A 2010 Guide to Thanksgiving Events and Activities in Houston, Texas

Thanksgiving is a holiday when families come together, and with children out of school and friends and families visiting Houston, Texas, a guide to the best of Thanksgiving Day and weekend events for the 2010 holiday season can help you plan to get the most out of the few days you have together and pleasant temperatures mean you can find both indoor and outdoor activities that everyone can enjoy.

Nov. 25 Annual HEB Holiday Parade 9:00 a.m.

New York City may have the Macy's Parade, but here in Houston Thanksgiving Day wouldn't be the same without the HEB Holiday Parade, which is a 61 year old tradition. Host to more than 400,000 people in downtown Houston, nearly 2 million people in Houston, Austin and Dallas Texas; watch the parade while beginning their Thanksgiving dinner preparations via a live broadcast on KHOU-TV. In our household it has become a tradition to watch while I begin the dinner cooking. General admission to the parade is free, but tickets for Grandstand, Early Bird Turkey and Wheel Chair accessible seating are available online and prices range from $12.00-$19.00 during early bird purchases (until Nov. 14) and $15 and $25.00 after Nov. 14.

Nov. 25 Uptown Holiday Lighting 6:00 p.m.

After the dishes are done and everyone is ready for some fresh air and a walk why not spend the evening in the Galleria where live entertainment, an appearance by Santa and fireworks will light up the sky, kicking off the holiday season. For more information visit Uptown-houston.com or call 713-621-2011. This event is free and open to the public.

Nov. 25, 2010 -Jan. 17, 2011 The Ice at Discovery Green

Ice isn't a familiar sight in Houston but during the holiday season one of our favorite parks becomes host to over 7200 square feet of sparking ice. Not only is skating available to the public but there will also be art exhibits, musical performances and special skating appearances during the season. Visit the Discover Green calendar online for more information about specific events.

Nov. 26 Celebrate Thanksgiving with Santa at The Children's Museum of Houston 10am-6pm

The Children's Museum of Houston has been chosen year after year as one of the best children's museums in the United States. Spend the day exploring all that this museum has to offer from science to pretend play. Prepare for a "Thanksgiving" parade from 10-1 and after the parade the great man himself appears, so be ready with your camera's to catch Santa in the act. Admission is $8.00. Find out more about the Houston Children's Museum online or call 713-522-1138.

Nov. 27-Dec. 19 8^thAnnual Holiday Market with Santa

Avoid the shopping crowds at the mall and visit Traders Village as it becomes a winter wonderland of shopping, fun, food, and music to begin the holiday season. Don't forget to get your photo with Santa! This event is free and open to the public, but parking is $3.00.

Looking for more to do this Thanksgiving in Houston? Be sure to find out about these "Fun Family Activities in Houston, Texas for the Thanksgiving Holiday," that offer information on the Nutcracker Ballet and the Woodlands Winter Festival.

During the holiday season and Thanksgiving break many people become more active in charities. Find out where you can help the Houston community with "Places Where You Can Volunteer During Thanksgiving in Houston, Texas."

With all of these Thanksgiving events, activities and parades there is sure to be something for everyone to do whether you are visiting Houston or live here year round.

Happy Holidays!