The Woodlands Township invites residents to take part in the beloved tradition of the annual Holiday Lighting and Decorating Contest. Hosted by most of the village associations with support from the Township and The Woodlands Fire Department (WFD), the contest brings a festive seasonal spirit to the community for residents and visitors.

Rotolo’s Craft & Crust has officially kicked off the holidays with its annual “Letters to Santa” program, bringing the magic of Christmas to families and creating unforgettable moments for young and old alike. 

“Each year, we look forward to bringing this heartwarming experience to families during the Christmas season, adding an extra layer of joy and magic to their dining experience,” said Chad Calongne, franchise owner for Rotolo’s. 

When families dine at Rotolo’s through Dec. 24, children can write their letter to Santa and place it in the “Magical North Pole” mailbox. Before the end of their meal, a Rotolo’s server will hand-deliver a reply from Santa himself, along with a golden ticket for one free kid’s entrée.

The Woodlands Township Aquatics Division recently earned recognition from Aquatics International in the Best of Aquatics category for their innovative and creative methods in attracting visitors to all 14 facilities. Noteworthy marketing initiatives include the High Seas Adventure Program, Pop at the Pool, crafted photo frame signs for programs, and informative aquatics newsletters. 

A landmark event fifty years in the making returns to Galveston's historic downtown for the 50th Anniversary of Galveston Historical Foundation's (GHF) Dickens on The Strand, presented by the British Consulate-General Houston. The event, GHF's largest fundraiser, returns the first weekend in December for three days of the sights and sounds of Charles Dickens' work, surrounded by the island's unmatched Victorian-era architecture. This annual festival begins Friday, December 1, with free admission to Fezziwig's Beer Hall from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and continues with ticketed entry on Saturday, December 2, from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday, December 3, from 12 to 6 p.m.

In celebration of Chanukah, Market Street will host Chabad of The Woodlands for a Grand Chanukah Celebration and Menorah Lighting on Sunday, December 10 from 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm.

Israel Portnoy will perform at this year’s event. He is an artist, singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and producer. Israel grew up singing in his local synagogue and was influenced by the Beatles, Eric Clapton and Steely Dan at a young age. These early influences have informed his original, eclectic sound.

Kick off the holiday season with The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion and Conroe Independent School District at Holly Jolly Jingle Thursday, November 30 at 7 p.m. The festive evening will feature a musical celebration of the season by local student performers and fun winter activities for all ages. Tickets are not required for this free event which is sponsored by KPMG.  Gates open at 6 p.m.