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 6 include:

Free Activities this Weekend: Annual Dickens on the Strand and Reliant Mayor’s Holiday Spectacular 2024

Top Picks for Friday: Dickens’ A Christmas Carol and A Berry Merry Christmas at Dewberry Farms

Things to Do on Saturday: Jingle on the Boardwalk and A Charlie Brown Christmas 5k, 10k, & Kids Dash

Best Events on Sunday: Gingerbread Village and Holiday Delights: A Coastal Christmas


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!


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!


Free Events For Kids in Houston this Weekend

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.

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

Memorial Wishes at Memorial City Mall

Get ready to have Santa hear your wishes at Memorial City Mall. The event is best for kids 6 and under.
 
When: Friday, December 6, 2024
How Much: Free

51st Annual Dickens on the Strand

Things to do in Houston with kids this weekend of December 6 | Galveston Island Dickens On The Strand

Galveston Island Dickens On The Strand

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

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

Fun Kids Activities in Houston this Weekend of December 6 – 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 6, 2024 – December 23, 2024 
How Much: $29.95

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 6, 2024 – January 5, 2025 
How Much: Start at $27.50

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

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 6 – December 30, 2024 
How Much: Starts at $39.95 

Holiday Train at Hermann Park

Hop on the Hermann Park Railroad for a magical holiday adventure.

Experience the wonder of the season as you ride through the park, surrounded by twinkling lights and festive tunes.

When: Friday, December 6, 2024 – January 5, 2025
How Much: $6 all day pass weekdays | $7 all day pass weekends

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, November 29, 2024 – December 31, 2024
How Much: $25 for adults | $16 for kids

Fun Kids Activities in Houston this Weekend – Saturday, December 7

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

Make your holiday mornings magical with Breakfast with Santa! Enjoy a delicious breakfast, capture precious moments with Santa at the Holiday Selfie Station, and create lasting memories with your loved ones.
 
Reserve your spot now for December 7-8 and December 21-22, or simply walk in on December 14-15.
 
When: Saturday, December 7, 2024 | 9 am – 1 pm
How Much: Not stated

Capture magical moments with Santa, hum along to holiday tunes, and unleash your creativity with festive crafts.

Indulge in holiday shopping, savor warm cocoa, and groove to live music. Create lasting memories with loved ones as you experience the enchantment of the season at Kemah Boardwalk.

When: Saturday, December 7, 2024 
How Much: Not stated

Take a jolly old-fashioned train ride in open-air coaches while experiencing hundreds of Christmas lights and displays. There will also be Santa’s Speedway with go-karts and a free Elf show. Concessions are available. 
 
When: Saturday, November 30 – December 24, 2024 
How Much: Starts at $12 | Free for kids 2 and under

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

Join the Houston Rockets Dog Walk and enjoy a scenic stroll through one of Houston’s most beautiful parks. After the walk, stick around for a fun-filled party in Lake Plaza, complete with music, treats, and plenty of furry friends.
 
When: Saturday, December 7, 2024 | 8 am
How Much: Free

Enjoy a spectacular 20-minute hayride where you’ll dive into a dazzling display of Christmas lights.
 
When: Saturday, November 30 – December 24, 2024 
How Much: Starts at $15

Things to Do in Houston with Kids this Weekend – Sunday, December 8

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 8, 2024 
How Much: Starts at $34

Holiday Delights: A Coastal Christmas

Holiday Delights: A Coastal Christmas

Image credit: The Bryan Museum Galveston

This holiday season, the Bryan museum transforms into a whimsical wonderland filled with ocean-themed decorations, games, and crafts. Snap a photo with a mermaid, write a letter to Santa, and cuddle cute animals at the petting zoo.

Don’t miss the exciting elf hunt, delicious food truck treats, and enchanting storybook readings.

When: Sunday, December 8, 2024 | 10 am – 2 pm
How Much: Free

Gingerbread Village

Things to do in Houston with kids this weekend of December 6 | 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 8, 2024 | 10 am – 8 pm
How Much: Free 

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!

When: Sunday, December 1, 2024 
How Much: Free if dressed in the theme

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

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Nicole Rotschi