Maud Marks Library Unveils Full Lineup of Free Holiday Events in December for Local Families
As the holiday spirit takes hold across Oak Park Trails, the Maud Smith Marks Branch Library has unveiled a packed December 2025 event calendar brimming with family fun, creative crafts, literacy programming, and community engagement — all free and open to the public.
Located just minutes from Oak Park Trails at 1815 Westgreen Blvd, Katy, TX 77450, the Maud Marks Library serves as a beloved hub for learning, enrichment, and connection. Part of the Harris County Public Library system, the branch is known for its award-winning programming that ranges from early literacy and technology training to dynamic seasonal celebrations. This December, the library continues that tradition with festive events for every age.
Family-Friendly Holiday Events in Katy
One of the most anticipated events is the Holiday Open House on Friday, December 19, from 2:00–4:00 PM, themed around the beloved holiday story, The Polar Express. Families are invited to enjoy live holiday music, a ride on the Polar Express train, gingerbread cookie decorating, crafts, and holiday treats — all free of charge.
For even more holiday magic, come back the next day for “The Polar Express” Movie Day on Saturday, December 20, from 2:00–3:30 PM. Watch the heartwarming film while enjoying cookies and hot cocoa with loved ones.
In addition, the Friends of the Maud Marks Library will host their monthly Book Sale on Saturday, December 6, from 10 AM–4 PM, with a special preview for members on Friday, December 5, from 4–5:30 PM. Shoppers can find hardback and paperback books, children’s titles, and more at bargain prices.
Youth and Teen Programs Designed for Engagement
The library offers a robust lineup of programs for teens and tweens:
- Teen Advisory Board Meeting: Tuesday, December 2, 4:15–4:45 PM
- Teen Craft Time (follows TAB): Tuesday, December 2, 4:45–5:30 PM
- Tween Craft Time (Grades 4–5): Thursday, December 4, 4:30–5:30 PM
- Lego Challenge (Grades 4–12): Tuesday, December 9, 4:30–5:30 PM
- Tabletop Games + Chess (Grades 3–12): Thursday, December 11, 4:30–5:30 PM
- Teen Anime Club: Tuesday, December 16, 4:30–5:30 PM
- Pokémon Club (Grades 3–12): Thursday, December 18, 4:30–5:30 PM
Younger children can also look forward to Wednesday Wonders craft programs on December 3, 10, and 17 from 4:30–5:30 PM. December 10 features a special holiday ornament-making session — arrive early, as spots are limited.
Early Literacy and Storytime Favorites
The Maud Marks Library continues to promote early literacy with weekly storytime favorites:
- Preschool Storytime (Read & Rhyme): Tuesdays at 10:15 AM
- Preschool Explorers: Tuesdays at 11:15 AM
- Patty Cake Infant Storytime: Wednesdays at 10:15 or 11:15 AM
- Toddler Storytime: Thursdays at 10:15 or 11:15 AM
All storytime programs will pause for the holidays between December 22 and January 5.
A special “Nutcracker” Sing & Move class by Classical Sing Move Play will replace preschool storytime on Tuesday, December 2, at 10:15 AM, introducing young children to Tchaikovsky’s famous score through interactive movement.
Adult Workshops, Book Clubs, and Tech Training
Adults can enjoy their own programming, including:
- DIY Felt Animal Ornaments Workshop: Tuesday, December 9 at 2 PM
- Booked This Afternoon Book Club: Thursday, December 11 at 2 PM (featuring The Christmas Bookshop by Jenny Colgan)
- Excel Data Analysis Class: Wednesday, December 10 at 6:30 PM
- Laser Cutter Orientation: Monday, December 8, 6–8 PM
- 3D Printer Orientation: Friday, December 12, 4–6 PM
- Cricut Machine Orientation: Wednesday, December 17, 6–8 PM
All tech orientation classes require advance registration and provide access to MakerCentral equipment at other HCPL locations upon completion.
Therapy Dogs Help Kids Build Reading Confidence
On Saturday, December 13, from 11:00 AM–12:00 PM, the library will host its popular “Read to a Dog” event in partnership with Paws for Therapy. Children ages 5–11 can sign up to read to a trained therapy dog in a relaxed, nonjudgmental setting, helping them gain confidence in their reading skills. Spots are limited and sign-up begins 30 minutes prior at the front desk.
Plan Your Visit
The Maud Marks Library will close early at 5 PM on December 24 and remain closed through December 28 for the Christmas holiday. Regular hours and programming will resume afterward.
Whether you're looking to spend quality time with your kids, sharpen your tech skills, find a great read, or meet fellow book lovers, Maud Marks Library is ready to welcome you this December. For the full calendar or to register for select programs, visit hcpl.net or call 832-927-7860.
For families in Oak Park Trails, Maud Marks Library continues to be a special gathering place — celebrating literacy, creativity, and togetherness this holiday season and beyond.
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.
