Downtown Houston is set to sparkle this winter as Discovery Green kicks off its festive season with HAR’s Home for the Holidays, bringing ice skating, holiday lights, cultural performances, and family-friendly fun to the heart of the city. Running November 21, 2025 through February 16, 2026, the season promises magic for Houstonians of all ages.

Skate Under the Stars
Kinder Lake transforms into Houston’s only outdoor ice-skating rink, where guests can glide under the downtown lights while enjoying themed nights like DJ Skate Saturdays, Skating with Santa, Cheap Skate Mondays, Wine Down Wednesdays, and Kids Skate Free Thursdays. Tickets are $18 plus tax, including skate rental for 75 minutes, with proceeds benefiting the Discovery Green Conservancy. The Opening Night Celebration on November 21 invites the first 50 skaters at 5 pm to skate for free while debuting the H-Town Holiday Lights presented by PNC, a dazzling display by local content creator Frankie To-ong.

Fun on Ice – Bumper Cars and Valentine Spins
New this year, Bumper Cars on Ice lets visitors slip, slide, and spin across the ice from January 2 – February 16, 2026. No experience needed—just bring your sense of adventure. Special themed days include Galentine’s Day on February 13 and Valentine’s Day on February 14, perfect for friends and couples to skate beneath the stars.

Festive Experiences for Everyone
Beyond skating, Discovery Green’s HAR’s Home for the Holidays offers a lineup of seasonal events:

• Carols on the Green with Houston Grand Opera (December 13) fills the park with joyful holiday music.
• Holiday Flea by Night (Saturdays, Nov 22 – Dec 20) showcases local artists, makers, and vendors.
• Lunar New Year (February 15) celebrates Asian culture with performances by Lee’s Golden Dragon, Han Narea, Dance of Asian America, and more.
• Screen on the Green offers outdoor movies under the stars, featuring The Wild Robot, Home Alone – Quote-A-Long, and Sing!, accompanied by crafts, treats, and holiday activities.

Inclusive Fun and Special Discounts
Discovery Green welcomes all visitors, including skaters with disabilities, with dedicated Inclusive Skaters Night and non-motorized wheelchair access. Special discounts are available for Green Mountain Energy employees, HAR Homes and Rentals employees, and first responders and military personnel.

“HAR’s Home for the Holidays at Discovery Green is about bringing the community together to celebrate, experience something new, and make memories under the city lights,” said Kathryn Lott, president of Discovery Green Conservancy. “From skating and lights to music and cultural events, there’s something for everyone this winter.”

Plan Your Visit
Ice skating hours vary by day, with special hours for holidays and HISD school breaks. Tickets must be purchased online. 

Location: Discovery Green, 1500 McKinney St., Houston, TX 77010

Get ready, Houston—this winter, Discovery Green is the place to skate, celebrate, and shine!