Top 12 Things to Do for Kids in Houston This Week: December 20 to 26, 2021 – 365 Things to Do in Houston
Discovery Green hosts a screening of the 2003 classic, “Elf” | Courtesy of Warner Bros.
Enjoy the holiday break and show the kiddos a fantastic time around Houston with the best kid-friendly things to do in and around Houston from Monday, December 20 to Sunday, December 26, 2021.
This week, kids can check out a film festival made just for them, see a holiday show, visit with Santa across town, celebrate Boxing Day, and more.
Do you know an event that could make the list? Drop us a line at [email protected] with a link to the official event details.
Top 12 Things To Do for Kids & Families in Houston This Week
- Children’s Film Festival at Asia Society Texas | Monday, December 20 to Wednesday, December 22 – Ease into the winter break in the Museum District with a magical film festival that celebrates anime from Japan, kids in the United States, and adventures that span the Asian continent. Screenings are free on Monday; $10 on Tuesday and Wednesday. Films begin at 10am and 1pm daily.
- Toy Giveaway at Showtime Bar and Lounge | Monday, December 20 | FREE – Showtime Bar and Lounge hosts a Toy Giveaway for families in need for Christmas. Donations of toys are welcome. First-come, first-serve. One toy per child. 3pm to 7pm.
- 3rd Annual Hometown Holidays & Trail of Lights at Silver Sycamore | Monday, December 20 to Thursday, December 23 – Silver Sycamore—known for its beautiful, old west grounds—presents the third edition of Hometown Holidays & Trail of Lights celebration in Pasadena. The final days of this eight-day lights festival will feature a magical walking trail of lights, Santa Claus, live performances, shopping, and more. $14; $10 for ages 12 and under. 6pm to 9pm.
- Boogie Bash: Holiday Hop at the Woodlands Children’s Museum | Tuesday, December 21 – Celebrate the season with fun musical activities including the Reindeer Pokey, Jingle Bells, and more at the Woodlands Children’s Museum. Included with general admission; $7 for ages 1 and up. 11am.
- TUTS presents Disney’s The Little Mermaid at Hobby Center for the Performing Arts | Tuesday, December 21 to Thursday, December 23 – The beloved animated movie comes to life, following the adventures of Ariel the mermaid, who trades her voice to a sea witch in hopes of finding true love. All the songs you love, including “Under the Sea” and “Part of Your World” are here, along with some new, soon-to-be favorites. Tickets start at $40. Times vary.
- Who’ville Paint Party at Primary Paint Party | Thursday, December 23 – Primary Paint Party & Prime Art Gallery in West Houston presents a Who’ville-themed paint party featuring the Grinch. Ticket includes pictures with the Grinch, a 4×6 printed photo, and all digital files. Tickets are required for both parents and kids. $8. Noon to 4pm.
- Elf Movie Screening at Discovery Green | Thursday, December 23 | FREE – Have a laugh when the Downtown park hosts an outdoor screening of the 2003 holiday movie, Elf. Buddy the Elf just found out he’s not really an elf and heads to New York City to find his biological father. 7pm to 9pm.
- Breakfast with Santa at Downtown Aquarium | Christmas Eve, Friday, December 24 – Dine with Santa and the restaurant’s mascot, Sharkey, and enjoy a breakfast buffet, exhibit discounts, and more at Downtown Aquarium. Reservations are required. 8:30am.
- Sleigh All Day at Children’s Museum of Houston | Christmas Eve, Friday, December 24 – Bring the kiddos over to meet and snap a photo with Santa Claus at Children’s Museum Houston. Included with general admission; $12 for ages 1 and up. 11am to 1:30pm.
- Boxing Day at Rienzi | Sunday, December 26 – Visit the European decorative arts museum, the Rienzi, for the annual Boxing Day celebration. Enjoy some shopping, seasonal music, an art-making activity for all ages, and self-guided tours. $12 for adults; $8 for ages 13 to 18; free for ages 12 and younger. 1pm to 5pm.
- A.D. Players presents The Christmas Shoes at the George Theater | Ends Sunday, December 26 – This world premiere adapts the best-selling book (which led to the popular song) of the same name and follows a workaholic attorney named Robert who crosses paths with a little boy on Christmas Eve. The boy teaches Robert about family and love, and reminds us of our shared humanity. Tickets start at $25. Dates and times vary.
- Christmas Lights in Neighborhoods & Ticketed Events Around Houston | Ongoing – Pile in the car for a leisurely holiday drive or take a hot cocoa-fueled stroll while you ooh and ah at Houston’s most popular Christmas light displays—in residential neighborhoods and at city landmarks alike.
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Shea Kummer is a mom to 3 active boys living in Katy. She has a business degree from Texas Christian University and a background in social media management. When she’s not cheering on her boys, she can be found looking for the best ways to make lasting family memories.
