weekend event planner

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

Houstonians have numerous entertainment options this weekend. Certified rock and roll legends will take the stage at NRG Stadium, and one of country music’s rising stars is performing at Toyota Center.

Sugar Land celebrates the art, and the Houston SPCA will celebrate a big birthday. On the food front, taco lovers will be heading downtown to devour bites from some of Houston’s best restaurants, and mudbug fans can make the trek to Tomball for a Cajun celebration.

Read on for details of these happenings and all of this weekend’s other best bets.

Thursday, April 25

U.S. Coins and Jewelry presents National Coin Week
U.S. Coins and Jewelry will be celebrating 2024 National Coin Week by bringing in some iconic sports talent. Several sports legends will appear at the store for autograph signings, including three-time Super Bowl champion offensive lineman (and U.S. coin ambassador) Nick Allegretti of the Washington Commanders. Also appearing will be Rockets two-time NBA Champion coach Rudy Tomjanovich, former Astros pitcher & 7-time Cy Young winner Roger Clemens, and former Astros first baseman & Hall of Famer Jeff Bagwell. Noon (11 am Friday and Saturday).

The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston presents 17th Annual Latin Wave: New Films from Latin America
The MFAH presents the 17th annual Latin Wave: New Films from Latin America. The line-up includes 10 recent releases from Latin America, including Felipe Gálvez Haberle’s The Settlers, María Alché and Benjamín Naishtat's Puan, and Kleber Mendonça Filho’s Pictures of Ghosts. Attending in person are Chilean filmmaker Matias Bize (The Punishment), Paraguayan filmmaker Sebastián Peña Escobar (The Last Ones) and Colombian filmmaker Juan Sebastián Quebrada (The Other Son). 5:30 pm (7 pm Friday; 1 pm Saturday & 1:30 pm Sunday.)

DiningOut presents Top Taco Festival
At Top Taco, festival-goers will sample unlimited taco tastes and signature tequila cocktails from some of the best restaurants in Houston, voting for their favorites to crown four categories of awards: Top Creative Taco, Top Traditional Taco, Top Vegetarian Taco, and Top Cocktail. The event features two stages of live music and entertainment, creative tequila lounge areas, mezcal tasting, and some of the best chefs and mixologists in the city. Top Taco is a 21+ and over event only. 7 pm.

Friday, April 26

The Menil Collection presents "Abstraction after Modernism: Recent Acquisitions" opening day
The Menil Collection will present "Abstraction after Modernism: Recent Acquisitions," which highlights work made by artists who have forged new paths in their approaches to non-representational art. The Menil has actively grown its collection acquiring significant works by women and artists of color. The display includes work by Agnes Denes, Suzan Frecon, Sam Gilliam, Leslie Hewitt, Dorothy Hood, Ellsworth Kelly, Rick Lowe, and Richard Serra, among others. Through August 25. 11 am.

The Happening at the Orange Show
Sound, movement, words, noise, poetry, puppetry, inventions, installations, shapes---Houston's most creative minds are highlighted each month during The Happening, with the Orange Show's sprawling campus as their stage. Curated by artist Alexandra Lechin, no two Happenings are ever the same, and audiences will never know what they'll experience. Anyone interested in presenting a piece of work or engaging audiences in an activity is invited to submit a proposal to be part of an upcoming Happening. 6 pm.

Houston Ballet presents Academy Spring Showcase
The Academy Spring Showcase will feature the Houston Ballet Academy students who represent the future of ballet, with over 60 percent of the company coming through the Academy. The showcase gives students the stage to shine – whether it's performing works from the company repertoire or ballets created specifically for them. This year’s performance includes a world premiere by former Houston Ballet soloist Ilya Kozadayev entitled Echoes. 7 pm (11 am & 4 pm Saturday).

MuXer HTX presents 19th Annual Frida Festival
MuXer HTX’s 19th Annual Frida Festival kicks off with a Frida en Primavera VIP Reception, where guests can indulge in lite bites and drinks at the open bar while enjoying live entertainment, featuring Shame on Me and a Frida pinup-inspired fashion show. At the main event the next day, guests can immerse themselves in the beauty and creativity of Frida's world. The family-friendly event will feature an arts market, entertainment, and more to honor the legacy of the iconic Frida Kahlo. 7 pm (11 am Saturday).

Saturday, April 27

Disability Comic Con
Disability Comic Con is back, and this year's theme is "With Great Power Comes Great Responsibility." Get ready for a day filled with super heroic fun, where everyone is welcome to embrace their inner caped crusader. Immerse yourself in a variety of engaging activities, including panel discussions, workshops, and cosplay contests. Meet some comic book creators, discover unique merchandise, and explore the vibrant artist alley. Don't forget to bring your own cosplay or create one on-site to truly feel like a part of this extraordinary universe. 10 am.

Houston SPCA presents 100th Birthday Bash
The Houston SPCA, the city’s oldest and largest animal rescue and protection organization, is hosting a 100th Birthday Bash for the community that will be a day filled with fun, including prizes and giveaways, live equine demonstrations in the Equine Rescue Center, a chance to meet wildlife ambassadors, Art Cars on display, free sampling at a beer garden, a coffee and lemonade bar, a live band, the Whatcha Cravin' food truck, free balloon animals and face painting, live feedings in the kitten nursery, pet adoptions, and more. 11 am.

Rails and Tails Mudbug Festival
The Rails & Tails Mudbug Festival will feature food, games, and live music. Guests can enjoy spicy boiled crawfish and other Cajun treats, along with a variety of festival foods and drinks. Vendors will be selling curated crafts and merchandise. There will even be even a “Cajun Kids’ Zone” with bouncy fun for the little ones. There will also be performances by Bayou City Brass Band, Platinum Players Zydeco Band, and The Stringbenders. 11 am.

Houston SaberCats presents UH Night
Calling all Cougars! The Houston SabreCats will extend a warm welcome to the spirited students, alumni, and supporters of the University of Houston for a thrilling evening of rugby action. Show your Cougar pride as they come together in solidarity, painting the stands red and white with fervent cheers and unwavering support for the Houston SaberCats. Make it a night to remember as they unite as one powerhouse community. 7 pm.

Kane Brown in concert
Known for number No. 1 country singles, such “What Ifs,” “Thank God,” “Heaven,” and “I Can Feel It,” the two-time RodeoHouston headliner comes to Toyota Center to support his 2022 album Different Man. He will be joined by Tyler Hubbard and Parmalee. 7 pm.

Sunday, April 28

Sugar Land Cultural Arts Foundation presents Sugar Land Arts Fest
Sunday is the last chance to catch the Sugar Land Arts Fest, a two-day festival that highlights the cultural and artistic diversity of Sugar Land and beyond. Now in its third year, the event features a wide variety of art, including painting, sculpture, photography, mixed media, glass art, woodworking, and jewelry. Attendees can also enjoy a wine and beer garden, cuisine from local restaurants, and live music during the festivities. Proceeds benefit the Sugar Land Cultural Arts Foundation. 10 am.

Houston Toy Museum presents Local Author Book Fair
Meet and greet local children's book authors in a nostalgic setting right out of a ‘90s elementary school book fair! Join the Houston Toy Museum as they welcome 10 local authors (including Zariah Cherry, Zoe Cherry, Natrix, Professor J and others) offering a variety of books for kids of all ages. They will have read-alouds from each author at different times throughout the day, plus fun activities for your children. Museum entry is just $5 and kids ages 5 and under get in for free. 11 am.

The Rolling Stones in concert
Yes, folks, it’s time for some satisfaction. You can close the weekend out by seeing the one-and-only Rolling Stones at NRG Stadium. Charlie Watts, the band’s sharp-dressed drummer, may no longer be with them (and us). But Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, and Ron Wood are still out there, rocking-and-rolling it up. They’re on tour promoting their latest album Hackney Diamonds, which features appearances from Paul McCartney, Stevie Wonder, Lady Gaga, and, yes, their dearly departed drummer. 8 pm.

Photo courtesy of The Rolling Stones

The Rolling Stones hit NRG Stadium on April 28 for the Hackney Diamonds tour.

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weekend event planner

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

Photo by Melissa Taylor

Theatre Under the Stars presents their new vision for Disney's Frozen.

Christmas is just around the corner, which means you can either crack down on the Christmas shopping or take in a few entertaining events before the relatives, the weather, and Mariah Carey takes priority in the next couple of weeks.

We have a very eclectic lineup of stuff going on this weekend: a Theatre Under the Stars production of a chilly Disney favorite; an arena polo championship; the return of an ‘80s superstar; the grand opening of a new pickleball club; and two barbecue pop-ups that’ll have you sucking the sauce out of your fingernails.

Thursday, December 12

4th Wall Theatre Company presents Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike
Vanya and Sonia, two middle-aged siblings begrudgingly named after Chekhov characters, are living an uneventful life in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. The days are filled with predictable routines until their movie-star sister Masha arrives, accompanied by Spike, her charming (and incredibly attractive) young lover. Suddenly, their dull existence is turned upside down as old tensions resurface, leading to a weekend of uproarious chaos, unexpected romance, and unforgettable moments. Through Saturday, December 21. 7:30 pm (2 pm Sunday).

Asia Society Texas Center presents Mei Rui: "Your Brain on Beethoven"
Asia Society Texas Center will celebrate Ludwig van Beethoven's birthday with an innovative concert experiment. Award-winning concert pianist Dr. Mei Rui will present live performances of Beethoven's iconic masterworks, including the “Archduke” Trio, alongside state-of-the-art Brain-Computer Interface and EEG brain dynamics data visualization revealing how the performances impact musicians' and audience members' brains. 7:30 pm.

Theatre Under the Stars presents Disney's Frozen
Enter the icy world of Arendelle, where the newly crowned Queen Elsa has accidentally set off an eternal winter. Younger sister Anna, along with Kristoff, Olaf, and Sven, sets off on a snowy adventure to find Elsa and save the kingdom. Frozen features the songs you know and love from the Oscar-winning film, plus an expanded score with a dozen new numbers by the film’s songwriters, Oscar winner Kristen Anderson-Lopez and EGOT winner Robert Lopez. Through Sunday, December 29. 7:30 pm (8 pm Friday; 2 & 8 pm Saturday; 2 & 7:30 pm Sunday).

Friday, December 13

U.S. Open Arena Polo Championship
The 2024 U.S. Open Arena Polo Championship and USPA United States Arena Handicap come to Texas for the first time. Nine teams will vie for the national championship titles and the combined $70,000 in prize money. Arena polo, compared to hockey on horseback, is a fast-paced sport where teams of three players and their mounts demonstrate their prowess and agility. Spectators are up-close to the action — hearing players communicate and feeling the thunder of hooves. 12:30 pm (2 pm Sunday).

Improv Houston presents Brian Simpson
Brian Simpson is an Austin-based stand-up comedian based in Los Angeles. His background as a foster child and Marine Corps veteran has led to a rare combination of life experiences that he manages to channel into a refreshingly unique point of view. After landing a half-hour comedy special on Netflix’s third season of The Standups, Simpson returned to the streamer earlier this year with the hour-long, shot-in-Austin special Brian Simpson: Live from the Mothership. 7:30 & 9:45 pm (7 & 9:30 pm Saturday).

Derek Hough: Dance for the Holidays
Derek Hough: Dance for the Holidays is a celebration of the most festive time of the year. Fans will get to see Hough and his cast of dancers bring holiday tunes to life through dance, from the well-sung classics to modern pop hits. Creative team and Emmy winners Napoleon and Tabitha Dumo, also known as NappyTabs (Jennifer Lopez’s All I Have, Michael Jackson: The Immortal World Tour, GRAMMYs®), will co-create, direct, and supervise choreography for the tour. 8 pm.

Richard Marx in concert
Man, Richard Marx was quite the ‘80s pop-rock troubadour, hitting us with such Reagan-era ditties as “Don’t Mean Nothing,” “Should’ve Known Better,” “Endless Summer Nights,” and “Satisfied.” (He had some cool ‘90s bops as well, including “Keep Coming Back” with Luther Vandross on background vocals.) The man who put a ring on MTV VJ/legendary ‘90s crush Daisy Fuentes will be performing those, as well as tunes from his many albums (including his latest, 2022’s Songwriter), in Sugar Land this weekend.

Saturday, November 14

Casa Pickle Grand Opening
Membership-based indoor pickleball club Casa Pickle will have its grand opening this weekend. The celebration will serve as a chance for the public to experience the club, which will be exclusive to members following the opening. Guests can enjoy sips, bites, tours, and competitive play. They can also tour the 20,000-square-foot facility, relax in the lounge area, grab a drink at the bar, or engage in Open Play pickleball on one of the nine state-of-the-art, PPA-certified CushionX courts. You can sign up for Open Play here. 6 am.

Axelrad presents KG BBQ
As we reported earlier this week, you can get barbecue this weekend from two spots that earned Bib Gourmand status in the Michelin Guide. First up, it’s Austin’s very own KG BBQ, which will have a pop-up at Midtown beer house Axelrad. The menu will include many of KG’s most popular dishes, including brisket rice bowls with smoked Mediterranean rice; smoked lamb chops; sumac-and-cinnamon-rubbed lamb shoulder, and sides such as pink buttermilk potato salad and Baladi salad. 11 am.

Stages presents Have a Nice Day Holiday Market
Join Stages for a night market of incredible food and craft vendors, music from Los Angeles DJ Lonny, lights, photo booths, karaoke and holiday filled fun for all. Vendors will include CultureMap Tastemaker Awards Pastry Chef of the Year winner Christina Au, Asteroid Coffee, Dumpling Haus, Boo’s Burger, Moe’s Vegan Bites, Elisa’s Homemade Crochet, and many more. You can also make it a day with a holiday show. Use code “NightMKT24” at checkout for 25 percent off their family friendly, fun-filled Panto Pinocchio. 4 pm.

Dawes in concert with Winnetka Bowling League
LA folk rock band Dawes, which now consists of brothers Taylor and Griffin Goldsmith (two bandmates departed last year), will be in Houston this weekend, playing music from their recently-released album Oh Brother. The new work steers Dawes decidedly forward, honoring 15 years of Taylor and Griffin’s musical relationship, as well as the next era of their band. They'll be joined by Winnetka Bowling League. 7 pm.

Sunday, December 15

Rosemeyer Bar-B-Q presents Whole Hogmas
Here’s the other barbecue spot that got the Michelin shout-out. Coming straight outta Spring, Rosemeyer Bar-B-Q will have a special menu of dishes made with smoked whole hog. The menu will include whole hog plates, whole hog sandwiches, whole hog-and-parmesan polenta cakes, and whole hog served over cheese grits with a New Orleans-style barbecue sauce, as well as sides and desserts. It’s all to raise money for Hogs for the Cause, an annual event that raises money for pediatric brain cancer research and the families who are fighting it. 11 am.

Blippi: Join the Band Tour
If you have one of those iPad-carrying tykes who love the kiddie programming that comes outta YouTube, you can watch them lose their minds when one of those YouTubers appears in the flesh. Blippi comes to Houston as part of his Join the Band tour. Blippi will be joined onstage by Meekah, their singing and dancing buddies and live musicians to explore what makes music, including sounds, rhythms, and instruments, through all of Blippi’s favorite hits. 2 pm.

Alamo Drafthouse LaCenterra presents Gremlins Movie Party
Joe Dante’s iconic holiday misadventure from 1984 continues to be a pop culture sensation, with its darkly funny story of a small-town guy who receives a furry little creature called a mogwai that ends up multiplying into a swarm of monsters that rip the town to shreds. You won’t be able to tear the place apart or ruin the theater’s electronics, but they will have all kinds of fun props available to help you get in on the action. 6 pm.

Photo by Melissa Taylor

Theatre Under the Stars presents their new vision for Disney's Frozen.

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