Fun Kids Activities in Houston this Weekend

Fun Kids Activities in Houston this Weekend

Our top picks for Fun Kids Activities in Houston this Weekend of December 27 include:

Free Activities this WeekendSnow Glow on the Bayou and Dickinson Festival of Lights

Top Picks for Friday: Polar Palooza and Monty the Magician

Things to Do on SaturdaySing! Play! Move! and Weather Wonders

Best Events on Sunday: Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet and Hanukkah Celebration


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 Things to do in Houston this Christmas Week, Radiant Nature Houston Botanic Garden, and Magical Winter Lights Houston!


Free Events For Kids in Houston this Weekend

Snow Glow on the Bayou

Enjoy a breathtaking digital spectacle of light and sound at Allen’s Landing. Projected onto a 4-story tall, 6-story wide water screen and reflecting on the water, Snow Globe can be watched from various vantage points. 

Grab your blanket, hot cocoa, and prepare to be enchanted by this unique holiday experience. 

Text “Downtown Holidays” to 56512 to access the Snow Glow map and discover the 12 enchanting City Light villages scattered throughout Downtown.

When: Friday, December 27, 2024 | 6 pm – 10 pm
How Much: Free

Skating Stars on the Ice

Discovery Green invites you to a captivating 15-minute demonstration on the Green Mountain Energy Ice. Watch as these talented athletes glide gracefully and perform breathtaking routines.

When: Sunday, December 29, 2024 | 7 pm – 7:15 pm
How Much: Free

Holiday Lights Display at Memorial Park

Presented by CenterPoint Energy Foundation, this dazzling display at Clay Family Eastern Glades will leave you breathless.

Discover a winter wonderland of lights, including a breathtaking holiday tree shimmering against the backdrop of Hines Lake. And stroll along the half-mile Promenade, marveling at the enchanting lanterns and vibrant displays illuminating the park.

When: Sunday, December 29, 2024 – January 6, 2025 | 6 pm – 9 pm
How Much: Free

Dickinson Festival of Lights

For a whole month,  visitors can immerse themselves in a dazzling display of lights, festive decorations, and holiday cheer. As you stroll through the park, you’ll be amazed by the intricate light displays that illuminate the trees, buildings, and pathways.
 
Don’t miss the chance to capture the perfect holiday photo with Santa Claus, who will be making special appearances throughout the event.
 
To make your visit even more convenient, free shuttle services are available on select dates. If you’re looking for more festivities, check out our 2024 Guide to Free Christmas Events in Houston!
 
When: Friday, December 27 – 30, 2024
How Much: Free

Fun Kids Activities in Houston this Weekend of December 27 – 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!

When: Friday, December 27, 2024 
How Much: $29.95

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.

When: Friday, December 27 – 29, 2024 | 7:30 pm – 9:45 pm 
How Much: Start at $36.75

Polar Palooza

Things to do in Houston with kids this weekend of December 27 | Polar Palooza

Image credit: Children’s Museum Houston

Unleash your inner Willy Wonka at the Candy Workshop!

Build towering castles of candy, create whimsical sculptures of sugary delights, and witness the mesmerizing art of Dragon’s Beard Candy Making. This is where your sweetest dreams come to life.

When: Friday, December 27, 2024 – January 4, 2025 | 9 am – 5 pm 
How Much: $19.95 | Members and under 1 FREE

 

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!

When: Friday, December 27, 2024 – January 5, 2025 
How Much: Start at $27.50

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!

When: Friday, December 27 – 30, 2024 
How Much: Starts at $39.95 

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.

When: Friday, December 27 – 31 , 2024 
How Much: $25 for adults | $16 for kids

Monty the Magician Holiday Magic Show

Monty the Magician Holiday Magic Show

Image credit: Woodland Children’s Museum

Monty the Magician is bringing his extraordinary holiday magic shows to you at 10:30 AM, 11:30 AM, 12:30 PM, and 1:30 PM.

Get ready for a hilarious and heartwarming performance that will leave you spellbound and grinning from ear to ear.

When: Friday, December 27, 2024 | 10:30 am – 1:30 pm
How Much: $9

Fun Kids Activities in Houston this Weekend – Saturday, December 28

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 28 – 29, 2024 | 5:30 pm – 9:30 pm
How Much: Starts at $27.99

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. This event always makes my holiday activities list and sometimes we even make a return trip!

When: Saturday, December 28, 2024 – February 23, 2025 | 6 pm 
How Much: $28.50 for ages 3 and up | Free for kids 3 and under

Moody Gardens Holiday in the Gardens

Immerse yourself in a winter wonderland at Moody Gardens’ Holiday in the Gardens. This annual holiday extravaganza transforms the gardens into a magical spectacle, featuring dazzling lights, festive decorations, and thrilling attractions like Ice Land and another Festival of Lights, just like the one last year!
 
When:  Saturday, December 28, 2024 – January 1, 2025
How Much: Varies

Houston Grand Opera: Sing! Move! Play!

Things to do in Houston with kids this weekend of July 5 | Houston Grand Opera presents Storybook Opera

Image credit: Levy Park Houston

Head to Levy Park this weekend and enjoy storybook opera with the kids. This weekend, the Houston Grand Opera will be celebrating the opera’s greatest hits through workshops. 
 
When:  Saturday, December 28, 2024 | 11 am
How Much: Free

Weather Wonders with Meteorologist Maggie

Embark on a captivating journey exploring the water cycle, the magic of cloud formation, and the fascinating forces that shape our weather.

Through enchanting puppetry and mesmerizing ventriloquism, you’ll witness the power of rain, the awe-inspiring beauty of a rainbow, and even the destructive force of a tornado.

This interactive performance is a thrilling experience for all ages. So come, discover the secrets of the sky and ignite your curiosity about the weather!

When:  Saturday, December 28, 2024 | 10:30 am – 1:30 pm
How Much: $9

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 28, 2024 – January 5, 2025| 6 pm – 10 pm
How Much: $19.95 – $27.95 | Free for children under 3

Things to Do in Houston with Kids this Weekend – Sunday, December 29

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.

When: Sunday, December 29, 2024 
How Much: Starts at $34

Join Chabad of Sugar Land for a dazzling evening of festivities. Witness the magnificent Menorah lighting and immerse yourself in a world of holiday cheer.

Enjoy exciting activities for the whole family, including thrilling bounce houses, captivating face painting, and whimsical balloon art. And delight in delicious fresh donuts and unleash your creativity with exciting crafts.

When: Sunday, December 29, 2024 | 4 pm – 6 pm
How Much: Free

Enjoy an unforgettable celebration of America’s favorite holiday tradition, featuring a dazzling international cast of world-class ballet dancers, whimsical puppets, lavish costumes, and breathtaking acrobatics.

When: Sunday, December 29, 2024 | 3 pm
How Much: Starts at $40

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.

When: Sunday, December 29, 2024 | 10 am – 8 pm
How Much: Free

Gingerbread Village

Things to do in Houston with kids this weekend of December 27 | Gingerbread Village

Image credit: City Place

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.

When: Sunday, December 29, 2024 | 10 am – 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 29 – 30, 2024| 6 pm – 10 pm
How Much: $21 for adults | $14 for kids aged 5 – 12

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Nicole Rotschi