Experience Christmas Magic in Downtown Houston

Texas may not be the first destination that comes to mind for a winter holiday for family travelers, but this year, Houston may to surprise you. City Lights Downtown Holiday Magic turns downtown Houston into a winter wonderland where locals and visitors alike can enjoy the magic of the season around every corner.

The festival, which began in November and runs through Jan. 2, brings eight different themed villages like Santa’s Village, Winter Wanderland, Mistletoe Square and Deck the Trees. Each village offers something different. The Texas Winter Lights village, found at the Marriott Marquis Houston, lights up the night every night 5–10 p.m. with an interactive holiday light exhibit, along with signature cocktails, a winter-themed dining menu and a heated “river” that visitors can float along while enjoying the light show above them.

Sugar Plum Plaza gives visitors the chance to experience an interactive display of massive, custom-built Christmas ornaments while they listen to holiday music at the Fish Plaza outside of Wortham Theater. The Holiday Ice Village, located at Discovery Green, is home to an outdoor ice-skating rink, along with outdoor showings of holiday movies on Thursday nights and Flea by Night, a special holiday flea market, every Saturday night.

The different villages, spread out across the downtown area, are not only a great way to enjoy an evening in this fun city, but they also let you get to know the city’s distinctive vibe by exploring different areas and locations. While there are certain activities that require a ticket, such as the ice-skating rink with a $17 entrance fee, the festival is free to everyone and ensures every member of the family not only has fun but also finds something they love about the holidays.