This article is a part of the 2023 Winter Travel Guide, a sponsored collection brought to you by our travel advertising partners. You can find more winter travel destinations and events here.

Elevate your holiday spirit with a festive escape to The Woodlands! Already a favorite vacation spot among Texans, The Woodlands boasts enchanting tree-lined walkways and a vibrant town center that undergoes a magical transformation during the holiday season. Imagine capping off your year with a romantic dinner and a stroll under Christmas lights, actually enjoying your holiday shopping experience, or making your kids’ Christmas movie dreams come to life. It’s all more than possible in The Woodlands.

Make the Season Merry and Bright

From the moment you set foot in The Woodlands, you’ll be welcomed by the radiant glow of holiday lights that adorn the picturesque streets and Waterway, creating an atmosphere brimming with holiday cheer. One cherished tradition you can’t miss is the annual “Lighting of the Doves, held annually in November. This heartwarming event marks the official start of the holiday season in The Woodlands, complete with family-friendly activities, delicious food and drinks, and a fantastic opportunity to snap a photo with a real-life reindeer. Top it off with a breathtaking fireworks display and a special visit from the one and only Santa Claus, and it’s an evening of pure holiday magic that’s not to be missed.

But perhaps the most exciting highlight of the holiday season is the ice rink. Nestled in the heart of the Town Center and adorned with a dazzling display of Christmas lights, this indoor ice rink offers a fun surprise addition to a family vacation or a delightful way to conclude a romantic evening out. Families, in particular, will be enchanted by the “Holly Jolly Jingle” event at The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, featuring talented local student musicians.

Make Your List

This year, take the chore of holiday shopping for presents and make it the highlight of the season. The Woodlands is famous for its world-class shopping options, from its renowned brands to local shops curating stunning pieces. Explore The Woodlands Mall and Market Street, where an array of shops await to help you find the perfect presents for your loved ones, and see what it’s like to actually enjoy your holiday shopping. The Market Street experience goes beyond shopping in November and December, when with a flip of a switch, a 70-foot-tall Christmas tree illuminates the ever-popular outdoor shopping and dining area. The magic continues every hour on the half-hour with a synchronized light and music display beginning at 5:30 p.m. and going to 9:30 p.m. Nearby, a 40-foot Christmas tree at The Woodlands Mall features an LED light show every hour on the hour from 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. nightly. 

Elevate Your Holidays

Whether you’re reveling in the enchanting lights, seeking out one-of-a-kind gifts, or aiming to create lasting family memories with festive events, The Woodlands promises an enchanting holiday getaway. Gather your loved ones and start a cherished holiday tradition in The Woodlands. Don’t wait—plan your visit to The Woodlands now and discover the holiday wonder of this Texas gem.


Visit VisitTheWoodlands.com for more information.