Don't have any weekend plans? From spectacular concerts and lively festivals to can’t-miss food events, we've got you covered. Here are our top nine picks to get out and enjoy Houston this weekend.
For more options, check out the full CultureMap Events Calendar.
Food and wine fest
Friday, May 5-Saturday, May 6
From specialty food items and culinary events to artisan exhibits, the 8th annual Galveston Island Food & Wine Festival at the Galveston Island Convention Center offers global wines paired with delicious bites, and tips from winemakers and chefs. (Various times; tickets: $30-$156 per person)
5600 Seawall Blvd, Galveston; 409-770-0999
Stand-up guy
Friday, May 5
Former Tonight Show host Jay Leno brings his stand-up comedy tour to Smart Financial Centre. Leno is currently the producer and host of online web series, Jay Leno’s Garage. (8 pm; tickets: $55-$150 per person).
18111 Lexington Blvd., Sugar Land; 281-207-6278
Dragon boat races on the bayou
Saturday, May 6
Cheer on more than 20 corporate and community teams as they paddle their way through Buffalo Bayou at 17th annual Houston Dragon Boat Festival. Race times are staggered throughout the day (8:30 am-4:30 pm; tickets: free)
1001 Commerce St.; 281-636-5270
Celebrate Japan
Saturday, May 6-Sunday, May 7
Expect traditional, colorful decorations like koinobori carp streamers, entertainment by hip-hop dance and singing group Jr. Exile, an imperial parade by Okinawan dance troupe Kayonokai, a traditional tea ceremony in the Japanese Garden, and more at the 2017 Japan Festival at Hermann Park. (10 am; tickets: free).
1700 Hermann Dr.; 713-963-0121
Enjoy the arts
Saturday, May 6
The Rothko Chapel presents MenilFest 2017/ the Gulf Coast Indie book fest. Head to the Menil Grounds for a day of performances, readings, and a showcase of independent authors and publishers. For a full schedule of events, click here. (11 am-6 pm; tickets: free)
1533 Sul Ross St.; 713-525-9400
Adopt a pup
Saturday, May 6
Stroll, listen to live music, and adopt a pet from Pup Squad Animal Rescue at Mutts + Melodies, held on the lawn at downtown’s GreenStreet. (1-4 pm; tickets: free).
1201 Fannin St.; 713-524-0661
I feel it coming
Saturday, May 6
Grammy Award-winning music artist The Weeknd heads to Toyota Center as part of his “Starboy: Legend of the Fall 2017 World Tour,” in support of this third album, Starboy. Songs from the album, featuring guest appearances from Daft Punk, Lana Del Rey, Future, and Kendrick Lamar, include the title track, as well as "I Feel It Coming," "Party Monster," and "Reminder.” (8 pm; tickets: $150 per person)
1510 Polk St.; 713-758-7200
Fab food and drinks for charity
Sunday, May 7
The Big Taste of Houston presents food and drinks from 25 Houston restaurants and bars, including Uchi, Dish Society, The Pit Room, The Original Ninfa’s on Navigation, and Bayou + Bottle. Proceeds raised benefit nonprofit Big Brothers Big Sisters. (4:30-7 pm; tickets: $125-$195 per person).
2120 Southwest Fwy.; 713-860-8209
Mixtape
Sunday, May 7
Chance the Rapper headlines at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion. His 2016 mixtape (streaming-only album) Coloring Book won Best Rap Album at the 2017 Grammy Awards. Featured songs include “All We Got,” “No Problem,”Juke Jam,” and “Finish Line/Down.” (8 pm; tickets: $70-$372 per person)
2005 Lake Robbins Dr., The Woodlands; 281-363-3300
For fun ways to celebrate Cinco de Mayo, check out this CultureMap story.
Chance the Rapper headlines at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion.
Emilia's Havana offers a retro spin on the holiday bar, with the 1950s-inspired speakeasy decked out in tinsel and trees. Photo by Hasan Yousef 