Our top picks for Fun Kids Activities in Houston this Weekend of December 13 include:
Free Activities this Weekend: Christmas Boat Parade and 15th Annual Gingerbread Build-Off
Top Picks for Friday: Disney’s Frozen and Santa’s Wonderland
Things to Do on Saturday: Stearman Santa and 2nd Annual Holiday Market at Houston Toy Museum
Best Events on Sunday: Blippi: Join the Band Tour
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.
Also check out our articles on the 2024 Guide To Christmas Tree Lighting Houston, Radiant Nature Houston Botanic Garden, and Magical Winter Lights Houston!
Top Pick – Green Mountain Energy Ice at Discovery Green
Green Mountain Energy Ice at Discovery Green® is back, transforming the heart of downtown into a dazzling outdoor ice rink. Glide beneath the shimmering city lights from November 15th through February 2nd and create unforgettable memories on the ice.
Discovery Green is making it easier than ever to enjoy the ice this season with special promotions and themed nights:
- Cheap Skate Mondays
- We Love Houston Wednesdays – BOGO
- Student Discount Night
- Happy Hour Fridays
Beyond the special offers, Discovery Green has a full calendar of events to keep the festive spirit alive:
- Skate Party Saturdays
- Skating Stars
- Sundays with Santa
- Inclusive Skating Nights
More Details:
- Location: Discovery Green, 1500 McKinney St, Houston, TX 77010
- Hours: Vary by day, check the website for the full schedule.
- Tickets: All tickets must be purchased online. Tickets will not be available for purchase at the ice rink will-call window.
- Pricing: $18 + tax (includes skate rental for 75 minutes).
- Waiver: All skaters must sign a waiver online after purchasing tickets.
Green Mountain Energy Ice at Discovery Green is the perfect place to create cherished holiday memories. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or a first-timer, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, bundle up, grab your friends and family, and head to Discovery Green for a winter wonderland experience!
Free Events For Kids in Houston this Weekend
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, 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.
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.
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.
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.
Fun Kids Activities in Houston this Weekend of December 13 – Friday
A Berry Merry Christmas at Dewberry Farms
Dewberry Farm is your one-stop shop for holiday cheer! Immerse yourself in a winter wonderland with 2 Dazzling Shows featuring 3 million twinkling lights. Build a Snowman, Toss Real Snowballs, and Meet Santa himself!
Best of all? Parking is free!
Disney’s Frozen
Experience the magic of this beloved musical, brought to life by TUTS, the first theater in the country chosen by Disney Theatrical to create its own production.
Embark on a snowy adventure with Elsa, Anna, Kristoff, Olaf, and Sven as they journey to save the kingdom from an eternal winter.
With its enchanting story, captivating music, and stunning visuals, Disney’s Frozen is a holiday treat that will delight the whole family.
Zoo Lights
Explore the zoo and find your favorite animals come to life in beautiful lanterns with Zoo Lights! Plus, get to marvel at the thousands of twinkling lights set up all around the area. Don’t forget to take pictures!
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.
Santa’s Wonderland
Ride hayrides and trains, listen to live music, shop ‘til you drop, and take a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride. Savor delicious treats at the food village, cozy up by the campfire, and most importantly, meet Santa himself!
Trains Over Texas at HMNS
This holiday season, make unforgettable memories with your family as you explore the largest indoor O-scale model railroad in Texas.
Watch as multiple trains wind their way through iconic landscapes, from the rugged beauty of Big Bend National Park to the bustling cities of Houston and Dallas. You’ll discover hidden gems like the Enchanted Rock and the Balcones Escarpment, all recreated with incredible detail.
Fun Kids Activities in Houston this Weekend – Saturday, December 14
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.
Stearman Santa at Lone Star Flight Museum
Super Saturday: Winter Wonderland
Things to Do in Houston with Kids this Weekend – Sunday, December 15
The Polar Express
Dress in your PJs and get ready for a fun-filled adventure on the Polar Express. You’ll meet beloved characters like the conductor, the singing chefs, and the hobo. And of course, you’ll get to meet Santa Claus himself!
Enjoy hot chocolate and cookies, and maybe even a tangle with a caribou. Once you arrive at the North Pole, you’ll dance with elves and receive a special gift from Santa: a silver sleigh bell.
Jingle on the Boardwalk
Capture magical moments with Santa, hum along to holiday tunes, and unleash your creativity with festive crafts at Kemah Boardwalk’s holiday special.
You can also indulge in holiday shopping, savor warm cocoa, and groove to live music.
Blippi: Join the Band Tour
Prepare to jam out with Blippi, Meekah, their singing and dancing buddies, and a live band as they explore the magical world of music.
From sounds and rhythms to instruments, this interactive show is packed with all your favorite Blippi hits. So grab your drumsticks, tune up your guitar, and get ready to dance the night away with Blippi!
Gingerbread Village
Wander through a magical wonderland of colossal candy canes, towering lollipops, and whimsical gingerbread creations. And follow the trail of sugary delights to the grand finale: a 16-foot gingerbread house and a 12-foot windmill.
Themed Skate Nights at Ice Skate Memorial City
Every weekend this season, the Ice-Skating Rink is hosting themed skate nights. Dress up as your favorite holiday character, don your coziest sweater, or top off your look with a festive hat. With every skate rental purchase, you’ll receive a free admission ticket!
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.Stay on top of all the fun events and activities in Houston with our weekly updates on Things to Do in Houston this Weekend!
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