save the date

Free Red Bull event brings Formula 1 excitement to downtown Houston

The Red Bull Showrun is coming to Houston.

Courtesy of Red Bull

Houstonians with a passion for Formula 1 racing have to drive to Austin — and spend a lot of money — to experience the sport in person. That’s all going to change for two hours in September.

The Bayou City will be the next host of a Red Bull Showrun. Held on Saturday, September 7 at Discovery Green in downtown Houston, the free event will feature one of Red Bull’s championship-winning RB7 car flying down the streets around the park.

Best of all, it’s completely free to attend. Of course, those who want a great view of the action may purchase grandstand tickets ($50) that went on sale this morning.

Held previously in other cities without F1 races such as New York, Dallas, and Washington, D.C., Red Bull uses the Showrun to bring the sport to new fans. Although the sport traces its history to the ‘50s, it has seen a boost in popularity thanks to Formula 1: Drive to Survive, a Netflix show that offers a behind-the-scenes look at key people on each of the 10 teams. Red Bull’s Formula 1 team is riding particularly high at the moment, having won the Constructors Championship in both 2022 and 2023 on the strength of its car and lead driver Max Verstappen, who has won three consecutive Drivers’ Championship titles.

"The best part about any Red Bull Showrun is being able to bring Formula One to some fans that have already seen it, but more importantly to some who have never seen Formula One before," David Coulthard, a former Red Bull Racing Grand Prix driver who won 13 races during his 15-year career, said in a statement.

Held from 12-2 pm, the RB7 car will make a number of trips on the streets, doing doughnuts and burnouts and generally being very fast and loud. In between those runs, the Showrun will feature appearances by other Red Bull athletes and a DJ battle between local legends DJ Mr. Rogers and Chase B, who is the longtime DJ for hip hop star Travis Scott. A complete lineup of appearances will be released at a later date, according to a release.

Fans will also have access to a fan zone with food vendors, F1 racing simulators, Oracle Red Bull Racing merch, and other free activities.

For more information, including how to purchase grandstand tickets, visit the event’s website.

formula 1 red bull racing red bull showrun parks downtown discovery green

open containers for all

Houston suburb's new social district sweetens World Cup festivities

A shot of the entrance to the First Colony Mall in Sugar Land with the Cheesecake Factory in the background.

Photo courtesy of Visit Sugar Land

First Colony Mall will be part of the new Sugar Land social district.

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup nears, Houston is preparing a variety of ways to the welcome the thousands of visitors the event will draw. The latest is in Sugar Land, where city authorities announced the creation of a new social district that will open on Friday, December 5.

“The Sugar Land Social District reflects our city’s trailblazing spirit and shows how we’re ready to redefine what a vibrant destination can be,” said Elizabeth Huff, director of economic development & tourism. “By bringing together our dining, entertainment, and cultural experiences in a walkable setting, it creates a sweeter experience for residents, visitors, and groups alike, positioning Sugar Land as a great supporter to Houston as we prepare to welcome the world for FIFA World Cup 2026.”

Running June 11-July 29, the 2026 World Cup will feature games in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. NRG Stadium is scheduled to host seven matches over the course of the tournament. That includes five group stage matches, one in the Round of 32, and one in the Round of 16. Sugar Land has partnered with FIFA to earn the title of "Host City Supporter.

What is a Social District?

Basically, a social district turns large areas into a party zone where people can legally walk between various businesses and events with open containers of alcohol. Think the Wynwood Art District in Miami, Florida or the Arts District in Downtown Los Angeles, California. The lack of restrictions begets a more relaxed, party atmosphere while the focus on walkable areas adds a greater sense of community.

The Sugar Land Social District encompasses parts of the Sugar Land Town Square and First Colony Mall. It will be open Monday through Saturday from 7 am to 2:15 am and Sunday from noon to 2:15 am. The boundaries of the district will be clearly marked to prevent people from wandering outside of them and violating open container laws. The Sugar Land Police Department will regularly patrol the district.

More than a dozen bars and restaurants lie within the district, including Flying Saucer Draught Emporium, Little Woodrow's, Baker Street Pub, B.B. Italia, and others.

Social District Opening Party

The official debut of the social district on Friday, December 5 will start at 10:30 am at Little Woodrow's Sugar Land with a FIFA World Cup 2026 Final Draw Watch Party lasting until 1 pm. From 5-8 pm, the annual tree lighting ceremony will take place in the town square. Visitors who purchase beverages from three participating vendors will receive a free custom FIFA World Cup 2026 Houston and Visit Sugar Land koozie, as well as a free hot chocolate from the Visit Sugar Land cart.

“As part of our city's Strategic Action Plan and Stimulating Economic Growth All-In Initiative, this new social district isn’t just about enjoying a drink outdoors; it’s about creating a more connected and walkable community,” said Teagan Trammell, strategic and government affairs management analyst for the City of Sugar Land. “By encouraging people to explore our local restaurants and bars on foot, we’re strengthening the bonds between residents, visitors, and businesses while showcasing the vibrant culture that makes Sugar Land stand out.”

news-you-can-eat nightlife sugar land