SATURDAY
October 7, 2023
- 5K Beer Run at Galveston Island Brewing – Benefiting Galveston Island Humane Society, the race starts and ends at Galveston Island Brewing Co., and goes along a fast and flat course along the Seawall. There will be a post race party with food trucks and 16-oz beers in an included finisher glass. $55 and up. 8am.
- 16th Annual CAC Duck Race at Margaritaville Lake Resort – Travel to the Conroe resort for this fundraiser benefiting the Community Assistance Center. You can adopt one of the nearly 10,000 rubber ducks that will tumble, splash, and slosh down the lazy river. $5 and up. 10am.
- Nigeria Cultural Parade & Festival at Root Memorial Square | FREE – Celebrate Nigeria’s Independence Day at the annual parade that begins at Root Memorial Square, just outside of Toyota Center. Dish on jollof rice, and enjoy afrobeats and a cultural procession through the streets of Downtown. 10am to 4pm.
- Hands on Houston: Inflatable Balloon Characters & Bouncing House at HCCC | FREE – Learn more about balloon-character sculpting, inspired by Houston Center for Contemporary Craft’s current exhibition Max Adrian: RIPSTOP!, and explore various shapes and designs by inflating and twisting your own balloon. Those between 3 and 12 can also jump around the bouncy house. 11am to 3pm.
- Northside Festival at University of Houston–Downtown | FREE – Following the Tour De Northside bike ride, you can check out local vendors selling a variety of unique items, enjoy live music and a community art project, and even take salsa lessons at this fun community festival. 11am to 6pm.
- Korean Festival at Discovery Green | FREE – Celebrate the vibrant culture of Korea at this family-friendly event in Downtown. Expect Korean music, foods, performances, shopping and more. 11am to 9pm.
- Late to the Party Oktoberfest at Bad Astronaut Brewing | No Cover – There’s still time to celebrate Oktoberfest! Head to the Northside brewery for an afternoon of live music, a special festival menu from Ghosthand, and plenty of beer. Noon.
Nigeria Cultural Parade & Festival
Downtown
Saturday, October 7
Celebrate Nigeria’s Independence Day at the annual parade that begins at Root Memorial Square, just outside of Toyota Center. Dish on jollof rice, and enjoy afrobeats and a cultural procession through the streets of Downtown.
FREE | 10am to 4pm
- Poder Hispano at M-K-T | No Cover – The sprawling Heights district for dining and shopping hosts a special family-friendly market that highlights the cultures of Latin America through flavorful foods, arts and music. Noon to 4pm.
- The Banned Wagon at Kindred Stories | FREE – Celebrating Banned Books Week, this book wagon offers free copies of banned and challenged books in support of the freedom to read. Guests may select one free book (while supplies last) and then browse the Third Ward store’s wide selection. 1pm to 4pm.
- Lee Jamison: Ode to East Texas Discussion & Signing at Pearl Fincher Museum of Fine Arts | FREE – The Huntsville artist spent more than a year wandering through East Texas, sketching, drawing and journaling. His wanderings led to Ode to East Texas, which he’ll talk about and sign at the Spring museum. Copies of the book are available for purchase in the museum shop. 2pm.
- Peppa Pig’s Sing-Along Party at Smart Financial Centre – The beloved piggy comes to town in an interactive sing-along that should delight children and adults. Expect much dancing and lots of smiles. $40 and up. 2pm.
- Fighting: Ukrainian War Photographers Exhibition Tour at Silver Street Studios | FREE – FotoFest curator Max Fields and the Consul General of Ukraine in Houston, Vitalii Tarasiuk, host a tour of this exhibition which features photography captured by 16 journalists serving on the frontlines of the Russo-Ukrainian War. 2pm.
- Utopia Fall Reggae Fest at SoHo Festival Grounds – Houston’s reggae fest heads to South Houston for another round of good vibes, drinks and vendors, a Houston flower garden, and a lineup of musical talent providing grooves. $35 and up. 2pm to 11pm.
- Apollo Chamber Players presents Banned Books at Octavia Fields Branch Library | FREE – This library concert in honor of Banned Books Week brings the chamber ensemble to Humble, where they present a musical commentary on the “reasoning” behind book censorship and control, with nods to notable books that have been banned historically. 3pm.
- Frida Love Market on the Esplanade | FREE – Head to the East End Esplanade on Navigation for this celebration of the life and legacy of artist Frida Kahlo. Shop local vendors who offer unique, handcrafted goods, explore the community and learn more about the artist who inspired millions of people around the world. 3pm to 9pm.
- Oktoberfest at Sugar Land Town Square – Expect an afternoon and evening of Bavarian music and dancing, beer, authentic German food, games and prizes, and more. Traditional German fare, along with Oktoberfest-inspired dishes, will be served by Town Square restaurants. $5 and up. 4pm to 9pm.
Oktoberfest
Sugar Land Town Square
Saturday, October 7
Expect an afternoon and evening of Bavarian music and dancing, beer, authentic German food, games and prizes, and more. Traditional German fare, along with Oktoberfest-inspired dishes, will be served by Town Square restaurants.
$5 and up | 4pm to 9pm
- Spaces Opening Reception at Archway Gallery | FREE – Featuring works in paint, fiber and clay from artists Silvia PintoSouza and Laura Viada, this exhibition create a visual dialog about creating space for beauty in a turbulent, violent and painful world. The artists will be present at opening, with an artists talk at 6:30pm. There will be complementary light bites, wine, and valet parking. 5pm to 8pm.
- Art Untamed: An Evening of Contemporary Western Art at the Bryan Museum – This evening of art includes an auction, a cocktail reception inside the museum’s Visions of the West exhibit, live music, Q&A sessions with the artists, and more. $150 and up. 5:30pm to 9pm.
- Toy Historian & Author Rob Goldberg at Houston Toy Museum – The author and toy historian, featured on the History Channel’s The Toys That Made Us, appears in conversation with Houstonia magazine’s Meredith Nudo. $10. 6pm.
- Sculpture Month Houston: The Sleep of Reason Opening Reception at Site Gallery Houston | FREE – This exhibition explores the directions and trajectory of figurative art as practiced by artists in our city and state. How do these works compare and connect to the figurative concepts that percolate throughout the contemporary art world? Be among the first to see this exhibition and take time to chat with the artists. 6pm to 9pm.
- Tod Anthony Live Set at Big Horn BBQ | No Cover – Head to Pearland and enjoy barbecue and burgers while listening to the singer-songwriter perform an acoustic set. Originally from New York, he now lives and performs around Houston. 6pm to 9pm.
- Venezuelan Festival at Central Green Park | FREE – The Katy shopping center hosts its annual Venezuelan Festival that also celebrates Central Green’s 10th birthday. Enjoy delicious arepas, take in vibrant cultural performances, and celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. 6pm to 10pm.
- Thorn & Moon: Haunted Hallows Market at Raven Tower | FREE – The magickal market for oddities and curiosities returns to Raven Tower with dozens of artisan vendors, tarot readers, curated music and food trucks, plus a Hogwarts burlesque revue. 21+ after 9:30pm. 6pm to 11pm.
Jonas Brothers
Toyota Center
Saturday, October 7
The pop sensation boy band comes to the Bayou City for an incredible concert, performing five albums in one night. Hear the group that shot to worldwide fame from their appearances on the Disney Channel’s Hannah Montana. $64 and up. 7pm.
$64 and up | 7pm
- Casino Royale Gala at Evelyn’s Park – Enjoy dinner, dancing, drinks, an auction, and casino games at this evening benefiting programming at the Bellaire park. It’s an opportunity to party for a good cause. $250. 6:30pm.
- The Jonas Brothers in Concert at Toyota Center – The pop sensation boy band comes to the Bayou City for an incredible concert, performing five albums in one night. Hear the group that shot to worldwide fame from their appearances on the Disney Channel’s Hannah Montana. $64 and up. 7pm.
- Houston Dynamo FC vs. Colorado Rapids at Shell Energy Stadium – On the cusp of a return to the playoffs, the Dynamo host Colorado for their final home match of the regular season. $15 and up. 7:30pm.
- The Barricade Boys at the Grand 1894 Opera House – The ensemble brings a range of musical styles to the stage, with songs from Les Miserables and Jersey Boys to pop favorites, standards and more. They’ll also share stories about performing around the world. $28 and up. 8pm.
- FKJ in Concert at Bayou Music Center – The French multi-instrumentalist and nu jazz musician comes to Downtown armed with music that has made him a must-see at festivals like Coachella and Lollapalooza. $39.95 and up. 8pm.
- Mercury presents Bach’s Mighty Fortress at Wortham Center – “A Mighty Fortress is Our God” was already a dramatic hymn written by Martin Luther during the Protestant Reformation. Then, J.S. Bach added to its majesty. Hear the thrilling work along with other Bach pieces in this concert, which includes the orchestra and singers. $25 and up. 8pm.
- Jazz Picnic in the Park with Raquel Cepeda – Jazz vocalist Raquel Cepeda performs at this jazz picnic held at an undisclosed park location revealed after purchase. You’ll receive a curated picnic basket of local bits that include charcuterie or sandwiches, along with optional add-ons like wine, flowers and sparkling water. $90 for 2. 8:30pm
- Klub Nocturno presents Rockero Night at White Oak Music Hall – This night of rock en Español takes over the floor at White Oak for a dance party. Groove out all night long to your favorite Spanish and Latin jams. $15. 9:30pm.
- More Great Things to Do All Weekend Long – Some of the biggest things to do in Houston are happening all weekend long. Check out this week’s list, local attractions and destinations, or browse Houston Experiences to save on museum and brewery passes, tours, and more.
SUNDAY
October 8, 2023
- Eternal Gandhi Museum Houston presents Pedal for Peace 2023 at University of Houston–Sugar Land – Begin Sunday with others who seek peace in our world. Gather at the University of Houston–Sugar Land campus for this inaugural bike ride, which takes you around Fort Bend. $70. 8am.
- Have a Nice Day Fahm & Friends Market at Toyota Center | No Cover – Celebrating Filipino American History Month, the crew behind Have a Nice Day returns with a market showcasing Filipino culture and Houston’s small business community. Enjoy food, crafts, appearances from Hakeem Olajuwon and Clyde Drexler, and more at the Rockets’ liftoff party ahead of the new season on October 10. 10am to 2pm.
- Central Market presents Brunch from South of the Border – In this hands-on cooking class, you’ll work in small teams to create a series of tasty brunch dishes including Huevos Divorciados, Plantanos Fritos and more. 21+. $65. 11am to 1:30pm.
- Cigna Sunday in the Park at Proctor Plaza Park | FREE – Enjoy time with family, meet new friends and experience our city parks with this Sunday series. Head to Proctor Plaza Park in Greater Heights for music, games, dancing, and fun activities. Noon to 4pm.
- 281 Day Party at Social Beer Garden | No Cover – Celebrate the 281st day of the year with this H-Town bash featuring live DJs, local food, purple drank, and more. Noon to 7pm.
- Bubble Science at Houston Arboretum & Nature Center – Discover the magic of bubbles while creating your own bubbly fun in this hands-on session that looks at all the places in nature where bubbles might appear. $12. 1:30pm and 3pm.
- The Orange Show Center for Visionary Art presents Fly Byes at Smither Park | FREE – This afternoon of art and fun includes free music, crafts, lowrider cars from Boyz en el Barrio and Certified Car Club, and a screening of the short film, Fly Byes at the mosaic-covered Smither Park. 1:30pm to 6:30pm.
Fahm & Friends Market
Toyota Center
Sunday, October 8
Celebrating Filipino American History Month, the crew behind Have a Nice Day returns with a market showcasing Filipino culture and Houston’s small business community. Enjoy food, crafts, appearances from Hakeem Olajuwon and Clyde Drexler, and more at the Rockets’ liftoff party ahead of the new season on October 10.
No Cover | 10am to 2pm
- Fort Bend Symphony Orchestra & Chorus presents Straight from the Soundtrack: Westerns at Stafford Centre – This afternoon concert celebrates the epic adventure of the Western, with themes to TV shows such as Gunsmoke and The Lone Ranger, choral renditions of the theme to The Alamo and Rawhide, plus other favorites like “The Yellow Rose of Texas.” $15 and up. 2pm.
- Annual Oyster Shucking Contest at Julep Bar – Some of Houston’s hottest chefs compete for bragging rights and the grand prize in this annual event that celebrates Gulf Coast oysters. Proceeds are donated to a charity of the winning chef’s choice. $5. 3pm to 6pm.
- International Cup at Houston Polo Club – Experience a world class polo match, player parade, live music, expert announcing, Champagne divot stomp at halftime and special trophy presentation. David Cordúa’s The Lymbar is the onsite concession serving delicious Argentine- and Brazilian-inspired menu choices with a premium bar menu. $18 and up. 4pm.
- Jim Brickman in Concert at Main Street Crossing – The pop songwriter, pianist, and radio host, known for his distinct playing style and 22 No. 1 albums, comes to Tomball as part of his Hits Live! Tour. $75 and up. 4pm.
- Houston Dash vs Angel City FC at Shell Energy Stadium – Spend Sunday evening in EaDo, cheering on the hometown Dash as they defend their turf against the soccer squad from Los Angeles. The match marks the final home game of the regular season for the Dash. $18 and up. 6pm.
- Alejandro Sanz in Concert at Smart Financial Centre – The Spanish pop artist and decorated Grammy-winning musician heads to Sugar Land, performing songs from his 2021 self-titled album and other fan faves. $75 and up. 8pm.
- More Great Things to Do All Weekend Long – Some of the biggest things to do in Houston are happening all weekend long. Check out this week’s list, local attractions and destinations, or browse Houston Experiences to save on museum passes, tours, and more.
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