A Houston’s Moms Guide to November 2016

Who else is excited it’s November?!? This may be my favorite month, and that may just have something to do with all things turkey, stuffing, casseroles, parties, and more. Oh, and fall clothes – send me all the vest, scarves, and booties, amiright? Except Houston didn’t get the memo that it is in fact NOVEMBER. Either way, even if we have to sweat through our peacoats, we’ve got you covered head to toe with super fun, family-friendly events this month. Let’s rock and roll, and I promise I won’t remind you how many shopping days you have left until Christmas. Deal? {Yeah, but you should probably get started on that list, though. Note to self.}

A Houston Mom's Guide to November 2016 | Houston Moms Blog

Weekends through November 13th | 10am – Sundown :: Dewberry Farm Fall Fun

Corn maze, pumpkins, and their signature Sliiide Mountain? Friends, if you haven’t visited this gem in Brookshire, you are missing out! It’s absolutely beautiful and screams everything fall! Those with young ones, don’t forget to stop by Little Farmersville with a special array of all things playground just for them. Children 2 and under are free, and you can snag tickets in advance here

November 4th | 2:30 – 8:30pm :: The Lights Festival Houston

Snag your ticket now for this one of a kind lantern light extravagnaza down in Baytown! Ticket prices include a lantern, marker, and key chain flashlight. Children under 3 are free, and kids 4-12 are just $5. 

November 4th | 5 – 10pm :: Houston Cheese Fest

Head on out to Hermann Square for the best artisan cheese that Houston has to offer! Sample all manners of grilled cheese, mac ‘n cheese, and specialties from all around our great city. Live music and adult beverages will also be available, PLUS 12 and under are FREE! 

November 4th | 7:30pm :: H-E-B Movie Night at Discovery Green

With fallish temps, we can’t think of a better way than to spend a night than on the beautiful grounds of Discovery Green catching The Good Dinosaur for free! Grab your blankets and lawn chairs, and don’t forget to arrive an hour early for activities and fun contests. Wine and beer will be available for purchase, along with other concessions.

November 5th | 10am – 2pm :: Kids 1st Saturday @ Breakfast Klub

Eat at one of Houston’s hot spot breakfast locales {hello, chicken ‘n waffles!}, and let your kiddos run wild with arts ‘n crafts, face painting, and inflatables!

November 5th | 9am – 1pm :: Kid Fish Fest 

The City of Pearland has partnered with the local Bass Pro Shop to provide a real fishing experience for your little anglers. Not only will they have the opportunity to fish, but they will also learn about the environment, conservation, and maybe pick up a tip or two to grab the big ones! Fishing is catch and release … and free!

November 5th | 10am – 5pm :: Touch-a-Truck & Model Train Festival 

Nobody does “Touch-a-Truck” better than south of Houston in Texas City. Tons of different vehicles will be on hand including monster trucks, cranes, and military vehicles. Plus, who can pass up a huge corn box, face painting, and more?

November 5th | 10am – 2pm :: iFest Live in Sugar Land

We absolutely love this celebration of international cultures in the heart of Sugar Land! Have your kiddos pick up a passport to “visit” the multiple different countries represented in this unique event. Of course, there will be live music and dancing – and don’t forget to check out the local restaurants providing international cuisine around the square.

November 4th & 5th | 9am – 8pm; 9am – 5pm :: Sugar Plum Market

Making spirits bright, the Sugar Plum Market sponsored by Fort Bend Junior Service League returns for their 16th year. Browse amongst 100+ vendors – featuring children’s clothing, home decor, jewelry for the mommas, and of course … FOOD! Check out their website for how you can get preview night tickets and general admission. Proceeds benefit local charities – win, win!

November 5th | Noon – 5am :: Day of the Dead at National Museum of Funeral History 

Celebrate Dia de los Muertos with NMFH, including breath-taking exhibits and beautiful artistry celebrating loved ones. Attendees are also encouraged to bring mementos of their loved ones to their altar which will stay on display throughout November. 

November 12th | 7:30pm :: iLuminate at Miller Outdoor Theatre

Using the power of light, this amazing performance combines spectacular music, dance, and high-tech effects to dazzle the audience. Their technology feats have been featured in numerous popular shows including the American Music Awards, The Ellen Show, MTV Video Music Awards, and more. Free tickets on the hill are available, tickets for the covered seating area will go on sale the day of the show between 10:30am and 1pm. 

November 12th  – January 8th | 6 – 10pm :: Moody Garden’s Festival of Lights

One of the area’s most time-honored traditions returns again! Enjoy over ONE MILLION lights and nightly live entertainment. Don’t forget to check out the new Arctic Ice Slide and the fantastic outdoor skating rink. Plus, check their website for Santa visits and holiday films for fun for the entire family. 

November 10th – 13th | {check website for times} :: The Houston Ballet Nutcracker Market

No November calendar would be complete without the Nutcracker Market! Moms, this one is for YOU! Grab your girlfriends, your wallet, and perhaps a cocktail, and spend the day shopping till you drop. This epic annual event is not to be missed. Plan your strategy and trip down in advance here. {NOTE :: No strollers are allowed in the market, so may want to plan for that babysitter now.}

November 14th | 10am – 3pm :: Explore Abilities Day 

We absolutely adore The Children’s Museum of Houston for so many reasons, and they’ve won us over with their new event designed specifically for children with learning disabilities. Families will be able to explore at their own pace and special modifications will be in place including extra signage, quiet rooms, ear defenders & sunglasses on loan, and specialists just for your children to enjoy the day. Bonus :: you can bring in your own snacks and drinks as the Fresh Cafe will be closed. Admission is $5 and free for members.

November 18th | 6 – 9pm :: First Down Dads Safari Party with the Houston Texans

For the Dads in your life! Bring your kids and your blankets for a night of animals and the movie Zootopia. Live exotic animals show begins at 6:30, with the movie showing following at 7pm. Also, have an opportunity to interact with the Texans Cheerleaders and jump on safari-themed inflatables. $25 per person and includes the price of admission, food, and beverages.  Register here!

November 19th | 9am – 1pm :: Bike Rodeo with the City of Pearland

Learn all about bike safety while having fun in Pearland. Ages 5-15 are invited to the Parks & Rec center in Pearland to gain knowledge about basic bike handling, ways to avoid accidents, and more. Please bring your own helmet and bicycle. 

November 19th – 20th | Sat {10am – 6pm}, Sun {10am – 5pm} :: Houston Via Colori Street Painting Fest

Head down to Hermann Square for this 11th annual epic street painting festival showcasing over 200 artists. Besides the amazing artistry, there is a family zone completely set up to cater to kiddos, including face painting, carnival games, chalk games, and even Top Golf activities. And we love that this event benefits The Center for Hearing and Speech as well! 

November 19th | 1 – 6pm :: Santa at La Centerra in Katy and Annual Tree Lighting

Grab your cameras and head out to Katy’s picturesque square when Santa hits the town. Don’t forget to hang around for the traditional tree lighting sponsored by Texas Children’s Hospital.

November 23rd | Pictures with Santa at The Children’s Museum of Houston

Can you believe it? Santa will be here in a MONTH! Grab your cameras and smart phones and make you way to CMH for a picture with the jolly guy before he heads back to the North Pole to ready the elves. 

November 24th | 9 – 11am :: H-E-B Thanksgiving Day Parade

You won’t want to miss this 67 year old annual tradition centered in the heart of Houston! This year’s parade will feature Olympians Simone Biles and Simone Manuel, among other hometown heroes. Spectator access is free along the parade route with ticketed access at the starting line. Come see the high-flying balloons, marching bands, and other thrillers as Houston kicks off the holiday season.

November 27th | 1 – 5pm :: Photos with Santa at the Sugar Land Town Square

Grab a free pic with Santa himself AND benefit the Fort Bend Rainbow Room at the same time. Representatives will be on hand to collect your new and unwrapped toys for their special Christmas project. Don’t forget to stop by Santa’s mailbox to send off your child’s wish list. {Hint :: For a $2 donation, you’ll get a return letter from the big guy!}


Hooray! November is going to be epic in H-town. We can’t wait to hear what you are looking forward to – let us know in the comments below! Happy fall-ish month and let’s all hope cooler temps prevail soon. Otherwise, I’ll see you out and about, and we’ll fist bump while sweating in our cute boots and distressed denim. 

And if that wasn’t enough, here are some other great resources!

The Ultimate Guide to Houston Photographers

Texans Win – Freebies and Deals

Best Coffee Shops in Houston

60 Family-Friendly Restaurants

Why You Need Cute PJ’s for the Holidays

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Meagan Clanahan
Meagan is a Dallas native who has lived in the Katy area for over a decade. She kicked a soccer ball all the way to Louisiana to attend college at her family’s alma mater of LSU, where she promptly fell in love with a Texas Aggie in Baton Rouge for an internship. After swimming back to Texas following Hurricane Katrina, Matt and Meagan fell in love with the Houston area and now couldn’t imagine living anywhere else. Following several years of infertility, their miracle twins Ryan and Quinn were born in June of 2010. She believes there is nothing better than a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio, a large Sonic Diet Coke, sushi take-out, Girls Nights Out, and a mindless book to curl up with. Besides playing chauffeur and catering to the whims of her children, Meagan also is the Co-Owner of Houston Moms Blog. You can keep up with Meagan at The Clanahan Fam and on Instagram @meaganclanahan!

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