Christmas has always been my favorite time of year. There’s something about the lights, the music, the traditions, and the collective permission to slow down just enough to enjoy something magical. In recent years, though, the holiday season has transformed into something even bigger—an ever-growing list of experiences, exhibits, performances, and events that make December feel less like a month and more like a full-blown festival season.
And honestly? I love it.
This year especially, it felt like everywhere I turned, there was another holiday outing calling my name.
One of the most meaningful moments of the season came when a friend and I finally checked something off my bucket list that had been sitting there for years: A Christmas Carol. Seeing it performed live was everything I hoped it would be—timeless, heartfelt, and deeply nostalgic. There’s a reason this story has endured for generations. Sitting in the audience, wrapped in the familiar themes of redemption, generosity, and second chances, felt like stepping into the very heart of Christmas itself.
That same day, we leaned into the holiday spirit a bit more casually with a visit to the “A Classic Christmas” exhibit at Katy Mills Mall. It was festive, charming, and a reminder that sometimes holiday magic shows up in unexpected places. Between the decorations and the cheerful atmosphere, it felt like another small but meaningful way to celebrate the season.
Not to be outdone, my husband and I made time for the Light Park exhibit at Katy Mills Mall, and it quickly became one of my favorite outings of the year. There’s something uniquely joyful about experiencing Christmas lights together—windows down, music playing, surrounded by thousands of twinkling lights synchronized to the season. It felt cozy, romantic, and wonderfully simple, the kind of memory that lingers long after the decorations come down.
On a quieter note, I also made a trip to Bayou Bend to see the Christmas Village, which offered a completely different kind of holiday experience. Stepping into that space felt like stepping back in time. The craftsmanship, history, and attention to detail created a peaceful, reflective atmosphere—one that reminded me that Christmas isn’t only about spectacle, but also about tradition and storytelling.
Even with all of that, I still ran out of time.
I had every intention of attending Dickens on the Strand, experiencing Drunk Christmas Carol, and visiting Artechouse Houston’s Holiday Special exhibit, but December had other plans. The calendar filled up faster than I expected, and suddenly the season was winding down before I could do it all. And yet, that seems to be the new reality of Christmas—there’s simply more to choose from than ever before.
Beyond my own outings, Houston itself seemed to glow with holiday energy. The Houston Zoo’s Christmas setup continues to be a seasonal favorite, while Santa’s Wonderland offers an immersive, larger-than-life experience that feels straight out of a Christmas movie. Add in pop-up markets, themed bars, concerts, and neighborhood events, and it’s clear that the city fully embraces the season.
While part of me wishes I could squeeze in every single event, another part of me appreciates that I don’t have to. The abundance of holiday experiences means there’s always something new to look forward to next year—and that the magic doesn’t disappear just because I missed a few things.
Christmas isn’t about doing everything. It’s about choosing moments that bring joy, connection, and meaning—and this season delivered all of that in spades. Even if I didn’t see it all, I felt it all. And that’s what makes Christmas my favorite time of year, no matter how busy it gets.
