Free and Cheap Events in Houston this Weekend
Our top picks for Free and Cheap Events in Houston this Weekend of December 13.
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- Free Events in Houston this Weekend: 37th Annual Lights in the Heights and Santa Paws at Trebly Park
- Top Picks for Friday: Holiday Tour of the 1892 Bishop’s Palace and Candlelight: Christmas Carol on Strings
- Things to Do on Saturday: Christmas Boat Parade and 15th Annual Gingerbread Build-Off
- Best Events on Sunday: Very Merry Pops
Check out the full list below!
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 recent articles on the Happy Hour Katy Texas, Christmas Tree Farm Houston, and Christmas Lights 2024 in Houston!
Free and Cheap Events in Houston this Weekend
Heights Mercantile Holiday Market in the Heights
Enjoy a festive shopping spree where you can find one-of-a-kind gifts for everyone on your list. Stroll through the market, admire the unique creations from local vendors, and snap a photo with Santa himself!
Remember, parking is limited, so consider walking, biking, or using ride-sharing services.
Santa Paws at Trebly Park
Image credit: Downtown Houston
Downtown Houston+ is hosting weekly pet-friendly Santa pop-ups, where you and your furry companion can capture heartwarming holiday memories.
Enjoy live music, delicious hot chocolate, and fun activities while you wait for your turn to meet Santa. Each week, a different cultural Santa will be spreading holiday cheer, celebrating the diversity of Houston.
2nd Annual Christmas Market with Santa at Galveston Brewing
Enjoy the second annual Christmas Market and immerse yourself in a winter wonderland. Discover unique treasures from over 20 vendors, snap a photo with Santa, and enjoy live music from Ladybird and Raa’.
Don’t forget to bring your furry friend for a paw-some photo op with Santa. And while you’re there, grab a bite from the Shepherd Mix Food Truck.
37th Annual Lights in the Heights
Image credit: Houston on the Cheap
This year, one of Houston’s most cherished holiday traditions returns to the historic Woodland Heights. Explore a neighborhood adorned with stunning, creative light displays, each vying for the coveted title of the best in the city.
On the second Saturday of December, the streets come alive with festive cheer. Stroll along the closed-off roads, marveling at the dazzling lights, and enjoy live music performances that fill the air with holiday melodies.
But remember, while the public streets are open for all to enjoy, please respect the privacy of residents and their private parties.
Brews and Beats Ugly Sweater Crazy Night & Market
Get ready to unleash your inner ugly sweater and dance the night away at 8th Wonder’s Ugly Sweater Crazy Night and Market!
Groove to the beats of PrynceDaDi, DJ Ray, DJ Bronson, SkrechySkrach, and DJ Nicky Z as they spin electrifying tunes all night long.
You can also explore a vibrant vendor market, featuring unique gifts and treasures for everyone on your list. And satisfy your cravings with delicious food trucks, offering a variety of culinary delights.
Things to do in Houston this Weekend – Friday
ARTECHOUSE: Houston Holiday Spectacular
Immerse yourself in a world of wonder, where art, technology, and imagination collide at ARTECHOUSE.
Tingle Bells Immersion Gallery will transport you to a serene, ASMR wonderland. Lose yourself in mesmerizing visuals and soothing soundscapes as you journey through a world of comfort and curiosity.
Spectacular Factory will ignite your holiday spirit with its dazzling display of giant Christmas bells, candy cane carousels, and dancing nutcrackers. This whimsical journey is perfect for the young and young at heart.
Intangible Forms by Shohei Fujimoto will dazzle you with its kinetic laser show, a mesmerizing blend of light and motion.
And don’t forget to visit the city’s first XR Bar! Unlock augmented reality experiences while sipping on festive cocktails like the Champagne Sparkle or the Winter Caramel Sleigh. This is something I’m looking forward to experiencing.
Holiday Tour of the 1892 Bishop’s Palace
Galveston Historical Foundation invites you to experience the magic of the holidays with two exclusive tours of the 1892 Bishop’s Palace.
Marvel at the exquisite holiday decorations, including nine Christmas trees, lush greenery, and vibrant poinsettias. Immerse yourself in the history of the house and Victorian holiday traditions while sipping complimentary champagne.
Limited to 30 guests, so book your tickets today!
Candlelight: Christmas Carol on Strings
Prepare to be enchanted as the magic of Christmas Carols on Strings fills the First United Methodist Church of Houston! This captivating concert experience brings the beauty of live music to life under the soft glow of candlelight.
Texas Winter Lights at Marriott Marquis
Marriott Marquis Houston is bringing back its dazzling holiday extravaganza for its fourth year. Soar to new heights on the 6th floor at Altitude Rooftop and Pool, where over 100,000 twinkling lights transform the space into a magical winter escape.
Float through the Texas-shaped lazy river, heated to a cozy 80°, as you’re bathed in a breathtaking light show. Indulge in festive cocktails, savor delicious bites, and enjoy a variety of entertainment, including poolside movie nights, live DJ sets, nightly snowfall, and fun yard games like curling.
Free and Cheap Events in Houston this Weekend – Saturday
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.
Holiday with the Cranes
Witness the majestic return of the sandhill cranes at Galveston Island Nature Tourism Council’s Holiday With The Cranes!
For two days, enjoy a series of exciting indoor and outdoor activities at Galveston. Kids aged 10 and up, grab your guardian and get ready for a wild adventure!
2nd Annual Holiday Market at Houston Toy Museum
Explore a treasure trove of pop culture items, unique art, and exciting activities for kids of all ages. Snap a photo at one of our fun photo ops, donate to the toy drive, and discover amazing gifts from 20 local vendors.
Your ticket includes museum admission, so you can wander through exhibits filled with iconic toys from yesteryear.
Christmas Boat Parade
Image credit: Kemah Boardwalk
Don’t miss the 63rd Annual Christmas Boat Parade at Kemah Boardwalk on December 14th!
Hundreds of dazzling boats will light up Galveston Bay, creating a magical spectacle you won’t want to miss.
Arrive early to secure the best viewing spot and witness the breathtaking parade as it passes the Boardwalk around 7-8 PM.
Houston Symphony presents Holly Jolly Holiday
Head over to Jones Hall for a festive extravaganza filled with music, merriment, and holiday cheer. Sing along to your favorite carols, sip on warm hot chocolate, and immerse yourself in interactive activities. And don’t forget to snap a photo with Santa!
15th Annual Gingerbread Build-Off
On December 14th, Architecture Center Houston transforms Levy Park into a sugary wonderland where edible masterpieces take center stage. Witness competing teams create architectural marvels crafted from gingerbread, candy, and other delectable treats.
Marvel at over 4,000 edible creations as you cheer on the teams and explore the interactive kids’ construction zone and lawn games.
Markets for Makers
Image credit: Markets for Makers
Head to POST Houston for a day filled with shopping, fun, and community. Explore over 100 talented makers, unleash your inner artist at our DIY station, and capture unforgettable moments at photo walls.
Indulge in delicious food and drinks, and fill your free tote bag with treasures from small businesses. Bring the whole family, including your furry friends, and create lasting memories.
The Nutcracker by the Houston Ballet
Join Clara, Drosselmeyer, and the Sugar Plum Fairy on an enchanting journey through the Land of Snow and the Kingdom of Sweets. Stanton Welch’s breathtaking production brings this beloved holiday classic to life with stunning sets, dazzling costumes, and a talented cast of dancers.
Cistern Illuminated
Cistern Illuminated transforms the historic Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern into a mesmerizing underground wonderland. Witness the cavernous space illuminated by a dazzling play of light and shadow, echoing through the 221 towering columns. Accompanied by a captivating soundscape, this immersive experience will transport you to another world.
The Ugly Xmas Sweater Musical
The hilarious and heartwarming Ugly Xmas Sweater Musical is back to spread holiday cheer! Join the fun and help save Regalia Uniforms from a corporate takeover by designing the ultimate ugly Christmas sweater.
Don your most outrageous sweater, sing along to festive tunes, and strut your stuff on the runway.
Classic Christmas
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.Galaxy Lights at Space Center Houston
Image credit: Wellby Financial
Things to Do in Houston This Weekend – Sunday
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.Karbach Holiday Fest and Shop Local Market
Discover a treasure trove of unique gifts, handmade crafts, and seasonal delights from over 50 local businesses at Karbach’s Holiday Fest.
Snap a picture with Santa and your furry friend, unleash your inner artist with DIY ornament making, and strike a pose at our festive photo backdrops.
There will also be live music performances, delicious food truck fare, craft beers, and cozy hot cocoa.
Very Merry Pops
Very Merry Pops, Houston’s beloved holiday tradition, turns 25 this year! Join us for a magical evening of music, laughter, and holiday cheer. Tony-nominated Broadway star Betsy Wolfe will enchant you with her stunning vocals, while the Symphony and Chorus fill the air with festive melodies.
Choose from two enchanting performances on Sunday, December 15th: 2 PM or 7:30 PM.
Christmas Village at Bayou Bend
Discover a magical Christmas experience at the stunning Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens. As you cross the dazzling bridge, you’ll be transported to a 14-acre estate illuminated by thousands of twinkling lights.Flea by Night
Discover a treasure trove of unique finds from local artisans and small businesses at Flea by Night. From vintage and handmade to recycled and repurposed, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy delicious bites from rotating food trucks and festive holiday music while you browse the open-air market on Avenida de las Americas.Also, check out our weekly updates on Things to Do in Houston with Kids this Weekend.
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