Arts & Culture • Entertainment • Holiday

Three Pre-Planned Holiday Date Nights

The holidays are known for overtly romantic gestures, and while we can’t exactly re-create the picture-perfect, snow-filled atmosphere like in The Holiday, we can give you ideas for the perfect date that some would describe as a night of pure Serendipity.

For A Night of Sugar Plum Fairies

The Main Event: The Nutcracker

Tchaikovsky’s ballet is one of our favorite holiday traditions, and Houston Ballet Director Stanton Welch’s opulent production is one of the most splendid ever staged. There’s no need to be a fan of ballet (we hear you, men!), because there is absolutely something for everyone in The Nutcracker. And the classic story of a fairy reunited with her prince is sure to melt even the most frigid heart.

Channel your more elegant side with a romantic dinner at Brasserie du Parc. We suggest starting with the French delicacy, Escargot, paired with a glass of champagne. For dinner, try their Duck Leg Confit, which will keep your stomach from growling throughout the ballet. After dinner, stop by Phoenicia Specialty Foods to grab a few of their tasty macaroons (remember, The Nutcracker has a plethora of characters based on sweets, so you’ll want to feed your sweet tooth beforehand.

For A Night of Literary Genius

The Main Event: A Christmas Carol

Not feeling the holiday spirit? Upset about the fact that Highland Village put up their Christmas décor before Halloween? Sick and tired of all the pumpkin spice? We hear you. This theatrical production of the Charles Dickens’ classic will be sure to turn things around, and we promise – it’s much more exciting than the version you read in school.

In honor of the Ghost of Christmas Present, start your evening off with oysters at Prohibition Oyster Bar (if you can’t remember the reference, you’ll soon find out at the play!). Make your way to Bravery Chef Hall for a British dinner a la Charles Dickens at Atlas Diner. There are three bars located within the food hall, so you’ll have a plethora of options when it comes to choosing a festive drink.

For A Night Filled with Mariachi and Remembrance

 

The Main Event: El Milagro del Recuerdo

The world premiere of this mariachi opera is a prequel to the smash sensation, Cruzar la Cara de la Luna (being a prequel, you won’t be lost if you haven’t seen it!). Set during Christmas in Michoacán, Mexico, El Milagro del Recuerdo explores the themes of traditions and familial bonds while the characters deal with life-changing decisions and dreams of something more. There’s no requirement to understand Spanish, as the English translation will be projected during the opera.

The western coastal region of Mexico to which Michoacan belongs is known for some of the country’s most famous stews, one of which is Pozole. Local Foods’ Chicken Pozole is sure to warm up any winter day and a perfect pre-show appetizer. Next, stop by Irma’s Southwest for their famous pork carnitas, followed by a traditional Mexican cocktail at The Pastry War, Downtown Houston’s very own Mezcal bar.