Spirit of the Season

Celebrate the season with 5 Texas holiday road trips from Houston

The holidays are upon us once again. In addition to hitting up the usual Houston haunts like Discovery Green's ice skating, the Galleria tree lighting, or The Nutcracker at The Wortham, consider taking a holiday road trip to really get into the spirit of the season.

These five spots feature everything from an old fashioned Christmas tree farm to a life-sized ice sculpture display. A short drive away from Houston (well, mostly) these Texas towns will have you feeling merry and bright in no time.

Elgin
The Elgin Christmas Tree Farm, located approximately two-and-a-half hours west of the city, is the perfect family-friendly road trip destination. There’s nothing better than picking out that 8-foot Frasier fir, enjoying the petting zoo with the kids (alpacas, donkeys, and goats, oh my!), and sipping hot chocolate while strolling around the property. Don your brightest holiday sweater and listen to Christmas carols on the drive. The farm is open for Christmas tree sales beginning November 23.

Galveston
From the 45th annual Dickens on the Strand to ice skating at Moody Gardens to the downtown lanterns and lights display, Galveston is holiday central this December. The hour-plus drive is great for a spur-of-the-moment trip; make a weekend of it at The Treemont, get those last-minute stocking stuffers from the Strand, and indulge in some holiday cheer by sea.

Grapevine
A road trip to Grapevine, the official Christmas Capital of Texas, is sure to be a family favorite. Head to "Ice! at Gaylord Texan" for an impressive display of life-sized ice sculptures, ice slides, and an over-the-top light show. Prefer something a bit less chilly? Downtown’s historic Palace Arts Center Theatre offers classic Christmas movies and holiday concerts throughout the month of December.

Gruene
Historic Gruene, some three hours from Houston, is its most charming during the holidays. Spend a day shopping at the Gruene Christmas Market, sign up for the 26th annual Jingle Bell Run on December 8, or catch the town’s Christmas tree lighting. Swing by Gruene Hall, the oldest dance hall in Texas, to end a (holi)day well spent.

McAllen
McAllen, approximately a six-hour drive from Houston, is the furthest road trip destination by far but worth it for the true holiday enthusiasts. The city is famous for the McAllen Holiday Parade, the largest illuminated holiday parade in the state.

Galveston shares its holiday spirit by the seashore.

Historic Galveston Island/Facebook

Galveston shares its holiday spirit by the seashore.

families kids festivals vacation holidays

all routes lead to rome

New nonstop flight connects Houston with Rome for the first time

Photo courtest of Houston Airports

Houston Mayor John Whitmire listens as Jim Szczesniak, Director of Aviation for Houston Airports, discusses the addition of ITA Airways at IAH.

Thinking of a Roman holiday? The good news for Houstonians is that George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) will begin offering direct, nonstop flights to Rome starting next spring. It will be the first time IAH and Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO) in Fiumicino, Italy have connected nonstop.

“We welcome ITA Airways to Houston, as it reflects our city's prominence on the global stage," said Houston Mayor John Whitmire in a press conference held on Tuesday, December 2. "The first ever route between Houston and Rome will strengthen our business, diplomatic, and cultural ties with Italy. It will also bring more visitors to experience Houston's vibrant culture, world-class healthcare, and diverse industries."

Starting May 1, 2026, ITA Airways will offer three flights a week between Houston and Rome, expanding to five flights a week beginning June 1. Houston is ITA's ninth North American destination.

“Nonstop service to Rome is a defining moment for Houston and a direct result of the strength and credibility of our airport system. This route will bring new visitors, new investment, and new business opportunities into our region,” said Jim Szczesniak, director of aviation for Houston Airports. “It expands Houston’s presence in Europe and proves that disciplined, strategic growth at Houston Airports delivers measurable economic impact. Strong airports don’t just move people. They shape markets, expand opportunity and help define a city’s place in the world.”

Flights will be made via a Airbus A330-900. The model is renowned for its comfort on long flights, including ergonomic seats, ample personal space, and a quiet cabin. Appropriately, many of the interior cabin components are made in Italy and reflect an elegant European design.

Houston billionaire Tilman Fertitta, currently serving as America's ambassador to Italy, also welcomed the new route that connects his hometown with his current job.

“As a Texan and as the U.S. Ambassador to Italy, I’m thrilled by ITA’s new direct route between Houston and Rome," Fertitta said. "It strengthens the economic links that drive mutual understanding and shared prosperity. It was great working with ITA Airways CEO Joerg Eberhart, Mayor John Whitmire, and all the partners that helped make this possible.”

The new route to Rome continues the international expansion that has been happening at IAH over the last several years. Last year, the airport announced new non-stop flights to recent vacation hotspot, Puerto Escondido, Mexico. It was part of Houston Airports' goal of making Houston the gateway to America ahead of the FIFA 2026 World Cup. Now, it looks like IAH will be welcoming Italian soccer fans, as the routes open up just in time for the sports event next summer.

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