This weekend's events are full of fun for anyone with eclectic tastes and income levels. Whether enjoying a $3,000 per couple dinner featuring the world's best cognac at The Federal Grill, brunching for a cause at Izakaya, catching a performance of the incomparable Andrea Bocelli, or taking in a free talk about the Astrodome, you're sure to have a great time in the city. And if you missed the annual Dickens on the Strand in Galveston last weekend because of the heavy rains, organizers have added another weekend of activities.
These are 11 events to add to your calendar, but be sure to check out our CultureMap Events Calendar for more events happening around the city.
Thursday, December 8
For the last 50 years, the Houston Astrodome has been regarded as the "Eighth Wonder of the World" locally and around the nation. Authors Robert C. Trumphour and Kenneth Womack discuss their book that explores how the Astrodome has played a role in Houston's development and also its emotional connection to the city.
The Federal Grill hosts an opportunity for diners to splurge with a meal featuring Louis XIII, the world's most famous cognac, with brand ambassador Matthew Springate. At $3,000 per couple, the three-course tasting menu is steep, but the opportunity to taste other Remy Martin spirits during the dinner, a bottle of Louis XIII for each couple and a special pair of the brand's signature fleur de lis cufflinks is priceless.
Friday, December 9
43rd Annual Dickens on The Strand Festival
Due to the record breaking rainfall of last weekend, Galveston Historical Foundation is adding an unprecedented second weekend of the 43rd Annual Dickens on The Strand Festival on Friday night and Saturday. First weekend ticket holders will have their admissions honored the second weekend. The annual holiday Galveston street festival, based on 19th-century Victorian London, features parades, non-stop entertainment on seven stages, strolling carolers, roving musicians, bagpipers, jugglers and a host of other entertainers.
The Historic Fire Station #2 in East End is the backdrop for a meal prepared by Chef German Mosquera as a part of the East End Foundation's East End Table. This dining experience aims to highlight local creative talent and notable chefs while enjoying a meal in unexpected settings. Proceeds benefit the East End Cultural District.
Salon A Studio combines fashion and fundraising at this Couture for a Cause. Designer Viktor Luna from Project Runway season nine and Project Runway: All Stars season one winner Mondo Guerra will be on hand to show their fashion looks and help Out for Education celebrate nearly two decades of supporting higher education.
Independent singer/songwriter Josh Garrels performs at the recently refurbished Heights Theater s a part of his "The Light Came Down Christmas" tour. Garrels' music ranged from punk to hip hop, indie-funk, and Christian as he gives his listeners a look into his life through his personal lyrics.
Saturday, December 10
Discovery Green, The Houston Center, Hermann Square and other points of distinction in downtown will be visited on AIA Houston's Tower and Trees tour. This tour will explore the changing scenery of downtown Houston and give attendees the opportunity to see the city from a different point of view.
Join revelers for the Saint Arnold Pub Crawl as it kicks off at Under the Volcano and continues to five other popular bars. Get your punch card stamped at each stop, grab a drink, and have a fun day crawling from bar to bar with other beer and cocktail lovers.
Help out a good cause and hear some great music from Buxton, Blue Healer, Black Joe Lewis & The Honeybears, and special DJ sets from Houston rapper Fat Tony. A portion of this year's proceeds will benefit the music program at Northside High School (formerly Jefferson Davis High).
Sunday, December 11
Izakaya Second Sunday Charity Brunch
Diners at the December Sunday Charity Brunch at Izakaya can savor a special $8 cocktail; $5 from each one sold will be donated to Texas Children's Hospital. Brunch for a good cause and a bring new, unwrapped toy that will be distributed to children at the hospital.
Andrea Bocelli in concert with Houston Symphony, Katherine McPhee, and Ana Maria Martinez
The renowned Italian tenor presents a stunning new production based on his latest album Cinema, which includes epic theme songs from films such as Scent of a Woman, The Godfather, Love Story, and Life is Beautiful. This special performance also features Bocelli’s beloved repertoire of soaring arias and crossover hits. Guest artists include former American Idol runner-up Katherine McPhee and soprano Ana Maria Martinez.
Join other revelers at the 6th Annual Saint Arnold Pub Crawl.
