The Lighting of the Doves Festival is a long-standing tradition in The Woodlands that signifies the start of the holiday season in the community. Symbolizing peace during the holidays, the ceremonial illumination of the giant doves has attracted thousands of visitors each year.
The Festival includes traditional and international performances, showcasing the cultural diversity of The Woodlands and holiday traditions celebrated around the world. Featuring snow play areas, vendor booths, children’s activities and strolling entertainment, Lighting of the Doves culminates with a special appearance by Santa Claus arriving by sleigh down The Woodlands Waterway and a dazzling fireworks display.
Festival Activities
Balloon Art - Free
Craft Activities with The Woodlands Children's Museum - Free (while supplies last)
Face Painting - Free
Live Entertainment on 2 Stages
Strolling Entertainment
Snow Play Areas and Snow Slides - $5 wristband required for access. Wristbands can be purchased onsite at the event with cash or credit card. Please be advised if paying with cash, change will not be available.
Schedule of Events*
Celebration Stage
3 to 5 p.m. - TBD
5 p.m. - Live Music by D'Luna (Variety)
7 p.m. - Holiday Greetings, Santa's Arrival, Lighting of the Doves & Fireworks
8 p.m. - Event Concludes
Festival Stage
3 to 6:20 p.m. - TBD
6:20 p.m. - Ice Carvers
7 p.m. - Stage Dark for Santa Festivities at Celebration Stage
*All times and entertainment subject to change.
Free parking will be available at the orange, yellow, blue and white lots at 2002 Timberloch Place. Other designated parking areas include the Town Center Parking garage and Gold Lot. Additional parking areas throughout The Woodlands Town Center include limited, free curbside parking along Lake Robbins Drive, Waterway Avenue, Waterway Square Place and Timberloch Place. Paid covered parking is available at the 24 Waterway Parking Garage (located at the corner of Fountains Plaza and Lake Robbins Drive), the Waterway Square Parking Garage (between Fountains Plaza and Woodloch Court) and the surface parking lot along the corner of Waterway Avenue and Timberloch Place.
Parking is strictly prohibited at the South Regional Library and Community Center, and parking is not permitted in the Market Street surface lots and curbside spaces. Towing is enforced.
ADA parking is available in the Green Lot off Riva Row and Timberloch Place. Guests must have a valid placard or plate for access to this parking lot.
Coolers, picnic baskets, blankets and lawn chairs are permitted. Glass is prohibited.
