Discovery Green, downtown Houston’s landmark urban park, announces its fall season with signature free, family-friendly arts, educational and cultural programming.
Discovery Green’s fall schedule kicks the season into high gear with the debut of The TUNNEL by BIG ART, a large-scale, interactive art installation that takes visitors on a journey of discovery. During opening night on Thursday, September 5, Houstonians will have the opportunity to hear from Paul Magnuson of BIG ART and be among the first to learn who the inaugural Art Lab fellows are.
The park celebrates the vibrant culture of México with two signature events. México en el Corazón takes Houstonians on a magical evening of music and performances by Guadalajara Folkloric Ballet, the Mariachi Juvenil Colotlán, Pepe and its Pepillos, and the charro flourish champion, Jesús Ortiz. While Día de los Muertos honors the memory of those who are no longer with us through a night of music and art. Houston artist Angel Quesada will build a special community ofrenda where friends and families may place photos of their loved ones.
“Discovery Green’s fall programming line-up speaks to our commitment to deliver innovative programming across arts and culture,” said Kathryn Lott, president of Discovery Green Conservancy. “From interactive art installations and cultural celebrations to free movie screenings and fitness classes, we strive to serve as a welcoming environment for locals and visitors alike.”
As part of Discovery Green’s commitment to shining a light on the talents that exist in Houston, musicians are invited to nominate themselves for the Discover Houston Music Showcase to be held on November 15. Winners will also receive $1000, while two runner ups will receive $500. Nominations are accepted August 1 – August 30 at discoverygreen.com/discoverhoustonmusic. Houstonians will have an opportunity to vote for their favorites beginning September 17.
Catch free screenings of West Side Story, plus family favorites Puss and Boots, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 and Inside Out 2 under the glimmering lights of downtown Houston, or bring the little ones to Toddler Tuesdays, where children can discover their love for reading. The fall season also marks the return of Halloween-favorite, Scream on the Green®, a ghoulish evening with costumes, psychics, games and a special screening of Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire.
Fitness enthusiasts can also participate in any of four weekly classes, including a Saturday morning Hatha flow, a Monday evening class led entirely in Spanish, a gentle flow and sound meditation on Tuesday evenings and bilingual Zumba on Wednesdays.
Discovery Green is located at 1500 McKinney St. (Houston, TX 77010). Events are free and open to the public unless otherwise noted. All events are subject to change. Please refer to discoverygreen.com for updates.
FALL PROGRAMMING SCHEDULE
Sunday, September 1 – Thursday, November 14
ART
Thursday, September 5 – Sunday, October 6
6 am – 11 pm
Discovery Green invites you on a journey to a bright future this fall at The TUNNEL. Visitors will experience 12-foot-tall structures arranged to form a 100-foot-long tunnel of magical light and sound. Other visitors may serve as “pilots” using an interactive device to manipulate the array and guide your path. Over 150 LED bars are pixel-mapped to create a vortex of light, pulling visitors through. This interactive art installation was created by the Canadian group BIG ART and the tour producer is Creos.
Thursday, September 5
6 – 8 pm
The TUNNEL’s creator, Paul Magnuson of BIG ART, discusses the interactive temporary art installation’s creation and other exciting projects. Discovery Green’s inaugural Art Lab fellows will be announced. Drinks and mingling start at 6 pm followed by the artist talk at 7 pm.
West Side Story with Houston Grand Opera
Saturday, September 28
7 – 10 pm
Enjoy a screening of one of the best musicals ever produced ahead of Houston Grand Opera’s (HGO) upcoming presentation of the stage version. The evening will feature an introductory discussion that will place the classic movie in the context of its era, as well as a performance from HGO’s Butler Studio artists. The iconic 1960s film tells the story of star-crossed lovers Maria and Tony, with music by Leonard Bernstein and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim. (1961, 151 min., PG)
SPECIAL EVENTS
Friday, September 20
7 – 10 pm
Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of Mexico with this group of mariachis and ballet folklorico dancers. More than 50 performers create a magical night with gorgeous costumes, music and culture. The cast is made up of the Guadalajara Folkloric Ballet, the Mariachi Juvenil Colotlán, Pepe and its Pepillos, and the charro flourish champion, Jesús Ortiz. Additional screens will be set up on the Jones Lawn to accommodate a larger audience. The tour is presented by the North American Institute for Mexican Advancement. Univision is the official media sponsor.
Flea by Night presented by Green Mountain Energy
Saturdays, September 21 and October 19
6 – 10 pm
Treasure hunt for one-of-a-kind vintage, handmade, recycled and local goods while enjoying food trucks and musical entertainment. Flash Gordon Parks will perform during the October 19th event.
Tuesday, October 8
7 – 9 pm
Get to know downtown Houston neighbors and representatives from the Houston Police Department with music by pianist Nabor, games, picnic foods and a celebration of community.
Friday, October 25
7 – 10 pm
Scream on the Green® returns with a costume contest, living sculptures, palm readers, psychics, games, music and more. Enjoy a screening of Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire. Those participating in the costume contest must pre-register at discoverygreen.com/screamonthegreen by 11:59 pm on Thursday, October 24.
Friday, November 1
7 – 10 pm
Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a Mexican holiday where families and friends gather to celebrate, remember and prepare special foods in honor of those who are no longer living. Families will enjoy hands-on art activities, artist demos, vendors and more. Expect cultural performances and music by Houston’s own Nick Gaitan, who will play Tejas roots music, such as boleros, Tex-Mex and Chicano soul.
Discovery Green has commissioned Houston artist Angel Quesada to build a community ofrenda, or altar, to help visitors remember their loved ones during Día de los Muertos. Visitors are invited to place images (copies of photos only) or recuerdos of their loved ones on the community altar. Please do not bring anything irreplaceable.
Indigenous Peoples Day
Monday, October 14
12 – 1 pm
Enjoy a lunchtime performance in celebration of Indigenous Peoples’ Day. The event will open with a land acknowledgement presented by Abuela M’api Rainflowa, founder of Calmecac Indigenous Organization (CIO). After the presentation expect a performance by CIO traditional dancers and drummers.
ENTERTAINMENT
Bank of America’s Screen on the Green
Enjoy a family-friendly movie under the stars. Guests are welcome to bring blankets, camping chairs and snacks. Food, beer and wine are available for purchase at The Lake House. Please leave alcohol and glass containers at home.
Costumes are strongly encouraged. Arrive early for games and activities.
Saturday, September 21
7 – 9:30 pm
Swashbuckling feline Puss in Boots fights to save his town with the help of Kitty Softpaws and Humpty Dumpty. Together, they try to steal magic beans from the outlaw duo of Jack and Jill. (2011, 90 min., PG)
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3
Saturday, October 26
7 – 9:30 pm
In Marvel Studios’ Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, our beloved band of misfits are looking a bit different these days. Peter Quill, still reeling from the loss of Gamora, must rally his team around him to defend the universe along with protecting one of their own. A mission that, if not completed successfully, could quite possibly lead to the end of the Guardians as we know them. (2023, 150 min., PG-13)
Saturday, November 2
7 – 9 pm
Disney and Pixar’s Inside Out 2 returns to the mind of newly minted teenager Riley just as headquarters is undergoing a sudden demolition to make room for something entirely unexpected: new Emotions! Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear and Disgust, who’ve long been running a successful operation by all accounts, aren’t sure how to feel when Anxiety shows up. And it looks like she’s not alone. (2024, 100 min., PG)
FAMILIES AND CHILDREN
Saturday, September 28
9 am – 2 pm
Discover the wonders of nature, starting with the animals and resources in Houston’s own backyard! Texas Parks and Wildlife invites you to get to know the great outdoors at the 12th annual Take Me Outdoors Houston, a free, family-oriented outdoor festival at Discovery Green. Exhibitors will provide hands-on activities, booths and opportunities to engage audiences and inspire curiosity. A live predator bird demonstration by Birds of Prey will take place at 11 am and 1 pm.
Tuesdays, October 1 – 29
10:30 am – 12:30 pm
Toddlers and their caretakers enjoy a morning of interactive story time, costumed character meet and greets, activities, and soft play equipment from Toddler Towns and activities from Collab Lab. Every week features a themed story time with crafts to help toddlers discover the joy of reading and imagination. Costumes are encouraged.
October 1
Book: Monsters, Inc. by RH Disney
Characters: Mike and Sully
October 8
Books: Curious George Votes by H. A. Rey and Millie the Mayor Baby by Jessica Young
Character: Curious George
October 15
Book: Trolls 5-Minute Stories by DreamWorks Trolls
Characters: Poppy and Branch
October 22
Book: A Halloween Mystery! by David Croatto
Character: Scooby Doo
October 29
Book: Game Night by Judy Katschke
Characters: Vamparina and Bridget
Plus a Halloween costume contest
HEALTHY LIVING
From yoga to bilingual Zumba, there’s a free fitness class for every wellness passion at Discovery Green. On-site registration is required. Please bring your own towel, water and a mat for yoga classes. Visit discoverygreen.com/fitness for updates.
Clase de Yoga Respiración Consciente y Meditación de Sonidos en Español
Mondays, September 2 – November 11
6:30 – 7:30 pm
Esta clase ofrece prácticas de Yoga, Respiración y Meditación de Sonidos a la comunidad latina e hispanohablante de Houston. Guiada por Natalia Uribe y Sebastián Romero seguida de un baño de sonido y meditación a cargo de Saumil Manek.
Gentle Yoga Flow and Sound Meditation
Tuesdays, September 3 – November 12
6:30 – 7:30 pm
Strengthen your body, relax your mind and find your center with this dynamic flow yoga and sound healing. Led by Farida Meguid with crystal sound bowls played by Saumil Manek.
Zumba Bilingue / Bilingual Zumba
Wednesdays, September 11 – November 13
6:30 – 7:30 pm
Learn Zumba in English and Spanish with Laly La Mega. This easy-to-follow cardio workout will have you dancing your way to a strong and healthy body.
Hatha Yoga
Saturdays, September 7 – November 9
9 – 10 am
A basic vinyasa yoga class for enhanced awareness and a strong, healthy body led by Andria Dugas. This Saturday class is a perfect way to start the weekend strong.
Recycling Saturdays
Saturdays, September 7 – November 9
11 am – 2 pm
Bring your glass, paper, cardboard, plastic and aluminum to a recycling station provided by the City of Houston.
World Mental Health Day Wellness Walk
Thursday, October 10
6 pm – 7:30 pm
Join Houston artist, educator and meditation guide Andrea Venson on a walk through Discovery Green’s gardens. Take a break, relax and learn how taking a moment to reconnect with nature can improve your mental health and wellness. A simple art activity will be included.
OTHER PUBLIC EVENTS
These events are held at Discovery Green and open to the public but produced by other entities. Tickets may be required. More information at discoverygreen.com/rentals.
Consider holding your next party, festival or corporate event at Discovery Green and support this uncommonly beautiful urban greenspace.
Red Bull Showrun Houston Presented by Ford
Saturday, September 7
Red Bull Fan Zone opens: 10 am
Red Bull Showrun: 12 – 2 pm
Red Bull Fan Zone closes: 3 pm
Join us for an action-packed afternoon as Oracle Red Bull Racing make its Houston debut with a one-day only event. Experience the sights and sounds of F1 up close as Oracle Red Bull Racing’s award-winning race car, RB7, pulls off flawless donuts and roaring burnouts on a custom-built temporary track surrounding Discovery Green. The event is free, but a limited number of upgraded Grandstand tickets are available for purchase. For more information, visit www.redbull.com/us-en/events/red-bull-showrun-houston.
Houston Pumpkin Festival
Friday, September 20 – Sunday, October 27
10 am – 10 pm
Escape the city and immerse yourself in the magic of the Houston Pumpkin Festival. Experience a day filled with family-friendly activities, photo opportunities and the world’s largest bouncy pumpkin. This is a ticketed event. Advanced reservations recommended. For more information, visit https://geoji.com/g/6612?r=3514
Festival de la Salsa
Sunday, September 22
1 – 10 pm
Get ready for a day full of rhythm and flavor at the Houston Salsa Fest. Dance to the best salsa music, enjoy delicious Latin food and immerse yourself in the vibrant Latin culture. Don’t miss the opportunity to live a unique experience in the heart of the city. Free with courtesy tickets. For more information, visit www.elfestivaldelasalsa.com.
Southern Smoke Festival
Saturday, October 5
4 – 8 pm
Southern Smoke Festival, presented by Alaska Seafood, is back on October 5. Southern Smoke Foundation is bringing out the big stars for its annual park party fundraiser. More than 70 incredible food and beverage pros from across the country will join the best wine, spirit, and beer producers and outstanding live music at Discovery Green. Proceeds will benefit Southern Smoke Foundation, which has distributed more than $11.7 million to food and beverage workers nationwide and more than 5,000 no cost counseling sessions. Ticketed event. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.southernsmoke.org/festival/ssf-2024.
Korean Festival
Saturday, October 12: 10 am – 9 pm
Sunday, October 13: 11 am – 7 pm
The Korean Festival showcases the best of Korean food, music, performing arts and culture. Featuring vendors and performers from all over the world, this festival reaches a broad array of Houstonians, including foodies, K-pop fans, families and Houstonians hoping to experience Korean culture. Free to attend. For more information, visit www.kfesthouston.com.
8th Annual Black Heritage Fest
Saturday, October 19
1 – 8 pm
The Black Heritage Fest is a cultural event that celebrates and showcases the rich history, heritage and contributions of the African-American community. The festival features a variety of activities such as live music performances, dance showcases, art exhibitions, historical presentations, food vendors and more. Free to attend. For more information, visit www.tfbhc.org.
Houston Congenital Heart Walk
Sunday, October 20
Registration: 8 am
Opening ceremony: 9 am
Walk: 9:30 am
Event ends: 12 pm
Join passionate walkers, teams, sponsors and volunteers as they support The Children’s Heart Foundation’s mission to advance the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of congenital heart defects by funding the most promising research. The event will be filled with fun activities, entertainment, research updates and a family-friendly one-mile walk. Free to attend. For more information, visit www.chfwalk.org.
IGBO Fest Houston
Saturday, November 9
3 – 10 pm
Experience West African traditional dances, cultural presentations and jollof rice. Free to attend. For more information, visit www.igbofesthouston.org.
Story Square
Saturday, November 9
10 am – 6 pm
Journey to Story Square, where alphabet magic spells fun family learning. This day is sure to dazzle with the bliss of alphabet magic and an unforgettable haven for families with children of all ages. Learn together with fun at the first-ever Texas Family Literacy Festival. Free to attend. For more information, visit www.ourstorysquare.com.
