Get in the Santa Claus-themed spirit this long holiday weekend in the Conroe and Montgomery areas with these fun events.

1. Challenge an ugly sweater contest at a business women's networking event
Dec. 21
The Montgomery County Association of Business Women are hosting the monthly Conroe business builder coffee and networking event. This month, Jamie Meche with Comforts of Home will speak about caregiving for the holidays. Win a prize for best-dressed ugly Christmas sweater or Christmas attire. 8:30-9:30 a.m. Free. Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber, 505 W. Davis St., Conroe.

2. Enjoy a hayride
Dec. 21
The Christmas Lights Hayride takes place Friday and includes a dinner buffet, Christmas cookie-decorating and hayrides for children (5:30 p.m.) and adults (7 p.m.). 5:30-8:30 p.m. $8.95-$12.95 and up. RSVP only to [email protected]. April Sound Country Club, 1000 April Sound Blvd., Montgomery. Learn more here.

3. Be the star at karaoke
Dec. 22
Sing karaoke at Southern Star Brewing Co. as it partners with DJ Phil. 7-9 p.m. Southern Star Brewing Co., 3525 N. Frazier St., Conroe. 936-441-2739. www.southernstarbrewing.com

4. Have fun with Santa Claus
Dec. 22
Santa Nate is coming to this Conroe event which features an unlimited breakfast buffet, games, crafts and Santa. 9-11 a.m. $12. Conroe's Incredible Pizza Co., 230 S. Loop 336 W., Conroe. 936-441-2222. Learn more here.

5. Party like it's winter
Dec. 22
Bundle up to this winter taproom celebration featuring special beer releases, treats and food from Bright Relish, and free holiday family and dog photography. Noon-10 p.m. Entry is free. 936-447-4677. RSVP here. B-52 Brewing Co., 12470 Milroy Lane, Conroe.

6. Get spiritual
Dec. 24
Celebrate your spirituality at the Candlelight Christmas Eve at Grand Central Church. The candlelit vigil is meant to be an evening of reflection and worship. 4-5 p.m. Free. Grand Central Church, 1115 Houston St., Conroe. www.grandcentral.church

7. Eat cheese and chocolate
Dec. 26
B-52 Brewing Co. and Rollin' Local food cart are pairing boards of chocolate and cheese with hand-picked flights of brews. Noon-10 p.m. Entry is free. 936-447-4677. B-52 Brewing Co., 12470 Milroy Lane, Conroe. Learn more here.