Traders Village is one of the largest open-air markets in Texas, so naturally Santa makes a point to give a special appearance every year. From the Saturday after Thanksgiving to Dec. 23, kids can get their picture taken with him for free. Afterward, parents can get a little shopping done, too. It’s a win-win.

Head on over to the Houston Heights, one of the city’s nicer neighborhoods, and take in their Lights in the Heights event, located in the Woodland Heights area. One of the most popular winter activities for families in Houston, Lights in the Heights features live music, food, and awesome light shows. The event takes place the second Saturday in December, but the lights are often left up for the whole holiday season. Walk or drive through block after block of beautifully lit and decorated homes, while listening to Christmas music and sipping hot cocoa as you enjoy the sights.

Don’t want to drive all the way down to Houston? Try the Prestonwood Forest neighborhood, at 249 near Grant Road. This neighborhood goes all out, with many of the blocks creating a theme or holiday story with their decorations. Be warned, traffic gets thick! See more at www.prestonwoodforestonline.com

Ice skating at The Woodlands Mall.

Catch a movie at the Showboat Drive-in.

Spend Saturday at Urban Harvest Farmers Market. Stroll through the market for a lazy day people watching. While you’ll have to purchase produce, there are always plenty of free samples to try!

Moody Garden Festival of Lights: This holiday light spectacular at Moody Gardens is one of the area’s top displays and a holiday tradition for many families. It can be a bit pricey, but you can get tickets for up to 44% off now at www.houstononthecheap.com/go/moodylights.

Christmas on Commerce features activities for the whole family. The town of Tomball decorates over 50 ornamental lamp posts for the event, turning Commerce Street and the rest of Tomball into a magical winter wonderland. Live seasonal music and entertainment will be performed by local schools and performers, storytellers will be in attendance to spin yarns of holiday magic, and carolers will be strolling around to make the season bright. The event features a special kids’ zone for the young ones with all sorts of fun activities including a Christmas train and Santa’s Workshop where kids can craft their own ornaments and holiday crafts.