November in Houston offers a unique mix of seasonal festivities and outdoor activities, making it a great month to explore the city. With cooler temperatures and the start of holiday events, there’s plenty for locals and visitors to enjoy. Here’s your guide to the best things to do in Houston this November.
Houston’s Annual Thanksgiving Parade: A Holiday Tradition
Every year, downtown Houston comes alive with the H-E-B Thanksgiving Day Parade. This longstanding tradition is one of the oldest Thanksgiving parades in the nation, drawing thousands of spectators for a morning of family-friendly festivities.
The 75th Annual H-E-B Thanksgiving Day Parade will take place on Thursday, November 28, 2024, at 9 a.m. in the heart of downtown Houston. This event is one of the oldest Thanksgiving Day parades in the country. Several hundred thousand Houstonians line the streets each year to cheer on participants.
The City of Houston Mayor, John Whitmire, revealed that Carl Lewis, a nine-time gold Olympic medalist, will lead the parade to honor Houstonians who competed in the Paris 2024 Olympics and Paralympics.
The parade will kick off with a salute to the Houston area Paris Olympians and Paralympians with a special performance of songs from Bring it On: The Musical by Lin-Manuel Miranda performed by Theatre Under the Stars (TUTS). The parade will feature additional performances, including a vocal duet from the Broadway musical Frozen, 21 high-flying balloons, and 19 colorful and unique floats, including the famous Tom Turkey, Santa Claus, and new tributes to the parade’s 75th Anniversary, Houston’s Olympians, Caring For Our Coast, and a salute to non-profits. Additionally, the parade will feature six local and regional high-stepping marching bands, the Apache Belles and Bellville Brahmadoras, dance companies, KHOU 11 Toy Drive Float, Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, and more!
What to Expect:
- Floats and Marching Bands: Elaborate floats, local marching bands, and cheerleading squads bring excitement to the streets.
- Balloon Characters: Giant balloon characters add a festive touch, delighting children and adults alike.
- Special Guests: Celebrities, local personalities, and Santa Claus himself make appearances.
Visitor Tip: Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially along Texas Avenue for the best view.
Texas Renaissance Festival: A Step Back in Time
Held annually in Todd Mission, just an hour outside Houston, the Texas Renaissance Festival is a unique weekend event through November. Set in a beautifully designed medieval village, this festival is a full-day experience of live entertainment, artisan crafts, and themed activities.
This year’s Ren Fest, running every weekend from October 12 to December 1, plus Thanksgiving Friday, is creating even more immersive experiences for adults and children. With 21 stages, The King’s Feast, jugglers, bards, acrobats, games, rides, restaurants, pub crawls, and more than 400 shops and artisans, there is something for everyone.
Festival Highlights:
- Jousting Tournaments: Witness knights in armor clash in epic battles.
- Artisan Shops: Browse handmade goods, jewelry, and medieval clothing.
- Medieval Foods: Enjoy turkey legs, mead, and other themed foods.
Pro Tip: Each weekend has a different theme, such as Celtic Christmas or Pirate Adventure, so check the schedule to plan your visit.
Zoo Lights at Houston Zoo: An Enchanting Nighttime Experience
Starting in November, Zoo Lights transforms the Houston Zoo into a winter wonderland with sparkling lights and holiday displays. Perfect for families, couples, and groups, Zoo Lights offers an immersive experience that will get you into the holiday spirit.
The holidays are right around the corner and Houston Zoo is preparing for it by selling tickets for its annual Zoo Lights & Holiday cheer event.
The event will be open from Nov.17 through January 7th, every day from 5:30 to 10:30 p.m., with the last entry allowed at 9:30.
Event Features:
- Light Displays: Wander through tunnels of lights, illuminated animal sculptures, and festive scenes.
- Photos with Santa: Capture the holiday magic with a photo op with Santa.
- Hot Chocolate and Treats: Warm up with hot cocoa and seasonal snacks available throughout the zoo.
Visitor Tip: Tickets often sell out, so it’s best to book online in advance.
Houston Museum District: Autumn Art and Culture
November is a great time to explore the Houston Museum District, which includes attractions like the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, and the Houston Museum of Natural Science. With cooler weather, November is ideal for a cultural day, with plenty of special exhibitions and events taking place across the district.
Home to Hermann Park, the Houston Zoo and 19 world-class museums, Houston’s Museum District is a cultural destination that welcomes millions of visitors every year. There is plenty to do, see and eat here to keep you busy for a full day. You may even need more time if you want to visit the neighborhood’s many museums and cultural exhibits.
For families, the Museum District offers a wide array of activities, including playing in the Children’s Museum interactive exhibits, or learning about dinosaurs and butterflies at the Houston Museum of Natural Science.
The beautiful, tree-lined neighborhood is walkable and easily accessible by METRORail, making it easy for visitors and locals to explore its many attractions with ease.
Must-Visit Exhibits:
- Museum of Fine Arts: Special fall exhibits and diverse collections, from Renaissance art to contemporary works.
- Houston Museum of Natural Science: Catch the latest IMAX films or explore seasonal exhibits.
- The Menil Collection: Always free and home to unique modern and ancient art, perfect for a relaxed day out.
Pro Tip: Thursdays offer free admission to many museums, making it an affordable outing for families or solo explorers.
Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens: A Scenic Fall Stroll
The Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens in River Oaks is a historic home and garden with stunning fall foliage in November. This former home of Houston philanthropist Ima Hogg offers a picturesque setting and insight into early Texas history.
Bayou Bend, the former home of Houston philanthropist Ima Hogg, now houses the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston’s early American decorative arts and painting collection. Considered one of the premier collections in the country, the rare and beautiful objects dating from approximately 1620 to 1876, are installed throughout the 1920s mansion in 28 period room settings.
What to Enjoy:
- Historic Home Tour: Explore beautifully preserved rooms and period furniture.
- Autumn Gardens: Stroll through gardens featuring fall-blooming flowers and seasonal decorations.
- Self-Guided Tours: Audio guides allow you to explore the grounds at your own pace.
Visitor Tip: The gardens are most vibrant in the afternoon light, so plan your visit for later in the day for ideal photo opportunities.
Thanksgiving Day Run: Turkey Trot Tradition
Join thousands of Houstonians for the annual TXU Energy Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning. This family-friendly run supports local charities and offers a fun, energetic start to the holiday.
Join us on Saturday, November 23rd, 2024, and enjoy a beer, your mini-pie, a fast race, and best of all – no guilt for sleeping in on Thanksgiving Day!?
This race marks number 8 on the Houston Holiday Series track!
Event Options:
- 5K and 10K Races: Choose between different race distances depending on your pace.
- Kids Run: A shorter course specifically for young runners.
- Post-Race Festivities: Enjoy snacks, music, and awards for top finishers.
Pro Tip: Early registration helps secure your spot, and costumes are encouraged for an extra fun twist.
Final Tips for November Fun in Houston
- Dress for the Weather: November in Houston is cooler but still mild, so dress in layers to stay comfortable.
- Check Event Schedules: Many events have specific dates, so check online for the latest updates before heading out.
- Plan Ahead for Crowds: Popular events like Zoo Lights and the Thanksgiving Parade draw large crowds, so arrive early to make the most of your experience.
From festive lights to historic tours, November in Houston offers a fantastic lineup of seasonal activities that make it easy to enjoy the city with friends and family. Dive into Houston’s rich cultural scene, get into the holiday spirit, and create unforgettable memories with these must-do activities.