Plan Your Weekend: December 14 to 17, 2023

Things to Do
All Weekend Long

• Mercury presents Caldara’s Christmas Cantata at Multiple Locations | Daily – The early music ensemble brings this joyful 18th century Italian masterpiece to life with five incredible singers. It’s part of the organization’s Neighborhood Series, with performances across Houston, held at MATCH (Thursday, December 14), Memorial Drive Presbyterian Church and the MFAH (Saturday, December 16) and Dosey Doe in the Woodlands (Sunday, December 17). $20 and up. Showtimes vary.
• Galaxy Lights at Space Center of Houston | Daily – Space Center Houston welcomes the return of Galaxy Lights, presented by Reliant—a stellar spectacle that twinkles throughout the campus and allows guests to step through space-themed light installations, take in high-tech experiences, and walk among flown space craft in a one-of-a-kind holiday event that can only be found in Space City. $19.95 and up; free for ages 3 and under. Save $5 on each ticket when you use promo code 365XLIGHTS at checkout. 6pm to 10pm.
• Merry Memories with Santa at Memorial City Mall | Daily – Meet St. Nick in a winter wonderland in the heart of Memorial City. Advance online reservations are strongly recommended. Sensory friendly greets are offered on Sundays from 11am to noon. Photo packages start at $39.99. Times vary.
• Comedian Annie Lederman at Houston Improv | Friday & Saturday – The comedian, actress, podcaster and writer, who cohosts the Trash Tuesdays podcast with Khahlya Kuhn and Esther Povistky, comes to Houston for back-to-back nights. She’s also known as a regular guest on other podcasts, including The Joe Rogan Experience, The Church with Joey Diaz, WTF with Marc Maron, and more. $44 for 2, and up. Times vary.
• The Urban Nutcracker Holiday Market at the Stafford Centre | Friday to Sunday – Celebrate Houston’s diverse cultures at this unique holiday shopping experience, where you’ll find an array of arts, crafts, homegoods and more—perfect for everyone on your list. $10 and up. 11am to 6:30pm.

Otaku Food & Anime Fest
Karbach Brewery
^{Saturday & Sunday}

For two days before the holidays, you can take in more than 100 food, anime and retail vendors staking out the Spring Branch brewery for the winter edition of this family-friendly fest. Check out a sumo tournament, compete in cosplay contests, and enjoy all-day entertainment while munching on street foods of Japan, Thailand, Vietnam and beyond.

FREE | Times vary

Learn More

• Houston’s Urban Nutcracker at the Stafford Centre | Friday to Sunday – This new and exciting twist on an the holiday classic explores the story through the proud cultural heritage of the city of Houston through dance, music and narration. $43.50 and up. Times vary. 
• Houston Symphony presents Handel’s Messiah at Jones Hall | Friday to Sunday – The holiday tradition is back with Handel’s enduring oratorio chronicling the greatest story ever told. The Houston Symphony Chorus sings alongside the orchestr7a, and the score features the iconic “Hallelujah” chorus. $42 and up. Friday and Saturday at 7:30pm; Sunday at 2:30pm.
• Juxtapose Arts Collective presents Believe at MATCH | Friday to Sunday – This is the story of a young girl named Lynn, one of the Chosen Children. She and her fellow chosen ones board a magical train with a mysterious conductor that will take them to the North Pole. Along the way, they’ll encounter obstacles outward and inward, and learn valuable lessons about the most important things in life. $20. Showtimes vary.
• Otaku Winter Arc Food & Anime Festival at Karbach Brewing Co. | Saturday & Sunday | FREE – For two days before the holidays, you can take in more than 100 food, anime and retail vendors staking out the Spring Branch brewery for the winter edition of this family-friendly fest. Check out a sumo tournament, compete in cosplay contests, and enjoy all-day entertainment while munching on street foods of Japan, Thailand, Vietnam and beyond. Saturday noon to 10pm; Sunday noon to 8pm.
• Reverend Horton Heat in Concert at the Continental Club | Saturday & Sunday – Catch the Texas-based psychobilly trio on back-to-back nights for a concert in Midtown. $30 and up. Times vary.

Ongoing Live Theater & Performing Arts in Houston

• A Charlie Brown Christmas at Queensbury Theatre | Friday to Sunday | Opening Weekend – Main stage performances are back at the West Houston theater, so check out this live version of the beloved Peanuts story. It’s Christmas time, but Charlie Brown isn’t feeling the spirit. Can Snoopy, Lucy, Linus, Sally, Pig Pen and the rest of the gang help him discover the true meaning of the holiday? This production runs through Saturday, December 23. $30 and up. Showtimes vary.
• Peter Pan at the Rec Room | Thursday to Saturday | Ongoing – It’s Christmas in 1980s London and the Darling children are about to discover some magical things they’ve never known. This update on the classic story explores imaginative play before the internet, the power of storytelling and imagination, and how lost boys, crocodiles, pirates, parents and siblings are all part of the patchwork of life and love. This production runs through Saturday, December 30. $40 ($5 on Wednesday, December 13). 7:30pm.
• TUTS presents Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella at Hobby Center | Daily | Ongoing – The beloved story of a kind young woman, her fairy godmother and believing in the impossible comes to life on stage in this family-friendly production that borrows from the 1990s TV production of the musical, starring Brandy and Whitney Houston. This production runs through Sunday, December 24. $40 and up. Showtimes vary.
• A.D. Players presents A Texas Carol at the George Theater | Daily | Ongoing – This holiday take is back by popular demand. It’s the story of the Dinkel family, gathering at Mee-Maw Jane’s East Texas ranch for what could be her very last Christmas. But when the first family guests arrive, they find she’s already gone. Can they keep her death a secret from everyone else and keep up the holiday spirit? This production runs through Saturday, December 23. $25 and up. Showtimes vary.
• 4th Wall Theatre Company presents Sense & Sensibility at Spring Street Studios | Daily | Ongoing – This new adaptation of the Jane Austen classic has been praised as “an enchanting romp of a play” by the New York Times. An examination of gossip, reputation and a woman’s place in the world, its sparkling comedy underlies serious themes. This production runs through Saturday, December 23. $28 and up. Showtimes vary.

• A Motown Christmas at Ensemble Theatre | Daily | Ongoing – This family-friendly holiday revue blends traditional carols with that distinctive Motown sound, with hits made famous by the Jackson Five, Marvin Gaye and more. This production runs through Christmas Eve, Sunday, December 24. $34 and up. Showtimes vary.
• TUTS presents The Ugly X-mas Sweater Musical at Hobby Center | Daily | Ongoing – This all-new, original musical, written by TUTS artistic director Dan Knechtges and Megan Larche Dominick explores the antics at a company that’s been bought out by an international conglomerate. In this mash-up between The Office and Project Runway, the employees must devise the ugliest Christmas sweater ever to save their jobs. This production runs through Christmas Eve, Sunday, December 24. $40 and up. Showtimes vary.
• A Christmas Carol at Alley Theatre | Daily | Ongoing – The beloved Charles Dickens holiday classic returns to the stage, telling the story of the miserly Scrooge and, with a series of visits from the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future, how he learns the true meaning of the holiday season. This production runs through Saturday, December 30. $29 and up. Showtimes vary.
• Stages presents Always…Patsy Cline at the Gordy | Daily | Ongoing – Celebrating its 35th anniversary, this musical biography features 27 of the iconic country singer’s hits, while showcasing her rise to stardom in the 1960s. It’s also the story of the friendship between Cline and Houston native Louise Seger, who met the singer in a Bayou City honky tonk. $48 and up. Showtimes vary.
• Houston Ballet presents The Nutcracker at Wortham Center | Daily | Ongoing – This dazzling production of the beloved ballet recounts the story of Clara, gifted a magical nutcracker one Christmas Eve, and the adventures she encounters in the Land of Sweets. See why Tchaikovsky’s score has captivated audiences around the world for more than a century. This production runs through Wednesday, December 27. $30 and up. Showtimes vary.
• Stages presents Panto Alicia in Wonderland at the Gordy | Daily | Ongoing – The panto Christmas performance tradition continues, as Stages collaborates with TEATRX for this take on the classic Alice in Wonderland story. Alicia is about to make her quinceañera, but she’s feeling torn between the traditions of her family and the life she wants for herself. Then, she falls down the rabbit hole and discovers all that makes her unique. This production runs through Sunday, December 31. $30 and up. Showtimes vary.

• Music Box Theater presents A Beatles Holiday Cabaret at Queensbury Theatre | Friday to Sunday | Ongoing – Hear holiday favorites and traditional carols, coupled with your favorite Beatles tunes in original arrangements. This concert has become an annual fan favorite. This production runs through Saturday, December 23. $38 and up. Showtimes vary.
• Main Street Theater presents Disney’s Beauty & the Beast at MATCH | Saturday | Ongoing – The dazzling fairy tale comes to life on stage, telling the story of the bookish Belle, who yearns for something more than her provincial life. When her father is captured by a ferocious beast, Belle trades her freedom for his, and finds herself in an enchanted castle. Can she ever find her way back home, and discover how to make her dreams come true? $22 and up. Noon and 3:30pm.
• Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some) at MATCH | Daily | Final Weekend – This mash-up of familiar holiday tales showcases stories you know and love, sprinkled with seasonal favorites from around the world. From carols to icons, traditions to festivities, it’s a madcap holiday romp. This production runs through Sunday, December 17. Pay-what-you-can. Showtimes vary.
• Vincent Victoria Presents: Eight Notes to Heaven at Midtown Art Center | Daily | Final Weekend – This new play from Vincent Victoria is a fictional account of the real rivalry between iconic singers Prince and Rick James. Set in 2016, the play with music is inspired by Jean-Paul Sartre’s classic play, No Exit. This production runs through Sunday, December 17. $19.99 and up. Showtimes vary.
• Georgiana & Kitty: Christmas at Pemberley at Main Street Theater | Daily | Final Weekend – The final chapter in the beloved Christmas at Pemberley series explores the friendship between Mr. Darcy’s younger sister Georgiana and the youngest Bennet sister Kitty. As the family gatherers at Pemberley for Christmas, the two young women eagerly await the arrival of Georgiana’s secret correspondent, Henry Grey. When he arrives to a chilly welcome from Mr. Darcy, Georgiana fears her chance for love is lost. This production runs through Sunday, December 17. $39 and up. Saturday 7:30pm; Sunday 3pm.
• Ken Ludwig’s The Game’s Afoot at Unity Theatre | Daily | Final Weekend – This comedy tells the story of the fictional Broadway star William Gillette, renowned for playing the iconic detective Sherlock Holmes. In December 1936, he invites his fellow cast members to a castle in Connecticut for a weekend of holiday revelry. Then one of them winds up dead. Who done it? This production runs through Sunday, December 17. $30. Showtimes vary.

Local Boutiques, Shady Acres & Other Destinations

• Shop Local at Houston Boutiques & Stores – Hit up these 12 of Houston’s beloved shops for unique, uncommon and meaningful goods for the gift-giving holiday season.
• Best Happy Hours in Shady Acres – This area east of White Oak Bayou is brimming with breezy patios, creekside seating and tasty happy hour specials that can’t be missed.
• Things to Do near Galleria & Uptown – Whether you’re hunting holiday deals, diving into the area’s luxe meals, or treating yourself with sweets and a spa day, there’s plenty of things to get on your radar for the Galleria and Uptown area in our 5 Must Do series.
• Best Neighborhoods & Holiday Lights Attractions in Greater Houston – Dive into our guide to best lit-up neighborhoods and twinkling Christmas light attractions across the Houston area.
• Top 25 Things to Do for Christmas – We’ve whittled down all of Houston’s holiday happenings into 25 of the best things to do this holiday season.
• Holiday Markets in Houston – Cross off everyone on your gift list by stopping by one of dozens of markets popping up around town for the holidays.
• Top Holiday Performing Arts in Houston – Discover some of the best holiday shows rolling this season from the city’s many performing arts groups.
• Best Bars in Garden Oaks/Oak Forest – The Heights area enclave just north of 610 has plenty to offer in the way of delicious brews, craft cocktails—and even sand volleyball.

• Dr. Temple Grandin at the Brookwood Community Center – The internationally renowned scholar, author and advocate for animal welfare will discuss her latest book, Visual Thinking: The Hidden Gifts of People Who Think in Pictures. Guests may select an option with breakfast or lunch, followed by the discussion and book signing. This event will be held in Brookshire. $75. 9am to 12:15pm, or 11am to 2pm.
• Pampering & Presents at San Luis Resort | FREE – The resort hotel along Galveston’s seawall hosts this free shopping event with complimentary gift wrapping on each item purchased. Anyone picking up a spa and retail VIP membership will also get a complimentary massage. 4pm to 6pm.
• Chanukah Concert for Kids at Children’s Museum Houston | FREE – Cap off this year’s Chanukah with a special concert from children’s musician Carla Friend, along with crafts and interactive exhibits all night. 5pm to 8pm.
• Jingle & Mingle on the Lawn at Memorial City | FREE – Get in the spirit with holiday music, appearances by the Memorial City Reindeer, a holiday sweater contest with tickets to see Cirque Du Soleil’s Corteo, a kids holiday ornament craft station, tasty Burger Joint food for sale, and more. 5:30pm to 8pm.
• Santa Sightings at Five Points Park | FREE – Head to La Porte and be sure to bring your Christmas list. Families can meet Santa, pose for photos and let him know if you’ve been naughty or nice. 6pm to 8pm.
• Holiday Charcuterie Class at Urban South HTX – Get inspired and helpful tips on how to arrange meats, cheeses, fruits and spreads for all your holiday parties. Whether you’re hosting or bringing something along, this hands-on class gives you an inside edge. $50. 6:30pm.
• Champagne & Ribs at Houston Museum of African American Culture – HMAAC presents the annual fundraiser where guests are invited to enjoy an evening of elegance, music, delicious BBQ, and champagne. You’ll also have the chance to bid on artwork. $65 and up. 7pm.

Dr. Temple Grandin
Brookwood Cafe
^Thursday

The internationally renowned scholar, author and advocate for animal welfare will discuss her latest book, Visual Thinking: The Hidden Gifts of People Who Think in Pictures. Guests may select an option with breakfast or lunch, followed by the discussion and book signing.

$75 | 9am to 2pm

Learn More

• Comedy Night at Ingenious Brewing Company | No Cover – Kris Carriere is your host, ushering to the stage a variety of local comics. Bring your friends, grab a brew and enjoy an evening of laughs at the Humble brewery. 7pm.
• HCC presents Fashion Fusion Runway Show at Museum of Fine Arts Houston – See the fashion designers of tomorrow show off their skills in this competition hosted by Houston Community College and the MFAH. All the contestants are students in HCC’s fashion design program and their original creations are inspired by works in the museum. $25. 7pm.
• Martini Theatre presents Batman Returns at Daiquiri Time Out | FREE – Head to Galveston for this 21+ screening of the 1992 movie starring Michael Keaton in the title role. Enjoy the Christmas-themed Miracle pop-up including a special cocktail menu, plus win free drinks at movie trivia hosted by Ben Junior. 7pm.
• Derek Hough: Symphony of Dance at Smart Financial Centre – From the Emmy Award–winning mind of Derek Hough with Hayley Erbert comes this night of electrifying dance in a theatrical stage production in Sugar Land. $45 and up. 8pm.
• Monarch Chamber Players presents Candlelit Christmas Concert at Post Houston | FREE – Join Monarch for a spirited perforamnce in the Z atrium of Post Houston, surrounded by candlelight. Standing room is free and open to the public (RSVP requested); reserved seating is limited to 250 spots for $15 each. 8pm.
• Loreta Kovacic’s Sing a Long Christmas Show at the Continental Club – The local singer-songwriter and pianist brings the sounds of the season to Midtown for a sing-along with prizes. $10 and up. 9pm.
• Nutcracker Burlesque at Rise Rooftop – Join The Aphrodisi-Acts for a tantalizing evening of seductive entertainment at Nutcracker Burlesque: The Land of Sweets and Tease. This grown-up Nutcracker is a version unlike any other. $30 and up. 9pm.

• More Great Things to Do All Weekend Long – Some of the biggest things to do in Houston are happening all weekend long. Scroll up to explore events and shows spanning multiple days, or browse Houston Experiences to save on museum and brewery passes, tours, and more.