Courtesy Cody Duty

Costumes, candy, and carving pumpkins are now behind us. So, what to do with the kids now? With Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s eve on the horizon — with lots of holiday school breaks — you might be looking for something to entertain the young’uns and keep them from underfoot while you shop and wrap presents, cook, clean, and decorate.

Well, look no further than our own Children’s Museum Houston (CMH), often ranked as the number one children’s museum in America. And while its slogan is “a playground for your mind,” come holiday season it’s also a playground for body and soul.

Great Gobler Fest
Nov. 23 – 29

Be grateful for this event that has everything to keep young minds and bodies busy. It kicks off with a Turkey Jam where they can dance and play turkey games. Followed by a Turkey Pardon Day where they can get up close and personal with a real live bird and watch a parade in the turkey’s honor. There’s something called pumpkin chunkin’, then the day after Thanksgiving Santa makes his opening appearance, followed the next day by a cozy campfire-theme complete with hot cocoa spoons you make to take home as well as other fun crafts, camp songs and stories. Then the final day of the fest celebrates the season of caring with friendship bracelets and community service projects benefiting local children and families.

Courtesy Cody Duty

Polar Palooza
Dec. 19 – Jan. 4

Texas may have turned blue, but this corner of Museum Plaza is turning white, as in snow. Yes, real snow! Bring your mittens and dig in for some chilly fun along with multicultural events and festive activities throughout the museum including a ride on the Polar Express (Dec. 19), a performance of The Nutcracker (Dec.21) by Intempo Dance group, as well as Hanukkah, Las Posadas, and Kwanzaa celebrations.

Now – Jan. 10
Seasons of Sharing

Enjoy this exhibit of sights, sounds, and stories about the multicultural festivals celebrated at year’s end. A delightful way of learning and embracing the world’s traditions and religions.

Rockin’ New Year’s Noon
Dec. 31

Yes, it’s New Year’s Noon (not eve) because the little ones, and some older ones, too, can’t stay up till midnight. Come celebrate before naptime at Houston’s longest-running family New Year’s celebration with a countdown and confetti, music, dancing, and a puppet show. Families with children ages zero to five, or those who prefer a quieter environment, can enjoy a sensory-friendly celebration in Brown Auditorium, featuring DJ Tyler, special performances and its own confetti countdown.

For times and tickets see here, along with special holiday hours. Also, it’s important to note that the museum requires an adult to accompany children 16 and under at all times. And really, why would you want to just drop them off when you’ll want to be there for all the fun too.

by Marene Gustin