November News You Can Use
Housing Stats • Homestead Exemption • Holiday Events
HOUSTON HOME SALES INCH UP IN OCTOBER
Houston area home sales sparked in October on a month-to-month and yearly basis. Single-family home sales were up 8.1 percent compared to a year earlier. On a month-to-month basis, single-family homes priced $150,000 – $250,000 had the greatest increase in sales last month. Inventory is at a 4.0-months supply, and the average days on the market is up to 59.
BUYING A HOME BEFORE DECEMBER 31st Can Save you Money!
If you are in the market for a new home, purchasing prior to December 31st, 2019 can save you money. Buyers that close before the end of the year are qualified to apply for a homestead exemption at the beginning of 2020. If you do not close by December 31st, you cannot apply until January 2021.
Please remember, Leslie Lerner Properties can also save you money by offering flat fee listings and rebated commissions.
>>>Learn More
HOUSTON AREA HOLIDAY EVENTS
PERFORMING ARTS
A Christmas Carol – November 15 – December 29, 2019 – Alley Theatre
A Ghost Story of Christmas returns this year with a re-telling of Charles Dickens’ classic story, which follows Ebenezer Scrooge’s journey with the three ghostly spirits that visit him on Christmas Eve. A Christmas Carol instills a powerful message about redemption and the spirit of the holiday season.
Willie Nelson and Family – November 18, 2019 – Smart Financial Centre
With a six-decade career and 200 plus albums, this iconic Texan is the creative genius behind the historic recordings of “Crazy”, “Red Headed Stranger”, and “Stardust”.
Houston Ballet’s The Nutcracker – November 29 – December 29, 2019 – Wortham Theater
The holiday season reignites with Stanton Welch’s joyous production of The Nutcracker. Celebrate the season with beloved characters from this timeless classic set to Tchaikovsky’s splendid score. in holiday revelry as she journeys from her home on Christmas Eve, through a magical Christmas tree, and into the whimsical Kingdom of Sweets, accompanied by her Nutcracker Prince.
A Musical Feast: All-Strauss Thanksgiving – November 29 – December 1, 2019– Jones Hall
Hear two of the most soul-stirring works ever written in Strauss’ poignant musings on life, death and transcendence. Then sparks fly and spirits soar as you feel the racing pulse of history’s most legendary ladies’ man and encounter a loveable trickster who always gets the last laugh.
The Hip Hop Nutcracker – December 4, 2019 – Smart Financial Centre
The Hip Hop Nutcracker is a holiday mash-up for the whole family. It re-imagines Tchaikovsky’s classic score through explosive hip hop choreography. A dozen all-star dancers, on-stage DJ and an electric violinist bring the traditional Nutcracker story to life in contemporary New York City. This evening-length show celebrates love, community and the magic of the holiday season.
Disney Junior Holiday Party On Tour – December 6, 2019 – Smart Financial Centre
Disney Junior Holiday Party! is a dazzling musical wonderland where children and their families can sing and dance along to their favorite Disney Junior songs plus Holiday classics with their favorite Disney friends, including Mickey & Minnie Mouse, the Puppy Dog Pals, Vampirina and many more, plus a special visit from Santa Claus!
A Pentatonix Christmas 2019 Tour – December 21, 2019 – Smart Financial Centre
The acapella group, also known as PTX, has become a staple of the holiday season, with popular Christmas songs such as “White Winter Hymnal,” “That’s Christmas to Me,” and “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town.”
Elf – The Musical – December 7 – 22, 2019 – Sarofim Hall
Based on the cherished 2003 movie, Elf – The Musical, tells the story of Buddy, a human accidentally transported to the North Pole as a baby. Unaware that he is actually human, Buddy’s enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth.
Very Merry Pops – December 13 – 17, 2019 – Jones Hall
Former Principal Pops Conductor Michael Krajewski returns, joining Symphony and Chorus for a sparkling concert filled with all the merry sounds of the season. Hear a host of festive favorites, including the Houston Symphony commission Glad Tidings, a musical and narrative telling of the Christmas story packed with classic carols like What Child is This?, Silent Night and Joy to the World.
“Twas the Night Before Christmas – December 14, 2019 – Jones Hall
Envision sugar plums, flying reindeer and a sleigh filled with toys as the classic holiday story ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas comes to life with live music and narration, plus sing along to festive favorites like “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.” If you sing loudly enough, you might even receive a visit from a very special man in a red suit…
Handel’s Messiah – December 20 – 22, 2019 – Jones Hall
This Christmas, be moved by Handel’s ever-glorious setting of the greatest story ever told. The Houston Symphony, chorus and guest soloists join forces to fill Jones Hall with joyous refrains and exultant arias, including the powerful “Hallelujah” Chorus.
The Elf on the Shelf – A Christmas Musical – December 27, 2019 – Smart Financial Centre
Inspired by the beloved box set The Elf on the Shelf®: A Christmas Tradition, this touring stage production will give families an exclusive glimpse into the magical world of Santa’s North Pole through indelible song and dance numbers and a heartwarming tale about Christmas spirit.
Trolls Live – December 28 – 30, 2019 – Hobby Center
Get ready for another hair-raising adventure when Poppy, Branch and their friends come to life on-stage in Trolls LIVE!, their first ever live tour! The journey begins when the Trolls’ Hug Time is unexpectedly put at risk. Knowing that the only way to save it is by doing what the Trolls do best, Poppy hosts a toe-tapping, Trolls-tastic show, jam-packed with all the epic music, glitter, humor and happiness only the Trolls can create.
Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker – December 28, 2019 – Smart Financial Centre
Step into a simpler time filled with sweet dreams and Christmas magic. With world-class artists, over 200 dazzling costumes, stunning sets, towering puppets and soaring birds, don’t miss your chance to ring in the holidays with this acclaimed Christmas extravaganza.
RUN / WALKS
BakerRipley Houston Turkey Trot – November 28, 2019 – Galleria Area
The BakerRipley Houston Turkey Trot will include three separate races in the Uptown Galleria area designed to appeal to runners of all ages and experience levels. Winners of the certified timed events will be given awards based on event and age category. By running in any of the race events you are supporting nearly 600,000 men, women, children and seniors earn, learn, and belong.
2019 Jingle Bell Run – Sugar Land – December 7, 2019 – University of Houston – Sugar Land Campus
2019 Jingle Bell Run – The Woodlands – December 14, 2019 – Rob Fleming Aquatic Center
The Arthritis Foundation’s Jingle Bell Run is the original festive race for charity. It’s where you can strut your stuff in your favorite holiday costume and FEEL GOOD about DOING GOOD. Together, we’ll jingle all the way to a cure – and have a fantastic time every step we take! Bring a team of friends, family and co-workers to run or walk. Get your jingle on and spread the Spirit of Yes: Yes to having fun and celebrating what you love. Yes to living life to the fullest. Yes to conquering arthritis for good.
Santa Hustle – December 15, 2019 – Moody Gardens
If you are a Christmas lover, enjoy overplayed holiday music, devouring candy and cookies, and joining in on an epic after party then grab your favorite friends and family and register for the 2019 Santa Hustle® Galveston 5k, Half Marathon and Kids Dash presented by Jimmy John’s! Proceeds benefit the Galveston County Food Bank.
HOLIDAY FESTIVALS, EXHIBITIONS, EVENTS & FAMILIY ACTIVITIES
Nutcracker Market – November 14 – 17, 2019 – NRG Center
Houston Ballet Nutcracker Market has become the signature holiday fundraising shopping event in Texas that kicks off the holiday season! It is a one-stop shop featuring over 260 merchants, offering unique items for everyone, including home décor, gifts, food, apparel, toys, accessories and more. It is the best way to shop and give back during the holidays, as proceeds from each admission and special event ticket that is purchased, plus 11% of all the merchandise you buy, goes back to Houston Ballet Foundation.
Galleria Ice Spectacular and Tree Lighting – November 9, 2019 – The Galleria
The Galleria is hosting their 31st annual Ice Spectacular, a Houston tradition, featuring a day of holiday fun. At 6PM, don’t miss the lighting of our 55-foot tall tree and an incredible ice skating show.
The ICE at Discovery Green – November 15, 2019 – February 2, 2020 – Discovery Green
The ICE at Discovery Green® powered by Green Mountain Energy uses recycled water from Kinder Lake to create a 7,716 square-foot ice skating surface, making it the largest outdoor skating rink in the Southwest.
Festival of Lights – November 16, 2019 – January 12, 2020 – Moody Gardens
Brighten up the holidays with a tradition for families and groups alike. A mile-long trail with more than one million lights and lighted scenes take you around the Moody Gardens property with spectacular views Galveston Bay. Enjoy the area’s only outdoor skating rink, concession areas with hot chocolate and festive food, holiday buffets, live entertainment and more.
Ice Land: Pole to Pole – November 16, 2019 – January 12, 2020 – Moody Gardens
A skilled team of master ice carvers has taken 2 million pounds of ice to create your festive journey AROUND THE WORLD! Travel from Russia and Egypt to China and beyond to see how other cultures celebrate the season. Glide from the top of the Eiffel Tower on the Giant Ice Slide where you might catch a glimpse of Australia, Holland, Rio or even Santa Claus. You can even take a moment to chill out by the icy with a festive drink inside the Shivers Ice Bar that has transformed into a log cabin decked out for the holidays where you can cozy up to a cool fireplace made completely of ice!
Brew Lights – November 21, 2019 – Houston Zoo
Enjoy Zoo Lights without the kids! Stroll through the Zoo with your favorite Saint Arnold brew, glass of wine, or spiked hot chocolate during this 21 & up event. Your Brew Lights ticket includes two free 12 oz pours of Saint Arnold beer! Last entry at 9:00 p.m.
Zoo Lights – November 23, 2019 – January 12, 2020 – Houston Zoo
The Houston Zoo transforms into a winter wonderland, filled with brilliant displays of colorful lights and festive holiday music.
Frostival – November 22, 2019 – The ICE at Discovery Green
Frostival is a one-night extravaganza that marks the opening of the ICE at Discovery Green.The annual park-wide celebration features ice carving demonstrations by Reverend Butter and DLG Ice Factory, ice sculpture photo opps, skating at The ICE powered by Green Mountain Energy® and more.
70th Annual HEB Thanksgiving Day Parade – November 28, 2019 – Downtown Houston
The Houston Thanksgiving Day Parade began in 1949, when Santa arrived at Union Station and rode his sleigh to the downtown Foley’s. Since then, the Thanksgiving Day parade has gone through a few changes but today, it remains a 70-year-old holiday tradition showcasing the Houston community and entertaining parade-goers lining the streets on Thanksgiving morning.
Uptown Holiday Lighting – November 28, 2019
r, over 300 all-new 20-foot holiday trees will welcome visitors to Uptown in grand fashion, spanning the length of Post Oak Boulevard from the West Loop to Richmond Avenue.These custom artisan-fabricated holiday trees, each adorned in 249 individually controllable LED lights, feature an amazing integration of lighting technology to create a stunning multi-colored light show that will dance along the Boulevard.
Galveston Holiday Lighting Celebration – November 29, 2019 – Hotel Galvez
Hotel Galvez invites guests and the community to celebrate the start of the holidays with the Official City of Galveston Holiday Lighting Celebration. Festivities begin at 6 p.m. and include a special appearance by Santa Claus, live holiday entertainment by local entertainment including the Galveston Ballet and the lighting of the hotel’s 35-foot Christmas Tree on the front lawn. During the event, the hotel collects donations for the Salvation Army of Galveston County.
Mayor’s Holiday Celebration and Tree Lighting – November 30, 2019 – Hermann Square at City Hall
Ring in the season with the 100th Annual Mayor’s Holiday Celebration and Tree Lighting Presented by Reliant, an NRG Company, in the heart of downtown Houston. The spectacular event is a holiday tradition of music, Santa, fireworks and family fun. A towering Holiday Tree, glowing with energy efficient LED lights, shimmering ornaments and a stunning star topper will light up the streets of downtown Houston this holiday season. The event takes place in Hermann Square at City Hall from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. and is free and open to the public.
Holly Jolly Jingle – December 5, 2019 – Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
A holiday concert tradition that highlights the best and brightest orchestras and student musicians from across Conroe ISD – and a whole lot more! Don’t forget caroling, performances in the plazas and everything you could possibly hope for to help get ready for the Holiday season!
2019 Houston Heights Holiday Home Tour – December 6 – 7, 2019 – Houston Heights
This 30th edition of the annual event takes the theme “These are a few of my favorite things…” and as such, each of the 5 featured homes will showcase a unique assortment of antique holiday decorations that remind their owners of the season.
Dickens On the Strand – December 6 – 8, 2019 – Galveston
The annual holiday street festival, based on 19th-century Victorian London, features parades, non-stop entertainment on four stages, new additions like Tiny Tim’s Play Land, Shopkeeper Skills Village, and roaming characters throughout the festival. Costumed vendors peddle their wares from street stalls and rolling carts laden with holiday food and drink, Victorian-inspired crafts, clothing, jewelry, holiday decorations, and gift items.
Christmas in the Park – December 7, 14, 21 & 28, 2019 – George Ranch
Travel through Christmas pasts and explore the customs and decorations of 100 years of Texas history.
Christmas Village at Bayou Bend – December 12 – 30, 2019 – Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens
Discover an immersive Christmas experience at beautiful Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens. A dazzling bridge brings you into a winter wonderland featuring thousands of lights and activities for all ages throughout the 14-acre estate. Fun, holiday-themed tours of Ima Hogg’s historic mansion feature live actors, theatrical effects, and Christmas decorations. You’ll find lots more to see and do.
Lights in the Heights – December 14, 2019 – Woodland Heights
Stroll along the pedestrian friendly route while enjoying a variety of sights ranging from nostalgic, twinkling white lights to eclectic, colorfully lighted scenes. Listen to the seasonal sounds of Christmas carols, jazz bands, and more, playing on the front porches, driveways, and yards of our neighbors.
Campfire Christmas – December 14 & 21, 2019 – George Ranch
Journey back in time to experience Christmas celebrations of the 1830s through the 1930s! This is a family-friendly holiday evening tour that culminates with cowboy songs, stories and hot cocoa around the campfire.
Cirque Joyeux Noel – December 20 – 30, 2019 – Moody Gardens
Enjoy a magical journey from There to Here in the company of musical and stage royal couple, the award-winning Texas thespians Linda Leonard & Bill Jenkins in an exhilarating and joyful celebration of the Holidays around the World: Lone Star Circus’ all-new CIRQUE JOYEUX – with a galaxy of awe-inspiring circus stars.
