Now that there’s a chance that you won’t spontaneously combust when meandering outdoors, it’s time to talk about what autumn brings to Houstonians — fall festivals.
6 Houston Area Fall Festival Picks
- King’s Oktoberfest in Pearland | Friday, October 2 to Sunday, October 4 – There are two hard and fast rules about hosting an Oktoberfest bash: Good German beer (spelled bier, of course) served in big manly mugs and some sort of al fresco folk music that includes an accordion. This event, possibly one of the most authentic gatherings auf Deutsch, ups the ante with good grub provided by the host, King’s Biergarten and Restaurant. Bavarian pig roast, pretzels, sausages and sauerkraut add to the ambience that includes a gladiator-style jousting competition. $10 general admission. VIP packages start at $40.
- October Wine and Sausage Trail | Saturday, October 3 to Sunday, October 11 – When too much beer happens (as though that could ever be possible), trade it for wine and you have the workings of this food grazing adventure at seven wineries in the Texas Bluebonnet Wine Trail. Begin with a commemorative wine glass and gallivant from vineyard to vineyard tasting sausage-inspired dishes paired with varietals from the region. Know your limits and bring a dry buddy. $35 individuals. $56 couples.
- Korean Festival at Discovery Green | Saturday, October 17 | FREE – If your exposure to Korean culture is limited to barbecue, Gangnam Style and that you’ve heard a rumor that Kim Jong-un is into Katy Perry, help is on the way. Discovery Green hosts, K-Fest, this year dubbed “Taste of Korea,” to showcase ancient folkloric traditions, present-day pop culture, food and martial arts demonstrations.
- 12th Annual Gulf Coast International Dragon Boat Regatta in Sugar Land | Saturday, October 24 and Sunday, October 25 | FREE – You don’t need to be experienced in the ancient Chinese art of dragon boat racing to participate in this colorful regatta. Grab 20 people, a drummer and a steer person and work on synchronicity over strength for a chance at glory. Though for those who prefer to spectate, plenty of cultural performances and live music will keep you entertained.
- Texian Market Days at George Ranch | Saturday, October 24 – The days of yore come alive at the George Ranch Historical Park in Richmond every year for this family educational experience. In collaboration with the Fort Bend County Museum Association, battle reenactments, interactive displays, games, home tours, livestock, costumed characters and vintage vehicles will compose a pioneer tableaux of what living was like before 365 Things to Do in Houston was around. $15 adults; $10 ages 5 to 15; ages 4 and under attend for free.
- Houston Cinema Arts Festival | Thursday, November 12 to Thursday, November 19 – Films about arts and artists take over the city for this year’s expanded festival that’s held at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, Sundance Cinemas, Aurora Picture Show, Rice Media Center and more. Not much is yet known about specific programming, so stay tuned for more intel on celebrity talkbacks, awards celebrations and, one of my favorite offerings, Cinema on the Verge, an initiative that presents experiments with the medium. Some events are free.
