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    New Wedding Venues

    Seven new area wedding venues guaranteed to exceed every couple's wedding day dreams

    Deborah Elias
    Feb 12, 2016 | 2:30 pm

    The question is popped, the answer leads to excitement and the hard work begins — finding the perfect venue for the perfect wedding.

    In previous stories (Houston's 10 Best Wedding Venues: A cheat sheet for smart brides and grooms and 18 hot and happening event venues: The best places to party special in Houston) we have discussed great wedding venues in the Houston area. Here are some exciting new options for hosting your wedding or special event:

    The Dunlavy

    The revitalization of Buffalo Bayou has delighted many and now there's more to love with the installation of the first venue/restaurant space along Houston's main body of water. The Dunlavy, which sits on the banks of the bayou in an area called Lost Lake, is a stunningly simple space with an impressive collection of crystal chandeliers that flicker off the windows and water. With the Clark Cooper Concepts team at the helm of the culinary experience, this space is surely going to be a force to be reckoned with.

    Houston Oaks

    Houston Oaks, located in Hockley about 35 miles from downtown Houston, is one of the most beautiful places in the area to have a wedding and reception in one place. The owners have installed a sweet little chapel on the property for the ceremony. There are many places to hold the reception but I love the idea of a clear span tent strategically situated under a gorgeous oak tree.

    Citadel on Kirby

    The Citadel on Kirby is a phenomenal new space. Gathering its inspiration from 17th century Scottish castles, it is both elegant and grand. Not only it is perfect for an indoor event, with its 26-foot-high ceilings, but the 30-foot indoor water wall and more than six acres of lush landscaped gardens, fountains, gazebos, and outdoor patios make it the perfect locale for an outdoor event. If you have dreamed of getting married in a castle, this is your space.

    Sylvan Beach Pavilion

    Sylvan Beach Pavilion is a landmark venue located in La Porte on Galveston Bay. Even though it is a historic property, it underwent a $15 million renovation in 2013 that creates a more modern feeling, with large windows and a teakwood deck space. Its most celebrated feature is the 10,000-square-foot glass-walled ballroom with a 3,600-foot circular dance floor. The is a special space that offers couples of all budget ranges a variety of robust packages.

    Waters Edge

    Waters Edge is waterfront venue located on two and a half acres facing the shores of Clear Lake. Guests can enjoy scenic views while sitting on the 2,500-square-foot patio that includes a fire pit to enjoy the spectacular view. The property also features a lighted pier and gazebo located over the water for those wishing to have a truly unique and romantic ceremony. The venue is decorated with modern touches, which makes a unique canvas for any event. One of the best features is the ability to launch a fireworks extravaganza, a rarity inside the Houston city limits.

    The Overlook

    Built on a secluded 22 acres with American Craftsman architectural elements, this charming space is located in Atascocita. The main building overlooks six acres of ponds in the woods near the Lake Houston area and has a lot of southern charm. Executive chef Julio Avila and wife Tiffany Avila of The Hometown Chef Catering Co. are sure to please the palate with their food and beverage selections.With a variety of ceremony and reception spaces to choose from and the ability to have a D.I.Y wedding or choose from all-inclusive packages, this venue can meet all budget ranges.

    The Bougainvilleas

    Located 20 minutes west of the Galleria area and only five minutes west of the Beltway, The Bougainvilleas is a true delight — featuring two ballrooms, a chapel, a wine room, a bridal suite, and a groom's room. The stunning floral entrance will surely captivate your guests' attention. The grand ballroom can seat up to 350 and with several package options to choose from with the basics including linens, cake, nonalcoholic beverages, and some decor elements, this is perfect for the budget-conscious couple.

    CultureMap contributor Deborah Elias is the founder of Elias Events.

    Houston Oaks, located in Hockley about 35 miles from downtown Houston, is one of the most beautiful places in the area to have a wedding and reception in one place.

    Houston Oaks
    Photo courtesy of Houston Oaks
    Houston Oaks, located in Hockley about 35 miles from downtown Houston, is one of the most beautiful places in the area to have a wedding and reception in one place.
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    a new record

    Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo commits over $30 million to education

    Jef Rouner
    Dec 2, 2025 | 10:00 am
    Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo cattle exhibition
    Courtesy of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo
    The money supports studies in fields such as animal husbandry.

    The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo continues its annual tradition of breaking its own record when it comes to educational endowments. On Giving Tuesday, the organization pledged to disburse $30,353,380 in 2026 in the form of scholarships, grants, and other funding.

    “This milestone moment of reaching $30 million in a single year highlights the Rodeo’s unwavering dedication to Texas youth and education,” HLSR president and CEO Chris Boleman said in a statement. “Thanks to our loyal donors, sponsors, more than 36,000 volunteers and dedicated attendees, 2026 will reach historic heights in supporting the next generation of leaders, agricultural professionals and organizations that share the Rodeo’s mission.”

    This brings the total of education funding provided by the Rodeo since 1932 up to $660 million. Last year's $28 million commitment also set a new record.

    One innovation this year is the establishment of the Area Go Texan Vocational Scholarship, a program that expands on the relationship with 68 Texas counties through the Area Go Texan affiliate program. One student from each county will receive $6,000 toward a degree or certificate in a vocational field at a Texas nonprofit college or university. Another $500,000 in vocational scholarships will awarded to 10 schools in 2026. Guidelines for applying can be found at this link.

    In total, the Rodeo will hand out $15,126,000 in scholarships, $11,273,500 to junior exhibitors, $3,430,880 in grants, and $523,000 in graduate assistantships. Grants will be awarded to 82 Texas institutions and organizations, such as Arts for Rural Texas, BridgeYear, The Bryan Museum, Diversity in the Arts and Entertainment, Greater Houston Partnership Foundation, Multicultural Education and Counseling through the Arts (MECA), Space Center Houston, Texas State University Development Foundation, and University of St. Thomas at Houston.

    Money for the annual endowment is raised through the annual auctions, sales of livestock and art, and through charitable donations. The goal of the endowment program is to promote study and research in agriculture, animal husbandry, and other fields that directly benefit the Rodeo.

    The Rodeo is scheduled to run from March 2 – 22, 2026. More information on performers, attractions, and vendors can be found at RodeoHouston.com. Scholarship applications are open through February 2, with funds being awarded in summer 2026.

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