Whether you’re a full-time resident or just visiting for the weekend, Houston is chock full of great things to do for the whole family. You can hang out with cowboys, take a leisurely garden stroll or even join in on a bit of revelry. Whatever your choice, you certainly won’t be bored. Check out a few favorite events happening in Houston.
Azalea Trail
March 6-8
The River Oaks Garden Club ushers in the first signs of Spring with the 85th Azalea Trail. Get a view of breathtaking scenery starting with the annual ribbon cutting at the Lazy Lane entrance of Bayou Bend. The trail will also feature the Famous Bayou Bend Home and Gardens, Rienzi Home and Gardens, the Forum of Civics building and four additional homes and gardens. The Trail runs March 6 – 8 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. Tickets are $10.
Buffalo Bayou Regatta
March 7
Have fun and get a workout in at the 48th Annual Buffalo Bayou Partnership Regatta on March 7. It’s the largest canoe and kayak race in the state of Texas, and it includes a scenic 15-mile race along Buffalo Bayou. Participants must be at least 12 years old to enter. Entry fees range from $30 - $50 and include a t-shirt and lunch (while supplies last). Entry fees do not include canoe or kayak rental.
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
March 17
The city of Houston loves a great parade, and one of the best is the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Concert on March 17. Put on your favorite green outfit, and come out to Market Square Park to enjoy the parade at noon. It’s free and open to the public. Afterward, stick around for live music, food and games as you enjoy the neighborhood bars and eateries.
Bayou City Art Festival
March 27-29
It's an explosion of art, food, music and more at the Bayou City Art Festival Memorial Park, March 27 -29. At least 300 artists will be spotlighted at this year’s three-day festival. Attendees can view and purchase original artwork and meet the artists in person. Food trucks, entertainment and a Children’s Creative Zone will be featured. Tickets range from $4 - $30.
Party on the Plaza
March 26 - May
Get ready for one of the best outdoor parties in Houston at Party on the Plaza, presented by Avenida Houston. On select Thursdays from March through May, you can enjoy free performances from local and regional bands on Avenida Plaza. What’s a party without food, beer, games and more? The fun kicks off on March 26 with the band St. Paul & The Broken Bones with the Dip.
Astros Opening Day
March 26
Come out and cheer on the home team as the Houston Astros take on the Los Angeles Angels on Opening Day on March 26 at Minute Maid Park. Thanks to the park’s retractable roof, the game will take place rain or shine at 6 p.m. inside Minute Maid.
Hermann Park Kite Festival
March 29
Big fun awaits the entire family at the 7th Annual Kite Festival, Sunday, March 29. Thousands of Houston-area residents and visitors will make their way to Hermann Park to try their hand at kite flying. Besides flying colorful kites, big and small, you’re encouraged to make a day of it by bringing blankets and snacks for an all-day picnic. The festival is 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and admission is free.
Cirque du Soleil
Through April 12
One of the most exciting performances you’ll Aever see is the very popular Cirque du Soleil. The latest installment, Alegria, is going on now through April 12 at Sam Houston Race Park. The costumes, choreography and gravity-defying stunts will leave you thoroughly entertained. Save 25% off regularly priced tickets, which start at $48.