The month of October could quite possibly be the best time of year in Houston. The weather has FINALLY cooled off and outdoor activities abound. Check out our list of great things to do in October in Houston, and get started making memories with your loved ones.
Kemah's Boo on the Boardwalk
EVERY WEEKEND IN OCTOBER
Boo on the Boardwalk is back and as hauntingly fun as ever! Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday in Kemah is action-packed with spooky and some not-so-scary events. In fact, bring the entire family as there will be arts and crafts, DJs, live music, experiences and great food! Plus, your kids can trick or treat in the retail stores from 2-8 p.m. everyday. There’s plenty to do for ghouls and goblins of all ages.
Bayou City Art Festival
MEMORIAL PARK
October 11 - 13, 2024
Bayou City Art Fest has become one of the top art festivals in the country by bringing diverse artists and works to Houston. Patrons will have the opportunity to meet artists, view original works, and purchase artwork including world-class paintings, prints, jewelry, sculptures, and more. The festival will feature live music, a food truck park, and beverage stations throughout the festival along with two entertainment stages and art installations. Don't miss this semi-annual event!
Scream on the Green
DISCOVERY GREEN
October 25, 2024
Looking for a spooky yet family-friendly way to celebrate Halloween in Houston? Scream on the Green at Discovery Green is the perfect event to get you in the Halloween spirit! Held each October, this event features a costume contest with prizes for both kids and adults, lively music, and plenty of photo-worthy moments. Whether you're bringing the little ones for some trick-or-treating or just want to enjoy a fun night under the stars, Scream on the Green is for you! Best of all, it’s free!
Zoo Boo
HOUSTON ZOO
September 27 - October 31, 2024
The Houston Zoo brings the magic of Halloween to life with Zoo Boo! This family-friendly event transforms the zoo into a haunted wonderland, complete with spooktacular decorations, boo-tiful animal encounters, and costume contests for all ages. From the littlest ghosts to the wisest witches, everyone can enjoy trick-or-treating throughout the zoo, making it an unforgettable October adventure this Halloween season!
Southern Smoke Festival
DISCOVERY GREEN
October 5, 2024
Southern Smoke Festival, presented by Alaska Seafood, is back on October 5, 2024! More than 70 incredible food and beverage pros from across the country will join the best wine, spirit, and beer producers and outstanding live music at Discovery Green in the heart of Downtown Houston. From Texas-sized BBQs to amazing raw bar tastings, you’ll get to experience some of the best from the biggest culinary names in the business! Proceeds will benefit Southern Smoke Foundation, which has distributed more than $12.7 million to F+B workers nationwide.
Annual Nigeria Cultural Parade and Festival
DOWNTOWN HOUSTON
October 5, 2024
Fall in Houston means festivals! Don't miss out on the Annual Nigeria Cultural Parade & Festival. This parade and festival brings the fun and beauty of Nigerian culture to Downtown Houston. Enjoy the sights, sounds, smells and tastes of this rich culture for an unforgettable family experience downtown beginning near Toyota Center. Word to the wise, you have to get the fantastic Jollof rice and peppered suya!
Greek Festival
ANNUNCIATION GREEK ORTHODOX CATHEDRAL
October 3 - 5, 2024
Experience the vibrant culture of Greece at Houston’s Original Greek Festival this October. Enjoy authentic Greek food, live music, traditional dancing, and explore the marketplace for unique finds. Perfect for a fun day (or night) out with family or friends, the festival will leave you saying "Opa!" on your drive home!
Wings Over Houston
ELLINGTON FIELD
October 26 - 27, 2024
Wings Over Houston is the ultimate airshow! Returning in its 40th year, the CAF Wings Over Houston Airshow, headlined by the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, will offer guests hours of aerial performances, displays of vintage aviation, interactive areas for children and adults, opportunities for guests to give back to the community and more. Visit the Legends & Heroes Autograph Tent, sponsored by United Airlines, where you can meet aviation military legends and heroes. Throughout the day, flying aces, decorated war heroes, veterans, and special guests will be present to sign autographs. Many of these living legends will also offer copies of their autobiographies and other memorabilia for sale. Don’t miss this opportunity to meet these heroes and hear their stories!
Epic End-of-Summer Staycation
With cooler weather on the horizon, now is the perfect time to savor the last of summer with a staycation at Marriott Marquis Houston. From new spa offerings to get skin glowing for the season to themed evening programming and a new “Curator of Culture” available to outline customized Houston itineraries, the downtown oasis is making the most of the remaining warm weather with unique pool offerings, spa treatments, and live entertainment. Enjoy a dip in the Texas-shaped lazy river, unwind in the infinity pool, or take a whirl in the whirlpool. Relax on the Altitude Rooftop & Pool deck in one of the cabanas, pergolas, or day beds. Repair your summer skin with PURE Spa’s new offerings. Combat the effects of sunblock, sweat, and sun damage with Pure Spa’s new HydraFacial. Enjoy Concerts Under the Stars set against the Houston skyline and celebrate legends like Sinatra and ABBA. Discover hidden gems in your own city through the Lead Curator of Culture at Marriott Marquis, dedicated to personalizing your stay with a tailored itinerary showcasing Houston's diverse cultural offerings and iconic landmarks. Check out all experiences here.
Sip Your Way Through Houston with Brew Passes
One more reason to love Houston is its growing craft beer scene. This southeast Texas city has become a haven for suds, giving you access to year-round, seasonal and limited-edition brews. Our Houston Brew passes combines fifteen craft breweries with unique flights & flavors for a hoppy tour like no other. Spend time with your friends enjoying laughs between sudsy sips. Check out the one, 30, 90-day passes here.
