With school out of session, what can you do with your children during the summer months?
A popular West Houston destination for shopping, dining and entertainment has the answer with movie screenings, artsy festivals, fun activities, al fresco concerts, kid-friendly restaurants and family-focused merchants.
Children and adults alike have been enchanted by the positive message in the 2013 film Frozen. Add stunning animation and memorable musical melodies, it's no wonder why CITYCENTRE chose to screen this Hans Christian Andersen-inspired flick as one of many wholesome family activities offered this summer.
"Moonlight Movies for Kids, sponsored by Texas Children's Hospital West Campus and Sewell Cadillac, has become one of the district's most popular free offerings," CITYCENTRE marketing director Dana L. Efthim says. "The curated series was designed to include a wide range of films that appeal to the kid and the kid at heart. The screenings generate lots of smiles and cheers as the plaza is transformed into an open air theater with a giant screen and families picnicking on the lawn."
How does Frozen (June 11), Monsters Inc. (July 9) and Despicable Me 2 (Aug. 13) sound? With screenings starting at 9 p.m., these films also serve as a respite from the sultry temperatures that otherwise keep families indoors.
"The screenings generate lots of smiles and cheers as the plaza is transformed into an open air theater with a giant screen and families picnicking on the lawn."
"CITYCENTRE was designed with family in mind — from our pedestrian orientation and mix of restaurants and retailers to a range of complimentary, all-ages entertainment offerings and special events that make the plaza a dynamic center of activity in West Houston," she adds. "We continue to find personal reward in the fact that the district not only has multi-generational appeal, but that it has also become a true gathering place, where visitors are comfortable having their children and grandchildren play freely on the central lawn while they visit with friends and neighbors."
Take the Spring Art Series, set for 5 to 8 p.m. on June 15, for example. The unique outdoor vendor market highlights the work of local artists and crafters. Alongside live music and arts and crafts stations, the cheerful gathering connects people of all ages with colorful smiths who produce one-of-a-kind gifts, art, personal objects and collectibles.
Think of the tuneful June Concert Series, held every Saturday in June from 7 to 10 p.m., as a casual opportunity to enjoy lively tunes that everyone loves. The lineup includes Johnny and the Spinsations performing danceable oldies (June 7), The Grateful Geezers with classic rock (June 14), Moodafaruka's world fusion sounds (June 21) and Mambo Jazz Kings with sassy Latin-inspired grooves (June 28).
And while strolling through the mixed-use destination, why not take advantage of the businesses that cater to family life?
Endless options for the whole family
Dinner and a movie has never been easier than with Studio Movie Grill, a theater that couples Hollywood blockbusters with in-theater dining.
A myriad of dining options are featured in the scrumptious menu at Grub Burger Bar. Bold concoctions include the VooDoo Mushroom Burger, the Thai Peanut Burger and the OMG Burger, which is loaded with Texas chili, fries, cheddar cheese and chopped onions. While the adults sip on a chilled signature margarita or a spiked milkshake, children can order from the Munchkins menu, which includes kids burgers, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and grilled cheese sandwiches, alongside hand-spun shakes in flavors such as Mexican vanilla, root beer float and key lime pie.
Hand-crafted desserts are all the rage at SWEET, which bakes delightful cupcakes, moist macaroons and cake pops daily. Fresh coffees, teas and fruit juices can be enjoyed inside the bright bakery or outside in the darling patio.
Hand-crafted desserts are all the rage at SWEET, which bakes delightful cupcakes, moist macaroons and cake pops daily.
Looking for lighter edibles? Whether craving crisp salads or healthy wraps, guests can get exactly what they want at Salata.
Each family member can craft a personalized summer treat at Red Mango. It all begins with all-natural frozen yogurt — sweet or tart. Let your imagination run wild as you mix in healthy berries or indulgent toppings such as cheesecake bits, candy and chocolate bar crumbles.
Need a tasty way to hydrate? Try one of Jamba Juice's refreshing beverages, such as the Orange Carrot Twist or the Orange Berry Antioxidant.
Round out your visit by shopping at lululemon athletica's little sister, newcomer ivivva, a boutique that offers athletic wear for active girls. Or try one of the kid-friendly, mother approved cooking classes at Sur La Table.
Moonlight Movies for Kids, held at CITYCENTRE, has become one of West Houston's most popular free offerings.
