Christmas Day in Houston doesn’t just mean unwrapping presents and devouring sweet potato pie—it’s also a great time to explore the city and create new traditions. Whether you’re looking to entertain visiting family, keep the kids from bouncing off the walls, or just get out of the house for some fresh air, Houston has you covered. From festive lights to nature walks, here’s your guide to things to do in H-Town on December 25th.
Take a stroll at Discovery Green
If you’ve spent the morning knee-deep in wrapping paper and need some fresh air, head over to Discovery Green. The park may be open year-round, but on Christmas Day, it offers a peaceful escape in the heart of downtown. Snap a family selfie by the lake or simply enjoy the calm of Houston’s urban green space. Temperatures are expected to be in the 60s, so it should be enjoyable.
Pro tip: Lace up your skates and hit the Ice at Discovery Green, which is open on Christmas Day. Gliding (or wobbling) across the ice makes for a memorable holiday moment—even if you spend half the time clinging to the railing.
Explore the lights at River Oaks
Christmas isn’t Christmas without lights—and Houston’s River Oaks neighborhood delivers a magical experience. Load up the car with family, some snacks and your favorite Christmas playlist, then drive through the neighborhood to admire its famously lavish light displays. Think twinkling mansions, festive décor and plenty of holiday cheer.
Insider Tip: Head out early evening to beat the crowds and get the best view.
If you haven’t yet made it to the Houston Zoo’s holiday extravaganza, Christmas Day is the perfect time. Zoo lights transform the grounds into a dazzling winter wonderland, complete with over 2 million lights, holiday-themed displays and hot cocoa stations.
Heads up: While the zoo is closed during the day on Christmas, Zoo Lights opens for evening visitors, so you can still get your holiday sparkle on. Visit https://www.houstonzoo.org/ for more information.
Enjoy a nature walk at Hermann Park
Hermann Park is a year-round gem, but it’s especially beautiful during the holidays. Take a post-Christmas dinner walk around McGovern Lake or explore the Japanese Garden for a serene escape. For families, the playgrounds and open spaces are perfect for burning off that holiday sugar rush.
Fun fact: Hermann Park’s wide-open spaces make it the ideal place to throw a football or play a game of tag. Bring the kids and let them run wild.
Go big with a holiday movie marathon
If staying in sounds more appealing (we see you, introverts), Houston’s movie theaters have you covered. Many cinemas, including Alamo Drafthouse and AMC locations, stay open on Christmas Day with showings of the latest blockbusters and family-friendly flicks.
Pro Tip: Upgrade your experience by hitting a theater with reclining seats and full-service dining. Christmas dinner and a movie? Yes, please.
Dine out at a festive restaurant
Not everyone wants to spend Christmas Day sweating over a turkey, and that’s okay. Luckily, several Houston restaurants are open and ready to serve up a holiday feast. Whether you’re craving traditional turkey and ham or something a little different—like BBQ, Mexican, or Asian cuisine—there’s a place for you.
Hot spots: Many hotels, like the Post Oak Hotel and Marriott Marquis, offer special Christmas menus. Be sure to call ahead and snag those reservations.
Take in some holiday art at Moody Gardens
Moody Gardens in Galveston is just a short drive away and offers a perfect day trip for Christmas. The Festival of Lights features over 2 million twinkling lights, an outdoor ice-skating rink, and festive holiday-themed attractions. Plus, the walkable light trail makes for a picturesque experience with family or friends.
Take in the Magical Winter lights in Fort Bend
Held at the Fort Bend County Fairgrounds, Magical Winter Lights is an interactive light extravaganza featuring over 60 lantern displays. You’ll walk through scenes like Dinosaur Kingdom, The Sea and Space, all created from sparkling lights. After exploring the lantern displays, visitors can explore a variety of carnival rides, including an impressive 87-foot-tall gondola Ferris wheel. There are attractions for both young children and thrill-seekers. They can also enjoy carnival food favorites and live entertainment, including costumed characters and nightly performances.
Stay in and Enjoy Family Movie Time
After all the holiday hustle, there’s no shame in throwing on some matching pajamas, grabbing the extra buttery popcorn, and arguing over whether to watch The Best Man Holiday for the 20th time or give Die Hard its annual Christmas movie spotlight. (Yes, it’s a Christmas movie—argue with your mama!) Bonus points if the entire family falls asleep halfway through. Who doesn’t love some couch naps? Oh, and point of personal privilege, check out Christmas in the Friendly Skies on Amazon Prime and Tubi written by yours truly!
Watch the Texans Game
It’s Houston, it’s Christmas, and the Texans are playing. Whether you’re cheering them on, shaking your head in frustration, or just there for the snacks, watching the game has become a holiday tradition. Don’t forget to shout “We still love you!” at the TV when that fourth-quarter fumble happens—it’s all part of the experience. And of course, whether you’re a football fan or not, you need to stay tuned as Beyonce takes the stage at halftime. And while the rest of the country will have to go through Netflix streaming to watch, the game will be shown locally here.
Whether you’re hitting the ice, exploring the lights, or diving into a Christmas feast, Houston has no shortage of festive fun on December 25th. So gather your loved ones, soak up the holiday magic, and enjoy all that H-Town offers this Christmas season!
