The weekend is almost here, and we’re ready to hit the town. From Mardi Gras celebrations, to big headline concerts, to Super Bowl Sunday gatherings, and more, we’ve put together a list of can’t-miss events. Read on for the nine best things to do in Houston this weekend. For more options, check out the full CultureMap Events Calendar.
Society event
Thursday, February 1-Sunday, February 18
In collaboration with the Dallas Theater Center, Alley Theatre brings iconic statesman President Lyndon Baines Johnson to a Houston stage. The Great Society, a play by Texas playwright and Pulitzer Prize winner Robert Schenkkan, follows the former president as he struggles to fight a war on poverty — even as his war in Vietnam spins out of control. (tickets: $39-$83 per person)
615 Texas St.; 713-220-5700
Rock the house
Thursday, February 1-Sunday, February 4
Inspired by the hit movie starring Jack Black, School of Rock tells the story of Dewey Finn, a wannabe rock star doing time as a substitute teacher who transforms his straight-A students into an amazing rock band. The show features 14 new songs from Broadway legend Andrew Lloyd Webber, as well as all the original tunes from the movie. Don't miss our interview with Phoenix Schuman, one of the show's 12 young performers. (various times; tickets: $35-$140 per person)
800 Bagby St.; 713-315-2525
Let the good times roll
Friday, February 2-Wednesday, February 13
Mardi Gras! Galveston, the third-largest Mardi Gras celebration in the United States, is spread over 12 days and includes parades, music, food, family-friendly activities, 5K fun run, and galas including the Tremont House Mardi Gras Ball and the San Luis Salute. (various times and prices; for more information click here)
Galveston, Texas
The future of food
Friday, February 2-Saturday, February 3
Gulf Coast Food Project and Foodways Texas present The Houston Eats! Conference, a two-day conference devoted to exploring the origins of Texas Gulf Coast's culinary diversity, how it impacts the way Houston eats now, and what it means for the region’s future. Presenters include academics, local food writers, and chefs, including Sylvia Casares (Sylvia’s Enchilada Kitchen), and Kaiser Lashkari (Himalaya). (various times; free with advance registration)
4800 Calhoun Rd.; 832-488-4645
Very Barry
Friday, February 2
Music icon Barry Manilow, whose career has spanned more than 50 years, hits the stage at Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land to showcase songs from his latest album, This is My Town: Songs of New York. You can also expect to hear some of Manilow's greatest hits such as "Copacabana" and “Mandy.” (8 pm; tickets: $19.95 - $249.95 per person)
18111 Lexington Blvd., Sugar Land; 281-207-6278
One cool Katt
Friday, February 2 and Saturday, February 3
Comedian Katt Williams comes to Houston's NRG Arena for a two night stint of his insightful, often polarizing material. The stand-up comedian, actor, and rapper's new Netflix special, Katt Williams: Great America, debuted January 18. (8 pm; tickets: $52-$125)
1 NRG Park; 713-629-3700
Kid around
Saturday, February 3
Kid Rock heads to Toyota Center as part of his Greatest Show on Earth Tour. Songs on his new album, Sweet Southern Sugar, include "Po-Dunk," "Greatest Show on Earth," and "Tennessee Mountain Top." (8 pm; tickets: $37 per person for upper level - $772 per person for floor seats)
1510 Polk St.; 713-758-7200
Blue Sunday
Sunday, February 4
Shop for organic groceries, pick up creative gifts, find unique art, and enjoy live music at the Blue Field Market. You can also take advantage of free yoga classes, and participate in friendly yard game competitions. (10 am-3 pm; tickets: free admission)
2619 Polk St.
The Big Game
Sunday, February 4
Watch the Philadelphia Eagles and New England Patriots face-off at Super Bowl LII at these six bars and restaurants, with offerings from a barbecue pop-up to Saint Arnold brews galore.
Mardi Gras! Galveston, a 12-day affair, kicks off this weekend.
