Free and Cheap Events in Houston this weekend of September 27 Include Galveston Island Shrimp Festival, Bellaire Foodie Festival, & 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 September 27

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 Best Donuts in Houston, Space Center Houston Discount Tickets, Bayou Art Festival 2024 and Best Food Trucks in Houston! 


Free Events in Houston this Weekend

ROCO in Concert: Remarkable

Witness the world premiere performance by this season’s composer-in-residence Vietnamese-American composer Viet Cuong who drew inspiration from ROCO’s orchestra and the cosmos. Individual musicians in the concert represent stars within constellations that will be projected on the screen. 
 
To close the show, Emmy-winning composer John Wineglass’s “Cityscapes” will be performed with a video showcasing the Houston community. I can’t wait for the Friday night concert, and neither can my family!
 
 
When: Friday, September 27, 2024 | 7:30 pm
How Much: Free

Bat Fest

Are you a fan of bats? Then don’t miss the bat fest at Houston Arboretum and Nature Center this weekend. There will be fun bat-themed activities and crafts for the kids, story time, food trucks, and a blood drive with Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center. 
 
When: Saturday, September 208, 2024 | 10 am – 2 pm
How Much: Free

15th Annual Galveston Island Shrimp Festival

Galveston Island Shrimp Festival

Image credit: Galveston Island

Galveston’s annual Shrimp Festival is here! Expect to taste some of the best shrimp gumbo the Gulf Coast has to offer and enjoy a seafood cook-off, L’il Shrimps Parade, live music, a Strand merchant walkabout, the Ron Hoover Boat Show, and more. 
 
When: Saturday, September 28, 2024 | 10 am – 4 pm 
How Much: Free

3rd Annual Northside Festival

The annual Northside Festival is taking over the Science and Technology Building at the University of Houston-Downtown. The event will feature local artists and vendors at the Shop Local Market, live music and performances, and a salsa-tasting contest.

When: Saturday, September 28, 2024 | 11 am – 6 pm
How Much: Free

GroovFest ’24

Join this Tomball tradition and enjoy a full day of fun at the Tomball Depot Plaza. Expect live entertainment, nostalgic photo opportunities with vintage Volkswagen vehicles, and activities for the kiddos. Feel free to dress up for the photos. My kids love raiding their grandparents closets for the vintage-inspired photos. 
 
When: Saturday, September 28, 2024 | 11 am – 6 pm
How Much: Free

Things to do in Houston this Weekend – Friday

Zoo Boo 2024 Opening Day

Houston’s annual Zoo Boo is opening this weekend! Head over and enjoy fall and Halloween festivities with the family. Have fun at the Pumpkin Lantern Tunnel, the Scary-Go-Round, and more fall-themed animal enrichment activities. Costumes are highly encouraged.
 
When: Friday, September 27, 2024 | 9 am – 5 pm
How Much: $20.20

Fort Bend County Fair

Things to do in Houston this week of September 27 | Fort Bend County Fair

Image credit: Fort Bend County Fair

The Fort Bend County Fair is here! Enjoy live music, entertainment, a livestock show, a BBQ cook-off, a carnival, and more fun stuff for all ages. 
 
When: Friday, September 27, 2024 | 10 am – 11:55 pm
How Much: $4-$50

Houston Lebanese Festival

Enjoy a fun-filled day at the Houston Lebanese Festival. The event will be filled with live music, Lebanese food, family-friendly activities, and more.
 
When: Friday, September 27, 2024 | 5 pm – 10 pm
How Much: Starts at $15 | Free for kids under 12

Free and Cheap Events in Houston this Weekend – Saturday

Shrimp Scamper 5K Fun Run

Things to do in Houston this weekend of September 27 | Shrimp Scamper 5k Fun Run

Image credit: Galveston Island

All fitness levels are invited to join this year’s Shrimp Scamper 5K Fun Run! The run will start at Beerfoot Beach Bar and run along Seawall Boulevard and back. Registration also includes a festival t-shirt, participation medal, free beer, swag, and more. 

When: Saturday, September 28, 2024 | 8 am – 10:30 am
How Much: $47 | $57 for the 5K and a Gumbo Stroll tasting cup

Dog Days

Dog Days

Image credit: Home Run Dugout

Bring your pup over to Home Run Dugout and let them join their dog races and pup eating contest this weekend. The Houston Humane Society will also be there for dog adoptions. 

When: Saturday, September 28, 2024 | 4 pm
How Much: Free

Bellaire Foodie Festival

Bellaire Foodie Festival

Image credit: City of Bellaire, Texas

Foodies, Bellaire is the place to be this weekend! Discover new culinary delights while enjoying unlimited food samplings. There will also be cooking demonstrations, live entertainment, and more. A portion of the proceeds from the event will benefit the Bellaire Police and Fire Foundation. I love the cooking demonstrations. The recipes are just as easy t follow at home. 
 
When: Saturday, September 28, 2024 | 5 pm – 8 pm
How Much: $20-$40

Cocktails, Canines, and Cats Music Festival

Help support affordable veterinary care in Houston at the Emancipet for Cocktails, Canines, and Cats Music Festival. The show will feature music from Step Rideau and The Zydeco Outlaws, The Grooves, and Grupo Kache.
 
When: Saturday, September 28, 2024 | 6 pm
How Much: $10

Heartspace: A Wellness Festival

Heart Space is a mini festival that celebrates holistic living and community through movement, art, music, and education. Here, you’ll have four distinct spaces to explore where you can enjoy movement classes, arts and crafts, talks on essential oils and the philosophy of yoga, and a chill-out lounge with live DJs.
 
When: Saturday, September 28, 2024 | 6 pm – 8 pm
How Much: $20

Things to Do in Houston This Weekend – Sunday

Bellaire Open Air Fall Market

Enjoy shopping from local artisans and small businesses this weekend at the Bellaire Open Air Fall Market.
 
When: Sunday, September 29, 2024 | 12 pm – 4 pm
How Much: Free

 
Julep is ending its month-long celebration dedicated to the iconic American spirit bourbon with 45 exceptional spirit tastings, interactive cocktail demonstrations, opportunities to connect with Brown Water Experts and live acoustic music.
 
When: Sunday, September 29, 2024 | 4 pm – 7 pm
How Much: $35
 

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

September 27, 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 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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