The first weekend of October brings cultural festivals, contemporary art, comedy and family activities across the Houston area. These things to do in Houston this weekend offer options for different ages, interests and budgets.
Scattered thunderstorms are possible throughout the weekend. Attendees should check event websites for weather-related changes before leaving home.
Celebrate Chicano Music at Miller Outdoor Theatre
The 47th annual Festival Chicano continues Friday and Saturday at Miller Outdoor Theatre. The free event celebrates Chicano culture through Tejano, conjunto, mariachi and other musical traditions.
Little Joe y La Familia headlines Friday with Ram Herrera opening. David Lee Garza performs Saturday. Covered seating requires a free ticket, while the hill remains open without tickets.
Performances begin at 7 p.m. Visit Miller Outdoor Theatre for seating information and livestream options.
Visit the Original Greek Festival
The Original Greek Festival celebrates its 60th anniversary at Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 3511 Yoakum Blvd.
Visitors can enjoy Greek food, pastries, wine, live music, traditional dancing and cathedral tours. A marketplace and children’s activities are also available.
The festival runs Friday from 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Admission is free Friday until 3 p.m. Regular adult admission is $10, while children 12 and younger enter free. Details are available at GreekFestival.org.
Explore Untitled Art Houston
Untitled Art Houston returns to the George R. Brown Convention Center from Friday through Sunday.
The contemporary art fair features 99 galleries along with performances, special projects, panel discussions and guided tours. Participating artists and galleries represent Houston, other Texas cities and international markets.
Tickets and program information are available through the Untitled Art website.
Attend Southern Smoke Festival
More than 85 chefs and beverage professionals will gather at Discovery Green for the Southern Smoke Festival on Saturday.
The event runs from 4 to 8 p.m. General admission includes food, drinks, live music and culinary programming. Tickets cost $225 before fees.
Festival proceeds support emergency relief and mental health services for food and beverage workers. Tickets and entry information are available from the Southern Smoke Foundation.
Enjoy Zoo Boo After Dark
The Houston Zoo’s monthlong Zoo Boo celebration offers pumpkins, seasonal displays, animal activities and family photo opportunities.
Friday features extended hours and Fall Fest Night activities. The evening includes glowing pumpkins, illuminated displays, a spooky forest and other attractions. Last entry is at 8 p.m.
Zoo Boo is included with regular admission and remains free for zoo members. Reservations are available through the Houston Zoo.
See Jo Koy at Toyota Center
Comedian Jo Koy brings his “Koy Meets World Tour” to Toyota Center on Friday.
The show begins at 8 p.m., with doors opening at 7 p.m. His stand-up frequently draws from family relationships, cultural experiences and everyday life.
Tickets remain available through the Toyota Center.
Raise a Stein at Karbachtoberfest
Karbach Brewing Company closes its three-weekend Karbachtoberfest celebration from Friday through Sunday.
The event features German-style beer, brats, stein-hoisting contests, live entertainment and dog races. Houston’s Selena tribute group Bidi Bidi Banda performs Saturday at 6:30 p.m.
Event updates are available through Karbach Brewing Company.
Several activities take place outdoors, so visitors should prepare for rain and possible roadway flooding. Checking parking information, ticket availability and weather updates in advance can help keep weekend plans on track.