Over the course of the winter, Houston embraces grand celebrations, and those residing in Emory Glen can partake in numerous  activities in Magnolia and neighboring areas to join in the festive spirit. Here’s a round-up of events that you won’t want to miss — all of which contribute to creating a cheerful atmosphere.

Magnolia

1. The Magic of Christmas Parade of Lights
December

Lighted floats make their way down the streets of Magnolia for this delightful holiday parade. You’re sure to see the Grinch, Santa, and costumed performers. Food trucks also offer seasonal treats for purchase.

2. Magnolia Holiday Market
December

Support local businesses at this charming market held at St. Paul Lutheran Church. There will be crafts and a visit from Santa Claus, as well as vendors selling handmade or homegrown goods, fresh farm produce, plants, ready-to-eat foods, unique gifts, and much more.

3. Malcolm Purvis Library
December

Looking for fun that’s both festive and educational? Throughout December, the Malcolm Purvis Library organizes craft time, readings of kids’ favorite stories, and activities geared toward various age groups. Santa will pose for pictures, the preteen book club will host a holiday party, there will be a screening of The Polar Express, and more.

Montgomery

1. Deck the Pines
December

Pine Market’s annual holiday festival features live Nativity animals, a DJ, mechanical reindeer, fire-juggling elves, and more. Those in attendance can expect live performances, the annual tree lighting, and a visit from Santa.

2. Light Up the Park
December

Businesses and residents have decorated light poles with lights and seasonal cheer at Cedar Brake Park. There will be caroling, and opportunities for kids to write and send letters to the North Pole. Santa himself will make an appearance, and pose for photographs.

3. Historic Montgomery Christmas Parade
December

Ring in the holidays with a fabulous market featuring local vendors, then line up for the annual holiday parade. A must-see, Montgomery’s historic homes are decked out for the holidays, and open for touring.

4. Montgomery Snow Party
December

Historic Montgomery will be blanketed in snow for one day only, and what a day it will be! Come out to the area across from Fernland Historical Park and bring your sled to slide down the snow hill. Kids will also have opportunities to make snowmen, snowballs, and snow angels. Don’t forget to bring a thermos of hot cocoa.

Conroe

1. Christmas on Main Street
November

Come for the tree lighting and stay for the holiday party. Businesses will open their doors to shoppers, and the streets will be filled with festive carolers. Enjoy jazz music, Christmas stories, and visits from Santa. Families can vote for their favorite Christmas shop windows.

2. Montgomery County Mistletoe Market
December

Support small business owners and get all of your holiday shopping done at this annual market. Vendors offer unique items, including clothing, home decor, gourmet food items, handmade jewelry, and more.

3. The Toby Powell Conroe Christmas Celebration
December

Bring the kids out for a celebration filled with snow hills, face painting, a petting zoo, pony rides, games, and visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Don’t miss the Kiwanis Christmas Parade in downtown Conroe.

4. Lake Conroe Christmas Boat Parade
December

Sailors will light up the holidays with a floating, lighted parade on beautiful Lake Conroe once again, with each boat having its own holiday theme. There will be fireworks and music, and proceeds from the event will support Love Heals Youth, a charity devoted to helping foster children.

The Woodlands

1. Woodlands Church Festival of Lights
December

Woodlands Church sets up a beautiful light display each year to celebrate the season. Stroll the lighted path and let the radiant displays remind you of the true meaning of Christmas. Proceeds support local missions.

2. Christmas Fest and Night of Carols
December

Everyone is invited to Woodlands Methodist Church for a festive start to the holidays. Kick off the season with a holiday extravaganza that features inflatables, music, crafts, food, and more. Afterward, join Bristol House for a night of carols.

Tomball

1. Deck the Depot Tree Lighting
December

The Depot decks the halls and lights the Christmas tree for this annual event that also includes a kids’ zone, train rides, vendors, food, drinks, holiday music, and an appearance from Santa. Children can take a photo with the big man himself, and write letters to be sent to the North Pole.

2. Tomball German Festival Christmas Market
December

Celebrate the holidays the German way during this beloved festival. With vendors, live music and other performances, ethnic food, drinks, carnival rides, dancing, street performers, and more, it’s no surprise that hundreds of people attend each year. More than 150 vendors and 30 entertainers are expected to participate in this year’s event.

Looking for some other things to do in the area? Discover these 9 activities 5 minutes from Emory Glen.

Photos courtesy of: Magnolia (Magnolia Market); Visit Montgomery (Light Up the Park); Courier of Montgomery County (Historic Montgomery Christmas Parade, Snow Party, and The Toby Powell Christmas Celebration); Hello Woodlands (Christmas on Main Street and Christmas Fest & Night of Carols); Boat Setter (Lake Conroe Christmas Boat Parade); Christmas Eve at Woodlands Church (Woodlands Church Festival of Lights); Tomball, TX (Deck the Depot Tree); Visit Tomball (German Festival).