Several holiday activities are planned in Houston, including a Christmas parade Saturday night in downtown Houston.
This year’s grand marshals are Eddie and Joanie Smith. The parade, which is hosted by the Houston Sorosis Club, begins at 6 p.m.
Winterfest: Hosted by the sorosis club, the first-ever Winterfest will be from 2-6 p.m. at Lone Star Plaza.
Live performances will include the Mahan Family of Hartshorn, Chester Herndon, sorosis kids’ carolers and band and choir performers. An open microphone session will be from 3-3:45 p.m. Anyone interested in sharing a talent or song can sign up before 2:45 p.m. that day.
Various booths ranging from World Vision and designer purses to Scentsy booths and crafters will be set up. Food vendors will sell funnel cakes, steak sandwiches and hot chocolate. Anyone interested in setting up a booth — except food sellers — can do so for $10.
Pictures with Santa Claus are planned from 2-4 p.m. at the Houston Optimist Community Center. Cost is $5.
The Houston High School chapter of the FFA will provide carriage rides through the historic downtown area. Donations will be accepted.
Miss Merrie Christmas contestants will be selling $5 caroling grams for the evening of Dec. 8. They are limited to the Houston city limits.
The Christmas tree in the plaza will be lit before the beginning of the parade.
Decorating contests: The Houston Area Chamber of Commerce said categories include residential, business, “best use of LED energy efficient lighting” and “best decorated residential door.”
To enter call, the chamber office at 417-967-2220 or email info@houstonmochamber.com
Christmas shopping spree: The chamber is giving away 10, $100 certificates. A drawing is Dec. 1, and the winners can redeem them at participating merchants.
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