Houston First Corporation (HFC), Houston Ballet and Houston Grand Opera (HGO) are excited to invite the public to participate in the 31th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony at the Wortham Theater Center.

The annual holiday tradition will feature the illumination of a beautiful Christmas tree with more than 19,000 dazzling lights and include performances by artists from Houston Grand Opera and appearances by costumed characters from the Houston Ballet’s The Nutcracker. In addition, the Kingwood High School Madrigals costumed carolers and Mariachi performers, under the direction of Joaquin Rodriguez with Multicultural Education and Counseling through the Arts (MECA) will welcome and treat guests to joyous holiday entertainment. Houston Public Media’s talk show host Ernie Manouse will emcee the event. Santa himself will make an appearance.

The event is free.

During the celebration, the box office will be open and guests can take advantage of a special day-of discount to Houston Grand Opera’s holiday, mariachi opera, El Milagro de Recuerdo.

The Houston Ballet’s Sugar Plum Fairy, Principal Karina Gonzales from The Nutcracker will wave her wand and light the 26-foot Christmas tree at approximately 12 NOON. The Sugar Plum Fairy, Nutcracker Prince and Santa will be available for pictures with guests attending the event.

Just outside the Wortham, Fish Plaza (Texas Avenue entrance) is host to Chimes, an interactive art installation, featuring 36 large light towers that come to life with lights and sound at the slightest breeze or touch of hand. Created and designed by: Collectif Blackbox, produced by Quartier des Spectacles Partnership and Spectra (Illuminart), premiered at the Fête des Lumières (2017). The one-of-a-kind display will be on view throughout the holidays.

The free event happens on Wednesday, November 27, 2019, from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM at the Wortham Theater - 501 Texas Avenue, Houston, TX 77002. Speakers will include Sylvester Turner, Mayor City of Houston, Brenda Bazan, President and Chief Executive Officer, Houston First Corporation, Perryn Leech, HGO Managing Director, and Jim Nelson, Houston Ballet Executive Director.

Event parking is available for $12, in the Theater District Parking Garage, which is accessible via Rusk Street, Capitol Street, Texas Avenue and Prairie Street. The Wortham Tunnel is available for easy access into the Wortham Theater Center.