Free and Cheap Events in Houston this Weekend

Free and Cheap Events in Houston this Weekend

Our top picks for Free and Cheap Events in Houston this Weekend of January 17.

Check out the full list below!


Editor’s Note: We work hard to bring you the most up-to-date information. However, all information is subject to change! As always, please verify with the organizer before heading out! Also, please note that this article may contain affiliate links. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products and services that we genuinely believe will benefit our readers!

In case you are wondering about the choice of listings in this article, here is how we come up with our recommendations.

Check out our recent articles on the Happy Hour Katy Texas, Best Cheap Restaurants in the Heights Houston, and Restaurants Where Kids Eat Free in the Heights Houston!


Free and Cheap Events in Houston this Weekend

Farmers Market on Navigation

Immerse yourself in a vibrant tapestry of culture as you explore a diverse selection of fresh produce, locally sourced delicacies, and handcrafted treasures.

When: Sunday, January 19, 2025 | 10 am – 2 pm
How Much: Free

Movie Night: Mothra vs Godzilla

Godzilla vs Mothra

Image credit: Discovery Green

Go back in time and enjoy this 1964 classic where Godzilla battles the genetically engineered moth called Mothra in Japan.

When: Saturday, January 18, 2025 | 7 pm – 8:30 pm
How Much: Free

Things to do in Houston this Weekend – Friday

Nurse John: The Short-Staffed Tour 

Get to meet the delightful Nurse John and hear all of his crazy tales and hilarious anecdotes from his years in the medical field. You’ll surely end up in stitches at the end of the show so make sure to bring friends or a date.

When: Friday, January 17, 2025 | 7 pm
How Much: $35 – $45

Professional Bull Riders: Unleash the Beast

Things to do in Houston this weekend of January 17 | Professional Bull Riders: Unleash the Beast

Image credit: PBR

For the second year in a row, the thrilling world of Professional Bull Riders (PBR) returns to Toyota Center with the Michelob ULTRA PBR Houston.

Experience the electrifying clash of man and beast as the top 30 bull riders in the world face off against the most formidable bovine athletes. And witness the raw power, adrenaline-fueled action, and unpredictable excitement that makes PBR one of the most thrilling live sporting events.

When: Friday – Saturday, January 17 – 18, 2025
How Much: Ticket prices vary

Over the Moon: Broadway Reimagined starring Teresa Zimmerman

Get ready to rediscover your favorite Broadway hits like never before with Over the Moon. Teresa, a vocal powerhouse, will breathe new life into these timeless classics with innovative arrangements and genre-bending sounds.

Accompanied by a live band, she will deliver a captivating performance that seamlessly blends the magic of traditional Broadway with the energy of contemporary music.

The Founders Club will also transform into an intimate cabaret setting where you can enjoy pre-show cocktails and delectable bites.

When: Friday – Saturday, January 17 – 18, 2025 | 7:30 pm – 9 pm
How Much: $58 – $82

Free and Cheap Events in Houston this Weekend – Saturday

Radiant Nature

The Chinese Lantern Festival is back at the Houston Botanic Garden, and it’s bigger and brighter than ever. Immerse yourself in a world of wonder with larger-than-life lantern installations that celebrate the beauty of nature and the promise of the Lunar New Year.

Wander through a mile-long path filled with over 50 stunning displays, perfect for capturing unforgettable moments for your social media feeds. From a massive iridescent dome to a life-sized Chinese palace, every corner of the garden is transformed into a magical wonderland. This event always makes my holiday activities list and sometimes we even make a return trip!

When: Saturday, January 18, 2025 – February 23, 2025 | 6 pm 
How Much: $28.50 for ages 3 and up | Free for kids 3 and under

2nd Annual Mix-MATCH: A Mixed Art Festival

2nd Annual Mix-MATCH: A Mixed Art Festival

Image credit: MATCH

Experience a captivating tapestry of theater, dance, music, performance art, film, and visual art, all under one roof. Choose from over 20 captivating performances and exhibits, ranging from intimate solo acts to grand ensemble presentations.

You can also enjoy delectable treats from food trucks and engage in interactive activities that will ignite your creativity.

When: Saturday, January 18, 2025 | 3 pm -10 pm
How Much: $15 for a single performance | $40 for a full festival pass

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban in Concert

Relive the enchantment of your favorite wizarding world as the thrilling tale of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban™ unfolds on the big screen, accompanied by the soaring melodies of a live symphony orchestra.

When: Saturday – Sunday, January 18 – 19, 2025 
How Much: Starts at $56

Coffee Lovers Run

Calling all coffee connoisseurs and caffeine champions! Fuel your love for coffee and your need for speed at the Coffee Lovers Marathon! You’ll get a free race shirt to commemorate the event.

When: Saturday, January 18, 2025 | 7 am – 10 am
How Much: Starts at $30

America’s largest interactive comedy murder dinner theatre show is here, and it’s unlike anything you’ve experienced before!

While you savor a delicious dinner, you’ll be immersed in a hilarious mystery where the culprit could be anyone in the room – even your dinner companion! Each ticket includes a delectable dinner, impeccable service, and a whole lot of unexpected twists and turns.

When: Saturday, January 18 – 25, 2025 | 6 pm – 8:30 pm
Where: Hilton Houston Plaza, 6633 Travis St, Houston, TX 77030
How Much: $76.95

Cistern Illuminated

Cistern Illuminated transforms the historic Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern into a mesmerizing underground wonderland. Witness the cavernous space illuminated by a dazzling play of light and shadow, echoing through the 221 towering columns. Accompanied by a captivating soundscape, this immersive experience will transport you to another world.

When: Saturday, January 18 – 26, 2025 
How Much: $15 

Things to Do in Houston This Weekend – Sunday

December: a love years in the making

Follow the enchanting journey of a professor and her former student as their bond blossoms through a poignant exchange of letters, heartfelt writings, and soul-stirring poetry over the course of two decades. 

Let the lyrical dialogue and poignant moments transport you through time, as you witness the enduring power of love and the profound impact of human connection.

When: Sunday, January 19 – February 2, 2025 
How Much: Starts at $31

 Chevron Houston Marathon

Things to do in Houston this weekend of January 17 | Chevron Houston Marathon

Image credit: Chevron Houston Marathon

Experience the thrill of the city as you conquer 26.2 miles in the Chevron Houston Marathon, tackle the exhilarating 13.1 miles of the Aramco Houston Half Marathon, or join the vibrant energy of the 3.1-mile We Are Houston 5K.

Celebrate the 53rd running of this iconic event in 2025 and create unforgettable memories amidst the spirit of camaraderie and Texas hospitality.

When: Sunday, January 19, 2025 | 7 am – 2:30 pm 

Also, check out our weekly updates on Things to Do in Houston with Kids this Weekend.

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Natalie Dulaney