Now that the work week is almost history, it’s time to look ahead to the weekend. We've lassoed up a ton of great stuff to do around town— including Rodeo happenings, Chinese New Year, and a fun film fest. Here are the top seven things to do in Houston this weekend. For more options, check out the full CultureMap Events Calendar.
Thursday, February 15
Fun film fest
The five-day cinematic event, Inspire Film Festival, celebrates the human spirit by entertaining audiences via short films, feature films, and panel discussions at various venues in The Woodlands. Event runs through Monday, February 19. For locations and the full schedule, click here. (various times; tickets: $125 per person for weekend passes) Various locations; 281-363-3300
Friday, February 16
Guitar hero
Guitarist Eric Johnson heads to the House of Blues to perform hits from his now-classic 1990 album, Ah Via Musicom, including "High Landrons," "Righteous," "Trademark," and "Cliffs of Dover." (7 pm; tickets:$27.50-$55 per person). 1204 Caroline St.; 888-402-5837
Saturday, February 17
Year of the Dog party
Asia Society Texas Center rings in the Chinese New Year with dance performances, sandpainting demonstrations, arts and crafts, food inspired by Lunar New Year traditions across Asia, and lots more. (12-4 pm; tickets: Admission is free, but RSVP here). 1370 Southmore Blvd.; 713-496-9901
Year of the kids
For some family fun, head to the Children’s Museum of Houston for the 2018 Lunar New Year Bash. You and the kiddos can expect lion dancers, martial arts activities, and interactive performances. Shimmy and sway with Polynesian dancers, create fans, lanterns and origami, and even make your own moon finder for the Lunar New year. (10 am-6 pm; tickets $10-$12) 1500 Binz St.; 713-522-1138
New Year dining
Head to Le Colonial restaurant at River Oaks District for a festive evening in celebration of the Chinese New Year. Enjoy special offerings, including a main course with stir-fried Maine lobster, young ginger, and leeks, and dessert featuring sweet rice dumplings with grated coconut, sesame seeds, warm ginger syrup, and coconut cream. You can also expect a lively performance by lion and dragon dancers. (Festivities kick off at 6 pm; pricing: menu items are a la carte)
4444 Westheimer Rd G-140; 713-629-4444
A little bubbly
Skurnik Wines teams up with Camerata at Paulie's for a seminar featuring European methode champenoise sparkling wines. The afternoon serves as a primer to those beginning their education into the sub-regions of Champagne. (2:30-3:30 pm; tickets: $50 per person)
1834 Westheimer Rd.; 713-522-8466
Sunday, February 18
Rodeo's best bites
Go big at Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo’s (HLSR) mega food and wine event, Rodeo Uncorked! Best Bites. Here, you can load up on fare from more than 100 high-profile local restaurants, and take your pick of more than 400 wines available to sample. (6 pm for table buyers and 6:30 for general admission; tickets: $165 per person, tables range from $2,000-$2,500) 1 NRG Park; 832-667-1080
Leap into the Lunar New Year at the Children's Museum of Houston.
