With the gifts unwrapped and the eggnog gulped down, it might seem like Christmas day is over but there are still a ton of activities happening in Houston that will keep your holiday spirits up. Enjoy a safe day outdoors by stepping out and attending some entertaining events planned especially for Christmas Day that will keep the celebration going.
Check out below some of the Things to Do in Houston on Christmas Day where you can have a fun time with friends and family!
Editor’s Note: Our staff works 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!
And, if you want to check out places with Christmas light shows, check out our article on Best Christmas Lights Houston 2023!
Things to Do in Houston on Christmas Day 2023
Visit Galveston – The Winter Wonder Island of Texas
Escape the cold and dreary weather and spend your winter holidays on island time. Whether you’re looking for warm weather and sunny skies, a unique coastal holiday experience, or simply to enjoy time with your family, this beach destination has all that plus a good dose of the Christmas spirit.
Where: 601 Tremont St • Galveston, Texas 77550
Ice Skating at Discovery Green
- Monday – Friday: 5-10 pm (Fridays open until 11 pm)
- Saturday & HISD School Holidays*: 11 am-11 pm
- Sunday: 11 am – 8 pm
- Thanksgiving Day: 11 am – 11 pm
- Christmas & New Year’s Eve: 11 am-7 pm
- Christmas & New Year’s Day: 1-7 pm
- Martin Luther King Day: 11 am – 10 pm
*HISD school holidays include: Nov. 20-24; Dec. 25-29; Jan. 1-5, 8 & 15
Where: Discovery Green, 1500 McKinney Street, Houston, TX 77010
How Much: Regular Admissions – $17 admission (plus tax), skate rental included
Christmas Day at Kemah Boardwalk
Christmas Day bring your Family and friends to enjoy great food and rides! Welcome the season with Santa, holiday music, movies, a toy drive & more!
When: December 2 – 18, 2023 | December 25, 2023
Where:215 Kipp Ave, Kemah, TX 77565
Christmas Day at Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier
When: December 25, 2023 | 3:00 pm – 8:00 pm.
Where: 2501 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550, USA
Where to Go see Christmas Lights in Houston
When it comes to experiencing the magic of Christmas lights, Houston truly sparkles with holiday spirit. Envision strolling through enchanting trails, where countless twinkling lights turn the city into a festive winter wonderland, all set to the joyful tunes of Christmas melodies. Picture Houston’s streets and iconic landmarks transformed into radiant spectacles of holiday joy, with each shimmering light contributing to the city’s vibrant festive atmosphere.
Our very own writers also explored these neighborhood Christmas lights which we highly recommend you also explore!
Below are a few of the holiday lights you can check out all across Houston!
Check out our comprehensive guide to the Top 20 Christmas Lights in Houston for 2023!
RIVER OAKS HOUSTON CHRISTMAS LIGHTS
Drive through River Oaks to see the mansions and huge oaks wrapped in lights. These traditional displays are amazing with dripping lights and more. River Oaks Country Club, Inwood Drive, Willowick, and Del Monte are some prime streets. Check out the corner house at Mockingbird and Del Monte for an amazing display! This neighborhood arguably offers the best Christmas lights in Houston and is a must-see every year.
Where: River Oaks Blvd Houston, TX 77019
Lights in the Woodland Heights
This area of the Heights is known for its high concentration of Christmas lights in Houston. The neighborhood usually hosts Lights in the Heights. Lights in the Heights is not just a fun, family-friendly, holiday event. It’s also a competition among neighbors!
Each year, the Lights in the Heights committee will choose winners for a variety of award categories. The homeowners get super creative with their displays and come up with some spectacular holiday displays!
Where: Woodland Heights Euclid Street, Houston, Texas 77009
How Much: Free
Christmas Day Activities in Houston – Volunteering
Remember to check out our list of 10 Christmas Volunteer Opportunities in Houston!
Toys For Tots – Houston Children’s Charity
When families need help delivering a happy holiday for their kids, Toys For Tots jumps in with in-kind contributions of fresh toys for children who might otherwise go without a present on Christmas morning. Select gifts for a child and drop them off at one of the numerous collection places in the greater Houston region for your kids to get into the spirit of giving.
Where: 1600 West Loop South, Suite 610, Houston, TX 77027
Meals on Wheels
The Meals on Wheels program of Interfaith Ministries distributes approximately 5,000 holiday meals to shut-in seniors in the Houston region. They need volunteers year-round, but this is an option to spend your Christmas holidays in the spirit of giving. It may be especially fun to volunteer to deliver Christmas dinners to the thousands of seniors and those with disabilities that they serve.
Where: 3303 Main Street, Houston, TX 77002
Places to Eat on Christmas Day in Houston
Looking for the perfect spot to dine out in Houston on Christmas Day? Whether you’re seeking a fancy meal at an upscale restaurant, eager to try some authentic international cuisine, or just in the mood for classic BBQ or steakhouse flavors after a day filled with twinkling lights and holiday joy, Houston has it all. The city’s vibrant dining scene offers a variety of choices to make your Christmas dining experience as festive and memorable as the city’s holiday spirit!
And, you can also check out our article on Restaurants Open Christmas Day Houston 2023!
Bowl & Barrel
Do away with the tedium of racking up dirty dishes for washing on Christmas day by simply treating yourself and the family to a delightful meal outside. At Bowl & Barrel, you can enjoy some delicious house-made cocktails, craft beers on tap, delicious sliders, and fries, and also go up to one of the 14 full-size bowling lanes to play a few rounds!
Where: 797 Sorella Ct, Ste 118, Houston, TX 77024
Mala Sichuan Bistro
Craving some slightly numbing, tingling, and spicy Sichuan food on Christmas day? Visit Mala Sichuan Bistro where you can enjoy a delectable spread of traditional spices infused with the Sichuan flavor. Try the mouthwatering Dan Dan noodles or the sour and spicy wontons that will wake up your palate and leave a zinging feeling long after you’ve eaten!
Where: 1201 Westheimer Rd, Ste B, Houston, TX 77006
Johnnie’s Italian Steakhouse
Head over to Johnnie’s for an assortment of gourmet Italian cuisine and seafood paired with an expertly curated wine list. Satisfy all your steak cravings at the space which is open on most holidays and festival days, including Thanksgiving and Christmas! Go for the Steak De Burgo, which is a total crowd favorite!
Where: 19333 David Memorial Drive, Shenandoah, TX 77385
Where to Shop on Christmas Day in Houston
If you are like us, there is always some last-minute shopping needed on Christmas Day. Whether you are hosting a big party at your place or just need a quick trip to the pharmacy, we have you covered.
Among pharmacy stores, you will find that CVS, Walgreens are open, although the hours may be limited. And if you are looking for groceries you will be happy to know that H Mart, Randalls, Circle K are open on Christmas Day.
Check out our full article on Stores Open on Christmas Day in Houston!
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