The month of October could quite possibly be the best time of year in Houston. The weather has 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.
Photo by Michael Tamul
Kemah Boardwalk Craft Beer Fest
Oct. 2, 2 – 5 p.m.
Craft brews and good views are served up at the Kemah Boardwalk Craft Beer Festival. Sample over 72 craft beers from over 24 breweries including local favorites like 8th Wonder, 11 Below and Eureka Heights along with the likes of Yuengling, Truly, Shiner and more. Your tickets include beer samples, giveaways from vendors and bratwurst. There will be live music all day from bands Horizon and Midnight Release. We also recommend you purchase tickets ahead of time as the price increases the day of the festival. Military personnel and Landry’s Select Club Members receive a discounted ticket. For tips on where to stay, check out our September hotel recommendations below.
Courtesy of @discoverygreen on Instagram
Jazzy Sundays: Marlon Simon and the Nagual Spirits; The Raquel Cepeda Septat
Oct. 3, 3 – 6 p.m.
Slow it down and enjoy a Jazzy Sundays at Discovery Green. Bring the entire family for a free jazz concert that promotes learning for all ages. On Oct. 3, Marlon Simon and the Nagual Spirits; The Raquel Cepeda Septat will take the stage. Simon is known for his work as a composer and his personal approach to Latin jazz; singer/songwriter Cepeda always brings the best styles and rhythms from around the world to the refined aesthetics of jazz. Each concert will be preceded by a free workshop at 3 p.m. where kids can learn about music and instruments presented by Sam Dinkins Dinky Drum Company.
Courtesy of @lonestarflightmuseum on Instagram
Wings Over Houston
Oct. 9 – 10, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Always one of the most anticipated events in October is CAF Wings Over Houston Airshow. Bring the entire family, with proper ear protection, to this spectacular aerial show that is returning for its 37th year. Wings Over Houston is headlined by the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds and Canadian Forces Snowbirds, there will also be vintage World War II aircraft that you can tour, along with modern aviation vessels. The airshow will include hours of aerial performance, a classic car show featuring up to 100 vehicles, interactive areas for children and adults, live music by the Texas Eagles, and opportunities for guests to give back to the community.
Courtesy of @houstonartfest on Instagram
Bayou City Art Fest
Oct. 9 – 10, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
We may be talking about October, but it’s time to start thinking about Christmas. For truly thoughtful and bespoke gifts, head to the Bayou City Art Festival in Downtown Houston. This marquis art festival will feature more than 200 artists from around the country representing 19 different disciplines. Further, this year’s featured artist is oil and digital painter McKenzie Fisk. Along with amazing original art, collections, installations and exhibits, there will be live music, food trucks, and beverage stations along with two entertainment stages. Guests can enjoy Houston’s skyline views while sipping a libation in the festival’s wine garden, craft beer garden or Art Bar. The festival’s nonprofit partners will host hands-on art activities for all ages in the Active Imagination Zone. Head to the festival and buy art while giving back!
Courtesy of @namchouston on Instagram
2021 Houston African Festival
Oct. 16, Noon – 6 p.m.
Get ready to experience what makes African cultures special at the 2021 Houston African Festival. In its 8th year running, the festival celebrates the magnificent countries across the entire continent. The festival will feature local and international vendors with merchant crafts and artwork, stage entertainment including performers, Afrobeats and live ethnic music. Kids will also have an amazing experience with on-site games, African Safari themed kids’ zone, lots of dancing and a selection of cuisines from different African countries.
Courtesy of @houstonarboretum on Instagram
ArBOOretum
Oct. 23, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
This one’s for the kids! It’s time to start celebrating the spookiest time of the year. For a sweet twist on Halloween fun, head to the Houston Arboretum for ArBOOretum. ArBOOretum features fun fall activities for all ages including live animals and reptiles, pumpkin patch and decorating, a rock wall, and Houston’s only Trick-or-Treat Nature Trail. Enjoy these fall classics and so much more! The Arboretum encourages visitors to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a stroller as there will be no on-site parking but will provide additional parking and shuttle options. Be sure to book your family’s spot before the event is sold out.
Courtesy of @rosebj on Instagram
Halloween Town 2021
Oct. 30, 3 – 9 p.m.
Head to Constellation Field for a fun, family-friendly Halloween Town experience. That’s right, the annual event is back, and your kids are sure to have a blast at his not-so-spooky experience. The event is for kids of all ages and typically includes costume contests, candy giveaways, a costume parade around the stadium’s infield, live music, face painting, oversized games and balloon artists. The Sugarland Skeeters concession stands offer food and beverage purchases. For the parents that are already planning for the upcoming Christmas holidays, there are vendors in the concourse with lots of fun finds for holiday gifting. What are you waiting for? Grab your costume, candy bucket and have a great time!
Courtesy of @timewarpworld on Instagram
Time Warp World
Oct. 30 – 31
What is Halloween with paying homage to The Rocky Horror Picture Show? Take a strange journey and head to Time Warp World. Time Warp World is an all-new reimagined, interactive fan celebration inspired by cult + Sci Fi movies from the past, including all things Rocky Horror, classic Rock ‘n’ Roll records, and the referential, remixed nature of pop culture. You’ll experience the twilight zone between reality and your wildest fantasies of pure imagination. This one-night-only event immerses you in real, 360-degree immersive environments where cosplay and crazy costumes are encouraged. Be sure to grab your ticket ahead of time and let’s do the time warp again!
Where to Stay
Courtesy of @kemahboardwalkinn on Instagram
Kemah Boardwalk Inn
Heading to the Kemah Boardwalk Craft Beer Festival? For lodging, look no further than the Kemah Boardwalk Inn. This 52-room hotel situated on Galveston Bay is the perfect way to unwind near the water. Each room is outfitted with duvet bedding and nautical artwork. Most guest rooms overlook the bay or Plaza Entertainment area. Guests also have access to the outdoor pool, 24-hour business center and complimentary gated parking. Of course, you have easy access to the festival and all the boardwalk’s restaurants and shops.
Courtesy of @lemeridienhouston on Instagram
Le Méridien
For an unforgettable Halloween, head to Le Méridien Houston. On Saturday, Oct. 30, the Downtown hotel will host a Boos & Booze Halloween Rooftop Party. This exclusive rooftop party will feature Downtown views, an all-star deejay, Halloween performers, contests, and spooky surprises. Buy your Boos & Booze tickets, wear your best Halloween costume and book a night for added convenience.