weekend event planner

These are the 15 best things to do in Houston this weekend

Despite Houston experiencing one last winter blast, this weekend offers plenty of fun things to do. We got a lot of festivals, from food to rodeo. There will also be some stage productions, a Star Wars classic with a full symphony, a super-sized circus, and Marilyn Monroe – twice!

Thursday, February 20

University of Houston-Downtown present vitalvoices: 200,000 African Americans: The Great Migration to Houston
Between 1900 and 1950, an estimated 50,000 African Americans relocated to Houston to escape rural poverty and social depravity. The city’s economy, largely thanks to the Galveston Hurricane of 1900 and historic discovery at the Spindletop Oilfield in 1900 and 1901, provided unprecedented prospects and enjoyments for African Americans compared to most African Americans and African-descent groups in the United States in the early 20th century. Dr. Bernadette Pruitt will share the early history of African American life in Houston. 11:30 am.

Garden Bros. Nuclear Circus
The Garden Bros. Nuclear Circus features over 60 performers from around the world in five rings. Performances include special effects, concert-style lighting, the Human Cannonball, Wheel of Death, motorcycles in the Sphere of Fear, Human Slingshot, comedy, girls hanging by their hair, the Olate Performing Dogs, Cossack Riders, and more. Attendees can come early and meet the circus stars, get their faces painted, ride the Monster Slide or play on a moon bounce, eat snacks, and more. 4:30 and 7:30 pm (1:30, 4:30 and 7:30 pm; 1, 4 and 7 pm Sunday).

Mildred's Umbrella Theater presents The Wanderers
Mildred's Umbrella Theater closes its season with the Houston premiere of The Wanderers by Anna Ziegler. Two marriages have seemingly little in common: Esther and Schmuli are Orthodox Jews navigating defined rules and roles, while Sophie and Abe are secular and free to make their own choices. But both couples are growing apart as they strive to balance their individual identities with the families they've created. This funny, moving, and thoughtful play asks if following one's truth is worth it, no matter the cost. 7:30 pm (8 pm Saturday; 2 pm Sunday).

Friday, February 21

Houston Symphony presents Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back in Concert
When it comes to the original Star Wars trilogy, it’s universally acknowledged that The Empire Strikes Back is the best one. After all, it’s the one where Luke Skywalker trains with Master Yoda and learns a shocking truth about Darth Vader. (For the ladies, we also get Billy Dee Williams as that smooth rascal Lando Calrissian.) The action unfolds on the giant screen at Jones Hall, with audiences experiencing every note of John Williams’ masterful score live. 7:30 pm (2 and 7:30 pm Saturday).

Alley Theatre presents The Glass Menagerie
The Glass Menagerie is an American classic that follows a family trapped in dreams and delusion. Amanda, a faded Southern belle, yearns for a better life for her children. However, Laura would rather spend time alone with her collection of delicate glass animals, while her restless son, Tom, longs to escape the monotony of his current life. The timeless masterpiece asks audiences to explore themes of memory, escape, and the delicate nature of human connections. Through March 16. 8 pm (8 pm Saturday; 2 and 7 pm Sunday).

The Houston Rockets present HBCU Night
It’s Black History Month, and the Houston Rockets will take on the Minnesota Timberwolves and honor Historically Black Colleges and Universities with its HBCU Night. Tickets start at $50 and include admission, a special pre-game art gallery, and one beverage. The gallery opens at 5 pm in the VIP Banquet Room. The gallery will feature several of Houston’s finest Black artists, including Henry Agim, Lee Carrier, Robert Leroy Hodge, NELXART, Jaylen Pigford, and John H, Duncan. 8:30 pm.

Improv Houston presents Luenell
Luenell is a force of nature. Best known as the “hooker with the heart of gold” from Borat, the sleepy-eyed, bottle-blonde comedienne is recognized by both mainstream and urban sectors of the population. We particularly enjoyed how she managed to crack up David Letterman and Bill Hader on John Mulaney’s Everybody’s in LA talk show last year. She’ll be spending a couple nights in Houston, making ‘em laugh over at the Improv. 7:30 and 9:45 pm (7 pm Saturday).

Saturday, February 22

Mardi Gras Galveston
Oleander City will be getting knee deep in Fat Tuesday festivities this weekend with its annual Mardi Gras Galveston celebration. On Saturday alone, things will kick off with the Jolly Jester Jaunt (aka a 5k fun run). As for parades, we have the Mystic Krewe of Aquarius Festival, the 14th Annual Zaniest Golf Cart Parade, the Krewe D’iHart Media Art Car & Jeep Parade, and the Krewe of Gambrinus Parade. The Corona Extra Stage will have a headlining performance of Poison frontman (and ex-reality TV star) Bret Michaels. 11 am.

Houston Farmers Market presents Rodeo Festival
The Houston Farmers Market presents its annual Rodeo Festival, kicking off Rodeo season with a special event featuring live music, tasty bites (from R-C Ranch, Alamo Tamales, and Underbelly Burger), and family-friendly fun. Parents can bring their little wranglers to festive activations with The Texas Bubblers and Toddler Towns, the destination's newest tenant. Guests can explore offerings from small businesses and local artisans at a special Shop Local Market pop-up, test their prowess on a mechanical bull, enjoy a petting zoo, and more. 11 am.

Karbach Brewing Co. presents Diaspora Food Festival
Guests can experience the vibrant flavors of African-influenced food (as well as sample such Karbach ales as Crawford Bock and Hopadillo IPA) at the Diaspora Food Festival. The event will include food, vendors, live music, drinks, and other entertainment. Savor a diverse selection of African-inspired dishes from curated food vendors and shop from local merchants while enjoying the lively atmosphere. Don’t miss this celebration of culture, community, and cuisine. 11 am.

The Original Ninfa’s on Navigation presents National Margarita Day
[Update: This event has been rescheduled to March 1.] The Original Ninfa’s on Navigation is partnering with Boo’s Burgers on National Margarita Day for a collaborative burger pop-up, complete with margaritas and more. Customers will have the opportunity to enjoy the Boo’s OG x The Original Ninfa’s Fiesta Burger for a limited time. Made with fresh ground beef and Chihuahua cheese nestled in a buttery challah bun, the burger is served alongside a refreshing ensalada de nopales and savory esquites with a kick of salsa macha. 2 pm.

Dirty Dancing In Concert
See the '80s classic on the big screen while a live band and singers performing the film’s iconic songs. After the movie, the band and singers will throw an encore party where the audience can sing and dance along to their favorite Dirty Dancing songs. 7 pm.

Sunday, February 23

The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston presents Winter Festival
The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston’s Winter Festival celebrates 2025, aka the Year of the Snake. The festival will feature music and dance performances and food from a variety of Asian cultures. Families can engage in art-making activities with museum artists and community organizations like the Japan America Society of Houston. Visitors can also explore the Museum’s galleries throughout the afternoon for free and follow the scavenger hunt, Objects of Renewal, to the Arts of Asia and Indonesian Gold galleries. 1 pm.

River Oaks Theatre presents Old School: The Seven Year Itch
If you’re a fan of Marilyn Monroe, you’ll get two lovely chances to see her on the big screen this weekend. You can see her live it up with Jane Russell in the musical Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, which will be shown (in glorious 35mm!) at the MFAH on Friday night. Or catch a Sunday matinee screening of this delightful 1955 comedy, where she plays the tempting upstairs neighbor of a man (Tom Ewell) whose wife and son are gone for the summer. 3 pm.

Kash Doll in Concert
Apparently, there are a lot of “doll” rappers out there in the world: Cuban Doll, Asian Doll, etc. But, this weekend, Detroit rap princess Kash Doll will be in H-Town to let y’all know she’s the original doll. She said so on a recent Club Shay Shay podcast, claiming all those other dolls copied her. Whether that’s true or not, the Motor City diva comes to Warehouse Live in support of her new album, The Last Doll. 7 pm.

Photo courtesy of Garden Bros. Nuclear Circus

Garden Bros. Nuclear Circus is in Houston this weekend.

event-planner

where to party on WLN

More than 20 White Linen Night parties happening in the Heights and beyond

Photo courtesy of White Linen Night in the Heights

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Goodness – it’s White Linen Night time again.

It’s that time of year when folks put on their finest, cleanest linens and walk around the Heights, just taking in all the fanciness. As this year marks the night’s 20th anniversary, Houston has a whole slew of WLN-related events, from day parties to outdoor markets to late-night shindigs. But there will also be a few alternative events (Black denim, anyone?) going on at the same time.

As always, the main celebration happens on 19th Street in the Heights. Organized by the 19th Street Merchants Association, a crowd of thousands of people — all dressed in white — shows up for this festival that features live music, street performers, food and drink stands, and more than 50 local vendors. Held from 6-10 pm, tickets are $20. Get more details and purchase tickets here.

In addition to the party 19th Street, these bars, restaurants, and other businesses in the Heights and beyond are also getting in on the White Linen Night festivities.

Agnes and Sherman will turn its space into a WLN pit stop, where folks can level up the experience with a spot to refuel and refresh. Enjoy indoor AC, restrooms, a dedicated bar, and food and drink specials available for purchase all night long. 6 pm.

ARTECHOUSE Houston will celebrate White Linen Night with an immersive evening of art, music, and cocktails. Visitors can explore the "Blooming Wonders" exhibition, featuring digital gardens and interactive installations by internationally renowned artists. 5 pm.

Best Regards will host an all-white affair featuring a specialty food and cocktail menu. Linen wearers can expect a night full of live DJ sets, elegant cocktails and delicious food. 4 pm.

Botanic Beer Garden will serve up special cocktails all day. There’s the White Linen (cucumber, elderflower, lemon, and fresh mint), Salted Honey Hibiscus Margarita (house-made hibiscus, honey, fresh lime, and a salted rim), and Dragonfruit Spritz (dragonfruit, sparkling wine, and citrus). 11 am.

Bungalow Heights promises to keep things cool if the weather gets a bit too heated. It will have an air-conditioned tent and an upper patio, where attendees can enjoy the all-day food and drink specials. A DJ will take over at 6 pm. 10 am.

By the Wayside is teaming up with Miradela for a White Linen Makers & Creators Market. Browse the market, meet the people behind the work, grab a cocktail and some food, and stick around as the night rolls on. 5 pm.

Cattlemen’s Country Club will have a White Linen Party, featuring live music from Hillbilly Deluxe and Christian Walker. This is part of a multi-venue WLN takeover that includes Heights Social, BLVD Park, and Say No Mas. Noon.

Dan Electro’s Guitar Bar sets off Black Denim festivities at Sunset Heights this year with its “Lilith Fair Festival” theme. Marley Moon, Hate Mail, and Enochian Project will be some of the artists performing, with The Suffers frontwoman Kam Franklin providing DJ grooves. 6 pm.

Donna’s WLN throwdown will include a tented parking-lot party, tropical cocktails, snacks and sandos from Bayou Butchers, and a DJ Demo vinyl set at 8:30 pm. White linen encouraged, and good times guaranteed. 6 pm.

With its WLN after party, Mexican-inspired cocktail lounge 1111 wants people to leave the Heights in white and head over to Montrose for an afterparty. Keelan Foreal will provide the sounds for this late-night soiree. Reservations are recommended, but walk-ins are welcome. 10 pm.

ELLIO Fine Art’s fifth annual WLN celebration will feature artwork from artists Audrey Tulimierro Welch, Kristina Rose Baker, and Houston’s own Shanti Conlan. The exhibition brings together voices whose practices span abstraction, painting, and printmaking. 4 pm.

Emerson Rose will feature a performance from local cover band The Pipe Dream. The three-piece outfit will play crowd favorites from the 90s through today. 6 pm.

Heights Antiques on Yale will be holding its 1st Saturday sale before WLN. The sidewalk sale will feature discounts of 20-50 percent off storewide. A complimentary food and drinks buffet will also be available. 10 am.

Heights Bier Garten will be offering its open-air garden for folks to sip cocktails, listen to live music, and soak in the vibes. Good Time Muffin will be kicking things off with live tunes, followed by a DJ spinning grooves at 8 pm. 4 pm.

Hotel Daphne will hold a White Linen Soiree — aka “An Elevated Al Fresco Evening.” This event will feature spritz-forward cocktails, alongside bites such as oysters, shrimp with pepperoni butter, and focaccia pizza. A live DJ will keep the party going in the courtyard. 6 pm.

M-K-T and Houston Plant Market present the fourth annual White Linen Market. The open-air market will feature a curated mix of local makers, artists, plant vendors, accessories, specialty goods, and food finds. 4 pm.

Melrose will celebrate WLN all through the wee hours with its Late Night Affair. It’ll be a night of cocktails, sounds, and late-night service, with JJOSHALLENN and Kyle Baron providing the tunes. Dress in white and stay all night. 10 pm.

Moon Rabbit is inviting all the white-wearers to swing by the Vietnamese restaurant for a patio party. It will have light bites, specialty cocktails, a DJ spinning live music, and lots of fun. Saint Arnold Brewing Company and Topo Chico are a few of the sponsors. 5 pm.

Patterson Park Patio Bar will serve as a free, pre-game, WLN destination. It will have all-day drink specials (including $10 white spritzes and $8 white teas), complimentary drink vendors, and a live DJ. 11 am.

Permission Whiskey will have a day-long throwdown, complete with a turf parking lot, Woodford Reserve on deck, and live performances from Peter & the Coconuts and The Bocock Brothers. DJ Gusgus and DJ Low-Key As-Me will spin the late-night grooves at 10 pm. 2 pm.

Raven Tower will be going the opposite route with Black Denim: The Anti-White Linen Night, with rock, emo, pop-punk, and alternative hits all night. Attendees are encouraged to wear their best black denim, band tees, leather, or all-black fit while spending WLN on the darker side of the Heights. 8 pm.

Reata Cellars will have chef Michelle Free serving up her signature "Bad Ass Burgers." This will be followed by John Egan performing some Texas blues at 8 pm. Free will also have a pulled pork sammy to-go kiosk on 19th Street until 11 pm. 6 pm.

Shady Acres Saloon will have live music going during its WLN event. Southern rock/country group Brian Taylor and the High Society will serve as the headliners. Country artist Cooper Mohrmann will perform at 3 pm. 8:30 pm.

Tribeca will hold a Purple Durag Party, hosted by White Durag and The Chopstars. DJ Candlestick, DJ Hollygrove, Lonny, and others will spend the night spinning chopped-and-screwed classics and Houston club anthems. 9 pm.

It’ll be a Whimsy White Linen Night over at The Whimsy Artisan Boutique. The free evening of art, atmosphere, and discovery features local artists, outdoor artist tents, curious collections, and wonderfully strange discoveries. 5 pm.

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