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February 04.2026
2 Minutes Read

Houston's Thanksgiving Parade Unveils Exciting Plans for 2025 Holiday Celebrations

Santa Claus waves in a sleigh at Houston Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Thanksgiving Parade Kicks Off the Holiday Spirit in Houston

Tis the season, Houston! Mayor John Whitmire recently announced exciting details for the 76th Annual H-E-B Thanksgiving Day Parade and the Reliant Presents: Deck the Hall tree lighting event, inviting families to come together and embrace the holiday spirit.

A Parade of Traditions and Talents

Scheduled for Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 27 at 9 AM, the parade will showcase the magic of community with a blend of floats, music, and fun. This year, the parade welcomes four beloved grand marshals—Clutch from the Rockets, Diesel from the Dynamo and Dash, Orbit from the Astros, and Toro from the Texans. Mayor Whitmire aptly noted that for over seven decades, families have filled the streets, celebrating gratitude and joy.

The lineup includes 15 extravagant floats and 11 impressive balloons, highlighting the rich cultural tapestry of Houston. A special tribute float will honor famed local artist David Adickes, celebrated for his iconic works like the We Love Houston sign and President Heads. Musical performances will feature talents such as Christian singer Danny Gokey and country artist Payton Howie, adding to the festive atmosphere as Santa makes his entrance with the classic tune, Santa Claus Is Coming to Town.

Free Community Celebrations

For those planning to attend, the parade is completely free, with premium seating options available starting at $28.25 for those who want the best views of the action. Visit HoustonThanksgivingParade.org for seat reservations and detailed route information.

Light Up the Season with 'Deck the Hall'

Following the parade, the holiday festivities continue with the 'Deck the Hall' concert and tree lighting on Saturday, December 6, from 4 PM to 8 PM at Hermann Square outside City Hall. This vibrant celebration includes a KidZone for children featuring fun games and crafts, ensuring a delightful experience for the whole family.

The concert, kicking off at 6 PM, will showcase R&B star Brian McKnight and will be backed by The Ernest Walker Band. Spectacular fireworks and the enchanting sight of artificial snow will cap off the evening as the tree, adorned with thousands of LED lights and ornaments, is illuminated.

Celebrating Community and Togetherness

As Mayor Whitmire expressed, these festivities not only symbolize the joy of the holiday season but also represent the unity among Houstonians. Events like these foster connections and create cherished family memories. “It’s a wonderful time for people from every neighborhood to come together and celebrate the spirit that makes Houston unique,” he shared.

If you're looking for more local holiday happenings, consider joining Houston Local Unplugged on social media for continuous updates on community events. Let’s keep this festive spirit alive, share the joy, and create memorable experiences together this holiday season!

Houston Events

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02.04.2026

Shop Local Bingo 2025: Transform Your Holiday Shopping into a Fun Adventure!

Update Turn Shopping into Local Adventure with Texas City Shop Local BingoThis holiday season, why not transform your shopping experience into a fun game with the Texas City Shop Local Bingo 2025? Set against the backdrop of a community-driven initiative, this citywide event invites Houston families, bargain hunters, and all who wish to explore Texas City to shop, save, and win prizes while supporting local businesses. The event runs from November 3 to December 15, 2025, offering participants a chance to win over $1,500 in local prizes.Why Texas City Makes for a Perfect Holiday RetreatIf you are seeking a festive getaway from the hustle and bustle of Houston, look no further than Texas City. This charming Gulf Coast town, conveniently located just south of Houston, features:Tanger Outlets: Enjoy unbeatable shopping deals.Quaint Restaurants: Dine at locally-owned cafés that offer delightful meals and unique experiences.Family-Friendly Activities: Visit attractions like the Texas City Museum and the Nessler Aquatic Center.Less Crowded Shopping: Escape the long lines and chaos of major shopping centers.The Shop Local Bingo is not only an opportunity to fill your holiday shopping list but also a way to engage with your community and create treasured memories with family and friends.How to Participate in Shop Local BingoJoining the Texas City Shop Local Bingo is simple and free! Start by picking up your Bingo card at local venues, such as City Hall or the Moore Memorial Library, or you can easily download it online. Then, shop and dine at participating businesses, saving your receipts to fill out your Bingo card.Once you fill a row on your card, you can enter to win exciting Texas City prizes like vintage shirts and local goodies. Complete your entire card, and you might just land the Grand Prize Basket—brimming with gift cards and fun items donated by local businesses.Exciting Prizes Await! What Can You Win?As a participant, you are not only shopping to win but also helping to uplift small businesses that contribute to the vibrant Texas City economy. Prizes include:52 free Whataburger coupons, complete with a festive cooler.Family tickets for local entertainment such as Terror Isle.Tanger outlet gift cards and various dining gift certificates.A year-long pass to the Texas City Museum.The grand prize drawing will take place during the City Commission Meeting on December 17, where excitement will reach its peak as lucky winners are chosen.Supporting Local Business Takes Center StageThe Texas City Shop Local Bingo initiative promotes the importance of shopping local and celebrating community spirit. Every dollar spent in Texas City supports local jobs, city parks, libraries, and nonprofit services—benefits that extend far beyond the holidays.Make the Most of Your Shopping ExperienceIf you are eager to savor unique experiences and save money this holiday season, make a plan to head to Texas City and join in on the Shop Local Bingo fun! It's a fantastic way to connect with the community while enjoying some holiday shopping.If you enjoyed this story, why not stay connected? Join Houston Local Unplugged on Facebook and YouTube for exclusive local information.

01.25.2026

Discover Spooktacular Halloween Events in Houston for Families

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Explore Free and Fun Events in Houston This Weekend, October 31 - November 2

Update Celebrate Dia De Los Muertos in Houston: A Citybound Adventure As October winds down, Houston comes alive with vibrant festivities that cater to all ages and interests. This October 31 to November 2, families, students, and fun-seekers alike can engage in exciting free events that stir community spirit and cultural celebration, especially through the rich traditions of Dia de los Muertos. From movie nights under the stars to lively parades, these events not only provide entertainment but also serve as heartfelt tributes to our loved ones. Experience Family-Friendly Events This Weekend Start off your weekend with Family Movie Night at Trebly Park, where Disney's beloved film Coco will be screened on October 31 at 7 PM. Bring the kids early for face painting, character meet-and-greets, and complimentary popcorn and candy starting at 6 PM. This family-friendly outing encapsulates the essence of Dia de los Muertos by celebrating the spirits of those who have passed on. The Monster Mash at Lyric Market offers a spooky twist on Halloween celebrations. Also on October 31, starting at 6 PM, attendees can enjoy festive cocktails, local cuisine from eight different restaurants, and participate in a thrilling costume contest. It’s a great way to indulge in the spirit of the season while savoring Houston's culinary diversity. With live music and vibrant decorations, it promises to be an unforgettable evening. Cultural Traditions Intertwined with Local Talent Bastrop Art Fest on November 1 showcases artistic talents and crafts including live glassblowing and bronze pouring demonstrations. Families are encouraged to join in the fun, capturing memories during the Bastrop Art Fest Photo Contest for a chance to win prizes. This artsy adventure further connects attendees to local culture while providing a unique day's outing just a short drive from Houston. Engage in the Spirit of Dia de los Muertos with Citywide Festivities Houston's 5th Annual Día de los Muertos Parade & Festival on November 1 is not to be missed! This energetic celebration will feature a parade through Downtown Houston, allowing friends and families to join in the fun while honoring their loved ones. Expect an evening filled with lively music, crafts, delicious food from local vendors, and more — all aimed at celebrating life and remembrance. Over at Discovery Green, another celebratory event will take place on November 2 that wraps up the weekend with artistic performances and traditional music highlighting Tejas roots. The festivities culminate in a community offering as attendees can add mementos to a beautiful ofrenda created by local artists. Why These Events Matter Beyond the fun, these events are vital for community bonding. They create opportunities for residents to connect, share experiences, and honor their heritage. Local culture thrives in such gatherings wherein diverse backgrounds are celebrated and artistic talents showcased. For those on a budget, free events like these are a perfect way to explore what Houston has to offer while fostering a sense of togetherness. Conclusion: Enjoy and Connect with Your City Whether you're a lifelong resident, a college student, or a family looking for weekend fun, Houston's free and fun events from October 31 to November 2 have something for everyone. Embrace the upcoming festivities and take this chance to create meaningful memories while celebrating community and culture. If you enjoyed this story, why not stay connected? Join Houston Local Unplugged on Facebook and YouTube for exclusive local information. @houstonlocalunplugged

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