Get a Nightlife This Week: September 25 to October 1, 2023

People playing cornhole at the Karbach brewery with Karbachtoberfest banners hanging around them
Karbachtoberfest rolls on with a weekend concert by the Suffers and German-themed fun | Courtesy of Karbach Brewing Co.

Find the can’t-miss events in Houston with our Day + Nightlife Guide from Monday, September 25 to Sunday, October 1, 2023.

Your favorite nightlife guide is back to cure your weekly FOMO. We’ve got you covered with our in-the-know list of art, music, and nightlife events happening all week long around Houston, from Monday through Sunday.

Day + Nightlife Guide in Houston This Week: September 25 to October 1, 2023

Ongoing

  • Fort Bend County Fair at Fort Bend County Fairgrounds | Thursday to Sunday | Ongoing – Be part of the 87-year tradition when the county fair rolls back into Fort Bend through Sunday, October 8. Have a blast on carnival rides, chow down at BBQ cook-offs, hear live music, check out a week of rodeo events, and more. $15 for ages 12 and up; $5 for ages 6 to 11; free for ages 5 and under. Season passes start at $50. Times vary.
  • Oktoberfest 2023 at Saint Arnold Brewing Company | Friday & Saturday | FREE – The spacious beer garden at Saint Arnold hosts high energy live music from Das Ist Lustig with Valina Polka, plus King and Queens of Oktoberfest contests, chicken dances, stein hoisting, glass boots and more. 4pm to 9pm.
  • The Riot Comedy Club presents Joey Avery at Rudyard’s Pub | Friday & Saturday – Across two nights, the Riot hosts this comedian on the rise who frequently tours with fellow comics like Andrew Schulz, Mark Normand and Trevor Wallace. Catch him during one of his three sets at the upstairs stage at Ruds. $20 and up. Times vary.
  • Karbachtoberfest Week 2 at Karbach Brewing Company | Friday to Sunday | FREE – The Spring Branch brewery keeps the celebration rolling with Friday night music from The Suffers; a Saturday of stein hoisting, chicken dances and keg races, with polka music, live DJ and The Mockingbirds Band; and Sunday wraps up with wiener dog races, a pup cup truck and pet vendors. Times vary.
  • Comedian D.L. Hughley at Houston Improv | Friday to Sunday – A legendary comedian, actor, and host of his weekday radio show, D.L. Hughley stops by the Improv for five sets across three nights. $100 for 2, and up. Times vary.
  • Chefs For Farmers at Autry Park | Saturday & Sunday – Now with an extra day for Houstonians to enjoy, the all-inclusive tasting event in River Oaks has curated a lineup of top culinary talent to showcase family farms throughout Texas. Expect immersive activations and live entertainment, wines from the top vineyards and craft cocktails, and excellent farm-fresh eats. $135; VIP available for $185. 1pm to 5pm.

Monday, September 25, 2023

  • Puppy Yoga at Galveston Bay Brewing – On the shores of Clear Lake, Galveston Bay Brewing hosts an evening yoga session with puppies! Swing by and donate new or gently used items, treat yourself to a brew, and consider adopting a new furry friend. $15. 6pm.
  • Trivia Night at Tapped Drafthouse & Kitchen | No Cover – The Spring drafthouse hosts a night of general knowledge and pop culture trivia, with prizes up for grabs. 7:30pm.

Tuesday, September 26, 2023

  • Jersey Shore Trivia at Little Woodrow’s Shepherd | No Cover – The Little Woodrow’s outpost near Washington Avenue hosts a night of trivia about Snooki, Pauly D and the rest of the Jersey Shore saga. 7pm to 9pm.
  • Loona in Concert at Smart Financial Centre – The newest iteration of K-Pop sensation Loona, dubbed Loona Assemble, debuts in a 10-city United States tour that brings them through Houston, marking a new era for the Korean girl group. $82 and up. 7:30pm.
  • Divino Niño in Concert at Axelrad | FREE – The psychedelic dream pop five-piece from Chicago takes to the outdoor garden stage at Axelrad, loaded with songs from their 2022 album, Last Spa on Earth. 8pm.

Wednesday, September 27, 2023

  • Todrick Hall in Concert at House of Blues – The iconic choreographer and singer, who’s appeared on RuPaul’s Drag Race, The Masked Singer, and as a runner-up on Celebrity Big Brother, Todrick Hall comes through Downtown with songs from his latest, Jim. $32.50 and up. 7pm.
  • Team Trivia at Big Owl Craft Brew House | FREE – The Heights taproom opens their every-other-Wednesday trivia night with general knowledge rounds that range from pop culture facts to creative thinking. 7pm.
  • Soda Stereo Tribute Band Rooftop Concert at Post Houston – Head up to Post’s Skylawn for a performance of classics from the Argentine rock band Soda Stereo, as covered by tribute artists Será Cero. $20. 8pm.
  • Becky G in Concert at Smart Financial Centre – Fresh off the release of her third studio album, 2023’s Esquinas, the hip-hop, pop, and reggaeton princess is bringing all the energy to Sugar Land when she pops through. $68 and up. 8pm.

Thursday, September 28, 2023

  • Guns N’ Roses at Minute Maid Park – The OGs of heavy metal rock and roll, GNR, are winding down their massive We’re F’N’ Back! Tour and are doing a show with ’90s grunge rock superstars Alice in Chains on the Astros’ home turf. $24 and up. 6pm.
  • Galveston Fall Fashion Show at Tremont House – Held in the Royal Ballroom of Downtown Galveston’s signature hotel, this fall fashion show will showcase the latest trends, styles and colors in a lively environment with music and entertainment. Proceeds will help support th emission of Unbound Now Houston, which fights human trafficking in Galveston County. $100 and up. 6pm to 9:30pm.
  • The Riot Comedy Club presents Rob Stant at Rudyard’s Pub – The Montrose comedy club hosts a night of laughs from Philly comedian Rob Stant, who delivers his observations on everyday life, his fiancé, and the world around us. $15 and up. 7pm.
  • Comedian Joe Dombrowski at Houston Improv – The one-time elementary teacher rose up in the comedy world after making an impression on Ellen with his spelling test prank on April Fools’ Day. Now, he brings his tales from the classroom to the Improv stage. $50 for 2, and up. 7:30pm.
  • Houston Musical Theater presents The Best of Rodgers & Hammerstein at Post Houston – Enjoy sweeping views of the Houston skyline while listening to this cabaret performing some of the most iconic songs of musical theater. You’ll hear selections from South Pacific, Oklahoma!, Carousel and more. $28. 8pm.

Friday, September 29, 2023 

  • Fall Exhibitions Opening Reception at HCCC | FREE – Houston Center for Contemporary Craft unveils its fall exhibitions; highlighting the sculptural work of objects made from the African blackwood tree in Tree of Life, and the colorful, large-scale textile work of Max Adrian in Ripstop. Current resident artists will also participate in open studios, with complimentary beer from Buffalo Bayou Brewing. 5:30pm to 7:30pm.
  • Moonlit Mingle: A Spooky Singles Social at MarMo Plaza – The plaza in Downtown Galveston hosts an early Halloween mixer where you can participate in a costume contest, try a hands-on mixology workshop, play haunted trivia, enjoy drinks and more while you make connections with others. Costumes are not mandatory but strongly encouraged. $20. 7pm to 9pm.
  • LetsDoThisHouston: Usher Night Light Bike Ride at 3rd Ward Tours – Cruise the streets of H-Town to a playlist filled with the hits of Usher. Rides take off from 3rd Ward Tours on Emancipation Avenue, heading through scenic areas of town. $11.50 and up; bike rentals available. 7pm to 9:30pm.
  • Ne-Yo in Concert at Smart Financial Centre – The Grammy-winning R&B musician is joined by Mario and Pleasure P for a night of the Champagne & Roses Tour in Sugar Land. $69 and up. 8pm.
  • Joji in Concert at Toyota Center – Supporting his 2022 album Smithereens, the Japanese singer-songwriter kicks off his Pandemonium Tour with its opening night in Houston. $39 and up. 8pm.
  • K-Pop Night at White Oak Music Hall – Dance to the hits of Blackpink, BTS, New Jeans and more at the K-Pop dance night at White Oak. $17 and up. 8pm.
  • Comedian Raanan Hershberg at the Secret Group – Known for high-energy sets on the talk show circuit and Comedy Central, comedian Raanan Hershberg grabs the mic at the EaDo comedy club for a one night–only show. $15 and up. 8pm.
  • Back to ’90s Party at Wakefield Crowbar | FREE – The Garden Oaks sand volleyball bar hosts a night of non-stop dancing featuring the hits of ’90s superstars like Spice Girls, Backstreet Boys, Britney Spears and more. 10pm.
  • Hozho DJ Set at Bauhaus – The melodark minimal DJ from Portugal takes to the decks of Downtown club, Bauhaus. $10 and up. 10pm.

Saturday, September 30, 2023 

  • Chopd & Stewed Festival at Post Houston – ChòpnBlọk is putting on this inaugural fest to showcase West African food and culture. The exciting new event will feature appearances by top culinary talent, including Dawn Burrell and Eric Adjepong of Top Chef fame, local stars Ope Amosu and Greg Gatlin, and a whole lot more. Plus, get access to the Culinary Village on the Skylawn, Òrékê Artisan Market, and an evening Sounds of the Motherland Independence Celebration on the eve of Nigerian Independence Day. $45 and up. 9am to midnight.
  • Houston Country, Folk, & Blues Festival at Heritage Place | FREE – The Downtown Conroe park hosts a full day of live music from Grammy-winning gospel group Endurance, country artist Bri Bagwell, blues from Mike Zito and Boogie Long, and a headlining set from Jonathan Tyler & Northern Lights. You can also browse a local vendor market, shop fresh-from-farm goods, enjoy delicious food and craft beer and wine, and compete in dozens of contests and attractions. 10am to 9pm.
  • Culinary Immersive Experience in Galveston – This all-day culinary experience sends participants through a deep dive of Galveston’s food scene, culture and history at multiple stops. You’ll visit the Strand, take in a jazz performance at Tremont House, go behind-the-scenes at Riondo’s with their renowned chef, enjoy a cocktail reception with live entertainment, and more. $350. 11am to 10pm.
  • Nigerian Belle Full Brunch at Axelrad – On the eve of Nigerian Independence Day, Kavachi Ukegbu curates a three-course meal that blends Nigerian staples with American favorites, complemented by a selection of Nigerian drinks at the vibrant beer garden of Axelrad. $50. Noon.
  • Oktoberfest at Urban South HTX Brewery | FREE – Strap on your Lederhosen and enjoy a day of Oktoberfest fun near Sawyer Yards with games like keg rolling, a mustard-eating contest and stein-holding competition, alongside dozens of flowing taps and German foods. 1pm to midnight.
  • The Wild Things Crafting Party at the Orange Show | FREE – Ahead of the Orange Show’s 42nd Gala in November, the broader Houston community is invited to join artists and explore their creativity by creating hand-made decorations at this crafting party. For this year, the public is invited to bring old trophies, ribbons and yarn, pliable wire, stuffed animals, and animal horns or antlers for the crafting. El Patio will supply eats for purchase in the afternoon, and Saint Arnold provides free beverages. 2pm to 7pm.
  • Art Ramble at Sawyer Yards | FREE – This first-ever event in Sawyer Yards invites everyone to walk through the open studios of more than 100 artists across five buildings, meeting with the creators and discovering unique works at a variety of price points. Expect local drink vendors, food, and music while you explore. 2pm to 7pm.
  • Oktoberfest at Eureka Heights Brewing Co. | FREE – Get down for the popular drinking holiday and enjoy eats like sauerkraut, pretzels and brats and well as live music, photo ops and games at the Heights brewery. 2pm to 7pm.
  • Bellaire Foodie Festival at Bellaire Civic Center – Dandelion Cafe, The Toasted Yolk, Lankford’s and Mandito’s are just a few of more than a dozen food vendors, joined by several breweries and wineries, that are slated to appear at this all-ages food festival highlighting Bellaire offerings. $20 and up. 5pm to 8pm.
  • KTX Oktoberfest at Typhoon Texas Waterpark | FREE – The Katy waterpark hosts a full night celebration with German-themed food and drink, live music and entertainment, contests, and traditional Bavarian brews. Free to attend; drink passes start at $15. 5pm to 10pm.
  • Salsa y Salud at Miller Outdoor Theatre | FREE – Take in a high-energy night of salsa performances, dance theater, visual arts and more at the annual event that will commemorate Miller’s 100th anniversary. 7:30pm.
  • Houston Pride Band: Ignite! at MATCH – Kicking off their new season, Houston Pride Band channels the energy and passion of fire and light for an electrifying evening that features a guest performance by drag king Hugh Stone. $15. 8pm.
  • Comedian Russell Peters at Smart Financial Centre – Seen in his Netflix specials, Notorious and Almost Famous, Russell Peters brings his Act Your Age World Tour to Sugar Land for a signature set. $44 and up. 8pm.
  • Brody x Devin DJ set at Noto Houston | FREE with RSVP – Reality TV star Brody Jenner and Devin Lecian join for a DJ set at East End’s Noto. 10pm to 2am.

Sunday, October 1, 2023 

  • Biergarten: Oktoberfest at CityCentre | FREE – Every Sunday afternoon, the Memorial-area shopping and dining destination hosts a biergarten tent with curated selections of beer and wine, where you can also catch screenings of the day’s football games for an American twist on the German holiday. Noon to 7pm.
  • Nigerian Food Festival at Royal Palace Event Center | FREE – This Alief food festival on Nigerian Independence Day is packed with traditional Nigerian dishes, desserts and drinks along with live music, dancing, art, performances and a vendor market. Limited free tickets; free for ages 14 and under. Noon to 7pm.
  • Oktoberfest at Ingenious Brewing Company | FREE – The Humble brewery welcomes the month of October with a celebration of fun games, a costume contest, German grub from GastroCraft, competitions, trivia and more. Noon to 9pm.
  • Sofi Tukker DJ Set at Clé Day & Night – The Midtown club hosts a day party with House duo, Sofi Tukker, spinning through the afternoon and into the evening. $60 and up. 2pm to 8pm.
  • Table to Stage with Chris Shepherd at Stages – The second installment of renowned Houston chef Chris Shepherd’s intimate talk series welcomes the mind behind Lucille’s and the renovated Eldorado Ballroom, Chris Williams. The one-on-one conversation will be followed by an audience Q&A. $150 and up. 7:30pm.
  • Comedian Joe Wong at the Secret Group – The deadpan comic, who also holds a biochemistry PhD from Rice, headlines a night at the EaDo comedy club, bringing his observations on pop culture, life and stereotypes as a Chinese American. $40 and up. 8pm.

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Justin Jerkins
A longtime Houstonian, Justin Jerkins always keeps an eye out for what's ahead on Houston's horizon while serving as Editor-in-Chief of 365 Things to Do in Houston. When he's not passing along the latest events, destinations and hidden treasures in H-Town, he loves diving into the city's food scene, shopping local and learning about Houston's rich history.