Cheap Flights to Houston

Houston is the most populous city in the state of Texas and the fourth-most populous city in the United States. With a census-estimated 2014 population of 2.239 million within an area of 667 square miles, it is also the largest city in the southern United States. Houston was founded on August 28, 1836, near the banks of Buffalo Bayou (now known as Allen's Landing and incorporated as a city on June 5, 1837. The city was named after former General Sam Houston, who was president of the Republic of Texas and had commanded and won at the Battle of San Jacinto 25 miles (40 km) east of where the city was established. The burgeoning port and railroad industry, combined with oil discovery in 1901, has induced continual surges in the city's population. In the mid-20th century, Houston became the home of the Texas Medical Center?the world's largest concentration of healthcare and research institutions?and NASA's Johnson Space Center, where the Mission Control Center is located. Houston is a global city, with strengths in business, international trade, entertainment, culture, media, fashion, science, sports, technology, education, medicine, and research. The city has a population from various ethnic and religious backgrounds and a large and growing international community. Houston is the most diverse city in Texas and has been described as the most racially and ethnically diverse major metropolis in the U.S. It is home to many cultural institutions and exhibits, which attract more than 7 million visitors a year to the Museum District. Houston has an active visual and performing arts scene in the Theater District and offers year-round resident companies in all major performing arts. If you are looking for unique and fun experiences, there is no shortage of things to do in Houston. This is the fourth largest city in the United States and home to the famous Space Center Houston, renowned chefs, inspiring museums, and famous artists that you've probably never heard of before. And although this is a big city, there are all kinds of lush green spaces for outdoor activities and a bayou running through the heart of the city center. Depending on your travel dates, you may even be able to take in a sports game or experience Houston's signature event, the Livestock Show and Rodeo. Places to visit in Houston 1 Take a Tour at Space Center Houston Space Center Houston Space Center Houston, the official visitor center of NASA's Johnson Space Center, is a must-see attraction in Houston. This is a huge complex, where you can walk through the space shuttle replica Independence and the enormous shuttle carrier aircraft it's mounted on. In the visitor center, you can wander inside a replica of America's first space station, Skylab, and touch a rock from the moon. This is also the place to learn about NASA's upcoming missions, which is currently focused on travel to Mars. If you are here on a Friday, you can even meet an astronaut when they do presentations at 11:00am and 1:00pm. From the visitor center, you can take an open-air tram tour to Johnson Space Center, home of mission control, to see where astronauts train for space missions. This tour also takes you to Rocket Park to see actual rockets on display. Tickets are free but limited, and you can get a timed ticket to avoid waiting in lines. If you want to experience something truly unique, sign up for a Level 9 Tour and enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at Johnson Space Center. You can see the Buoyancy Lab, the ISS Mission Control, and simulation labs, along with other areas off limits on regular tours, and possibly even encounter an astronaut. This is a one-of-a-kind experience, and only 12 tickets are sold per day for this exclusive, four- to five-hour VIP tour. Tours begin at the Space Center Houston, which you are free to explore with the purchase of this ticket. A convenient way to visit the Houston Space Center during your trip to Houston is on NASA's Space Center Houston and City Sightseeing Tour, which includes free admission to the space center as well as a bonus 1.5-hour open-air bus tour of the city's top sights. Museum of Fine Arts, Houston The Museum District is one of Houston's greatest cultural attractions, with 19 museums residing in this beautiful area. Eleven of these are free to the public. Some of the highlights include the Museum of Fine Arts, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Children's Museum, the Menil Collection, the Holocaust Museum, and the Contemporary Arts Museum, to name just a few. Also in this area is the lovely Hermann Park, with the Houston Zoo and the Miller Outdoor Theatre. Most of the museums are within easy walking distance of each other, although the Menil and the Rothko Chapel are a little farther out. Museums that are free of charge include: The Menil Collection, Rothko Chapel, Contemporary Arts Museum, Houston Center for Contemporary Craft, Lawndale Art Center, Houston Museum of American Culture, Rice Gallery, Houston Center for photography, and the Czech Center Museum Houston. 3 Visit the Houston Zoo Visit the Houston Zoo Set on 55 acres in Hermann Park, the Houston Zoo is one of the city's star attractions, popular with locals and visitors. The zoo is home to more than 6,000 exotic and indigenous animals and contains an education center and children's zoo. Some of the highlights include feeding the giraffes, seeing marine life up close in the aquarium, and watching sea lions and otters frolicking about. Other attractions in Hermann Park are the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Miller Outdoor Theatre, a Japanese Garden, and the Pioneer Memorial Log House Museum. Also fun is a paddle boat trip on McGovern Lake, or a stroll along the park's walking trails. 4 Experience the Tastes of Houston on a Culinary Tour Houston Cuisine on a Culinary Tour Houston's cuisine is one of the city's true highlights, with possibilities that range from traditional southern dishes to Latin American, Asian, Mexican, and countless other cultural specialties. Chefs in Houston have put the city on the culinary map of America, and dining in this city is a treat. One way to taste some of the best that Houston has to offer is on a culinary tour. Both walking food tours and chef-led culinary tours are available, although they do not run daily, and it's advisable to book in advance. Some of these are for adults only and others are open to kids. Walking tours focus on specific areas of the city, like downtown, Montrose, or The Heights, and last about 3.5 hours. Chef-led tours are hosted by some of the city's most well-known and charismatic chefs and are only available once or twice a month. These are always unique tours, with changing themes, a variety of restaurants, and different chefs leading the tour. In some cases, you may not even know where the tour is taking you before you show up. If there are no tours running during your visit to Houston, make an effort to try some restaurants on your own. There is no shortage of great places to choose from, and you don't need to visit a high-end, expensive restaurant to find amazing food and great ambience. Underbelly (Chef Chris Shepherd), serving locally sourced foods and offering a changing menu depending on what is on hand in the kitchen, is a unique, casual dining experience with a homey feel. For a bite of South American cuisine try Am?ricas (Chefs Michael and David Cord?a), with awesome Latin American food and an elegant and surreal d?cor, almost reminiscent of a Salvador Dali painting. Looking for some southern cuisine? Southern Goods (Chef Lyle Bento) is one of the favorites. For a white tablecloth experience featuring some unique southern food, Brenner's has been a Houston institution for decades. For other recommendations, ask the chefs at any of these restaurants, and they will likely direct you to their local favorites. Houston's culinary scene is incredibly amicable, with many chefs more than happy to tell you where they go to find tasty meals, from sandwich shops and hole-in-the-wall diners to fine dining. 5 Walk, Bike, or Paddle through Buffalo Bayou Park Buffalo Bayou Park One of Houston's natural gems, Buffalo Bayou Park is a beautiful 160-acre green space running through the city, with the slow moving waters of Buffalo Bayou as its centerpiece. This urban park is home to walking and biking trails, a dog park, sculptures, and plenty of shady areas to relax. If you want to get active and enjoy some of the great outdoors from the water, rent a kayak, canoe, or stand up paddleboard and enjoy a paddle along the bayou. Rentals are available at the park, and various tours are offered, ranging from one to three hours in length. The park is also home to a huge colony of Mexican free-tailed bats that inhabit the Waugh Drive Bridge. Approximately 250,000 of them fly out from the bridge each evening at sunset. 6 Explore Houston's Street Art Houston Street Art While it is often overlooked by tourists, Houston's street art, or what many people know as graffiti, is outstanding, with installations by some of the top names in street art throughout the US and around the world, including COPE2 and Houston's own Gonzo247. These colorful murals adorn the walls of establishments in various locations throughout the city and are well worth taking the time to drive around and see. The unofficial curator of Houston's street art is the charismatic artist known as Gonzo247. He is one of the city's most famous street artists and the creator of the giant "Houston is Inspired" mural at the corner of Travis and Preston Streets and the smaller "Houston" mural at Leeland and St. Emanuel Streets. This latter area is also home to a large concentration of impressive installations that grace the walls of numerous one- and two-story buildings off Leeland Street at Chartres Street and St. Emanuel Street. But works can be found scattered all over the city on walls of various sizes. To find a map of mural locations check out the Hue Houston Mural Festival website. 7 Shop the Vintage Stores on 19th Street in The Heights Stores on 19th Street For vintage clothing, retro d?cor, and old collectibles, 19th Street in The Heights is the place to go. This funky area has all kinds of quirky shops selling everything from evening gowns to casual clothing, as well as jewelry, footwear, household gadgets, and all kinds of unique items. This is also a good place to shop for gifts. The merchandise is not all vintage; some places sell new pieces or a mix of new and old. Even if you are not looking to buy anything, the whole area is worth seeing and offers a one-of-a-kind shopping experience. 8 Attend the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Attend the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Houston's biggest annual event, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, is a fun-filled, 19-day event that brings the whole city out to celebrate in February or March. If you are going to be here during this time, you are in luck, and if you are wondering when to visit Houston, this might be the time to plan your trip. This is an activity the whole family can enjoy, and it's so much more than just a rodeo and livestock show. If this is your first time to an event of this kind, you will be pleasantly surprised by the diversity of things to do. On the grounds are carnival rides, games, and food stands, and enough entertainment to keep you busy indefinitely. At the rodeo events, which you will need tickets to attend, see the cowboys showing off their skills in a variety of areas. In the evening, some of the biggest names in music perform on stage. Check out the concert listing in advance and secure tickets. If you only have one day to attend this fantastic show, spend a morning or afternoon wandering the grounds and enjoying the carnival, see some of the finest farm animals on display at the Livestock Show, then take in a rodeo event or two to see the cowboys in action, and spend the evening at a concert. Another not-to-be-missed event is the Downtown Rodeo Parade. 9 See a Sports Game Minute Maid Park When it comes to seeing a game in Houston, sports fans have plenty of options, and whether it's football, baseball, or basketball, the city takes its sports seriously. Houston is home to the Houston Texans (NFL), the Houston Astros (MLB), and the Houston Rockets (NBA). The Texans play at the NRG Stadium, formerly Reliant Stadium, which is also the venue for the 2017 Super Bowl. The Toyota Stadium in downtown Houston is home to the Rockets, and the Astros play at Minute Maid Park, also in the city center. Check to see if there is a home game during your stay. 10 Walk through Rice University Campus Rice University Campus The Rice University Campus is an oasis in downtown Houston and a favorite outdoor space for many Houstonians. Walking and running trails, thousands of mature trees, and lovely old buildings are spread over this 300-acre campus. Also on the grounds are a large number of impressive contemporary artworks that lend to the tranquil atmosphere. Many of these installations are equally, or even more, impressive in the evening when they are lit. The Rice Gallery is a must-see sight on campus, with huge temporary art installations that almost engulf visitors as they explore the space. Stop in at the Welcome Center at Lovett Hall for more information on the latest things to see at Rice University. 11 Experience the Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park Waterwall Park The Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park showcases an impressive multi-story sculptural fountain that sees sheets of water cascading over large concrete walls and sculptures. The structure's semi-circular shape towers 64 feet above you and is fronted by a large arch and 46,500 square feet of water. It's an attraction that needs to be seen to truly be appreciated. This 2.77-acre park, covered with dozens of live oaks, is located in Uptown Houston. Festivals/ events holding in Houston Martin Luther King Jr. Grande Parade This annual parade celebrating the civil rights leader marches through the heart of Houston and draws more than 300,000 supporters from around the nation. Chevron Houston Marathon This annual 26.2, 13.1 and 3.1-mile run, which begins and ends at Downtown?s George R. Brown Convention Center, has steadily grown to attract more than 20,000 entrants from around the world and 200,000 spectators. Texas Lunar New Year Houston Celebrate the impressive qualities of every culture while celebrating the Asian Lunar New Year at the annual Texas Lunar Festival. In the Chinese lunar calendar a different animal or mythological beast represents every year in a twelve year cycle. The year of 2017 is the year of the Rooster. Come enjoy dance, theatrics, and music in this cultural celebration! Mardi Gras Galveston Mardi Gras was publicly observed on Galveston Island as early as 1867 but was discontinued during World War II. The Island's celebration was resurrected in 1985 and since then has become one of the most popular events along the Texas Gulf Coast. World's Championship Bar-B-Que Contest The World?s Championship Bar-B-Que Contest is three days of cooking, competition, eating and dancing. The sweet aroma drifts over the Houston metropolis, drawing crowds like bees to honey. Trophies are awarded to teams preparing the best dish in each category (brisket, chicken, pork and spare ribs) as well as an overall winner. Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Rodeo time has been a tradition in Houston since 1932, and the three-week extravaganza at NRG Park continues to consume the city every spring. The kickoff for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo? is the Rodeo Parade, after trail riders ride into town and set up camp in Memorial Park. All 20 championship rodeo competitions are concluded with entertainment by music superstars. Azalea Trail One of the surest signs of spring in Houston is the annual Azalea Trail. Houstonians and visitors view the spectacular gardens at Bayou Bend and Rienzi and visit River Oaks' exquisite private homes and admire their breathtaking gardens. Buffalo Bayou Regatta The Buffalo Bayou Regatta is the largest canoe and kayak race in Texas. Over 200 vessels are expected to hit the waters in downtown Houston. Tour de Houston Now in its 11th year, the annual bike ride offers Houstonians and visitors a unique way to view the city with routes winding through Houston's historic neighborhoods, scenic districts and parks while raising funds for the city's Reforest Houston program. Bayou City Art Festival Memorial Park The Bayou City Art Festival at Memorial Park kicks off spring as Houston?s premier outdoor fine arts event. More than 300 national artists working in 19 artistic media are juried and invited to show and sell their original art at this event. Shell Houston Open Played at Redstone Golf Club's Tournament Course, 156 of the world's best golfers compete in the Shell Houston Open in pursuit of the $5 million-plus purse. The Houston Golf Association has been conducting PGA Tour events since 1946, making Houston's tournament the 10th oldest. Houston Children's Festival Houston's official family celebration is held annually in downtown Houston. Benefiting Child Advocates, Inc., the event offers a dazzling smorgasbord of exciting activities, including six entertainment stages, more than 350 games and 10 family adventure areas. Southwest International Boat Show The largest in-water boat show in the Southwest, and the premier sail and power show for new and pre-owned vessels featuring boats ranging in size from 10ft. to more than 100ft, both freshwater and saltwater, ready for boarding and viewing, with pre-season specials and dealer incentive programs available on many models. Art Car Parade More than 250,000 spectators line downtown?s streets to view this parade, which showcases Houston?s most outlandish folk art creations on wheels. The Fruit Mobile, a 1967 Ford station wagon, started the craze in 1986. Truly a sight to see, the parade is produced by the Orange Show Center for Visionary Art. Houston Barbecue Festival The annual barbecue event brings barbecue joint favorites together and welcomes new additions to the Houston Barbecue scene for a full day of barbecue-focused fun. WorldFest: Houston International Film Festival WorldFest brings a blend of feature films, shorts, screenplays, TV commercials, music videos and documentaries to viewers throughout the area. Founded in 1968, past winners include Steven Spielberg, Oliver Stone, George Lucas and David Lynch-all early in their careers. Houston Dragon Boat Festival The Texas Dragon Boat Association, in collaboration with Buffalo Bayou Partnership, presents its 17th Annual Houston Dragon Boat Festival. The festival will showcase 30 teams competing along the banks of Buffalo Bayou at Allen's Landing, and will feature Asian cuisine, music, arts and crafts, and cultural performances for the whole family. Japan Festival This annual event in Hermann Park's beautiful Japanese Garden draws more than 20,000 people. The Japan Festival celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Japan with two stages showcasing music, traditional and folk dance and martial arts, as well as demonstrations of Ikebana flower arrangement, tea ceremony, origami and bonsai. Comicpalooza (May 12-14, 2017) Comicpalooza is Texas' largest pop culture convention. Comicpalooza continues to be the best multi-format pop culture con in the southwest including J-Fashion, cosplay, a film festival, literary conference, a code fest, maker space, Mars Rover rides, video and tabletop gaming, BMX stunt show, professional wrestling, roller derby bouts. Pasadena Strawberry Festival (May 19-21, 2017) A barbecue cook-off, a beauty pageant, arts and crafts, live entertainment, teen battle of the bands and the world's largest strawberry shortcake are all part of the Pasadena Strawberry Festival. JUNE Free Press Summer Fest (June 3-4, 2017) Houston?s biggest music festival is set to kick off this summer with some of the biggest names in music. The eighth annual Free Press Summer Fest (FPSF) will take over Eleanor Tinsley Park on the banks of the Buffalo Bayou. AIA Sandcastle Competition (June 3, 2017) American Institute of Architects Houston hosts its annual free Sandcastle Competition at East Beach in Galveston each June. For years, the competition has enticed some of the most talented architects and designers as well as drawn an average of 20,000 spectators. Caribbean Heritage Month Festival (June 3, 2017) The Caribbean Heritage Month Festival occurs the first Saturday of every June. Those in attendance enjoy the great Caribbean Heritage celebration, complete with fabulous native music, exuberant cultural dancing and delicious authentic foods. Come out and enjoy various groups representing many nations of the Caribbean, Latin and Spanish Caribbean nations as took part in the festival, some adorned in their native, bright, colorful, cultural heritage customs. Carnival Houston Show + Parade (June 10, 2017) Celebrating carnival from the caribbean, Brazil and New Orleans Mardi Gras. It is an exciting an explosion of music, cuisine, revelry, costume parade and performances. The Premier Annual Carnival Houston show will showcase carnival costumes and performances such as Samba, Merengue, and costume masquerades, Dance Performances, Calypso, Soca, Salsa, and Samba. Juneteenth Celebration (June 17-18, 2017) Juneteenth is a celebration of June 19, the day Texas learned of President Abraham Lincoln?s signing of the Emancipation Proclamation freeing all slaves. The event at Miller Outdoor Theatre in Hermann Park includes blues, gospel and jazz performers and a variety of smaller events aimed at raising awareness of African-American heritage. Pride Houston (June 18-25, 2017) The largest Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transsexual event in the Southwest takes place each year during the Houston Pride Parade where 1,000 participants entertain 150,000 spectators with an empowering blend of light, color and sound with beautiful floats, costumes and performances. JULY Freedom Over Texas Festival (July 4, 2017) Houston?s official July 4th celebration takes place in Eleanor Tinsley Park at Buffalo Bayou and features live entertainment, food booths and a world-famous fireworks display. Star Spangled Salute (July 4, 2017) The Houston Symphony continues its annual celebration at Hermann Park's Miller Outdoor Theatre. Festivities include fireworks accompanied by a dramatic 16-cannon salute. AUGUST Houston International Jazz Festival (August 4-6, 2017) Big names in jazz convene in downtown Houston for some of the hottest music of the summer. Houston Shakespeare Festival (TBD) A tribute to the famous playwright, the festival attracts more than 475,000 people to its free performances at Miller Outdoor Theatre throughout the month. Houston Restaurant Weeks (TBD) For thousands of Houstonians and visitors to the bayou city, Houston Restaurant Weeks provides a month-long passport to the city's top restaurants and award-winning chefs. Theater District Day (TBD) Enjoy backstage tours, ongoing live performances, set and costume displays and sneak previews of the upcoming seasons. The Theater District is home to eight performing arts organizations, which offer this free look behind the scenes each summer. SEPTEMBER AdvoCare Texas Kickoff (TBD) Kick off the 2016 College Football Season! Secure your seats today for the showdown between the Peach Bowl Champion Houston Cougars and Big 12 Champion Oklahoma Sooners on Saturday, September 3rd at NRG Stadium. Fiestas Patrias (TBD) One of the largest and most colorful community-sponsored parades in the Southwest celebrates Mexico's independence from Spain. Colorfully clad dancers from area ballet folklorico troupes spin down the streets performing to festive Mexican music. The celebration culminates with the crowning of Miss Fiestas Patrias. Oktoberfest Houston (TBD) Join us for Houston?s only Beer Fest with a German twist, showcasing the best of German and Texas Culture in one fantastic day! Put on your Lederhosen and Dirndls and enjoy a variety of German and craft beer and the best pol Houston Art Fair (TBD) All art fairs are presented by galleries from around the world exhibiting modern and contemporary art in a variety of media including painting, photography, sculpture, and mixed-media. OCTOBER Texas Renaissance Festival TBD Starting in October and continuing for eight themed weekends in Plantersville, the Texas Renaissance Festival recreates an English village of the 16th century. Magicians, jugglers, minstrels, troubadours and comedians perform on six stages. Original Greek Festival TBD Celebrate the 48th Annual Houston Greek Festival on the grounds of the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral. Authentic Greek food, wine, dancing and artifacts are fun for the entire family. Bayou City Art Festival Downtown TBD The fine juried art show in downtown?s Hermann Square and Tranquility Park spans several blocks filled with paintings, sculptures, jewelry, and music, plus great food, wine cafes, beer taverns and a kids zone. Festa Italiana TBD Houston?s Annual Italian Festival on the campus of St. Thomas University features authentic Italian food, wine, music, dancing, arts and crafts and entertainment for all ages. Annual Puerto Rican & Cuban Festival TBD With over 20,000 participants each year, the Puerto Rican and Cuban Festival is an iconic Houston event! This festival includes great local food, live music, vendors, and a car show. Wings Over Houston Airshow TBD This airshow takes off and lands at Houston?s Ellington Field. The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds and the Navy?s Blue Angels have wowed onlookers in past years with aerial acrobatics, while aircraft from current Air Force and Navy inventories is on display. Texian Market Days TBD At the George Ranch Historical Park, more than 200 costumed interpreters bring to life all that is Texas, complete with children?s activities, an antique tractor show, and a parade. Guests can indulge in a one-of-a-kind celebration of our great state?s history. Untapped Music & Beer Festival TBD Three years ago two friends that shared a passion for craft beer and live music founded the Untapped Festival is a craft beer & music festival series. Houston Egyptian Festival TBD Celebrate the beauty and enchantment of Egypt's music, dance, and cuisine at Discovery Green. D?a de los Muertos TBD Lawndale Art Center presents the 29th Annual D?a de los Muertos series of programs. Join the art center as they celebrate the art, music, and folklife of Mexico through an exhibition of artist-made retablos, student installations, workshops, and performances. NOVEMBER International Quilt Festival TBD More than 1,000 antique and contemporary quilts, original cloth dolls and wearable art are on display at the George R. Brown Convention Center. There are hundreds of booths to shop for quilts, supplies, and crafts, as well as classes from beginner to expert levels. Day of the Dead TBD Dia de los Muertos is a traditional holiday that honors and celebrates the lives of family and friends who have died. The event includes traditional celebrations and Dia de los Muertos arts and crafts. The National Museum of Funeral History hosts the festivities. Annual Turkish Festival TBD Celebrate the Annual Turkish Festival at Jones Plaza downtown. Sample authentic Turkish food, wine, coffee, dancing and fun for the entire family. The Nutcracker Market TBD Houston Ballet Guild?s Nutcracker Market has become an annual tradition to kick off the holiday season. This shopping extravaganza, held at Reliant Center, features holiday decorations, food, clothing, jewelry, and even furniture. Texas Championship Native American Pow Wow TBD More than 100 Native Americans from across the U.S. compete in two days of traditional singing and dancing. Indian food, a teepee village, demonstrations, story-telling and education exhibits are all a part of this event. More than 125 booths contain authentic Native American arts and crafts. Houston Salutes American Heroes Veterans Day Celebration TBD Mayor Sylvester Turner and the City of Houston show support for our Armed Forces and celebrate the annual "Houston Salutes American Heroes" Veterans Day Celebration and parade. Annual Interfaith Thanksgiving Service TBD Established nearly 20 years ago, this event at the Rothko Chapel is free and open to the general public with representatives from ten participating religions. Houston Via Colori? Street Painting Festival TBD Via Colori? has grown into one of the city?s signature art festivals over its 10-year history. Attendees witness the streets of downtown transform into a massive outdoor art gallery with more than 250 local and national artists creating mind-blowing murals right before your eyes. Ice at Discovery Green TBD Ice skating returns and its bigger than ever! Skate among the downtown skyline at Discovery Green's now 7,716-sq. ft. outdoor rink in the heart of Texas. Park-goers will enjoy a variety of family-friendly programming throughout the holidays, including concerts, movies and more. Uptown Holiday Lighting (Thanksgiving Evening) On Thanksgiving evening, thousands of Houstonians and out-of-town guests gather along Post Oak Boulevard for the annual Uptown Holiday Lighting. This fun-filled family event kicks off the holiday season with more than half a million twinkling lights, a sparkling electric light parade, an exciting holiday stage show and a special appearance by Santa Claus. An incredible explosion of fireworks lights up the Houston skies and music fills the air during the dramatic finale. City of Houston Thanksgiving Day Parade TBD The Thanksgiving Day parade remains a 67-year-old holiday tradition showcasing the Houston community and entertaining more than 200,000 parade-goers lining the streets on Thanksgiving morning. The parade is a stunning showcase of sensational floats, flying balloons, marching bands, artistic entries and live entertainment. A Christmas Carol -- A Ghost Story of Christmas TBD The Alley Theatre?s amusing and musical rendition of A Christmas Carol - A Ghost Story of Christmas revisits the meaning of Christmas with Ebenezer Scrooge and classic characters like Tiny Tim as Scrooge embarks on a wild nighttime journey through re-imagined scenic designs, spectacular costumes, and original music. The Nutcracker TBD Houston Ballet?s timeless and dreamy production of the classic holiday tale The Nutcracker joins Clara as she marvels at the Christmas tree, flying cooks, the Sugar Plum Fairy and Prince dancing, and her unforgettable journey in the Kingdom of Sweets ? a place children will dream about for years to come. Ice Land: Ice Sculptures, A Caribbean Christmas TBD Moody Gardens takes the holidays to a whole new level of cool! A skilled team of master ice carvers has charted your course for the ultimate Caribbean Christmas! Embark on a breathtaking undersea journey made of two million pounds of ice! Zoo Lights TBD TXU Energy Presents Zoo Lights at the Houston Zoo will transform the Zoo with more than 300,000 LED lights illuminating more than 50 animal-themed light displays, 15 miles of tree-lighting, and seasonal songs and stories. Sip hot chocolate as you stroll through the Zoo and take in all the awe-inspiring sights, including whimsical colorful projections over 15 feet tall, life-size lighted animal sculptures and ?Holly Berry,? a 1958 Cadillac featuring vibrant lights choreographed to joyful music. Festival of Lights TBD The holiday magic glistens at the Annual Moody Gardens Festival of Lights with more than a million lights and dozens of festive scenes. It's a winter wonderland with holiday shopping, pictures with Santa, a gingerbread house and the area's only outdoor ice rink. DECEMBER Dickens on the Strand TBD What started more than 20 years ago as a potluck supper has blossomed into one of Galveston Island?s most famous annual events. Costumed characters, unique vendors, glittering parades and continuous entertainment make this celebration the best of times. The Mayor's Official Downtown Houston Holiday Celebration TBD The Mayor kicks off the holiday season with a celebration featuring fireworks, entertainment, and choirs. The event culminates with the lighting of the tree outside City Hall. Tamale Festival Houston TBD Come out for a day of Great Fun, Good Music and great food! Enjoy a variety of Tamales from varied Latino Cultures as well as great Texas BBQ, Food Trucks, fair ground foods and much more! Tomball German Christmas Market & Festival TBD German Christmas Market & Festival Weihnachtsmarkt Texas Style - Free Admission, Parking, and Shuttle Herzlich Willkommen! It's a Texas German celebration on the old downtown streets of Tomball, Texas. You don't have to be German to enjoy this festival! Christmas Village at Bayou Bend TBD Just in time for the holidays, Santa and his reindeer visit Bayou Bend for 12 evenings of festive fun this December. During ?Christmas Village at Bayou Bend,? Ima Hogg?s former home is decked out with merry decorations, a trail of sparkling lights, animated projections, and performances. At the center of the ?Christmas Village? will be an elaborate Spiegeltent?a Belgian ?tent of mirrors? comprising more than 1,200 separate pieces. Annual Candlelight Tour in the Park TBD The historic homes clustered in downtown?s Sam Houston Park open their doors for the Heritage Society?s Annual Holiday Candlelight Tour in the Park. Centuries-old seasonal decorations and costumed carolers take revelers back in time to celebrate the season. AdvoCare Texas Bowl: Big 12 vs. SEC TBD Don?t miss the next sellout as the Big 12 takes on the SEC in the 11th Annual AdvoCare V100 Texas Bowl! Game festivities include tailgating parties and live music. Best time to book a flight to Houston 6 weeks before you fly for U.S. domestic flightsShop Tuesday at 3pm for domestic (U.S.) airline tickets. (Sales start to hit the wires Monday, are matched by other airlines by Tuesday afternoon and disappear by Thursday night ? so you have a 3 day window to get the best deals on tickets sales.) Airlines start discounting about 3 1/2 months before departure for U.S. domestic flights and 4-5 months before for international flights. If you buy before this you?ll probably be paying full fare. Airline ticket prices increase dramatically inside 14 days before departure ? 10 or 7 days before for low cost airlines. (After that they assume you?re last-minute business traveler who?ll pay what ever it takes to get a flight.)