Thanksgiving in Houston combines big-city energy with the warmth of Southern hospitality. Whether you’re cheering on a parade, savoring Texas-style holiday dining, or exploring twinkling lights that mark the start of the festive season, Houston has plenty to make your Thanksgiving week feel special.
You may also like to read👉🏼 : Thanksgiving in Seattle – Best Things To Do + Events + Activities in 2025
🦃 Thanksgiving in Houston, Texas — Houston Texas Thanksgiving Events – Houston Thanksgiving Dinner Options & Festive Things To Do
Here’s your complete guide to celebrating Thanksgiving in Houston (Houston Thanksgiving), with event highlights, must-do activities, weather insights, and tips for an unforgettable holiday.
🌤 Weather in Houston During Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving in Houston typically brings mild and pleasant weather, with daytime highs around 70–75°F (21–24°C) and cooler evenings in the 50s°F (10–13°C). You might catch a crisp breeze or a light chill after sunset, but it’s rarely too cold to enjoy outdoor parades or al fresco dining. Occasional light rain can occur, but most days remain dry and sunny — perfect for holiday celebrations.
🎉 Top Things to Do in Houston For Thanksgiving
Watch the H-E-B Thanksgiving Day Parade
One of Houston’s proudest traditions, this parade has filled the downtown streets for decades with larger-than-life balloons, colorful floats, and marching bands. Families line the route early to grab a front-row seat as the parade moves through Smith and Walker Streets. It’s completely free and perfect for kicking off your Thanksgiving morning with a festive spirit.
Explore the Houston Zoo Lights
Just after Thanksgiving, the Houston Zoo transforms into a glowing wonderland with millions of LED lights. Themed tunnels, animal-shaped lanterns, and hot chocolate stations make it one of the most magical evening activities for both kids and adults.
You may also like to read👉🏼 : Thanksgiving in San Antonio Tx + Best Things To Do + Events + Activities
Visit Discovery Green Ice Rink
Located in the heart of downtown, this outdoor rink opens just in time for the holidays. Skating beneath the skyline and fairy lights makes for a charming evening outing — especially after a Thanksgiving feast.
Spend a Day in the Museum District
Thanksgiving week is quieter in Houston’s Museum District, which means you can enjoy the Museum of Fine Arts or the Houston Museum of Natural Science without large crowds. The nearby Hermann Park is ideal for a peaceful post-meal stroll among oak trees and fountains.
Attend the Uptown Holiday Lighting
Held the evening after Thanksgiving, this annual event marks the beginning of Houston’s holiday season. It features live performances, fireworks, and the lighting of over 500,000 sparkling lights along Post Oak Boulevard. It’s free, family-friendly, and a must-see if you’re in town that weekend.
Enjoy a Thanksgiving Weekend River Cruise
For something different, hop aboard a Buffalo Bayou Boat Tour. The calm water and fall skyline views are a refreshing way to spend a sunny Houston afternoon while learning about the city’s history and wildlife.
Want to book Tours then click here to book your favorite tours to make you holidays memorable by GetyourGuide. Or through Viator then click this.
🦃 Must-Do Houston Thanksgiving Events
H-E-B Thanksgiving Day Parade
📍 Downtown Houston
🕘 Morning, Thanksgiving Day
The city’s most anticipated Thanksgiving tradition! Expect high-energy marching bands, dancers, local celebrities, and giant helium balloons. Bring lawn chairs or blankets early for the best view.
Uptown Holiday Lighting
📍 Post Oak Boulevard
🕕 Friday evening after Thanksgiving
A magical tree-lighting event complete with fireworks, live holiday music, and a visit from Santa himself. It’s a local favorite and the perfect way to launch the Christmas season.
Turkey Trot Houston
📍 Galleria Area
🕖 Thanksgiving morning
Join thousands of runners (and walkers) at the BakerRipley Houston Turkey Trot — a fun community race that supports local families. You can choose between a 5K, 10K, or kids’ race before heading home for your feast.
Magical Winter Lights Festival
📍 Gulf Greyhound Park, La Marque (40 mins from Houston)
🕕 Late November through early January
If you’re up for a short drive, this lantern and light festival is one of the most impressive in Texas. It features massive themed light sculptures, cultural performances, and carnival rides — a must-visit activity for the Thanksgiving weekend.
You may also like to read👉🏼 :Thanksgiving In San Francisco – Best Things To Do + Events + Activities in 2025
🍽 Where to Dine for Thanksgiving in Houston
Brennan’s of Houston
📍 Midtown Houston
Famous for its Creole flair, Brennan’s serves a three-course Thanksgiving menu. The Southern ambiance and attentive service make it a standout choice for a holiday meal.
The Butcher Shop at B&B Butchers
📍 Washington Avenue
Perfect for those who want a gourmet feast at home.
Cleburne Cafeteria
📍 West University Place
A Houston institution for homestyle comfort food. It’s a great choice if you’re traveling with kids.
Backstreet Café
📍 River Oaks
Set in a charming 1930s home, this spot offers a cozy, neighborhood vibe. Their Thanksgiving menu blends traditional dishes with creative Southern touches.
Hugo’s
📍 Montrose District
If you’re craving something beyond the usual, this upscale Mexican restaurant serves a festive Thanksgiving buffet with Latin-inspired desserts.
Lucille’s
📍 Museum District
Known for its refined Southern cuisine, Lucille’s offers a soulful Thanksgiving dinner. The restaurant’s focus on heritage recipes makes it a unique Houston experience.
Hotel Dining Options
If you’re staying downtown, many hotels like The Post Oak Hotel or Four Seasons Houston host lavish Thanksgiving buffets complete with live music and holiday desserts.
💡 Tip: Reservations fill up early, so it’s best to book by early November — especially for fine dining or buffets.
You may also like to read👉🏼 :Thanksgiving In New York City – Best Things To Do + Events + Activities in 2025
Hotel Stays – Thanksgiving in Houston, Texas
Here’s a list of hotels near downtown Houston, ideally located for the Thanksgiving Day Parade, Uptown Holiday Lighting, and other major Thanksgiving events in Houston.
- Club Quarters Hotel Downtown, Houston: Just a short walk from the Thanksgiving Day Parade route, Club Quarters is one of the most convenient and affordable stays in downtown Houston. You can literally step out of the hotel and catch the parade without worrying about parking or traffic.
- Aloft Houston Downtown – This chic, colorful hotel by Marriott blends comfort with style — and it’s just a block away from the parade route!
💡 Tip: If you plan to attend both the Thanksgiving Day Parade (downtown) and the Uptown Holiday Lighting (Post Oak Boulevard), you can:
- Stay downtown for parade day, then
- Take a quick Uber (about 15–20 minutes) to Uptown/Galleria for the lighting event.
This will help you to avoid high parking fees and traffic jams while staying close to both celebrations.
🧭 Travel Tips for Visitors – Houston Thanksgiving
- Book Early: Hotels near downtown and the Galleria fill fast during the parade and Uptown Lighting weekend.
- Getting Around: Rideshare and METRORail are the easiest ways to reach downtown parade spots. Avoid driving near parade routes due to potential closures.
- Dress in Layers: Houston weather can shift quickly from sunny to breezy — bring a light jacket for evening events.
- Parking: Use parking garages located near the Theater District or Allen Center for easier access to the parade.
- Plan a Day Trip: Extend your weekend with a short drive to Galveston’s beaches or the Space Center for family fun after the holiday.
You may also like to read👉🏼 :Thanksgiving In Orlando – Best Things To Do + Events + Activities in 2025
Now you know what to do on Thanksgiving in Houston with these best Things to do in Houston for Thanksgiving weekend. I hope you plan a trip to Houston, Texas, with many fun Thanksgiving events in Houston and fantastic Houston Thanksgiving dinner options. Save this and enjoy this Thanksgiving in Houston, Texas.
Picture Courtesy – CanvaPro
Follow more on social media channels at
Facebook Twitter Instagram Pinterest
All content and photos belong to travelwithme247blog(dot)com and use of content/photos without permission would result in legal action.
Read the Disclaimer, Affiliate & Cookie Policy by clicking here.
Discover more from Travel With Me 24 X 7
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.