Free and Cheap Events in Houston this Weekend

Free and Cheap Events in Houston this Weekend

Our top picks for Free and Cheap Events in Houston this Weekend of December 6.

Check out the full list below!


EVENT TOP PICK – 51st Annual Dickens on the Strand

Things to do in Houston this weekend of December 6 | 49th annual Dickens on The Strand.

Image Credit: galvestonhistory.org

Galveston Historical Foundation invites you to experience the magic of 19th-century London at this enchanting holiday festival. Wander through the historic streets, marvel at the stunning Victorian architecture, and immerse yourself in a world of wonder.

There will be a variety of festive activities, from live performances and parades to unique shopping experiences and family-friendly entertainment. Don’t miss the chance to meet beloved characters, sample delicious holiday treats, and create lasting memories with loved ones.

When: Sunday, December 6, 2024 | 5 pm – 9 pm
How Much: Free

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 2024 Guide To Christmas Tree Lighting Houston, Happy Hour Katy Texas, Christmas Tree Farm Houston, and Christmas Lights 2024 in Houston!


Free and Cheap Events in Houston this Weekend

Reliant Lights Mayor’s Holiday Spectacular 2024

Join Mayor John Whitmire and Reliant for a dazzling night of holiday cheer. This free event promises a magical evening filled with live music, dance performances, and a spectacular tree lighting ceremony.

LeToya Luckett and RaeLynn will headline the show, delivering incredible performances that will have you singing along. There will also be talented local performers, including the Shepherd School of Music Mariachi Luna Llena, KIPP Sharp Singers, and more.

Don’t miss the grand finale: a breathtaking fireworks display synchronized with the iconic “Hallelujah Chorus.”

So grab your family and friends and head to Hermann Square for a night of holiday fun. Remember to wear your free Santa hat and enjoy delicious treats from the Gingerbread Village.

When: Saturday, December 7, 2024 | 6 pm – 8 pm
How Much: Free

Levy Park Holiday Festival

Gather your family and friends for a weekend filled with festive fun. Explore a charming holiday market, create your own holiday masterpiece at the craft station, and groove to live music performances.

Don’t miss the dazzling dance performance by River Oaks Dance or the chance to snap a picture with Santa Claus himself. With delicious food and drinks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

When: Saturday, December 7 and 8, 2024 | 11 am – 11:30 am
How Much: Free

City Lights Downtown Holiday Magic Kick-off Party

Peppermint Plaza is the place to be on Friday. Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with live music, captivating street performers, and a festive craft station for everyone to enjoy. This is a favorite of my kids.

Don’t miss the magical moment as the tree lights up at 6:15 PM following special guest remarks.

When: Friday, December 6, 2024 | 5:30 pm – 8 pm
How Much: Free

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. 

When: Friday, December 6, 2024 – January 5, 2025 
How Much: Anytime tickets: $36 | General tickets: Starts at $30

Happy Hour Friday at Green Energy Ice

Enjoy $2 off skate times between 5pm and 8pm on select weeks. Plus, treat yourself to a free ice cream with a $12 purchase at The Lake House.

Lace up your skates and experience the magic of ice skating daily through February 2, 2025.

When: Friday, December 6, 2024 | 5 pm – 8 pm
How Much: $16 to skate

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

East End Holiday Homes Tour in Galveston

The 2024 Holiday Homes Tour invites you to wander through four stunning, privately-owned historic homes, adorned with festive decorations and filled with holiday cheer. As you explore these architectural gems, you’ll be serenaded by enchanting holiday music.

And the fun doesn’t stop there! Head to the Cottage for a sweet treat and a chance to meet the jolly old Saint Nick himself.

When: Friday, December 6, 2024 | 5:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Where: Galveston Island
How Much: $25

Dickens’ A Christmas Carol 

Dickens' A Christmas Carol 

Image credit: The Grand 1894

Join Ebenezer Scrooge on a transformative journey as he encounters the spirits of Christmas Past, Present, and Future. Witness the heartwarming tale of redemption and discover the true meaning of the season.

When: Friday, December 6, 2024 | 8 pm
How Much: $27 – $50

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.

When: Saturday, December 7, 2024 – February 23, 2025 | 6 pm 
How Much: $28.50 for ages 3 and up | Free for kids 3 and under

The Nutcracker by the Houston Ballet

Things to do in Houston this weekend of November 29 | The Nutcracker by the Houston Ballet

Image credit: 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.

When: Saturday, December 7, 2024 – December 29, 2024 
How Much: Starts at $44

A Charlie Brown Christmas 5K, 10K & Kids Dash

Things to do in Houston this weekend of December 6 | A Charlie Brown Christmas 5K, 10K & Kids Dash

Image credit: runsignup

The A Charlie Brown Christmas 5K, 10K & Kids Snoopy Dash is back for its third year, and it’s bigger and better than ever. Lace up your running shoes and experience the magic of Christmas as you race through the festive course. Don’t miss your chance to snag limited-edition Peanuts race swag and support a great cause.

When: Saturday, December 7, 2024 | 8 am – 5 pm
How Much: $42.95 – $57.95

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 7, 2024 – January 26, 2025 
How Much: $15

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.

When: Saturday, December 7 – 22, 2024 
How Much: Starts at $35

Holiday Vibe Market

Holiday VIBE Market

Image Credit: POST HTX

Discover a curated selection of unique gifts from over 120 local artists and makers at the stunning X-Atrium in POST HTX.

Indulge in fine art, ceramics, leather goods, blown glass, and more. Enjoy live music, complimentary cocktails, and festive photo ops with Santa.

When: Saturday, December 7 – 8, 2024 | 11 am – 5 pm
How Much: Free

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, November 30 – 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 30, 2024 – January 5, 2025| 6 pm – 10 pm
How Much: $19.95 – $27.95 | Free for children under 3

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. 
 
This winter wonderland awaits you until January 11th.
 
When: Sunday, December 8, 2024 | 5 pm – 10 pm
How Much: $7 – $10 | Free for children 5 and under 

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 8 – 30, 2024| 6 pm – 10 pm
How Much: $21 for adults | $14 for kids aged 5 – 12

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 8 – 21, 2024| 6 pm – 10 pm
How Much: Free
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, December 8 – 29, 2024 
How Much: Starts at $31

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Natalie Dulaney