Making Spirits Bright
With the holiday season upon us and as we celebrate FOUR YEARS since we launched Memorial Lifestyle Magazine, we’re thrilled to bring you this very special Holiday Issue! This year, we’re featuring everything to make your celebrations bright, cozy, and unforgettable.
Our cover story is all about party planning magic. We sat down with the creative minds at Little Coterie to get their best tips on throwing a hol iday party that everyone will remember. From dazzling decor to party-friendly bites, this feature will inspire you to gather your loved ones and celebrate in style.
As we settle into the season, what’s better than warming up with comfort food? In our Warm and Cozy feature, some of Houston’s top chefs share their favorite holiday recipes—just the thing to add a personal, gourmet touch to your gatherings. Prepare to bookmark these cozy recipes!
And if gift-giving is on your mind, you’ll love our Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide Whether you're looking for the perfect gift for a friend or something special for family, we’ve got ideas to make your holiday shopping easy and thoughtful.
In the spirit of giving, we’re also excited to present Making Spirits Bright, our spotlight on CityLifestyle's National Giving Campaign. Each year, this initiative supports individuals and families in need nationwide. We invite you to be part of it by submitting a local nomination—your generosity might just make someone’s holiday season a little brighter.
We hope this issue fills your season with warmth, joy, and festive inspiration. Enjoy every page, and here’s to a wonderful holiday season from all of us to you!
With heartfelt gratitude,
SUZANNE SCHAKETT, PUBLISHER @MEMORIALLIFESTYLE
December 2024
PUBLISHER
Suzanne Schakett | suzanne.schakett@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Gabi De la Rosa | gabi.delarosa@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Kayla Bokemeyer | kayla.bokemeyer@citylifestyle.com
SALES DIRECTOR
Suzanne Schakett | suzanne.schakett@citylifestyle.com
SALES SUPPORT COORDINATOR
Savannah Schakett
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray
HOUSTON METHODIST LEADING CARE
ASK US WHY...
ORANGE IS THE NEW SOLD
At Energy Realty, we blend local expertise with global perspectives to provide an exceptional real estate experience tailored to you. Led by a diverse team of professionals who understand both the market and the community, we are dedicated to creating meaningful connections and delivering results that end in elevated experience, every time!
Discover why ‘Orange is the New Sold’ isn’t just our tagline – it’s our promise of a superior real estate journey. From the first meeting to the final handshake, feel the energy difference.
its
inside the issue
DECEMBER 2024
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Diane Cowen, Denzil Hollingsworth, and Katherine Bryan at Houston Design District’s Fall Design Week. 2: Esmeralda De la Cruz, Lorena Gomez, Vicky Dominguez at the El Centro de Corazón luncheon. 3: Amy Pierce, Elizabeth Swift, Lisa Duchman, Rachel Bagwell at the Memorial Herman Foundation dinner. 4: Andrew Mailhes, Courtney Zavala, Tim Kelley at the Houston Professional Fire Fighters Association Charitable Foundation Gala. 5: Houston Design District’s Inside Design Panelists Oliver Furth, Katherine Bryan, Megan Hotze, Kara Childress, and Bill Stubbs. 6: Lizzy Bentley, founder of City Boots and Jolie Helms, founder of Sapana in Round Top. 7: Cari Goeke and Abby Byrom-Botello at the City Boot and Sapana dinner in Round Top.
DANIEL ORTIZ DANIEL ORTIZ
business monthly
ROUNDUP OF
MetroNational donates over $1M to Spring Branch-Memorial Sports Association
MetroNational, the privately-held real estate investment, development, and management company, is proud to continue to support Spring Branch-Memorial Sports Association (SBMSA), a nonprofit organization that provides children with the facilities and resources needed to grow through sports, through a donation of over $1 million. Founded in 1961, SBMSA’s structured sports programs help over 9,700 children across seven sports learn valuable life skills such as leadership and sportsmanship.
Energy Realty Welcomes Relocation Expert
Energy Realty is thrilled to welcome relocation expert Renee Eads to their team, further strengthening their commitment to Houston’s diverse community. With over 30 years of experience, Renee’s expertise will elevate their relocation services, empowering agents to better assist clients moving to Texas. This addition comes as Energy Realty ranked second in Houston for both sales volume and transactions in the 2024 RealTrends rankings—a testament to their team’s dedication and client satisfaction.
Toca Madera Launches Brunch
Toca Madera Houston recently rolled out weekend brunch. Featured Toca Madera brunch items include sweet entrees: Tres Leches French Toast, Vanilla Cast Iron Pancakes, and savory: Breakfast Enchiladas, Breakfast Burritos plus featured cocktails and mimosa kits.
Scan to read more
Photography courtesy of SBMSA
Photography courtesy of Energy Realty
Photography by Louie Victa
North Houston's City Place Debuts "As Water Falls" Art Installation
Designed by Montreal-based digital art studio Iregular, As Water Falls is a dazzling, multi-faceted piece that functions at the intersection of art and technology. The large-scale, virtual waterfall with accompanying soundscape was specially reconceived for its exhibition at City Place. This is the first time the piece has been realized in a cube format and encompasses four, ever-changing LED displays – each interactive by touch – that allow participants to alter the digital cascades and sounds.
Photography by Nicki Evans
The Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide
HOLIDAY SHOPPING MADE EASY WITH OUR TOP PICKS FOR 2024.
The holiday season is here, bringing cozy sweaters, sparkles, and festive cheer—and let’s not forget gift-giving! If your shopping list is a long one, Memorial Lifestyle has you covered with our carefully curated gift guides for 2024. From men and women to kids and teens, there’s something for everyone. We’ve handpicked only the gifts we truly love, so you can find the perfect present for every taste, occasion, and budget. Whether heartwarming or practical, these gifts are sure to make life a little more beautiful.
1. Gorjana Lab Grown Diamonds, $500-$1,750, gorjana.com | 2. Lucchese Pewter Metallic Pris Boot, $595, lucchese.com | 3. Uncle Nearest 1884 Small Batch Whiskey + Crystal Glasses, $121, reservebar.com | 4. Sapana Dumpling Bag, $88, sapanadreams.com | 5. Zadok Jewelers Yee Haw Diamond Stud Earrings, $855, zadok.com | 6. City Tote by City Boots, $450, cityboots.com | 7. Gucci Horsebit 1953 Loafer, $990, gucci.com | 8. Léránt Certified International Nutcracker Plates, $15, leranthouston.com | 9. Creed Large Travel Companion, $765, creedboutique.com
1. Memobottle, $25, memobottle.us | 2. TheraIce Sleep Mask + Cooling Gel, $29.95, theraice.com | 3. Reveka Skincare Tea Tree + Peppermint Body Bar (set of four), $39.99, revekaskincare.com | 4. Woxer Boxers and Bralettes, $20 - $28, woxer.com | 5. Disco Chain by OXB Jewelry, $92, shopoxb.com | 6. Pax Cocktail & Mocktail Mix Variety Pack, $19.99, drinkpax.com | 7. Baloo Living Paloma French Linen Robe, $229, balooliving.com | 8. Cirque du Soleil Echo Tickets, Starting at $49, cirquedusoleil.com | 9. Tommy Bahama Nylon Duffle Bag, $159, tommybahama.com
1. Hugimal Weighted Plush, $64, hugimalsworld.com | 2. The Unofficial Disney Parks Holidays Cookbook, $22.99, simonandschuster.com | 3. Loop Lasso, $39.99, looplaboratories.com | 4. Dios Mio Party Game, $25, fitzgames.com | 5. Protect Hair Tie Bracelet by K’lani, $19.99, wearklani.com | 7. Taco vs. Burrito, $19.99, tacovsburrito.com | 8. Crazy Aaron’s 2024 Advent Calendar, $40, crazyaarons.com | 9. Little English Fire Truck Sweater, $89, shopfrommarfa.com
PREMIUM CARE, HOME COMFORT
Amanecia Health offers mobile and telehealth urgent care services led by a board-certified Emergency Medicine physician, Lauren Leavitt, M.D. We also provide virtual weight management consultations, using GLP-1 medications, semaglutide and tirzepatide. Patients enjoy direct access and communication with a physician, no memberships, and no hidden fees—straightforward, convenient professional care.
Telehealth visits start at $100 and in person visits at $200. Complementary weight management consultations.
www.amaneciahealth.com | 713.364.5590
V Amanecia_Health B Amanecia_Health
the life of your generator with a
Texas Elite Generators, Inc. is now offering 24/7 Remote Monitoring on all generators. In the race to provide the best possible service for you, this 24/7 continuous monitoring system takes the lead.
Remote monitoring represents the best way to detect the operating condition of your generator. This system will be able to detect and provide notification of a failure in real time.
Protect your investment with affordable generator monitoring solutions that are efficient and at the same time cost-effective. Remote monitoring prevents 95% of “fail-to-start” situations, including, but not limited to:
• Battery Voltage
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• Fuel Status • Missed Exercise
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The Party LIFE OF
by
Photo
Josh & Dana Fernandez
Little Coterie offers five tips on
how to throw a memorable holiday party.
ARTICLE BY MEMORIAL LIFESTYLE STAFF
Trees, tinsel, menorahs, mistletoe—whatever brings the season's spirit to life, this time of year offers many ways to celebrate. For those who live for winter festivities, planning a holiday gathering that's as memorable as it is meaningful is a top priority. According to Little Coterie, one of Houston's premiere party-planners, this season's holiday trends lean toward a well-planned but relaxed evening.
Photo by Harlow & May Studios
Led by founder Courtney Paddock, Little Coterie knows something about throwing a great event. Here, she shares five simple ideas to help make your holiday party unforgettable. From food and drinks to décor and entertainment, she has advice for it all. So, if you're ready to host friends and family with a bit of extra flair, Little Coterie has you covered. Let these expert tips inspire you to create a warm, welcoming space filled with holiday cheer.
GET THOSE INVITATIONS OUT EARLY
If you're like me, your holiday schedule is likely almost full. With kids' activities and family obligations, it takes a lot of work to think about adding something else to the December calendar. That's why sending an invite in advance is so important. Whether it's a classic paper invitation, a Paperless Post, or a text to the group asking to Save the Date - the earlier you invite, the better your attendance will be.
PLAN AND PREP
Write out your menu on a piece of paper. Decide if you want to cook, order in, or have a combo of both. Will it be a plated dinner or a buffet? Will you have a full bar or just wine and bubbles? Do you need some fresh candles or a centerpiece? Think through the experience and prepare accordingly. Pro tip: Get someone to help pick up throughout the party, especially if you use china. Otherwise, you will be stuck with a heavy load of dishes late at night or the following day. No one likes waking up to a pile of dirty plates. While prepping, clean up (and clean out) as much as possible before the big day.
SET THE AMBIANCE
What kind of atmosphere will your party have? Will there be formal china or fun and festive vibes? Maybe a combination? Make sure you have a killer playlist to match the mood. We love a good holiday jazz playlist. (Does Leon Bridges have a holiday album yet?)
Photo by Josh & Dana Fernandez
Photo by Harlow & May Studios
Photo by Harlow & May Studios
Photo by Harlow & May Studios
Since it's usually warm during Houston's holiday season, turn down the AC in preparation for the impending body heat. Use your holiday decor, light your favorite holiday candle (Nest Holiday and Christian Tortu Forets are some of our favorites), dim the lights, and bring out fresh hand towels for your powder room. If it happens to be chilly (fingers crossed), light the fireplace.
CONSIDER THE KIDDOS
Will you be inviting friends with kids to hang out with your children, or are you sending them to the grandparents'
house for the evening? What will they eat, and what activities will you have to keep them busy during dinner? Get them settled before you sit down to dine so everyone can relax and enjoy the meal.
RELAX AND RELISH IN THE SEASON
Your guests will vibe off your energy. Friends will appreciate it and feel the same way if you are casual, happy, and chill. If you're stressed, they will pick up on that, too. Be yourself and enjoy this special time of year with friends and family. littlecoterie.com
Photo by Daria Ratliff
Magical Houston
CHECK OUT THIS ROUNDUP OF TOP SPOTS TO RELAX AND CELEBRATE THE SEASON.
ARTICLE BY MEMORIAL LIFESTYLE STAFF
The Galveston Historical Society will present Dickens on the Strand, December 6-8 in Galveston.
HOUSTON ZOO LIGHTS
‘Tis the season for one of Houston’s most beloved holiday traditions; TXU Energy presents Zoo Lights at Houston Zoo is back! Tickets are available online now. Through January 5, guests can take in the sights and sounds of the season as they stroll through the transformed winter wonderland. They will enjoy the beautiful Zoo grounds illuminated with earth-friendly LED bulbs, take photos in front of this year’s new Whimsical Wildlife tree, and sip hot chocolate at one of the s’mores-making stations. houstonzoo.org/zoolights
HOUSTON BALLET NUTCRACKER
Experience the ultimate holiday enchantment with Stanton Welch’s The Nutcracker, a cherished Houston tradition. After the annual Stahlbaum Christmas party, embark on a journey through the dazzling Land of Snow to the radiant and jubilant Kingdom of Sweets alongside Clara, Drosselmeyer, and the Prince. Witness their reunion with the Sugar Plum Fairy amidst the clouds, where true magic unfolds. houstonballet.org
HOUSTON BOTANIC GARDEN RADIANT NATURE
The holiday season begins with Radiant Nature, an installation at Houston Botanic Garden featuring 50 large-scale Chinese lantern displays, including a 200foot dragon and a 12-foot peacock. Open weekends and select weeknights through February 23, it celebrates nature’s beauty and holidays. The event includes an interactive zone, food, and drinks and is wheelchair accessible. hbg.org
Photo courtesy of Houston Zoo
Houston Ballet Principal Yuriko Kajiya as the Sugar Plum Fairy and First Soloist Gian Carlo Perez. Photo courtesy of Houston Ballet
Photo courtesy of Houston Botanic Garden
MAGICAL WINTER LIGHTS
Magical Winter Lights celebrates its 10th anniversary at the Fort Bend County Fairgrounds through January 5, 2025. The new location offers expanded space, more parking, and new lantern displays, creating an enhanced experience. Highlights include larger-thanlife displays, a returning acrobatic show, iconic attractions like the grand entrance castle, a dinosaur exhibit, Houston-themed displays, and a family-friendly carnival. magicalwinterlights.com
DISCOVERY GREEN
Discovery Green is the place to be this season. Atlas by Jen Lewin and Green Mountain Energy Ice return to Discovery Green this winter. Atlas, featuring 24 handcrafted glowing moths, will be on display from November 15 to February 16. New activities include Bumper Cars on Ice, available from January 6-19. Special Skaters nights on December 3 and January 28 offer exclusive skating for individuals with disabilities and their families. discoverygreen.com
MOODY GARDENS
Moody Gardens transforms into a festive wonderland with Holiday in the Gardens from November 23 to January 1. New attractions include Ice Land: Pole-toPole, featuring two million pounds of ice sculptures and a giant ice slide. Also debuting is *Holiday Fantasy: A Live Show Spectacular*, blending Broadway-style performances with acrobatics and illusions. Returning favorites include the Festival of Lights and Shiver’s Ice Bar. moodygardens.com
Photo courtesy of Moody Gardens
Photo courtesy of Discovery Green
Photo courtesy of Magical Winter Lights
MARTHANN MASTERSON
Warm & Cozy
COZY UP WITH RECIPES FROM TOP HOUSTON CHEFS.
ARTICLE BY MEMORIAL LIFESTYLE STAFF
We love cooking all year, but there’s just something special about whipping up meals in the winter. The oven heats up the kitchen, and the dishes that come out are all about comfort. Thick creamy soups, easy casseroles, and hearty baked pasta— exactly what you need when it’s chilly outside. To help you stay cozy, we’ve rounded up our favorite recipes from some of Houston’s best chefs, so you’ve got plenty of dinner inspiration all season.
Photo by Suu Khin
Ingredients
Carrots
2 pounds peeled baby carrots
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tbsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp tandoori masala
Directions
1. In a mixing bowl, toss all the ingredients together.
2. Roast in oven at 350*f for 12 minutes.
3. Remove from oven.
Honey Glaze
• 1 pound honey
• Zest from one orange
• 15 grams of grated ginger
• 1.5 tbsp tandoori masala
Directions
1. Place all ingredients in a pot.
2. Bring to a simmer.
3. Remove from heat and let rest.
4. Store at room temperature.
Spiced Yogurt
• 1 tub Greek yogurt
• 3 tbsp Madras curry powder
• 5 tbsp honey
• 3/4 cup lemon juice
• 1 tbsp kosher salt
Directions
1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl.
2. Store in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Plate Assembly
1. Grill pre-roasted carrots until nice and caramelized with some slight char.
2. Toss grilled carrots with one cup of honey glaze and two oz. of unsalted butter.
3. On a plate, place a generous amount of spiced yogurt and carrots onto the plate.
4. Drizzle a bit of the residual glaze from the bowl.
5. Garnish with toasted almonds and blood orange pieces.
botbfood.com
BELLY OF THE BEAST TANDOORI CARROTS
Belly of the Beast, Tandoori Carrots.
Photo by Thuy An Nguyen
Ingredients
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 1 tbsp whole milk yogurt
• 1 tsp chopped oregano
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 1 ½ tbsp black pepper
• 1 tsp sumac or lemon zest
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp honey
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 pound chicken thighs
• 5-8 wooden skewers
Directions
1. Prepare the marinade by adding the first nine ingredients together and mixing until combined.
2. Cut chicken thigh into 1 ½ inch pieces and place in a bowl with marinade and onions.
3. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, but can be marinated overnight.
4. Soak wooden skewers in water for 30-45 minutes.
5. Thread marinated chicken and onion through the prepared skewers.
6. Souvlaki can be cooked on a grill or griddle until nicely browned and cooked through.
kritikitchen.com
Kriti Kitchen, Chicken Souvlaki. Photo courtesy of Kriti Kitchen
Ingredients
For Marinate
• 2 lbs pork belly
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 2 tbsp grated ginger
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp ground black pepper
• 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
• 1 tsp salt
For Braise
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 3 tbsp sugar
• ½ cup chopped onion
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 6 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed
• 12 pearl onions
• 2 green onions, chopped
Directions
For Marinade
1. Cut pork belly into 1.5-inch cubes.
2. Put the pork in a big bowl. Add and massage all the herbs, spices, and seasonings to the pork.
3. Let the pork marinate for at least one hour.
For Braise
1. Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over low heat. Sprinkle the sugar and stir continuously until caramelized.
2. Add and sear the pork on all sides. Stir in the chopped onions and garlic.
3. Season with soy sauce and add enough water to fully submerge the pork belly.
4. Turn the heat up to high and bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce it to medium-low for a slow simmer.
5. Cover the pot and braise the pork for about 90 minutes. Stir two or three times in between and adjust the water to prevent the bottom from burning.
6. When the pork belly is tender and almost all the braising liquid has evaporated, add the pearl onions and cook for about five minutes. The sauce needs to be reduced to a thick glaze consistency.
7. Remove the pot from heat, sprinkle the chopped spring onions, and serve with rice.
theburmalicious.com
BURMALICIOUS BY SUU BURMESE CARAMELIZED PORK BELLY
Burmalicious by Suu, Burmese Caramelized Pork Belly. Photo by Suu Khin
Ingredients
For latkes
• 1 large russet potato (8-12 oz), grated
• 3 fresh carrots (about .75 pounds), grated
• 1 fresh turnip (.75-.85 pounds), grated
• ¼ cup chopped kale (½ inch pieces)
• 1 medium white onion, (diced to ¼ size)
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• ½ cup flour
• 1 tbsp kosher salt
• 1 tbsp + ¼ cup canola oil
For topping
• 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp garlic chives (finely chopped)
Garnish
• ½ cup chopped parsley or oregano
Directions
1. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a 12” skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onions and sauté until crispy—careful not to burn.
3. Use a spatula to drain and cool the crisp onions on a paper towel. Then, turn off the heat.
4. In a medium bowl, stir together the grated potatoes, carrots, and turnips, chopped kale, and the cooled onion.
5. Add the beaten eggs to the veggies and stir to incorporate.
6. In a small bowl, stir the salt and flour together. Add the veggie mixture, stirring until fully incorporated. Set aside.
7. Heat the oven to 300 degrees.
8. Line a sheet pan with parchment. Place a rack over another sheet pan.
9. Press the veggie mixture into a ¼ cup measuring cup. Reverse onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining latke mix. You should have about 14 mounds.
10. Stir together the topping ingredients in a small bowl and set aside.
11. Add the ¼ cups of oil to your skillet and set over medium-high heat (hold your hand a few inches above—you should feel the heat).
12. Use a spatula to transfer a mound of latke mixture to the skillet. Press down with the spatula to flatten.
13. Repeat with three more mounds.
14. Cook on one side until golden brown, four to five minutes.
15. Slide the spatula underneath and flip the latkes over. Cook on the other side until golden brown, another three to four minutes.
16. Transfer cooked latkes to the rack set over a baking sheet and place in the oven to keep warm until serving.
17. To serve, arrange the latkes on a platter, top each with a teaspoon of topping, and sprinkle with chopped herbs.
HOPE FARMS VEGGIE LATKE
hopefarmshtx.org
Hope Farms, Veggie Latke. Photo courtesy of Hope Farms
From
Making Spirits
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.com
DECEMBER 2024
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
DECEMBER 1ST
A Christmas Carol
Alley Theater | 7:00 PM
Ever since Charles Dickens first penned A Christmas Carol in 1843, it has seen myriad stage adaptations and the popularity of this tale of redemption and second chances has seemingly never waned. From stage to screen, opera to one-man show, it is one of the most influential Christmas shows and a traditional holiday outing for most of us.
DECEMBER 4TH
Justin Timberlake
Toyota Center | 8:00 PM
Admit it; you loved Justin Timberlake as a member of pop-powerhouse NSYNC. Now, as a solo performer, Justin Timberlake has hit it big with songs like Cry Me a River, Like I Love You, Mirrors and many more! The prince of pop has announced his first tour since 2019's The Man of The Woods Tour.
DECEMBER 7TH
Houston Symphony - A Viennese Waltz Christmas
Jones Hall | 7:30 PM
Houston Symphony Orchestra celebrate the holiday season with a trip to Vienna, performing a selection of the greatest Viennese Waltzes in the classical canon by Johann and and Josef Strauss! A joyful musical tradition, each Waltz is 10-minutes long or less, making it the perfect introduction to the orchestra for everyone.
Nov 16 – Dec 29
Memorial City Mall, Houston, TX
CONTINUED
DECEMBER 9TH
Yo-Yo Ma
Jones Hall | 7:30 PM
REAL HOLIDAY
MAGIC IS COMING
A FESTIVE NEW IMMERSIVE HOLIDAY LIGHT EXPERIENCE
Needing almost no introduction, multiple Grammy-winning cellist YoYo Ma is arguably classical music's biggest star. The American virtuoso performs all over the world to soldout houses and remains one of the best-selling recording artists in the classical field. His versatility, energy, and pure love of creating and performing exquisite music make him a favorite for audiences of all ages.
DECEMBER 10TH
Frozen
Sarofim Hall | 7:30 PM
TICKETS ON SALE NOW
There's an icy treat in store for audiences this season! Bringing the stunning landscapes of Arandelle to the stage, join Anna, Elsa, Olaf, and more for this exciting local production of Disney's mammoth hit. With a newly conceived staging that includes glittering new sets and costumes, this is set to be all the fun of the movie and then some.
DECEMBER 12TH
Kenny G. Holiday Show
Smart Financial Center | 7:30 PM
Join legendary saxophonist Kenny G. as he hits the road on his fantastically festive Holiday Hits Show! Hear your favorite Christmas tunes like never before as the celebrated Kenny G gives some of the world's classics get a Jazz twist.
SCAN FOR INSPIRATION
