Your guide for events and things to plan for in The Woodlands and South Montgomery County around the holiday season.
5 places to see Christmas lights
1. Christmas Village at Bayou Bend This event runs Dec. 14-Jan. 5 and features sledding and snowball fights. 5:30-9 p.m. (Wed.-Thu., Sun.), 5:30-10 p.m. (Fri.-Sat). $8-$18. 6003 Memorial Drive, Houston. 713-639-7300. www.mfah.org
2. Home for the Holidays This 38th annual event runs Nov. 10- Dec. 22 and features strolling performers, exhibits and shopping.10 a.m.-5 p.m. (Mon.-Sat.), noon-5 p.m. (Sun.). Free. Old Town Spring, 403 Main St., Spring. 281-353-9310. www.oldtownspring.com
3. Houston Zoo Lights The Houston Zoo transforms into a winter wonderland from Nov. 17-Jan. 13 and includes a holiday train village and an enchanted forest. 5-10 p.m. (value nights), 5-11 p.m. (prime nights). $6.95-$22.95. Houston Zoo, 6200 Hermann Park Drive, Houston. 713-533-6500. www.houstonzoo.org/zoolights
4. Nite of Lites Each block in Prestonwood Forest boasts a different holiday decor theme in this 41st annual event which runs Dec. 8-31. Dusk. Free. Prestonwood Forest, 13702 Prestonwood Forest Drive, Houston. www.prestonwoodforestonline.com
5. Santa’s Wonderland This Texas tradition runs Nov. 9-Dec. 30 and features hayrides, carriage rides, a snow playground and the West Pole Express. Hours vary by day. $19.95-$34.95. 18898 Hwy. 6, College Station. 979-690-7212. www.santas-wonderland.com
5 Shops for last-minute gift ideas
1. Cupcakes & Bubbles This bar and bakery specializes in organic cupcakes, champagne and sparkling wine, available in gift boxes. Retail items are also available. 26400 Kuykendahl Road, Tomball. 832-559-7511. www.cupcakesandbubbles.com
2. Duette Gifts and Paper This gift shop specializes in one-of-a-kind merchandise and personalized products for all ages in addition to customizable paper products. 1201 Lake Woodlands Drive, Ste. 2196, The Woodlands. 281-419-0773. www.duettegiftsandpaper.com
3. Schakolad Chocolate Factory Gift-givers can create their own gift box of signature truffles at this European-style retail chocolate boutique. 1500 Research Forest Drive, Shenandoah. 281-292-9900. www.schakolad.com
4. Tumbleweeds & Notions This boutique offers a wide selection of locally sourced home decor items, gifts, women’s clothing and accessories. 8021 Research Forest Drive, Ste. C-1, The Woodlands. 832-510-3585. www.facebook.com/tumbleweedsandnotions
5. vomFASS The Woodlands This German-based locally owned franchise boasts a wide selection of cold-pressed oils, flavored vinegars, spices, spirits and infused liquors, available in gift baskets. 1950 Hughes Landing Blvd., Ste. 1800, The Woodlands. 281-296-7102. https://thewoodlands.vomfassusa.com
