Now Introducing the Discovery Green Spring 2020 Schedule!
Presenting more than 250 events including the return of the outdoor roller rink, free concerts, family fun and a citywide Earth Day celebration!
Discovery Green, the 12-acre park in the heart of downtown Houston, announces its Spring 2020 programming schedule. Running from March 1 to June 30, 2020, the calendar of events reinforces the park’s founding mission to be a source of health and happiness for all Houstonians. Most activities at Discovery Green are free thanks to contributions from park users, foundations and sponsors.
“Discovery Green is a ‘village green.’ It’s a place for Houstonians and visitors to explore the environment and the arts, and to create traditions,” said Susanne Theis, programming director. “This spring, we’re proud to present a series of events designed around community and connection.”
House of Cards presented by Bracewell, a public art installation by Israel-based OGE Group featuring work by 20 Houston artists is representative of this central theme. According to the artists of OGE, “the card house also refers to an important structure in society, one that is built by people and their relationships,” much like the growth and development of the park itself.
This season, Discovery Green unveils its new playground and northwest corner entry. Visitors asked for increased lighting, more shade and play space and a welcoming connection to the neighborhood. This project delivers on all these requests and more.
New programs this season include Jazzy Sundays in the Park, a series of free concerts to celebrate the great legacy of jazz in Houston, made possible by the Kinder Foundation; Be My Neighbor Day Presented by PNC Grow Up Great, a festival dedicated to teaching children the importance of community; and Blanc on the Green presented by Bracewell, an elegant evening of magic and wonder that serves as a fundraiser for the park’s public art and programming.
Returning favorites include The Rink — Rolling at Discovery Green, Green Mountain Energy’s Earth Day celebration, Xfinity Cinco de Mayo, Rainbow on the Green® presented by Legacy Community Health – Montrose, live music at Thursday Concerts presented by UHD and Unplugged, family programs, kayak rides and more.
For a complete list of classes, programs and special events, please visit www.discoverygreen.com. A digital press kit with high-res images is available at bit.ly/DGSpring2020PressKit.
DISCOVERY GREEN SPRING 2020 SEASON CALENDAR
Events are free unless otherwise noted. For weather and schedule updates, please visit www.discoverygreen.com.
The Rink — Rolling at Discovery Green
Friday, March 6–Sunday, April 12, 2020
Houston’s first outdoor roller rink returns! Enjoy five weeks of roller-skating fun (including weekly theme nights) at Discovery Green. More info at www.discoverygreen.com/rollerrink.
Hours of Operation
Monday–Thursday 5–10 p.m.
Friday 5–11 p.m.
Saturday & School Holidays* 11 a.m.–11 p.m.
Sunday 11 a.m.–9 p.m.
*School holidays are March 16–20, 2020
Tickets
– Regular admission: $8 (skates not included; available on-site)
– Skate rental: $4
– Cheap Skate Nights: $8 with free skate rental. (Valid Mondays, March 9, 23 and 30; and April 6)
Skating Events
Roller Rink Opening
Friday, March 6, 2020, 6–10 p.m.
Enjoy the French Cultures Festival with music from French-speaking countries while skating outdoors. Skate rentals are free this evening, and the first 50 guests receive free admission to The Rink.
Cheap Skate Nights
Mondays, March 9, 23 and 30; April 6, 2020, 5–10 p.m.
On select Mondays, skate around the rink for just $8 per person with free skate rental.
Time Warp Tuesdays
Tuesdays, March 10–April 7, 2020, 7–9 p.m.
Skate to songs from decades past curated by top local DJs.
Special Skaters and Wheelchair Wednesdays
Wednesdays, March 11, April 1 and 8, 2020, 3:30–5 p.m.
Wednesday, March 18; Saturday, March 21, 2020, 9:30–11 a.m.
These special skating times provide a welcoming environment for skaters with physical and developmental challenges to enjoy The Rink. Special skaters are invited to take to the skating rink with a friend, caregiver or family member to skate or roll. Visit www.discoverygreen.com/specialskaters for times and details. Please note: Non-motorized wheelchairs are always welcome on The Rink.
Throwback Thursdays
Thursdays, March 12–April 9, 2020, 7–9 p.m.
Skate to songs from decades past curated by top local DJs.
Funfetti Fridays
Fridays, March 13, March 27–April 10, 2020, 7–10 p.m.
A live DJ, a light show and roller-skating make for fun Friday nights.
Superhero Saturdays
Saturdays, March 7–April 11, 2020, 4–6 p.m.
Roller-skate with some of your favorite superheroes and storybook characters including Harley Quinn + Black Canary, Mulan and Black Panther.
This is How We Roll Sundays
Sundays, March 8–April 5, 2020, 7–9 p.m.
Roller-skate to Top 40 Hits on Sunday evenings this spring.
Special Events
Rainbow on the Rink
Friday, March 20, 2020, 7–10 p.m.
This special LGBTQ celebration at Discovery Green, emceed by Anthony Hernandez, returns to The Rink with music by DJ Joe Ross. Admission is free; skating fees apply. More info at www.discoverygreen.com/rainbow.
Green Mountain Energy’s Earth Day
Sunday, April 19, 2020, 12–5 p.m.
In partnership with the Citizens’ Environmental Coalition, Discovery Green celebrates the 50th anniversary of Earth Day with Houston’s largest celebration, featuring a farmers market, activities for kids, educational booths and demonstrations, recycling opportunities, live music and more. More info at www.discoverygreen.com/earthday.
Xfinity Cinco de Mayo
Sunday, May 3, 2020, 3–5 p.m.
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo at Discovery Green with ballet folklorico, mariachis and Mexican-inspired performances. More info at discoverygreen.com/cincodemayo.
World Scene on the Green: ENVÀ by Amer I Àfrica
Saturday, June 20, 2020, 7-9 p.m.
Sunday, June 21, 2020, 12-2 p.m.
Two dancers met while performing in a circus in Catalonia, Spain. Now making their U.S. debut, Amer i Àfrica explore the peculiarities of human relationships using movement, humor, acrobatic skill and 500 pounds of straw. During two 50-minute performances, they’ll bring the audience on a journey to knock down the walls that keep us from connecting. The performance, made possible by support from the Ramon Llull Foundation, will feature music from Spain and paella for purchase.
Rainbow on the Green® presented by Legacy Community Health – Montrose
Friday, June 26, 2020, 7–10 p.m.
Discovery Green presents its free annual citywide LGBT celebration with electrifying entertainment, including some of Houston’s best drag performers. More info at www.discoverygreen.com/rainbowonthegreen.
Art
House of Cards presented by Bracewell
Friday, May 1–Sunday, Aug. 2, 2020
This spring, Discovery Green hosts House of Cards by Israel-based OGE Group. Over-sized playing cards, each designed with a unique piece of artwork—including work from 20 Houston artists—form a towering house of cards. At night, the structure is illuminated with choreographed lights, giving the illusion of the house of cards rising, falling and being rebuilt. On view daily during park hours; illuminated nightly from dusk to midnight. More information can be found at www.discoverygreen.com/houseofcards.
Blanc on the Green presented by Bracewell
Thursday, April 30, 2020, 7:30–9:30 p.m.
The Discovery Green Conservancy’s inaugural benefit, Blanc on the Green features a preview for House of Cards and celebrates the inclusion of 20 Houston artists in the international touring exhibit. Eventgoers are invited to dress all in white for a casually elegant evening of live music and performances, photo opportunities, an array of desserts and the first official lighting of the new installation. Ticket prices range from $100 to $500. For details and to purchase tickets visit www.discoverygreen.com/blanc.
Art Bike Parade Sneak Peek
Thursday, May 7, 2020, 6–9 p.m.
Showcasing Art Bikes created by HISD artists and students putting STEAM into action. Materials to decorate bikes and activities provided. This event marks students’ final opportunity to register for the Art Bike Parade and pick up participant packet. Presented in partnership with Avenida Houston, Houston Parks Board and The Orange Show Center for Visionary Art.
Jazzy Sundays in the Parks
Made possible by the Kinder Foundation, the inaugural Jazzy Sundays in the Parks honors the legacy of jazz in Houston. This free concert series begins at Discovery Green (Thursday, April 2; Sundays, April 5–26) for Jazz Appreciation Month (JAM) in April, in partnership with DACAMERA; Jazzy Sundays continue with concerts at Buffalo Bayou Waterworks on Sundays in May and at Emancipation Park on select Sundays in June, as well as Saturday, June 13 for a special Juneteenth celebration. More info at www.discoverygreen.com/jazzy.
On Deck! Kinder HSVPA Lunch Concerts
Wednesdays, April 1–May 6, 2020, 12–1 p.m.
Students from Kinder HSVPA present free lunchtime performances at Discovery Green’s Hess Deck, with lunch specials from The Lake House. More info located at www.discoverygreen.com/hspva.
April 1 HSPVA Mariachi
April 8 HSPVA & TUTS Musical Theatre
April 15 HSPVA Strings
April 22 HSPVA Vocal
April 29 HSPVA Band
May 6 HSPVA Jazz
Entertainment Series presented by Xfinity
Thursday Concerts presented by UHD
These free, family-friendly concerts showcase the best music of the Gulf Coast. Blankets, lawn chairs and picnics are welcome; food, beer and wine are available for purchase. No glass containers or outside beverages. More information can be located at www.discoverygreen.com/thursday-concerts.
Ren Patrick: H-Town Singer Songwriter
Thursday, May 14, 2020, 7–9:30 p.m.
This Houston-based, nationally known singer songwriter is featured on the Spring 2020 season of American Idol. Oliver Penn opens.
Las Fenix: Latina Girl Group
Thursday, May 21, 2020, 7–9:30 p.m.
A band of sisters from Houston who have a national following and a young, bright energy. Morena Roas opens.
AJ McQueen: A Poet to Hip Hop
Thursday, May 28, 2020, 7–9:30 p.m.
Hip-hop rapper with a strong Houston presence. American Psychos open.
Negami: Tejano’s New Wave
Thursday, June 4, 2020, 7–9:30 p.m.
Houston-based Negami spins a fresh take on traditional Tejano sounds. Amanda Solis opens.
Girl Ultra: Mexican R&B Beauty
Thursday, June 11, 2020, 7–9:30 p.m.
Creating a musical language based on the nostalgia for 80’s and 90’s silky smooth sounds in Spanish, Girl Ultra opened a new path for Latin alternative R&B artists. Tee Vee opens.
Doc Loc and Paul Wall: Resident Rapper meets Big Band
Thursday, June 18, 2020, 7–9:30 p.m.
Paul Wall is a pillar of the Texas mixtape community and a leader in hip-hop. Doc Loc and the Swangers big band puts a twist to famous Houston hip-hop. DJ Mav opens.
Bank of America Screen on the Green
Enjoy family-friendly movies with a view of the downtown Houston skyline. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs and arrive early for contests and other activities. Click www.discoverygreen.com/screenonthegreen to view more details!
Shazam!
Saturday, March 14, 2020, 8 p.m.
Preshow activities: 6–8 p.m.
Run Time: 132 min, Rating: PG-13, CC: English
Lion King
Saturday, April 18, 2020, 8:30 p.m.
Preshow activities: 6:30–8:30 p.m.
Run Time: 118 min, Rating: PG, CC: Spanish
Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker
Saturday, May 23, 2020, 8:30 p.m.
Preshow activities: 6:30–8:30 p.m.
Run Time: 142 min, Rating: PG-13, CC: English
Jumanji: The Next Level
Saturday, June 6, 2020, 9 p.m.
Preshow activities: 7–9 p.m.
Run Time: 123 min, Rating: PG-13, CC: Spanish
Unplugged at Discovery Green
Unplugged at Discovery Green brings the best musical acts in town to perform an acoustic concert on the park’s main stage. This popular series challenges bands to rethink and rearrange their songs using only acoustic instruments, resulting in a unique and intimate performance. Organized by Mark C. Austin and Josh Applebee. More information can be found at www.discoverygreen.com/unplugged.
Nick Gaitan
Sunday, March 22, 2020, 4:30–8 p.m.
Opening sets from New Vintage, Jay Bee Zay, Rebecca Chirich and Opie Hendrix.
Cody Jasper
Sunday, April 19, 2020, 12–3:30 p.m.
This special Earth Day celebration features opening sets from BomBrazil, JVS Reel and The Bootleggers, The Flowettes and Warmtapes.
Mother’s Day Special
Sunday, May 10, 2020, 4:30–8 p.m.
Celebrate Mother’s Day with Say Girl Say, Sara Van Buskirk, Swing Rendezvous, Marina Rocksu and Lois Albez.
Bryan Anthony and The Gentleman’s Club
Sunday, June 14, 2020, 4:30–8 p.m.
Opening sets from Blaze X Black, The Skatastrophics, Natalija & Arnaud and Boomtown Brass Band.
Families and Children
Youth Performance Poetry Sessions
Fridays, March 6, April 3, May 1 and June 5, 2020, 6:30–8 p.m.
Writers in the Schools (WITS) leads free writing and performance poetry workshops for poets ages 13 to 19.
Young Writers Workshop
Saturdays, March 7–June 27, 2020, 10:30–11:30 a.m.
Led by Writers In The Schools (WITS), this weekly workshop is Houston’s only free and open writing workshop for kids. The class, which includes a craft provided by Houston Public Library, encourages children to express their thoughts and develop language skills.
FUNomenal Spring Break
Daily, March 16–20, 2020, 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
Celebrate Spring Break with five days of fun for the whole family. Activities will include Mad Science shows, hands-on crafts with Girlstart, Touch a Truck Tuesday, Young Writers Workshops with Houston Public Library Express and more. Learn more at www.discoverygreen.com/springbreak.
Be My Neighbor Day Presented by PNC Grow Up Great
Tuesday, March 24, 2020, 10:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.
Meet Daniel Tiger! Enjoy story time, a crafts station, a neighbor village, fun photo opportunities, music by Uncle Jumbo, Toddler Town and more! The event is produced in partnership with Houston Public Media and Fred Rogers Productions and will include activities to help children learn about the importance of community, giving back and being a caring neighbor! More info at discoverygreen.com/neighbor.
Toddler Tuesdays
Tuesdays, March 24–April 28, 2020, 10:30 a.m.–12 p.m.
Houston Public Library (HPL) teams up with Discovery Green for a morning of fun with story time, activities and crafts. See the full schedule at www.discoverygreen.com/toddlertuesdays.
Healthy Living
Fitness in the Park presented by Sprouts Farmers Market
Sprouts Farmers Market presents a free fitness series at Discovery Green. No pre-registration required, but participants must sign a waiver upon arrival. Bring a towel and water, as well as a mat for yoga classes. Yoga mats can be purchased in the office at Discovery Green between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. Learn more at www.discoverygreen.com/fitness.
Yoga
Mondays, March 2–June 29, 2020, 12–1 p.m. (No class May 25)
Strengthen, relax and recharge during this yoga class for all levels.
Heartfulness Meditation
Mondays, March 2–June 29, 2020, 1–1:15 p.m. (No class May 25)
Get in tune with your inner self during this 15-minute meditation session.
Core-Focused Yoga
Tuesdays, March 3–June 30, 2020, 6:30–7:30 p.m.
Strengthen your body, relax your mind and find your center with this dynamic flow yoga sequence.
Tai Chi
Saturdays, March 7–June 27, 2020, 10–11 a.m.
Focus on slow, meditative movements in this Chinese internal martial art class.
Hatha Yoga
Saturdays, March 7–June 27, 2020, 9–10 a.m.
A basic vinyasa yoga class for enhanced awareness and a strong, healthy body.
Recycling Saturdays
Saturdays, March 7–June 27, 2020, 11 a.m.–2 p.m.
Bring your sorted glass, paper, plastic and aluminum to recycling stations provided by the City of Houston.
Kayak Rides and R/C Boats on Kinder Lake
Saturdays and Sundays, March 1–May 31, 2020, 12–5 p.m.
Daily March 16–20 and June 1–30, 2020
Go for a leisurely kayak ride or navigate a radio-controlled boat around Kinder Lake. Rentals are provided by Bayou City Adventures and are subject to weather conditions. No reservation required. Kayak rentals are $5 per person. Click www.discoverygreen.com/kayak for more information.
Happiness
Flea by Night presented by Green Mountain Energy
Saturdays, March 21, April 18, May 16 and June 20, 2020, 6–10 p.m.
Treasure hunt for one-of-a-kind vintage, handmade, recycled and local goods from over 40 vendors, plus enjoy live music and food trucks along Avenida de las Americas and the park’s Grace Event Lawn. More info at www.discoverygreen.com/flea.
Stargazing with Houston Astronomical Society
Saturday, April 4, 2020, 8–10 p.m.
Join the Houston Astronomical Society (HAS) for a star party in the heart of Space City. Volunteers from HAS will be on-hand with telescopes to show off the moon, other planets in our solar system, various deep-sky objects and maybe even the International Space Station and the Hubble Space Telescope. Weather permitting.
Sundays in the Park
Sundays, March 1–June 28, 2020, 2–5 p.m.
Enjoy lawn games, activities and more.
Urban Bird Walk
Wednesday, April 22, 2020 12–1 p.m.
Gary Clark, author of the Book of Texas Birds, and columnist for the Houston Chronicle, leads an urban bird walk during migratory season to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Earth Day. The first 10 people to arrive will receive an autographed copy of Clark’s book. Meet at The Lake House.
Dining at Discovery Green
The Grove
The Grove Houston is an urban dining concept from the Schiller Del Grande Restaurant Group, and is located on the southern end of Discovery Green overlooking the park’s allée of century-old live oaks. James Beard Award-winning Executive Chef Robert Del Grande and Chef de Cuisine Ryan Williams curate an ever-evolving menu of American fare with a nod to the restaurant’s Gulf Coast locale. For more information, please visit www.thegrovehouston.com.
The Lake House
The Lake House is a family friendly fast-casual concept located on the south shore of Kinder Lake in the heart of Discovery Green. Operated by the Schiller Del Grande Restaurant Group, the Lake House serves burgers, grilled chicken, signature salads, beer, wine and drinks. For more information, please visit www.thelakehousehouston.com.
About Discovery Green
Discovery Green is a highly acclaimed 12-acre park created by a public-private partnership between the City of Houston and the nonprofit Discovery Green Conservancy in downtown Houston, Texas. Since opening in April 2008, the park has welcomed more than 13.5 million visitors. Discovery Green features sprawling lawns, a one-acre lake, an interactive fountain, a playground, public art installations, gardens and an allée of century-old live oaks. The Discovery Green Conservancy works with hundreds of programming partners to present more than 700 artistic, musical, educational, family-friendly and health-focused events each year, most of which are presented free to the public. The park also features two on-site restaurants, the award-winning destination restaurant The Grove and the fast-casual The Lake House, providing visitors with an array of dining options. As a nonprofit organization, the Conservancy raises all the funds needed for the programming that Houstonians enjoy. For more information, please visit www.discoverygreen.com.
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Discovery Green. Reg. U.S. Pat. & Tm. Off.
