Free and Cheap Events in Houston this weekend of October 18 Include Bastrop Art Fest, Third Coast PrideFest Parade, & more!

Free and Cheap Events in Houston this Weekend

Free and Cheap Events in Houston this Weekend

Our top picks for Things to do in Houston this weekend of October 18.

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, Houston Botanic Garden Tickets, Pumpkin Patches in Houston 2024, and Corn Mazes in Houston 2024!


Free Events in Houston this Weekend

Musiqa: Sound and Light

Immerse yourself in a breathtaking audiovisual experience with Musiqa for Sound and Light. Their performance combines live contemporary chamber music with visual art, creating a marvelous spectacle of both art mediums. 
 
When: Friday, October 18, 2024 | 7:30 pm
How Much: Free

Bastrop Art Fest

Things to do in Houston this weekend of October 18 | Bastrop Art Fest

Image credit: Lost Pines Art Center

Enjoy a full day of hands-on activities, arts and crafts vendors, games, demonstrations, and things to do for kids at the Bastrop Art Fest. Live demonstrations will include glassblowing and a bronze pour by Pyrology. 
 
This year, the festival will also feature a performance from the Okinawa Tomonokai Dance Ensemble from Austin and Bastrop High School’s Bear Stage Theater Company. 
 
When: Saturday, October 19, 2024 | 10 am – 4 pm
How Much: Free

I Just Want to Celebrate! Songs of the ’70s 

Enjoy a concert by the Houston Chamber Choir featuring music of the 70s from tunes by the Bee Gees, ABBA, the Jackson 5, Carly Simon, Roberta Flack, and more.
 
When: Saturday, October 19, 2024 | 7:30 pm 
How Much: No cover

Third Coast PrideFest Parade

Things to do in Houston this weekend of October 18 | Third Coast PrideFest Parade

Image credit: Third Coast PrideFest

Join the Third Coast PrideFest as it flied through the streets of Downtown Galveston for their 2nd annual parade. The theme this year is “Galveston is a Safe Space.”  There will also be a family-friendly area at Hendley Green with free entertainment for all ages. 

When: Sunday, October 20, 2024 | 2 pm – 4 pm
How Much: Free

Things to do in Houston this Weekend – Friday

Space Explorers: The Infinite

Explore the depths of space in virtual reality alongside a crew of international astronauts at Sawyer Yards this weekend. This one-hour journey will give you access to never-before-seen 360-degree videos captured in space.
 
See breathtaking views of Earth, experience the life of an astronaut in space, and experience Ryoji Ikeda’s immersive audiovisual art installation. 
 
When: Friday, October 18, 2024 | 11 am – 7 pm
How Much: Starts at $38.50 | $29 for kids aged 8 – 12 | $34 for students, military, and seniors

Comedian Jackie Fabulous Live

Get ready Houston! Jackie Fabulous is coming to town for 4 shows to give you much joy and laughter with her hilariously entertaining, encouraging, and empowering comedy.
 
When: Friday, October 18, 2024 | 7:30 pm 
How Much: Starts at $32.05

Free and Cheap Events in Houston this Weekend – Saturday

Fran Kelly Fall Garden Tour

Take a peek into the gardens of six gorgeous Historic Homes and the League-Kempner House in this self-paced tour. The tour also includes a craft market and a silent auction.

When: Saturday, October 19, 2024 | 9 am – 4 pm
How Much: $20

Artoberfest in Historic Downtown Galveston

Artoberfest in Historic Downtown Galveston

Image credit: Galveston Island

Head over to Galveston and celebrate the community’s annual juried arts festival, ArtoberFest! The event will welcome 420 artists from across the US for 2 days of artist demonstrations, food, and entertainment in downtown Galveston. 
 
When: Saturday, October 19, 2024 | 10 am – 6 pm
How Much: $5 | Free for kids 12 and under

Houston Filipino Street Festival

Houston Filipino Street Festival

Image credit: Filipino Young Professionals of Houston (FYP)

Celebrate the vibrant Filipino culture at the Houston Filipino Street Festival! Get to see live performances and taste mouthwatering Filipino food in an embrace of cultural diversity. 
 
When: Saturday, October 19, 2024 | 12 pm – 7 pm
How Much: Starts at $17 | Free for kids 7 and under 

Houston’s Best Dang Fried Chicken Contest

 Witness the city’s most popular chicken purveyors face off to be named the best in Houston this weekend at Karbach Brewing. Every attendee will get to sample the entrees and vote for their favorite. 
 
When: Saturday, October 19, 2024 | 1 pm – 4 pm
How Much: $50 | $25 for registered Lupus Warriors | Free for kids 12 and under

Seagull II Haunted Harbor Tours

Embark on a sunset tour aboard the Seagull II watercraft and hear spooky stories of the haunted history of Galveston’s harborside. 
 
When: Saturday, October 19, 2024 | 4 pm
How Much: $35

Monsters and Margaritas Pickleball Mixer

Get mingling at the San Luis Resort’s second annual round-robin Halloween-inspired mixer designed for all pickleball skill levels. Expect pickleball action, outdoor games and activities, tasty ghost- and monster-themed margaritas, a costume contest, and more. Costumes are highly encouraged. 
 
$5 from each ticket will benefit the National Breast Cancer Foundation.
 
When: Saturday, October 19, 2024 | 4 pm – 8 pm
How Much: Starts at $55  

Ghost Tours of the 1859 Ashton Villa

Tour the first and second floors of this historic Galveston villa while learning about the Brown family, including Bettie Brown, and judge for yourself if her spirit still resides in the family home. 
 
When: Saturday, October 19, 2024 | 6 pm
How Much: $45 

Cemetery Tours at Calvary Cemetery

Explore one of Galveston’s most noted cemeteries, the Calvary Cemetery in this 60-minute tour. The cemetery is the burial place of Nicholas Clayton, home to GHF’s Opperman Mausoleum, and more historic sites. 
 
When: Saturday, October 19, 2024 | 6 pm
How Much: $35 

Things to Do in Houston This Weekend – Sunday

Lego Build Party

Houston Toy Museum is partnering with Eureka Heights Brew to host a Lego Build Party this weekend! Guests can choose from 15 different Lego sets with options for everyone. 
 
To join, pre-order and reserve the set you want to build. Then, at the event, build it yourself or share it with a friend or partner. 
 
When: Sunday, October 20, 2024 | 4 pm – 7 pm
How Much: $9.99 – $99.99 (Prices are for the Lego sets you want to build and take home)

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

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Things to Do in Houston This Weekend of

October 18, 2024

There’s plenty to look forward to in Houston throughout the work week. However, weekends are especially fun in the Bayou City! 

Outdoor Escapes

Weekends in Houston are synonymous with outdoor enjoyment. Discovery Green, a downtown oasis, transforms from a weekday business hub into a lively community space. Expect live music, food trucks, and family-friendly activities. Buffalo Bayou Park, another urban gem, offers kayaking, biking, and leisurely strolls along the scenic trails.

For more outdoor escapes check out our article on the Best Parks in Houston as well as some great ideas on Outdoor Things to Do in Houston.

Festival Fever

Houston’s weekend calendar is a vibrant tapestry of festivals. The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, while primarily a spring event, is a prime example of the city’s festival spirit. This massive event transforms into a carnival of rodeos, concerts, and food. For a taste of the city’s diverse culture, the Houston Greek Festival offers traditional food, music, and dance. Music enthusiasts can indulge in the Bayou Music Center’s free outdoor concerts, a weekend staple.

Cultural Delights

While Houston’s museums like the Museum of Fine Arts and the Houston Museum of Natural Science are open year-round, weekends often feature special exhibits, workshops, and family-oriented programs. 

The Contemporary Arts Museum Houston often hosts free admission days on weekends, making art accessible to everyone. Additionally, the city’s burgeoning art scene comes alive in weekend art markets, such as the First Saturday Arts Market in the Heights, where local artists showcase their work.

For more cultural delights check out our articles on Best Museums in Houston and if you are looking to save money check out our article on Free Museums in Houston

Dining and Nightlife

Houston’s culinary scene shines brightest on weekends. Brunch is a beloved Houston tradition, with countless restaurants offering delectable options. From classic Southern fare to innovative fusion cuisine, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Take a look at our article on the Best Brunch in Houston

The city’s nightlife also heats up on weekends, with live music venues like House of Blues and White Oak Music Hall drawing crowds. For more information on nightlife in Houston check out our article on Things to do in Houston at Night.

Retail Therapy

Houston’s shopping scene is equally enticing. The Galleria, a luxury shopping destination, offers extended hours and special events on weekends. For a more unique shopping experience, explore the boutiques in the Heights or Montrose. 

Farmers markets like the Urban Harvest Farmers Market offer fresh produce, artisanal goods, and a lively atmosphere. Check out our complete list of the Best Farmers Markets in Houston

Family Fun

Houston is a family-friendly city, and weekends are a time for creating lasting memories. The Houston Zoo, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, and the Children’s Museum of Houston offer interactive exhibits and educational programs. 

During summer there are plenty of Water Parks to help cool you off! If it is too hot to be outside or is a rainy day, you can play at these Indoor Playgrounds in Houston.

In conclusion, Houston’s weekends are a vibrant tapestry of experiences. From outdoor adventures to cultural explorations, the city offers something for everyone. So, whether you’re a local or a visitor, make the most of your Houston weekend and immerse yourself in the city’s energetic spirit.

Traveling within Texas this weekend? Check out Things to Do in San Antonio this Weekend, Things to Do in Austin this Weekend and Things to Do in Dallas this Weekend.

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