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.
“Fragments of Memory”
Sept. 20-Jan. 26
Menil Drawing Institute, 1413 W. Main St.
This selection of works from the Menil’s permanent collection explores the ways in which the past imbues the present. In their drawings, the featured artists take up commonplace embodiments of personal and collective memory, such as scrapbooks, snapshots, notes, relics, and odes, to reimagine how we might access fraught memories and contested histories.
“Out of Thin Air: Emerging Forms”
Sept. 20-Jan. 26
Menil Drawing Institute, 1413 W. Main St.
This show examines drawing as a meditative process that invites the gradual appearance of indeterminate images. Selected from the Menil’s permanent collection, the 29 drawings date from the late 1930s to the present and are united by a visual concept of forms still in the process of becoming.
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.
Corpus Christi
Holiday Hay Maze
Oct. 19-Jan. 1
South Texas Botanical Gardens & Nature Center, 8545 S. Staples St.
Bring the kids to what has become a holiday staple at the gardens. Decorated for Halloween and changing to a Christmas holiday theme at Thanksgiving, the maze is one hay bale high so parents can watch children negotiate their way through the maze.
Port Aransas
Family Beach Walk
Nov. 1, Dec. 6, Jan. 3
Horace Caldwell Pier, 230 N. On the Beach Drive
Join Master Naturalist Julie Findley on the first Friday of the month to see what wonderful treasures wash up on the beach. Family beach walks take place on the first Friday of the month through Jan. 3.
Rockport
“Standing Out”
Nov. 1-Jan. 3
Rockport Center for the Arts, 204 S. Austin St.
This exhibition features works by three Merit Artists, a group picked from last year’s Big Wave All Member’s Exhibition to have their own show.
Houston
“Homeland: Random Musings of a Native Son”
Nov. 2-Dec. 5
Archway Gallery, 2305 Dunlavy St.
“Homeland: Random Musings of a Native Son,” features new paintings and mixed media works by Harold Joiner. Joiner explores the landscapes, memories, and cultural heritage of the Southwest, offering a personal and evocative journey into his past and the continuity of life.
“Radiant Nature”
Nov. 8-Feb. 23
Houston Botanic Garden, 1 Botanic Lane
The Chinese lantern festival, with larger-than-life installations that showcase the beauty of nature and celebrate the promise of the Lunar New Year, returns with all-new displays and interactive elements.
Galveston
Polar Express Train Ride
Nov. 8-Dec. 23
Galveston Railroad Museum, 2602 Santa Fe Place
All aboard the train to the North Pole. Families are encouraged to dress in pajamas as actors bring the classic book to life.
Port Aransas
Belt Sander Races
Nov. 9, 23; Dec. 14, 28; Jan. 11, 25
The Gaff, 323 Beach St.
Belt sander racing is a longstanding tradition in Port Aransas. Head on over the The Gaff, the “Birthplace of Texas Belt Sander Racing,” to watch competitors race their power tools down the wooden rack.
Houston
Ice Rink at Discovery Green
Nov. 15-Feb. 2
Discovery Green, 1500 McKinney St.
Every winter, Discovery Green’s Kinder Lake transforms into Houston’s only outdoor ice-skating rink. Adults and children of all ages can glide beneath the glittering lights of downtown and enjoy a series of programming throughout the season—from themed music nights to discounted skate nights. The ice rink is open every day.
“Atlas” by Jen Lewin
Nov. 15-Feb. 16
Discovery Green, 1500 McKinney St.
By internationally recognized artist Jen Lewin, this interactive public art installation features a collection of 24 handcrafted and hand-painted ethereal glowing moths on a monumental scale. The creatures hang suspended from the trees of the Brown Promenade at Discovery Green and react to sound and movement of visitors. Each moth represents a unique endangered North American moth species.
Corpus Christi
Christmas Tree Forest
Nov. 23-Jan. 6
Art Museum of South Texas, 1902 N. Shoreline Blvd.
The 15th annual forest showcases 30 trees decorated by school groups and local organizations to represent a selection of award-winning classic children’s books. Visitors to the museum or website can cast their votes digitally for their favorite tree.
Galveston
Holiday in the Gardens
Nov. 23-Jan. 1
Moody Gardens, 1 Hope Blvd.
Moody Gardens hosts a winter wonderland with a Festival of Lights trail, Ice Land, an ice skating rink, holiday films, and other festivities.
Rockport
“The Big Wave”
Nov. 23-Jan. 3
Rockport Center for the Arts, 204 S. Austin St.
The annual all-member exhibition highlights Rockport Center for the Arts artists and provides a chance to stand out as a Merit Artist the following year.
Corpus Christi
Merry Days by the Bay
Nov. 29-Dec. 31
Downtown Corpus Christi, Chaparral Street
From coastal Santas to holiday markets and larger-than-life decorations, the Gulf Coast Capital offers unique holiday experiences all season long to put a jingle in your step.
Clute
Elizabethan Madrigal Feast
Nov. 29-Dec.1, 6-7, 12-15
Center for the Arts and Sciences, 400 College Blvd.
This holiday feast offers majesty and pageantry befitting the court of Queen Elizabeth I. Join the Earl of Warwick and his royal guests in the main hall of his castle for an exquisite meal with entertainment provided by the court’s troupe of players, dancers, and singers.
Port Lavaca
Nativity Exhibit
Nov. 29-Dec. 15
Red Barn , 3187 SH 35
See a collection of 700-plus nativities that come from around the world and are made of all kinds of materials. Organizers scour antique shops, flea markets, thrift stores, and estate sales across Texas to add to the displays.
Corpus Christi
Holly-Days at the Gardens
Nov. 29-Dec. 21
South Texas Botanical Gardens and Nature Center, 8545 S. Staples St.
See a 20-foot fresh-cut lighted fir tree and 18-foot recycled eco-friendly Christmas tree made of green plastic bottles, plus four smaller ones, created by environmental artist Shelia Rogers. Enjoy holiday light displays, decorated trees, visits with Santa, hayrides, a petting zoo, s’mores and hot cocoa, and photo ops.
Baytown
Art League of Baytown Holiday Market
Nov. 29-Dec. 28
Art League of Baytown, 110 W. Texas Ave.
The gallery is filled with handmade art and gift items made by local artists and crafters.
Port Aransas
Sand Santa
Dec. 1-Jan. 3
Roberts Point Park, 301 JC Barr Blvd.
Take your family holiday photo at the Sand Santa display. This giant sand sculpture is created by world-class sand sculptors and is on display for the holiday season.
portaransas.org/event/sand-santa-%40-roberts-point-park/4279
Clute
Planetarium Show
Dec. 3, 10, 17
Center for the Arts and Sciences, 400 College Blvd.
This show 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.
Aransas Pass
Illuminated Saltwater Christmas Parade
Dec. 5
Downtown, 203-360 S. Commercial St.
See floats, vehicles, ATV’s, bicycles, and walking groups lit up in this beach parade. Christmas activities include pictures with Santa, and a bike giveaway happens after the parade.
South Padre Island
Tree Lighting Ceremony
Dec. 5
South Padre Island Visitor Center, 321 Padre Blvd.
A musical performance adds extra holiday spirit to the Christmas tree lighting ceremony.
Port Aransas
Winter Wonderettes
Dec. 5-22
Port Aransas Community Theater, 2327 SH 361
The Wonderettes of the hit jukebox musical comedy return in this seasonal celebration that finds the girls entertaining at the annual Harper’s Hardware Holiday Party. The show features ’60s versions of holiday classics such as “Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town,” “Jingle Bell Rock,” “Run, Rudolph, Run,” and “Winter Wonderland.”
Rosenberg
Hollydays Market
Dec. 6-8
Fort Bend County Fairgrounds, 4310 SH 36 South
Shop with 130 merchants to find lots of new, unique, and one-of-a-kind gifts all in one place.
Galveston
“A Christmas Carol”
Dec. 6-7
The Grand 1894 Opera House, 2020 Postoffice St.
A powerful story of redemption, this production has enchanted audiences worldwide with its message of traditional holiday joy. Ebenezer Scrooge-the most unrepentant and miserly of fellows-is made to see the light as he is visited by the ghosts of his own life: Jacob Marley and the Christmas Spirits of Past, Present, and Future.
South Padre Island
Christmas Parade
Dec. 6
Padre Boulevard
Kick off the holiday season with the city of South Padre Island’s annual Christmas Parade. Watch as festive groups and beautifully decorated floats pass by on Padre Boulevard.
Galveston
Dickens on the Strand
Dec. 6-8
The Strand and surrounding areas, 25th to 20th streets
Downtown Galveston is transformed into Victorian England with roaming characters, parades, live music, and costumed vendors peddling their wares from street stalls and rolling carts. New additions include Tiny Tim’s Play Land and Shopkeeper Skills Village.
Houston
Cistern Illuminated
Dec. 6-Jan. 26
Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern, 105-B Sabine St.
Brighten up your winter with Cistern Illuminated, an immersive light and sound installation in the Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern. This annual tradition transforms the underground, decommissioned drinking water reservoir into a breathtaking spectacle, showcasing the Cistern’s repeating columns and their uncanny reflections on the surface of the water below. A unique and original soundscape follows the moving lights around the cavernous Cistern. On select dates, the Cistern Illuminated installation is accompanied by live choral performances.
Beaumont
McFaddin-Ward House Holiday Open House Weekend
Dec. 7-8
McFaddin-Ward House, 1906 Calder Ave.
Guests begin at the Visitor Center with festive refreshments, music, and children’s crafts. Next is a walk-through tour of the magnificent holiday decorations throughout the first floor of the historic house. Carolers, live music, and a visit from Santa under the twinkle of holiday lights ensure a merry time for all. Admission is free.
Kingsville
La Posada: Parade of Lights
Dec. 7
Downtown, 104 E. Kleberg Ave.
Ring in the holiday season with a festive Parade of Lights. Music, themed floats, and Christmas cheer bring a smile to everyone’s faces.
Holiday Sip and Shop
Dec. 7
Downtown, 104 E. Kleberg Ave.
Experience a wine tasting throughout downtown Kingsville while shopping small. Christmas lights line the street to create holiday spirit while visitors browse and buy gifts.
Port Aransas
Holiday In The Park and Christmas Golf Cart Parade
Dec. 7
Roberts Point Park, 301 JC Barr Blvd.
Enjoy a golf cart parade, see Santa, play games, and delight in the holiday spirit.
South Padre Island
Lighted Boat Parade
Dec. 7
Watch as boats of all sizes cruise by, all decorated in their holiday best. Designated viewing areas throughout the route offer free public viewing, and the bay sparkles with the light of these beautifully decorated boats. The route begins at Sea Ranch Marina and ends at Jim’s Pier.
Winter Wonderland
Dec. 7
Enjoy the magic of the holidays with Santa, vendors, rides, and music.
Rosenberg
Hometown Holiday Festival
Dec. 7
Downtown, 2100 Avenue G
The Hometown Holiday Festival is sure to ring in the magic of the holiday season. The event is free and open to the public. Enjoy a variety of activities, free photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, performances, vendor booths, a live ice carving show, a scavenger hunt, the tree lighting ceremony, vendor booths, and shopping.
Port Arthur
Jingle All the Way Family Fun Day
Dec. 7
Museum of the Gulf Coast, 700 Procter St.
Join Santa, the Grinch, and a whole sleigh full of activities for the family including fun crafts and games for the kids, free entertainment, and plenty of holiday photo opportunities. But watch out for the Grinch.
Lake Jackson
Abner Jackson Plantation Site Tour
Dec. 7
Abner Jackson Plantation Site, Farm-to-Market Road 2004 near State Highway 332
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.
Clute
Christmas in the Park
Dec. 7
Clute Municipal Park, 100 Parkview Drive
Come out and celebrate the holiday season with fun Christmas activities that include a lighted Christmas trail and seasonal photo opportunities.
Rockport
Tropical Christmas Festival
Dec. 7
Rockport Harbor , 100 Seabreeze Drive
Head to the Downtown Heritage District and the Rockport Harbor area and enjoy birding seminars, an arts and crafts sale, live entertainment, a pet costume contest, a Christmas tree-decorating contest, a children’s ornament workshop, a giant kite display, pictures with “Tropical” Santa, an illuminated land parade, and a fireworks show.
Baytown
Christmas on Texas Avenue
Dec. 7
Town Square, 213 W. Texas Ave.
A 27-year-old tradition, several blocks around Texas Avenue celebrate the season with a car show, vendors selling handmade gifts, music, food, the Sculpture Trail, raffles, Santa’s Playground, and Santa and Mrs. Claus visits.
Angleton
“A Lego ‘Star Wars’ Christmas”
Dec. 7-Jan. 3
Brazoria County Historical Museum, 100 E. Cedar St.
This exhibit celebrates the 25th anniversary of the collaboration of Lucasfilm and Lego. Throughout 2024, the company has encouraged brick clubs around the globe to host events dedicated to this 25th anniversary. To commemorate this global celebration, the Brazos Brick Club and the Museum host an exhibit dedicated to the “Star Wars” franchise with a festive twist. Visitors can explore the sci-fi galaxy in all its wonder as it celebrates Christmas. Lego displays include ships featured in the original films to new innovative takes on what the galaxy can hold. The museum kicks off this exciting new exhibit with a fun-filled holiday celebration on Dec. 7. Guests can visit with the club members, including master builders from the hit TV show “Lego Masters,: take part in lightsaber training, create their own Christmas cards and other crafts, and have their Christmas picture taken with a “Star Wars” figure. The museum also hosts a family-build competition in the morning, where families have an hour and a half to create their own Lego design. Entries are judged by guests and the winner announced at the end of the event. The winners ill receive a family four pack of tickets to visit Brick Fest Live in Houston.
Houston
North West Houston San Jacinto High Rollers Toy Run
Dec. 8
Honda of Houston, 10039 Huffmeister Road
The North West Houston chapter of the San Jacinto High Rollers invites everyone to celebrate the 45th anniversary of giving back to the community. A police-escorted motorcycle toy run benefits the Boys and Girls Country of Hockley. There is a free meal with registration, plus a silent auction, raffles, and entertainment.
South Padre Island
Breakfast with Santa
Dec. 8
South Padre Island Convention Center, 7355 Padre Blvd.
Celebrate the magical spirit of the holiday season with a visit from Santa while enjoying breakfast, activities, and photos.
Lake Jackson
Brazosport Symphony Orchestra in Concert
Dec. 8
The Clarion at Brazosport College, 500 College Drive
The symphony orchestra presents “A Very Broadway Christmas,” a show featuring Higgins’ “Christmas on Broadway,” Berlin’s “White Christmas,” Krogstad’s “Christmas at the Movies,” Anderson’s “Christmas Festival,” and songs from “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.”
Rockport
Christmas on the Beach
Dec. 8-Jan. 5
Rockport Beach, 100 Seabreeze Drive
The annual light display is a celebration of the season. Local organizations create displays for visitors of Aransas County to enjoy from the comfort of their own vehicles. The public is invited to stop by the Welcome Station at the Salt Water Pavilion.
Houston
Chamber Music Houston: Pavel Haas Quartet
Dec. 10
Brockman Music and Performing Arts Center, Rice University, 6100 Main St.
As part of a special U.S. tour, the revered Pavel Haas Quartet is sure to flawlessly perform a program of Mozart, Martinů, and Janáček.
Rockport
Christmas in Fulton
Dec. 11
Fulton Convention Center, 402 N. Fulton Beach Road
Create cherished memories by celebrating the holidays with live music, a meet-and-greet with Santa, giveaways, and other festivities.
A Victorian Christmas
Dec. 12
Fulton Mansion State Historic Site, 317 Fulton Beach Road
Explore a Victorian Christmas with tours inside a seasonally decorated Fulton Mansion. This night of fun also includes crafts, hot chocolate, pictures with Santa, and a special reading of “The Night Before Christmas.”
Bold Watercolor Painting with Tim Saternow
Dec. 12-14
Rockport Center for the Arts, 204 S. Austin St.
The Rockport Center for the Arts offers this workshop with American painter Tim Saternow, who is best known for his watercolors that capture the grittiness of New York City.
Lake Jackson
Sara Evans in Concert
Dec. 13
The Clarion at Brazosport College, 500 College Drive
One of country radio’s most-played female artists over the last two decades, Sara Evans has carved a successful career anchored by her insightful songwriting and warm, evocative voice.
Freeport
Holiday on the Brazos
Dec. 13
Freeport Municipal Park, 421 N. Brazosport Blvd.
Enjoy holiday festivities on the banks of the Old Brazos River, with a special appearance from Santa Claus and a lighted boat parade that fills you with Christmas spirit.
Port Aransas
Santa Soiree: Holiday Shoparound
Dec. 13-15
Various locations
Shop local this holiday season. Gifts galore are waiting for you at Port Aransas shops and boutiques...and at great prices. Find many fun and whimsical treasures and the perfect gifts for your family and friends.
Lake Jackson
Christmas with the Fishes
Dec. 14
Sea Center Texas, 302 Medical Drive
“Sandy Claws” dives with the Sea Center Texas fishes to find out their Christmas wishes and to make sure the aquarium gets a good cleaning in preparation for Santa’s Christmas visit. Children can drop off their letters to Santa, and Sandy Claws makes sure they get delivered to the North Pole.
Surfside Beach
Island of Nighttime Kites
Dec. 14
Stahlman Park, 2211 Bluewater Highway
All ages can enjoy watching the Surfside Flyers Kite Club light up the sky with their enormous LED kites.
West Columbia
Candlelight Christmas
Dec. 14
Varner-Hogg Plantation State Historical Site, 1702 N. 13th St.
Tour the plantation house to discover Christmas in the 1800s. Relax outside and sip the beverage of the season, wassail, and Christmas cookies. Enjoy live entertainment, children’s activities, and a special visit from Santa. Visitors can also shop for gifts at Santa’s Market.
Port Arthur
Holiday Parade
Dec. 14
Downtown
Get in the holiday spirit in the Cajun Capital of Texas with a downtown lighted parade that showcases the diverse cultures of the city. The parade route goes along Procter Street and ends at Houston Avenue.
A Very Marshy Christmas
Dec. 14
Sea Rim State Park , 19335 Gulfway Drive
Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive at Sea Rim State Park by airboat. Join them for cocoa, crafts, and photo opportunites.
Port Aransas
Santa Soiree: Lighted Boat Parade and Drone Show
Dec. 14
Port Aransas Fisherman’s Wharf, 900 Tarpon St.
Watch City Marina and the night sky come to life with a parade featuring holiday-decorated boats followed by the second annual Holiday Drone Show. The Dunebillies, who play eclectic rock from the 1960s to the ‘90s, provide holiday entertainment.
portaransas.org/event/lighted-boat-parade-%26-holiday-drone-show/3706/
Rockport
Downtown Farmers Market
Dec. 14, Jan. 11, Feb. 8
Downtown , 105 S. Austin St.
Held every second Saturday of the month, the market offers vendor exhibits featuring locally grown produce, jams, jellies, pickled items, fresh baked bread, local honey, hen fruit, and freshly made goat soap.
Makers Market
Dec. 14, Jan. 11, Feb. 8
Downtown , 302 S Austin St.
Find handmade items from local artists and fun, one-of-a kind home décor at the local outdoor market held the second Saturday of every month.
Austin Street Art Walk
Dec. 14, Jan. 11, Feb. 8
Rockport Center for the Arts, 204 S. Austin St.
Rockport Center for the Arts presents this art walk that offers an ever-changing mix of participants representing various art mediums such as painting, pottery, jewelry, photography, and textiles, as well as live music, artist demonstrations, and food.
Second Saturday in the District
Dec. 14, Jan. 11, Feb. 8
Downtown , South Austin Street
The Rockport District hosts Second Saturday every month with live music and special themes to enjoy along with the Artwalk, Farmers Market, and Makers Market.
rockportculturalartsdistrict.com/event/second-saturday-art-walk
Lighted Boat Parade
Dec. 14
Rockport Harbor , 100 Seabreeze Drive
The Rockport Yacht Club organizes this annual lighted Christmas Boat Parade that starts at sundown at the entrance to Rockport Harbor.
“Tis the Season”
Dec. 15
Martha Luigi Auditorium, 1803 Omohundro St.
Experience holiday magic as the Corpus Christi Symphony Orchestra collaborates with the Rockort-Fulton High School Pirate Chorale for an afternoon filled with music and merriment.
Rockport-fulton
Market Days
Dec. 20-22, Jan. 17-19, Feb. 14-16
Rockport Festival Grounds at Rockport Harbor, 100 Seabreeze Drive
At this pet-friendly market, enjoy live music throughout the weekend, over 100 vendors, over a dozen food trucks and food vendors, and seating under the shade.
Galveston
A Prairie Home Companion Christmas
Dec. 21
The Grand 1894 Opera House, 2020 Postoffice St.
Some people believe in the story of Christmas in terms of Jesus being born. Other people don’t believe this, but enjoy being with those who do for camaraderie. Join in for an evening of holiday cheer with stories and songs about love, family, and a Christmas singalong.
Surfside Beach
Surfing Santas
Dec. 21
Surfside Beach Pedestrian Beach, Whelk Drive
See a bunch of Santas and their helpers take part in the holiday tradition of catching waves and hanging ten.
Lake Jackson
Bird Banding
Dec. 21
Gulf Coast Bird Observatory, 299 SH 332 West
Watch volunteers collect baseline data on bird populations at the sanctuary. The monthly banding station events are an excellent opportunity to see birds up close and to learn all the birds of the Brazosport area.
West Columbia
Yuletide Cheer: The History of Wassail
Dec. 21
Varner-Hogg Plantation State Historical Site, 1702 N. 13th. St.
Staff members at the Varner-Hogg Plantation State Historic Site explain the history of wassail, a drink traditionally made from cider and spices and served during the Christmas season. You can even try a sample during your visit.
Spring
“Uptown: A Celebration of Motown and Soul”
Dec. 31
The Centrum, 6823 Cypresswood Drive
Fusing Bruno Mars-caliber stage presence with top-tier vocals and wall-to-wall choreography, the men of Uptown combine the smooth stylings of R&B with the fresh hits of today in a unique and modern show that gets every crowd on their feet.
Port Aransas
New Year’s Eve Fireworks
Dec. 31
Roberts Point Park, 301 JC Barr Blvd.
Watch the night sky light up with brilliant colors as Port Aransas celebrates New Year’s Eve with a big fireworks show.
Corpus Christi
Polar Bear Plunge
Jan. 1
Emerald Beach Hotel, 1102 S. Shoreline Blvd.
A New Year’s Day Polar Bear Plunge is an annual tradition shared by communities around the country and the world. Registration includes a souvenir T-shirt or embroidered hat, a decal, a drink, and access to the post-plunge hot tub and snack buffet.
Port Arthur
First Day Hike
Jan. 1
Sea Rim State Park , 19335 S. Gulfway Drive
Join park staff and the Sabine-Neches chapter of the Texas Master Naturalists for a hike on the beach to get the year started. For the truly brave, come prepared to get wet and join park rangers and Master Naturalists in a polar plunge, Southeast Texas-style. After the hike, enjoy a small snack of traditional cabbage, cornbread, and black-eyed peas for some good luck.
Surfside Beach
Polar Plunge
Jan. 1
Surfside Beach Pedestrian Beach
Start the new year off right and join others as they take a cold and refreshing dip in the Gulf. You get nothing but bragging rights.
Port Aransas
First Friday at the Art Center
Jan. 3, Feb. 7
Port Aransas Art Center, 104 N. Alister St.
The Port Aransas Art Center invites art enthusiasts to see the latest exhibits and attend a reception with artists, live music, and refreshments on the first Friday of every month.
Galveston
Marilyn Maye in Concert
Jan. 4
The Grand 1894 Opera House, 2020 Postoffice St.
A timeless icon who has been entertaining audiences for over eight decades, singer Marilyn Maye is thrilled to be at The Grand to help celebrate the theater’s 130th birthday.
Lake Jackson
Abner Jackson Plantation Site Tour
Jan. 4
Abner Jackson Plantation Site, Farm-to-Market Road 2004 near State Highway 332
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.
Corpus Christi
“The Book of Mormon”
Jan. 6
American Bank Center, 1901 N. Shoreline Blvd.
“The Book of Mormon” is a musical comedy with music, lyrics, and book by Trey Parker, Robert Lopez, and Matt Stone. The story follows two missionaries of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as they attempt to preach the faith to the inhabitants of a remote Ugandan village.
Houston
Bumper Cars on Ice
Jan. 6-19
Discovery Green, 1500 McKinney St.
Slip, slide, twirl, and crash with Bumper Cars on Ice at Discovery Green. This timeless amusement ride gets an updated twist at Houston’s only outdoor ice skating rink. No license or experience needed to drive.
Clute
Planetarium Show
Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28
Center for the Arts and Sciences, 400 College Blvd.
This show 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.
Rockport
Gospel Music Festival
Jan. 10-11
First Baptist Church, 1515 N. Live Oak St.
At this annual event sponsored by Rockport’s Gospel Force, Southern gospel groups from around the country perform. Admission is free but donations of canned or boxed foods in plastic bags are requested.
West Columbia
Roots of Healing: Peppermint Tea
Jan. 11, 25; Feb. 8, 22
Varner-Hogg Plantation State Historical Site, 1702 N. 13th.
Learn about Judah Smith, an enslaved woman who was the plantation cook and a medicinal herb expert who used herbs and teas to treat other enslaved people. During the event, you can try the different types of herbal teas and remedies used by the enslaved people.
Galveston
“Insights Into Early Surgery”
Jan. 16
Moody Medical Library, 914 Market St.
Visit the first medical school west of the Mississippi and be fascinated by Tom Lea’s dramatic painting of the first recorded surgical operation in North America.
“Ain’t Too Proud–The Life and Times of The Temptations”
Jan. 17-18
The Grand 1894 Opera House, 2020 Postoffice St.
This smash-hit Broadway musical that follows The Temptations’ extraordinary journey from the streets of Detroit to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is the story of brotherhood, family, loyalty, and betrayal during a decade of civil unrest in America.
Port Aransas
Restaurant Week
Jan. 17-Feb. 2
Various locations
Port Aransas has been Texas’ premier beach destination for generations. Now you’re invited to take a break from the sand and surf to dive into the island’s unique local culture with Restaurant Week. There’s no ticket purchase necessary, simply select the prix-fixe menus that catch your eye and enjoy all the delicious dishes this island has to offer.
Galveston
Yaga’s Chili Quest and Beer Fest
Jan. 18
Historic Strand District, 2302 Strand St.
At this celebration of all things chili and beer, attendees can stroll the historic Strand District and sample chili from participating cook teams; choose from over 100 beers to sample at the Indoor Beer Fest; participate in the Beerfoot Beer Run 5k or cornhole tournament; and enjoy live music and the Strand Merchant Walkabout.
Lake Jackson
Bird Banding
Jan. 18
Gulf Coast Bird Observatory, 299 SH 332 West
Watch volunteers collect baseline data on bird populations at the sanctuary. The monthly banding station events are an excellent opportunity to see birds up close and to learn all the birds of the Brazosport area.
Brazoria
Preserving Heritage: Photography Workshop
Jan. 18
Levi Jordan Plantation State Historic Site, 10510 FM 524
Photographs are important for studying history and for telling your family’s story. Learn how to digitally preserve your family photos with nothing but your smartphone and discover how your photographs can be used for genealogy research in this hands-on workshop.
Houston
MLK Grande Parade
Jan. 20
Midtown Houston, 1200 Holman St.
Consisting of more than 100 culturally diverse performance groups from across the nation, the MLK Grande Parade in Midtown Houston is one of the largest single-day multicultural events in the country.
Port Arthur
Martin Luther King Jr. Brunch
Jan. 20
Robert A. “Bob” Bowers Civic Center , 3401 Cultural Center Drive
The Martin Luther King Jr. Support Group of Southeast Texas hosts a day of awards, speakers, and entertainment to honor King and his civil rights works.
Houston
Gryphon Piano Trio with James Campbell
Jan. 21
Brockman Music and Performing Arts Center, Rice University, 6100 Main St.
The Gryphon Piano Trio opens the year with Beethoven’s “Archduke” and the Chamber Music Houston premiere of Messiaen’s “Quartet for the End of Time” with Canadian clarinetist James Campbell.
South Padre Island
Market Days
Jan. 24-26
South Padre Island Convention Center, 7355 Padre Blvd.
SPI Market Days has been bringing buyers and sellers together for over 25 years. Shop for jewelry, fragrances, clothing, collectibles, arts and crafts, treats, and home décor.
Lake Jackson
Lisa Loeb in Concert
Jan. 24
The Clarion at Brazosport College, 500 College Drive
The Grammy Award-winning American singer-songwriter, SiriusXM radio host, actor, entrepreneur, and philanthropist broke through with the hit song “Stay (I Missed You)” from the film “Reality Bites.” She has enjoyed a successful career in music, film, television, voice-over work and children’s recordings.
Houston
“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.
Galveston
The Flying Karamazov Brothers
Jan. 25
The Grand 1894 Opera House, 2020 Postoffice St.
Look forward to the unexpected when these four self-proclaimed “eccentric lunatics” spice things up with laugh-out-loud comedy, wild theatrics, arcane errata, and astonishing juggling feats.
Rockport
Smithsonian Museum on Main Street: “Crossroads”
Jan. 25-March 9
Aransas County Community Center, Rockport Cultural Arts District
“Crossroads” is part of Museum on Main Street, a collaboration between the Smithsonian Institution and state humanities councils nationwide that seeks to create opportunities for underserved rural communities across the country to reflect on their history, culture, and people by showcasing their cultural heritage assets. Other cities taking part in Texas are Bandera, Brenham, Buffalo Gap, Clifton, San Augustine, and San Elizario.
South Padre Island
Pickleball on Padre
Jan. 27-Feb. 3
South Padre Island Convention Center, 7355 Padre Blvd.
A brand new event, Pickleball on Padre offers group lessons and open play for players looking for a court to show off their skills. All lessons are provided by John Raschillia, a certified instructor by the Pickleball Coaching International, Dynamite Doubles, and IPTPA organizations.
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.
Galveston
The Gatlin Brothers in Concert
Feb. 1
The Grand 1894 Opera House, 2020 Postoffice St.
From the Grand Ole Opry to Carnegie Hall, Larry, Steve, and Rudy-The Gatlin Brothers-are Grammy Award winners who have wowed audiences for more than 67 years in venues and stages all over the world. Top hits include “Broken Lady” and “All The Gold in California.”
Lake Jackson
Abner Jackson Plantation Site Tour
Feb. 1
Abner Jackson Plantation Site, Farm-to-Market Road 2004 near State Highway 332
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.
Brazoria
Public Guided Tour for Black History Month
Feb. 1
Levi Jordan Plantation State Historic Site, 10510 FM 524
State historic site’s staff members teach about the enslaved people and sharecroppers who lived here during the plantation and post-emancipation eras and the archaeology history associated with them.
Rockport
Clay Expo and Bountiful Bowl Pottery Fair
Feb. 1
First Presbyterian Church, 301 SH 35 North
This annual event consists of a pottery fair with over 20 potters and clay demonstrations. There’s also gallery art walks, solo exhibits, a reception, and potters from around Texas displaying their works, which are for sale to the public.
Galveston
Lyle Lovett and His Acoustic Group in Concert
Feb. 4
The Grand 1894 Opera House, 2020 Postoffice St.
A singer, composer, and actor, Lyle Lovett has broadened the definition of “American music” in a career that spans 14 albums. Coupled with his gift for storytelling, the Texas-based musician fuses elements of country, swing, jazz, folk, gospel, and blues.
Clute
Planetarium Show
Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25
Center for the Arts and Sciences, 400 College Blvd.
This show 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.
Spring
Asleep At The Wheel in Concert
Feb. 8
The Centrum, 6823 Cypresswood Drive
Although the band got its start on a farm in Paw Paw, West Virginia, Asleep at the Wheel became a cornerstone of the Austin, Texas scene upon its arrival in 1973. Inspired by Western swing and honky-tonk country, the band has accrued 10 Grammy Awards.
Galveston
“High Heels and Cowboy Boots. A Life in the Theatre Starring Jaston Williams”
Feb. 8
The Grand 1894 Opera House, 2020 Postoffice St.
Look forward to hearing tales of Jaston Williams’ theatrical life-from the 90-year-old Radio City Rockette’s last words, to Aunt Pearl and Vera Carp stumbling onto a drug bust, and the Vietnamese waiter who was terrified of champagne, and “doing everything his mama told him not to.”
West Columbia
Voices of Varner-Hogg: Oral History Journey
Feb. 8
Varner-Hogg Plantation State Historical Site, 1702 N. 13th St.
On a guided tour, hear oral histories from those who lived at the Varner-Hogg Plantation throughout its history. Discover why oral histories are crucial to understanding this site’s story and learn how to conduct your own oral histories using tools you already have.
Lake Jackson
Brazosport Symphony Orchestra in Concert
Feb. 8
The Clarion at Brazosport College, 500 College Drive
For this show, “Traditions, Old and New,” the symphony orchestra performs with the Brazosport College Choirs. The program includes songs from classical composers such as Mozart and Fauré and the marching band composers Sousa and Lowden.
Houston
Escher Quartet with Jordan Bak
Feb. 11
Brockman Music and Performing Arts Center, Rice University, 6100 Main St.
The Escher Quartet returns to play Mozart, Brahms, and a co-commissioned piece by Chris Rogerson, featuring award-winning Jamaican-American violist Jordan Bak.
Port Aransas
Chocolate Crawl and Shop Around
Feb. 13
Various locations
Spend an evening shopping for last-minute Valentine’s Day gifts at local boutiques while enjoying chocolate treats at all participating places. The Shop Around continues through the weekend with fun deals and specials throughout town.
Rockport
LaMardi Gras
Feb. 14-15
Lamar Volunteer Fire Department, 302 Bois D’Arc Lamar Peninsula
At this annual festival, visitors can enjoy food, live entertainment, a parade, and other festivities on the Lamar Peninsula. The event benefits the Lamar Volunteer Fire Department.
Corpus Christi
CC Songwriters Festival
Feb. 14
House of Rock, 511 Starr St.
This event features over 25 songwriters and performers from all across the region as well as several workshops and panel discussions on the craft and business of being a songwriter and musician in the modern age.
Pasadena
Greater Houston Train Show
Feb. 15
Pasadena Convention Center, 7902 Fairmont Parkway
The Greater Houston Train Show attracts rail fans from across Texas and Louisiana. See operating layouts, take classes on railroads and modeling subjects, participate in National Model Railroad Association contests, and shop from an array of vendors from across the Southwest.
Lake Jackson
Bird Banding
Feb. 15
Gulf Coast Bird Observatory, 299 SH 332 West
Watch volunteers collect baseline data on bird populations at the sanctuary. The monthly banding station events are an excellent opportunity to see birds up close and to learn all the birds of the Brazosport area.
Port Aransas
Whooping Crane Festival
Feb. 20-23
Various locations
Each year since 1996, the Whooping Crane Festival has celebrated the annual return of the cranes to their wintering habitat at the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge. The Texas Coastal Bend is the only place where you can see the world’s last naturally occurring population of Whooping Cranes. The event has renowned speakers, birding trips, boating trips, nature tours, photography workshops, and a trade show.
Galveston
Mardi Gras! Galveston
Feb. 21-23, 28; March 1-2, 4
Historic Strand District, 2302 Strand St.
Texas’ largest Mardi Gras celebrates its 114th iteration with more than 20 parades and concerts and over 3 million beads. Witness the Guinness World Record-breaking Funky Uptown Umbrella Brigade, run in the Jolly Jester Jaunt 5K, and dance to live performances.
Lake Jackson
Phil Vassar in Concert
Feb. 21
The Clarion at Brazosport College, 500 College Drive
Phil Vassar is an artist, songwriter, entertainer and two-time ASCAP Songwriter of the Year, with 10 No. 1 singles and 27 Top 40 hits.
Kingsville
Main Street Wine Walk
Feb. 22
Downtown, 104 E. Kleberg Ave.
Enjoy downtown Kingsville in a whole new way by sipping and shopping the whole way through. Main Street small businesses are open through the evening and visiting vendors line the street.
Surfside Beach
Surfside Beach Marathon
Feb. 22
Stahlman Park, 2211 Bluewater Highway
The race offers something for every level of runner, with a marathon, half marathon, 5K, and a kids K. Races start as the sun rises over the water and follow the public beach to San Luis Pass, then return. The entire course is on firm, smooth sand. A post-run party includes Texas barbecue, drinks, and games.
West Columbia
Public Guided Tour for Black History Month
Feb. 22
Varner-Hogg Plantation State Historical Site, 1702 N. 13th St.
Learn about the people who lived at the plantation at different times throughout the site’s history. The tour includes information about the enslaved people’s skills and the accomplishments of cowboys like Hal Fields.
Port Arthur
Rotary Taste of Gumbo & More
Feb. 22
Central Mall , 3100 FM 365
Taste the best gumbos created by local restaurants and groups and cooked up in the Cajun Capital of Texas. This event also features live entertainment from the Rollin Bones Band and a silent auction to raise funds for charity.
Beaumont
Mardi Gras Southeast Texas
Feb. 27-March 2
The Event Centre Downtown, 700 Crockett St.
Experience the ultimate celebration of community and culture at Mardi Gras Southeast Texas. There’s fun for all, including parades, concerts, arts and crafts, food vendors, a carnival, and street entertainment.
Brownsville
Charro Days Celebration
Feb. 27-March 1
Various locations
First conceived in 1937 by local business leaders, the event commemorates the Mexican heritage of the area on both sides of the Rio Grande and is named in honor of the dashing Mexican gentleman cowboy. Festivities include parades, a carnival, a costume ball, and the the Sombrero Festival.
Clute
“9 to 5: The Musical”
Feb. 28; March 1-2, 8-10
Center for the Arts & Sciences, 400 College Blvd.
With music and lyrics by Dolly Parton and a book by Patricia Resnick, the musical is based on the seminal 1980 hit movie. Set in the late 1970s, this hilarious story of friendship and revenge in the Rolodex era is outrageous, thought-provoking, and even a little romantic.
Corpus Christi
Barefoot Mardi Gras
March 1
Whitecap Beach, Whitecap Boulevard
Embrace the spirit of the Gulf Coast at the Barefoot Mardi Gras, a vibrant and laid-back twist on the traditional Mardi Gras celebration. Set along the beautiful beaches of Corpus Christi, this annual event brings the parade energy of Mardi Gras to the shore, where attendees trade beads for bare feet and enjoy a one-of-a-kind beachfront parade.
Houston
Notos Piano Quartett Concert
March 4
Brockman Music and Performing Arts Center, Rice University, 6100 Main St.
Making its Chamber Music Houston debut, the Berlin-based Notos Piano Quartett offers works by Mahler, Mozart, and Schumann, and an exciting short work composed for the ensemble by Grammy winner Bryce Dessner.
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.
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.
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.
