Every year, we watch The Woodlands transform into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. With twinkling lights, festive events, and a warm sense of community spirit, visitors from far and wide come to The Woodlands to enjoy some festive cheer. 

The 2024 season is gearing up to be extra special. "The Woodlands really comes alive during the holiday season with all kinds of different activities and visual aspects, particularly in the Town Center," said Nick Wolda, President, Visit The Woodlands. 

The Woodlands Ice Rink

The Woodlands Ice Rink | Photo Courtesy of Mauricio Ramirez

WHAT MAKES THE HOLIDAY SEASON SO UNIQUE?

In The Woodlands, the most magical time of the year kicks off with the Lighting of The Doves. Celebrating its 42nd year, this beloved tradition begins with a grand celebration at Town Green Park. The event symbolizes holiday peace and love, with glowing doves soaring above as Santa glides down The Woodlands Waterway on a sleigh boat, followed by a brilliant fireworks show.

With average daytime high temperatures reaching 73 degrees in November and 65 degrees in December, it’s also an ideal time to enjoy time in the great outdoors. 
As the days shorten, you can experience atmospheric winter evenings. New for 2024, visitors and residents alike can enjoy glittering festive lights along The Woodlands Waterway. 
Visit The Woodlands recommends a visit during this special time of year.

The Woodlands Resort - Santa's Mailbox

Santa's Mailbox at The Woodlands Resort | Photo Courtesy of The Woodlands Resort

Market Street in Lights in The Woodlands, Texas

Market Street in Lights | Photo Courtesy of Market Street

ESCAPE TO 'THE DOWNTOWN IN THE FOREST'

The Woodlands is the perfect location for a winter getaway. For many Texans, it is within short driving distance and there are 14 incredible hotels in which to choose. One of the goals at Visit The Woodlands during the festive period is to encourage visitors to book an overnight stay. Visit The Woodlands’ activity is funded by hotel occupancy taxes, so when visitors book stays at local hotels, they play a key role in the community’s economy. For visitors, Sunday night visits offer a fantastic experience, with less crowds and generally lower hotel rates available. 

"We refer to The Woodlands Town Center sometimes as our 'Downtown in the Forest' because of the vibrancy of shopping, dining, hospitality and entertainment in the beautifully-forested Township," said Nick Wolda, President of Visit The Woodlands.

Santa on The Waterway at Lighting of the Doves

Santa on The Woodlands Waterway during Lighting of The Doves

5 HOLIDAY SUGGESTIONS FROM THE VISIT THE WOODLANDS TEAM
  • Take the family to the Ice Rink at The Pavilion, which is open from mid-November to mid-January.
  • Kayak along The Waterway to admire the holiday lights and colorful fall foliage.
  • Explore the outdoors with over 220 miles of tree-lined pathways throughout The Woodlands and several hiking trails through George Mitchell Nature Preserve.
  • Enjoy Market Street’s shopping and restaurants, and don’t miss the 70-foot-tall Christmas tree’s musical light show. 
  • Browse for the perfect holiday gifts and meet Santa at The Woodlands Mall.

Learn more about holiday activities: www.visitthewoodlands.com/holiday

Explore Holiday Activities