A note regarding COVID-19
Upcoming Events in Gulf Coast
South Padre Island
Dolphin Watch Tours
Sept. 1-Dec. 31, 2025
Isla Tours, 33256 State Park Road 100
All aboard the Murphy’s Law for a 1.5-hour dolphin watch and eco tour. Cruise along the lower Laguna Madre on the 67-foot, double-decker boat, which is specially designed to allow guests to have an optimum viewing experience while on the water.
Houston
“Wall Drawing: Ronny Quevedo”
Sept. 13-Sept. 1, 2025
Menil Drawing Institute, 1412 W. Main St.
Curated by Kelly Montana, assistant curator at the Menil Drawing Institute, this is the sixth installment in the Menil Collection’s Wall Drawing Series, which began in 2018 as part of the institute’s commitment to seeking new approaches to the form and language of drawing.
“Habitat”
Sept. 14, 2024-Sept. 13, 2026
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.
South Padre Island
Port of Brownsville Tours
Oct. 1-March 31, 2025
Isla Tours, 33256 State Park Road 100
Take a 4-hour narrated tour along the Brownsville Ship Channel. See local and migratory birds, dolphins in the bay, the SpaceX launch site and Starbase city, the USS Kitty Hawk, and oil rigs from all over the world. On the way back, the tour cruises through the Port Isabel Shrimp Basin. Fresh-caught Gulf shrimp tastings are also available.
Sunrise Serenade Birding Tour
Oct. 1-March 31
Isla Tours, 33256 State Park Road 100
An hour and a half in duration, this excursion aboard the Murphy’s Law offers a brief tour of the Laguna Madre and provides a glimpse of the bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat. At the end of the tour, enjoy a breathtaking south Texas sunset.
Houston
“Tacita Dean: Blind Folly”
Oct. 11-April 19
The Menil Collection, 1533 Sul Ross St.
The first major museum survey in the United States of work by the British European visual artist Tacita Dean, the exhibition spotlights her career-defining approach to creating art through unmediated and chance-based drawing processes across a variety of mediums, from film to printmaking.
“Joe Overstreet: Taking Flight”
Jan 24-July 13
The Menil Collection, 1533 Sul Ross St.
This is the first major museum exhibition in 30 years devoted to the work of the pioneering abstract painter. Renowned for his innovative approach to non-representational painting, American artist Joe Overstreet consistently sought to intertwine abstraction and social politics.
Rockport
Billy Hassell Exhibition
Jan. 31-March 30
Rockport Center for the Arts, 204 S. Austin St.
See oil paintings and works on paper by Texas-based artist Billy Hassell.
Eric DePan Exhibition
Feb. 3-April 6
Rockport Center for the Arts, 204 S. Austin St.
Houston artist Eric DePan displays his glass works at this exhibition. An artist reception takes place on March 8.
Performing Arts Series at the ROCC
Feb. 7-May 9
Randall Ewing Kemper Hall at The ROCC, 106 S. Austin St.
The Performing Arts Series at the Rockport Conference Center offers a variety of musical artists and genres each month. This season’s lineup features Texas Trio (Feb. 7), Doc Watkins (March 14), Luke Bulla (April 11), and Bruce Robison (May 9). All shows include VIP and general admission seating, available online through the Rockport Center for the Arts website, with ticket prices and availability varying by performance.
League City
Music in the Historic District
Feb. 28-Nov. 28
League Park, 512 Second St.
Join the League City Folk Association and League City Historical Society for a beautiful night full of music and song in the historic League Park. This free, family-friendly event features 12-16 musicians from all genres. Bring a chair, grab some treats and drinks from the café, and enjoy a night of songs and stories. Spotlight artists change monthly. Come early for a song circle, called Pickin’ on Second before the 7 p.m. performance.
La Porte
First Fridays
March 1-May 2
Five Points Plaza, 100 S. Broadway St.
Experience the magic of Main Street every first Friday of the month from March to May. The historic district transforms into a vibrant hub of activity with live music, shopping, art walks, car shows, and rotating fun each month.
Port Aransas
Margarita Madness
March 1-31
Various locations
For the month of March, visitors can enjoy margaritas from restaurants all over Port Aransas. Try a classic or find a funky new favorite, each participating restaurant has put its own unique twist on the typical margarita.
Clute
Planetarium Show
March 1-29
Center for the Arts and Sciences, 400 College Blvd.
This show (check for dates throughout the month) features a 30-foot dome equipped with a Spitz Star Ball projector that reproduces the night sky, along with a variety of other high-tech equipment to give visitors a close-up feel of comets, exploding stars, and black holes.
La Porte
Main Street Trade Days
March 2-May 4
Main Street, 100 S. Broadway St.
Main Street Trade Days is a monthly event held on the first Saturday of every month. This outdoor market features a wide array of vendors selling antiques, collectibles, repurposed furniture, and handcrafted goods.
Rockport
Rising Eyes of Texas Exhibition
March 7-April 20
Rockport Center for the Arts, 204 S. Austin St.
Every year, Rockport Center for the Arts hosts a statewide, juried exhibition for undergraduate and graduate students emerging in the visual arts. Meet the artists at a reception on March 8.
Richmond
Richmond’s Farmers Market
March 7-Dec. 5
City Hall Plaza, 402 Morton St.
The market, held on the first Friday of the month from February through December (skipping July), flourishes under the canopy of old oaks and features music and food trucks. As one of the premier farmers market in Fort Bend County, it offers fresh produce from local growers and artisan goods as well as some prepared foods.
Lake Jackson
Voctave in Concert
March 20
The Clarion at Brazosport College, 500 College Drive
Voctave is an 11-member a cappella group from the Central Florida area. Members have roots in musical theater, contemporary Christian music, barbershop tunes, pop, and choral music. The group has multiple No. 1 songs and has ranked in the top 25 on Billboard Magazine’s charts.
Victoria
Robin Hazard Art Exhibit
March 21-May 10
The Nave Museum, 306 W. Commercial St.
The Nave Museum presents the vibrant and colorful paintings of Robin Hazard, a Southern Methodist University graduate with a fine arts degree in painting, drawing, and printmaking. Her work has been showcased in prestigious venues across Texas.
Lake Jackson
Eddie Montgomery in Concert
March 21
The Clarion , 500 College Drive
After losing bandmate Troy Gentry in a helicopter crash in 2017, Eddie Montgomery pays tribute on his first solo album, “Ain’t No Closing Me Down,” a 12-track project that is the first album Montgomery Gentry’s band has played on without Gentry.
Houston
“What drawing can be: four responses”
March 21-Aug. 10
Menil Drawing Institute, 1412 W. Main St.
See site-specific installations by Jillian Conrad, Teresita Fernández, Tony Lewis, and Constantin Luser, who each have an individual gallery space to explore the experimental potential of the medium.
Kingsville
Destination Weekend: King Ranch
March 22
Henrietta Center, 405 N. Sixth St.
Hear James Clement, a sixth-generation member of the King Ranch family, rancher, and former Horse Division manager talk about the ranch’s famous horses. Afterward, get a guided tour of the Henrietta Memorial Center and Museum.
Houston
Buffalo Bayou Partnership Regatta
March 22
Allens Landing, 1001 Commerce St.
The largest canoe and kayak race in Texas is along Buffalo Bayou. Tandem and solo kayaks are both welcome.
buffalobayou.org/event/buffalo-bayou-partnership-regatta-presented-by-gillman-subaru-2025
Galveston
Rob Landes in Concert
March 23
The Grand 1894 Opera House, 2020 Postoffice St.
Join Rob Landes and his sidekicks for an afternoon of music from Cole Porter. From “In the Still of the Night” to “The Tale of the Oyster,” you are sure to relish every note and lyric from this musical genius.
Houston
Leonkoro Quartett Concert
March 25
Brockman Music and Performing Arts Center, Rice University, 6100 Main St.
Witness the exceptional artistry of the Berlin-based Leonkoro Quartett performing works by Haydn, Berg, and Ravel’s String Quartet on the anniversary of his 150th birthday.
Portland
Windfest
March 27-30
Portland Community Complex, 2000 Billy G. Webb Drive
The annual family-fun festival held in the coastal town of Portland has a parade, cookoffs, the Dachshund Dash, doggie costume contest, a carnival, a cornhole tournament, entertainment, food, a beer garden, and shopping.
Beaumont
South Texas State Fair
March 27-April 6
Doggett Ford Park, 5115 I-10 South
The fairgrounds are filled to near capacity with over 250 booths dishing out exotic and intriguing dishes made for easy eating on the go. The livestock show has poultry and rabbits, and other fair fun includes a kids’ zone, petting zoo, camel and pony rides, carnival rides, relaxation stations, a school art show, photography contest, quilt show, stunt dog show, and musicians and entertainers.
Houston
Night of Ideas
March 28
Rothko Chapel, 3900 Yupon
Villa Albertine’s signature evening of arts and culture marathon, “Night of Ideas,” invites thought leaders, activists, performers, authors, and academics to engage the public in late-night discussions addressing major global issues.
South Padre Island
SPI Sprint Triathlon
March 29
The Green at Jim’s Pier, 211 W. Whiting St.
Seasoned veterans and first timers can both experience the SPI Sprint Triathlon, which includes Olympic and sprint distance courses.
Lake Jackson
Brew on the Bayou
March 29
Gulf Coast Bird Observatory, 299 SH 332 West
Sample specialty brews from local breweries as well as wines. Listen to live music, grab a bite to eat from local food trucks, and check out items in the silent auction. The beautiful wooded grounds at the Gulf Coast Bird Observatory are lit by torchlight, making it a perfect spot to enjoy the event.
Houston
Bayou City Art Festival Downtown
March 29-30
Sam Houston Park, 1000 Bagby
This festival celebrates more than 50 years of providing unique art experiences and education for the greater Houston area. As the nation’s premier spring outdoor art festival, the festival provides attendees with the opportunity to meet artists, view original works, and purchase one-of-a-kind art, prints, jewelry, sculptures, and functional art. The event also offers live entertainment, a food truck park, a craft beer and wine garden, and beverage stations throughout the festival.
Clute
Planetarium Show
April 1-29
Center for the Arts and Sciences, 400 College Blvd.
This show (check for dates throughout the month) features a 30-foot dome equipped with a Spitz Star Ball projector that reproduces the night sky, along with a variety of other high-tech equipment to give visitors a close-up feel of comets, exploding stars, and black holes.
South Padre Island
SPI Fool’s Run 5K/10K
April 4-5
Margaritaville, 310 Padre Blvd.
Dress up in your most foolish costume as you tackle a 5K or 10K run.
Clute
“A Raisin in the Sun”
April 4-6, 11-13
Center for the Arts and Sciences, 400 College Blvd.
Brazosport Center Stages presents the critically acclaimed play by Lorraine Hansberry about a Black family living on the South Side of Chicago in the 1950s.
Rockport
Sarah Hull Exhibition
April 4-June 1
Rockport Center for the Arts, 204 S. Austin St.
This exhibition features oil paintings by Tampa, Florida, artist Sarah Hull. Meet the artist at a reception taking place on April 12.
Galveston
The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain in Concert
April 5
The Grand 1894 Opera House, 2020 Postoffice St.
Formed in 1985 as the antidote to mindless pop, egocentric rock, and the indulgent bluster of the music business, The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain donned black tuxedos and began giving “concerts” in tiny rooms above old pubs. They play every kind of musical genre, from ABBA to ZZTop, Tchaikovsky to Nirvana, and bluegrass to Broadway.
Port Arthur
Cajun Heritage Fest
April 5
Robert A. “Bob” Bowers Civic Center, 3401 Cultural Center Drive
Port Arthur is the official Cajun Capital of Texas. Enjoy live Cajun music, spicy food, vendors, and dancing the night away.
Corpus Christi
Big Bloom Plant Sale [CANCELED]
April 5
South Texas Botanical Gardens and Nature Center, 8545 S. Staples St.
Bring your plant wagon and load up on thousands of plants of all kinds. There’s also specialty vendors, butterfly and lady bug releases, food trucks, and Animal Ambassadors presentations.
Lake Jackson
Abner Jackson Plantation Site Tour
April 5
Abner Jackson Plantation Site, FM 2004 near State Highway 332, behind Target
Visit the historic archeological site once owned by Maj. Abner Jackson, the namesake of the city of Lake Jackson. Formerly a prosperous sugar plantation, the site was destroyed by the same hurricane that devastated Galveston in 1900. Discover the sugar-making process of the 1840s and how convict labor replaced slave labor during the 1870s on this monthly tour.
Nature Day and Public Youth Fishing
April 5
Sea Center Texas, 302 Medical Drive
Children can participate in catch-and-release fishing, pet live reptiles, watch the Birds of Prey show, and enjoy other nature-themed activities.
Quintana
Spring Fling
April 5-May 3
Quintana Neotropical Bird Sanctuary, 814 N. Lamar St.
Spring is peak migration time, so the Gulf Coast Bird Observatory hosts Spring Fling for four weeks. Volunteers and staff are available each day to help identify the migrating and resident birds as well as keep a daily list going.
Spring
Canadian Brass in Concert
April 5
The Centrum, 6823 Cypresswood Drive
With an international reputation as one of the most popular brass ensembles today, the quintet has been impressing audiences since its formation in Toronto in 1970.
Houston
Sunday Polo
April 6-June 8
Houston Polo Club, 8552 Memorial Drive
Experience a world-class polo match, player parade, live music, expert announcing, traditional champagne divot stomp at halftime, and special trophy presentation. The onsite concession is serving a delicious Argentine/Brazilian-inspired menu and a premium bar menu.
Spring
Chelsea and Chloe de Souza in Concert
April 8
The Centrum, 6823 Cypresswood Drive
Pianist Chelsea de Souza is joined by her sister, Chloe, also a pianist and a soprano, for a dual recital.
Rockport
Ryoichi Suzuki Exhibition
April 8-June 8
Rockport Center for the Arts, 204 S. Austin St.
Marble work by artist Ryoichi Suzuki of North Logan, Utah, is on display. An artist reception takes place on April 12.
Beaumont
Neches River Festival
April 11-12
Downtown, 701 Main St.
The Neches River Festival, a Beaumont tradition since 1949, honors the city’s namesake waterway. Over the years, it has evolved into a vibrant celebration featuring parades, fireworks, riverfront activities, and a strong focus on youth.
South Padre Island
Crawfish Festival
April 11-12
South Padre Island Convention Center, 7355 Padre Blvd.
Get ready to spice things up at the second annual Crawfish Festival. Enjoy a day filled with fresh crawfish, live music, and family-friendly fun, all by the beautiful shores of the Gulf.
Galveston
Neil Diamond Tribute Concert
April 12
The Grand 1894 Opera House, 2020 Postoffice St.
This is a celebration of musical icon Neil Diamond. Matt, Jeff, and Tommy Vee, nephew and sons of the legendary Bobby Vee, join forces with their family and friends to celebrate the music from the timeless catalog of Neil Diamond. Look forward to such hits as “Cracklin’ Rosie,” Song Sung Blue,” and “Sweet Caroline.”
Victoria
Historic Homes Tour
April 12-13
Downtown, 205 W. Goodwin Ave.
A Victoria tradition, step through the doors of history as you tour around five of Victoria’s most historic homes and buildings.
Galveston
ArtWalk
April 12-Dec. 13
Galveston Arts Center, 2127 The Strand
Once a month, ArtWalk celebrates local artists by transforming the historic Strand district into a lively hub for art enthusiasts. Visit galleries, boutiques, and pop-up exhibits to see a mix of unique art pieces and discover hidden gems, meet talented creators, and support Galveston’s thriving arts community.
West Columbia
Governor Hogg’s Easter Egg Hunt
April 18
Varner-Hogg Plantation State Historic Site, 1702 N. 13th St.
Brazoria County’s largest Easter egg hunts offers games, snacks, activities, a vendor market, photos with the Easter Bunny, and thousands of eggs filled with candy or small toys to be found by children ages 12 years and under.
Lake Jackson
Bird Banding
April 19
Gulf Coast Bird Observatory, 299 SH 332 West
Watch volunteers collect baseline data on bird populations at the sanctuary. The monthly banding station is an excellent opportunity to see birds up close and to learn all about the birds of the Brazosport area.
Freeport
“The Birthplace of Selena: El Nacimiento de Selena”
April 19
Freeport Historical Museum, 311 E. Park Ave.
Selena Quintanilla lived in Lake Jackson, but she was born at the Freeport Community Hospital. Learn more about Freeport in the 1970s, and the historic hospital that many Brazosport residents call their birthplace.
South Padre Island
Easter Day Fireworks
April 20
South Padre Island Entertainment District, 211 W. Whiting St.
Enjoy Easter by the bay and watch the night light up with a fireworks display.
Corpus Christi
Birdiest Festival in America
April 23-27
South Texas Botanical Gardens and Nature Center, 8545 S. Staples St.
Spotlighting South Texas’ peak spring migration in one of the country’s busiest flyways is the Birdiest Festival in America. The festival features birding field trips, presentations, workshops, bird walks, and educational programs by Jonathan Wood of The Raptor Project.
Victoria
Victoria Symphony—Downtown Rhythms
April 24
De Leon Plaza, 101 N. Main St.
The Victoria Symphony puts on an outdoor performance, interspersed with student and college musical groups. Children love the instrument petting zoo where they can play symphony instruments.
“Romeo and Juliet”
April 24-27
Leo J. Welder Center for the Performing Arts, 214 N. Main St.
This iconic play explores the passionate romance between two star-crossed lovers. Their forbidden love unfolds against gripping drama, intense emotions, and the struggle for acceptance. Don’t miss this compelling journey of love, loss, and the ultimate sacrifice, brought to life in a captivating theatrical experience that continues to resonate through the ages.
Beaumont
409 Weekend
April 25-27
Tyrrell Park Nature Center, 3930 Babe Zaharias Drive
From the heart of Beaumont, a variety of events are planned to entertain all ages. Crawfish and Cajun foods, live music, vendors, and family-friendly activities are planned for a family-friendly weekend.
Port Aransas
Texas SandFest
April 25-27
Port Aransas Beach, Between beach mile markers 9 and 13.
See amazing feats of sand art and architecture as master sculptors from all over the world come to Port Aransas to make pure magic from the sand. This is the largest master sand-sculpting competition in the United States.
Rockport
David Everett Exhibition
April 25-June 15
Rockport Center for the Arts, 204 S. Austin St.
Rockport’s David Everett shows his wood sculptures at this exhibition, with an artist reception hosted on May 10.
La Porte
Sylvan Beach Festival
April 26
Sylvan Beach Park, 636 N. Bayshore Drive
The Sylvan Beach Festival is one of the longest-running traditions along the Texas Gulf Coast, currently in its 69th year. A full day of family-friendly entertainment takes place beginning with the Sylvan Beach Day Parade. After the parade, make your way to the park for carnival rides, food vendors, live music, inflatables, and arts and crafts vendors. As the sun goes down, hear music well into the night.
Alvin
Alvin Rotary Club Car and Bike Show
April 26
National Oak Park, 118 S. Magnolia St.
If you have an interesting car, truck, motorcycle, hot rod, or street rod bring it out. Food and drink booths are set up in the car show area. Over 125 trophies and plaques are given out for categories such as Marshal’s Choice, Mayor’s Choice, Best Bike, Best Truck, Best Car of Show, and Interact Choice.
Victoria
Victoria Symphony Orchestra—“The 1812 Overture” and the Return of Martin James Bartlett
April 26
Victoria Fine Arts Center, 1002 Sam Houston Drive
With a populist flair, the Victoria Symphony Orchestra presents American jazz, romantic piano, festive dances, and one of the most popular pieces ever written. It’s a rhapsodic dance starting in 1812.
Brazoria
Migration Celebration
April 26-27
San Bernard National Wildlife Refuge, 2547 County Road 316
Children can enjoy activities like archery, fishing for catfish, a BB gun range, bug sweeping, microscopes, touch tanks, and reptiles. Adults and children can both enjoy the “Birds of Prey” show by EarthQuest as well as the butterfly encounter tents. Qualified naturalists give tours of the refuge by marsh buggy or wagon, while guided walking tours are available to Bobcat Woods and to the largest Texas Live Oak.
Rockport-fulton
Book Festival
April 26-27
Fulton Convention Center Paws and Taws, 402 N. Fulton Beach Road
The festival brings together authors and readers to celebrate books and reading at this free, family-friendly event.
Sugar Land
Arts and Music Fest
April 26-27
Smart Financial Centre , 18111 Lexington Blvd.
Highlighting the cultural and artistic diversity of Fort Bend County and beyond, this family-friendly event enters its fourth year with live entertainment, cuisine from local restaurants, a children’s activity tent, a wine and beer garden, 100 artist booths, and live mural painting.
Houston
Lincoln Center in Concert
April 29
Brockman Music and Performing Arts Center, Rice University, 6100 Main St.
Celebrate the season’s end with superstars from the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center offering an impressive variety of trios and sextets by Bach, Haydn, Schubert, Strauss, and Tchaikovsky.
Corpus Christi
Buc Days Festival
May 1-11
American Bank Center, 1901 N. Shoreline Blvd.
Commencing with the mayor of Corpus Christi walking the plank, this pirate-themed festival has a variety of family-friendly activities like the Stripes Carnival, an indoor shopping event coined Treasure Island, multiple parades, Barbecue on the Bay Competition, and the Robotics Rodeo. Families can also attend the Professional Bull Riding Velocity Tour Finals and watch some of the world’s best bull riders compete for the championship title.
Mathis
Spring Fling—A Celebration of Native Plants
May 3
Lake Corpus Christi State Park, 23194 Park Road 25
Enjoy fun activities, guided walks to learn about the park’s native plants, educational booths, and a native plant sale.
txmn.org/st/event/vs-spring-fling-a-celebration-of-native-plants-lake-corpus-christi-sp
Galveston
Michael Feinstein: “Because of You—My Tribute to Tony Bennett”
May 3
The Grand 1894 Opera House, 2020 Postoffice St.
Featuring the Carnegie Hall Ensemble, Michael Feinstein brings to life big band celebrations and the Tony Bennett legacy. Look forward to Feinstein bringing Bennett’s iconic songs to life in a symphony of sound.
El Campo
Cinco De Mayo Celebration
May 3
El Campo Lost Lagoon, 665 CR 451
Celebrate the holiday with concerts featuring Ram Herrera, Marcos Orozco, and the David Farias Band; a fajita cookoff; the best margarita competition; a jalapeño eating challenge; family activities; and endless fun in the 650,000-gallon pool with a swim-up bar.
Clute
Planetarium Show
May 3-31
Center for the Arts and Sciences, 400 College Blvd.
This show (check for dates throughout the month) features a 30-foot dome equipped with a Spitz Star Ball projector that reproduces the night sky, along with a variety of other high-tech equipment to give visitors a close-up feel of comets, exploding stars, and black holes.
Lake Jackson
Abner Jackson Plantation Site Tour
May 3
Abner Jackson Plantation Site, FM 2004 near State Highway 332, behind Target
Visit the historic archeological site once owned by Maj. Abner Jackson, the namesake of the city of Lake Jackson. Formerly a prosperous sugar plantation, the site was destroyed by the same hurricane that devastated Galveston in 1900. Discover the sugar-making process of the 1840s and how convict labor replaced slave labor during the 1870s on this monthly tour.
South Padre Island
Shallow Sport Fishing Tournament
May 8-11
South Padre Island Convention Center , 7355 Padre Blvd.
Anglers compete to nab the largest red drum, trout, and flounder at one of the biggest and best boat owner’s fishing tournaments on the Gulf Coast.
Run the Jailbreak
May 8-11
Clayton’s Beach Bar and Grill, 6900 Padre Blvd.
Conquer the 5K course covering challenging obstacles on the sun-drenched beaches of South Padre Island. Afterwards, there’s a Texas-sized beach party at Clayton’s Beach Bar.
Galveston
Yaga’s Wild Game and Barbecue Cookoff
May 9-10
Moody Gardens, 1 Hope Blvd.
Celebrating 28 years, Yaga’s Wild Game and Barbecue Cookoff is a family-friendly, two-day event that directly benefits the Yaga’s Children’s Fund. Activities include live music, a Friday night party, silent auction, 5K run, kids’ area, and vendors.
El Campo
Crawfish and Gumbo Cookoff
May 9-11
El Campo Lost Lagoon, 665 CR 451
In addition to a crawfish and gumbo cookoff, there’s also a bloody mary contest, live music, and activities for kids.
Port Aransas
Spring Kite Fly
May 10-11
Fly It! Port A, 405 W. Ave. G
Fly It Port A hosts this open kite fly on the beach. BYOK (Bring Your Own Kite) and help decorate the sky or simply come watch the show. Flyers start setting up around 10 a.m. near beach marker 13 and fly all day weather permitting. There may even be night kites.
Spring
Axiom String Quartet in Concert
May 13
The Centrum, 6823 Cypresswood Drive
The Houston-based quartet performs “Screen to Stage,” the ensemble’s favorite movie music alongside string quartets from film composers Miklós Rózsa and Erich Korngold.
Rockport
Babes on the Bay
May 16-17
Fulton Convention Center, 402 N. Fulton Beach Road
This is the largest one-day female angler fishing tournament in the country. Women from all over Texas and across the country come together for a fun-filled weekend with live bands, vendor booths, and educational outreach.
Lake Jackson
Bird Banding
May 17
Gulf Coast Bird Observatory, 299 SH 332 West
Watch volunteers collect baseline data on bird populations at the sanctuary. The monthly banding station is an excellent opportunity to see birds up close and to learn all about the birds of the Brazosport area.
Spring
Michael Cavanaugh: “Singer-Songwriter Series”
May 17
The Centrum, 6823 Cypresswood Drive
Michael Cavanaugh unveils the “Singer Songwriters Series,” his latest creation following the acclaimed “The Music of Billy Joel and Elton John” and “A Merry Rockin’ Christmas.” The Tony- and Grammy-nominated performer is known for his lead role in Billy Joel’s Broadway hit “Movin’ Out.”
Victoria
Donny Edwards’ Elite Elvis Tribute
May 23
Leo J. Welder Center for the Performing Arts, 214 N. Main St.
Elvis impersonator Donny Edwards gives an impressive tribute concert full of Elvis Presley’s hits.
Houston
“The Space Between Looking and Loving: Francesca Fuchs and the de Menil House”
May 23-Nov. 2
The Menil Collection, 1533 Sul Ross St.
Featuring new work by Francesca Fuchs and selections from the Menil’s collection and archives, the display explores the affective power and relational histories of objects in domestic settings, especially those of the de Menil house in Houston.
Freeport
Shark Exhibit
May 24-Aug. 13
Freeport Historical Museum, 311 E. Park Ave.
At this exhibition, visitors can stand inside enormous shark jaws, see life-size models of different sharks, and learn about Freeport’s historic fishing industry.
Rockport
Rockport Festival of Wine & Food
May 24
Texas Maritime Museum, 1202 Navigation Circle
Indulge with the perfect blend of wine, music, and festivities at the 28th annual festival, hosted at the Texas Maritime Museum grounds and featuring more than 75 wines, live music, and local cuisine.
South Padre Island
Memorial Day Fireworks
May 25
South Padre Island Entertainment District, 211 W. Whiting St.
Celebrate Memorial Day weekend on South Padre Island with a fireworks display over the bay. For the best viewing spots, check out the restaurants and bars in the Entertainment District.
Corpus Christi
Beach to Bay Relay
May 31
JP Luby Beach, Intersection of Beach Access Road 5 and Eliff Road
Runners across the nation gear up to conquer one of the largest relay marathons in the country, which boasts annual participation of more than 2,000 teams. Participants begin the six-leg race on the sands of North Padre Island, make their way through Naval Air Station Corpus Christi, and end along scenic Shoreline Drive at McCaughan Park. Beach to Bay proudly honors the men and women serving in the military.
Mural Fest
May 31-June 7
Mural Fest was created to celebrate the history and culture of Corpus Christi, while enhancing the visuals in the Marina Arts District with the addition of large-scale murals. Each participating muralist has been inspired to showcase different aspects of Corpus Christi including the beach, Harbor Bridge, local pets, the Naval Air Station, tropical plants, marine life, and more. At MuralWalk, visitors can take self-guided tours to admire the vibrant murals and collect “artographs” from the participating talented national artists. Also, the festival features its monthly ArtWalk festivities, including lively block parties on Chaparral, Lomax, Peoples, and Starr streets, and park celebrations at La Retama and Artesian Parks. These gatherings offer over 100 pop-up vendors, local food trucks, and live music both on the streets and within certain establishments.
Victoria
Victoria Bach Festival
May 31-June 7
Various Locations
Artistic airector Alejandro Hernandez-Valdez leads this festival that celebrates the works of J.S. Bach and composers spanning the ages. Orchestral, choral, and chamber works are performed by local and national musicians in venues in and around Victoria.
Clute
Planetarium Show
June 3-28
Center for the Arts and Sciences, 400 College Blvd.
This show (check for dates throughout the month) features a 30-foot dome equipped with a Spitz Star Ball projector that reproduces the night sky, along with a variety of other high-tech equipment to give visitors a close-up feel of comets, exploding stars, and black holes.
Galveston
Galveston Island Revue Weekend
June 6-8
Downtown
Contestants from across the country model retro-chic swimwear echoing the good ol’ days of Galveston’s summertime history. The weekend features a classic car show and live music.
Riders in the Sky in Concert
June 7
The Grand 1894 Opera House, 2020 Postoffice St.
Grammy Award-winning Riders In The Sky have been keepers of the flame, passed on by Roy Rogers and Gene Autry, reviving and revitalizing Western music. While remaining true to the integrity of the genre, they themselves became modern-day icons by branding it with their own legendary wacky humor and way-out Western wit.
World Ocean Day Festival
June 8
East Beach, 1923 Boddeker Road
On World Ocean Day, people around the blue planet celebrate and honor the ocean. The day features interactive exhibits, art contest, live music, and other festivities.
Port Aransas
Ladies Powder Puff Fishing Tournament
June 13-14
Fisherman’s Wharf, 900 Tarpon St.
This is the largest all-female fishing tournament on the Texas coast.
League City
White Linen Night
June 14
Downtown, 512 Second St.
Wear your white and stroll the streets of the historic district while enjoying live music, artists at work, and local food and drinks.
Galveston
Juneteenth Celebration
June 14-19
Various locations
Galveston Island hosts several days of festivities for the holiday that originated here including festivals, picnics, parades, concerts and pageants, plus the reenactment of the reading of General Orders No. 3 that freed the last slaves in the South.
Corpus Christi
“Pure Imagination”
June 20-29
Harbor Playhouse, 1802 N. Chaparral St.
“Pure Imagination” is a brand-new revue featuring songs from across Music Theatre International’s Broadway Junior collection. From Broadway Junior musicals based on adored titles like “Seussical” and “Shrek The Musical” to Disney favorites like “Beauty and the Beast” and “Frozen,” “Pure Imagination” offers a fun introduction to musical revues for young performers who are new to musical theater.
Lake Jackson
Bird Banding
June 21, July 19, Aug. 16
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 about the birds of the Brazosport area.
Freeport
Fort Velasco Day
June 21
Freeport Historical Museum, 311 E. Park Ave.
This living history event commemorates the 191st anniversary of the Battle of Fort Velasco by bringing reenactors from across the state to the site to give visitors a glimpse of what life and conflict was like at the mouth of the Brazos River in 1830s Texas.
Houston
Rainbow on the Green
June 27
Discovery Green, 1500 McKinney St.
Discovery Green’s annual family-friendly Pride celebration returns to the park with an evening of performances and entertainment.
Lake Jackson
Rubber Duck Regatta
June 28
Dunbar Park, 803 FM 2004
Get out on Oyster Creek for some kayak and canoe fun. Teams compete to be one of the first 20 boats to retrieve eight different rubber ducks that are corralled along the creek, and bring them back to the starting point in order to win a prize.
Galveston
“The Addams Family—A Musical Comedy”
June 29
The Grand 1894 Opera House, 2020 Postoffice St.
Wednesday Addams, the ultimate princess of darkness, has grown up and fallen in love with a sweet young man from a respectable family—a man her parents have never met. Everything changes for the whole family on the fateful night that they host a dinner for Wednesday’s “normal” boyfriend and his parents.
League City
Fireworks Extravaganza
July 3
Chester L. Davis Sportsplex, 1251 W. League City Parkway
This family-friendly event is free and open to the public and includes a fireworks display, live-music, inflatables, and food trucks. Bring your lawn chairs or blanket to enjoy an evening with family and friends. Fireworks begin at sundown.
South Padre Island
Fourth of July Fireworks
July 4
South Padre Island Entertainment District, 211 W. Whiting St.
Celebrate Independence Day on South Padre Island with a dazzling fireworks display over the bay. Watch as the night sky lights up with vibrant colors, creating the perfect backdrop for a memorable Fourth of July celebration by the water.
Rosenberg
Family Fourth Celebration
July 4
Seabourne Creek Nature Park, 3831 SH 36 South
Celebrate Independence Day with live music, kids’ activities, and food trucks. The night ends with a fireworks show. Bring blankets, lawn chairs, and bug spray for an enjoyable evening.
Port Arthur
Fourth of July at Lamar State College-Port Arthur
July 4
Carl A. Parker Multipurpose Center, 1800 Lakeshore Drive
Watch fireworks along the Port Arthur Seawall. Family events start in the evening, so come out early.
Galveston
Independence Day Parade and Fireworks
July 4
Galveston Seawall
From fireworks over the beach to a traditional hometown parade, Galveston provides family-friendly activities to celebrate the Fourth of July.
Freeport
Fishin’ Fiesta
Juy 4-6
Freeport Municipal Park, 421 N. Brazosport Blvd.
Since 1947, anglers have been drawn to this fishing tournament each year in the hopes of catching the biggest redfish, barracuda, or any other offshore or inshore fish. There’s also lots of games, food, live entertainment, dances, arts and crafts, and a fireworks display on Saturday night.
Lake Jackson
Firecracker 4 Run
July 4
Dunbar Park, 803 FM 2004
Participate in a 4-mile run through the neighborhoods of Lake Jackson along Oyster Creek. This is a USATF-certified course.
Port Aransas
Fourth of July Fireworks
July 4
Robert’s Point Park, 300 JC Barr Blvd.
Kick off your summer family vacation with the annual Independence Day Fireworks Show at Roberts Point Park. The 25- to 35-minute show starts at nightfall.
Rockport
Rockport Art Festival
July 5-6
Rockport Festival Grounds, 1500 E. Laurel St.
A staple of the summer season on the coast, the festival features over 120 artists who sell their work to over 10,000 art buyers.
Port Aransas
Deep Sea Roundup
July 10-13
Civic Center , 710 W. Ave. A
The oldest fishing tournament on the Texas coast is sponsored by Port Aransas Boatmen Inc., an organization with an equally long and illustrious history. The tournament attracts hundreds of families and individual anglers to Port Aransas to fish, compete, and have fun.
South Padre Island
Ron Hoover Fishing Tournament
July 11-12
South Padre Island Convention and Visitors Bureau, 7355 Padre Blvd.
Anglers compete in an exciting bay tournament, with a portion of proceeds going to Make-A-Wish of the Rio Grande Valley.
Clute
“Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat”
July 11-13, 18-20
Center for the Arts and Sciences, 400 College Blvd.
This stage production is a family-friendly retelling of the biblical story of Joseph that features a variety of musical styles.
Port Aransas
Texas Legends Billfish Pachanga
July 15-19
Virginia’s On The Bay, 815 Trout St.
This tournament pioneered the concept of a video-release format, with points awarded for blue marlin, white marlin, and sailfish. All fish in those divisions are released. Targeted meat fish brought to the dock for weigh-in are dorado, wahoo, tuna, and swordfish.
Corpus Christi
“Hairspray”
July 18-Aug. 17
Harbor Playhouse, 1802 N. Chaparral St.
It’s 1962 in Baltimore, and the lovable, plus-size teen, Tracy Turnblad, has only one desire—to dance on the popular “Corny Collins Show.” When her dream comes true, Tracy is transformed from social outcast to sudden star. She must use her newfound power to dethrone the reigning Teen Queen, win the affections of heartthrob, Link Larkin, and integrate a TV network.
Lake Jackson
Bird Banding
June 21, July 19, Aug. 16
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 about the birds of the Brazosport area.
Clute
Great Texas Mosquito Festival
July 24-26
Clute Municipal Park, 100 Parkview Drive
At this fun-filled family event, celebrating its 44th year, festivalgoers can expect vendor booths with a variety of foods, arts and crafts, and other merchandise; a carnival; live entertainment each evening; and Willie-Man-Chew, the 26-foot-tall mosquito mascot that greets visitors.
Corpus Christi
“Bye Bye Birdie”
July 25-26
Harbor Playhouse, 1802 N. Chaparral St.
Teen heartthrob Conrad Birdie has been drafted, so he chooses all-American girl Kim McAfee for a very public farewell kiss. Featuring a high-energy score, plenty of great parts for kids, and a hilarious script, “Bye Bye Birdie” remains one of the most popular shows in schools across the country.
Victoria
“Footloose”
July 25-Aug. 3
Leo J. Welder Center for the Performing Arts, 214 N. Main St.
Join Theatre Victoria for “Footloose,” a coming-of-age musical based on the ‘80s film. The musical celebrates the exhilaration of youth, wisdom of listening to one another, and the power of forgiveness.
South Padre Island
Texas International Fishing Tournament
July 30-Aug. 3
South Padre Island Convention and Visitors Bureau, 7355 Padre Blvd.
Surrounded by the sparkling waters of the Laguna Madre Bay and Gulf of Mexico, Port Isabel and South Padre Island play host to Texas’ largest saltwater fishing tournament. Anglers compete in one of three divisions: bay, tarpon, and offshore.
Tomball
Tomball Night
Aug. 1
Downtown, 100 Market St.
A family-friendly festival ends with a lighted parade and fireworks. Previous festivities have included live entertainment, kids’ activities, food, drinks, shopping, giveaways, vendors, and door prizes.
Clute
Planetarium Show
Aug. 5-30
Center for the Arts and Sciences, 400 College Blvd.
This show (check for dates throughout the month) features a 30-foot dome equipped with a Spitz Star Ball projector that reproduces the night sky, along with a variety of other high-tech equipment to give visitors a close-up feel of comets, exploding stars, and black holes.
Port Aransas
Texas Legends Billfish Tournament
Aug. 6-10
Port Aransas Fisherman’s Wharf, 900 Tarpon St.
This tournament pioneered the concept of a video-release format with points awarded for blue marlin, white marlin, and sailfish. It is unique in that once you are registered in the tournament, you may depart from any Texas port. The Port Aransas weigh-in and awards allows fisherman easy access to the natural offshore structure and deep-water rigs for which this area is famous.
South Padre Island
Ladies Kingfish Tournament
Aug. 8-10
South Padre Island Convention and Visitors Bureau, 7355 Padre Blvd.
The first all-ladies tournament in Texas is divided into two divisions: bay and offshore fishing.
Victoria
“The Art of Myke Venable”
Aug. 15-Oct. 4
The Nave Museum, 306 W. Commercial St.
Texas artist Myke Venable is known for his vibrant, abstract paintings that explore color theory and geometric abstraction, characterized by bold colors, dynamic compositions, and intricate patterns.
Lake Jackson
Bird Banding
June 21, July 19, Aug. 16
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 about the birds of the Brazosport area.
Galveston
Galveston Island Shrimp Festival
Sept. 26-27
Saengerfest Park, 2302 Strand St.
Featuring some of the best shrimp gumbo on the Gulf Coast, the Shrimp Festival includes a seafood cookoff, tastings, a li’l shrimp parade, and a merchant walkabout.
