Upcoming Events in Gulf Coast

Houston Botanic Garden, 1 Botanic Lane

To mark its fourth birthday, the Houston Botanic Garden presents “Habitat.” The exhibit—which incorporates installations created by local artists—explores the central idea of “protecting habitats protects life,” through the lens of the Gulf Coast environment. With thematic sections on topics such as fungi, dead wood, nests, and insects, “Habitat” explores the critical role that many organisms play in creating and sustaining habitats.

hbg.org

The Menil Collection, 1533 Sul Ross St.

The Menil Collection and the Baltimore Museum of Art have co-commissioned renowned British filmmaker and artist John Akomfrah to create an immersive, multichannel video installation exploring the history of civil rights-era nonviolent protests, including the Student Non-Violent Coordinating Committee.

menil.org/exhibition/john-akomfrah-the-hour-of-the-dog

Art Museum of Southeast Texas , 500 Main St.

In celebration of the museum’s 75th anniversary, this exhibition highlights the second half of the Art Museum of Southeast Texas’ legacy of nearly eight decades of community, culture, creativity, and connection. The exhibition chronicles the museum’s commitment to exhibiting contemporary artists of Texas and the region, and offers visitors the opportunity to view some of the museum’s most notable acquisitions, including Mexican folk art from the John Gaston Fairey collection and works by notable Texas artists such as José Villalobos, Earlie Hudnall Jr., Teresa Baker, Paul Manes, John Alexander, James Watkins, James Surls, and Tom Jean Webb.

amset.org

Center for the Arts and Sciences, 400 College Blvd.

A 30-foot dome equipped with a Spitz Star Ball projector along with a variety of other high-tech equipment produces the night sky as it appears to the naked eye. The show gives audiences a close-up feel for comets, exploding stars, and black holes.

brazosportcenter.org

Five Points Plaza, 100 S. Broadway St.

Discover one-of-a-kind items at Main Street Trade Days, held on the first Saturday of every month in downtown La Porte. This open-air market is a treasure trove for those seeking unique handmade and homemade goods, and a wide variety of collectibles, all surrounded by Main Street.

visitlaportetx.com

Abner Jackson Plantation Site, FM 2004 near State Highway 332

Visit the historical archeological site of Maj. Abner Jackson, the namesake of the city of Lake Jackson. Once a prosperous sugar plantation, the site was destroyed by the same hurricane that devastated Galveston in 1900. Learn about the sugar-making process of the 1840s and how convict labor replaced slave labor during the 1870s.

ljhistory.org

Palmilla Beach Resort and Golf Community, 132 Palmilla Beach Drive

Enjoy a Labor Day concert featuring Django Walker, the son of Jerry Jeff Walker who delivers laid-back Gulf Coast grooves and timeless songwriting. Headlining the show is Sundance Head, the winner of Season 11 of “The Voice” under Blake Shelton. His music fuses soulful, blues-driven country with a commanding stage presence. No coolers or outside beverages are allowed.

palmillabeach.com/summer-concert-series

South Padre Island Entertainment District, 211 W. Whiting St.

Labor Day is known as the end of summer, so why not end it with a bang? South Padre Island hosts fireworks to celebrate the three-day weekend of nonstop fun in the sun.

visitsouthpadreIsland.com/events

Menil Drawing Institute, 1412 W. Main St.

The Menil Collection has commissioned Jitish Kallat to create the eighth installment of the Menil Drawing Institute’s ephemeral Wall Drawing Series. Born in Mumbai where he continues to live and work, Kallat is a leading figure in contemporary Indian art. His work often probes the intersections of the intimate and the immense, weaving together references to history, science, philosophy, and the cosmic scale of time.

menil.org

Menil Drawing Institute, 1412 W. Main St.

The exhibition highlights paper—and its incongruous and variable characteristics—as an artistic material. Included in the show are works that present a range of processes, as well as paper sculptures and found papers that imbue a finished work with an additional sense of history and place.

menil.org

El Campo Lost Lagoon, 665 CR 451

Close out the summer at Lost Lagoon during the sixth annual Freedom Fest, a high-energy weekend packed with live music, lagoon fun, and red-white-and-blue vibes to wrap up the season in style.

eclostlagoon.com

Jim’s Pier, 209 N. Whiting St.

Anglers compete for cash prizes targeting wahoo, blackfin tuna, and dorado in this thrilling summer tournament.

visitsouthpadreisland.com/events

Victoria Community Center, 2905 E. North St.

Enjoy a weekend of anime, comics, sci-fi, gaming, and cosplay.

facebook.com/victoriafanfest

Center for the Arts and Sciences, 400 College Blvd.

Enjoy this stage production featuring a collection of songs, dances, and comedic sketches.

brazosportcenter.org

Peary Place Park, 8401 S. Padre Island Drive

Set against the scenic Oso Bay waterfront, this two-day celebration presented by The Boston Group brings together fresh Texas Gulf oysters, delicious local seafood, cold drinks, and 40-plus vendors. Catch live performances from Glen Templeton, Wade Hayes, Ashland Craft, Tyce Delk, and more on stage.

ccseafoodfest-g75moezp.manus.space

Robert A. “Bob Bowers” Civic Center , 3401 Cultural Center Drive

Food, music, and folkloric dancing highlight a day of pageants and celebration.

visitportarthurtx.com

Gulf Coast Bird Observatory, 299 SH 332 West

Watch thumb-sized hummers dart in and out of nectar-producing flowers like lantana, trumpet-vine, and honeysuckle, or spy them sipping nectar at feeders hanging from tree limbs and building awnings. See a bird-bander take measurements of a hummingbird, weigh it, and clamp a thin, number-coded band on one of its legs. There are also activities for kids, nature-themed booths, and native plant sales.

gcbo.org

Freeport Historical Museum, 311 E. Park Ave.

Experience this exhibition about local ghost stories and Freeport’s spookiest places.

freeportmuseum.com

Freeport Historical Museum, 311 E. Park Ave.

See this exhibition about the federal Bracero Program, which provided agricultural labor from Mexico during World War II, and local Hispanic history. 

freeportmuseum.com

The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, 800 Bagby St.

Meredith Willson’s six-time Tony Award-winning beloved musical comedy, “The Music Man,” marches into Houston with laughter, heart, and all the music you love. Follow the fast-talking traveling salesman Harold Hill as he cons the people of River City, Iowa, into buying instruments and uniforms for a boys’™ band that he vows to organize. Featuring songs such as “Seventy-Six Trombones,” “Trouble,”™“Till There Was You,” “Pick-a-Little,” and “Gary, Indiana,”“The Music Man” is a classic musical to be shared with every generation.

tuts.org

The Nave Museum, 306 W. Commercial St.

Experience the works of Texas artist Stella Alesi, who works with a variety of mediums including drawing, painting, collage, photography, and large wall works.

navemuseum.org

Rockport Fulton Visitor Center, 319 Broadway

The 38th annual Rockport-Fulton HummerBird Celebration offers programs with speakers, birding trips, hummer home bus tours, and shopping.

rockport-fulton.org/hummerbird-celebration

Surfside Beach Public Boat Ramp, Coast Guard Drive

Enjoy this event featuring live music, historical reenactments, food trucks, mariachi bands, and other festivities.

visitsurfsidebeachtx.org

Whataburger Field , 734 E. Port Ave.

Conquer the Coast begins at Whataburger Field and proceeds with options of 66-, 21-, and 10-mile routes for cyclists of all ages and skill levels.

unitedcorpuschristi.org/conquer-the-coast

Buckstin Brewing Co., 6280 Phelan Blvd.

Bucktoberfest is a free, family-friendly Oktoberfest celebration hosted by Buckstin Brewing Co., blending traditional German beer hall culture with southeast Texas hospitality. Expect Oktoberfest food, a ceremonial cask tapping, live entertainment, a steinholding competition, a wurst-eating contest, and an Oktoberfest costume contest showcasing lederhosen and dirndls. There’s also a kids area.

buckstinbrewing.com

Hilton Garden Inn, 7010 Padres Blvd.

This sea turtle-themed 5K run celebrates Kemp’s Ridley sea turtles. After crossing the finish line, enjoy a vibrant post-race celebration featuring an awards ceremony, photo ops with Sea Turtle Inc. mascots, a pop-up gift shop, snacks, a live DJ, and your finisher’s medal.

visitsouthpadreisland.com/events

Surfside City Hall, 1304 Monument Drive

This event, which includes a speaker and light refreshments, shines a spotlight on the importance of the Texas Navy and significant moments in its history.

surfsidetx.org

City Place Plaza, 1495 Lake Plaza Drive

Lace up your running shoes, throw on your brightest white outfit, and experience one of the most colorful mornings of the year. Color Vibe 5K invites participants of all ages to enjoy an unforgettable celebration of movement, music, and community. Unlike a traditional race, Color Vibe is a fun, untimed 5K where runners, walkers, families, and friends make their way through a vibrant course filled with colorful powder stations. Participants begin the race dressed in white and finish covered in brilliant bursts of color, creating memories (and photos) that last long after race day.

feverup.com/m/696958

The Center for the Arts and Sciences, 400 College Blvd.

The Sea Shell Searchers of Brazoria County and the Houston Conchology Society host the 2026 Texas Shellers Jamboree, a gathering that includes an annual shell show featuring various shell displays, sales, and meetings for shelling enthusiasts. If you plan to attend, you can find further details and registration forms as they are posted on the Houston Conchology Society homepage or check the Sea Shell Searchers of Brazoria County for local club information. You do not have to be a member of a Texas Shell Club to come to the jamboree, but there is a charge to attend. The Sea Shell Searchers Shell Show is free.

houstonshellclub.com

Water’s Edge Park, 602 S. Shoreline Blvd.

The Texas Food Championships isn’t just a competition, it’s where Texas flavor meets world-class ambition. As the official state qualifier for the World Food Championships, this is where the best of the best battle it out for a coveted spot on Team Texas. Category champions earn the honor of representing the Lone Star State on the biggest culinary stage in the world.

texasfoodchampionship.com

The Menil Collection, 1533 Sul Ross St.

The exhibition presents 44 prints and works on paper by the American artist Terry Winters, who draws inspiration from mathematical systems and structures of the natural world. Celebrating two groups of gifts to the Menil and organized in close consultation with the artist, the career-spanning presentation explores the importance of printmaking to Winters’s practice and its dialogue with other forms of making.

menil.org

Mike Leebron (Lions) Park, 716 CR 296 (Caney Drive)

Start with a leisurely paddle on Caney Creek then join the festivities at Lions Park, which include food trucks, beverages, auctions, an open-class car show, and family fun.

Leo J. Welder Center for the Performing Arts, 214 N. Main St.

Fall for Dance features a mixed repertory of classical and contemporary pieces highlighting the talent of Victoria Ballet Theatre. Pieces by professional guest choreographers are included.

victoriaballet.org

South Padre Island Entertainment District, 211 W. Whiting St.

Designed for both seasoned athletes and first-time competitors, the SPI Triathlon features Olympic and sprint distance courses, offering an exciting challenge for every skill level. The race includes an open-water swim, cycling, and running.

visitsouthpadreisland.com/events

Victoria Community Center, 2905 E. North St.

Celebrate Czech heritage with live Czech music and dancing, Czech food and drink, arts and crafts, games, and a country store.

victoriaczechs.org

Clayton’s Beach Bar and Grill, 6900 Padre Blvd.

More than 30,000 come to see master sandcastle builders demonstrate their abilities. The event features game vendors, food and drinks, and art booths.

visitsouthpadreisland.com

Harbor Festival Grounds, 101 Seabreeze Drive

Since 1975, the Rockport-Fulton SeaFair has been the Gulf Coast’s premier fall festival, with four days of live music, legendary Cajun cooking competitions, crab races, carnival rides, a parade, and the warmth of a tight-knit coastal Texas community.

rockportseafair.com

De Leon Plaza, 101 N. Main St.

This two-day fall festival is a celebration of all things Texas. Enjoy live Tejano and Texas country music, ballet folklórico and mariachi, a car show, a kids area, food trucks, and a shopping market.

discovervictoriatexas.com

Alamo Park, West First Street

This festival celebrates El Campo’s heritage with live music, a beer garden, food and craft vendors, a kids zone, community 5K run, shopping, entertainment, and hometown fun all day long.

Center for the Arts and Sciences, 400 College Blvd.

A 30-foot dome equipped with a Spitz Star Ball projector along with a variety of other high-tech equipment produces the night sky as it appears to the naked eye. The show gives audiences a close-up feel for comets, exploding stars, and black holes.

brazosportcenter.org

Center for the Arts and Sciences, 400 College Blvd.

Dinosaur George, a paleontologist and animal behaviorist, brings real artifacts of prehistoric life to the coastal community. His show features over 150 exhibit pieces.

brazosportcenter.org

Varner Hogg Plantation State Historic Site, 1702 N. 13th St.

Celebrate the season and learn about harvest time on a 1800s plantation. The event includes hayrides, crafts, sugar cane, and storytelling.

visitvarnerhoggplantation.com

The Clarion, 500 College Drive

Experience Shakespeare’s tragic love story through the music of the symphony orchestra.

brazosport.edu/clarion

Freeport Historical Museum, 311 E. Park Ave.

Celebrate Texas Archeology Month with sand excavations and artifacts visitors can touch.

freeportmuseum.com

Roberts Point Pier, 301 JC Barr Blvd.

Head to the Texas Coast for a full day of friendly competition, coastal adventure, and unwavering support for the officers and families of the Texas Department of Public Safety. Every cast helps the department continue its mission of providing scholarships, relief assistance, and emergency support for the DPS community. Registrations, check-ins, and weigh-ins take place at Roberts Point Marina.

portapf.org

Louie’s Backyard, 2305 Laguna Blvd.

Cyclists from across the region bike the Ride for Rotary, a scenic cycling event beginning in Brownsville and finishing on South Padre Island. Participants can choose between a 33-mile short route or a 50-mile long route.

visitsouthpadreisland.com

Art Museum of Southeast Texas, 500 Main St.

Delilah Montoya is a Latina photographer living in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Montoya’s exhibition features a curated selection of art from her recent retrospective at the Albuquerque Museum of Art and additional artwork. Examples of artworks in this exhibition include portraits from the Contemporary Casta Portraiture: Nuestra Calidad series featured at the National Museum of Mexican Art and landscapes from the Trail of Tears series.

amset.org

South Texas Botanical Gardens and Nature Center, 8545 S. Staples St.

A magical evening under the stars and among the flowers includes music and dancing with the Diamond’s Edge Band, dinner from various restaurant stations, a butterfly release, a silent auction, garden strolls through exhibits, and “magic” from San Antonio mentalist James Arthur.

stxbot.org

Old Town Park, 408 N. Alister St.

This celebration of art, heritage, and creativity by the sea showcases the cultural, artistic, and civic spirit of Port Aransas. Visitors can enjoy immersive experiences—from food and music to storytelling and the arts.

portaransas.org/event/port-a-cultural-arts-festival/5755

Assumption Greek Orthodox Church, 714 19th St.

A celebration of Hellenic culture, this event is a lively experience featuring Greek food, wine, beer, pastries, and commemorative items. There is no admission fee.

galvestongreekfestival.com

Wharton County Historic Courthouse, 100 N. Fulton St.

One of Wharton’s most delightful evenings includes shopping for art while sampling wine in a relaxed atmosphere.

whartonchamber.com

Beach Mile Marker 13, 405 W. Ave. G

The fun begins in the morning near beach marker 13. The sky comes alive with kites of all shapes, sizes, and colors. If the evening breeze is right, you might even see the beach light up with glowing night kites. Bring your own kite and join in, or just relax and enjoy the view. This fevent is open to all ages.

portaransas.org/event/fall-kite-fly-2026/5834

Victoria Fine Arts Center, 1002 Sam Houston Drive

Join the Victoria Symphony Orchestra and special guests for this family-friendly Halloween concert featuring fun and spooky music accompanied by special guests. Be sure to wear your costume.

victoriasymphony.com

Menil Park, 1423 Branard St.

The Menil Collection’s annual fall fundraiser, Party in the Park, features cocktails and culinary delights under the majestic oak trees and twinkling lights of Menil Park. Proceeds support the museum’s public programs, as well as the enhancement, maintenance, and care of museum’s art buildings and green spaces.

menil.org/partyinthepark

Various locations

This event is a prime weekend to score deals. Snag that great pair of flip-flops or that extra-special price on the must-have swimsuit you’ve been eyeing. It’s also a goof time to bring a touch of fall décor into your home.

portaransas.org/event/shoptober/5456

The Greens at the Shores, 8605 Padre Blvd.

Raise a glass for a meaningful cause, benefiting Make-A-Wish Rio Grande Valley on South Padre Island. Guests can expect curated wine tastings, flavorful bites from local restaurants, live entertainment, sponsor experiences, and inspiring stories highlighting the impact of wishes granted for children with critical illnesses throughout the Rio Grande Valley.

visitsouthpadreisland.com

Victoria Fine Arts Center, 1002 Sam Houston Drive

Join the Victoria Symphony Orchestra and special guest, Nola Richardson, as they perform “Voices of the Americas.” Hear the voices through the wide-open prairies of Appalachia, the deep South, and the vibrant rhythms of Mexico.

victoriasymphony.com

Faith Lutheran Church, Fellowship Hall, 4600 Bellaire Blvd.

Houston-area wood carvers display one-of-a-kind art and compete for awards. On display are caricature, realistic, and stylized carvings including birds, animals, Santas, and cowboys. Relief and chip carvings and pyrography are also displayed. Watch the whittling contest in the afternoon.

houstonareawoodcarvers.com/fallshow.html

Heritage Park, 1581 N. Chaparral St.

Now in its sixth decade, this is the longest continuously running free jazz festival in the world. Musicians from across the country take over the historical Heritage Park downtown for three days of live performances, artisan markets, global eats, and local flair.

texasjazz-festival.org

Freeport Historical Museum, 311 E. Park Ave.

Things get spooky at the Freeport Historical Museum at this event showcasing ghost stories and local legends.

freportmuseum.com

Gulf Coast Bird Observatory, 299 SH 332 West

Watch volunteers collect baseline data on bird populations at the sanctuary. The banding station is an excellent opportunity to see birds up close and to learn all the birds of the Brazosport area.

gcbo.org

Roberts Point Park, 301 JC Barr Blvd.

The regatta has been hosted by Lakewood Yacht Club every year since 1987. The offshore race begins in Galveston and ends with a party in Port Aransas. Whether you are new to offshore sailing, a seasoned cruiser, a serious racer, or a spectator, Harvest Moon has something for everyone.

harvestmoonregatta.com

Evergreen Cemetery, 1868 N. Vine St.

Experience live theater in a historic cemetery setting. Visit with townspeople, portrayed by actors, at their gravesites and learn about their history. The information presented is historically accurate and entertaining.

victoriapreservation.com

Beach Waterpark, 33261 State Park Road 100

This timed, chipped event rewards participants with festive perks including tacos, beer, margaritas, unique swag, and a lively mariachi band waiting at the finish line.

visitsouthpadreisland.com

Various locations, Downtown

Vibrant, heartfelt, and deeply rooted in community, this award-winning street festival features traditional ofrendas (altars), folkloric dance performances, mariachi music, art vendors, and a Walk of Remembrance. The event takes place at venues along Chaparral, Starr, Mesquite, Taylor, and Peoples streets.

diadelosmuertoscc.com

Varner Hogg Plantation State Historic Site, 1702 N. 13th St.

Take a spooky nighttime stroll through the woods to the plantation’s 1840s-era Patton Family Cemetery, and learn about mortality on the plantation during the 1800s and the dangers of the early Texas wilderness.

visitvarnerhoggplantation.com

Horace Caldwell Pier, 230 North on the Beach

With options that include a 5K, a 10K, and a family-friendly fun run, this event welcomes all to enjoy the beach views while staying active. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or looking for a family adventure, sign up for a race and help support local high school runners and sustainability efforts in Port Aransas.

portaransas.org/events/festivals-and-annual-events/beachtober/flynns-beach-run

Victoria Community Center, 2905 E. North St.

Learn about the farming and ranching industries through educational programs, classes, speakers, and exhibitors. Programs are offered for adults and children.

southtexasfarmandranchshow.com

Clute Municipal Park, 100 Parkview Drive

Drive through spooky displays, grab some treats, and enjoy the Halloween spirit from your car.

clutetexas.gov

The Rockport Conference Center , 106 S. Austin St.

The 20th annual Rockport Film Festival honors the enduring power of cinema to connect communities and cultures. International in scope yet rooted in local spirit, the festival presents an exceptional selection of independent films from Texas and around the world, celebrating the art of storytelling through diverse voices and perspectives. A red carpet party takes place Oct. 29.

rockportartcenter.com/rockportfilmfestival

The Nave Museum, 306 W. Commercial St.

Celebrate Día de los Muertos with a craft market, music, children’s fun, community “ofrendas” (offerings), and an evening procession to Memorial Square.

navemuseum.org

Center for the Arts and Sciences, 400 College Blvd.

A 30-foot dome equipped with a Spitz Star Ball projector along with a variety of other high-tech equipment produces the night sky as it appears to the naked eye. The show gives audiences a close-up feel for comets, exploding stars, and black holes.

brazosportcenter.org

The Harbor Tent at Charlotte Plummer’s, 202 N. Fulton Beach Road

The festival is a multiday celebration of Texas songwriting and live music held each fall in the coastal community of Rockport-Fulton. Featuring acclaimed singer-songwriters, intimate performances, storytelling, and waterfront venues, the festival honors the rich musical legacy of hometown legend Guy Clark while showcasing the spirit and creativity of the Texas coast.

rockportsongwriterassociation.com

Downtown

A three-day film festival showcases a variety of independent and studio films from American and Latin American cultures.

vivatexasfilmfestival.com

Riverside Park, 456 McCright Drive

Experience two days of car fun in beautiful Riverside Park. Friday includes a car meet, a cruise through Victoria, and a movie on the big screen. On Saturday, enjoy a custom car show and live music. Food trucks are on site both days.

hotrodriot.com

Center for the Arts and Sciences, 400 College Blvd.

Brazosport Center Stages presents the story of an aimless drifter who encounters a group of resilient Catholic nuns in the desert and is eventually convinced to build them a chapel.

brazosportcenter.org

Surfside Beach Public Boat Ramp, Coast Guard Drive

Enjoy this event featuring live music, historical reenactments, food trucks, mariachi bands, and other festivities.

visitsurfsidebeachtx.org

St. Michael’s Event Center, 100 Oak Drive

This holiday market has a variety of vendors and is famous for their market café cheese soup.

National Oak Park, 118 S. Magnolia St.

Shop arts, crafts, and collectibles and see antique tractors and farm equipment on display. There’s also a car and bike show, entertainment, a raffle, a veteran tribute, food courts, and kids games. Proceeds support community charitable organizations.

alvinrotary.org/novemberfest

Freeport Historical Museum, 311 E. Park Ave.

Learn about pottery making and the language of Freeport’s first residents.

freeportmuseum.com

Columbia Cemetery, Corner of 16th and Jackson streets

Learn about past residents of West Columbia at one of the most historical cemeteries in Texas, the Columbia Cemetery. Guides lead guests to graves of notable occupants.

columbiahistoricalmuseum.org

Roberts Point Park, Fred Rhodes Memorial Pavilion, 301 JC Barr Blvd.

Enjoy a vibrant community gathering featuring local farms, fresh produce, artisan goods, wellness products, handmade items, fresh seafood, and live music—all while supporting small businesses and sustainable living along the Texas coast.

portafarmersmarket.com

Harlingen Convention Center, 701 Harlingen Heights Drive

Each November, the Rio Grande Valley transforms into one of North America’s most vibrant birding destinations—and in 2026, the tradition continues with the Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival. This internationally recognized festival draws birders, photographers, and nature enthusiasts from around the globe, all eager to experience the unmatched biodiversity of the Lower Rio Grande Valley. Positioned at the crossroads of two major migratory flyways, the region offers a rare opportunity to spot species found nowhere else in the United States. Over five days, attendees can choose from expertly guided field trips, hands-on workshops, and engaging seminars led by some of the most respected naturalists and ornithologists in the field. Whether you’re hoping to glimpse the vibrant green jay, track elusive rarities, or refine your bird photography skills, the festival offers curated experiences for every level of enthusiast. Beyond birding, the event highlights the Valley’s unique ecosystems—from coastal wetlands and thorn forests to riparian corridors—while promoting conservation and environmental stewardship. Evening socials, vendor exhibits, and community events provide opportunities to connect with fellow bird lovers and explore the culture and hospitality of Harlingen. For seasoned birders and curious newcomers alike, the Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival is more than an event—it’s an immersive celebration of nature, discovery, and community in one of the most ecologically rich regions in the country.

rgvbf.org

Lake Road from Kohl’s to MacLean Park

Celebrate veterans in Brazoria County by attending this patriotic parade.

The Rockport Conference Center , 106 S. Austin St.

Silver Meltdown returns for a stylish evening celebrating the artistry, creativity, and craftsmanship of the Coastal Bend’s premier silversmiths. Held in Randall Ewing Kemper Hall at The ROCC, this annual event transforms the evening into a lively women-only experience filled with fashion, handcrafted silver jewelry, cocktails, music, and exclusive shopping.

rockportartcenter.com/silvermeltdown

Galveston Railroad Museum, 2602 Santa Fe Place

“The Polar Express” adventure comes to life when the train departs for a round-trip journey to the North Pole led by a cast of talented actors. Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, passengers relive the magic of the classic story with hot chocolate, dancing chefs, and a keepsake sleigh bell and souvenir golden ticket.

galvestonrrmuseum.org

Isla Blanca Park, 33174 State Park Road

Known for its scenic surroundings and fast, runner-friendly course, this event invites athletes of all levels to run where the shoreline meets the finish line. From the sound of the waves to the coastal atmosphere throughout the course, every mile delivers the laid-back beach vibes that make racing on South Padre Island truly unique.

visitsouthpadreisland.com

De Leon Plaza, 101 N. Main St.

Hear live country music while sampling barbecue from more than 15 barbecue joints. There are additional food trucks, and you can shop a vendor market.

crossroadsbbqandbrew.com

Sylvan Beach Park, 636 N. Bayshore Drive

The La Porte By the Bay Half Marathon starts from Sylvan Beach Park by the water, proceeding through La Porte streets and on to the Fred Hartman Bridge, one of the most beautiful and unique structures in Texas. After looping back to take on the bridge for a second crossing, the race finishes at Five Points Plaza, where the post-race party awaits with food and cold beer, awards, and good times.

runsignup.com/race/tx/laporte/laportebythebayhalf

Gulf Coast Bird Observatory, 299 SH 332 West

Watch volunteers collect baseline data on bird populations at the sanctuary. The banding station is an excellent opportunity to see birds up close and to learn all the birds of the Brazosport area.

gcbo.org

Lake Jackson Historical Museum, 249 Circle Way

Make your way around the museum as you learn about different winter holidays celebrated around the world and participate in activities and crafts to take home. Get your passport stamped in each country to be entered in a drawing to win a great prize.

ljhistory.org

Doris Williams Civic Center Plaza, 333 SH 332

Kick off the holiday season with a carnival, games, a parade, entertainment, and other festivities.

lakejackson-tx.gov

Center for the Arts and Sciences, 400 College Blvd.

This event offers an opportunity to experience planetarium shows, demonstrations, and night sky viewing through telescopes to see the moon, planets and other interesting night sky objects.

brazosportcenter.org

MacLean Park, 91 Lake Road

Participate in this race on a certified 5K course through MacLean Park in Lake Jackson. T-shirts are given to all finishers and awards are handed out to overall male and female finishers and to the top 3 finishers in all age categories. There is also a Kids 1K. Costumes are encouraged, and expect monster-themed decorations on the course.

lakejackson-tx.gov

Cinnamon Shore North, 5009 SH 361

Join the fun at Cinnamon Shore North for the Turkey and Tot Trot, featuring 10K, 5K, 2K, and 1K races. Then hang around for a fun-filled morning of food trucks, inflatables for the kids, music, lawn games, and a vendor village.

turkeytrotportaransas.com

Lake Jackson Intermediate School, 100 Oyster Creek Drive

The Lake Jackson Turkey Trot is a 5K run/walk and 10K run held on Thanksgiving Day. This event benefits the students of the Lake Jackson Intermediate Band Program.

lakejacksonturkeytrot.com

South Texas Botanical Gardens and Nature Center, 8545 S. Staples St.

Four special holiday weekends celebrate the splendors of the season with a beautiful 20-foot, fresh-cut lighted fir tree and a huge 18-foot recycled eco-Christmas tree made of green plastic bottles. Twinkling light displays, trees, Santa, hayrides, and photo cut-outs are on site for holiday fun.

stxbot.org

Center for the Arts and Sciences, 400 College Blvd.

Flood your senses with the majesty and pageantry befitting the court of Queen Elizabeth I at this holiday feast. Join the Earl of Warwick and his royal guests in the main hall of his castle for an exquisite meal and entertainment provided by the court’s troupe of players, dancers, and singers.

brazosportcenter.org

Holy Covenant United Methodist Church, 22111 Morton Road

Ring in the season with an uplifting concert filled with music that celebrates joy, gratitude, peace, and togetherness. The Lone Star Symphonic Band presents this festive experience appropriate for all ages and featuring beloved melodies and opportunities to sing along with family and friends. Make this concert part of your holiday tradition by reserving your seats early.

app.arts-people.com/index.php?show=341765

Holy Covenant United Methodist Church, 22111 Morton Road

The Lone Star Symphonic Band presents this concert that celebrates the pride, spirit, and traditions that make Texas one of a kind. “Deep in the Heart of Texas” brings audiences a program full of familiar sounds and heartfelt tributes that resonate with anyone who calls the state home.

app.arts-people.com/index.php?show=341766