Best Winter Things To Do in Houston

Winter brings a steady mix of winter activities and attractions in Houston, ranging from outdoor skating and light displays to long-running cultural events and seasonal festivals. The cooler weather makes it easier to explore parks, museums, and annual gatherings across the region. This list highlights real locations and established events so readers can easily plan what to visit during the winter months. Whether someone is looking for outdoor options or indoor programs, there are many choices available throughout the season.

Outdoor & Seasonal Activities

Ice at Discovery Green

During winter, the lake area converts into an outdoor rink that hosts open skating sessions. Visitors move along the rink under the downtown skyline in an organized setting.

Location: 1500 McKinney St, Houston
Time: November – January
Website: https://www.discoverygreen.com/signature-experiences/green-mountain-energy-ice-at-discovery-green

Zoo Lights

The zoo presents lighted paths, themed areas, and illuminated displays throughout the grounds. Guests follow marked walkways while viewing custom installations arranged for the season.

Location: 6200 Hermann Park Dr, Houston
Time: November – January
Website: https://www.houstonzoo.org/events/txu-energy-presents-zoo-lights

Thanksgiving Day Parade

The parade features floats, balloons, and marching bands proceeding through downtown streets. Spectators line the route to watch organized entries pass through designated blocks.

Location: Downtown Houston (starting near 901 Bagby St, Houston)
Time: November
Website: https://www.houstontx.gov/thanksgivingparade

Annual Candlelight Tour in the Park

Historic structures open for guided walkthroughs led by volunteers dressed in period attire. Guests move between buildings and observe traditional seasonal arrangements.

Location: 1000 Bagby St, Houston
Time: December
Website: https://www.heritagesociety.org/annual-candlelight-tour

Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern Tours

Guided tours lead visitors through the underground cistern while explaining its structure and past use. The walking platform allows guests to view the chamber from a stable pathway.

Location: 105 Sabine St, Houston
Website: https://buffalobayou.org/location/the-cistern

Annual Festivals & Winter Events

Dickens on the Strand

Street performers, vendors, and costumed participants organize activities inspired by Victorian-era London. Visitors walk through designated downtown Galveston streets featuring parades and staged entertainment.

Location: 21 -24 Street, Galveston, TX
Time: December
Website: https://www.galvestonhistory.org/events/dickens-on-the-strand

Tomball German Christmas Market & Festival

The market covers Tomball’s historic downtown area with music zones, crafts, and food vendors. Guests browse booths and visit entertainment areas set up along the streets.

Location: 201 S Elm St, Tomball, TX
Time: December
Website: https://tomballgermanfest.org/info

Annual Christmas Boat Lane Parade – Clear Lake & Kemah

Boats decorated with lights travel through the Clear Lake channel, passing viewing points along the shoreline. Spectators watch the procession from boardwalks and marinas.

Location: Start at Nassau Bay, Houston
Time: December
Website: https://clearlakearea.com/christmas-boat-parade

Tamale Festival Houston

Vendors serve tamales from different culinary traditions along with other regional foods. Attendees move between booths and live entertainment areas.

Location: 711 Milby Street, Houston
Time: December
Website: http://tamalefestivalhouston.com

Chevron Houston Marathon

Runners participate in multiple race distances while spectators observe from designated points. The route spans downtown and surrounding neighborhoods.

Location: Starting in Downtown Houston (near 901 Bagby St)
Time: January
Website: https://www.chevronhoustonmarathon.com

Martin Luther King Jr. Grande Parade

Bands, community organizations, and themed groups march through the parade route. Spectators watch from sidewalks along the procession.

Location: Starting Downtown Houston at San Jacinto and Peace Street
Time: January
Website: https://www.mlkgrandeparade.org

Texas Lunar New Year Houston

Cultural performances, vendor booths, and family zones represent various Asian communities. Visitors walk through festival sections that highlight traditions from multiple cultures.

Location: 1370 Southmore Blvd, Houston
Time: February
Website: https://www.visithoustontexas.com/events/annual-events/lunar-new-year-in-houston

Mardi Gras Galveston

Multiple parades and entertainment zones activate the downtown Galveston district. Guests watch floats, bands, and themed groups move through established routes.

Location: The Strand Historic District, Galveston
Time: February
Website: https://www.mardigrasgalveston.com

Holiday in the Gardens – Moody Gardens

Moody Gardens arranges themed exhibits, illuminated zones, indoor attractions, and seasonal sculptures. Families walk through each area following simple pathways.

Location: 1 Hope Blvd, Galveston, TX
Time: November – January
Website: https://www.moodygardens.com/holiday-season

Rothko Chapel Annual Interfaith Thanksgiving Service

Representatives from different religions gather for a shared community service. Attendees sit inside the chapel in a quiet, reflective setting.

Location: Covenant Church 4949 Caroline St. Houston
Time: November
Website: https://www.rothkochapel.org/experience/events/event/35th-annual-houston-interfaith-thanksgiving-service-at-covenant-church

The Nutcracker Market

The market features rows of vendor booths offering home décor, clothing, accessories, and seasonal goods. Visitors walk along wide aisles organized by category, making it easy to browse items at their own pace.

Location: 3 NRG Park, Houston
Time: November
Website: https://www.houstonballet.org/support-us/special-events/nutcracker-market

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