The Woodlands Winter Holiday Events
A Magical Season of Family Fun
The holiday season in The Woodlands, Texas, is a time of celebration, tradition, and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re a local or visiting for the festivities, there’s no shortage of Winter Events and Christmas Holiday Activities to enjoy. From ice skating to dazzling fireworks, The Woodlands Winter Wonderland offers something for everyone.
Iconic Holiday Traditions in The Woodlands
The Ice Skating Rink in The Woodlands Town Center
Nestled in the heart of The Woodlands Winter Wonderland, the ice skating rink provides a festive experience for skaters of all ages. Surrounded by twinkling lights and holiday decor, it’s the perfect way to embrace the season and create lasting family memories.
The Annual Lighting of The Doves Festival
A cornerstone of holiday celebrations in The Woodlands, the Lighting of The Doves—also known as The Woodlands Winter Holiday Festival/IWOW—is a beloved tradition. Originally held in Town Center near Market Street, this iconic event now takes place at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, offering a permanent and expansive venue for the festivities.
The festival features:
- Cultural Performances: Enjoy international showcases that highlight the rich diversity of holiday traditions from around the world.
- Snow Play Areas: A winter wonderland for kids and families to enjoy.
- Vendor Booths: Discover unique gifts, crafts, and holiday treats.
- Children’s Activities: Fun-filled games and crafts to keep little ones entertained.
- Strolling Entertainers: Holiday characters and performers add to the festive atmosphere.
The event reaches its climax with a grand arrival by Santa Claus, who makes a spectacular entrance via sleigh along The Woodlands Waterway, followed by a breathtaking fireworks display that lights up the night sky.
Why Celebrate the Holidays in The Woodlands?
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Perfect for kids, teens, and adults alike.
- Cultural Diversity: Experience a variety of holiday traditions from around the globe.
- Memorable Moments: Iconic events like Santa’s arrival and the fireworks display make it a holiday season to remember.
Plan Your Visit
Make The Woodlands Winter Holiday Events part of your seasonal celebrations. Whether you’re skating at the ice rink, exploring the Lighting of The Doves Festival, or simply enjoying the festive atmosphere, you’ll find plenty of ways to embrace the holiday spirit.
Winter in The Woodlands: A Celebration of Global Traditions and Festive Cheer
Winter in The Woodlands, Texas, is a magical season filled with holiday celebrations that embrace cultural diversity and bring people together in the spirit of the season. The Lighting of the Doves Festival offers a unique opportunity to experience holiday traditions from around the world while enjoying the charm of this vibrant community.
A Global Holiday Experience
At the Lighting of the Doves Festival, visitors can immerse themselves in festive traditions with international flair:
- Listen to carolers singing the German version of “Silent Night” (Stille Nacht, Heilige Nacht) around a beautifully decorated Tannenbaum.
- Savor the tastes of the season, from Buñuelos de Navidad (a sweet treat from south of the border) to the French-inspired Bûche de Noël.
- Enjoy arts and crafts, music, and entertainment that celebrate the rich tapestry of global holiday traditions.
Festive Activities for All Ages
The festival offers something for everyone, ensuring a memorable experience for families and individuals alike:
- Interactive Booths and Games: Engage in hands-on holiday fun.
- Balloon Artists and Face Painters: Perfect for kids and the young at heart.
- Inflatables and Snow Hill: Bring a touch of winter magic to The Woodlands.
- Ice Carving Displays: Watch skilled artisans create frosty masterpieces.
The Lighting of the Doves Ceremony
The evening culminates in the iconic Lighting of the Doves, a cherished tradition symbolizing peace and unity. This spectacular display lights up Lake Robbins Bridge and continues to illuminate The Woodlands throughout the holiday season. The ceremony concludes with a dazzling fireworks display, offering a magical end to an unforgettable evening.
Tips for a Joyful Experience
- Check the Schedule: Stay informed about performance times to catch your favorite acts.
- Dress Appropriately: Festive attire enhances the experience and makes for great photos.
- Bring Payment Options: Some activities and concessions require payment; having both cash and cards is advisable.
Christmas Activities at Town Green Park: Festive Fun in The Woodlands
Celebrate the holiday season at Town Green Park in The Woodlands, Texas, where a variety of Christmas activities and entertainment await. This annual event transforms the park into a festive wonderland, offering exciting performances, family-friendly attractions, and seasonal delights for all ages.
Diverse Entertainment Across Multiple Stages
Experience a rich lineup of performances on the Celebration Stage and the Festival Stage. Enjoy acts ranging from Irish and Spanish dancers to Scottish bagpipers, providing a cultural tapestry of entertainment. With scheduled events throughout the day, there’s always something to captivate your interest.
Complimentary and Ticketed Activities
This family-oriented festival offers a mix of free and ticketed attractions:
- Complimentary Activities:
- Craft Zones: Engage in creative projects with The Woodlands Children’s Museum.
- Live Reindeer Photo Area: Capture memorable holiday photos.
- Balloon Art and Face Painting: Delight the young and young at heart.
- Ticketed Attractions:
- Snow Play Areas and Snow Slides: A $5 wristband is required for access. Wristbands can be purchased onsite at the event with cash or a credit card. Please be advised if paying with cash, change will not be available. Lighting of The Doves
Concessions offering a variety of foods and beverages will be available for purchase, with prices varying by vendor.
Event Admission and Details
- Admission: Free for all attendees.
- Wristbands for Snow Attractions: $5 per person, granting unlimited access to snow play areas and slides.
- Concessions: Available for purchase; prices vary.
Stay Informed
Please note that the entertainment schedule and pricing are subject to change without notice. For the most current information, refer to official event communications or local guides like TheWoodlands.Guide.
Embrace the holiday spirit at Town Green Park in The Woodlands, where festive entertainment and activities create lasting memories for the entire family.
Waterway Swans Paddle Boats
Experience the charm of swan boat rentals along The Woodlands Waterway, offering a delightful way to explore this scenic area. The Riva Row Boat House provides swan pedal boats that comfortably seat up to four people, making them ideal for families and groups. For a unique evening adventure, consider the Starlight Swan Rides, available on select Friday nights. These illuminated boats create a magical atmosphere as you glide under the stars. Riva Row Swan Boats at Night
Alternatively, The Woodlands Mall offers swan boat rentals for a leisurely experience. Located between P.F. Chang’s, North Italia, and The Cheesecake Factory, these boats are perfect for a relaxing ride after shopping. Each rental accommodates up to four passengers, providing a serene way to enjoy the Waterway’s beauty. Swan Boat Rentals at The Woodlands Mall
Whether you choose the enchanting Starlight Swan Rides or a daytime excursion from The Woodlands Mall, swan boat rentals offer a memorable way to experience The Woodlands Waterway.
The Woodlands Lighting of the Doves Festival: A Beloved Holiday Tradition
Kick off the holiday season with the Lighting of the Doves Festival, a cherished tradition in The Woodlands, Texas, that celebrates peace, joy, and community. Held every November, this family-friendly festival features an array of exciting activities, including snow play areas, children’s crafts, and live entertainment. Visitors can enjoy balloon art, face painting, and cultural performances that highlight the diversity of holiday traditions worldwide. As the evening unfolds, Santa Claus makes a grand entrance by sleigh along The Woodlands Waterway, followed by the ceremonial illumination of the iconic giant doves and a dazzling fireworks display.
Don’t miss the chance to explore vendor booths offering unique gifts, delicious concessions, and interactive experiences. Admission is free, but access to the snow play areas and slides requires a $5 wristband, available for purchase onsite. Capture the holiday spirit at the Live Reindeer Photo Area and share your festive snapshots with the community. With its vibrant atmosphere and seasonal charm, the Lighting of the Doves Festival is the perfect way to welcome the holidays in The Woodlands.
Kick Off the Holidays at The Junior League Holiday Market in The Woodlands
Start your holiday season at the Annual Junior League Holiday Market, held every November on the weekend before Thanksgiving at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel & Convention Center. This shopping extravaganza features a wide selection of unique finds, including items from local boutiques, personalized gifts, and festive holiday décor—perfect for checking off your gift list early and treating yourself along the way!
More than just a shopping event, the Junior League Holiday Market supports the local community. All proceeds benefit programs in North Harris County and Montgomery County, addressing food insecurity, teen empowerment, and resources for women, children, and families. Mark your calendar for this can’t-miss opportunity to shop for a cause and embrace the holiday spirit!
Christmas in The Woodlands Texas
- Pictures with Santa
- Lighting of the Doves
- Winter Wonderland
- The Woodlands Ice Rink
- New Year’s Eve
- Valentine’s Day
Christmas Shopping in The Woodlands: Your Ultimate Holiday Guide
Get ready to make your holiday shopping magical in The Woodlands, Texas! With a blend of national retailers and charming boutique shops, this vibrant community offers endless options to find the perfect gifts for everyone on your list. Explore the Woodlands Mall, home to popular brands and seasonal favorites, or visit the unique specialty merchants scattered across more than a dozen shopping centers throughout the area.
Don’t miss Market Street, where the Christmas shopping season begins in style with the Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony in Central Park at Town Center. This festive kickoff sets the perfect tone for your holiday shopping experience, with dazzling lights, holiday décor, and new shops waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re hunting for the latest trends or one-of-a-kind treasures, The Woodlands is your go-to destination for Christmas shopping this season.
Winter Festival Parking Guide: Convenient Options in The Woodlands Town Center
Attending the Winter Festival in The Woodlands Town Center? Here’s an updated guide to parking options to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience:
Complimentary Parking
- Town Center Parking Garage: Located at 2005 Lake Robbins Drive, adjacent to The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion. This garage offers free self-parking for festival attendees.
- Surface Lot at Lake Robbins Drive & Six Pines Drive: Situated near the Township Multi-Use Building, this lot provides free parking.
- 24 Waterway Square Parking Garage: Limited complimentary spaces are available here.
- Waterway Square Parking Garage: Offers some free parking spots.
- Surface Lot at Timberloch Place & Waterway Avenue: Complimentary parking is available in this lot.
Paid Parking
- Town Center Parking Garage on Six Pines Drive: Additional paid parking spaces are available in this garage.
- Surface Lot at Lake Robbins Drive & Six Pines Drive: This lot may require payment during peak times.
- 24 Waterway Square Parking Garage: Paid parking options are available here.
- Waterway Square Parking Garage: Offers paid parking with convenient access to festival activities.
- Surface Lot at Timberloch Place & Waterway Avenue: This lot may charge for parking during event periods.
Accessible Parking
- Gold Lot Adjacent to Town Center Parking Garage: Accessible parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis for vehicles displaying proper state identification. Access is via Six Pines Drive.
- South County Regional Library Lot: Located just west of Town Green Park on Lake Robbins Drive, this lot offers free accessible parking for vehicles with handicap plates or placards.
Note: Parking availability and fees are subject to change during events. It’s advisable to arrive early to secure your preferred parking spot and to check for any updates or changes to parking arrangements before attending the festival.
Go see a Movie on the big screen!
With 4 area Movie Theaters in The Woodlands Texas, finding a big screen flic is simple. AMC, Cinemark, Cinepolis, and Xscape. Cinepolis features food and (adult) beverage service along with the latest movies to hit the big screen.
AMC Theater
Metropark Square 10 Shenandoah, Texas
CinemarkTheater
Cinemark XD Town Center
Cinépolis Theater
Village Creekside Park West
Xscape Theater
FM 1488 @ Old Conroe Rd
Reel Luxury Cinema
9995 Six Pines Market Street
The Woodlands Texas Activities Guide
Family Activities
For the same reasons many choose to make their home here, families find charm and appeal in spending a day, a weekend or a week in The Woodlands.
Waterway Activities
The centerpiece of Waterway Square is the 120' Waterwall and circular fountain featuring regularly scheduled light and music shows. The public venue also features restaurants, hotels, and is the nightlife area of The Woodlands Texas.
Festivals in The Woodlands
Several festivals and other outdoor events held throughout the year in Town Center. Festival events are frequently held on the Great Lawn in Town Green Park including, the Annual Crawfish festival.
Sports Activities
From the jogging loop in Grogan's Mill, you can travel along the pathways to Disc Golf courses, pickle ball courts, Bocci Ball, and various playfields.
Swimming Pools
Live Music in The Woodlands
Throughout the year, you’ll hear about concerts, performance art shows, festivals and free live music, all happening in The Woodlands.