Entertainment

Families looking for Christmas break activities in New Caney and the surrounding East Montgomery County area will have a familiar holiday tradition to look forward to this winter, but with a new location. A Holiday to Remember returns December 26, 2026, through January 4, 2027, bringing 10 days of ice skating, an ice slide, bumper cars on ice and holiday attractions to the new Caney Pines Convention Center in Valley Ranch.

Presented by the East Montgomery County Improvement District (EMCID) and its sponsors, the annual event gives families a chance to enjoy winter activities without traveling far from home. For residents of New Caney, Porter, Kingwood, Splendora and nearby communities, it is an opportunity to make the most of the school holiday break, spend time together and celebrate the season even after Christmas Day has passed.

This year's event also introduces visitors to the Caney Pines Convention Center, a new addition to the growing Valley Ranch area that is expanding the community's options for entertainment, gatherings and special events.

Ice Skating, Ice Slides and Winter Fun at A Holiday to Remember 2026

The centerpiece of A Holiday to Remember is its ice skating rink, where children and adults can lace up their skates and enjoy a winter activity that is not always easy to find in Southeast Texas. Skate rentals are included with admission, and visitors can pick up their skates at the Skate Shack before heading onto the ice.

For those who prefer something a little faster, the event's ice slide offers a chance to climb aboard a tube and glide downhill. The attraction is designed for repeat rides, making it a popular option for families with children looking for something different to do during the holiday break.

Bumper cars on ice add another twist to the experience, allowing participants to spin, slide and bump their way around a frozen surface. Even family members who choose not to participate can enjoy watching the action from the sidelines.

Visitors can also explore the event's Winter Wonderland, featuring holiday lights and festive scenery. The decorated displays offer families opportunities to take photographs, enjoy the seasonal atmosphere and make a few more holiday memories before the decorations come down for another year.

With several attractions in one location, A Holiday to Remember offers an option for families searching for things to do with kids near New Caney, Porter and Kingwood during Christmas break.

Special Ice Skating Theme Nights and Noon Year's Eve Celebration

Along with its regular attractions, A Holiday to Remember will host three themed skating nights featuring different musical styles. Each theme night is scheduled from 8 to 10 p.m., giving visitors an opportunity to enjoy the rink with a soundtrack that fits their musical tastes.

The 2026 theme night schedule includes:

• Monday, December 28: Christian Music Night, 8 to 10 p.m.

• Tuesday, December 29: Tejano Night, 8 to 10 p.m.

• Wednesday, December 30: Country Night, 8 to 10 p.m.

Families with younger children can also celebrate the arrival of 2027 without staying up until midnight. On Thursday, December 31, A Holiday to Remember will host Noon Year's Eve from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., offering a daytime option for families who want to mark the occasion together.

The event's operating hours vary throughout its December 26 through January 4 run. Visitors are encouraged to check the official A Holiday to Remember schedule before making plans.

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A New Holiday Setting at Caney Pines Convention Center in Valley Ranch

This year's celebration comes at an important time for East Montgomery County, as the new Caney Pines Convention Center prepares for its December 2026 opening in the Valley Ranch Entertainment District.

Located at 21654 Valley Ranch Parkway in New Caney, near Interstate 69 and the Grand Parkway, the approximately 210,000-square-foot convention center is one of the area's largest recent public development projects. Construction began in January 2025, and the $159 million facility is designed to accommodate everything from community celebrations and graduations to trade shows, conferences, weddings and sporting events.

The venue includes a nearly 55,000-square-foot ballroom and exhibition hall capable of accommodating more than 6,000 attendees, approximately 20,000 square feet of meeting space, outdoor gathering areas and an attached parking garage with more than 800 spaces. Oak View Group has been selected to manage the facility, with Melanie Granado named general manager in September 2026.

The name Caney Pines was selected to recognize the area's logging history, surrounding woodlands and the early settlement that became New Caney. For longtime residents who remember when much of Valley Ranch was undeveloped, the convention center represents another significant change in a community that has experienced substantial residential and commercial growth.

EMCID expects the convention center to attract visitors, support local businesses and create employment opportunities. District projections estimate approximately $1.73 billion in additional spending within its boundaries over 30 years, although those figures are forecasts rather than guaranteed economic results.

Hosting A Holiday to Remember at Caney Pines gives local families an opportunity to experience the new facility during its opening season. It also introduces a venue that residents may return to for school celebrations, community events and other gatherings in the years ahead.

A Holiday to Remember Ticket Prices, Free Admission Options and Appreciation Days

Families planning to attend A Holiday to Remember in New Caney can choose between purchasing activity admission or simply visiting to enjoy the festive surroundings.

According to the event's official ticket information, walking around and enjoying the holiday sights is free, and visitors who are not skating, riding the ice slide or participating in bumper cars do not need to purchase a wristband.

For those who want to participate in the attractions, admission includes a two-hour skating session and unlimited access to the ice slide, bumper cars and Winter Wonderland.

EMCID is also offering special Appreciation Days recognizing several groups who serve the community. Eligible visitors can receive 30% off one admission with a valid ID on their designated day.

• December 26: First Responders Appreciation Day

• December 27: Military Appreciation Day

• January 2: Healthcare Appreciation Day

• January 3: Teachers Appreciation Day

The discount applies to one admission per qualifying ID, with additional guests paying regular admission.

Families can review admission options and purchase tickets through the official A Holiday to Remember ticketing page.

Sensory-Friendly Hours, Free Parking and What Families Should Know Before Visiting

Organizers have included sensory-friendly hours for guests who may prefer a quieter environment. During the first operating hour Monday through Friday, music will be turned down and decorative lighting will remain static, allowing families to enjoy the attractions with fewer sensory distractions.

There is no minimum age requirement for ice skating, although available skate sizes generally range from toddler size 8 to adult size 14. Parents bringing younger children may want to confirm appropriate skate sizing and attraction requirements before visiting.

Free parking is available in the Caney Pines Convention Center parking garage, making the event accessible to families traveling from surrounding Montgomery County communities. Cash, debit cards, credit cards, Apple Pay and Google Pay are accepted.

Visitors should dress appropriately for ice skating and check the event's policies regarding outside food, beverages and rink safety before arriving.

For families who make a tradition of finding something special to do together during the days between Christmas and New Year's, A Holiday to Remember offers another opportunity to enjoy the season close to home. This year's move to Caney Pines Convention Center adds something new to that experience, giving East Montgomery County residents a chance to celebrate the holidays while getting acquainted with one of the community's newest gathering places.

Residents are encouraged to check the official event website for schedule changes, ticket availability and additional details as opening day approaches.

Stay tuned to My Neighborhood News for more holiday events, family activities and community development updates throughout New Caney, Porter, Kingwood and the greater East Montgomery County area.

By Tiffany Krenek, My Neighborhood News 

Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.

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