Christmas cruising down the Buffalo Bayou

This might just be me, but I love saying the word 'bayou.' It could be because unless you live in the south, you never get an opportunity to say the word. And really, people living without a bayou have been missing out, because there's just something about saying "baaaa--youuuu" that is so fun.

So when I discovered that the Buffalo Bayou was offering Christmas cruises I had to check it out.

The rides are 30 minutes long and take place on their pontoon boats. But these aren't your regular everyday bayou rides. These ones are festive.

The boats are decked out for the season with decorations and a whole bunch of lights. But that's not all. There's also holiday music - Yay!!

There's only one drawback to the cruises; they only happen on three dates - November 29, December 13 and December 20.

So here's the deal: If you are looking for great family fun or a little festive romance - because nothing is more romantic than a moonlight cruise on the bayou - you have got to get there quick. They limit the boat rides to 20 people per trip and they don't take reservations.

Private tours are also available, so if you're looking for something to do as a family - call 713.752.0314 ext. 4.

BUFFALO BAYOU CRUISE DETAILS

When: November 29, December 13 and 20 - 4-8pm (weather permitting*)

Time: 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Where: Boat landing and pick up location is at Sesquicentennial Park at Preston and Bagby Street (in front of Mel Chin's stainless steel "Seven Wonders")

How much: $7 for adults and $5 for children (ages 4 -12) no strollers please. Cash only please

Parking: Parking is available in the Theater District parking garage and metered street parking

* Visit http://www.buffalobayou.org/ for cancellations due to weather.