Fun Kids Activities in Houston this Weekend of November 15, 2024

Fun Kids Activities in Houston this Weekend of November 15, 2024

Our top picks for Things to do in Houston this weekend of November 15 include:

Free Activities this WeekendMonthly Volunteer Day and HALS Public Ride Day

Top Picks for Friday: Santa’s Wonderland and Disney on Ice: Frozen and Encanto

Things to Do on SaturdayHouston Area Model Train Show and The Little Mermaid

Best Events on Sunday: The Polar Express and A Christmas Carol


Editor’s Note: We work hard to bring you the most up-to-date information. However, all information is subject to change! As always, please verify with the organizer before heading out!  Also, please note that this article may contain affiliate links. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products and services that we genuinely believe will benefit our readers!

In case you are wondering about the choice of listings in this article, here is how we come up with our recommendations.

Check out our articles on the Best Sandwiches in Houston, Radiant Nature Houston Botanic Garden, and Kids Eat Free Galveston!


Free Events For Kids in Houston this Weekend

Discover Houston Music Showcase

Houston’s hottest bands, handpicked by you, will take the stage to light up the night. Don’t miss your chance to discover your next favorite act and celebrate the grand opening of Green Mountain Energy Ice.

When: Saturday, November 15, 2024 | 7 am – 10 am
How Much: Free

Farmers Market on Navigation

Get ready to dive into a culinary adventure at the Esplanade at Navigation Market. 

Savor the freshest garden produce and locally sourced dairy, indulge in delectable prepared foods, and discover unique handcrafted treasures.

When: Sunday, November 17, 2024 | 10 am – 2 pm
How Much: Free

Monthly Volunteer Workday 

Things to do in Houston with kids this weekend of November 15 | Monthly Volunteer Workday

Image credit: Buffalo Bayou Partnership

Join Buffalo Bayou Partnership for a fun-filled volunteer day at Buffalo Bayou Park! Every third Saturday of the month, you can roll up your sleeves and help beautify our city. From picking up trash to planting trees, there’s a task for everyone.
 
Just bring your work gloves and a can-do attitude! All other tools will be provided.
 
When: Saturday, November 16, 2024 | 8:30 am – 11:30 am
How Much: Free

Every third Saturday of the month (and on select Sundays), hop aboard the train at Zube Park.

No reservations? No problem! All ages are welcome to enjoy a leisurely 12-15 minute ride around the park.

When: Saturday, November 16, 2024 
How Much: Free

Fun Kids Activities in Houston this Weekend of November 15 – Friday

Green Mountain Energy Ice

Things to do in Houston with kids this weekend of November 25 | Skate with Santa at Green Mountain Energy Ice

Image Credit: Discovery Green

 
Glide beneath the dazzling lights of downtown Houston and immerse yourself in holiday wonder at Green Mountain Energy Ice at Discovery Green!
 
When: Friday, November 15, 2024 – January 31, 2025 | 5 pm – 10 pm
How Much: $18 plus tax

Immerse yourself in a world of wonder at the Radiant Nature Chinese Lantern Festival. Witness breathtaking, larger-than-life installations that celebrate the beauty of nature and the promise of the Lunar New Year.

This year’s festival is even more spectacular than before! Explore towering ginkgo and pine trees, a majestic Chinese temple, a mesmerizing geometric dome, and adorable pandas munching on bamboo.

And that’s not all! The interactive zone is back with illuminated swings, an angelic wings photo spot, and a whole host of new, Instagram-worthy experiences.

When: Friday, November 15, 2024 
How Much: Starts at $28.50 | Free for kids 2 and under  

Santa’s Wonderland 

Ride hayrides and trains, listen to live music, shop ‘til you drop, and take a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride. Savor delicious treats at the food village, cozy up by the campfire, and most importantly, meet Santa himself!

When: Friday, November 15 – December 30, 2024 
How Much: Starts at $39.95 

Disney On Ice: Frozen and Encanto 

Things to do in Houston with kids this week of November 15 | Disney on Ice: Frozen and Encanto

Image credit: Disney on Ice

Get ready to be enchanted with Disney On Ice presents Frozen & Encanto! 

Witness the heartwarming tale of sisterhood in Frozen (Act One) as Anna, Elsa, and Olaf take you on a thrilling adventure. Then, in Encanto (Act Two), join Mirabel, Isabela, Luisa, and Bruno as they share their extraordinary family story.

Prepare to be amazed by breathtaking acrobatics, dazzling special effects, and stunning costumes. Hosted by the iconic Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, this unforgettable show brings Disney’s magic to life on ice.

When: Friday – Sunday, November 15 – 17, 2024 
How Much: Starts at $20

Fun Kids Activities in Houston this Weekend – Saturday, November 16

Radiant Nature

The Chinese Lantern Festival is back at the Houston Botanic Garden, and it’s bigger and brighter than ever. Immerse yourself in a world of wonder with larger-than-life lantern installations that celebrate the beauty of nature and the promise of the Lunar New Year.

Wander through a mile-long path filled with over 50 stunning displays, perfect for capturing unforgettable moments for your social media feeds. From a massive iridescent dome to a life-sized Chinese palace, every corner of the garden is transformed into a magical wonderland.

When: Saturday, November 16, 2024 – February 23, 2025 | 6 pm 
How Much: $28.50 for ages 3 and up | Free for kids 3 and under

Dive into a world of pure holiday magic at Coca-Cola’s Classic Christmas. This year, Memorial City Mall transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland, illuminated by millions of twinkling lights.
 
Lose yourself in a mesmerizing light display, shop for unique gifts at the vibrant Market Square, zoom down the thrilling Snow Slide, and glide across the ice rink.
 
When: Saturday, November 16 – December 29, 2024 | 5:30 pm – 9:30 pm
How Much: Starts at $27.99

Galaxy Lights at Space Center Houston

Reliant’s mind-bending space-themed light show will transport you to the far reaches of the universe. Create unforgettable memories with family and friends as you explore Space Center Houston like never before.
 
Please note that Galaxy Lights admission is separate from general admission to Space Center Houston. Prices may vary for peak attendance days.
 
When: Saturday, November 16, 2024 – January 5, 2025| 6 pm – 10 pm
How Much: $19.95 – $27.95 | Free for children under 3

Houston Area Model Train Show

Do the kids love trains? Then, this is something you don’t want to miss. This year’s show features numerous operating model railroads, exhibits by railroad historical societies, and model railroad vendors. 
 
When: Saturday – Sunday, November 16 – 17, 2024 | 10 am – 5 pm
How Much: Free for 17 and under | $7 for adults

50th Annual Texas Renaissance Festival

Texas Renaissance Festival

Image credit: Texas Renaissance Festival

Head over to the 50th annual Texas Renaissance Festival, a magical journey back to the 16th century. Explore a 55-acre European village filled with live music, thrilling performances, and handcrafted treasures. Indulge in exotic foods and drinks, ride exciting rides, and meet fascinating characters.
 
When: Saturday, November 16, 2024 
How Much: Ticket prices vary

The Little Mermaid

Experience the magic of Disney’s “The Little Mermaid,” inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s timeless tale.
 
Follow Ariel, the curious mermaid princess, as she yearns for a life above the sea. Join her colorful companions, Flounder, Scuttle, and Sebastian, as they navigate treacherous waters and face the cunning sea witch, Ursula. Will Ariel succeed in winning the heart of Prince Eric and claiming her destiny?
 
When: Saturday – Sunday, November 15 – 17, 2024 | 2 pm and 6 pm 
How Much: $15 – $25

Things to Do in Houston with Kids this Weekend – Sunday, November 17

The Polar Express

Things to do in Houston this weekend of November 8 | The Polar Express Train Ride

Image credit: Galveston Railroad Museum

Dress in your PJs and get ready for a fun-filled adventure on the Polar Express. You’ll meet beloved characters like the conductor, the singing chefs, and the hobo. And of course, you’ll get to meet Santa Claus himself!

Enjoy hot chocolate and cookies, and maybe even a tangle with a caribou. Once you arrive at the North Pole, you’ll dance with elves and receive a special gift from Santa: a silver sleigh bell.

When: Sunday, November 17, 2024 
How Much: Starts at $34

Winter Wonderlawn at Post

Step into a winter wonderland at POST’s Downtown Holiday Lights Celebration. Skylawn is transformed into a magical realm with over 100,000 twinkling lights, a towering 25ft Christmas tree, and captivating holiday-themed experiences. 
 
This winter wonderland awaits you until January 11th.
 
When: Sunday, November 17, 2024 | 5 pm – 10 pm
How Much: $7 – $10 | Free for children 5 and under  

Don’t miss this Houston holiday tradition!
 
Relive the classic tale of Ebenezer Scrooge as he embarks on a magical journey with the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future. Immerse yourself in a world of dazzling costumes, stunning sets, and the true spirit of the season. 
 
When: Sunday, November 17 – December 29, 2024 
How Much: Starts at $31

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Nicole Rotschi