Houston Holiday Light Displays to Bring Out Your Inner Child

Image: Courtesy Artechouse
It may not feel all that festive in H-Town right now, especially with the unseasonably warm November temperatures. But in the words of Mariah Carey: It’s time.
As neighbors take down Halloween decorations, it won’t be long until sleigh bells start to ring and the energy of the season fills the air. The aromas of Christmas trees and peppermint bark comfort us around this time of year as we wander through shops and holiday markets full of ornaments and enticing gifts for the whole family (or yourself). The holiday light displays across Houston only add to the charm. Here are some of our favorite displays to get into the festive spirit.
Galaxy Lights at Space Center Houston
Space Center | Nov 16–Jan 5 (with some exceptions) | 6–10pm | $19.95–27.95
This is an interactive and technologically advanced light display that will feature two high-tech kinetic light shows, where dozens of suspended lights move to holiday music above the Main Plaza in precisely choreographed sequences. In addition, expect six 20-foot lit aluminum trees, a 200-foot light tunnel, silhouette sculptures depicting constellations, and more.
1601 E NASA Pkwy
Holiday in the Gardens
Galveston | Nov 23–Jan 1 | 11 am–9pm | $21–80
This Moody Gardens tradition features returning attractions like the Ice Land and Festival of Lights, a mile-long trail illuminated by two million lights. Activities for the entire family will be available: train rides, an ice-skating rink, nightly fireside s’mores, and more.
1 Hope Blvd
Holiday Tree Lighting
Spring | Dec 1 | 3–7pm | Free
City Place’s annual Holiday Tree Lighting includes the unveiling of a Christmas tree, a holiday market with over 30 vendors, and live music. There will also be a craft station for kids, some hot chocolate, and, of course, Santa Claus.
1250 Lake Plaza Dr

Image: Courtesy Artechouse
Houston Holiday Spectacular
The Heights | Nov 22–Jan 5 | Time varies | $17–$33
See holiday lights like no other at Artechouse’s first Houston holiday event. It will feature a multisensory wonderland with seasonal themes using interactive elements like sound and art. Go through joyful installations like Spectacular Factory and Tingle Bells. It’s a vibrant showcase for the senses.
600 W Sixth St
Magical Winter Lights
Rosenberg | Nov 17–Jan 7, 5–10:30pm | Online: $19–96, Box Office: $22–108
Magical Winter Lights may just put everyone else’s displays to shame. Expect seven themed lantern attractions, each with hundreds of lit-up displays. Wander through the space maze, take the kids through Dinosaur Kingdom—a prehistoric playground featuring life-size dinosaurs—to be transported to a different time, or explore the wonders of the galaxy at the Space. There’s even a carnival with rides and games. Don’t forget to grab a bite to eat from various vendors and food trucks while enjoying live music.
4310 St HWY 36
Radiant Nature
Meadowbrook/Allendale | Nov 8–Feb 23 | Times Vary | $28.50
A show where nature and art are intertwined, Radiant Nature at the Houston Botanic Garden will bathe the green space in a new light after dark. Instead of stopping to smell the flowers, take in the garden illuminated with creative light displays. This year brings 50 large traditional Chinese lanterns from Thanksgiving through the Lunar New Year and dozens of photo ops with displays like pandas with bamboos, a temple, and a geometric dome.
1 Botanic LN
Reliant Lights Mayor’s Holiday Spectacular
Downtown | Dec 7 | Free
Here’s another Houston tradition the year would not be complete without. Mayor John Whitmire is ringing in the holiday season with this annual spectacular at City Hall. The event will feature the lighting of a Christmas tree, live music, and family-friendly entertainment.
901 Bagby St

Image: Sugar Land Holiday Lights
Sugar Land Holiday Lights
Sugar Land | Nov 15–Jan 5 (Closed Nov 18–21) | Starting at 6pm, end times vary | Prices vary by night
This family-friendly event is returning to Constellation Field for its enchanting holiday lights display and themed nights. For 10 years, Sugar Land Holiday Lights has taken over the park with over three million lights, visits from Santa, hayrides, and a carnival. There’s also a giant 40-foot lit-up tree alongside numerous themed displays.
1 Stadium Dr
Texas Winter Lights
Downtown | Nov 8–Dec 31 | 5pm | $20–30
The temps may be dropping slightly, but the heated lazy river at the Marriott Marquis is 80 degrees in the winter, and you can float while viewing an interactive light experience. Hop on a VR sleigh ride with Santa, be in your own world at a silent disco, or dance along to a live DJ, all while enjoying a winter-themed cocktail. And despite being in Houston, don’t be surprised if you see (fake) snow.
1777 Walker St

Zoo Lights
Museum District | Nov 22–Jan 5 (Closed on Dec 11, Dec 24 & 25) | 5:30–10:30pm | Prices vary
While you’d typically expect to see real animals at the zoo, this annual extravaganza will display life-size LED creatures, along with a new immersive Twinkle Trail, an enchanted forest, and many other awe-inspiring decorations. Don’t forget to take a picture with Santa, too. Just remember that tickets for Zoo Lights are only available online, so purchase them ahead of time.
6200 Hermann Park Dr
Shelby Stewart and Geneva Diaz contributed to this guide.