They say everything is bigger in Texas and the holidays are no exception. From Austin to Houston and everywhere in between, Texas lights up for the holiday season. We’ve compiled a list of the biggest and best Texas-sized holiday happenings from the Live Music Capital of the World to the shores of the Gulf of Mexico.

Houston-Area Events:

Houston Ballet Nutcracker Market:

Shop ‘til you drop at the Houston Ballet Nutcracker Market taking place on November 14-17 at NRG Stadium. The event will host over 260 merchants, showcasing a variety of items such as home decor, clothing and jewelry, gourmet food, and holiday items. The fan-favorites will be in attendance as well as 20 new vendors!   https://www.houstonballet.org/about/nutcracker-market/

Houston Thanksgiving Day Parade:

Join the city of Houston downtown on Thanksgiving morning (November 28th) for the 70th Annual H-E-B Thanksgiving Day Parade. The parade will feature eight marching bands, eight performing arts groups, twelve high-flying balloons, and thirteen floats featuring Tom the Turkey and Santa! Plus, The Voice contestant, Simone Gundy will illuminate the parade with a performance from “The Greatest Showman.” https://www.houstontx.gov/thanksgivingparade/

Magical Winter Lights:

Become a kid again at Magical Winter Lights at the Gulf Greyhound Park in La Marque. Taking place from November 15 - January 5th, this is a 20-acre lantern festival that is the largest of its kind in the United States. There are themed lantern sections with over 100 individual lantern sets, nightly acrobatic performances, carnival rides and games, as well as an interactive dinosaur area. This is one you definitely won’t want to miss! https://magicalwinterlights.com/

Dickens on the Strand:

Venture down to Galveston for the 46th annual Dickens on the Strand celebration. This beloved holiday street-festival is based on 19th-century Victorian London and features live music on four stages, parades, a play area, and a Shopkeeper Skills Village. Vendors are dressed in costume, selling Victoria-inspired gifts, clothing, jewelry, and more! It is encouraged for attendees to dress the part. So don’t forget your hoop skirt and top hat! This event takes place December 7-8th.  https://www.galveston.com/calendarofevents/?trumbaEmbed=eventid%3D131808855%26view%3Devent

Holiday on 19th Street:

Head on over to The Heights to start your Christmas shopping on December 6th. Holiday on 19th Street will feature roaming carollers, in-store events, live music and entertainment, and even real snow! Shop local and support Houston. This is a shopping experience like no other! https://www.visithoustontexas.com/event/holiday-on-19th-street/74131/