A Top Houston Shopping Center Turns Into a European Christmas Village: Special Discounts and Perks Await On One Special Night

Marche de Noel, now in its second year, has become a signature shopping and dining evening in Rice Village.

Santa comes to Rice Village Thursday, December 7, 2017.

A '53 Studbaker Starliner rolls for Marche de Noel, Rice Village.

Marche de Noel, now in its second year, has become a signature shopping and dining afternoon-into-evening in Rice Village, one with European flair.

One of Houston’s favorite outdoor shopping areas is transforming into a Christmas wonderland. Just in time to deck the halls, Rice Village will make the season bright with its annual Marche de Noel. Updated date: rescheduled to Thursday, December 14.

The annual festive event, returning for its second year, showcases the iconic shopping center’s stores and restaurants with European roots. Strollers can expect a display of vintage cars, culinary treats, and jolly old St. Nick, who will make the joyous scene. The man in the red suit will be taking your Christmas lists in the 2500 block of Rice Boulevard and carolers will set the tone for the merry shopping, strolling, and noshing afternoon into evening.

In a special offering for vintage car lovers, a handful of golden oldie wheels will be stationed at 2500 Rice Boulevard. These include a 1953 Studebaker Commander Starliner, a Nash Coupe, and a red Cadillac ambulance from 1968 that will be dressed up in Christmas lights.

Meanwhile, Woven Arts at 2400 Rice Blvd., conjures a Turkish bazaar complete with complementary Turkish coffee, teas, and delicacies.

Jingle and mingle at El Meson, the unique Spanish restaurant with Cuban flair, that will be giving away free tapas at the bar with a purchase of a glass of wine. Other Village dining spots getting into the holiday spirit include La Taste, with cookies and baked goods for shoppers, and pastry destination Flo Paris, featuring a menu of holiday desserts at special prices.

Early shoppers will be rewarded with gift cards to some of the Village’s signature merchants including Beautique, Village Clothier, El Meson, Woven Arts, Zoe’s, and Flo Paris. Music will also be part of the mix: violinist Max Bae sets up shop at 2514 Rice Boulevard, while DJ Altruist will spin a contemporary take on Christmas music at 2500 Rice Boulevard.