Gift Guide Holiday 2019

For the pet lover

Pink Papyrus

Treat yo’ pup with Pink Papyrus! They started with tees and have expanded to sturdy, fashion forward gear. Long walks on all terrains just got upgraded with hand spun, cotton, weather proof, hypoallergenic, naturally elastic, sustainable leashes. Protect your pup from bugs and sun with a classic, tie-on bandana. Created to minimize stiffness, these beauts allow for flexibility in size. When nature calls, be prepared with a durable waste bag holder crafted from heavy-duty fabric and solid brass hardware. A little extra wiggle room offers space for a few personal items.

www.PinkPapyrus.com Price: $20.00+

For the Fashionista

Kissing Glitter

Take your lips to a new level with this yummy Kissing Glitter! Simply roll on this shimmery gloss for a sweet pout that looks and tastes amazing!

For the Ultimate Texan

Art of Twisted Nail

Popular at farmers markets and festivals around the state, and the “Outstanding New Vendor” at the State Fair of Texas, Art of the Twisted Nail is offering unique art with a Texas flair. Pieces are ideal for outdoor spaces and can be customized for ranches and party barns. Most popular pieces include the Bluebonnet Texas, Rivers of Texas, and the nativity scene.

http://www.artoftwistednail.com

For the Hostess with the Mostess

LOUIS XIII Black Pearl AHD

When money is no object,splurge on LOUIS XIII Cognac and the limited-edition world famous LOUIS XIII Black Pearlin a new size: LOUIS XIII Black Pearl AHD. Part of the exclusive Black Pearl Collection, the unprecedented 350 ml crystal decanter contains a rare blend of LOUIS XIII Cognac, drawn from a single tiercon hidden in the family reserve cellar. In a numbered and exclusive amount of only 1498, the bespoke Baccarat decanter comes in Black Pearl’s iconic limited-edition steel color and is an exquisite work of art. This is the first time a decanter part of the Black Pearl Collection has been available since 2014.

$13,000 USD. https://www.louisxiii-cognac.com/

For the new baby

Clappy the Animated Monkey (Baby GUND)

It’s never too early (an age) to hop on the GUND craze. Clappy is an enthusiastic, animated plush monkey who is always ready to keep your baby engaged and entertained. This washable, huggable toy helps baby develop and learn through two different play modes. Touch his left foot to play an interactive clapping game, and the right to hear the song “If You’re Happy and You Know It” in a cute child’s voice. When playtime is over, this adorable 12” monkey doubles as perfect room décor to enhance your room or nursery.

$40.00 Gund.com

For the Homemaker

Drinkmate Countertop and Spritzer

Now you can carbonate anything in the fridge with this patented detachable Fizz Infuser. This small device doesn’t use much counter space, is easy to operate and easy to clean. 

$89.99 www.idrinkproducts.com 

For the Naturalist

Parry Botanicals

This local cosmetic company features all natural ingredients. More than a stocking stuffer, this 3-piece gift set is perfect for any of your gifting needs. It includes full size 3-piece set of Parry Botanical’s best-selling lotions –Restorative Cream, Body Cream and Pure Botanical Lotion all in a stylish bag. 

$100  parrybotanicals.com

For the Entertainer

Shaker33

Everyone is shaking with excitement over the latest innovation in Cocktail Shakers – Shaker33. The large format enables large batches to be mixed at one time. It’s BPA-Free, features stainless steel design and is shatterproof.  Shaker33 is revolutionizing the art of mixing drinks. You can even mix one handed!

$39.95 www.shaker33.com  

For the Art Lover (who love their pets)

Crown and Paw

Is your pet your baby? This holiday season turn a favorite picture of your pet into a one of a kind renaissance masterpiece with Crown and Paw pet portraits. What a unique way to express your love, adoration, and even obsessiveness, with beloved pets. Crown and Paw curates authentic 19th century portraits and rare Renaissance era oil paintings and digitally combines them with your pet photo, creating an incredibly life like work of art.

from $49.99 www.crownandpaw.com

For the Home Brewer

The Noelle™ Ceramic Electric Tea Kettle

Fashion meets function with this stylish tea kettle by Pinky Up®! The Noelle™ Ceramic Electric Tea Kettle features glossy mint ceramic glazing and a trendy rose gold metallic base. Includes 1.5L capacity with easy on/off switch. Boiling water has never been this chic! 

$59.99 available at most online retailers

For the Fitness Junkie

Downward Dog

 Built for your mother or brother, sister or mister, Corc Yoga’s line of 100% sustainable and renewable yoga mats and accessories are the perfect holiday gifts. Sustainable, 100% chemical free, and anti-microbial, Corc Yoga makes products entirelywithcork harvested in Portugal, simultaneously revitalizing the practice and supporting a sustainably viable future. Built by removing harsh metals from production and using plant-based color dyes, Corc mats are completely natural and biodegradable.

from $21.99 to $205 www.corcyoga.com

For the Wanderlust Family

Elsewhere USA Scratch Off Map Poster

Whether your children are active wanderlusts or travelers in training, let them scratch, write on and explore in ways most maps won’t let them. The Elsewhere USA Scratch Off Map Poster provides an interactive way kids can learn about the places they’ve gone, locations they can visit and other facts, figures, and notes that makes them.

Amazon.com

For the Home Décor Junkie

Coffee table book by local author

Author and photographer, Margaret Wilson Reckling released her new book of images, prose and historical research, Woody Creek: Views from a Homestead. Reckling brilliantly captures Woody Creek Canyon’s intimate allure and panoramic vistas through her photographic study and written words. The author has spent much of the past five years restoring and maintaining the original Colorado homestead ranch which was built in the 1800’s by the area’s early settlers. Her oversight of this historic property was the inspiration for the book and resulted in thousands of images of local wildlife, the changing seasons, night sky astronomy and more.

Available for purchase by emailing woodycreekhomestead@gmail.com.

For the Foodie

Home cutlery at its finest- F.N. Sharp

Differentiated by striking designs, superior Damascus steel and a hassle-free sharpening subscription model, F.N. Sharp brings a whole new edge to the home cutlery industry. The exceptionally sharp blades crafted from 67 layers of high-quality Japanese VG-10 steel;are available in 3-knife (Chef, Santoku, Paring) or 6-knife (Chef, Santoku, Paring, Boning, Bread and Utility) sets and steak knives in sets of four.

https://fnsharp.com/knife-collections/6-knife-set/

Much Ado About Houston

Summer in Houston isn’t complete without a little theater. And what could be better than the “merry war” between Benedict and Beatrice in Much Ado About Nothing, or the tragic underdog tale in Henry V, to take the edge off those steamy August nights?

Beginning on July 29, the Houston Shakespeare Festival will alternate performances of Much Ado About Nothing and Henry V over the course of two weeks, once again captivating Bayou City theatergoers at Hermann Park’s Miller Outdoor Theatre. Since 1975, audiences from all over the city have enjoyed the event, watching Shakespeare under the stars for free every summer. Funding from the University of Houston, as well as several other foundations and individuals, has allowed the HSF to continue and grow, even providing an opportunity for emerging actors, designers, directors and stage managers from the HSF Conservatory to practice their craft in a professional environment.

Don’t miss the show!

Much Ado About Nothing: July 29, 31; August 2, 4, 6

Henry V: July 30; August 3, 5, 7

For ticket and pricing information:
www.milleroutdoortheatre.com

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Typhoon Texas: A Texas-Sized Water Park

Everything is bigger in Texas—and in this case, that’s no exaggeration. This past Memorial Day weekend, Typhoon Texas, the largest privately owned water park in the country, opened its doors to the public. Sprawling over 25 acres in Katy, 29 miles from downtown Houston, the wonderland boasts 30 waterslides, nine amusement park rides and even a barbecue restaurant.

The most unique aspect about the water park, however, isn’t just the sheer size of it, but the innovation behind the rides themselves. “Slide boarding,” for instance, lets riders shoot at targets as they shoot down a water slide, making for a virtual video game experience; riders can even track their scores on their cell phones. That feature alone should get kids away from their Xbox and out into the sunshine!

Other attractions include the Texas Twister, which boomerangs a raft of up to six people down and up a curved wall; the Gunslinger, a seven-story freefall in a capsule; and the Typhoon, a water slide and white-water-rafting experience combined. For visitors with children too small for the heart-stopping attractions, there’s still plenty to see and do—the Gully Washer is a play area complete with sprays, slides and rope bridges.

When it’s time for a break, there are plenty of food options, from pizza to cooked-from-scratch barbecue. Rentable cabanas provide shade and a place to relax before hitting up another adrenaline-spiking ride.

For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit www.typhoontexas.com.

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Valentine’s Day

If you’re looking to make plans this Valentine’s Day we have a few suggestions for you to start with!

Eventbrite has pages and pages of events that you can get tickets to (some are free!) for Valentine’s Day in Houston.  There are things for singles and couples!
Website: https://www.eventbrite.com/d/tx–houston/valentines-day-ideas/

The Official Visitors Site for Houston has some great ideas too!
www.visithoustontexas.com

For Couple:
For the Adventurous type:

Glide!
The extreme sport of soaring uses sailplanes for motor-less flight so people can experience the feeling glide through the air. Located just east of Wallis, Texas, the Greater Houston Soaring Association offers gliding every weekend, weather permitting.  Today’s sailplanes can fly for hours and cover great distances.
Go Fish!
The experts at Galveston Fishing Guides have been casting lines in the waters of Galveston Bay and the Gulf of Mexico for years. They know the hotspots for everything from redfish and trout to giant tarpon and sharks. Available for half day, full day and evening trips. While you’re down in Galveston check out Gaidos, a landmark for fantastic seafood, or Gumbo’s for Louisiana-style poboys.

Wave Action
Want to test your wakeboarding skills? You don’t have to hit the open water for a thrilling experience, just head south of Houston to Wake Nation. Set on a man-made lake, this attraction boasts 35-foot steel towers carrying a unique overhead cable system that allows riders to wakeboard, water skate, water ski, and kneeboard without a boat. Novices can start out on a practice pond while the pros take to the lake outfitted with custom-built jumps, grind rails, and sliders.

Fast Fall
Located on a 134-acre airpark 25 minutes south of the 610 Loop,Skydive Spaceland offers classes, tandem and individual skydiving experiences with some of the best instructors in the industry. Do a first-time jump with a tandem instructor or spend a week in training and get your skydiving license. Skydive Spaceland is open seven days a week and can handle as many as 300 first-time jumpers each day. The facility also welcomes large groups.

Ready, Aim, Fire
Whether you’re an expert marksman or a novice, shooting sporting clays is a great time. A game designed to simulate wing shooting of various game birds, sporting clays is set up a lot like golf, with various stations around a course where clay targets are thrown in pairs. This is just one of the activities available at American Shooting Centers in West Houston’s George Bush Park, which also offers skeet shooting and rifle and pistol bulls-eye shooting.

Paint Wars
Ever want to see who would fare better in a combat situation, you or your buddies? Well whether you’re a paintball pro or a complete novice, you’ll get a full-throttle experience at Urban Warzone–and figure out who can really hack it in war. As you navigate the field and the various bunkers, you’ll get that adrenaline rush you crave.

Rock the Cradle
If you dream of riding bowls, grinding rails, or cutting and sweeping through the largest cradle in the world, don’t miss the Lee and Joe Jamail Skatepark. Designed by the premiere skatepark firm Gridline, this state-of-the-art, public 30,000 square-foot in-ground skate park is the first world-class, in-ground skatepark in the Houston region. If bigger is better, head north to Spring and conquer the United States largest free skate park,Greenspoint Spring Skatepark. At 72,000 square-feet, the park includes a competition-scale Texas bowl featuring a full pipe, a 12-foot vertical ramp, a 10-foot bowl, banked walls and speed hips. In addition, there is a section designed to emulate the street-skating experience and will have ledges, rails, benches, banks, quarter pipes and stair obstacles.

Climb High
With 42 top rope stations and a dedicated bouldering area, Texas Rock Gym draws climbing enthusiasts from across the region to its West Houston facility. Texas Rock Gym offers a wide assortment of classes and clinics for climbers as well as team building activities and organized programs for schools, companies and other groups. Visitors can access Texas Rock Gym on a day pass or an ongoing membership. A series of packages and add-on extras such as shoe rental are also available.

Play with the Ponies
For a little open air fun on horseback, head north to Humble’s Cypress Trails stables. This established equestrian center is open seven days a week for endurance and pleasure riding and offers rides by the hour or for longer periods and also provides lessons in general horsemanship and competitive riding.

For the Romantic in you:

Picnic in the Park: (Feb. 13) – Take a stroll in Hermann Park and enjoy live music, a catered three-course picnic and even a pedal boat ride. Tickets are limited and reservations are needed.

Dining by Candlelight: Love means never having to say “I’m hungry.” At least that’s the takeaway from the many Houston restaurants offering mouth-watering menus for Valentine’s Day this year. Whether it’s seafood you’re craving or steak, Italian or Mexican, there’s something for every couple’s taste on the table

For the Big Spender:

Fly high-helicopter ride: See the city like you’ve never seen it before with Helicopter Services Inc.

Wine before dine: Skip the trip to Napa and head for the hills-Texas Bluebonnet Wine Trail offers oenophiles spectacular views and award-winning wines not far from the heart of Houston. Located between I-45 and U.S. Highway 290, visitors will find seven wineries spread out over the state’s beautiful landscape.

Award winning restaurants: The best of the best- But don’t take our word for it. Houston’s restaurants are consistently being recognized by Bon Appetit and beyond. Read on for some of the city’s most-loved spots.

Haute hotels in the city: Houston’s spoiled when it comes to stylish hotels–from modern properties with a hopping social scene to the innovative and eco-friendly. Read on for the scoop on those with a fresh new look and even more that we have to look forward to.

 

The Beloved on a Budget:

Things to do: Spend your day exploring Houston’s hotspots, while saving big with a well-edited list of the city’s most-loved free things to do. Fortunately, for locals and visitors alike, several of Houston’s most memorable attractions won’t break the bank, in fact they won’t even cost a dime.

Cheap Eats: Meals that won’t break the bank. No matter what you’re craving, there are plenty of affordable options to choose from in Houston. Check out these wallet-friendly stand outs in a neighborhood near you.

For the Singles:

Take a cooking class: Dinner for one? Make it a delicious one. Be a star in the kitchen and learn the secrets to preparing fabulous dishes from some of Houston’s culinary masters.

Athena Golf Club & American Shooting Centers: Grab your single friends and set your sights on something other than Valentine’s Day. While Cupid’s busy taking aim at hearts, you and your friends can take aim at a bullseye.

Spa Day: Rest, relax and rejuvenate this Valentine’s Day at one of the city’s many top-notch salons and spas. From blow-dry bars and hotel retreats to nail spas and make-up salons, Houston is chock-full of beautifying escapes and stress-relieving sanctuaries. Want to know where to go to unwind? The possibilities are endless so sit back, relax and just say spaaaah…

Your missing link: Mixers & Elixers (Feb. 13) – Mingle with other smart hearts while enjoying music and drinks at the Houston Museum of Natural Science. Who knows, you might just find your missing link.

For the Family:

Kid Friendly restaurants: With more than 8,000 restaurants to choose from in the Houston area, it can be daunting trying to find a spot that’s kid tested and parent approved. While plenty of well-known, national chains dot the city’s landscape-Chili’s, Rainforest Café and iHop, among others-there are just as many uniquely-Houston options that are certain to please. Check out the local spots that score big in H-Town.

Kids incorporated: There are endless attractions that appeal to adults and children alike. From boat tours on Buffalo Bayou to one of the top children’s museums in the U.S., Houston offers endless attractions that appeal to adults and children alike. Plan a visit and treat your family to one of the city’s fun-filled, action-packed adventures that are as entertaining as they are educational.

Anti-Valentiners:

Chocolate? Flowers? Romance?!? Yuck. If you’re not a fan of the traditional trappings of datings, try one of these ideas. The city is jam-packed with unique, must-see sites and experiences to enjoy. Think you’ve got Houston figured out? Think again. Spend your Valentine’s Day off the beaten path.

Love Sux Party: The theme speaks for itself. Head to Howl at the Moon with a picture of your ex-boyfriend (in pieces) and admission is free.  Singletons and couples alike are welcome to join in for great Anti-Valentines drink specials and Love Sux games with $500 in cash and prizes for the taking!

Food trucks: No reservations necessary at these laid back food joints. From cupcakes to chicken and waffles, crepes to pocket pies, just about anything your taste buds desire is being served on wheels, and without the uncomfortable trappings of relationship defining Valentine’s Day dinners.

Bowling: Group dates take the pressure off the “love stuff”. So gather a league of friends for an upscale approach to bowling with large, flat-screen TVs, a VIP cocktail lounge, premium stereo system and a well-heeled catering menu.

Halloween in Houston

8th Annual Montrose Crawl

Where: Montrose
When: October 31st
Times: 7pm – 2am

First get your costume on, then get your drink on as the Crawl hits 12 restaurants and bars between Dunlavy & Montrose on Westheimer, including Brasil,Poison Girl, Pistolero’s, Boondocks, Stone’s Throw, Etro Lounge, Catbirds, Royal Oak, Doc’s Motorworks, Slick Willie’s, El Real Tex-Mex, and Hay Merchant, with special appearances by Koagie Hots and The Golden Grill.

As always, there’ll be no covers & no tickets, plus drink specials all night long.  And prizes will be awarded for the best outfits at each stop, with a grand costume prize awarded by this year’s honorary Grand Crawler Chris Shepherd.  Check out the rules and last year’s grand prize recipients, the Legion of Doom, to see what it takes to win.

A portion of drink sales during the Crawl will be donated to the Houston Area Women’s Center, one of Montrose’s most important aid organizations.

The 8th Annual Montrose Crawl is brought to you by Free Press Houston, Houston’s leading independent newspaper, Santo, our official beer, Jim Beam, our official whiskey, Izkali, our official tequila, Party Boy, the ultimate Halloween costume store, and Nightmare on the Bayou, Houston’s most haunted house, with special flavors & favors provided by Red Bull and Uber.

Boo on the Boardwalk

Where: 701 4th Street Kemah TX 77565
When: Entire month of October
Webstite: www.kemahboardwalk.com

For the entire month of October, Kemah is hosting Boo on the Boardwalk where families can enjoy an array of Halloween themed activities. For the braver souls, face the dungeon of doom while the kids enjoy the Little Boo Haunted Fun house. Other attractions include pumpkin decorating, live entertainment and costume contests.

Food Truck Friday Nights Haunted House

Location: Xavier Educational Academy
Address: 6203 Edloe, Houston, TX 77005
Phone: 713-503-6463
Times: October 25th from 7-10 pm
Admission: NoAdult
Admission: $20Additional
Admission: $8 discount if you bring a donation for the Houston Food Bank. Use discount code” foodbank”
Tickets Here

Want to be terrified? Fearless teens and brave adults alike can experience our professionally staged haunted house on Saturday, October 25th from 7-10 pm. For those less brave, never fear! You can enjoy our food truck rally along with free musical entertainment. The rally is free to enter. Thanks to Phobia Haunted Houses, you do not have to travel to the burbs to be petrified.

Galveston Ghost Tours

Location: Ghost Tours Texas.com
Address: 911 24th St., Galveston, TX 77550
Phone: 832-224-8687Free
Website: www.ghosttourstexas.com

Step through the shadows, gather your courage and discover the chilling and ghastly tales of murder, revenge, passion, heartache and breath-taking history! This exciting Ghost Tour in Galveston takes you on a fascinating walking tour through the historic and haunted Silk Stocking district starting by the famous Broadway mansion, Ashton Villa! It is a family-friendly tour, loved by all ages!

For decades, brave travelers, paranormal enthusiasts, and those who enjoy a chill up their spine have flocked to Galveston’s historic districts to explore its rich, tantalizing and bizarre history, but this walking tour of the Silk Stocking District is a first!! Highlights include:

Step through the darkness and investigate the chilling location where a man was kept hostage for an entire night by a female ghost.

Take a chance to see the lovely red-headed, ”Miss Betty” Brown who still “lives” at the vintage 1858 Ashton Villa mansion. . she’s been photographed staring out of the second floor window through the curtains — Bring your camera!

Discover why Capt. Mott’s apparition is regularly seen in the attic…could he be hiding the horrific murders committed by his son?

Explore the vivid details of the 1900 Great Storm’s night of terror, when a brave mother selflessly dragged bodies from the savage waters over her second floor balcony..

Visit Galveston’s last bordello…why does that prominent insurance man’s spirit still lurk in the bedrooms at night?
This fascinating walking tour was designed by fifth-generation Galvestonian, Jan Johnson based on eye-witness accounts of paranormal occurrences. A talented writer and award winning tour guide, Jan published the book, “Walking Historic Galveston: A Guide to its Neighborhoods” and is currently working on her second masterpiece!

Times:  approximately at 7:30 p.m. (times are seasonal)

15th Annual Ghost Walk!

Where: 8181 Fannin St. Suite 2218, Houston, TX 77002
When: Through November 1st
Phone: 713-222-9255
Admission: $15
Website: www.brownpapertickets.com

90-minute guided walking tour through Houston’s Downtown Historic District featuring urban legends and true tales of deceased Houstonians.

Includes a stop inside the Spaghetti Warehouse.
NOT a paranormal tour.
This year’s stories include:
* Ghosts of the Spaghetti Warehouse (told outside)
* Sunken Confederate Ship
* The Barmaid’s Best Friend
* The Donnellan Crypt
* The Ghosts Behind Floyd’s Hotel

Even though this is NOT a paranormal tour, everyone will receive a copy of Sandra Lord’s Short Guide to the Paranormal and a handout with more details about the stories your ghostly guides will tell.

Please feel free to bring cameras, video equipment, and EMF meters. You may want to use a high-powered flashlight at the Donnellen Crypt. Mosquito spray is recommended, as are comfortable clothes and walking shoes.

DRESSING FOR THE HALLOWEEN SEASON IS ENCOURAGED. WE LOVE TO TAKE PICTURES!

Please arrive at least 15 minutes early and wait in the bar area for an announcement for the registration location. If you want to have dinner at the Spaghetti Warehouse, please arrive at least 90 minutes to two hours early. Attendees receive a 10% discount off their dinner at the Spaghetti Warehouse. Be sure to tell your waiter before you order.

Parking: Paid parking is available in adjacent lots. Free on-street parking available after 6 p.m.

Restrooms are available at the Spaghetti Warehouse and the Brewery Tap. There are no other rest stops.

Phobia

Address: 18777 Hwy 290, Houston, TX 77065
Phone: 713-526-3323
Times:  8 pm
Website:  www.darke.com

Open every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday night in October – Experiences include the Mind Control haunt, Simon Fowler Woods, ClaustroPhobia, Darke Institute and Dawn of the Machine. This house is sure to scare Anyone!!!

Scream World

Location: 2225 North Sam Houston Pkwy West Houston, TX 77038
Hours: Sun – Thurs 7:30pm – 10pm / Fri – Sat 8pm – 12am / Halloween 7pm – 1am
TICKETS

Voted #1 Haunted House in Houston, Scream World features The Swamp, Jake’s Slaughterhouse, Edge of Darkness, Clown Asylum Maze, and the Zombie Graveyard! If this doesn’t scare you nothing will!

Nightmare on the Bayou

Address: 1515 Studemont, Houston, TX 77007
Phone: 713-868-3344
Times: Starting: 7:30 p.m. Friday-Sun. in October
Website: www.nightmareonthebayou.com
Schedule: www.nightmareonthebayou.com/schedule.htm

 

Located directly beside Houston’s oldest graveyard, Nightmare on the Bayou is the only attraction that is actually haunted by real ghosts! Monsters and mayhem are guaranteed!

Monsters’ Museum of Houston

When: October 9 – November 2
Venue: Children’s Museum of Houston
Address: 1500 Binz, Houston, TX 77004
Phone: 713-522-1138
Times: Starting: 4 pm daily

Monstrous mayhem will be unleashed when the Children’s Museum of Houston is transmogrified into the Monsters’ Museum of Houston for three weeks of Halloween.  From Oct. 9 to Nov. 2, 2014, we dare you to witness how monsters have rummaged, scoured, combed and turned the Museum upside down to make room for their monster lairs.  This hair-raising experience will allow you to “catch monsters” in the act, interact with their pals, observe and comprehend their behavior, participate in monster hobbies and discover why monsters may be just simply misunderstood!

Scream on the Green

Location: Discovery Green
Venue: Discovery Green
Address: 1500 McKinney Street, Houston, TX 77010
Phone: 713-400-7336
Times: 6 – 10 pm

Enjoy live music, face painting, fortune tellers and dancing, and of course this year’s feature film, Frankenweenie.

Spirits and Skeletons

Location: Houston Museum of Natural Science
Venue: Houston Museum of Natural Science
Address: 5555 Hermann Park Drive, Houston, TX 77030
Phone: 713-639-4629
Times: 8 p.m. to Midnight

Calling all ghosts and ghouls, monsters and mummies, witches and werewolves: Houston’s favorite Halloween party — the one and only Spirits & Skeletons — is back at HMNS! With the entire museum open you can shake your stuff with a stegosaurus, grab a drink with a skink and get spellbound by bewitching gems, all to live music and your favorite hits played by DJs with fantastic food trucks parked right outside. Whether you go with scary and spooky or fab and kooky — dress up, party the night away at HMNS and we’ll put a spell on you!

Zoo Boo

When: Fridays – Oct 10, 17 & 24 / Saturdays -October 11 & 12, 18 & 19, 25 & 26
Location: 6200 Hermann Park Drive Houston, TX 77030
Venue: Houston Zoo
Times: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Website

We’re inviting all little ghouls and goblins to celebrate Halloween at the Houston Zoo with activities that are fun for the whole family. We encourage all kids to come dressed in their spookiest or prettiest Halloween costume! They’ll love to show off their costume in our Costume Parade as well as our NEW Costume Contest and dance to the “thrilling” music with our children’s DJ.

Zoo Boo will also once again feature the Fiesta Mart Pumpkin Patch. Kids can pick out their very own child-sized pumpkin (while supplies last) and paint it into a Halloween jack-o-lantern! Overflowing with pumpkins, this is also the perfect spot for photographs.

And what’s Halloween without candy? We’ll have “Candy Corner” booths sponsored by Fiesta Mart throughout the Zoo, so bring your trick or treat bag and your sweet tooth! (Candy available while supplies last).

All this PLUS Halloween-themed Meet the Keeper Talks, the Candy Cave, Tatzoo Parlor, and more! Back by popular demand don’t forget to stop by Duck Lake and follow Zoe the Zookeeper on her Howlerween Adventure or test your bravery by reaching in our Mystery Boxes in the John P. McGovern Children’s Zoo!

MECA’s Dia de los Muertos Festival

MECA proudly presents Dia De Los Muertos: Honoring our Past, Celebrating Our Future. Dia de los Muertos is a traditional Latin American holiday that honors and celebrates the lives of family and friends who have gone before us. Different countries celebrate Dia de los Muertos in their own unique way. The common theme that runs through the two-day celebration, traditionally held November 1 and 2, is the belief that the dead return home, visit loved ones, and feast on their favorite foods. A playful mockery of death and a reaffirmation of life are demonstrated through music, dance, theatre, and visual arts. MECA’s event features Dia de los Muertos celebrations from throughout Latin America, with an altar exhibit competition, foods from the Americas, vendors selling authentic Latin American Dia de los Muertos arts and crafts, and a Calavera Fashion Show. This festival is truly a community cultural event celebrating our ancestors and Latin American traditions. MECA Dia de los Muertos: Honoring Our Past, Celebrating Our Future is held at MECA’s colorful, art-filled campus located at the nationally recognized historic Dow School in Houston’s Old Sixth Ward.

The event will provide a unique opportunity for those unfamiliar with this tradition to learn how countries throughout the Latin American world celebrate this day, which is commonly known in other cultures as All Souls Day.

We invite you to join us in celebrating Dia de los Muertos with us at MECA.

Labor Day Weekend 2014

Wondering what to do this Labor Day weekend? Here are a few suggestions we know you’ll love!

Houston Restaurant Weeks 2014

Choose from more than 170 Houston restaurants offering special lunches, dinners and brunches throughout all of August as part of Houston Restaurant Weeks 2014. Each restaurant will offer special two- to four-course menus for $20 to $45 per person. The exact menu and price varies by restaurant. For every meal sold, a portion of the proceeds will go to benefit the Houston Food Bank, and in turn also support the Brazos Valley Food Bank, the Galveston County Food Bank and the Montgomery County Food Bank. You must make your reservation for Houston Restaurant Weeks 2014 in advance, and specify that you are selecting that option. If you use OpenTable.com to make your reservation, include ‘Request HRW Menu’ in the comments field. 

Website: www.houstonrestaurantweeks.com
Menus: Click Here to View Full Menus

 

Godspell at Miller Outdoor Theatre

Dates: Thursday, August 28 and Friday, August 29, 2014
Time: 8pm both nights
Location: Miller Outdoor Theatre, 6000 Herman Park Dr. Houston, TX 77030
Admission: Free

One of the biggest Broadway and off-Broadway successes of all time, Godspell is an electrifying, soulful folk-rock recreation of the Gospel of St. Matthew. The catchy and unforgettable score by Stephen Schwartz includes songs such as such as “Day by Day,” “Prepare Ye the Way,” and “Light of the World,” combined with a variety of storytelling techniques, creates an undeniably powerful musical that continues to captivate audiences of all ages from around the world.

Brewmasters 5th Annual Craft Beer Festival

The Amazing Houston Comic Con

Amazing Houston Comic Con debuts August 29-30-31 at the George R Brown Convention Center, with the best and brightest in comic book and pop entertainment. Meet your favorite creators and celebrities at this 3-day event, filled with a giant exhibitors hall, an international artist alley, video game arena, hundreds of people in costume and more. There is something for everyone at the Amazing Houston Comic Con, from After Hours parties to family fun on Sunday Kid’s Day!

When: August 29-31
FRI 8/29: 3pm-8pm
SAT 8/30: 10am-7pm
SUN 8/31: 10am-6pm
Where: George R. Brown Convention Center
1001 Avenida de las Americas, Houston, TX 77010
Get Tickets Here
Exhibitor Info Here

Things to do with the Kiddos from BigKidSmallCity

• Find over 40 FREE THINGS TO DO around town.
• Find Kid Friendly RESTAURANTS in Houston.
• Browse hundreds of THINGS to DO, with KIDS, in HOUSTON!
• Visit a new HOUSTON PARK.
• Cool off at one of the cities 20 FREE SPLASHPADS!
• Narrow down the options with the TOP THINGS TO DO in HOUSTON.

Thursday, August 28, 2014:
Free Museum Entry
Children’s Museum of Houston FREE Thursday 5:00-8:00pm
The Health Museum FREE Thursday 2:00-5:00pm
The John C. Freeman Weather Museum FREE Thursday 12:00-4:00pm
Houston Museum of Natural Science FREE Thursdays 3:00-6:00pm
The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston FREE Thursdays 10:00-9:00pm
Summer Night Salsa – 6:30-7:30pm – Discovery Green
Godspell – 8:00pm – Miller Outdoor Theatre

Friday, August 29, 2014:
Godspell – 8:00pm – Miller Outdoor Theatre 

Saturday, August 30, 2014:
Young Writers Workshop – 10:30am – Discovery Green 
Fandango: A Night in Madrid – 8:00pm – Miller Outdoor Theatre

Sunday, August 31, 2014:
Family Zone – 1:00-4:00pm Museum of Fine Arts
Bollywood Blast: The Bollywood Bandwagon – 8:00pm – Miller Outdoor Theatre

Monday, September 1, 2014:
Go HERE for free things to do any day of the week!
Sketching in the Galleries – 1:00-4:00pm – Museum of Fine Arts

Tuesday, September 2, 2014:
Toddler Tuesday: Thomas the Train – 10:30am – Discovery Green
Free Entry to the Zoo – 2:00-Closing – Houston Zoo

Wednesday, September 3, 2014:
Mommy Mingle – 10:00-12:00pm – Children’s Museum of Houston
Nature Story Time – 4:00pm – Nature Discovery Center

Caribbean International Fest at Amity Park Alief

 The Caribbean Chamber of Commerce of Texas launches its first ever all-day festival with a diverse array of musical acts and foods from the Caribbean tropics and across Houston. $5; free for kids 10 and under. 10am to 9pm.

3rd Annual Pearland Wine & Food Festival

Dionisio Winery presents its 3rd Annual Wine & Food Festival from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday, August 30 at 4070 Wells Drive in Pearland. Dionisio Winery owner and Pearland resident, Jimmy Aranda, relocated the event to Pearland in 2014.  Wineries featured include Los Pinos Ranch Vineyards, Red 55 Winery, Haak Vineyards & Winery and Maydee Country Wines. In addition to a great selection of wines, visitors will find food vendors, retailers and music by Thermal Fusion. For more information or tickets, email dionisiowinery@gmail.com or call 713.906.2499.

Labor Day Sunday at Pub Fiction

Click Here for Details

Enjoy breakfast to 2pm and all day drink specials. DJ Bizonee takes to the turntables at 10pm. 10:30am to 2am.

Celtic Gardens Labor Day Sunday

Click Here for Details
Party with $10 mimosa carafes, $5 sangrias, $4 Guiinness and Saint Arnold’s drafts. Music from DJ Kyle Berg at 3pm and Tony Styles at $10. 11am to 2pm.

The Ginger Man’s Backyard Labor Day Party

Enjoy an afternoon of live music and specials on pints from Rahr and Sons. 1pm to 2am.
The Ginger Man Website

Last Weekend to Enjoy Houston’s Public Pools!

Cool down in one of Houston’s Public Pools. Check out our blog for a list of pools!

Catch an Astros Game!

Houston Astros vs Texas Rangers
Where: Minute Maid Park
501 Crawford Street
Houston, Texas, 77002
When: Friday, August 29
Time: 7:10 pm
Phone: 713-259-8000

Houston Astros vs Texas Rangers
Where: Minute Maid Park
501 Crawford Street
Houston, Texas, 77002
When: Saturday, August 30
Time: 6:10 pm
Phone: 713-259-8000

Houston Astros vs Texas Rangers
Where: Minute Maid Park
501 Crawford Street
Houston, Texas, 77002
When:  Sunday, August 31
Time: 1:10 pm
Phone: 713-259-8000

4th of July

Kemah Boardwalk

Live music & patriotic fireworks show over Galveston Bay.

Venue: Kemah Boardwalk
Phone:281-474-9700
Times: All day. Fireworks at 9:30 pm
Visit Event Website
Area of Town: Clear Lake/Bay Area Houston
Free Admission: Yes

17th Annual Red, Hot, & Blue Festival

Location: The Woodlands Town Center
Address: 31 Waterway Square Place, Woodlands, TX 77380
Times: 6pm-10pm
Visit Event Website
Free Admission: No

This all evening event celebrating the American Dream, will have two locations along the Waterway. Enjoy your Independence Day at both Town Green Park and Waterway Square, each featuring a main stage and activities for all ages.

In addition to live bands, the festivities will also include face painting, games, vendor booths and concessions. But we can’t forget American food staples for the Fourth of July, hot dogs and watermelon! There will be an eating contest for each of these, which are sponsored by HEB.

End the night at the Waterway Square, which will have the best view for the 23-minute fireworks extravaganza.

Bellaire’s July 4th Parade & Festival

Location: Bellaire Town Square
Phone:713-662-8280
Times: 9:30am-1pm
Visit Event Website
Area of Town: Southwest
Free Admission: Yes

July 4th Celebration at Bayou Bend

Location: Bayou BVenue: Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens

Address: 6003 Memorial Drive, Houston, TX 77007
Times: 1-5pm
Visit Event Website
Area of Town: Memorial Park/Washington Corridor
Free Admission: Noend Collection and Gardens
With performers, crafts, activities, refreshments, and much more, join the The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston to celebrate Independence Day at Houston’s home for American decorative arts and paintings. A reading of the Declaration of Independence beings at 3 p.m. on the Diana Terrace of the Bayou Bend house and will be followed by birthday cake. And don’t forget to sign the giant replica of the Declaration of Independence before you leave to remind us the freedom and privileges we have in this country.

Missour City’s 4th of July Celebration

Location: Buffalo Run Park
Address: 1122 Buffalo Run Blvd., Missouri City, TX 77489
Times: 6pm-10pm
Visit Event Website
Free Admission: Yes
This July 4th celebration is an evening event. Starting at 6pm, free activities, such as moonwalks, a rock wall, mechanical bulls and pony rides will be available to entertain all ages until 9pm. Food will be available on site for purchase. But come early as the first 600 kids will receive a free giveaway (must be 12 years old or under). Shortly fter the festivities, the fireworks show will start around 9:15pm. Thurgood Marshall High School’s parking lot, next to Buffalo Run Park, will be available for guests to park their cars at.

Luckey’s Pub heights 4th of July Bash

Location: Lucky’s Pub
Venue: Lucky’s Pub
Address: 801 St. Emanuel, Houston, TX 77003
Phone:713-862-2400
Times: 5-????
Visit Event Website
Area of Town: EaDo/East End
Free Admission: Yes
No Admission, Beer and Drink Specials, Sno-Cones, Grilling!!! Kids welcome!! The best spot in the Heights to watch the fire works!!!!!!!!

The Katy Freedom Celebration

Location: Katy Mills
Venue: Katy Mills
Address: 5000 Katy Mills Circle, Katy, TX 77494
Times: 9 pm
Visit Event Website
Free Admission: Yes
The Katy Freedom Celebration fireworks display will be launched between the east side of the mall and Katy Fort Bend Road. This display begins at approximately 9pm and can be viewed from several mils around the mall area.