I want to tell you about  3 cool things to do in Houston this week, to get you into the Christmas spirit.  The mayor’s  lighting of the official Houston Christmas tree, outdoor skating and a free art exhibit.

What's even cooler is that all 3 of these activities are happening in close proximity to each other,  in downtown Houston.

The Cool Globes Art Exhibit

  If you haven't seen the 50 super-sized globes downtown,  I have 5 good reasons why you should take the time to carefully check them out.

  • They carry a timely message about what ordinary citizens like you and I  can do to combat global warming. 

  • They can inspire individuals and community leaders with ideas on how to create a cooler planet.
  • Houston is one of only a handful of cities where these unique pieces of art will be displayed.
  • They are nearing the end of their Houston appearance.

  • They  have clues on them that could win you a trip to Switzerland.

You still have a few more days to visit them before Cool Globes: Hot Ideas for a Cooler Planet heads to Geneva, Switzerland. Check out the Cool Globes official website to find out more details on how to win that trip to see them in Switzerland!

The Mayor’s Holiday Celebration

The annual lighting of the Christmas tree by the mayor is the Christmas party that signals the official start of the Christmas holiday season in Houston. Party goers will be entertained
  by multi-Grammy award winning singer-songwriter,  Regina Belle this year.

 The  festivities happen Friday, December 4, 2009, on the upper plaza at City Hall, 901 Bagby from 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

Ice Skating at Discovery Green

Two of the 3 cool things to do in Houston, can be enjoyed while visiting Discovery Green. Outdoor ice skating is back!

 You don't have to wait for Lake Houston to freeze-over anymore, to go skating. There's a rink downtown that's frozen solid and ready for you.

Last year over 100,000 people came out to skate and it's becoming one of the most popular holiday activities in Houston. Discovery Green will host the outdoor ice skating rink again this holiday season through MLK Day.

If you want to find more free events, free boat tours in Houston and other interesting things to do this holiday season,  visit Midtownlive blog.