What: The 36th Annual Art Car Parade
Where: Downtown. See parade route
When: April
 11 - April 16, 2023
Cost: Free

You don’t need a museum to see some incredible works of art during the 36th annual Houston Art Car Parade Weekend, April 11-16. With more than 250 cars, bikes and just about anything else on wheels, the Houston event boasts entries from across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, making it the largest Art Car Parade in the world.

It all began back in 1988 with the first Houston Art Car Parade, which featured just 40 cars and brought a modest crowd of 2,000 spectators. The event was so popular, it doubled in size the very next year, and drew tens of thousands of people. Not only was the parade embraced by Houston’s art scene, it became an important educational tool for schools in teaching life skills and engaging young people in the community.

In the three decades since its founding, the Art Car Parade has grown to become one of the most anticipated art events in Houston. What was once a one-day affair is now a multi-day event with fun for the entire family. 

Friday, April 14 is the much-anticipated Legendary Art Car Ball. At this ticketed event, revelers arrive in their most stunning and outrageous costumes to dance the night away and enjoy interactive art installations. The main event takes place on Saturday, April 15, where you will get to watch the colorful and creative vehicles roll on by along the parade route. Be sure to get there early for a great seat. Once the last car has had its turn in the spotlight, it’s time to really party! The weekend of activities wraps up with the Art Car Parade awards ceremony on Sunday at The Orange Show Headquarters. Winning entrants will divvy up over $15,000 in prize money.

For the full itinerary of events during Houston Art Car Parade Weekend and to purchase tickets, visit the event website.