Shoppers and holiday revelers will find a festive experience Dec. 12‑13 when the Houston Heritage Holiday Market opens on the Bagby Street patio and Connally Plaza while The Heritage Society presents its 62nd Annual Candlelight and Carols Tour, at 1100 Bagby Street.
The outdoor market is free to the public and runs Friday, Dec. 12, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 13, from 1 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Local vendors and artists will offer handcrafted gifts, holiday décor and specialty foods in an open‑air setting designed to showcase Houston creators and provide last‑minute shopping ahead of the evening carol performances.
“The market gives visitors a chance to support local makers while enjoying the warmth and music of the season,” said Alison Bell, executive director of The Heritage Society. “It’s a complete holiday evening: find a meaningful gift, meet the people who made it and then cross the lawn for the Candlelight and Carols Tour — the combination strengthens our community and makes holiday traditions more memorable.”
The Annual Candlelight and Carols Tour (photo courtesy of The Heritage Society)
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The Heritage Society’s Candlelight and Carols Tour, scheduled the same nights, fills the site’s historic buildings and grounds with lamplight, seasonal music, choirs, and guided presentations that highlight Houston’s past. Market organizers say the proximity and timing are intended to let visitors shop and eat before attending the tour or linger afterward to enjoy additional vendors and programming. The tour spans across three blocks.
Free parking for market visitors is available at 212 Dallas Street. Paid covered parking is located at 1200 Bagby Street. Attendees are advised to allow time for parking and to check www.heritagesociety.org for ticketing and additional tour details.
The two events aim to marry commerce and culture: the market channels holiday spending to small businesses and artists, and the Candlelight and Carols Tour offers a historic, communal celebration that echoes Houston’s seasonal traditions. Together they provide a family‑friendly outing for residents and visitors looking for locally produced gifts and a quintessential holiday experience.