Houston Dog-Friendly Guide to the Holidays

December 8, 2023

Cute pitbull in front of pink christmas tree in dog friendly store

The holiday season in Houston is one of the most joyful times of the year! From photos with Santa to holiday shopping, here are top dog-friendly events that will get you and your pup into the holiday spirit! Enjoy and happy holidays! 

Home for the Holidays in Old Town Spring

Doodle in a down stay in public

From November 11th, 2023 to December 24th, 2023, experience holiday magic in Old Town Spring! Known for its historic atmosphere, Old Town Spring features 100+ small, family-owned businesses perfect for holiday shopping. Witness holiday lights, tons of family-friendly activities, and photos with Santa every weekend. If you love shopping locally, Old Town Spring is for you! There are many dog-friendly stores or your pup can accompany you simply to experience the holiday vibes of this town. Loose Caboose BBQ has a dog-friendly patio, perfect for dinner after a long day of shopping.

Explore City Place’s Gingerbread Village 

Starting on November 28th, 2023 until January 7th, 2024 from 6 am – 11 pm, step into a life-sized Gingerbread Village at City Place located at 1250 Lake Plaza Dr, Spring, TX 77389. Walk your dog down a trail of giant candy canes, gingerbread men, cookie trees, and more as you’re transported into your very own gingerbread world. At the end, there is a 16-foot-high gingerbread house and a 12-foot-tall windmill. The gingerbread village is perfect for adorable photo ops and fun for the entire family!

Bernese Mountain dog in front of christmas tree decorations

Lights in the Heights 2023

On Saturday, December 9th from 6 pm – 9 pm, admire the stunning lights of Woodland Heights. Every year, the entire neighborhood celebrates the holiday season by closing off streets and going all out with holiday decorations. Some homes host private parties and some will have musical performances on their porches. This event is free and many people frequent area bars and restaurants after the festivities in the neighborhood are over. All dogs are welcome to join their owners to see the beautiful lights!

Otaku Winter Arc Food & Anime Festival at Karbach Brewing Co.

On December 16th & 17th, Karbach Brewing Company located at 2023 Karbach St Houston, TX 77092 is hosting a celebration of Asian culture. Admission to the event is free and grants you access to shop over 100 different food, drink, anime, and retail vendors. Feast on Asian street food, boba tea, noodles, baos, eggrolls, and so much more! There will be a Sumo tournament, cosplay contests, all-day entertainment, and plenty of photo ops! Your dog is welcome to join you for the fun as Karbach is dog-friendly. 

Dog sit stay in front of santas in dog friendly store

City Lights in Downtown Houston 

This holiday season, Downtown Houston will be featuring 11 magical holiday villages, a holiday bus tour, and more! Every day until Sunday, December 31st from 5 pm – 10 pm there will be holiday festivities downtown. Walk through a Winter Wonderland along Bagby Street, experience the Sugar Plum Plaza, and fall in love at the Mistletoe Square. Dogs cannot go on the bus but they can accompany you for many of the outdoor activities downtown. 

Paws & Claus at PetSmart 

On December 16th and December 17th, 2023, get a free photo taken with your pup and Santa at participating PetSmart locations. Find a PetSmart store near you and get your free pic! 

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