Skip to content
CONTACT US

Holiday Traditions by the Bay

This time of year, most people picture twinkling lights on homes, landlocked coziness, and the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. But in Bay Area Houston, the season shines a bit differently. Those twinkling lights shimmer across the water and reflect throughout the bay. Boats decked out in glittering decor drift past families on the docks, each pointing out their favorites. Add in the sound of holiday music spilling from waterfront restaurants and you’ve got a winter getaway on the Texas coast that’s merry, bright, and distinctly coastal.

If you’re visiting for the many Bay Area holiday events, shopping for a loved one, or seeking out seasonal bites along the bay, our neck of the woods knows how to put a nautical twist on Christmas cheer. So pack your Santa hat, sunglasses, and your childlike wonder for a Christmas by the bay.

Christmas Boat Lane Parade

If there’s one event that captures the heart of Bay Area Houston during the holidays, it’s the much-loved Christmas Boat Lane Parade. As one of the largest boat parades in the region, this Bay Area tradition lights up the night with more than 60 illuminated boats cruising down Clear Lake and through the Kemah Channel.

When: Saturday, December 13th, 6:00-9:00 p.m.

Where to Watch: 

If you make time for one Bay Area Houston festivity this holiday season, the Christmas Boat Lane Parade is a sure bet for holiday magic the whole family will enjoy.

Coastal Lights, Holiday Nights

The boat parade may be the signature event, but the glow certainly doesn’t stop there. Bay Area Houston shines bright all season with holiday light displays, waterfront decorations, and festive celebrations! Here are a few ways to see the sparkle:

Take a drive throughout Bay Area Houston this time of year, and you’ll see there is no shortage of holiday activities to do near Houston this December.

A Taste of the Season

The holidays taste better by the water. Across Bay Area Houston, waterfront restaurants and cozy coffee spots celebrate the season, making indulging in coastal flavors feel festive. 

Start a day in the Bay Area by warming up with some hot cocoa or a peppermint latte at a local coffee shop like Front Porch Coffee in Texas City or Soulfreak Railroad Cafe in League City. Waterfront dining for lunch or dinner is always the correct answer when you’re in town – try Schafer’s Coastal Bar & Grille or Opus Ocean Grille and enjoy the bay breeze with fantastic fare. Then, toast the season with a pint from Galveston Bay Brewing.

Local Holiday Shopping

Ditch the malls and skip the online stress. Holiday shopping in Bay Area Houston feels more joyful when you shop local. The region’s boutiques, makers’ markets, and art galleries are filled with unique finds for everyone on your list.

This season, shop the bay and bring home gifts as unique as the Gulf Coast itself.

Family Fun & Coastal Cheer

There’s no shortage of family holiday events in the Houston area, and Bay Area Houston has some of the best. Here are some events that will appeal to all ages.

Christmas with kids in Bay Area Houston is an easy win and a recipe for lifelong holiday memories.

Plan Your Coastal Holiday Getaway

The holidays hit differently when you’re by the water. Lights glimmer brighter, laughter carries farther, and traditions feel a little more magical when they’re reflected along the bay. Plan your winter getaway on the Texas coast and make festive memories that will sparkle for years to come. Start planning your holiday visit at VisitBayAreaHouston.com.