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

OCTOBER 13TH - 14TH

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 from 19 art disciplines 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. There will be plenty of opportunities for libations and amazing eats. 

Oktoberfest at King's Bierhaus

OCTOBER 13th - 15th

Get ready for one of Houston’s favorite Oktoberfest celebrations at King’s Bierhaus. Head to the historic Houston Heights area and enjoy lots of beer, along with time-honored Bavarian events like the strongman and strongwoman contest, as well as more modern fare like the dog costume contest. Dress in your Bavarian best for a chance to be crowned King or Queen of Oktoberfest 2023. The event will also feature live music, carnival games, a photo booth, prizes, raffles and a giveaway that includes a voucher to go to Germany to experience its Oktoberfest! Prost!

ZOO BOO!

SEPTEMBER 29th - OCTOBER 31st

The Houston Zoo brings the magic of Halloween to life with Zoo Boo 2023! 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!

JOHNSON SPACE CENTER OPEN HOUSE

OCTOBER 14th

Discover the universe at your doorstep this October in Houston! Join the excitement at NASA's Johnson Space Center Open House, where you can get up close and personal with the wonders of space exploration for FREE. From rocket displays to astronaut encounters, this event promises an out-of-this-world experience that's perfect for the whole family. Don't miss your chance to embark on an interstellar adventure right here in Houston!

Southern Smoke Festival

OCTOBER 13TH - 14TH

James Beard Award-winning chef Chris Shepherd and the Southern Smoke Foundation will host Southern Smoke Festival featuring more than 60 of the best chefs and culinary celebrities—Aaron Bludorn, Evelyn Garcia, Matt Horn, Sarah Grueneberg, plus a whole slew of Houston chefs. The weekend’s events will take place throughout the city of Houston including Hermann Park, EaDo, and Post Oak areas. 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! Tickets are on sale now, so be sure to snag them while they’re available. 

Annual Nigeria Cultural Parade and Festival

OCTOBER 7TH

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 at Root Memorial Square Park. Word to the wise, you have to get the infamous Jollof rice and peppered suya!

Museum of Illusions

ALL OF OCTOBER

Dive into a mesmerizing world of optical illusions, engaging exhibits, and art installations at the Museum of Illusions at the Houston Galleria. This isn't your average museum visit. You'll challenge your perception of reality, walk on the ceiling, and even shrink or grow in size! It's an Instagrammer's dream come true, with endless opportunities for mind-boggling selfies and interactive fun. Don't miss out on this surreal experience in the heart of Houston!

ArBOOretum

OCTOBER 14TH

This October, you won't want to miss the Houston Arboretum's annual "ArBOOretum" event! Explore the hauntingly beautiful trails, adorned with autumnal foliage, and keep your eyes peeled for creepy critters on a guided night hike. Kids and adults alike can enjoy Halloween-themed crafts, pumpkin decorating, and a costume parade through the arboretum's picturesque landscapes. 

WINGS OVER HOUSTON

OCTOBER 14th - 15th

Wings Over Houston is the ultimate airshow! This premier Houston event is dedicated to showcasing vintage World War II aircraft, along with the thrills of modern aviation, and has supported a variety of local and national charities during its 38-year history. Spread throughout the Airshow are numerous static (non-flying during the show) displays of modern aircraft along with historic war-time aircraft. Tour the inside of a massive cargo transport; examine various types of helicopters, training aircraft, experimental planes, and more! You can visit with the pilots and crew of the planes and maybe even grab an autograph or giveaway token.

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.