weekend event planner

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

Dog-friendly patio bar Patterson Park kicks off college football season with a Tailgate Party series starting with the UT/Alabama game.

Photo by Marco Torres

Football season is here, and a hot Heights-area patio bar is celebrating with a big tailgate party series kicking off with this week's UT/Alabama matchup.

Meanwhile, this weekend has some folks in a pickle — or a pickle festival — as local charity event devoted to the former cucumber returns.

A Houston Mediterranean Festival celebrates culture, music, and food (yum ) from countries like Lebanon, Greece, and Syria. On Sunday, a massive Car Culture show at La Centerra revs up gearheads and luxury car fans with fun for all.

Enjoy; here are your best bets for the weekend.

Thursday, September 7

GreenStreet presents Live Music on the Lawn

GreenStreet will host Live Music on the Lawn, a weekly concert series, every Thursday starting this weekend. Great drinks and even better music will flow as Houston’s best and brightest upcoming artists (like Michael Flores, who’ll be the inaugural headliner this weekend) take the GreenStreet stage. During the concerts, guests can sit back and relax on the McCormick & Schmick’s patio or grab dinner to-go from Guadalajara del Centro, The Palm, or House of Blues Restaurant and take it out to the lawn. 5:30 pm.

Mid Main Houston presents First Thursday

The businesses of Mid Main, together with Mid Main Lofts, will kick off another First Thursday block party series this weekend, benefiting Houston Pets Alive. Make a $10 donation to this non-profit for an all-access wristband to the biggest block party in Houston. Shop local artisans, enjoy libations by Saint Arnold Brewing Company, as well as live music, three art shows, and specials all over the block. You’ll also get a complimentary pet portrait by Honest Art for those who adopt a fur baby that evening from Houston Pets Alive. 6 pm.

Montopolis presents Man with a Movie Camera

Revered as a visual masterpiece and one of the greatest documentary films ever made, 1929’s Man with a Movie Camera gives historical context to the current Russian invasion and lays bare the costs of the ongoing humanitarian crisis. The joyful original score by Montopolis celebrates the beauty and resilience of Ukraine’s people and aims to inspire American audiences to support the country in its time of need. They will also be performing their live score to Buster Keaton's silent 18-minute film The Scarecrow as an opener. 8 pm.

Friday, September 8

Houston PetSet presents Fierce & Fabulous Soirée

Houston PetSet, a nonprofit organization working to end Houston’s homeless animal crisis, will present this fantabulous soiree. The evening’s honoree will be the Leslie L. Alexander Foundation, being recognized for their stalwart support of the animal welfare community in Houston. Great Day Houston’s Deborah Duncan will return as emcee, with another luxury timepiece from de Boulle Diamond and Jewelry serving as the raffle prize. 7 pm.

14 Pews presents Q

Q is a compelling exploration of the delicate balance between love and devotion, offering an intimate and haunting portrayal of a quest for love and acceptance at any cost. Filmmaker Jude Chehab takes viewers on a masterful journey through the unspoken ties and consequences of loyalty that have bound her family to a mysterious organization. The screening will be followed by a Q&A session with Chehab, providing attendees with a deeper understanding of the film's themes and production. 8 pm.

The Heights Theater presents Bayou City Funk and Nik Parr & the Selfless Lovers

Bayou City Funk is a group of veteran musicians from the Texas Gulf Coast, on a mission to bring nitty-gritty roots funk, soul, blues and jazz fusion music to the forefront of music lovers' minds of all ages. For this show, they’ll be joined by Nik Parr & the Selfless Lovers They have opened for and toured with acts like The Black Pumas, The Suffers, Tank and The Bangas, Soul Rebels, Rebirth Brass Band, Turkuaz, Ripe, Black Joe Lewis and more. 8 pm.

Sam Smith in concert with Jessie Reyez

While many miss the sharp-dressed Sam Smith who came with chart-topping heartbreakers like “Stay with Me” and “Too Good at Goodbyes,” we understand that the British singer is out here living their truth these days as a flamboyant, uninhibited pop star, churning out club-bangers like “Unholy,” from their new album Gloria. They will be joined by special guest Jessie Reyez. 8 pm.

Saturday, September 9

Tailgate Party at Patterson Park: Texas vs Alabama

Patterson Park, the dog-friendly, Heights-area patio bar boasting a 5,000-square-foot outdoor deck and treehouse vibes, is kicking off college football season with their Tailgate Party series. Catch the highly anticipated matchup between the Texas Longhorns and Alabama Crimson Tide on 40 TVs and pregame with drink specials and outdoor games. Enjoy $5 Bloody Marys and mimosas until 5 pm, $8 High Noons, $25 domestic beer buckets, and $25 prosecco bottles all day. Terry Black's BBQ will be on hand at 5 pm for gameday grub. 10 am to 10 pm

In A Pickle Festival

This 4th annual festival helps to bring awareness to the nonprofit Hunter Syndrome, a very rare genetic disease. There will be around 85 unique crafters and food vendors carrying at least one unique, pickle-themed item. Entertainment includes adult/kids pickle eating and drinking competition, a pickle-canning contest judged by professional chefs, entertainment for kids, a pickled pet parade, bull riding, a pickle beer garden, music from The Bluebonnet Basterds, and more. 11 am.

St. George Orthodox Christian Church presents Houston Mediterranean Festival

The St. George Mediterranean Festival is a celebration of Mediterranean culture and cuisine, featuring food and music from countries like Lebanon, Greece, and Syria. At this fest, you will experience the flavors of traditional Mediterranean dishes such as hummus, baklava, kebabs, and falafel. This festival is a family-friendly event, and there will be plenty of activities for family members of all ages. Noon.

American Cancer Society presents Cattle Baron’s Ball

The American Cancer Society’s iconic Cattle Baron’s Ball, a western-themed gala founded 50 years ago in Dallas, thrives in 27 different cities across America, collectively raising over $17 million this year towards the ongoing pursuit of a cure for cancer. For the last 36 years, Houstonians and beyond have gathered for their own Texas-sized ball to enjoy entertainment from top country artists. 7 pm.

Ingenious Brewing Co. presents Beats & Brews

In collaboration with last year’s Hopchella co-creators, The Weekend Pop-Up Gallery and Ingenious Brewing presents an evening of music, dance, arts, light, and love – and, of course, beer. This interactive music and arts event focuses on creating an immersive experience through sound, color, and light. Expect to hear house music, dubstep, drum & bass, etc. Expect to see stunning installations, light displays, flow dancing, and more. The taproom will stay open an extra hour just for this special occasion. 7 pm.

Sunday, September 10

The Car Culture Shifted at LaCenterra

LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch is gearing up to welcome car enthusiasts from all across Houston at its Car Culture show. Come explore over 100 exotic, classic and luxury cars. Family and friends are invited to explore the area’s coolest vehicles, meet their owners and enjoy a DJ spinning tunes. First come/first served spots will be available for cars that are not signed up for VIP or do not want to be locked in during the event. Guests are welcome to stick around after the show to explore the center’s shops, restaurants and more. 9 am.

The Diaspora Film Festival-Houston

Come on, come all to experience African-influenced cuisine at this food festival, which will be held over at Karbach Brewing. This fest will be pulling out all the stops with a day full of overflowing delicious food, merchants, live music & entertainment, drinks, and more. Feast until your heart's content with a specially crafted list of food vendors and sip on some refreshing drinks. 11 am.

Fantastic Fest Presents My Animal

Director Jacqueline Castel brings new depth to a classic mythos with her energetic, luscious, romantic, 2003 werewolf story, starring Bobbi Salvör Menuez (Adam) and Amandla Sternberg (The Hate U Give). Beneath the surface of a harrowing family drama, a steamy teen romance, and a classic monster tale, Castel bolsters this genre gem with a tactile and emotional excavation of otherness. Ultimately a triumphant testament to self-acceptance, My Animal is a shackle-breaking watch. 7 pm.

7 Fun Houston Near Me September Things to Do Weekend weekend events

weekend event planner

Here are the top 14 things to do in Houston this weekend

Courtesy of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

The rodeo returns with the cook-off, downtown parade, and more.

We’re just a few days away from the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, but Houstonians can get into the cowboy spirit this weekend with the World's Championship Bar-B-Que Contest and by dressing up for Go Texan Day on Friday.

Azumi, City Place, Feges BBQ, HiFi at the Finn, and The Pit Room will celebrate the day with food and drink specials, indoor and outdoor activities, and other surprises. Of course, we have other things popping off this weekend, including a neon cocktail pop-up bar, an Indian film festival, and — to start the Rodeo off on the right boot (sorry) — a downtown rodeo parade.

Don't miss our list of this week's best food events for even more suggestions.

Thursday, February 26

Hotel Saint Augustine presents Rodeo Rendezvous
To salute the upcoming Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Hotel Saint Augustine has got an exclusive, month-long retail residency called Rodeo Rendezvous. The series features a rotating lineup of premier artisans and brands – offering people options for both their 2026 Rodeo wardrobe and for their home collections. The property will convert two of its rooms into a curated boutique destination, blending authentic Texas heritage with high-end fashion, art, and cultural touch points. Through Sunday, March 22. Noon.

Montrose Country Club presents Pink Pop Up Bar
Montrose Country Club will be turning up the color with the debut of its limited-run Pink Pop Up Bar, an immersive neon cocktail experience designed for weekend nights out, high energy brunches, and vibrant group gatherings – and no membership is required. Signature cocktails include the passion fruit-driven Show Pony, the tequila-forward Paloma Pink, and the tropical Neon Storm rum blend. 5 pm (11 am Saturday and Sunday).

AJ McQueen presents GodBody Weekend Opening Mixer
The 4th Annual GodBody Weekend, founded by Houston-based independent artist and community leader AJ McQueen, will take place this weekend with activations across Houston, culminating in a gathering at the legendary Eldorado Ballroom in Third Ward. The cultural festival is designed to inspire mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical growth, and it all starts with an opening mixer this Thursday night. 7 pm.

Friday, February 27

The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston presents Movies Houstonians Love: Perfect Days
Hirayama (Kôji Yakusho) seems utterly content with his simple life as a cleaner of toilets in Tokyo. A series of unexpected encounters gradually reveals more of his past in this moving and poetic reflection on finding beauty in the everyday world. German filmmaker Wim Wenders returned to Japan, a country that has long inspired him, to make this gentle humanist drama that earned multiple awards. Inprint Houston executive director Rich Levy will introduce this Movies Houstonians Love presentation. 7 pm.

Rice Cinema presents Le Passion de Jeanne D’Arc
Carl Thedor Dreyer’s legendary silent film from 1928 is supposedly based on the documents of her trial before the authorities, but the film is so present and alive to the world of Joan of Arc (Renee Jeanne Falconetti) that it feels like it happens in the moment. With cinematography by Rudolph Maté and an unparalleled performance by Falconetti, Dreyer’s radical construction of space and close-up reinvents the world from the ground up — painful, luminous, unforgettable. 7 pm.

Urban Souls Dance Company presents Truth Be Told
Truth Be Told is Urban Souls Dance Company’s annual Black History Month dance concert, presented by Black Arts Movement Houston. Through contemporary dance, African American vernacular movement, and embodied storytelling, the concert honors the stories, ancestors, and cultural legacies that shape the Black experience. Blending historic repertory with bold new choreography, Truth Be Told explores memory, courage, joy, and resilience, centering truth-telling as both an act of resistance and a pathway to healing. 7:30 pm.

The Catastrophic Theatre presents Katy Perry Candy Darling Mary Magdalene
In this stage production, making its world premiere with The Catastrophic Theatre, a punk elitist attempts to sell his band on a rock opera he wrote about meeting his favorite pop star. But first he has to explain why he has a favorite pop star, why it’s Katy Perry, why he wrote a rock opera about it, and how it all ties into his new look, most succinctly described as “she.” Through Saturday, March 7. 8 pm (2:30 pm Sunday).

Saturday, February 28

Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo presents Downtown Rodeo Parade
U.S. Coast Guard Petty Officer Scott Ruskan, a rescue swimmer whose lifesaving actions during the Independence Day flash floods in the Texas Hill Country earned national recognition and a commendation during the recent State of the Union address, will serve as the grand marshal of the 2026 Downtown Rodeo Parade. Ruskan will officially launch the 2026 Rodeo season at the parade, a beloved Houston tradition since 1938 that drew more than 2.7 million visitors in 2025. 10 am.

Asia Society Texas presents Indian Film Festival Houston
The Indian Film Festival of Houston and Asia Society Texas will celebrate the cinematic voices of India and the Diaspora with a fresh lineup of feature films, documentaries, and shorts. The highlight will be a screening of Phule, a feature-film biopic of a trailblazing couple who challenged caste oppression and gender inequality in British-ruled India. The screening will be followed by a Q&A with director Ananth Mahadevan. $20 for single screening; $65 for All-Day Pass. 2:30 pm.

Craft Pita and Winnie's present Habibi Night 3.0
Craft Pita is partnering with cocktail bar and grill Winnie’s for the third annual Habibi Night, bringing a lively, one-night celebration of Lebanese culture, food, and music. The menu will feature a mezze-style lineup of shareable appetizers along with sandwiches and cocktails. The evening will also feature Arabic Afro House music by Dr. House and a full hookah experience, creating a festive atmosphere that celebrates Lebanese culture through food, drink and community. 6 pm.

Houston Ballet presents Sylvia
Opening atop Mount Olympus, Stanton Welch AM’s Sylvia blends Greek mythology into a powerful story of love where three fierce women drive the story: fearless huntress Sylvia, commanding goddess Artemis, and compassionate mortal Psyche. Welch’s multilayered narrative dives between mythical and human realms as the three heroines each journey on their own path to love, leading to a tale of mayhem, mischief, magic, and romance. Through Sunday, March 8. 7:30 pm (7:30 pm Thursday; 2 pm Sunday).

Sunday, March 1

Velocity | Sim Racing Lounge First Year Anniversary
Velocity | Sim Racing Lounge is commemorating its one-year anniversary with an all-day celebration at its Sawyer Yards location. The jam-packed party will feature interactive activities throughout the day, culminating in an invitation-only All-Stars Grand Prix. The top three racers will take home year-long Velocity memberships: first place will receive the Ultimate membership, valued at $3,600; second place will receive the Pro membership, valued at $2,100; third place will take home the Racer membership, valued at $1,200. 9 am.

The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston presents Winter Festival “Year of the Horse”
The Brown Foundation, Inc. Plaza and the Cullen Sculpture Garden once again team up for the MFAH’s Winter Festival, which will get its Lunar New Year on and celebrate the Year of the Horse. The day will feature dynamic music, a performance by Taiko Drummers with Kaminari Taiko of Houston, K-pop dancers presented by Han Narea, the North America Youth Chinese Orchestra, a kung fu/tai chi demo from Shi Xing Hao Shaolin Kungfu Academy, and a giant dragon and lion dance from Lee’s Golden Dragon. 1 pm.

Goode Company presents Texas Independence Day Celebration
Goode Company and Levi Goode Brands invites folks to join them for a Texas Independence Day Celebration — an event honoring 190 years of the Lone Star State. This event is a way to honor and celebrate the bounty that Texas offers, celebrating with dishes inspired by the unique flavors of Texas. Texas-based country band The Broken Spokes will provide live acoustic accompaniment to the evening’s festivities. 4 pm.

Courtesy of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

The rodeo returns with the cook-off, downtown parade, and more.

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