The best things to do in Houston this weekend

Beginning November 1 and continuing every Friday, Candlelight Concerts bring melodies to venues across the city and feature music by top artists and pop culture icons like Adele, Beyonce, and the music of Bridgerton. Venues are beautiful and intimate, and each artist is represented with a twist that will give you a new appreciation for their talent. 

Visit Houston’s Museum of Fine Arts for free every Thursday and see the only Gaugin in the World exhibition, opening November 3. Enjoy free admission at Houston Museum of Natural Science on Tuesdays from 5–8pm, and take the kids to the Children’s Museum any Thursday from 5–8 pm for free play. Or visit the animals at Houston Zoo—it’s free all day on the first Tuesday of every month. 

If you love fantasy, art, and music, immerse yourself in this massive art installation with lots of nods to Houston and Texas. November marks its first month in Houston. Themed Radio Tave, the multisensory experience places you in a radio station in another dimension. You’ll explore dozens of rooms bathed in a kaleidoscope of colors that represent the talent of over 100 artists, half of whom hail from Texas.

Now that the weather has cooled, it’s the perfect time to enjoy Houston from the river that runs through it. Bike alongside the current, kayak past Houston’s skyscrapers, or enjoy a romantic picnic dinner while watching the sun set over the water. It’s a whole different way to take in the city.

The former home of Ima Hogg will wow décor and architecture lovers, and the 14 acres of colorful flora surrounding it will inspire organic gardeners. The grounds are rarely more beautiful than in the fall and feature stately formal garden rooms contrasted against a riot of wildflowers, evergreens, fountains, and statuary. 

This annual event celebrates Texas’ ties to the Mexican community, its traditions, and its celebrations. The parade is a showcase of performers, costumes, and music meant to keep alive the spirit of loved ones who have died. Festivities begin at 2pm and the parade begins at 7pm.

If you love historic homes, this one’s for you. Tour everything from a Victorian cottage to a mid-century home to a classic, and get an insider’s look at the legendary Eldorado Ballroom and South Main Baptist Church. It’s a great way to see the eclectic neighborhoods that make up H-Town and pick up some design tips along the way.

Become one of Santa’s elves and get to work on everyone’s lists at this much-anticipated shopping extravaganza. You’ll find unique items made by hundreds of artisans, all under one roof. Gift items fall under every category—apparel, toys, food, accessories, home décor, and on and on. Bonus: Admission proceeds benefit the Houston Ballet Foundation.

Winter sports are rarely an option this far south, but Discovery Green makes the impossible possible with its yearly—and highly popular—outdoor ice skating rink. The almost 7,800 sq. ft. rink is in the heart of downtown, so evening skaters and hot cocoa drinkers will be immersed in the glow of the Houston skyline.

In the continued debate over whether Tim Burton’s animated classic is a Halloween or Christmas movie, one thing is certain—people love it. While you watch the movie on the big screen, the Houston Symphony performs the soundtrack live, adding just the right amount of spooky fun.

Your favorite movies–including those of the holiday variety–just got a whole lot more interesting. Make a cozy night of it with a bucket of popcorn under the stars and catch some of your favorite classics like Superbad and The Holiday and new releases like Wicked. The vibe is family-friendly, and the fun is old-school.

The second in a series that fuses talent and culture, this event offers a steamy night of soul, R&B, jazz, and funk. Presented by KTSU 90.9FM, the November show will feature vocalist BJ The Chicago Kid, female phenom Stout, and Grammy-winning drummer Chris Dave and The Drumhedz.

It’s a different take on an African safari, with giant animal replicas covered in colorful lights. Kids will love running from a platypus to a pelican, oohing and ahhing over their holiday cheer. Be sure to toast s’mores, and don’t miss the “flower” exhibits arrayed in lights. 

No holiday is complete without this Christmas classic and one that has become a cherished Houston tradition. Your ticket will transport everyone from kids to grandparents to the Kingdom of Sweets. Take it a toe-step further and grab your own sweets, along with a behind-the-scenes tour, with a VIP Experience ticket.

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California sculptor David Best creates giant temples from textured, patterned salvaged wood. The public art projects are non-denominational spaces meant to draw people inside to reflect and spend time with others. Best’s first temple in Houston is on display in early November in cooperation with the Orange Show, and you don’t want to miss it.