Welcome to my Why I Love Houston Series, where I share my favorite Houston experiences and excursions. My goal is to make my hometown of Houston more accessible to the ever-changing mix of folks adopting our amazing city as their home base and reminding natives of the hidden gems throughout H-town.

Why I Love Houston…Lights in the Heights!

Lights in the Heights Sneak Peek – Norhill Esplanade

Lights in the Heights is a yearly tradition in my Woodland Heights neighborhood where we roll out the welcome mat to our fellow neighbors and the entire city to celebrate holiday decor in all its megawatt glory – from LED spectacles to luminarias lining the driveways. Whether you’re attending a house party like me or simply admiring from the sidewalk, there’s no better way to get into the holiday spirit! So mark you calendar for Saturday, December 12, from 6-9 pm. Be on the lookout for the towering palm trees decked out like candy canes on the corner of Michaux and Woodland, along with the glowing dinosaurs on the Norhill Esplanade.

Candy Cane Palm Trees

Pterodactyl Sighting on Norhill Esplanade

Practical tips for enjoying Lights in the Heights: This year’s route is on Euclid and Woodland, from Studewood to Houston Ave. Please be mindful if parking in the neighborhood as you will not be able to park on closed streets which are barricaded around 5 pm and re-opened at 9 pm. There are port-o-lets located on the Norhill Esplanade and along the route.

If you need a break from all the festivities, the Red Dessert Dive on Studewood is open until 10 pm and you can enjoy a glass of cocoa or wine with their decadent dessert selections. Be aware seating is limited in their cozy space. Antidote Coffee, also on Studewood, is a great spot for refueling during the festivities, especially for their cajeta latte!

Here’s to making spirits bright!

Kathlyn