It seems that bells are ringing and children are singing louder and louder as the holidays inch closer. To celebrate the most wonderful time of the year, the city of Houston, Texas is beginning to host many different events throughout the entire month of December.

Events range from free merchant markets to high-end galas, but whichever party one attends, it is sure to bring Christmas cheer.

For the entire month of December, Discovery Green Park will transform into a Winter Wonderland for all of Houston to enjoy. Kinder Lake, which typically is home to paddle boats and other water activities, will be frozen over for the holidays where families can skate for just $14. Other performances will take place on the rink such as Rainbow on ICE and many more dazzling acts.

On Dec. 12, the Holiday Tree Lighting and Kwanzaa Celebration on Almeda Road will kick off for the second year in a row. Festivities begin at 2 P.M. and will span between Palm Street and Prospect Street. The event will include live performances from Kwanzaa drummers, cultural merchant booths, and pictures with Santa. This celebration will bring together people from different cultures to celebrate the holidays. Admission is free, but extra accessories will be of cost.

The Houston Zoo will be transformed into an incredible light exhibit every night of the month from 6 P.M. to 10 P.M. until Jan. 6. With more than two million lights twinkling over the animal enclosures, the Houston Zoo Lights has become a favorite family tradition for many. Admission prices range from $19.95 to $14.95, depending on the night of the week. However special offers and discounts can be found on the Houston Zoo’s website.

Contrary from the city feel at Houston Zoo Lights, one of the Cypress area’s most historical sites, Old Town Spring, will turn into a classical Winter Wonderland until Dec. 20. Among the historical roads and antique shops will stand Christmas carolers, festive food and drink booths, and exciting live performances. The cafes and restaurants in Old Town Spring will match the theme of the Holidays, where some will have special deals and holiday delights. There is no fee for sightseeing at Old Town Spring, but food, drinks, and merchandise will be priced accordingly.

Once the excitement and nonstop running has slowly died down, New Years quickly rolls around the corner. Celebrating all of the positives from the 12 months before, City Centre located in the Memorial area will host a massive New Year’s Eve party. Complete with a DJ, fireworks show, and a clock that counts down until the new year, the shopping plaza is sure to be buzzing with excitement on this upbeat night.

Time around the holidays is always full of constant shopping, gift wrapping, and racing all around town to find the perfect present. However, this season, let’s remember that spending time with family is just as important. Stated above are free or cheap family-oriented activities that will serve as a reminder of the simple joys in life, especially around the holidays.