Stories for December 2025Houston Style Magazine | Weekly Newspaper Publication Website

Houston Symphony Taps Rolanda Gregory as New Chief Marketing Officer

The Houston Symphony has appointed Rolanda Gregory as Chief Marketing Officer, bringing extensive arts, sports, and entertainment marketing experience to support audience growth and brand leadership beginning in 2026.

Judge Surendran Pattel: A Life of Service Shaping Fort Bend County’s Future

Judge Surendran Pattel’s re-election campaign highlights a life shaped by perseverance, inclusion, and service, reflecting Fort Bend County’s diverse communities and shared vision for empathetic, inclusive leadership.

Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center Launches Global Soccer Celebration Series Ahead of International Tournament

The Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center is launching a Global Soccer Celebration Series from April through July 2026, offering hands-on, family-friendly programs that blend soccer, STEM, and cultural exploration ahead of a major international tournament in Houston.

Nutcracker Infinity at Art Club: A Holiday Tradition Reimagined Through Light, Sound, and Wonder

Nutcracker Infinity at Art Club reimagines the beloved holiday classic as an immersive, multi-sensory experience, blending Tchaikovsky’s iconic score with light, technology, and contemporary art in Houston.

When Big Tech’s Thirst Threatens Our Health, We Must Demand Better

As massive data center expansion strains water and public health resources from Oregon to Ohio, experts warn that stronger safeguards and zero-water cooling technology are urgently needed to protect communities without sacrificing economic growth.

Texas Women’s Hall of Fame Gala 2025: A Night of Brilliance, Legacy & Texas-Sized Inspiration

The 2025 Texas Women’s Hall of Fame Gala in Houston celebrated trailblazing women, honoring the 2025 class and raising over $290,000 to support programs empowering women and girls across Texas.

A Living Legacy in the Third Ward: Rev. William A. Lawson’s Vision Rises Again Through New Senior Housing Expansion

WALIPP has broken ground on a $29.3 million expansion in Houston’s Third Ward, adding 102 affordable senior apartments that honor Rev. William A. Lawson’s legacy of community, dignity, and service.

Houston City College and Google.org Spark a New AI Era for Houston’s Future Workforce

Houston City College and Google.org announced a $2 million partnership to expand AI education, offering free training for educators and dual-credit opportunities for students, positioning Houston as a leader in technology-driven careers.

FIFAe World Cup™ Featuring Rocket League Kicks Off—Houston, Get Ready to Play Big on the Global Pitch

The FIFAe World Cup™ 25 featuring Rocket League kicked off in Riyadh, showcasing high-octane esports football and giving Houston a glimpse of the excitement coming with FIFA World Cup 26™ in 2026

H-E-B Expands Its Promise to South Houston with Joe V’s Smart Shop

H-E-B is expanding its Joe V’s Smart Shop concept to South Houston, investing $11.9 million in a 56,786-square-foot store to provide affordable groceries while supporting local economic growth.

Jasmine Crockett Rockets Into Texas History as Allred Exits Senate Race

Texas politics experienced a seismic shift as Colin Allred stepped aside, clearing the way for Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett to launch a history-making 2026 U.S. Senate bid amid a rapidly reshaping electoral landscape across Houston and the state.

In a World Full of AI, Be ‘Freaking Talented’

CJ Emmons, a Grammy- and Emmy-nominated vocalist and longtime principal singer for Dancing with the Stars, returns to Houston with a one-man show celebrating his 23-year career and the power of natural talent in an era of rising AI in music.

Leaders Esteem Christian Bible University Celebrates Visionaries at the 6th Annual Women Who Inspire & Courageous Man Award Brunch

Leaders Esteem Christian Bible University is hosting its 6th Annual Women Who Inspire & Courageous Man Award Brunch, celebrating visionary leaders whose faith-driven work is transforming communities across the world. This elegant Houston gathering honors women and men who embody excellence, service, and purpose, uplifting generations through their leadership and impact.

Crockett Launches 2026 U.S. Senate Campaign With Message of Voting Power and Opposition to Trump

U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett officially launched her 2026 Senate campaign in Dallas, emphasizing voter empowerment and challenging both Texas incumbents and former President Trump.

TDECU Welcomes Two New Leaders to Board as Credit Union Enters a New Era

TDECU has appointed Retired U.S. Army General Charles R. Hamilton and financial strategist Rushi Patel to its Board of Directors, strengthening the credit union’s strategic leadership as it expands technology, service, and community impact

Houston Cougars Take on LSU Tigers in 20th Kinder’s Texas Bowl at NRG Stadium

The 20th Kinder’s Texas Bowl kicks off December 27 at NRG Stadium as #21 Houston faces LSU in a Big 12 vs. SEC showdown.

Airbnb Unveils Historic $1M+ Investment to Elevate Houston Ahead of FIFA World Cup 26™

Airbnb invests over $1 million in Houston to boost sustainability, youth soccer, and lasting community impact ahead of FIFA World Cup 26™.

Mardi Gras! Galveston 2026 Doubles the Entertainment Lineup, Ushers In a New Era of Coastal Celebration

Mardi Gras! Galveston returns February 6–17, 2026, with star-studded music, dazzling parades, and Texas-sized Gulf Coast festivities for its 115th anniversary.

Jack Black & Paul Rudd Bring a Wildly Nostalgic, Joyously Unhinged Anaconda Adventure to Christmas Day 2025

The legendary Anaconda returns this Christmas, reinvented as a hilarious buddy-action comedy starring Jack Black and Paul Rudd.

Texas Southern University’s Global Future Expands: New NBEC Partnership Ignites Innovation, Cultural Exchange & Worldwide Academic Pathways

Texas Southern University partners with the National Black Empowerment Council to launch global academic and cultural opportunities for students.

Ring in the Holidays with Thompson San Antonio: A Luxe Winter Escape Wrapped in Texas Magic

Experience the magic of the holidays at Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk with “12 Days of Thompson” and a dazzling New Year’s Eve rooftop celebration.

Colin Allred Ends Senate Bid, Launches Run for Dallas’ 33rd Congressional District

Colin Allred ends his 2026 Senate bid and will run for Congress in Dallas’ newly drawn 33rd District, reshaping the Democratic primary race just before the filing deadline.

Houston Twist on a Classic: The Night Shift Before Christmas at Alley Theatre

“The Night Shift Before Christmas” is a heartwarming, humorous one-woman holiday show featuring Briana J. Resa as Margot, with a uniquely Houston twist on the classic tale.

Dexter McCoy Announces Run for Fort Bend County Judge, Challenges KP George

Fort Bend County Commissioner Dexter McCoy has announced his candidacy for County Judge, joining incumbent KP George and Democrats Christian Becerra and Ferrel Bonner in the upcoming race

TSU and NBEC Launch Global Academic and Innovation Partnership

Texas Southern University and the National Black Empowerment Council have formed a strategic partnership to expand global academic exchanges, cultural diplomacy, and innovation opportunities for TSU students and faculty.

All Aboard the Holiday Spirit: Union Pacific & UPVETS Roll Through Houston with a Joy-Filled Toy Drive Finale

Union Pacific’s UPVETS Houston/Gulf Coast Chapter celebrates the holiday season with Railroad Santa, a Toys for Tots train ride, and Locomotive No. 1943, showcasing veteran-led community service across Houston.

Chef Andrew Zimmern Shares the Recipe for Success with Houston City College – Culinary Arts

Chef Andrew Zimmern visited Houston City College to share wisdom and inspiration with culinary students, highlighting HCC’s role in shaping the region’s next generation of chefs and food entrepreneurs.

On the Ground, In the Community: A Ten-Year Journey with METRO’s Street Team

METRO’s Street Team celebrates a decade of offering real-time, rider-focused support across Houston, becoming a trusted bridge between the community and the transit system.

Small Businesses Lead U.S. Job Losses in November

Small businesses led U.S. private-sector job losses in November, shedding 120,000 positions amid economic uncertainty, according to ADP.

New Car Prices Expected to Exceed $50,000 in 2026

Average new car prices are expected to climb back above $50,000 next year, driven by higher production costs, consumer demand, and the popularity of larger vehicles.

Ghislaine Maxwell Plans to Represent Herself in Bid to Get Out of Prison

Ghislaine Maxwell plans to file a pro se habeas corpus petition seeking her release from prison, according to a recent court filing.

Inspector General Report: Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth Shared Classified Military Plans on Signal

An Inspector General report found that Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth risked exposing highly classified military plans by sharing sensitive information on Signal, raising concerns about operational security and handling of classified communications.

Trump Grants Full Pardon to Texas Congressman Henry Cuellar and His Wife Ahead of 2026 Reelection

President Donald Trump granted a full pardon to Texas Democratic Rep. Henry Cuellar and his wife, clearing bribery charges and allowing the congressman to continue his reelection campaign.

Celebrate the Holidays in Houston with Thompson Hotel’s 12 Days of Festive Fun and Luxe Staycations

Thompson Houston is celebrating the holidays with its annual 12 Days of Thompson featuring festive events, immersive experiences, and luxury staycation opportunities.

Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office Announces Spring 2026 Citizens Police Academy

Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office is accepting applications for the Spring 2026 Citizens Police Academy, an 11-week program offering an inside look at law enforcement operations.

Houston’s Balloon Museum Launches Pop Air: Art Is Inflatable – Interactive Holiday Exhibit Through April 2026

Houston’s Balloon Museum is hosting Pop Air: Art Is Inflatable, a massive interactive exhibit featuring 65,000+ sq. ft. of whimsical, large-scale inflatable art.

BISSELL Pet Foundation Hosts Holiday Pet Adoption Event at BARC in Houston

Reduced adoption fees and extended hours from December 1–15 help shelter cats and dogs find loving homes this holiday season

Find your perfect furry friend this holiday season at BARC during the BISSELL Pet Foundation’s Empty the Shelters® – Holiday Hope adoption event, December 1–15.

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. to Observe 119th Founders Day at Prairie View A&M University

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. celebrates its 119th Founders’ Day at Prairie View A&M University on December 7 with a special observance program open to the public.

The Woodlands® Resort Turns December into a Holiday Wonderland

Celebrate the holidays at The Woodlands® Resort with festive brunches, Santa experiences, and playful holiday cocktails throughout December.

Congressman Emanuel Cleaver II to Deliver Keynote at Prairie View A&M University Fall Commencement

Congressman Emanuel Cleaver II, PVAMU alumnus and longtime public servant, will deliver the keynote address at Prairie View A&M University’s 30th Fall Commencement on December 13.

Apple TV Unveils Holiday Special “The First Snow of Fraggle Rock”

Celebrate the holidays with The First Snow of Fraggle Rock on Apple TV, featuring Gobo, the Fraggles, and a special musical cameo by Lele Pons.

Houston Voters Shape the Future in the City Council At-Large 4 Runoff

Early voting is underway in Houston for the City Council At-Large Position 4 runoff—every vote counts ahead of the December 13 election.

Some Like It Hot Comes to Houston’s Hobby Center: Tickets on Sale December 5

Don’t miss the award-winning Broadway musical March 24–29, 2026 for a one-week limited engagement

Broadway’s smash-hit musical Some Like It Hot is coming to the Hobby Center for one week only, March 24–29, 2026.

A Post-Thanksgiving Reflection: Rediscovering Hope, Healing, and America’s Better Angels

This Thanksgiving, Holly Knoll’s legacy of bipartisan courage and collaboration reminds Houston and the nation that real progress comes from empathy, solutions, and working together across divides.

ICE CUBE SET TO IGNITE RED ROCKS WITH A 420 EXPERIENCE FOR THE AGES

Ice Cube, Big Boi, and Czarface take over Red Rocks Amphitheatre on April 20, 2026, for 420 on the Rocks, promising an unforgettable night of hip-hop history and culture.

Harris County Sports & Convention Corporation Elevates the Fight Against Exploitation with Powerful “No Trafficking Zone” Press Conference at NRG Stadium

Houston leads the nation in anti-trafficking efforts as NRG Park marks five years as a No Trafficking Zone, showcasing survivor-led initiatives, national partnerships, and community-driven protection.

Texas City Half Marathon Returns Dec. 6 — Volunteers Needed & Big Perks Await

Join the Texas City Half Marathon on December 6, 2025—run, volunteer, or cheer and be part of a Gulf Coast community tradition with perks that make giving back even sweeter!

A Dazzling New Era of Movement: UH’s “Emerging Choreographers Showcase” Returns With Bold Voices, Brave Visions, and the Many Brilliant ‘Colors of a Woman’

Houston’s next generation of dance makers takes center stage as UH debuts its bold and emotionally charged Emerging Choreographers Showcase, featuring the premiere of Kylie Jefferson’s powerhouse work Colors of a Woman.