In city with over a million people, Houston’s holiday season boasts everything from 5K runs to ballet performances. There are traditional events that have been going on for years, and there are a few which are just making their Houstonian holiday debut. Over the break, don’t stay cooped up when there is a plethora of things to do with friends, family or on your own.
Check out these events that Houston offers to keep you busy this season.
Houston Zoo Lights
A Houston tradition since its debut in 2012, the Houston Zoo hosts the “Zoo Lights” festival from Nov. 20 to Jan. 9 (it is closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day). The zoo begins decorating for the event months in advance, and the festival lets visitors stroll through a glittering myriad of LED Christmas lights while sipping hot chocolate. The displays offer more than just twinkling Christmas lights, including vibrant light projections and nightly singing performances from groups around the greater Houston area. Admission fee is $12 for children, and $16 for adults with a senior discount of $9.50. Admission is free for all Houston Zoo membership owners.
Texas Renaissance Festival
Dust off your medieval garb and pull out your drinking horn before heading to the annual Texas Renaissance Festival. Started in 1974 and held at an old strip mining site, this festival is the nation’s largest renaissance festival. From Oct. 10 to Nov. 29, participants drive approximately 50 miles out of Houston to Todd Mission, Texas where the festival is held. Order a monstrous turkey leg and a pint of beer before meandering through the unique shops and shows. Realistically staged jousts are held three times a day, and there is always food to eat. The Renaissance Festival hosts a series of themes which run throughout the different weekends of the festival, such as “Celtic Christmas,” which runs from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. from Nov. 27 to 29. Ticket prices are $30 at the gate, with discounts available for group tickets.
The Jingle Bell Run
On Sunday, Dec. 13, over 7,000 participants will join the 32 annual YMCA Jingle Bell Run & Walk. The event features a 5-mile timed race, a 3-mile run/walk and a Kids Fun Run. The race is open to all ages and fitness levels, and the festivities include live music, a costume contest, food trucks and more. According to the YMCA website, the event raises funds for the Tellepsen Family Downtown YMCA Annual Campaign, which “helps ensure that the YMCA continues to strengthen our community through outreach programs.” So whether you stroll or sprint, the Jingle Bell Run is a Houston holiday tradition with a purpose. Register online or contact Wade Schrock at 713-659-8501 for more details.
The Nutcracker Ballet
From Nov. 27 through Dec. 27, everyone has the opportunity to see the breathtaking ballet, “The Nutcracker.” The Houston Ballet, located at The Wortham Theater, has been putting this incredible show on for 28 years, and this is the final time that Desmond Heeley’s rendition of “The Nutcracker” will be shown in Houston. Ticket prices range from $30-$120. However, this price should not stop you from having a winter date or experiencing this magical experience with your family.
Discovery Green Ice Skating
In Houston, the only thing that usually ices over is the roads, but not at Discovery Green Park. Starting Nov. 23, Discovery Green is featuring their annual ice skating rink called: “The ICE.” It costs $14 per person, and the price includes a pair of rental ice skates. You get to skate outside on real ice in the middle of Houston’s beautiful downtown for an hour and a half. They also host themed events like “Chanukah on Ice,” which will be from 5 to 8 p.m. on Dec. 21. Ice skating in a beautiful place like Discovery Green with fellow Houstonians is a great way to spend a winter’s day.
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