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 November 29.

Check out the full list below!


HOLIDAY TOP PICK – Holiday Magic on Galveston Island!

Holiday Magic on Galveston Island

Holiday Magic on Galveston Island

Escape to Galveston Island this winter for a unique holiday experience where coastal charm meets holiday magic! Enjoy 50+ days of festive fun with twinkling palm trees, Victorian splendor, and warm Gulf Coast hospitality. Discover holiday events, explore historic streets, and relax on sunny beaches. Find your Winter Wonder Island adventure in Galveston!

Some of the most anticipated events on the island include:

  • Nov 8 – Dec 23: The Polar Express
  • Nov 15 – Jan 4: The Grand 1894 Opera House Holiday Season
  • Nov 23 – Jan 1: Holiday in the Gardens at Moody Gardens
  • Nov – Dec 2024: Holiday Shopping in Galveston’s Historic Downtown District
  • Nov 30: Galveston’s Official Tree Lighting in Downtown and ArtWalk

For more details on all upcoming events on Galveston island, check out their website!


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 Best Attractions in Houston!


Free and Cheap Events in Houston this Weekend

Skating Stars on the Ice

Houston’s top figure skaters are taking the ice at Discovery Green for a dazzling 15-minute performance on the Green Mountain Energy Ice.

And the fun doesn’t stop there! You can lace up your skates and glide across the ice daily until February 2, 2025.

When: Sunday, December 1, 2024 | 7 pm – 7:15 pm
How Much: Free

Holiday at Hendley Green in Galveston

Galveston Historical Foundation is kicking off the holiday season with a free, festive extravaganza at Hendley Green in Historic Downtown Galveston.

Indulge in holiday cheer with a Dickens Pub offering craft beer and wine, snap a photo with Santa in his sleigh, savor roasted chestnuts, and join in on fun games and activities. Don’t forget to pen a letter to the jolly old elf himself!

The fun doesn’t stop there! Join the crowd as they head to nearby Saengerfest Park for the City of Galveston’s official Tree Lighting Ceremony.

When: Saturday, November 30, 2024 | 4 pm – 6 pm
How Much: Free

Galveston’s Official Tree Lighting Ceremony

The City of Galveston is illuminating the season with its official Christmas tree lighting at Saengerfest Park. Join Santa Claus, Queen Victoria of the 51st annual Dickens on the Strand, and the talented Galveston Ballet for a magical evening.

When: Saturday, November 30, 2024 | 6 pm – 8 pm
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, November 29, 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, November 29, 2024 – January 5, 2025 
How Much: Anytime tickets: $36 | General tickets: Starts at $30

3rd Annual Nutcracker Market

Discover a winter wonderland of unique treasures at the Moody Gardens Ballroom. From exquisite jewelry to delectable gourmet treats, you’ll find the perfect gift for everyone on your list.

When: Friday, November 29, 2024 | 3 pm – 7 pm
How Much: $6 | Free for kids under 9 

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, November 29, 2024 | 3 pm – 7 pm
How Much: $6 | Free for kids under 9 

Usher in Concert

Usher in Concert

Image credit: Usher

Usher’s Past, Present, Future Tour is coming to Toyota Center on November 27, 29 & 30!

Fresh off his legendary Super Bowl LVIII Halftime Show and the release of his ninth studio album, Coming Home, Usher is bringing his electrifying performance to Houston. Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic live!

When: Friday, November 29 – 30, 2024 | 8 pm
How Much: Not stated

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, November 30, 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, November 30, 2024 – December 29, 2024 
How Much: Starts at $44

The Twelve Ways of Christmas 

The Twelve Ways of Christmas is a soulful celebration that will warm your heart and uplift your spirit. From November 15th to December 22nd, immerse yourself in a vibrant fusion of Jazz, R&B, and Gospel, as Chika Kaba Ma’atunde’s captivating story unfolds.

Experience the joy, the sorrow, and the love that defines the holiday season. Under the expert direction and choreography of Aisha Ussery, this unforgettable production will leave you feeling inspired and uplifted.

When: Saturday, November 30, 2024 
How Much: $55 – $65

Sazon Latin Food Festival

Things to do in Houston this weekend of November 29 | Sazon Latin Food Festival

Image credit: Latin City

The Sazon Latin Food Festival is coming to Houston! Join us for two days of mouthwatering Latin cuisine, vibrant live music, and endless fun.

Bring your family and friends to experience the best of Latin America, all in one place. From sizzling street tacos to decadent desserts, there’s something to satisfy every craving. So come hungry and ready to indulge!

When: Saturday, November 30 – December 1, 2024 
How Much: Free

The Hip Hop Nutcracker

The Hip Hop Nutcracker

Image credit: Smart Financial Center

The Hip Hop Nutcracker is back and better than ever! This electrifying show blends the magic of Tchaikovsky’s classic ballet with the energy of modern hip-hop dance. Witness a dazzling performance by a talented cast of dancers, a live DJ, violinist, and hip-hop legend Kurtis Blow.

When: Saturday, November 30, 2024 | 7 pm 
How Much: Starts at $28

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 1, 2024 | 5 pm – 10 pm
How Much: $7 – $10 | Free for children 5 and under 

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 1 – 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 1 – 29, 2024 
How Much: Starts at $31

Also, check out our weekly updates on Things to Do in Houston with Kids this Weekend.

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Liezel L.