Mayor's Holiday Celebration

Tonight, we decided to attend the Mayor's Holiday Celebration. We were on the fence about going the entire week. We weren't sure we wanted to deal with the crowds. We weren't sure how Andrew would handle the loudness of the fireworks. We weren't sure how much fun it was going to be. But after talking it over with Daddy this afternoon, we thought we would try it. Andrew's been so into Christmas this year. And he's been asking for more fireworks since Fourth of July.

We made plans to meet Daddy at the Metro station at Wheeler Street after driving up from League City so we can avoid dealing with trying to find parking in Downtown and make it even more fun for Andrew. We didn't have to wait for the Metro for too long and we were on our way. Once we arrived at our stop in Downtown, we deboarded and walked a few blocks to City Hall. There was a huge crowded already gathered. The celebration started at 6pm, but we purposely planned on arriving just a little before 7pm so we wouldn't have to wait too long for the lighting of the tree and fireworks show that were scheduled for 7pm (which is one of the reasons we decided to come...I mean, how often will fireworks go off that early in the night?!)

We drudge our way through the crowds trying to find a place to stand and watch. On the way, we passed the Reliant Energy booth where they were handing out Santa Claus hats with blinking lights. I grabbed one for Andrew and he was excited about wearing it! Then, we found a little open grassy area with a good view of the tree. It was about fifteen minutes before 7pm so we had some time to kill. Thankfully, they had singers performing and Andrew enjoyed some people watching. Andrew even started dancing and clapping to Love Train by the OJays (he's listened to it many a time before).

Then, the time was upon us! There was a countdown and once the tree was lit, Andrew clapped and oohhed. Immediately afterwards, the fireworks started. Andrew was entranced! The fireworks were really low and thus, really close to us. I wasn't sure if Andrew was going to be scared or if it was going to be too loud for him. I had told him that if it got too loud, he could cover his ears and he did it once for a minute or two. He really watched the show very intently. The fireworks actually lasted longer than I had thought. But once it was over, we made our way out fighting the crowds and walked back to the Metro station. We headed home and put the little guy to bed.

It was a fun evening and I am glad we decided to go after all. Andrew seemed to really enjoy it. Maybe we will just have to go back next year!