The days are getting shorter, the leaves are starting to turn, and school is back in full swing. That can only mean one thing. It’s fall, y’all! Fall is a perfect time to explore Houston and take advantage of all the fun family activities it has to offer. From farmer’s markets to playgrounds, to taking a family-friendly hike, Houston has a little something for everyone. Enjoy a day at a pumpkin patch, or outside at the Armand Bayou Nature Center, or take in the wonders of the Houston Zoo. The possibilities truly are endless. As your Best Neighbors Ever, we’ve put together a list of just a few fun fall activities that you and your family can enjoy.
September
Get out your jerseys and prepare to yell because September 4th and 5th is the start of the 2021 College Football season! See the Houston Cougars go head to head with Texas Tech!
We can’t forget about Labor Day! Join family and friends in Market Square Park at the Labor Day Backyard BBQ on Sept. 6th from 4-8 pm in downtown Houston. Enjoy delicious Texas BBQ, live music, and lawn games. There’s even a watermelon eating contest where you can be dubbed the Downtown Champion.
Missing the movies? Take the kids to Movies on The Lawn in Friendswood on September 9th for a showing of Harry Potter and The Sorcerer’s Stone. The movie starts at 7 PM at the Baybrook Mall.
October
October really kicks things into high gear starting with the Buffalo Bayou Regatta on the 2nd. This is the largest canoe and kayak race in Texas with over 200 vessels participating.
Next, we have the Bayou City Art Festival which runs on October 9th and 10th. Taking place in Memorial Park, this festival is a must-attend in Houston. See over 300 national artists working in 10 different types of media.
Farmers markets more your speed? Be one of the first to visit the Brookside Villiage Farmer’s Market in Pearland! Making its debut on October 10th, this is everything you love about farmer’s markets. Support local agriculture and get your fill of fresh fruits and veggies!
If you’re a beer drinker, then the Oktoberfest Houston celebration is for you. Taking place on October 22nd and 23rd, this festival celebrates Houston beer with a German twist. The crafts and live music make this a great event for the whole family.
Ever want to go back in time? The Texas Renaissance Festival – located in Plantersville – can help with that. Starting October 9th and running through November 28th, this family fun festival will have you feeling like you stepped into the 16th century. See minstrels, comedians, jugglers, troubadours, and magicians perform across the festival grounds on 6 different stages. Enjoy delicious food and refreshing drinks while taking in the days of yore.
Did someone say “trick or treat”? Grab the kids, put on your best costume, and check out the Kingwood BOOFEST happening October 30th from 4 p.m. – 9 p.m, taking place at Town Center Park in Kingwood. Enjoy seasonal shopping, pumpkin carving, food, and, of course, CANDY!
Nothing here strike your fancy? Here are some other events taking place in October:
- Texas Contemporary Art Fair – 10/18-10/21
- Wings Over Houston Airshow (featuring the Thunderbirds and Blue Angels) – 10/9-10/10
- Original Greek Festival – 10/7-10/9
- Pearland Art & Crafts on the Pavilion – 10/9-10/10
- International Quilting Festival – 10/28-10/31
- Día de los Muertos at Sugar Land Heritage Foundation – 10/25-11/6
November
As we get ready to say goodbye to fall and hello to winter, November has some great activities to gear us up for the coming season, starting with Dia de los Muertos, November 1-2. This traditional Mexican holiday celebrates and honors the lives of family and friends who have passed on. The National Museum of Funeral History hosts an event full of celebration, arts, and crafts.
If golf is your game then you’ll have been waiting patiently for the Houston Open. Played at the Golf Club of Houston on November 8th – 14th, this is the 10th oldest PGA golf event in Houston. Watch 156 of the best golfers in the world compete to see who walks away with the $5 million-plus prize.
The Nutcracker Market takes place on November 11th – 14th and is a great way for the whole family to kick off the holiday season. Held at the NRG Center, this shopping extravaganza features vendors from all over showcasing and selling food, clothes, jewelry, holiday decor, and even furniture. You’ll find something for everyone at the Nutcracker Market.
After getting the holiday season started off right with The Nutcracker Market, enjoy the City of Houston Thanksgiving Day Parade. On November 25th, line up to see a breathtaking showcase of floats, balloons, marching bands, and live entertainment. The parade starts at 9:00 AM on Smith at Lamar, north to Walker, east to Milam, south to Pease, west to Louisiana, north to Clay, west to Smith, and north to end at Smith and Dallas.
Still looking for something to do? Check out these other events happening in November:
Have a Happy Fall
If you’re still looking for activities for your family, we encourage you to check out the calendar page at downtownhouston.org. There, you’ll find information on the events listed in this blog plus tons more activities for you and your family to do. As always, should an emergency arise while you’re out and about, your nearest Neighbors is only a short drive away.
Please note that due to COVID-19 restrictions, some activities and events might be changed or canceled.