River Oaks Christmas Lights — Attraction in Houston

What a great way to enjoy Christmas lights during this holiday season in the comforts of your car. I found this free event on social media and thought this was a fun and socially distant event during this pandemic. We came the day after Christmas just some time after sunset. Apparently, we weren't the only ones with this idea in mind. Obviously, the traffic here was pretty bad on a Saturday night. But, the upside was that the cars moved slow enough for us to take pictures of all the pretty holiday lights. I've got to say, River Oaks does it big. It's like holiday lights on crack. So beautiful and extravagant. We thoroughly enjoyed it. My favorites from the light displays were the tree wrapped lights, especially the ones that were wrapped all the way up, including all the tree branches; the spherical and star lights; and of course, the gorgeous hanging tree lights. Just magnificent. It truly felt like Christmas and the holidays driving through these streets.

Some things to point out, though. The main River Oaks Boulevard street was packed with cars going north. But, my suggestion is to take a drive down the less crowded smaller streets in River Oaks, namely Chevy Chase Drive, Delmont Drive, and Inwood Drive. The other thing about the smaller streets is that they have ample parking. So, if you truly wanted to stop to take pictures at a particular home you like, you can do that and then go back to your car afterwards. You can then return to River Oaks Boulevard going south from Inwood Drive to enjoy the remaining lights, since it's going to be less crowded going down this direction.

From their event page, I think they stated that most of these lights won't come down until after New Year's Day. So, you still have time to enjoy the beautiful light displays. I think if you go on a weekday night, it won't be as crowded. Also, going early just after sunset may also prevent running into crowds of cars. This was my first time coming here, and I freaking loved it. Come and check them out if you haven't done so yet. You...

Rude tour guide on Mister McKinney's River Oaks Christmas LightTour. All adults must provide their own personal email and cellphone #, not just 1 for all members of the same household (though supposedly not for marketing). When I questioned this he later approached 2 members of my party separately to ask if I "was gonna be a problem" and 1 had to vouch for me to allow me on the bus. Mandatory tips of at least 20% were collected to begin the tour. He asked for guests to like his page and when he singled me out by name I said "we'll see" since I wanted to see what it was like 1st. After pointing out the owners of many mansions and one we wouldn't see some questions were asked about if we would see the homes of some particular people and he said he didn't take requests, it was a set route, but no requests were made, just questions. He pointed out a high rise and some famous residents and I asked about Former President Bush and he said he couldn't know everything about everyone and I was only allowed 1 more question. Returning to the parking lot he asked for a show of hands for who had learned anything or liked the tour. When I sat quietly he called me out by name and asked pointedly if I hadn't learned anything. Don't give him your money. Do a horse-drawn carriage ride, look up maps and drive it yourself, or look up where to park...

The River Oaks Neighborhood Christmas decorations are an absolute spectacle and the perfect way to close out the holiday season in style. Known for its stunning homes and manicured lawns, River Oaks transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland every December, and it never disappoints!

The streets are lined with twinkling lights, grand displays, and elegantly decorated trees that evoke the magic of Christmas. Each home seems to compete for the most breathtaking design, with themes ranging from classic white lights to whimsical, colorful creations that will leave you in awe.

For a romantic date night, drive through the neighborhood or, even better, take a leisurely stroll to fully immerse yourself in the holiday spirit. Bring a hot cocoa to sip on while you marvel at the glowing arches, reindeer sculptures, and nativity scenes.

The ambiance is simply enchanting and sets the perfect mood for a memorable evening with your loved one. It’s a peaceful, festive escape that captures the joy and beauty of the season. Whether you’re a local or visiting Houston, make this a must-see—it’s the ultimate way to end the year with...