The Woodlands Christmas Guide — Map & Go 🌟
Interactive • Live-Updated • Family-Friendly
Follow the glow with our live map of holiday magic across The Woodlands—Holiday on The Waterway, Lighting of the Doves, Market Street in Lights, The Woodlands Ice Rink, and Christmas at The Mall. Updated daily so you can tap, plan, and go. Download our app for push alerts & favorites: search “The Livable Forest” in your app store.
🌟 Open Live MapHoliday on The Waterway
NOVEMBER 22, 2025 — JANUARY 4, 2026
The Waterway transforms into a festive wonderland of lights and music—twinkling tunnels, oversized décor, and weekend sweet treats. Gather your crew and make it a shimmering night out!
What to Expect
- Oversized Decorations: Illuminated bows and giant presents (prime photo ops!).
- Twinkling Tunnels: Light-filled paths on the north side.
- Festive Displays: Snowflakes, icicles, whimsical deer, and radiant trees.
- Holiday Tunes: Music adds a cozy soundtrack to your stroll.
- Sweet Treats: Weekends, 5:30–8:30 p.m., in the South Plaza.
Official site: visitthewoodlands.com/events/holiday/waterway-lights/
Make It a Weekend
Turn it into a mini-getaway with holiday shopping, cozy dinners, and more winter activities around Town Center.
Lighting of The Doves
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2025
A beloved tradition symbolizing peace and good cheer—gather for Santa’s arrival, the grand illumination, and fireworks.
Schedule of Events (Tentative)
✨ Celebration Stage
- 3:00–5:00 p.m. | TBA
- 5:00 p.m. | Live Music by Nervous Rex (Variety)
- 7:00 p.m. | Holiday Greetings, Santa’s Arrival, Lighting of the Doves, Fireworks
- 8:00 p.m. | Event Concludes
❄️ Festival Stage
- 6:20 p.m. | Ice Carvers
More Festival Activities
Complimentary balloon art, airbrush tattoos, and crafts (while supplies last), plus strolling performers and live sets across two stages. A $5 wristband unlocks snow slides and play areas.
Parking
Free lots and garages near Town Center; accessible parking in the Green Lot. Hop the complimentary trolley for a festive loop.
Official site: visitthewoodlands.com/events/holiday/lighting-of-the-doves/
Market Street in Lights
NOVEMBER 20 — DECEMBER 31
Thousands of lights dance to holiday music in a magical three-minute show, performed hourly 5:30–9:30 p.m. all season. Shop, dine, and catch the glow!
Tree Lighting Ceremony
The season begins November 20 with the Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony when a 70-foot Christmas tree sparkles for the first time.
What to Expect
- Hourly Light Shows: 5:30, 6:30, 7:30, 8:30 & 9:30 p.m.
- Festive Atmosphere: Photo-worthy décor across a walkable shopping & dining district.
- Make a Night of It: Browse shops, grab dinner, and enjoy one more show before you head out.
Official site: visitthewoodlands.com/events/holiday/market-street-in-lights/
Pro Tips
- Arrive 10–15 minutes before the hour to grab a good spot.
- Weekends fill quickly—plan a little extra time.
- For photos, step back across the green to capture the full canopy of lights.
The Woodlands Ice Rink
OPEN NOVEMBER 21, 2025 — JANUARY 19, 2026
An indoor rink with colorful lighting, a great sound system, party tables, and concessions—perfect for holiday memories.
Hours
Seasonal mid-November to mid-January. Hours may shift for holidays and events.
Regular Hours
- Mon–Thu: First 4:00 p.m. • Last 6:30 p.m.
- Fri: First 4:00 p.m. • Last 9:00 p.m.
- Sat: First 10:00 a.m. • Last 8:00 p.m.
- Sun: First 1:00 p.m. • Last 6:00 p.m.
School Holiday Hours
- First session: 10:00 a.m.
- Last session: 8:00 p.m.
Holiday Hours
- Thanksgiving Day: First 4:00 p.m. • Last 6:30 p.m.
- Christmas Eve: First 10:00 a.m. • Last 5:30 p.m.
- Christmas Day: First 4:00 p.m. • Last 6:30 p.m.
- New Year’s Eve: First 10:00 a.m. • Last 5:30 p.m.
- New Year’s Day: First 1:00 p.m. • Last 6:00 p.m.
Sensory-Friendly Sessions
Select Tuesdays at 1:30 p.m. feature reduced crowds, softer lighting, and lower sound for a calmer skate.
Pricing
$7–$15 per person (includes skate rental) for a 2-hour session. Helmets/walkers $10; table rental (seats 8) $25; plus tax.
Lessons, Parties & Groups
Book birthday parties, corporate events, private rentals, or lessons (individual or group). Tables are available for rent.
Christmas at The Mall
MID-NOVEMBER — DECEMBER 31
A 40-foot Christmas tree in The Courtyard springs to life with synchronized light-and-music shows every 30 minutes from sunset to close. Shop your list and soak in the season.
What You’ll See
- Tree Show: Every 30 minutes from sunset to close.
- Festive Courtyard: Photo-ready décor and room to gather.
- Shop & Stroll: Tackle gifts, then warm up with cocoa or a sit-down dinner.
Tips for a Merry Visit
- Arrive near sunset to catch the first show and lighter crowds.
- Weekends can be busy—plan a little extra time for parking.
- Stand back to frame the full tree and courtyard in one shot.
Download the app for push alerts & favorites: search “The Livable Forest”.
Junior League Holiday Market
FRI–SUN • NOVEMBER 21–23, 2025 • Preview Party: THU, NOVEMBER 20
A festive shopping extravaganza featuring local boutiques, personalized gifts, ornaments, and more—perfect for kicking off your holiday list (with a little something for you, too). Proceeds support Junior League of The Woodlands programs addressing food insecurity, teen empowerment, and standing in the gap for women, children, and families in our community.
What to Expect
- Curated Vendors: Local boutiques, handcrafted goods, ornaments, and seasonal gifts.
- Giveback: Every ticket helps fund JLTW community programs in North Harris & Montgomery Counties.
- Preview Party: Special Thursday evening kickoff for first-look shopping vibes.
Event Schedule
- Preview Party: Thu, Nov 20, 2025 (evening)
- Fri, Nov 21: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sat, Nov 22: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sun, Nov 23: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Note: Strollers welcome Fri & Sat after 2:00 PM, and all day Sunday. Dates/times tentative and subject to change.
Location & Parking
The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel & Convention Center
1601 Lake Robbins Dr, The Woodlands, TX 77380
- From I-45: Take exit 76B (southbound use 76) to Woodlands Pkwy.
- At second light (Six Pines Dr), turn right. Go 2 blocks.
- Turn right on Lake Robbins Dr; hotel will be on your right.
Good to Know
- Tickets: Purchase in advance for faster entry (Preview Party typically sells out).
- Peak Times: Late morning & mid-afternoon; arrive early for easier parking and shorter lines.
- Plan Ahead: Bring a tote for finds; consider a quick Courtyard tree show after you shop.
Official site: Junior League of The Woodlands — Holiday Market
2025 The Woodlands HS Band Holiday Market
SATURDAY • DECEMBER 6, 2025 • 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
A free, family-friendly shopping day hosted by The Woodlands High School Band Boosters—discover local artisans, boutique finds, gourmet goodies, food trucks, live performances, and plenty of holiday cheer.
What to Expect
- Artisan Marketplace: Art, jewelry, women’s & children’s boutique clothing, home & holiday décor.
- Food & Treats: Gourmet vendors and food trucks for easy lunch & snack breaks.
- Live Performances: Enjoy festive sets while you shop.
- Community Vibes: Support student programs while checking gifts off your list.
Schedule
- Sat, Dec 6: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Free admission. Family-friendly. Times subject to change—check official updates.
Location
The Woodlands High School
6101 Research Forest Dr
The Woodlands, TX 77381
- Allow extra time for campus parking.
- Follow on-site signs to the market entrance.
Vendors & Contact
- Vendor Interest: Email craftmarket@twhsband.org for an application invite.
- Organizer: TWHS Band (Band Boosters)
Official info/updates: Facebook Event
Picket Fences Holiday Open House
FRI–SAT • NOVEMBER 7–8, 2025 • 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Kick off the season in style—twinkling lights, lush garlands, sparkling ornaments, and cozy holiday accents across beautifully curated displays at Picket Fences.
What to Expect
- Complimentary Refreshments: Sip & snack while you shop festive décor vignettes.
- Daily Drawings: Prize giveaways both days, including a $250 Picket Fences Gift Card grand prize.
- First 100 Guests: Free ornament keepsake—arrive early!
- Decorating Demos with Jan: Pro tips for stunning, at-home holiday displays.
- Curated Holiday Shop: Ornaments, garlands, mantel décor, gifts, and seasonal accents.
Schedule
- Fri, Nov 7: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sat, Nov 8: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Arrive early to snag the free ornament (first 100 guests) and best selection.
Location
Picket Fences
19193 I-45
Shenandoah, TX 77385
- Plenty of nearby retail parking—allow a few extra minutes on peak hours.
- Consider carpooling for Saturday mid-day crowds.
Good to Know
- Wishlist Ready: Bring sizes/measurements (mantel, tabletop, doorway) for precise styling.
- Photo-Friendly: Capture demo ideas to re-create at home.
- Gift Strategy: Pick up teacher/hostess gifts and a few ornaments for last-minute exchanges.
Official info: Picket Fences — Holiday Open House
Craft Circle 45th Annual Boutique
2025 DATES TBA • Prior-year reference schedule below
Searching for meaningful, one-of-a-kind gifts? Shop beautiful, handcrafted items created by The Woodlands Methodist Church Craft Circle. All proceeds support missions partners serving around the world.
What to Expect
- Handcrafted Gifts: Seasonal décor, textiles, accessories, baby items, and more.
- Give with Purpose: Every purchase helps fund global mission work.
- Two Campuses: Events at both the Woodforest and The Woodlands campuses.
Woodforest Campus (Prior-Year Schedule)
Venue: Woodforest Worship Center
- Fri, Nov 7 | 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
- Sat, Nov 8 | 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
The Woodlands Campus (Prior-Year Schedule)
Venue: Wesley Hall
- Sat, Nov 15 | 9:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
- Sun, Nov 16 | 9:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Silent auction held on both campus dates.
Good to Know
- Arrive early for best selection of popular items.
- Bring a tote for multiple finds; consider a list for teachers/hosts.
- Watch for 2025 updates—times and dates can change year to year.
Official info: The Woodlands Methodist Church — Craft Circle Boutique
Holly Jolly Jingle
THURSDAY • DECEMBER 4, 2025 • Gates 6:00 PM • Show 7:00 PM
HO! HO! HOlly Jolly Jingle! A soaring, free holiday concert featuring 500+ Conroe ISD student musicians on the big stage—Christmas classics, carol sing-alongs, and pure seasonal magic. Free show • No ticket required.
What to Expect
- Mass Ensemble: Bands and choirs from across Conroe ISD fill the pavilion with festive favorites.
- Sing-Along Moments: Join in on beloved carols—bring your best holiday cheer.
- Photos with Santa: Complimentary pictures in the plaza before the show.
- Community Spirit: A night that celebrates the arts and the season—great for all ages.
Schedule
- Gates Open: 6:00 PM
- Showtime: 7:00 PM
- Tickets: Not required (free entry)
Arrive early for Santa photos in the plaza and to grab seats together.
Location
The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
The Woodlands, TX
- Outdoor venue—dress in layers for evening temps.
- Allow extra time for parking and bag checks.
Good to Know
- Free Show: No ticket needed; seating is first-come, first-served.
- Family-Friendly: Great for kids—consider ear protection for little ones.
- Concessions: Plan for snacks/drinks; check venue policies on outside items.
Official info: The Pavilion — Holly Jolly Jingle
Sensory Santa — The Woodlands Resort
SATURDAY • DECEMBER 6, 2025 • 1:00 PM
A gentle, festive Santa visit at The Woodlands Resort with sweet bites and seasonal flavors—crafted to make holiday moments a little brighter for every family.
What to Expect
- Festive Bites: Cake Pop “Ornaments,” Smoked Turkey & Cranberry Empanadas, Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks, and Warm Pumpkin Spice Donut Holes.
- Meet Santa: Cozy, photo-friendly time with Santa in a welcoming setting.
- Resort Ambiance: Beautiful holiday décor and relaxed vibes across the property.
Schedule
- Date: Sat, Dec 6, 2025
- Time: 1:00 PM (arrive a few minutes early)
- Tickets: Required; admission typically includes the featured bites.
Registration is limited—purchase tickets in advance to secure your spot.
Location
The Woodlands Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton
2301 North Millbend Drive
The Woodlands, TX 77381
- Follow resort signage to event check-in.
- Allow extra time for parking on busy weekends.
Good to Know
- Comfort First: Bring any comfort items your child prefers (headphones, fidgets, etc.).
- Photos: Have your camera ready; staff can often help with a quick family pic.
- Allergens: Ask on-site about ingredients for the featured bites.
Official info/tickets: The Woodlands Resort — Sensory Santa