Houston Family Magazine December 2022 Issue

publisher/editor

Kimberly Davis Guerra kim@houstonfamilymagazine.com

associate editor

Chantal Lemieux chantal@houstonfamilymagazine.com

creative director/ production

Casey Johnson casey@houstonfamilymagazine.com

staff photographer

Kimberly Guerra

Lisa Hastings

Christine Katz

Valerie Kohler

Chantal Lemieux

Jan Pierce

Beverly Davis Tish Petty

Publication Printers Denver, Colorado contact us: 1334 Brittmoore Rd. Box #1000B Houston, TX 77043

(P) 713.266.1885 (F) 713.266.1915 www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com

@houstonfamilymagazine CONTACT US Let us know how we’re doing. kim@houstonfamilymagazine.com

Houston Family is published monthly by Houston Family Magazine, LLC. Houston Family is distributed free of charge, one copy per reader. Only Houston Family authorized distributors may deliver or pick up the magazines. We reserve the right to edit, reject or comment editorially on all submitted material. We cannot be responsible for the return of any submitted material.

Houston Family is ©2020 by Houston Family Magazine,LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without express permission is prohibited.

Spine experts to help bring you back.

When it comes to back pain, every patient is unique. At St. Luke's Health, we specialize in advanced treatments for a variety of conditions with both surgical and non-surgical options. And even though every diagnosis is different, you'll find our specialists have the whole spine covered—from back to back to back.

Visit StLukesHealth.org/spine to make an appointment and start your treatment today.

Zoo Lights is BACK at the Houston Zoo!

This year the Houston Zoo celebrates its eleventh year as one of Houston’s most dazzling holiday traditions, TXU Energy presents Zoo Lights! Through January 9, visitors can take in the sights and sounds of the season as they enjoy the beautiful Zoo grounds illuminated with earth-friendly LED bulbs.

In addition to fan favorites, there are several new Zoo Lights features this year. They’ve added more large animal lanterns along the path, including elephants under the oak trees at the reflection pool, monkeys hanging from trees, and giraffes peaking around corners in the African Forest. The Children’s Zoo plaza is transformed into a dance floor with moving lights in sync with holiday music. The dance floor is for all ages, but it’s been especially popular with the kids.

The reflection pool area is home to hundreds of glowing tulips synchronized to music under the giant illuminated oak trees with large zebra, tiger, and elephant lanterns placed throughout the tulips. New last year, but quickly becoming a fan favorite, is the hanging pollinator garden where guests can walk under a canopy of glowing butter flies as dancing flowers are projected on the floor. Guests can also experience a glowing underwater adventure as they

walk under illuminated jelly fish and through thousands of bubbles as the Great Ape Gallery transforms into the Illuminated Ocean.

Before you leave don’t forget to stop by Santa’s Workshop to say hi and to take a photo with Santa in his workshop. He will be at the Zoo until December 23. Don’t miss out.

On Monday, December 5 the Zoo will hold Sensory Friendly Night designed for guests with sensory sensitivities and their families. On this Zoo Lights night, guests can expect a smaller crowd, quieter music, limited flashing lights, and designated quiet areas.

Tickets for TXU Energy presents Zoo Lights are only sold online at houstonzoo.org. Make sure to buy early for the best price.

Gifts for Every Animal Lover

Zoo Lights tickets make great gifts. In fact, the Houston Zoo has a variety of gifts ideas for the animal lover in your life. Whether you give Zoo Lights tickets, an adopted Zoo animal, a gift membership, a holiday Cameo greeting, or an unforgettable animal encounter, they’ll love their unique gift. You can even buy ornaments painted by the animals at the Zoo! With every gift you’ll also help support animals at the Zoo and help save animals in the wild. Skip the crowds and shop online for holiday gifts from the Houston Zoo this year.

Animal Encounters are one-of-a-kind opportunities to meet zookeepers and get up close to your favorite animals, including sloths, elephants, orangutans, and more. Each encounter is an interactive experience designed with the animals’ welfare in mind. Get a tour of the space, meet the animals, and spend some time with a keeper to learn how the animals are cared for, the challenges they might face in the wild, and what you can do at home to help save them in the wild. New in 2023, you will be able to get up close and hear all about the giant anteaters in the Zoo’s recent exhibit, South America’s Pantanal.

Keepers at the Zoo work to enrich the lives of the animals in their care every day by introducing fun, interesting, and complex activities, such as painting, to the animals’ daily routine. Using non-toxic paint on canvas and a little help from their keepers, animals create their very own masterpieces. From paw prints to sea lion kisses, each artists’ creation is one of a kind. You can order your own animal art masterpiece or give one as a unique holiday gift. The Zoo also has holiday ornaments painted by the animals, including Methai the elephant.

Give your favorite animal lover the gift that keeps giving all year long, the gift of a Houston Zoo Membership. Members get in free all year with no reservations needed. They also enjoy other benefits like discounted Zoo Lights tickets, priority registration for summer camp, early access during monthly member mornings, and more. Zoo membership is a unique present everyone is sure to enjoy.

Learn more about these gift ideas and how you can buy yours at houstonzoo.org.

Penguins Are Coming to Houston

The Houston Zoo ends 2022 with Zoo Lights with many exciting events in store for 2023 – including bringing penguins to Houston! In the spring Houston Zoo will open Galápagos Islands, the first major exhibit of its kind to feature the diverse wildlife of the islands. The new exhibit will immerse guests in the island’s unique environment and animal habitats.

When the exhibit opens, it will include a state-ofthe-art habitat for Humboldt penguins. Humboldt penguins are a great fit for Houston, since they originate from Chile and Peru in South America where it can get as warm as 100 degrees. With penguins, sea lions, giant tortoises, sharks, and more, Galápagos Islands will add an extraordinary immersive experience to the Houston Zoo.

Visit houstonzoo.org for more information.

Calendar of Events

The big to do

If you're lucky enough to be in Houston in December, you'll be rewarded with some of the most magical events of the year. The city sparkles with a million fairy lights, and hundreds of decorated trees line our neighborhoods for a magical atmosphere you won’t want to miss!

DECEMBER 1

Zoo Lights

(through January 8, 2023)

Sip hot chocolate as you stroll through the beautiful Houston Zoo. Interact with Candy the Zoo Lights Zebra presented by HEB, take a selfie on a giant ice throne, and take a socially distanced photo with Santa in his workshop.

Houstonzoo.org

Houston Zoo 5:30-10:30pm. All ages. Admission tickets are required.

Cut your own Christmas tree at Dewberry Farm!

Enjoy the countryside and a family experience while you peruse, choose and cut your own Christmas.

dewberryfarm.com

Dewberry Farm. Every Day. All ages.

Magical Winter Lights (through January 7, 2023)

Six million lights illuminate the eight dazzling themed displays spread across the 20- acre exhibit this year! From Dinosaurs to Alice in Winterland, there is truly something for everyone!

magicalwinterlights.com

2525 FM 565, Baytown, TX 77523 5pm. All ages. Tickets starts at $15.

Holiday movie on the green: The Grinch

The Grinch attempts to undermine the annual Christmas celebration at Whoville with the help of his loyal dog and reindeer.

www.discoverygreen.com/event/the-grinchbank-of-america-screen-on-the-green-3/ Discovery Green. 7-10pm. All ages.

Holiday in the Park

The City of Bellaire will bring in the holiday season and welcome Santa at Holiday in the Park! Come enjoy live music from local choirs, snow slides, food, and more.

www.bellairetx.gov/717/Holiday-in-the-Park

Bellaire Town Square, 7008 South Rice Ave. Bellaire, TX 77401 6-8:30pm. All ages.

THE POLAR EXPRESSTM Train Ride (through December 23)

The adventure comes to life when the train departs for a round-trip journey to the North Pole. Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, passengers will relive the magic of the classic story.

https://galvestonrrmuseum.org/ event/the-polar-express-train-ride/ galvestonrrmuseum.org

Galveston Railroad Museum. All day. All ages. Ticket prices vary.

Holiday in the Gardens (through Jan. 7, 2023)

This is what you can expect: Ice Land, Festival of Lights, Ice Skating Rink, Holiday 3D Films, Hotel Packages, Rudolph 4D, Arctic Slide, Train Rides, Star: the Dancing Tree of Light, Cirque Joyeux Holiday Show (Matinee, Evening & Dinner Shows), Pictures with Santa, New Year's Palooza, Holiday Dinners, Nightly Fireside S'Mores.

Moodygardens.org

Moody Gardens, Galveston. All day. All ages. Ticket prices vary.

The Polar Express (through December

Enjoy

Dickens On the Strand Returns

Christmasatgaylordtexan.com www.grapevinetexasusa.com/christmascapital-of-texas/gaylord-texans-lone-starchristmas/

Sugarland Holiday Lights (through Jan. 1, 2023)

Celebrate the season in the most magical way! This sparkling wonderland features more than 3 million lights and numerous themed displays.

sugarlandholidaylights.com

Constellation Field, Sugarland Every day. Opening/closing times vary All ages. Adult tickets starting at $17, senior $14 and youth $14.

Trains Over Texas at the HMNS (through Jan.3, 2023)

Create holiday memories by traveling across Texas by model railroad in this scratch- built O-scale model. Destinations include oil country salt domes, prairies and wetlands of the Texas coast and state and national monuments.

hmns.org

Museum of Natural Science. All day. Every day. All ages

31)

The magical story comes to life the minute the train departs the Palestine Depot for the journey to the North Pole on select days in November and in December.

texasstaterailroad.net/events/polarexpress/

Texas State Railroad. Palestine Depot Select days and times. All ages. Ticket prices vary.

Teach you Tuesdays: build your

house

Brush off your bowlers and prepare your petticoats as Galveston Historical Foundation presents the 49th annual Dickens on The Strand. Held the first weekend in December, the annual festival is a holiday tradition with great family programming, live entertainment, special events and more.

Dickens on The Strand, based on 19thcentury Victorian London, features parades, non-stop entertainment on four stages, new additions like Tiny Tim’s Play Land, Shopkeeper Skills Village, and roaming characters throughout the festival.

Costumed vendors peddle their wares from street stalls and rolling carts laden with holiday food and drink, Victorian-inspired crafts, clothing, jewelry, holiday decorations, and gift items.

galvestonhistory.org

Through Dec 4th All ages.

Mistletoe Square

(every

Friday until December

30)

There's no doubt that the holidays are a magical time! But we have to wonder, what are they like around the world? Every Friday, enjoy live music that showcases winter holidays around the world.

marketsquarepark.com/calendar/

Market Square. 6-9pm. All ages.

City of Sugar Land Christmas Tree Lighting

There is nothing more magical than a tree and glittering lights to set the mood. Stay to dine or have a desert at one of the many restaurants around the square.

midtownhouston.com/events/2022-12/ Bagby Park. 5:30pm. Age: 21+

www.sugarlandtownsquare.com/christmasin-the-square/

Sugarland Town Square. 5-8pm. All ages.

Gaylord Texan’s Lone Star Christmas (through January 1, 2023)

the magic at Gaylord’s winter wonderland with 2 million lights, a 54- foottall Christmas tree, family events of snow tubing, gingerbread decorating corner, build-a-bear workshop and ice skating.

Jingle on the Boardwalk

Welcome the season with Santa, holiday music, movies, a toy drive & more!

www.kemahboardwalk.com/events.asp#11 Kemah Boardwalk.

All day. All ages.

ALL ABOARD THE CHRISTMAS TRAINS –WOODWAY (Fridays-Sundays)

Full of lights and sounds, the Christmas Trains are a sight to be seen. An array of model trains will wind their way through miniature snow-covered villages, mountains and tunnels for the enjoyment of all. This is the perfect place to bring kids, grandchildren and those who are young at heart!

www.second.org/event/all-aboard-thechristmas-trains-woodway/ Second Baptist Woodway Campus. 9am-1pm and on Saturday 8am-1pm. All ages.

Heights Holiday Home Tour

The fun begins with Santa photos at 4PM at Donovan Park, and the tour itself starts at 5:30PM. There are two options to tour, please visit the website to find out more about both options.

stores.houstonheightsstore.org/

tour starts at Donovan Park. All ages. $5+ suggested donation.

ROCO Connections: Yuletide

Brunch & Brass

Bring the family and delight in the sounds of your favorite holiday tunes in classic and jazz arrangements for brass. rocostg.wpengine.com/performances/ connections-yuletide-2022/

Houston Botanic Garden. 10am. All ages.

Dickens On the Strand Returns

Brush off your bowlers and prepare your petticoats as Galveston Historical Foundation presents the 49th annual Dickens on The Strand. Held the first weekend in December, the annual festival is a holiday tradition with great family programming, live entertainment, special events and more.

Dickens on The Strand, based on 19thcentury Victorian London, features parades, non-stop entertainment on four stages, new additions like Tiny Tim’s Play Land, Shopkeeper Skills Village, and roaming characters throughout the festival.

Costumed vendors peddle their wares from street stalls and rolling carts laden with holiday food and drink, Victorian-inspired crafts, clothing, jewelry, holiday decorations, and gift items.

galvestonhistory.org

Through Dec 4th All ages.

Home Alone with Live Orchestra

A true holiday favorite, this beloved comedy classic features renowned composer John Williams’ charming score performed live to picture by the Houston Symphony.

houstonsymphony.org/tickets/concerts/ home-alone-film-live-orchestra/

The Jones Hall

2:30pm or 7:30pm. All ages. Tickets start at $44/person

Holiday Festival (December 3-4)

The two-day festival features a holiday market, a craft station, live music performances throughout the park, a special performance by River Oaks Dance, a free photo booth with Santa Claus.

www.levyparkhouston.org/calendar/3901/

Levy Park Noon-5pm. All ages

Boho Holiday Market

If you’re looking for a unique gift, why not support small business and head out to the market?

www.sugarlandtownsquare.com/christmasin-the-square/

Sugarland Town Square. 11am-4pm. All ages.

1895 MOODY MANSION

(through December 30)

Book a tour for some Texas history along with subjects like architecture and decorative arts. Culture is always in season.

moodymansion.org

Moody Mansion, Galveston. 9am-5pm. Last tour is at 4pm. All ages. Free admission limited to students accompanied by a paying adult.

1892 BISHOP’S PALACE

(through December 30)

Experience a rare look inside the National Historic Landmark that are typically off-limits! These tours, held on Saturday mornings, also feature Mrs. Gresham’s studio, a third- floor view to a one of a kind look at the gulf.

galvestonhistory.org/sites/1892-bishopspalace

Bishop’s Palace, Galveston. 9am-5pm. Last tour is at 4pm.

All ages. Free admission limited to students accompanied by a paying adult.

All ages. Free admission limited to students accompanied by a paying adult.

GALVESTON HISTORIC SEAPORT and 1877 TALL SHIP ELISSA (through December 30)

Ship To Shore allows visitors to follow in the footsteps of the early immigrants, from the long sea voyage with its mix of hardships to the hustle of the1880s at Galveston, one of the busiest ports and booming cities in the United States.

galvestonhistory.org/sites/1877-tall-shipelissa-at-the-galveston-historic-seaport

Pier 22, Galveston 10am-5pm. All ages

Stearman Santa at the Lone Star Flight Museum!

Santa decided t give his reindeer some rest and asked if he could borrow our PT-17 Stearman for a Houston visit! Guests will be able to take photos with Santa and our Stearman, make ornaments and coloring pages.

lonestarflight.org

Lone Star Flight Museum.

Activities and events are at various times, check the website for details.

All ages. Admission ticket is required.

HANDS-ON HOUSTON: MIXED-MEDIA GINGERBREAD PEOPLE

This month, celebrate the holidays by making an extra-large, mixed-media gingerbread person!

crafthouston.org/events/hands-on-houstonmixed-media-gingerbread-people/

Houston Center for Contemporary Craft 11am-3pm. All ages

Books on the Bayou

There will be silly stories, rhymes, and songs, with a chance to check out books at Houston Public Library’s Mobile Express. Books on the Bayou will be held on the first Saturday of each month.

The Water Works, 105 Sabine Street 9am English. 10 am Spanish. Age: 6 months – 4 years old.

Dickens On the Strand Returns

Brush off your bowlers and prepare your petticoats as Galveston Historical Foundation presents the 49th annual Dickens on The Strand. Held the first weekend in December, the annual festival is a holiday tradition with great family programming, live entertainment, special events and more.

Dickens on The Strand, based on 19thcentury Victorian London, features parades, non-stop entertainment on four stages, new additions like Tiny Tim’s Play Land, Shopkeeper Skills Village, and roaming characters throughout the festival. Costumed vendors peddle their wares from street stalls and rolling carts laden with holiday food and drink, Victorian-inspired crafts, clothing, jewelry, holiday decorations, and gift items. galvestonhistory.org

Through Dec 4th All ages

Holiday Festival (December 3-4)

The two-day festival features a holiday market, a craft station, live music performances throughout the park, a special performance by River Oaks Dance, a free photo booth with Santa Claus. levyparkhouston.org/calendar/3901/ Levy Park Noon-5pm. All ages

Photos with Santa

Would you like a classic photo with Santa but not ready to have the long lines at the mall? Jingle all the way to the square and get festive.

sugarlandtownsquare.com/christmas-inthe-square/

Sugarland Town Square 1-5pm. All ages

Sunday Nights in the Plaza

Enjoy live music each Sunday with a line-up of inspirational artists.

https://www.citycentrehouston.com/events

City Centre 6-9pm. All ages

HANDEL’S MESSIAH (December 9-11)

The Houston Symphony, chorus, and guest soloists fill Jones Hall with joyous refrains and exultant arias, including the iconic “Hallelujah” Chorus, in this moving and powerful presentation of the greatest story ever told.

houstonsymphony.org

Jones Hall 7:30pm or 2:30pm. All ages.

DECEMBER 5

Zoo Lights (sensory friendly night)

Sip hot chocolate as you stroll through the beautiful Houston Zoo. Interact with Candy the Zoo Lights Zebra presented by HEB, take a selfie on a giant ice throne, and take a socially distanced photo with Santa in his workshop.

Houstonzoo.org

Houston Zoo 5:30-10:30pm. All ages. Admission tickets are required.

Deck the Trees (through January 3, 2023)

The spectacularly decorated trees will be on display so Houstonians can continue to enjoy this joyful holiday tradition.

The stunning Signature Tree captivates Houstonians time and again.

George R. Brown Convention Center All day. All ages

Family Storytime & Craft

Enjoy a literary experience! Spend the morning with a story followed by a craft that accompanies the reading. All craft supplies are included.

Levyparkhouston.org

Levy Park 10am. Age: 2-5

Edith L. Moore Nature

Sanctuary

Escape to this small but enchanting nature sanctuary for a reprieve from the city. Within its 17.5 acres of hardwood and pine forest and freshwater habitats, the Edith L. Moore Nature Sanctuary provides an important home for native wildlife.

houstonaudubon.org

Edith Moore Nature Sanctuary 7am-7pm. All ages

Japan Junction

Kids of all ages will enjoy expanding their cultural horizons through kamishibai “paper drama” storytelling and fun crafts that highlight Japanese traditions from origami to woodblock print making and more!

Levyparkhouston.org

Levy Park. 4:30pm. All ages

Samba Class

Learn a popular Brazilian dance style during this exciting class. Samba is a partner dance from Rio de Janeiro that evolved as a ballroom dance to the Brazilian samba musical rhythms. Bringing a dance partner is not necessary to participate. Instruction is provided by the Brazilian Cultural Institute.

midtownhouston.com

Midtown Park 7-9pm. Age: 16+

Holiday movie on the green: The Night before Christmas

Bored with the same old scare-and-scream routine, Pumpkin King Jack Skellington longs to spread the joy of Christmas. But his merry mission puts Santa in jeopardy and creates a nightmare for good little boys and girls everywhere.

www.discoverygreen.com/event/thenightmare-before-christmas-bank-ofamerica- screen-on-the-green/

Discovery Green 7pm. All ages

Nature Story Time and Discovery Center

Enjoy storytime on the front lawn of the nature discovery center. Please bring your own blanket.

naturediscoverycenter.org

Nature Discovery Center 4pm. Age: 0-5

KIDS CRAZY CHRISTMAS SHOW –WOODWAY (December 8-12)

Come hear the Christmas story through singing, dancing, and puppets. This show is a ton of fun, a tad bit of crazy.

https://www.second.org/event/kids-crazychristmas-show-woodway/

Second Baptist Woodway Campus 10am, 5 & 6pm. All ages.

Parents night out: Up on the Rooftop

Celebrate the season with holiday-themed music, bites and libations, magical views of downtown.

https://buffalobayou.org/event/up-on-therooftop-presented-by-the-currents-2/

Sunset Coffee Building, 1019 Commerce Street 6:30pm. Age: 21+

DECEMBER 9

Mistletoe Market: Outside of the box (Decmeber 9-10)

The market showcases a curated selection of more than 20 vendors, artisans, and performers. Enjoy shopping, food, craft activities, music, and more at this pet and family-friendly market.

https://midtownhouston.com/event/ mistletoe-market-7/ Bagby Street.

Movie screening: All the Beauty and the Bloodshed (December 9-18)

This compelling documentary about artist/ activist Nan Goldin explores her mission to hold the Sackler family responsible for the opioid crisis.

https://www.mfah.org/films

Museum of Fine Arts screening room 5pm or 7pm. All day.

Holiday Train at Hermann Park

Take a Christmas-themed train ride through Hermann Park to celebrate the holiday season.

Hermannpark.org

Hermann Park. Due to holiday hours, it is recommended you check for extended schedules. All ages.

Christmas Village at Bayou Bend (December 9-30)

Discover an immersive Christmas experience. A dazzling bridge brings you into a winter wonderland featuring thousands of lights throughout the 14-acre estate.

https://www.mfah.org/calendar/christmasvillage-bayou-bend/202212091730

Bayou Bend collection and Gardens 5:30-9pm. All ages. Tickets $10/person.

Tomball German Christmas Market and Festival (December 9-11)

Come and enjoy the family-friendly ambience – Gemütlichkeit – of this unique music/ street festival with three stages of live music and an open-air market.

https://www.tomballgermanfest.org/

Old Town Tomball All day. All ages

Movies under the stars: Home Alone

Bring family, friends and neighbors to watch this classic holiday movie.

https://marketsquarepark.com/calendar/ Market Square 7pm. All ages

Tissue Paper Stained Glass: Family Art Workshops

Create a tissue paper stained “glass” craft inspired from the different colors of “sunlight” in the Solstice installation. The natural light will make these shine!!! This craft is curated by The Orange Show. Limit of 100 participants.

https://www.discoverygreen.com/event/ tissue-paper-stained-glass-family-artworkshops- sponsored-by-pnc-bank/

Discovery Green 1-2:30pm. All ages.

Lights in the Heights

How about decorating your wagon and heading down to the lights in the heights?

https://www.woodland-heights.org/ events-1/2022/12/10/lights-in-the-heightsdecember-10th.

Woodland Heights. 6-9pm. All ages.

Breakfast with Santa

This exclusive holiday event will start with the crowd-favorite of seeing St. Nick arrive in a vintage PT-17 Stearman plane and joins us for a VIP breakfast. Breakfast guests will then join museum visitors for photos with Santa in our Heritage Hangar.

https://lonestarflight.org/events/upcomingevents/breakfast-with-santa-dec-10/

Lone Star Flight Museum. 8:30am. All ages. Tickets $30.

Family Day at the Ocean Star: An Offshore Holiday

The term “Christmas Tree” means something very different in the Oil and Gas Industry.

Come find out what it is while learning about polymer chains. Create a model of a simple carbon chain, using red and green construction paper—fit for your very own holiday tree!

www.oceanstaroec.com

Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig Museum 10am-3pm. All ages. Children have free admission every second Saturday.

Christmas Boat Lane Parade on Clear Lake

The parade features more than 60 brightly decorated power and sailboats that will traverse the Clear Lake channel.

https://www.kemahboardwalk.com/events. asp#11

Kemah Boarwalk. 6pm. All ages.

Breakfast with Santa (December 11,17,18, & 21-24)

Santa is stopping by the Aquarium this holiday season! Dine with him and our mascot, Sharkey, and enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet, exhibit discounts and more!

https://www.aquariumrestaurants.com/ downtownaquariumhouston/calendar. asp#11

Downtown Aquarium. Various times. All ages.

CONTEMPORARY WREATH-MAKING WORKSHOP

Create a contemporary spin on this traditional holiday decoration by learning how to make a festive and timeless wreath using a range of craft materials.

https://crafthouston.org/events/ contemporary-wreath-making-workshop-2/ Houston Center for Contemporary Craft 11am-1pm. All ages.

13th Annual Gingerbread Build-off

Competing teams will create their masterpieces using 100% edible materials (of which leftovers will be composted).

https://aiahouston.org/v/site-home/ Gingerbread-Build-Off/39/ Levy Park. 10am. All ages.

The Nutcracker Afternoon Tea

Enjoy cookies, fruit, finger sandwiches, punch, and of course, tea! The tea has become a family tradition for many and includes photo opportunities with a dancer from City Ballet’s The Nutcracker.

https://www.thegrand.com/the-nutcrackerafternoon-tea/

1894 The Grand Opera House 12:30pm. All ages.

Holiday with the Cranes (December 10-11)

Bird lovers can learn about them and see them up close. A presentation and selfguided field trips on the island’s West End is included.

galvestonnaturetourism.org

Galveston island Various times. Age: 10+

DECEMBER 11

Photos with Santa

Would you like a classic photo with Santa but not ready to have the long lines at the mall? Jingle all the way to the square and get festive.

https://www.sugarlandtownsquare.com/ christmas-in-the-square/ Sugarland Town Square. 1-5pm. All ages.

Sunday Nights in the Plaza

Enjoy live music each Sunday with a line-up of inspirational artists.

https://www.citycentrehouston.com/events City Centre. 6-9pm. All ages.

DECEMBER 12

Holiday Movie Under the Moon: The Grinch

It's a holiday tradition! Bring your family, friends and lawn chairs to the Plaza to enjoy a holiday favorite and animated classic.

sugarlandtownsquare.com

Sugarland Town square. 6:30pm. All ages.

Family Storytime & Craft

Enjoy a literary experience! Spend the morning with a story followed by a craft that accompanies the reading. All craft supplies are included.

Levyparkhouston.org

Levy Park. 10am. Age: 2-5.

The Menil Collection

Take a walk around the cluster of buildings that make up the museum art which spans over 30 acres in the heart of Houston. Between the various buildings that hold art collections, there are several green spaces beautified by contemporary sculptures.

menil.org

The Menil collection

All day. every day. All ages.

DECEMBER 14

Take a serene walk with the kids through the Japanese Garden in Hermann Park to chill out on a sunny afternoon. It’s stone paths, waterfalls, bridges and sculptures make for a nice stroll.

hermannpark.org

Japanese Garden in Hermann Park All day. All ages

DECEMBER 15

Vivaldi Music Academy

Explore musical instruments and take up a new instrument in the New Year.

https://www.sugarlandtownsquare.com/ christmas-in-the-square/

Sugarland Town Square 11-11:45am. All ages

Very Merry POPS (Dec. 15 – 18)

This year, we need a little holiday cheer more than ever, and the Houston Symphony’s Very Merry POPS is the perfect way to get in the spirit of the season! Michael Krajewski leads treasured carols and fun-filled favorites that will have you humming along.

houstonsymphony.org

Jones Hall or Livestreamed from your home 7:30pm or 2:30pm. All ages.

Ticket prices vary

Movie screening: Shaft

In the iconic film that helped to launch the blaxploitation genre, private eye John Shaft is hired to rescue the kidnapped daughter of a Harlem mob boss.

https://www.mfah.org/films

Museum of Fine Arts screening room 7pm. All ages.

DECEMBER 16

Mistletoe Square (every Friday until December 30)

There's no doubt that the holidays are a magical time! But we have to wonder, what are they like around the world? Every Friday, enjoy live music that showcases winter holidays around the world.

https://marketsquarepark.com/calendar/ Market Square 6-9pm. All ages

Movie Under the Moon: Nutcracker with Live Symphony

Enjoy a classic movie to get into the spirit of the holidays.

https://www.sugarlandtownsquare.com/ christmas-in-the-square/

Sugarland Town Square 6-7:30pm. All ages.

DECEMBER 17

Family Capoeira

Family Capoeira class is a unique AfroBrazilian martial art that develops discipline, coordination, strength, and rhythm. Instruction is provided by the Brazilian Cultural Institute and is open to families of all sizes and skill levels.

https://midtownhouston.com/ Midtown Park 10am. All ages

Stearman Santa at the Lone Star Flight Museum!

Santa decided t give his reindeer some rest and asked if he could borrow our PT-17 Stearman for a Houston visit! Guests will be able to take photos with Santa and our Stearman, make ornaments and coloring pages.

lonestarflight.org

Lone Star Flight Museum

Activities and events are at various times, check the website for details.

All ages. Admission ticket is required. Rock the Dock Holiday Party Rock the holidays with great music, ugly sweater contest and more.

https://www.kemahboardwalk.com/events. asp#11

Kemah Boardwalk. All day. All ages

Animation Show of Shows (December 18 & 22)

The “best of the best” animated short films from around the world bring an array of highly imaginative works to the big screen.

https://www.mfah.org/films

Museum of Fine Arts Houston 2pm. All ages

A CHRISTMAS TO REMEMBER (December 17-18)

Celebrate Christmas at the brand new, Broadway-style presentation of “A Christmas to Remember”! Meet the infamous Ebby Neezer on her Christmas Eve journey filled with twists and turns that lead to an extraordinary Christmas miracle!

https://www.second.org/event/a-christmasto-remember/

Second Baptist Woodway campus 3pm & 6pm. All ages. Tickets start at $10.

Photos with Santa

DECEMBER 18

Would you like a classic photo with Santa but not ready to have the long lines at the mall? Jingle all the way to the square and get festive.

https://www.sugarlandtownsquare.com/ christmas-in-the-square/

Sugarland Town Square 1-5pm. All ages

Menorah Lighting

Fun for the whole family! Bounce houses, face painting & balloon art, fresh donuts, craft for the kids, juggler performance, greeting by dignitaries, music, dancing and more.

https://www.sugarlandtownsquare.com/ christmas-in-the-square/

Sugarland Town Square 1-5:00pm. All ages.

Sunday

Nights in the Plaza

Enjoy live music each Sunday with a line-up of inspirational artists.

https://www.citycentrehouston.com/events

City Centre 6-9pm. All ages

Santa Hustle Half Marathon & 5K

It’s not just a race. It’s a magical experience. With festive music, outrageous holiday decorations, and thousands of runners dressed like Santa, come join the race.

https://santahustle.com/galveston/

8am for half marathon, 8:15am for full marathon, 7:30am for the Kids Dash. All ages.

Jingle on the Boardwalk

Welcome the season with Santa, holiday music, movies, a toy drive & more!

https://www.kemahboardwalk.com/events. asp#11

Kemah Boardwalk All day. All ages

DECEMBER 19

Nature Hikes at the Arboretum

Venture out for a family-friendly hike through the Houston Arboretum. Explore the ecosystems to learn about the local wildlife, plants, and natural history. houstonarboretum.org

Houston Arboretum and Nature Center All day. All ages.

Waugh Bridge Bat Colony

An estimated 300,000 Mexican free-tailed bats emerge from the Waugh Bridge every evening at dusk to find food.

Buffalobayou.org

Waugh Bridge Dusk. All ages

DECEMBER 20

Family Storytime & Craft

Enjoy a literary experience! Spend the morning with a story followed by a craft that accompanies the reading. All craft supplies are included.

Levyparkhouston.org

Levy Park 10am. Age: 2-5

CHANUKAH CELEBRATION

Gather for prayer, song, and to celebrate with the community.

https://www.citycentrehouston.com/event/ chanukah-celebration

City Centre 6-7pm. All ages

Mistletoe Square

(every Friday until December 30)

There's no doubt that the holidays are a magical time! But we have to wonder, what are they like around the world? Every Friday, enjoy live music that showcases winter holidays around the world.

https://marketsquarepark.com/calendar/

Market Square. 6-9pm. All ages

Movie Under the Moon: Christmas Vacation

Head over to the square with family, friends and neighbors to watch a festive holiday movie.

https://www.sugarlandtownsquare.com/ christmas-in-the-square/

Sugarland Town Square 7-8:30pm. All ages

Polar Pass (December 23-26)

Join us for a long weekend of fun! Weekend Adventure Pass Valid for FOUR days instead of three! Thursday – Sunday for $49.99.

https://www.kemahboardwalk.com/events. asp#11

Kemah Boardwalk All day. All ages.

43rd annual Prestonwood Forest's Nite of Lights

(through Dec.27)

Prestonwood Forest invites you to judge which streets and houses have the best and most award-worthy holiday decorations.

prestonwoodforestonline.com

Prestonwood forest neighborhood 6pm. All ages

Christmas Eve Merry Christmas

Winter Solstice Sound Bath and Candle Labyrinth Walk

Eight gifted sound healers will play glass bowls until 7 p.m. to mark the occasion. A labyrinth constructed by Houston artist Reginald Adams and comprised of batteryoperated candles will be available for those who wish to take part in a solstice tradition.

https://www.discoverygreen.com/event/ winter-solstice-sound-bath-and-candlelabyrinth- walk-pnc-bank/ Discovery Green 3:47-9:30pm. All ages

White Christmas at the Cockrell Butterfly Center

The Butterfly Center is undergoing a winter wonderland transformation just in time for the holiday season!

hmns.org

Museum of Natural Science All day. Every day. All ages. Admission ticket starts at $12.

Family Storytime & Craft

Enjoy a literary experience! Spend the morning with a story followed by a craft that accompanies the reading. All craft supplies are included.

Levyparkhouston.org

Levy Park 10am. Age: 2-5

Movies under the stars:

Lightyear

Bring family, friends and neighbors to watch this classic holiday movie.

https://marketsquarepark.com/calendar/ Market Square 7pm. All ages

Houston Japanese Garden

Mistletoe Square (every Friday until December 30)

There's no doubt that the holidays are a magical time! But we have to wonder, what are they like around the world? Every Friday, enjoy live music that showcases winter holidays around the world.

https://marketsquarepark.com/calendar/ Market Square. 6-9pm. All ages

DECEMBER 30

Movie Under the Moon: Christmas Vacation

Head over to the square with family, friends and neighbors to watch a festive holiday movie.

https://www.sugarlandtownsquare.com/ christmas-in-the-square/ Sugarland Town Square 7-8:30pm. All ages

Polar Pass (December 23-26)

Join us for a long weekend of fun! Weekend Adventure Pass Valid for FOUR days instead of three! Thursday – Sunday for $49.99.

https://www.kemahboardwalk.com/events. asp#11

Kemah Boardwalk All day. All ages.

DECEMBER 31

43rd annual Prestonwood Forest's Nite of Lights (through Dec.27)

Prestonwood Forest invites you to judge which streets and houses have the best and most award-worthy holiday decorations. prestonwoodforestonline.com

Prestonwood forest neighborhood 6pm. All ages Christmas Eve Merry Christmas

Family Storytime & Craft

Enjoy a literary experience! Spend the morning with a story followed by a craft that accompanies the reading. All craft supplies are included.

Levyparkhouston.org

Levy Park 10am. Age: 2-5

Movies under the stars: Lightyear Bring family, friends and neighbors to watch this classic holiday movie.

https://marketsquarepark.com/calendar/

Market Square 7pm. All ages

The Draughtsman’s Contract (December 30 & January 1)

As a young artist becomes entrenched in devious scheming in a country home, curious details emerge in his drawings that may reveal a murder.

https://www.mfah.org/films

Museum of Fine Arts Houston 6pm. All ages

Mistletoe Square (every Friday until December 30)

There's no doubt that the holidays are a magical time! But we have to wonder, what are they like around the world? Every Friday, enjoy live music that showcases winter holidays around the world.

https://marketsquarepark.com/calendar/

Market Square 6-9pm. All ages $5 General Admission EVERY Thursday at LSFM!

The Lone Star Flight Museum offers $5 general admission pricing to all visitors each Thursday!

https://lonestarflight.org/events/5thursdays-at-lsfm/

Lone Star Flight Museum. All day. All ages.

New Year’s Eve.

Noon Year’s Eve 2022

Enjoy face painting, temporary tattoo, balloon, and caricature artists.

https://www.citycentrehouston.com/event/ noon-years-eve-2022

City Centre. 11am-1pm. All ages.

NEW YEAR'S EVE CONCERT

It's going to be a fantastic evening of music and celebration for all ages to enjoy before venturing into Houston to view fireworks.

https://www.citycentrehouston.com/event/ new-years-eve-ning-concert

City Centre. 3-8pm. All ages.

New Year's Eve Family Celebration

Celebrate amongst colored fish and kidfriendly rides.

https://www.aquariumrestaurants.com/ downtownaquariumhouston/calendar. asp#11

Downtown Aquarium. All day. All ages.

Downtown City of Lights {side bar}

Get into the holiday mood and ring in the New Year with a downtown stroll-worthy family outing.

Plaza at Avenida – Deck the Trees and Live Music Instagram worthy photo opps and a concert series that benefits the Alley Theatre educational community.

Wortham Theater – Sugar Plum Plaza

This ode to a holiday classic also presents cheerful tunes while you gaze at its tremendous custom-built ornaments.

Main Street Square – Santa’s Village Get a photo with Kris Kringle every Friday and Saturday at 6pm at Santa’s Village which is centered by lit, 40-foot water bursts and a 250-foot long reflecting pool. Shop local at the market every Friday and Saturday.

Winter Wanderland on Bagby Street

100,000 twinkling lights, giant angel wings, constellation arches and a 80-foot light tunnel across the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts is pure joy for all ages.

Now Exhibiting

Museum of Fine Arts Houston www.mfah.org

Tues.-Wed. 10am-5pm., Thurs. 10am-9pm., Fri.-Sat. 10am-7pm., Sun. 12:15-7pm. $19 adult; $16 senior 65+, $12 children 13-18 and students (19+) (children 12 and under free).

FREE every Thursday 10am-9pm

The Sugar Shack

Barnes painted two versions of The Sugar Shack, which depicts dynamic, elongated figures dancing in a crowded Black music hall in segregated mid-century North Carolina.

Through December 31, 2022

Jennifer Steinkamp: The Seasons Marvel at the beautiful light-based installations that celebrate the ebb and flow of the natural world.

Through January 7, 2023

Houston Museum of Natural Science www.hmns.org

9am-5pm Mon-Sun $25 adult, $16 children 3-11, senior 62+ and college students FREE every Thursday 2-5pm

King Tut’s Tomb Discovery Experience

Experience the dark and winding tunnels that led to Tutankhamen’s burial chambers, explore the countless golden treasures he took with him into the afterworld, and explore the brightly colored, floor-to-ceiling hieroglyphics that detail his life and offer prayers to the gods to ensure a blessed life after death.

Through December 31, 2022

The Health Museum www.thehealthmuseum.org

Hours: Mon.-Sat. 9am-5pm., Thurs. 9am7pm., Sun. 12-5pm

Admission: $10 adult, $8 senior 65+, free for children under 2 FREE on Thursdays 2-7pm

DeBakey Cell Lab

Gear up with a lab coat, gloves and goggles and travel through experiment stations.

Holocaust Museum

www.hmh.org

Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9am-5pm., Sat. 10am5pm., Sun. 12-5pm

Admission: $22 adult, Seniors (age 65 and above) $16, $16 for active-duty military and AARP members. Free for children, students and college-level students with valid ID FREE admission on Sundays

HOPE: Stories of Houston Survivors

This annual exhibition offers a video introduction of Houston Holocaust Survivors featuring family members’ testimonies and clips of Survivors telling their stories. Family artifacts will also be showcased throughout the exhibition.

Through November 30, 2022

Charlotte Salomon: Life? Or Theatre?

Discover one of the most important and powerful achievements of the 20th century – the singular and complex artwork Life? Or Theatre? by German-Jewish artist, Charlotte Salomon – which through imagery and text tell the slightly fictionalized and theatrically imagined story of Salomon’s family.

Through December 4, 2022

HOPE: Stories of Houston Survivors

Family artifacts will also be showcased throughout the exhibition. Through January 29, 2023

Lone Star Flight Museum

Visit the aerospace museum and its 25 aircrafts.

www.lonestarflight.org

Aerospace Museum, Houston

Hours: Tues.—Sat. 9am-5pm, Sun. 12-5pm Admission: $14 child, $18 adult

The Texas Aviation Heritage Gallery A chronological walk through the history of aviation in Texas.

STAGE CENTER

A CHRISTMAS CAROL

Charles M. Schulz’s award-winning story has been a longstanding tradition, warming the hearts of millions of fans.

www.thegrand.com/calendar-of-events/ December 2-3, 2022

A Chrismas Carol Magic Music and Dickens

A Classic to get you in the mood for the holiday season.

www.alleytheatre.org/ through December 30, 2022

A Magical Cirque Christmas

The story jumps along the time spectrum with visits to the rollicking 1920s a la The Great Gatsby style, the rockabilly 1950s, the boogie-oogie 1970s, and a classic Victorian 1890s London reminiscent of Charles Dickens, and is accompanied by beautiful holiday music from each period.

www.smartfinancialcentre.net/event/ magical-cirque-christmas

December 29

A Texas Carol

The whole family is on the way to Mee-Maw Jane's East Texas ranch for what might be her last Christmas. The only problem--when the first group arrives, Mee-Maw is already gone!

www.adplayers.org

A.D Players at the George Theater Through December 23, 2022

Cinderella

The timeless magic of the romantic fairy tale of a prince and his Cinderella, and the hilarity of the silly stepsisters and their stepmother, will enchant audiences this holiday season.

www.mainstreettheater.com

Through December 23, 2022

El Milagro Del Recuerdo

A celebration of family and tradition, this timely story follows the lives of Laurentino, a bracero who returns from the United States to spend Christmastime with his family, and his wife Renata, who worries that his time away from home is changing him.

www.houstongrandopera.org/eventstickets/2022-23-season/el-milagro-delrecuerdo/

December 8-18

Mary Poppins

Spend a jolly holiday season with Theatre Under The Stars and this eye-popping, spectacular and wonder-filled production of the Disney classic.

www.tuts.com/shows/disneys-mary-poppins

Through December 24

CITY BALLET OF HOUSTON PRESENTS THE NUTCRACKER

The most celebrated holiday tradition. www.thegrand.com/calendar-of-events/ December 10-11, 2022

The Nutcracker

The grand sets. The stunning costumes. The iconic score. From snowflakes to sword fights to the Christmas tree that reaches the sky, The Nutcracker truly is the perfect holiday experience for the whole family.

www.houstonballet.org/seasontickets/ pdps/2022-2023/the-nutcracker/

Through December 27

Nutcracker

December 28

PANTO SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DORKS

This classic Brothers Grimm tale gets a Panto twist as Snow White finds herself banished by the Evil Queen and her hightech virtual assistant mirror. As she fumbles through Silicon Valley in search of help, she finds a team of dorky hackers.

Through December 24 www.stageshouston.com

THE WICKHAMS: CHRISTMAS AT PEMBERLEY

Continuing Jane Austen’s beloved Pride and Prejudice, the below stairs servants at the grand Pemberley estate find themselves in the midst of a holiday scandal.

www.mainstreettheater.com

Through December 18, 2022

Thanksgiving

You can make wonder happen.

There is nothing like the wonder of a young child. But not every child has the same access to education. We are working to change that by providing innovative learning opportunities for Houston’s most vulnerable 0-5-year olds.

If you share our passion for making wonder happen, we invite you to for Children with a year-end gift keyword “QualityED” to 41444.

Together, we can usher in a future bright with possibility for every child.

The holidays spring to life in ICE! at Gaylord Texan! Our signature attraction is a whimsical masterpiece of scenes from The Polar Express carved out of two million pounds of boldly colored ice.

NOV. 11 - JAN. 1

ChristmasAtGaylordTexan.com