Celebrate the season with the The Woodlands community! Discover all the festive happenings in our guide. For The Woodlands locals and global nomads alike, this guide is your key to unlocking seasonal delights.
Popular Events: Experience the enchanting sights at the Moody Gardens Holiday Attractions, where dazzling light displays and festive activities create a magical atmosphere. Unique to the season is the Lighting of the Doves Festival, featuring beautifully illuminated doves that symbolize peace and hope. And the Christmas Train is something you definitely don't want to miss, offering a delightful ride through a winter wonderland. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Top Holiday Events In and Around The Woodlands
- Moody Gardens Holiday Attractions (Galveston)
- ICE @ Discovery Green (Houston)
- The Christmas Train (Alvin)
- Lighting of the Doves Festival
- Tree Lighting Ceremony
- Cookies & Cocoa with Santa & Friends
See these and even more events listed below!
The Woodlands Holiday Light Displays
Tree Lighting Ceremony
What to Expect:
Synchronized light and music display on a 70-foot Christmas tree.
Description:
A 70-foot Christmas tree in Central Park, synchronized to twinkling lights and holiday music, is the centerpiece of this free public event. One deserving family or individual, nominated as the 2024 Official Lighting Luminary, will light the tree in front of a cheering crowd.
Where: The Woodlands | More Info: Tree Lighting Ceremony
The Christmas Train
What to Expect:
Unique train ride experience through hundreds of thousands of lights and Christmas displays.
Description:
The Christmas Train at Victory Camp in Alvin offers a unique holiday experience with an old-fashioned train ride through hundreds of thousands of Christmas lights and displays. Enjoy the scenic route in open-air railroad coaches, take a stroll down the decorated walking trail for photo opportunities, and visit the concessions areas for handmade pizza, hot cocoa, cookies, popcorn, and cotton candy.
Where: Alvin | More Info: The Christmas Train
The Woodlands Holiday Shows and Entertainment
Lighting of the Doves Festival
What to Expect:
Ceremonial illumination of giant doves symbolizing peace.
Description:
The Lighting of the Doves Festival is a long-standing tradition in The Woodlands that signifies the start of the holiday season. It features traditional and international performances, showcasing cultural diversity and holiday traditions. The event includes snow play areas, vendor booths, children’s activities, and strolling entertainment, culminating with Santa Claus arriving by sleigh and a dazzling fireworks display.
Where: The Woodlands | More Info: Lighting of the Doves Festival
Cookies & Cocoa with Santa & Friends
What to Expect:
Santa and friends serve hot cocoa and cookies at the Ice Rink.
Description:
Join Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus, and their friends at the Ice Rink in Woodlands Town Center for a delightful morning of hot cocoa and cookies. Enjoy the festive atmosphere as you start your day with a touch of holiday cheer.
Where: The Woodlands | More Info: Cookies & Cocoa with Santa & Friends
Moody Gardens Holiday Attractions
What to Expect:
Immersive ice sculpture exhibit with polar animals and a giant ice slide.
Description:
Moody Gardens transforms into a holiday destination with attractions like ICE LAND, Festival of Lights, ice skating, and live shows. Enjoy a variety of activities suitable for all ages, including train rides, 3D films, and festive dining options.
Where: Galveston | More Info: Moody Gardens Holiday Attractions
The Woodlands Other Holiday Activities
ICE @ Discovery Green
What to Expect:
Unique outdoor skating experience with renewable energy and recycled materials.
Description:
Green Mountain Energy Ice at Discovery Green is an outdoor skating rink offering regular admissions and special discounts. Skaters must sign a waiver online after purchasing tickets, and all skaters must have a pre-purchased ticket to enter. The rink operates from November 15 through February 2, with special events and inclusive skating nights.
Where: Houston | More Info: ICE @ Discovery Green
Festive Fun in Nearby Cities!
Discover Holiday events in hundreds of cities worldwide. Check out these nearby locations for more festive fun!
- Spring (7 miles)
- Conroe (11 miles)
- Cypress (18 miles)
- Atascocita (22 miles)
- Houston (28 miles)
- Alief (32 miles)
- Cloverleaf (32 miles)
- Mission Bend (34 miles)
- Channelview (35 miles)
- Pasadena (36 miles)
- Missouri City (37 miles)
- Deer Park (38 miles)
- Sugar Land (38 miles)
- Huntsville (39 miles)
- Baytown (42 miles)
- Pearland (43 miles)
- La Porte (44 miles)