While much of the country prepares to go into winter hibernation, the opposite is true for Houstonians who love the feel of autumnal colors. With the nice (relatively) brisk temperatures here, find your fabulous Gucci boots, the accent Hermès scarf and paint the town with my suggestions, a medley of young professional parties, art openings, seasonal workshops and costume fetes for the young and the restless.
Remember to click on the links below each event description. That's where you'll find a page with a feature that downloads the details to your electronic toys, with intel on recommended places to eat, drink and shop so you get the most of your outing.
Friends of Depelchin's Fall Carnival Party
Recent renovations to the DePelchin Chidren's Center means the young professionals that advocate for the nonprofit's mission have much to celebrate. But not in formal style with ribbon cuttings and all that adult, ceremonial hoopla. Instead, these friendly philanthropists host a carnival party at a casual neighborhood bar. Amusements such as a balloon artist, games and a silent auction complement goodies from Bowl, La Madeleine and Kroger.
The skinny: Thursday, 6 to 9 p.m.; Jackson's Watering Hole; tickets start at $20.
26th Annual Día de los Muertos: Gala and Retablo Silent Auction
Every year without fail, the announcement that releases a limited number of tins to be morphed into retablos incites a mad artist rush to Lawndale Art Center to claim a spot in the Día de los Muertos' Gala and Retablo Silent Auction. More than 300 artists donate their own take on the iconic devotional art, surely the pretext to throw another lively art party in the contemporary galleries of this fun museum.
Music by DJ Night Drive, nibbles from Tacos A Go-Go and beer courtesy of Saint Arnold Brewing Company turn this art opening chaired by Denise Furlough, John Andell and David Thomas into a favorite happening on the social calendars of quirky art collectors.
The skinny: Friday, 6 to 9 p.m.; Lawndale Art Center; $50 general public, $35 Lawndale members.
Orange Show's Pumpkin Carving and Mask Making Workshop with artist Carter Ernst
Go where no pumpkin has gone before with this hands-on workshop with artist Carter Ernst, whose public art sculptures and installations represent the kind of quirky wit with which we like to associate Houston. Participants will be challenged also to create masks using discarded objects. Bring your own pumpkin and some personal items to create a personalized, signature piece.
The skinny: Saturday, 11 a.m.; Orange Show Center for Visionary Art; free event.
PULSE, St. Luke's Medical Center Young Professionals hosts "Saints & Sinners"
The lovely Lindley and Jason Arnoldy know how to throw a party, so expect a ghoulishly good time at this "Saints & Sinners" costume bash that benefits St. Luke's Medical Center. Friendly spirits and cocktails will be flowing at this young professionals gathering, supported by a influential host committee sure to bring out the creme de la creme of the city's emerging do-gooders.
The skinny: Saturday, 9 p.m.; Rosemont Social Club; $100 general public, $75 PULSE members.
Okinawan Cultural Association presents "Kokyo – Dialogue Between Hearts"
Experience a little of the "Island of performing arts" right here in Houston with "Kokyo – Dialogue Between Hearts." The cultural traditions of Okinawa, Japan, will come alive with zestful dance, high-decibel drumming and elaborate costumes. As with everything at Miller, this performance is free to attend.
And it's a perfect opportunity to gather friends and family for a picnic on the hill.
Amusements such as a balloon artist, games and a silent auction comprise Friends of Depelchin's Fall Carnival Party.
