Christmas in Houston, Texas: Your Ultimate Guide
Embracing the Holiday Cheer in Houston
Houston transforms into a festive playground during the Christmas season, offering a blend of outdoor events and cozy at-home activities to get everyone into the holiday spirit. Whether you're looking to venture out into the city's festive hustle and bustle or prefer to create your own wonderland at home, Houston has something special for everyone. Let’s explore a mix of activities that make Christmas in Houston a memorable experience.
A Motown Christmas at Ensemble Theatre | Ongoing through Christmas Eve, Sunday, December 24 – This family-friendly holiday revue blends traditional carols with that distinctive Motown sound, with hits made famous by the Jackson Five, Marvin Gaye and more. This production runs through Christmas Eve, Sunday, December 24. $34 and up. Showtimes vary.
Week of Monday, December 11, 2023
Monarch Chamber Players presents Candlelit Christmas Concert at Post Houston | Thursday, December 14 | FREE – Join Monarch for a spirited perforamnce in the Z atrium of Post Houston, surrounded by candlelight. Standing room is free and open to the public (RSVP requested); reserved seating is limited to 250 spots for $15 each. 8pm.
Martin Burniston’s 31st Annual Christmas Singalong at McGonigel’s Mucky Duck | Thursday, December 14 to Saturday, December 16 – The annual holiday sing-a-long returns to the Upper Kirby stage at McGonigel’s, complete with a three-course dinner and held across three nights. $68 and up. 7pm.
Elf in Concert at Smart Financial Centre | Friday, December 15 – Relive the holiday comedy starring Will Ferrell and Zooey Deschanel at this special screening of the 2003 film, featuring a live orchestra performing the score to the film. $35 and up. 7:30pm.
A Christmas Jazz Concert with Raquel Cepeda at MATCH | Friday, December 15 – The jazz septet presents this performance of seasonal jazz tunes, Christmas songs from around the world, original jazz arrangements and original Christmas music. $25 and up. 8pm.
Houston Symphony presents Handel’s Messiah at Jones Hall | Friday, December 15 to Sunday, December 17 – The holiday tradition is back with Handel’s enduring oratorio chronicling the greatest story ever told. The Houston Symphony Chorus sings alongside the orchestra, and the score features the iconic “Hallelujah” chorus. $42 and up. Friday and Saturday at 7:30pm; Sunday at 2:30pm.
William Beckmann’s Los Posadas Tour at the Heights Theater | Saturday, December 16 – The Texas crooner brings his Las Posadas Tour to the Heights, performing an intimate set of Christmas music, Spanish songs, storytelling and Beckmann originals. $22 and up. 8pm.
For King & Country: Drummer Boy Christmas at Toyota Center | Sunday, December 17 – Savor the spirit of the season when the Grammy-winning King & Country return to Houston with fan favorites, beloved Christmas classics and more from their best-selling album, A Drummer Boy Christmas. $29 and up. 7pm.
Week of Monday, December 18, 2023
A Christmas Symphony: Sarah Brightman in Concert at Smart Financial Centre | Wednesday, December 20 – The renowned soprano vocalist graces the Sugar Land stage, joined by an orchestra, choir and other special guests for a symphonic night of holiday favorites and chart-topping hits. $47 and up. 8pm.
Houston Symphony presents A Very Merry Pops at Jones Hall | Wednesday, December 20 to Saturday, December 23 – The Symphony’s annual holiday offering returns, bringing with it familiar favorites to make the rafters ring. The concert features the Houston Symphony Chorus and Broadway leading lady, Mandy Gonzalez. $40 and up. 7:30pm.
Houston Symphony presents Holly Jolly Holiday at Jones Hall | Saturday, December 23 – This family concert from the Symphony offers a morning of songs featuring Hamilton star Mandy Gonzalez, performing favorotes like “Santa Claus is Coming to Town,” “We Wish You a Merry Christmas” and others. Plus, families can enjoy kid-friendly activities like a visit with Santa, caroling stations and free hot chocolate. $34 and up. 10am and 11:30am.
The Grand Ol’ Christmas Show with Blue Water Highway at the Heights Theater | Saturday, December 23 – This one-of-a-kind musical comedy from Will Hearn brings a live retro radio show to the stage, complete with sketch comedy antics, Christmas classics and a tribute to the holiday tradition. Americana artists Blue Water Highway will also be around to perform tunes live. $32 and up. 8pm.
Week of Christmas, Monday, December 25, 2023
Mannheim Steamroller Christmas at Smart Financial Centre | Thursday, December 28 – Led by the Grammy-winning multi-instrumentalist Chip Davis, Mannheim Steamroller embarks on their 32nd anniversary of the Christmas tour that offers beloved classics you’ve come to know and love, with a contemporary twist. $39 and up. 8pm.
Creating Memorable Moments This Christmas in Houston
Christmas in Houston offers a unique blend of community events and at-home activities that cater to all ages and interests. Whether you're out exploring the city's festive offerings or creating your own holiday magic at home, Houston provides countless ways to make this season truly special. Gather your loved ones, embrace the holiday cheer, and make this Christmas in Houston a time to remember.
