, and whimsical Christmas characters. Visitors can stroll through the gardens and marvel at the dazzling array of colors and light, or take a ride on the festival’s popular Polar Express train, which takes guests on a magical journey through the gardens, complete with hot chocolate and cookies.

In addition to the spectacular light displays, the Festival of Lights also features live entertainment, including musical performances, holiday parades, and visits from Santa Claus and other Christmas characters. Plus, there are plenty of food and drink options available, from hot cocoa and cider to traditional holiday treats like gingerbread and roasted chestnuts.

The Festival of Lights at Moody Gardens is open every night from late November through early January, making it the perfect way to spend Christmas Day in Houston. Whether you’re looking for a fun outing with family or friends, or you’re visiting Houston for the holidays, the Festival of Lights is a must-see event that’s sure to leave you feeling merry and bright. So why not make this Christmas Day one to remember and head down to Moody Gardens for an unforgettable holiday experience?

Watch the Christmas Boat Parade at the Kemah Boardwalk

Houston is a vibrant city that has a lot to offer throughout the year, but it becomes even more exciting during the holiday season. On Christmas day specifically, the city comes alive with festive activities, and one of the most exciting events to attend is the Christmas Boat Parade at the Kemah Boardwalk. This parade is a magnificent display of all kinds of boats, from small fishing boats to grand yachts, decked out in colorful Christmas lights and decorations.

The Kemah Boardwalk is a premier entertainment venue located just outside of Houston along the picturesque Galveston Bay. This seaside destination gets transformed into a Christmas wonderland during the holiday season, as they offer several holiday-themed events, including the annual Christmas Boat Parade. The boat parade is a long-standing tradition in the area, dating back to the early 1900s.

The parade takes to the waters of Clear Lake, and spectators can enjoy the spectacle from several vantage points at the Kemah Boardwalk. The parade normally commences around 6 PM and lasts for an hour, giving visitors ample time to marvel at the beautiful boats as they pass by. The view of the boats as they weave their way through the water while shimmering with thousands of lights is truly awe-inspiring.

There’s plenty to do at the Kemah Boardwalk before and after the parade, which means visitors can make a day of it. With a wide range of attractions, including restaurants, shops, and amusement park rides, you can be sure there is something for every member of the family.

Apart from the boat parade, the Kemah Boardwalk offers other seasonal activities, such as the skating rink, a tree lighting ceremony, and a holiday market. All these fun-filled attractions ensure that you have something to enjoy before and after the Christmas Boat Parade.

In conclusion, if you're wondering how to spend your Christmas day in Houston, then you should head to the Kemah Boardwalk to watch the Christmas Boat Parade. This display of lights and glimmering boats will leave you feeling the magic of the season. Plus, there’s plenty of holiday cheer and festivities to enjoy throughout the day, making it a great holiday destination.

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