As the holidays draw near, many people in the Houston, Texas, area are looking for new events and activities to add to their list of traditions. Check out these spots to get into the holiday spirit.
Zoo Lights
Starting in mid-November, the Houston Zoo transforms into a holiday spectacular with amazing displays of lights and other decorations. The event runs through mid-January, so you can visit the zoo before or after Christmas to see more than 2 million twinkling lights. Visitors can also walk through the animal enclosures, and while some of the animals will be asleep, certain types are more active at night.
The event also includes a holiday train, an interactive talking zebra, an Enchanted Forest, and Holly Berry, a classic Cadillac that puts on a light show to music. Admission is between $10 and $20 per person.
Festival of Lights
The Festival of Lights at Moody Gardens is a favorite among families in the area. It’s one of the largest holiday celebrations within the region, showing off more than a million lights with 100 animated displays that are set to music. After you walk through the lights, visit the outdoor ice skating rink, take a photo with Santa Claus, and enjoy a ride down the Arctic Slide.
The Festival of Lights takes place daily from 6 to 10 p.m. through January 8, 2017. Admission is $10.95 with ice skating, and the arctic slide costs $7 per single ride, $20 for 10 rides, or $25 for an all-day ride pass. If you visit the festival on a Thursday, bring a nonperishable food item to receive two-for-one admission. Donated items will go to local food banks.
Discovery Green
If you’re looking for outdoor attractions, pay a visit to Discovery Green, the spacious park in Downtown Houston. There is something here for everyone, from a massive canopy of LED lights to a display of lighted colorful bouquets of flowers. You’ll also find an outdoor ice skating rink, suitable for all ages. Admission to the park is free, although skating costs between $8 and $17, which includes skate rental.
Alley Theatre
Catch a holiday-themed show at the Alley Theatre, where you’ll find two options that run through the end of December. “A Christmas Carol – A Ghost Story of Christmas” is better for families, telling Charles Dickens’ classic tale of the power of the Christmas season, while “The Santaland Diaries” is an adults-only comedy that brings the words of David Sedaris to life. Tickets range from $35 to $130, depending on the date and seating area.
The Nutcracker
This ballet performance is another favorite among those who enjoy dance and the well-known story of Clara and her journey through the Kingdom of Sweets and the Land of Snow. The show takes place at the Wortham Theater Center on December 5 and 6, 12 and 13, 18 through 24, 26, and 27. Tickets start at $39.
With activities for people of all ages taking place in Houston this December, it’s easy to find events and happenings that will become new favorites among your family and friends.
This photo, “festival of lights Dec 23rd 2010,” by Mark Taylor Cunningham used under CC BY 2.o. “festival of lights Dec 23rd 2010” is licensed under CC BY 2.0 by Gay Family Kia.
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