From attending holiday-themed events to taking a hike with the family, there is no shortage of events and activities happening in the Lake Houston area from mid-December to late January.

Celebrate the holidays Dec. 19-Jan. 3

The East Montgomery County Improvement District hosts its annual Holiday to Remember ice-skating event. The event includes ice skating, bumper cars, snow slides, a classic car show, a holiday market, train rides, carriage rides and movie showings. Times vary. $5 (ice skating only); $150 (season passes). Valley Ranch Town Center, 22296 Market Place Drive, New Caney. 281-354-4419. www.emctx.com

Take photos with Santa Dec. 18-24

Santa Claus is making a stop at Deerbrook Mall in Humble to take photos with children. Photo packages range from wallet photos to family portraits. Registration is required. Face coverings may be required, depending on state health regulations surrounding the coronavirus pandemic. Times vary. $39.99-$49.99. Deerbrook Mall, 20131 Hwy. 59, Humble. 281-446-6626. www.shopdeerbrookmall.com

Watch holiday movies Dec. 26 and Jan. 2

Families are invited to a socially distanced movie night at Redemption Square in the Generation Park development. The movies will be “Home Alone” on Dec. 26 and “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” on Jan. 2. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own blankets to the outdoor showing. 7 p.m. Free. Redemption Square, 250 Assay St., Houston. 713-860-3000. www.redemptionsquare.com

Hike with the family Dec. 29

Mercer Botanic Gardens hosts a family hike along 5 miles of its beginner trails. Staff will be on hand with maps. Participants will be given a free bamboo walking stick; however, the sticks are provided one per person as supplies last. 9-11 a.m. Free. Mercer Botanic Gardens, 22306 Aldine Westfield Road, Humble. 713-274-4160. www.hcp4.net/community/parks/mercer

Go go-karting Dec. 30

Speedsportz Racing Park North Houston hosts its first junior go-kart race for racers ages 13-15. Included in the entry fee is admission to a qualifying round, heat race and main race. 6 p.m. $60. Speedsportz Racing Park North Houston, 23050 Speed St., New Caney. 866-607-7223. www.speedsportzracingpark.com

Attend the ballet Jan. 16

The Charles Bender Performing Arts Center hosts its annual "Night at the Ballet" performance with dancers from the Houston-based Vitacca School For Dance. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, shows are restricted to 50% capacity. 2 p.m., 7 p.m. $15. Charles Bender Performing Arts Center, 611 Higgins St., Humble. 281-446-4140. www.humblepac.com

Go to a farmers market Jan. 23