Activities for Couples in Houston

Activities for Couples in Houston

Our top picks for Activities for Couples in Houston this weekend of December 13.

Check out the full list below!


Disclaimer: We work hard to provide you with 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.

Interested in fun activities for couples? Check out our articles on Date Night Houston, Date Ideas Galveston, and Romantic Restaurants in Houston.


Free Activities for Couples in Houston this Weekend

Santa Paws at Trebly Park

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. The photos always seem to turn out great. I used mine last year for my Christmas cards.

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 spread holiday cheer and celebrate the diversity of Houston. 

When: Saturday, December 14, 2024 | 12 pm – 3 pm
How Much: Free

ATLAS by Jen Lewis

Get ready to be mesmerized by ATLAS, a breathtaking winter art installation at Discovery Green.

Internationally acclaimed artist Jen Lewin brings you a magical experience like no other. As you wander through the park, you’ll encounter 24 ethereal, glowing moths suspended from the trees. Each month pulsates with light and sound, inviting you to interact and create a unique, romantic experience.

When: Friday, December 13, 2024 | 6 am – 11 pm
How Much: Free

37th Annual Lights in the Heights

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, marvel 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.

When: Friday, December 14, 2024 | 6 pm – 9 pm
How Much: Free

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. This is a holiday event my husband looks forward to every year.

When: Friday, December 14, 2024 | 6 pm – 11 pm
How Much: Free

Christmas Boat Parade

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.

When: Saturday, December 14, 2024 | 7 pm 
How Much: Free

Activities for Couples in Houston this Weekend – Friday

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.

When: Friday, December 13, 2024 | 3 pm – 7 pm
How Much: $6 | Free for kids under 9 

Silent Night Disco

Things to do in Houston for couples this weekend of December 13 | Silent Night Disco

Image credit: Downtown Houston

Slip on a pair of glowing headphones and choose from a curated playlist of festive hits, classic tunes, and wintery vibes.

With the city lights as your backdrop, dance to your own beat and enjoy a unique, immersive experience where you control the music and the volume.

When: Friday, December 13, 2024 | 7 pm – 9 pm
How Much: Free

Holiday Pop Culture Trivia

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.

When: Friday, December 13, 2024 | 7 pm – 10 pm
How Much: $10

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.

When: Friday, December 13, 2024 | 6:30 pm – 7:45 pm
How Much: $32.48

Dining in the Dark: A Blindfolded Dining Experience

Blindfold yourself and let your taste buds take center stage at Weights + Measures in Midtown. Indulge in a mysterious 3-course meal, where every bite is a surprise.
 
Choose between a meat, fish, or vegan menu and prepare to have your senses awakened. I always have so much fun at this event and so does my husband!
 
When: Friday, December 13, 2024 | 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
How Much: $64

Happy Hour Friday at Green Mountain Energy Ice

Green Mountain Energy Ice at Discovery Green

Image credit: Discovery Green

Enjoy $2 off skate times on the Green Mountain Energy Ice when you book between 5pm and 8pm during select weeks.

And that’s not all! Treat yourself to a free ice cream when you spend $12 or more at The Lake House.

When: Friday, December 13, 2024 | 5 pm – 8 pm
How Much: $16

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.

When: Friday, December 13, 2024 – January 5, 2025 
How Much: Anytime tickets: $36 | General tickets: Starts at $30

Buffalo Bayou Partnership: Holiday Boat Cruises

Hop aboard BBP’s holiday-themed pontoon boat and experience the dazzling downtown skyline from a whole new perspective. This year, historic Allen’s Landing will be transformed into a winter wonderland, illuminated with a magical glow.

Starting December 20th, for two weekends only, you can witness the stunning Snow Glow on the Bayou installation up close. Bundle up, board the boat, and embark on an unforgettable journey that blends holiday cheer with the bayou’s unique charm.

When: Friday – Saturday, December 13 – December 29, 2024 
How Much: $20 per person

Editor’s Note: Looking to save money for you and your family? Bookmark our pages on Kids Eat Free Houston and Happy Hour Houston. We will continue to add more areas of Greater Houston to these pages so that you can continue to save money across Houston!
 
If you enjoy holiday lights and decorations, be sure to bookmark our page on Christmas Lights in Houston. Over the next few days, we will be updating our articles on the best places to view Christmas lights including neighborhood lights and also ticketed light shows across Greater Houston! 

Free and Cheap Activities for Couples in Houston this Weekend – Saturday

Pixar Putt

Pixar Putt is back in Houston, bigger and better than ever! Each hole is a whimsical journey through beloved Pixar worlds, from the colorful streets of Radiator Springs to the underwater wonders of the Great Barrier Reef.

Whether you’re a kid or a kid at heart, Pixar Putt is the perfect outing for a date. And when the sun sets, the fun doesn’t stop! After 7 p.m., Pixar Putt After Dark transforms into a unique nighttime experience for adults only.

When: Saturday, December 14, 2024 | 10 am – 9:30 pm
How Much: Starts at $5

Space Explorers: The Infinite Extended 

Space Explorers: The Infinite has extended its stay in Houston, giving you even more time to embark on an extraordinary virtual reality journey.

Team up with an international crew of astronauts and explore the depths of space in breathtaking 360-degree videos captured using cutting-edge technology.

Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the wonders of the universe from the comfort of Houston.

When: Saturday, December 14, 2024 | 11 am – 8:30 pm 
How Much: Starts at $27

Ugly Sweater Party

Enjoy a festive showdown of ugly sweaters and holiday cheer. Dance the night away to live DJ beats, sip on festive cocktails, and compete for the coveted title of “Ugliest Sweater.”

When: Saturday, December 14, 2024 | 7 pm – 12 am 
Where: The Local Bar in Cypress and Katy
How Much: No cover

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.

When: Saturday, December 14, 2024 – January 26, 2025 
How Much: $15

Holiday Dinner Cruise on Colonel Paddlewheel Boat

Enjoy a two-hour journey under the stars, savoring a delicious holiday buffet and sipping refreshing beverages from the cash bar. Boarding starts at 6:30 pm, and the cruise departs promptly at 7 pm.

When: Saturday, December 14, 2024 | 7 pm
How Much: $95

Dasher’s Holiday Hayride

As darkness falls, hop aboard a cozy hayride and embark on a 20-minute journey through a breathtaking wonderland of twinkling lights.

Meet Santa Claus himself and share your holiday wishes. Don’t forget to capture the moment with a photo at one of our festive displays.

Shop for unique holiday gifts, from stylish accessories to cozy apparel. Savor the flavors of the season with warm hot cocoa, sweet popcorn, and fluffy cotton candy.

For a truly indulgent experience, visit their full bar and sip on festive cocktails or classic eggnog.

When: Saturday, December 14, 2024 | 6 pm
How Much: $95

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, December 14, 2024 – February 23, 2025 | 6 pm 
How Much: $28.50 for ages 3 and up | Free for kids 3 and under

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.
 
When: Saturday, December 14 – 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, December 14, 2024 – January 5, 2025| 6 pm – 10 pm
How Much: $19.95 – $27.95 | Free for children under 3

Activities for Couples in Houston This Weekend – Sunday

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.
 
When: Sunday, December 15 – 21, 2024| 6 pm – 10 pm
How Much: Free

Tinsel Trek: Buffalo Bayou Park Wellness Walk

Things to do in Houston this weekend of December 13 | Tinsel Trek: Buffalo Bayou Park Wellness Walk

Image credit: fareharbor

Lace up your walking boots and bundle up in your festive attire for a magical journey through Buffalo Bayou Park. Join Laura Conely, founder of Urban Paths, as she leads you through the park’s enchanting holiday lights.
 
The walk departs at 6:30 PM from 105 Sabine Street and covers 3 miles in 1.5 hours.
 
When: Sunday, December 15 – 18, 2024| 6:30 pm – 8 pm
How Much: Free

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.
 
Marvel at a miniature train circling a towering Christmas tree, swoosh down a snowy slide, have a snowball fight with friends, or capture precious moments with Santa for free.
 
When: Sunday, December 15 – 30, 2024| 6 pm – 10 pm
How Much: $21 for adults | $14 for kids aged 5 – 12

Stay on top of the latest Entertainment options in Houston with our Things to Do in Houston this Weekend and Kid Friendly Events in Houston this Weekend guides.

To get these updates directly delivered to your feed, give us a follow on Facebook by clicking on the …next to the search lens icon

Natalie Dulaney