Sunday will be both Easter and 420, which means a lot of those marshmallow Peeps candies will be consumed on this day.
Of course, we have other things happening this weekend: J Balvin performing live, the long-awaited opera adaptation of a Lars von Trier classic, Axelrad’s two-day anniversary spectacular, an Earth Day celebration, and a Rockets pep rally.
With so many fun things going on, no one should be sad. Like the song in the movie says, always look on the bright side of life!
Thursday, April 17
The Broach Foundation for Brain Cancer Research presents The 13th Annual Stand-Up for Brain Cancer Gala
The Broach Foundation for Brain Cancer Research presents comedian Mike Birbiglia at the 13th Annual Stand-Up for Brain Cancer Gala. A reception for all attendees will be first up, followed by dinner and a night of entertainment. Birbiglia is a comedian, writer, director, and actor who has performed his award-winning solo shows worldwide, from the Sydney Opera House to the West End of London to Broadway. He also hosts his own podcast, Mike Birbiglia’s Working It Out. 6 pm.
J Balvin in concert
If you’re a fan of reggaeton music, you must be excited that Colombian reggaeton star J Balvin will be performing at Toyota Center, in support of his 2024 album Rayo. And you also might be Chinese. According to NBC News, Chinese college students have been turning to social media and streaming services, listening to reggaeton from global stars like Balvin and Bad Bunny, in an effort to learn Spanish. So, not only is Balvin wowing audiences worldwide with his reggae grooves – he’s also helping foreigners with a new language! 8 pm.
Friday, April 18
Kemah Boardwalk presents Houston Rockets Playoff Pep Rally
Kemah Boardwalk is teaming up with the Houston Rockets for a high-energy playoff pep rally. The Gulf Coast theme park will celebrate the Rockets’ big return to the playoffs with an afternoon of fun. Fans of all ages can expect photo ops with Clutch the Bear, appearances from the Clutch City Dancers, a live DJ, inflatables, face painting, balloon twisters, and more. There will also be a pop-up merch shop with Rockets gear. The first 100 fans in Rockets gear to stop by the merch tent will score a free, all-day ride pass. 2 pm.
Axelrad 10 Year Anniversary
Midtown beer garden Axelrad is celebrating its 10th anniversary with a two-day celebration. They’ll have live music, tasty drinks, circus performers, a local market, and more surprises. On Friday, the live lineup will include Los Yesterdays, the Gabriella Martinez Selena Tribute, and Chicano Boulevard. On Saturday, we have Bardo of Chicano Batman, Corey Henry & the Treme Funktet, Urban Heat, The Omies, DJ Rubi, and DJ Jean Paul Tiblier. 7 pm. (6 pm Saturday)
Theatre Under the Stars presents Waitress
Inspired by Adrienne Shelly’s beloved film, Waitress tells the story of Jenna, a waitress and expert piemaker who dreams of a way out of her small town and loveless marriage. A baking contest in a nearby county and the town’s new doctor may offer her a chance at a fresh start. But Jenna must summon the strength and courage to rebuild her own life. Waitress features music and lyrics by Sara Bareilles, a book by Jessie Nelson, and direction by Diane Paulus. Through Sunday, April 27. 8 pm (2 & 8 pm Saturday; 2 & 7:30 pm Sunday).
Theatre Southwest presents On Golden Pond
Ernest Thompson’s play On Golden Pond is the love story of Ethel and Norman Thayer, who are returning to their summer home on Golden Pond for the 48th year. Norman is a cantankerous retired professor with heart palpitations, but still as tart-tongued and observant as ever. Ethel is 10 years younger and the perfect foil for Norman. They are visited by their divorced, middle-aged daughter and her dentist fiance, who goes off to Europe and leaves their teenage son for the summer. Through Saturday, April 16. 8 pm (3 pm Sunday).
Saturday, April 19
Houston Arboretum presents Earth Day Celebration
Houston Arboretum's Earth Day Celebration will celebrate the planet through art. Attendees will get a chance to learn about the variety of animals, plants, and people that share the planet. They can also explore nature through poetry, drawing, photography, make their own nature journals, learn from their community partners, go on nature hikes, and enjoy all kinds of Earth-friendly crafts and activities. Guests can also enjoy the Houston Monarch Story, which features striking Monarch sculptures created by artist Michelle Matthews. 10 am.
Moody Center for the Arts presents New Art / New Music
At New Art / New Music, visitors can experience musical responses to the Moody Center for the Arts' current exhibition, "Breath(e): Toward Climate and Social Justice," composed and performed by Shepherd School of Music students. Organized by Rice students Jaylin Vinson and Victor Cui, a series of original compositions will be played in the galleries, followed by a reception. 2 pm.
The River Oaks Theatre presents Flamenco Arabe
Join the River Oaks Theatre for a journey through the sights, sounds, and tastes of Al-Andalus, where music, dance, and gastronomy come together to create a truly unique experience. Immerse yourself in the vibrant rhythms and captivating movements of Flamenco Arabe, featuring performances by Oliva Chacon and Ana María Barceló, who bring the heart and soul of Flamenco to life. Be swept away by vocalists Julie Slim Nassif and Celia Corrales, oudist Sari Andoni, guitarist José Manuel Tejeda, and percussionist Jesus Pacheco. 7 pm.
Houston Grand Opera presents Breaking the Waves
Houston will finally get Breaking the Waves, the critically acclaimed contemporary opera from composer-and-librettist team Missy Mazzoli and Royce Vavrek. Adapted from the Lars von Trier film, the story transports audiences to 1970s Scotland, where the impressionable young Bess wins permission to marry offshore oil rigger Jan. After the impatient lovers consummate their union at their wedding, Bess embarks on a journey of sexual exploration that is tragically interrupted when Jan is paralyzed in an accident. Through Sunday, May 4. 7:30 pm.
Sunday, April 20
Wild presents 420 Backyard BBQ Bash
Houston's hemp dispensary WILD will host the 2nd annual 420 Backyard BBQ Bash at both the WILD Montrose and WILD Heights locations. The event is a high-spirited celebration of canna-culture, community, and curated indulgence — an unforgettable afternoon, packed with infused treats, exclusive deals, and backyard barbecue vibes. Guests can also expect infused cookies, brownies, cereal bars, banana pudding—and yes, even infused tres leches. 11 am.
Munchizu: The Taste of Asia at POST Houston
POST Houston will present Munchizu: The Taste of Asia, a one-day cultural celebration showcasing the flavors and traditions of Korea, Taiwan, and Japan. The event will feature tastings and live cooking demonstrations, including classic Korean kimchi and Taiwanese pickles. Guests can also enjoy a lineup of performances, from a Korean fashion show and dance presentation to cultural showcases from Taiwan and Japan, including a Japanese Taiko drum performance. 2 pm.
Alamo Drafthouse LaCenterra presents Monty Python’s Life of Brian
Most of us know the story of the Messiah, born in a manger to a virgin mother who then grows up to become the savior of all mankind. This is not that story. Following the success of Monty Python and the Holy Grail, the Pythons decided to really thumb their nose at the world and tackle organized religion. The result was 1979’s Life of Brian, a wildly controversial comedy classic that still shocks and delights over 40 years later. 6 pm.
