Wednesday, November 2, 2011

EVENTS - NOVEMBER 2011

Sunday, November 2
Miller Outdoor Theatre: Barrage

Six violins, a guitar, a bass, and a set of drums all played by some Canadians; really, what else could you ask for? See Barrage, the “high octane fiddle fest,” for free today at Miller Outdoor Theatre.

Tuesday, November 4
Notsuoh: The Terrordactyls, Buxton, The Wild Moccasins
It’s always good to support to local music, and that is made immensely easier when said local musicians are not awful. (It’s also helpful if you’ve only got to fork over $3 to lend that support, as is the case here.)
314 Main St.
713-237-8220
Wednesday, November 5
Domy Books: No End In Sight (film showing)
Billed as “The American Occupation of Iraq - The Inside Story From the Ultimate Insiders,” you can safely assume that this documentary is not of a pro-war stance.
Domy Books
713-523-3669
Thursday, November 6
Walter’s on Washington: Punk Rock Concert
Legendary hardcore punkrockers Cro-Mags headline a cast of musical anti-establishment acts that include Iron Age, Your Mistake, Roots of Exile and On My Side. $12 gets you into the club, whereas a stern look towards the guy in the Misfits jacket gets you into a fistfight.
Friday, November 7
Brazos Bookstore: Gulf Coast Reading Series – Samuel Amadon, Lauren Berry, Dane Wisher
There’s really no better way to verify your credibility with the hipster art crowd than to tell them that you’re going to a poet’s reading. Well, I suppose you could you could tell them you drive a Smart Car and think Stephen Malkmus is totally overrated, but a poet’s reading is pretty high on list to be sure.
Brazos Bookstore
713-523-0701
Saturday, November 8
Edwards Marq*E: Doctor Atomic (streaming live video version of the opera)
Feel like your day isn’t quite stressful enough? Then sit in on a live filming of Doctor Atomic, John Adams’s thoroughly intense operatic chronicling of Robert Oppenheimer, the “father of the atomic bomb.”
7620 Katy Freeway
713-263-0808
Sunday, November 9
Main Street Theatre: …and L.A. is Burning (play)
If you’re of similar mind to playwright Y. York, then you thought the LA riots of the early nineties were an absolute comic gem. (Didn’t we all?) $20-35 gets you a ticket to see this occasionally satiric interpretation of the underlying components of the riots.
Main Street Theatre
713-524-9196
Monday, November 10
Houston Museum of Natural Science: Body Worlds 2 & The Brain: Our Three Pound Gem exhibit
If you like your cadaver a little less Republican (that was a John McCain joke, sirs and ma’ams) and a lot less skinned, Dr. Gunther von Hagen’s thought provoking and controversial Body Worlds 2 really is a must. Essentially, Dr. GvH has “plasticized” more than 200 human specimens, removing their skins and exposing the “machine which winds the springs” for the world’s gawking eyes. Do not underestimate the creepiness of this exhibit. Price is $17-25 dollars.
Tuesday, November 11
Etro Lounge: DJ Fredster
Retro haven Etro Lounge has quickly established itself one of the go-to places for scenesters looking to reminisce about The Ramones or the awkward attractiveness of Molly Ringwald or whatever else nonsense was spawned in the '80s. Tuesday nights DJ Fredster offers up his classic audio mash-ups for all to enjoy. Begins after 7 p.m.
Etro Lounge
713-529-3449
Wednesday, November 12
Wade Wilson Art: Vision Eclipsed
If you were thinking to yourself, “Man, I really want to check out some paintings today, but I’m totally bored with the whole painting on canvas scene,” then boy are you in luck. Painter Lucinda Cobley’s is offering a free showing of her work, which is painted on glass mind you, dubbed “Vision Eclipsed.”
Wade Wilson Art
713-521-2977
Thursday, November 13
The Mink: Speakerboxx (DJs performing)
You’d assume that anyone clever enough to come up with the DJ name Squincy Jones would be at least equally as adept at mixing.. Even if he’s not, though, the show is free. Starts at 10 p.m.
The Mink
713-522-9985
Friday, November 14
Burke Baker Planetarium: Black Holes
Turns out, a star’s life cycle is almost a perfect parallel of Britney Spears’ career: It’s born, expands larger and larger throughout its life, then, if it’s lucky, collapses on itself to form a black hole. $6 for adults to see this movie, $5 for tiny versions of adults.
Saturday, November 15
Toyota Center: New Orleans Hornets vs. Houston Rockets
Catch the new look Rockets as they take on Chris Paul and the Hornets. Remember, Ron Artest, of Brawl at the Palace of Auburn Hills fame, is with the Rockets now, so there’s a slight, slight chance that you may be punched in the face by a professional athlete at the game. Good luck.
Houston Rockets
713-627-3865
Sunday, November 16
Reliant Park: Disney on Ice – Disneyland Adventure
I don’t know about you, but sometimes I get an aching in my bones to buy my kids a $19* coke. Fortunately, Disney on Ice is in town and they allow me to do just that. It also lets me see androgynous cartoon characters fiddle around on ice skates, which is another hobby of mine.
Monday, November 17
Alley Theatre: Secret Order (play)
Chris Rock, the end-all source when it comes to medical research, semi-joked that there was no money in the cure and that’s why a cure for cancer (and other incurable diseases) has not yet been “found.” This play, apparently, is based on that premise, as a young scientist learns that his possible cure for cancer is received by the medicine world less than amicably.
Alley Theatre
713-228-8421
Tuesday, November 18
Toyota Center: Coldplay in Concert
For my money, the quartet of British rockers have continued an onward spiral towards sheer arrogance and pomp ever since the release of Parachutes, but Chris Martin is still a lackadaisical beast at his live shows. It’d be nice if they hit up a smaller venue, but this should be a good show nonetheless.
Toyota Center
1-866-4468-849
Wednesday, November 19
Museum of Fine Arts: Korean Art and Culture Initiative
Straight from the bill: “The long-term agreement between the MFAH and the National Museum of Korea includes the loan of Korean National Treasures and serves as the foundation of the Korean Art and Culture Initiative, at the heart of which is the establishment of a larger, permanent MFAH gallery for Korean art of the highest aesthetic and cultural significance.” The gallery, luckily, is much more interesting than its description.
Museum of Fine Arts
713-639-7300
Thursday, November 20
3511 Yoakum: Greek Festival
Postponed this year until now because of Ike (normally held in October), this yearly event is tiny in comparative festival size, but enjoyable regardless. Resist the urge to make any kind of reheated Big Fat Greek Wedding or 300 related jokes.
Greek Festival
713-526-5377
Friday, Novmeber 21
Reliant Park: Cycle World International Motorcycle Show
What better way to spend a Friday evening than looking at motorcycles that you know your wife will never let you buy. Oh the joys of marriage.
Saturday, November 22
Plantersville: Renaissance Festival
Featuring 50 acres of guys using phrases like “Ye” and “Wench,” jousting competitions, and magic shows, the Renaissance Festival is a must do. If nothing else, it’s a verifiable certainty that you’ll meet someone as least twice as dorky as you are. That’s always a plus.
Renaissance Festival
1-800-458-3435
Sunday, November 23
Sam Houston Park: Street Painting Festival (Bagby & Allen Parkway)
The 3rd annual Street Painting Festival – yeah, it’s exactly what it sounds like- will feature over 175 artists coloring up the sidewalks. Food, beverages, entertainment, and activities for the kiddoes will also be available. Proceeds benefit the Center for Hearing and Speech.
Houston Via Colori
713-523-3633
Monday, November 24
Alley Theatre: A Christmas Carol (play)
Thanksgiving gets a bum wrap, as is evidenced here by the pre-Christmas launch of A Christmas Carol. What Thanksgiving needs is some type of mascot that people can tie it to so as to make it more memorable. And not something lame like a turkey or whatever. Might we suggest an older fellow, perhaps jolly in nature, and with a magical ability to fly around the world in a single night and deliver presents to all sleeping children?
Alley Theatre
713-228-8421
Tuesday, November 25
Menil Collection: Art and Power in the Central African Savanna
An art exhibit from four African cultures that illustrates the influence of “stylistic changes in power figures,” this place’s probably not the best place to take a kid. That is, unless your kid happens to have a rooted interest the political, social, and cultural changes of Africa during the nineteenth century. (Don’t they all?)
Menil
713-529-3400
Wednesday, November 26
Wortham Center: Tree Lighting Ceremony
The Sugar Plum Fairy herself will stop by to light-up the 8,000 lights on the Wortham Center’s 25-foot Christmas tree. Also scheduled to make an appearance: the fuzzy mice and toy soldiers from The Nutcracker.
501 Texas
713-237-1439
Thursday, November 27
Your House: Thanksgiving Dinner
As much as you dislike them, sit down with your family for this one day and gorge yourself on overcooked turkey and undercooked mashed potatoes.
Possible Alternate
Downtown: HEB Thanksgiving Parade
Nearly a 60-year-old tradition, you can expect a few celebrities, sports stars, huge floats, and a whole host of marching band members just glad they aren't at home with their families eating overcooked turkey and undercooked mashed potatoes.
HEB Parade
713-654-8808
Friday, November 28
McGonigel’s Mucky Duck: Band of Heathens (concert)
As part of their four-month long tour, Austin's Americana rockers Band of Heathens make a welcome stop at one of Houston’s finest smaller-sized live music venues. This is good ol’ grown-folks feel-good music right here. Very organic, very heartfelt.
Saturday, November 29
Hofheinz Pavillion: Houston Cougars vs. North Texas
Any opportunity you can get to see some people from Houston beat up on some people from Dallas (or, from near Dallas, anyway) is a must. It’s not that I condone violence, but, c’mon, it’s Dallas.
Sunday, November 30
Discovery Green: Outdoor Ice Skating
Ice skating inside is fine for May, but come winter time, it’s an activity that should be done outside. Plus, Discovery Green’s ice rink will have a designated area for toddlers, performances by skate pros, a skating with Santa event, and film and DJ nights. In your face, Galleria Mall Ice Skating Rink.
Discovery Green
713-400-7336


Posted by at No comments:
Labels:
Location: Houston, TX, USA

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

ATTRACTIONS - 2011


Downtown Aquarium

410 Bagby Street, Houston, TX 77002; Tel. 713.223.FISH
Sea creatures of every shape and size are on view at the Downtown Aquarium. The Sunken Temple exhibit reveals the wonders of ancient Mayan culture and the underwater world, while a journey on the Shark Voyage gives you an intimate view of the ocean's most infamous predators. A great place for family fun, the aquarium also features outdoor attractions such as the 100-foot Diving Bell Ferris Wheel and the Dancing Fountains. Drink and dine at the Aquarium Restaurant or the Dive Lounge. And while there, make sure to check out the new white tigers exhibit.

Houston Zoo

1513 N. MacGregor, Houston, Texas 77030; Tel. 713.533.6500
Just minutes away from downtown, the Houston Zoo is tucked inside Hermann Park, home to a wealth of family friendly destinations. The zoo covers an expanse of 55 acres and is home to thousands of animals that represent more than 500 species, from winged creatures that fly free in the Tropical Bird House, to the slithering reptiles that constitute one of the nation's largest collections of venomous snakes. A zoo favorite is Blanco, an American Alligator whose white coloring makes him an extremely rare breed (there are only 14 others known to exist). If you need a chance to cool off from the humidity, take a spin on the newly added Wildlife Carousel, a covered ride that features a distinctive variety of animal-shaped figures, including native Texan icons like the armadillo. In keeping with their nationally recognized commitment to wildlife preservation, the Houston Zoo uses part of the nominal fee collected at this attraction to fund ongoing conservation projects.

Lynchburg Ferry

1001 South Lynchburg Road, Baytown, TX 77520; Tel. 281.424.3521
This historic ferry service played a vital role in Texas' fight for independence in 1836. Today, the Lynchburg Ferry provides transport for the Baytown area at no charge. Although short, (approximately 7-10 minutes depending on current and weather conditions) the ride is enjoyable and the scenery is beautiful, making the 10-mile drive from the city to the ferry dock well worth it. Once you've crossed the San Jacinto River, head over to the Baytown Nature Center or Houston Raceway Park, and spend the afternoon away from the bustle of the city. The ferry runs 7 days a week, but it's best to call ahead for the schedule.

Market Square Historic District

Bounded by Travis, Milam, Congress and Preston streets, Market Square has remained a geographic centerpiece of downtown Houston since the arrival of the Allen Brothers (the city's “founders”) more than 150 years ago. The streets are lined with fine examples of 19th Century architecture and a slew of entertainment venues, nightclubs and dining establishments that suit a variety of tastes. Nearly as old as the locale itself, La Carafe (813 Congress Street) offers a low-key, intimate setting and has an extensive wine list. If you're looking for a more raucous way to spend the evening, try Spy (112 Travis Street), a dance club catering to the 20- to 30-something crowd that features a variety of music and plenty of singles to flirt with. Market Square Park gives visitors the opportunity to get away from the noise and take a relaxing evening stroll.

Memorial Park

6501 Memorial, Houston, TX 77098
This popular spot is a must for locals who enjoy the outdoors. Spread over more than 1400 acres, Memorial Park offers a variety of activities and excursions including six miles of recreational trails along the bayou (perfect for biking or jogging) and the behemoth Memorial Park Golf Course. It's no secret that this is also a great place to see and be seen — particularly on the trails, where many can be found strutting, stretching and showing off their stuff. For those less interested in the spectacle, the park also offers tennis courts equipped for night play, a driving range and plenty of grassy plots to picnic or relax. The park has one restaurant that offers good food at affordable prices, as well as a juice shop stocked with power bars and nutritional drinks.

Menil Collection

1515 Sul Ross, Houston, Texas 77006; Tel. 713.525.9400
Shortly after their arrival to the United States in 1941, Dominique and John de Menil began to amass what would soon become one of the nation's most important collections of art. Decades later, the de Menils began to forge plans to create a permanent home for the collection, though the project came to a halt after John's death in 1973. Commissioning Italian architect Renzo Piano to design a space for the holdings, Dominique forged ahead with plans and the Menil Collection opened its doors to the public in 1987. The more than 15,000 works, as a whole, embody a uniquely eclectic selection of artwork that exemplify the de Menils' dedication to and interest in modernism, as well as their refusal to conform to traditional norms throughout their assemblage of this fine arts collection. Four major areas are represented: Antiquity, Byzantine and Medieval, Tribal and 20th Century Arts. Most notable in the Menil Collection are the holdings in surrealist art –- the most comprehensive collection in the museum –- that includes works by Salvador Dali, Man Ray and Pablo Picasso, amongst others.

Museum of Fine Arts, Houston

1001 Bissonnet Street, Houston, TX 77005; Tel. 713.639.7300 or 713.639.7310
With a collection of more than 45,000 works housed in a family of buildings that boast 300,000 square feet of space, the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, is the fifth largest museum in the country. Holdings include works that span from ancient to modern times and represent a vast array of mediums. Collections in French Impressionism, Italian Renaissance, decorative arts, and post-1945 paintings and sculpture are amongst its most significant holdings, and the Reinzi and Bayou Bend Collections (each on display in homes just a short distance from the museum's main campus) offer distinctive examples of decorative arts from the American and British traditions, respectively. The Modern and Contemporary exhibit includes an extensive collection of Texas art and is also home to key works by Abstract Expressionist artists. Most notable, the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, is the second largest repository of works by Jackson Pollock.

National Museum of Funeral History

415 Barren Springs Drive, Houston, TX 77090; Tel. 281.876.3063
It goes without saying that this destination is one of a kind. Opened in 1992, the National Museum of Funeral History has dedicated itself to the history and heritage of the undertaker. Sure, it's a little creepy, but that only complements the experience of discovering the some of the secrets of this relatively esoteric industry. Where else could you find an exhibit dedicated to Dr. Thomas Holmes, Civil War embalmer or a collection of vehicles specially designed to deliver the departed to their final resting place? The Museum of Funeral History's collection of artifacts, instruments and the like includes items from all over the world, and installations like the 1900s Casket Factory provide a historical perspective of the funeral industry. Not to be missed at the Museum of Funeral History is the collection of “fantasy coffins” from Ghana that depict the personality, social status or occupation of the deceased. The assemblage includes caskets in the shape of a chicken, fish and automobile, amongst others.

Space Center Houston

1601 NASA Road 1, Houston, TX 77058; Tel. 281.244.2100
Space Center Houston is about as close as you can get to the moon without actually going there. Through a combination of live presentations, film and a large collection of artifacts, visitors to the Houston Space Center learn everything there is to know about the history of human space travel. Exhibits like the Living in Space simulate the challenges presented to astronauts when they attempt to perform everyday tasks like bathing in microgravity, while the tram tour takes visitors behind closed doors to catch a glimpse of the action at the nearby NASA Johnson Space Center. Also on view at the Houston space facility are large collections of artifacts and equipment including spacesuits, flight capsules and moon rocks. True space enthusiasts may enjoy Space Center Houston's Level 9 Tour where they are personally escorted on a exploration of NASA's control and training facilities such as the Space Environment Simulation Lab and the new Mission Control Center.

The Galleria

5085 Westheimer Rd., Suite 4850, Houston, TX 77056; Tel. 713.622.0663
The designers of this retail behemoth took to heart the notion that everything's bigger in Texas. One of the largest shopping malls in the nation, The Houston Galleria is more like a miniature city than a place to shop for just the right get-up for a night on the town. The mall houses an indoor skating rink, two hotels and 2.4 million square feet of shops, in addition to office buildings, theaters and restaurants. If you're on a retail mission, chances are you'll find it here. The 375 stores include high-end clothing and accessory stores like Lord & Taylor, Gucci and Armani, as well as more budget-friendly splurge spots like Abercrombie and Eddie Bauer. Also on hand are shops featuring electronics, home furnishings, books and music, toys and much more. If you're not up for a buying binge, The Galleria also houses a selection of sit-down restaurants, as well as cushy leather seating inside the mall on which visitors can perch and people-watch.

The Health Museum

1515 Hermann Drive, Houston, TX 77004
Providing the ultimate journey—inside you—it lets guests explore giant sculptures of human organs, including a brain, ribs and even teeth, at the Amazing Body Pavilion. That's just one of the exhibits and hands-on activities at the museum, which has many programs in Spanish and ranks as one of the most visited health museums in the country. New permanent exhibits include: Mindball—a new relaxation game for two where the player that maintains the most calm and relaxed state wins by pushing the Mindball toward their opponent; the Amazing Imaging Machine gives users a look inside the body at X-Rays, Gamma Rays or MRI; and the Adjustable Eye, a giant model of en eyeball that allows visitors to see how their eye lens operates and how the eye focuses. Free family Thursday hours are 2-5 p.m.

The Houston Museum of Natural Science

One Hermann Circle Drive, Houston, TX 77030; Tel. 713.639.4629
Giant dinosaurs, precious gems and ancient Egyptian artifacts are all on display at The Houston Museum of Natural Science, one of Houston's most popular attractions for locals and tourists alike. Exhibition halls dedicated to the natural sciences include video, interactive and traditional installations that inform and educate museum goers about the wild beasts of the African continent, the ancient traditions of Egypt and the diverse cultures of Native American tribes. The Strake Hall of Malacology gives a rare glance into the living of invertebrates and includes a sizeable collection of shells, as well as live creatures. Another highlight is Foucault's Pendulum –- first exhibited at the World's Fair in Paris –- that physically demonstrates the rotation of the Earth. Some of the finest gems stones in the world can be found in the Museum of Natural Science's Cullen Hall, where more than 750 precious specimens are housed.

The Orange Show Monument

2401 Munger Street, Houston, Texas 77023; Tel. 713.926.6368
Described as a “folk-art environment,” The Orange Show Monument's whimsical design is difficult to classify. But if carnival showboats made out of found objects like wooden wheels and tractor seats ever existed, this would be a meticulously crafted rendition. Judging from the outside, it comes as no surprise that while exploring this outdoor oddity visitors encounter things like a beardless Santa Claus figure, mannequins and handmade signs with fruit-friendly aphorisms such as, “Clown found happiness by drinking cold fresh orange juice every day.” It took more than twenty years for the late Jefferson Davis McKissack to construct this homage to the orange, his favorite fruit, and the end result is a unique, albeit bizarre architectural novelty that consists of a series of mazes, a wishing well and frog pond amongst other features, making it clear why The Orange Show Monument remains one of the most important examples of American folk art to date.
Posted by at No comments:
Labels:
Location: Houston, TX, USA

LAND MARKS - 2011


Top Landmarks in Houston

Post image for Top Landmarks in Houston
Houston is the largest city in the United States and the fourth largest in the United States with a population of more than 2 million. The city was founded back in 1836 and incorporated less than a year later. At the time Texas was not a part o f the United States and was governed by the Republic of Texas of which Sam Houston was President. Houston has such a long history it’s not surprising that there a large number of landmarks that are important both to tourists and locals. Learn more about this fascinating city and what makes it so interesting by visiting Houston’s top landmarks.
The San Jacinto Monument in Houston is the world’s talent memorial column, was built to honor all of those who fought for Texas’s independence. The Battle of San Jacinto was a turning point and the ground on which it occurred became revered by those who believed in the independence of Texas. By the 100 year anniversary the ground and public sentiment was right and the monument was built, the San Jacinto Museum of History soon followed and is one of the highlights of any tour of Houston’s landmarks.
The Battleship Texas was the first battleship memorial museum in the United States in 1948. It now is anchored at Buffalo Bayou and a part of the San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site. The Texas is the last battleship made in the HMS Dreadnought style and served in WWI and WWII. In 1916 the Texas became the first U.S. battleship with mounted antiaircraft guns and the first to use range keepers to control gunfire and in 1919 it became the first to launch an aircraft. The ship underwent many renovations throughout the years before it was decommissioned in 1948.
The Holocaust Museum in Houston was the brain child of Siegi Izakson, a holocaust survivor. While meeting with other holocaust survivors in 1981 he realized that they were getting older and that as they died their stories would eventually disappear and fade from memory as well. He saw that the lessening of influence from actual survivors could let prejudice once again rear its head and he decided to do something about that. The Houston Council of Jewish Holocaust Survivors joined with Izakson to create the museum with its permanent and temporary exhibits that demonstrate and tell of the atrocities of the holocaust through the eyes of those who were there.
The Williams Water Wall is a multistory fountain near the Transco Tower. It was built to draw attention to the tower and to provide a bit of visual interest. Designed by Philip Johnson and John Burgee with help from Gerald Hines the Transco Tower complex and the water wall were begun in 1982 and completed and fully operational by 1985. The wall was designed to be a horseshoe of rushing water, a semicircle that reaches 64 feet high and sits among 118 live oak trees. The wall often serves as a backdrop for events, picnics and concerts.
The Houston Museum of Natural Science was established back in 1909 with the goal of providing a free institution for people interested in education and science. This museum is one of the most popular in the United States with more than two million visitors annually. The permanent exhibits include: Paleontology, Gems & Minerals, Smith Gem Vault, Energy, Texas Wildlife, Malacology, African Wildlife, The Americas, Chemistry, Earth Forum, Space Science, The Pendulum, and Egypt. As if that isn’t enough the museum has a very active temporary exhibit policy and traveling and special exhibits are always a big draw. If this landmark museum has you enthralled you may want to spend a little more time in Houston’s museum district as there are 18 different museums in just this one area.
NASA_JSC-7-StuSeeger16Creative Commons License Photo credit: StuSeeger
NASA_JSC-7-StuSeeger16
The Space Center Houston takes its guests on a tour of the moon with a combination of live presentations, films and artifacts from actual moon missions. Hands on exhibits like Living in Space let you explore what day to day life was like for those who spent time in the shuttles. The tram tour at Space Center Houston is one not to be missed as you get a behind the scenes look at NASA’s Johnson Space Center while people actually work on current space missions. The Level 9 Tour is a guided tour through NASA’s control and training facilities  which will give you the most in depth look at NASA, this tour takes four hours and is open to only 12 people aged 14 or above each day so reserve your tickets in advance.
There are a number of oddities in Houston that are considered landmarks and The Orange Show is one of them. The Orange Show is a testament to folk art and the dedication of one artist. From 1956 to 1979 Jefferson Davis McKissack worked on this 3,000 square foot artwork in his spare time. The space includes an oasis, wishing well, pond, stage, museum, gift shop and upper decks. It’s made of a variety of materials including concrete, brick, steel, gears, tiles, wagon wheels, mannequins, tractor seats and a number of other found items.
The Beer Can House is another one of those oddities that is considered a Houston landmark. John Milkovisch started his beer can house in 1968 but at the time he was just laying marbles, rocks and little metal pieces into concrete and redwood to replace his lawn. But by the time he finished he realized he was far from done and turned his attention to the house. His unique brand of aluminum siding was applied and then masked by the strings of beer can garland that drape from the roof line and it’s estimated that there are about 50,000 cans on the house. It’s been said that John drank all of the beer himself, but this is a myth as his wife and neighbors had a hand in the material collection as well.
Creative Commons License Photo credit: diveofficer

Posted by at No comments:
Labels:
Location: Houston, TX, USA

EVENTS - OCTOBER 2011


Children's Museum of Houston
Calling all Moms! You’re invited to the Mommy Mingle at the Children's Museum of Houston (CMH). Now that the big kids are back in school, enjoy free coffee and breakfast on us and meet other mommies. Bring your little ones to Tot*Spot for awesome playtime and check out special take-home activities. Daddies, nannies and caretakers are welcome too!
Caraccio - Master of Expressionism
October 12, 2011
If you are looking for a special, romantic, five star evening make plans to head to La Colombe d'Or. Steve Zimmerman and La Colombe d'Or invite you to the opening of the exhibition CARACCIO - Master of Expressionism, in collaboration with John Murphy-ANGELICO LLC.
Discovery Green Thursday Concert Series
October 13, 2011
Discovery Green
Rock out at Discovery Green's free, family-friendly concerts showcasing the best music of Texas and the Gulf coast. Thursdays in September and October.
Smoking Hot Fire Safety
October 13, 2011
Children's Museum of Houston
The Children’s Museum of Houston (CMH) is smokin’ hot for Fire Safety! Come and hang out with real Houston Fire Department (HFD) firefighters and see what it’s like to be a real life hero. Learn how to prevent fires at home, what to do in case of a fire, how wildfires begin and explore the dangers of playing with fire.
Pianist Richard Dowling performs all-Chopin concert
October 13, 2011
Wrap your Thursday on a high tune with this exceptional concert! Richard Dowling performs a solo piano recital of works by the great composer Frederic Chopin.
Complexions Contemporary Ballet
October 14, 2011
Society for the Performing Arts
Complexions contemporary ballet brings diverse works of performance art to Houston.
Silent Film Concerts: Chaplin Shorts
October 14, 2011
Discovery Green
Get out of the routine, and do something free, fun and different! Enjoy the art of a silent film concert!
Michael Franks with Ethan Bortnick
October 14, 2011
Miller Outdoor Theatre
Experience the consummate master of mellow jazz and "statesman of songcraft" in his Miller debut. Multi-talented piano prodigy 10 year old Ethan Bortnick opens.
Run to Cure Huntington's Disease- 5k Run and Walk
Grab your running shoes and head to this fun 5K run benefiting the Huntington's Disease Society of America. Don't miss the chance to win the Shirley Whitley Memorial grand prize of expense paid trips to the Carlsbad Marathon in sunny San Diego, CA. in January, 2012!
Dark Star Orchestra- Continuing the Grateful Dead Experience
October 15, 2011
House of Blues
Dark Star Orchestra- Continuing the Grateful Dead Experience will be at the House of Blues.
Houston Music Festival 2011
October 15, 2011
Reliant Park
The Houston Music Festival 2011 is coming to Reliant Arena, featuring Charlie Wilson, Kem, and many more!
Buffalo Bayou Kayak Tours
October 15, 2011
Buffalo Bayou
Celebrate Houston in a whole new way and join the Buffalo Bayou Partnership for a kayak adventure through Houston's stunning urban wilderness at Buffalo Bayou.
The Foundation of Happiness
October 15, 2011
Rothko Chapel, The
Michael Ciborski will share his insights into happiness based on his many years of training in mindfulness practice and striving to bring understanding, compassion, and healing into the world. He and his wife are the founders of MorningSun, a spiritual community centered on the practice of mindfulness, the moment to moment awareness of all that encompasses one’s body and the world around it.
Heart and Sole 5K Run and Walk
October 15, 2011
Grab your tennis shoes for the Heart and Sole 5K Run and Walk! This event will benefit the Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels.
Discovery Green Flea
October 15, 2011
Discovery Green
Discovery Green Flea is where everything old is new again! Treasure-hunt at this monthly, one-of-a-kind market; recycled, renewed, refreshed objects, plus food and local band showcase on Transier Bandstand and monthly scavenger hunt.
Arbor Fun Walk
October 15, 2011
Grab your walking shoes and the whole family for Arbor Fun Walk; a family-centric, fun-filled event while also generating awareness for children with special needs. After the walk, enjoy a number of activities in a carnival setting that are sure to please all ages, from a cake walk to a bounce house, there will be plenty of fun to go around!
New BOX 13 ArtSpace Exhibition
October 15, 2011
Check out four new exhibitions at BOX 13 ArtSpace. You'll enjoy Houston's innovative, contemporary art for free!
Sugar Land - Farmers Market At Imperial
October 15, 2011
Enjoy the freshest-tasting produce, crafts and interesting artistic finds at the Farmers Market at Imperial Sugar Land.
Fall & Fun 2011- Imagine Kids Party
A free, fall, fun kids party is here! There will be six hours of stage shows featuring various celebrities and performances such as the Houston Dynamos, Magic, Houston Academy of Dance and much more. Children will enjoy various activities such as face painting, make up experience, balloon twisting and casting for the new cover face of Imagine Kids Magazine.
2011 Callaloo Conference
October 15, 2011
Menil Collection, The
Callaloo is the premiere literary and cultural journal of the African Diaspora. The Menil is hosting this conference on the topic featuring a keynote address by Robert Farris Thompson of Yale University with moderator Shona Jackson of Texas A&M University.
Dia de la Hispanidad featuring Associació Cultural l'Aljama de Betera
October 15, 2011
Miller Outdoor Theatre
Celebrate El Dia de la Hispanidad at Miller Outdoor Theatre with a program highlighting the rich cultural heritage of the Hispanic world.
Tommy Bahama Culinary Event
October 15, 2011
Join Tommy Bahama for an in-store cooking demonstration at The Woodlands and learn how to prepare favorites from the Tommy Bahama cookbook, Life is One Long Weekend.
Popcorn Kids Puppet 3D Teen Film Workshop with Animator Jeanne Stern
October 15, 2011
Aurora Picture Show
Cameras, set, action! In this half-day workshop, teen students (ages 12-17) will learn about the basics of stereoscopic (3D) image making.
Middle Eastern Culinary Tour with Chefs Monica Pope, Jonathan Jones and Hugo Ortega
October 16, 2011
Houston Culinary Tours
Pita, hummus and baba ghanoush, oh my! Find out where to find the most authentic Middle Eastern cuisine in the city with the help of chef Monica Pope (of t’afia and Bravo TV’s Top Chef Masters fame), Beaver’s executive chef Jonathan Jones and chef-restaurateur Hugo Ortega (of Montrose’s Mexican mainstay Hugo’s).
Running of the Bulls
October 16, 2011
Cross the bull tunnel at the home of the Houston Texans! Run to sign up for Houston Texans Running of the Bulls 5K Run/Walk and TORO’s Kids 1K.
Kidney Action Day featuring the Steps That Count walkathon
October 16, 2011
There will be interactive games for kids and exercise tips and routines that will get you motivated. Bring inspiration to your kitchen from the cooking demonstrations and samplings. For more information, visit www.kidneyfund.org.
Kidney Action Day featuring the Steps that Count walkathon
October 16, 2011
Discovery Green
Kick off the fall season with a healthy lifestyle! Join the fight against kidney disease at the American Kidney Fund’s Kidney Action Day featuring the Steps that Count walkathon. This fun-filled day will include free kidney health screenings, giveaways, cooking demos, and healthy food samplings. 
Houston Brass Band Plays Missouri City
October 16, 2011
The Houston Brass Band, a traditional British brass band will be delighting the audience with a free musical performance. Directed by Houston Symphony trumpeter Robert Walp, the Houston Brass Band's unique blend brings an exciting sound to a wide range of selections, from Elizabethan music to marches, film scores, modern compositions, as well as the classics. 
Illusionary Worlds: A Video Salon With Animator Jeanne Stern

Aurora Picture Show
Aurora Picture Show hosts a free educational video salon with a visiting Austin-based animator Jeanne Stern. Jeanne creates bizarre cinematic worlds using a hybrid of animation and puppetry. She will discuss creating space through stereoscopy and other illusions, as well as the effect of leaving openings in work for viewer participation.
After-school Health Expo: Health Fair and Symposium!
October 18, 2011
The After-school Health Expo: Health Fair and Symposium is featuring a discussion about healthy dietary habits, a mini health fair with free health screenings and access to health information and health activities.
Blues and Burgers featuring The Snake Charmers
October 19, 2011
Discovery Green
Bite into a juicy burger with a side of Houston's best in blues at these lunchtime concerts.
Mommy Mingle
October 19, 2011
Children's Museum of Houston
Calling all Moms! You’re invited to the Mommy Mingle at the Children's Museum of Houston (CMH). Now that the big kids are back in school, enjoy free coffee and breakfast on us and meet other mommies. Bring your little ones to Tot*Spot for awesome playtime and check out special take-home activities. Daddies, nannies and caretakers are welcome too!
Scare in the Air
October 19, 2011
Fear fans and those looking to get into the Halloween spirit will be entertained by horror flicks, palm readers, roaming costumed characters, fun-filled frights, music, food, and more at Scare in the Air at ScreamWorld.
Spacetaker Artist SPEAKeasy with Monica Vidal and Mark Masterson
October 19, 2011
Artists Monica Vidal and Mark Masterson will lead a creative presentation about their work in an informal atmosphere followed by a question and answer session where the audience can glean further insight into the artists, the artists' aesthetic and creative process at this month's Spacetaker Artist SPEAKeasy.
40 Years of Human Development with Amartya Sen
October 20, 2011
Rothko Chapel, The
Nobel Laureate Amartya Sen will present the Rothko Chapel 40th Anniversary lecture, furthering examination and discussion of topics guest speakers have explored since the Chapel’s inception 40 years ago. In his lecture, Sen will focus on the evolution of the framework of human development and the challenges ahead for creating a more equitable and sustainable world.
Wonderful Native Birds of Texas lecture
October 20, 2011
Heritage Society, The
Take an hour off and enjoy learning about Texas birds while grabbing a bite to eat at the Hill/Finger lecture series.
Zest in the West Grand Zesting
October 20, 2011
Enjoy a Grand Tasting evening featuring over 150 fine wines and culinary fare from West Houston's best all sampled at the stylish, global leader in hospitality, the Hilton Houston Westchase to the backdrop of musical entertainment. Sip and Savour something new!
Gaelic Storm
October 21, 2011
House of Blues
Gaelic Storm in the Bronze Peacock at the House of Blues.
Sweet Adelines International Free Performance

Toyota Center
Enjoy an out of this world performance featuring the best of women's barbershop harmony. Thousands of singers will assemble at the Toyota Center Plaza for a free spectacular Mass Singing performance.
Caesar Salad Competition
October 21, 2011
Four Seasons Hotel Houston
Hail, Caesar - join Houston's top chefs as they compete in the 27th annual Caesar Salad Competition! While there enjoy the tasty food and wine.
The Houston Sound Fall Concert Series featuring John Evans Band
October 21, 2011
Market Square Park
Get out the door and enjoy the beautiful weather with great music at the Houston Sound Fall Concert Series at Market Square Park!
Break Thru
October 21, 2011
The Break Thru audience will experience the power in music spanning from original songs, to R&B to classical (Sam Cooke to Chopin) and beyond!
Texian Market Days Festival
October 22, 2011
George Ranch Historical Park
Experience the sights, smells and activities of days gone by at the 28th annual Texian Market Days festival.
Jeans and Jewels
October 22, 2011
Dust off your boots and enjoy a fun filled evening while contributing to a great cause! Jeans & Jewels is a Texas Size party with entertainment, games, auctions, dancing, food and all kinds of boot scootin' activities.
Annual Puerto Rican & Cuban Festival
October 22, 2011
Dance to the rhythms of the Caribbean and enjoy PuertoRican and Cuban exquisite food at the Annual Puerto Rican and Cuban Festival! This one day event will be filled with live music, art, children's activities, vendors, food and more to guarantee you and the whole family will have a blast!
Run For Your Life 5k fun run and 1k family walk
October 22, 2011
Are you ready to Run For Your Life? Grab your running shoes and get to The Health Museum for this sanctioned 5K fun run through the Museum District. A 1K family walk is also available for the youngest runners. Don’t know what to wear? Don’t worry, costumes are encouraged for all runners. And, stay after the race for a spook-tacular celebration!
Native Plants and Invasive Species Tour
October 22, 2011
Allen's Landing
Buffalo Bayou Partnership and the Native Plant Society will take you on a tour to see the wild side of Buffalo Bayou. The importance of native plants and the hindrance of invasive species will be discussed. Healthy techniques for your garden will also be highlighted.
ArBOOretum
October 22, 2011
Houston Arboretum & Nature Center
On Saturday the 22nd, head out to the Houston Arboretum for their annual Halloween event.
4th Annual Halloween Classic Car Show

National Museum of Funeral History
Outdoor Classic car show filled with fun for the entire family and all proceeds go to local charities benefiting children.
Monster Dash
October 22, 2011
Get your running shoes ready for this Monster Dash! Racers will have to brave a Zombie Dodge, a Monster Mud Bath, a Horrifying Hay Hurdle, the Creepy Crawl and Boooooot Camp, along with a few other tricky challenges! Post-race activities include a pumpkin patch, arts and crafts, hair spray painting, airbrush tattoos, games and more.
Walk MS: The Woodlands
October 22, 2011
Grab your walking shoes and head out the door! Walk MS: The Woodlands offers one mile and 5K routes will bring funds and awareness for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Participants will enjoy free food and entertainment before and after the event. Dogs are welcome.
Walk MS: Katy
October 22, 2011
Katy Mills
Grab your walking shoes and head out the door!Walk MS: Katy will bring together the community in a one mile walk around Katy Mills mall while providing funding and support to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
New BOX 13 ArtSpace Exhibition
October 22, 2011
Check out four new exhibitions at BOX 13 ArtSpace. You'll enjoy Houston's innovative, contemporary art for free!
Sugar Land - Farmers Market At Imperial
October 22, 2011
Enjoy the freshest-tasting produce, crafts and interesting artistic finds at the Farmers Market at Imperial Sugar Land.
Rhythm '11 - A Night of Bollywood Dance
October 22, 2011
RHYTHM ‘11 will be a night of nonstop Bollywood, fusion, classical, cinematic and folk dance for people of all backgrounds.
Premiere Screening - A Little Revolution
October 22, 2011
Don't miss the premiere screening of "A Little Revolution," this film is from the makers of the award winning film The Widow Colony. A Little Revolution is a story of suicides and dreams, that follows the remarkable journey of filmmaker Harpreet Kaur, who travels from the rural villages for Punjab to the capital of India with children of farmers, who've committed suicide. This is a story of hope, empowerment and simple dreams.
Cook-Off!
October 22, 2011
Have some of Houston's best Chili at this Chili Cook-Off competition!
Houston Dynamo vs. LA Galaxy
October 23, 2011
Houston Dynamo
Houston Dynamo vs. LA Galaxy at Robertson Stadium
Day of the Dead

Traders Village - Houston
A popular Mexican celebration, come together with friends and family at Traders Village to honor the lives of loved ones who have passed.
The Paranormal Experience
October 23, 2011
La Carafe
Experience the theatrical re-creation of a turn of the century séance in person! You are not a mere spectator but an active participant. You will experience contact with the "other side" as you and a small intimate group are led through a Spiritualist Style Séance.
Octoberfest with the Houston Brass Band
October 23, 2011
Celebrate Octoberfest with the Houston Brass Band and the Sängerbund of Houston. The Houston Brass Band will perform a wide variety of music by German composers, from Richard Wagner to traditional songs and polkas.
Goran Bregovic and his Wedding and Funeral Orchestra
October 25, 2011
Society for the Performing Arts
Goran Bregovic brings the best of the Balkans to Houston for one big party. In honor of his U.S. “Champagne Tour,” Bregovic will celebrate the music of Europe’s Gypsy tradition when he brings his 20-piece Wedding and Funeral Orchestra to Houston for the first time. Bregovic’s music marries the dance tunes of a raucous gypsy brass band with traditional Eastern European choral music, all with a rock and roll edge.
Deaf Jam
October 25, 2011
Join HoustonPBS, Rice Cinema and the Documentary Alliance for this free sneak preview screening of the documentary, DEAF JAM, by Judy Lieff.
Brews Cruise with Phoenicia
October 26, 2011
Buffalo Bayou
Take a pontoon boat tour where you will be served international beer and snacks!
Blues and Burgers featuring Sonny Boy Terry Band
October 26, 2011
Discovery Green
Bite into a juicy burger with a side of Houston's best in blues at these lunchtime concerts.
Mommy Mingle
October 26, 2011
Children's Museum of Houston
Calling all Moms! You’re invited to the Mommy Mingle at the Children's Museum of Houston (CMH). Now that the big kids are back in school, enjoy free coffee and breakfast on us and meet other mommies. Bring your little ones to Tot*Spot for awesome playtime and check out special take-home activities. Daddies, nannies and caretakers are welcome too!
Swing, Jive and Pop! Into Dance
October 26, 2011
Miller Outdoor Theatre
Swing, Jive and Pop! Dance of all styles are eras from the 1930's to today explode onto stage in an interactive performance that engages, entertains and enlightens children of all ages.
Taste-ful: Off the Vine
October 27, 2011
Americas River Oaks
A one-of-a kind wine and food adventure Taste-ful: Off the Vine, will incorporate international wine blends, delectable fare and a shopalicious auction – at Américas River Oaks. To bring out your competitive spirit, there will be a Blind Tasting Challenge with a Grand Prize that takes you out of town on a lovely wine holiday. This event will benefit Volunteer Houston’s beloved program, A Visit from St. Nicholas. 
Huey Lewis and the News

Society for the Performing Arts
Feel "The Power of Love" when Huey Lewis and The News come to Houston. American rockers Huey Lewis and The News have been performing their contagious brand of rock and roll for more than 30 years, outlasting countless trends and selling over 20 million albums in the process.
Goldilocks and the Three Little Plays
October 27, 2011
Adults and children will have a blast with this unique performance of Goldilocks, where four brave actors and the audience reconstruct their own final chapter to get Goldilocks back home to Grandma in this timeless story.
Houston Symphony's Hocus Pocus Pops
October 28, 2011
Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, The
Families everywhere have a ghoulish invitation to join us for this “spooktacular” Halloween event featuring tricks, treats and enchanting music. Daddies, mummies and little ghosts and goblins can dress up in their favorite Halloween costumes. An imaginative blend of chilling music and spirited fun will spook you into the season.
Bassnectar
October 28, 2011
Verizon Wireless Theater
Bassnectar will be performing at Verizon Wireless Theater.
Moonstruck Midnight Madness Costume Ball
October 28, 2011
Magnolia Hotel, The
Escape the ordinary and step into a world of your imagination this Halloween with Moonstruck Midnight Madness: A Costume Ball, benefiting Bayou City Performing Arts.
The Houston Sound Fall Concert Series featuring Bonerama
October 28, 2011
Market Square Park
Get out the door and enjoy the beautiful weather with great music at the Houston Sound Fall Concert Series at Market Square Park!
The Adventures of Tom and Huck
October 28, 2011
Express Children's Theatre
Get the kids out of the house and enjoy this free musical adaptation of Mark Twain's novels about the wild adventures of boyhood friends. 
Chi of Shaolin: The Tale of the Dragon
October 28, 2011
Miller Outdoor Theatre
Chi of Shaolin: Tale of the Dragon brings incredible talent to the stage to tell a powerful dramatic tale fused with Shaolin warrior skills, unique acrobatic acts and amazing circus talent.
Annual Pumpkin Fun Run
October 29, 2011
Calling all ghosts and goblins! It’s time for the 16th Annual Texas Heart Institute Great Pumpkin Fun Run! Fun for the entire family, participants can register for the 5K run or walk as well as a 1K children’s walk. Runners and walkers are encouraged to dress in their favorite Halloween costume. A costume contest will be held featuring the first 50 registered children ages infant to 5 years old. Proceeds benefit the Texas Heart Institute at St. Luke's Episcopal Hospital.
Kids Day on Buffalo Bayou
October 29, 2011
Buffalo Bayou
Get the kids out of the house and join Buffalo Bayou Partnership and KBR for a day filled with free family fun, hands-on educational activities, music, food, park performers, and boat rides on the bayou! 
JDRF Walk to Cure Diabetes

Move research from the laboratory bench to the patients' bedside by being part of the JDRF Walk to Cure Diabetes.
The Flying Karamazov Brothers
October 29, 2011
Society for the Performing Arts
The Flying Karamazov Bothers bring their wacky and fun juggling act to Houston. Welcome to the zany world of The Flying Karamazov Brothers, where the daring and goofy take center stage. In this spectacular display of versatility and agility, the four brothers use objects, musical instruments (traditional and invented) and their own bodies to create a performance that is fresh and compelling.
Howl-O-Ween Fest
October 29, 2011
Tails are already wagging as Bridgeland embarks on a Fido favorite event — Howl-O-Ween Fest! Howl-O-Ween Fest promises dog-themed entertainment, family fun, vendors, a farmers' market, gourmet food trucks and more benefitting pet rescue groups.
Scream on the Green
October 29, 2011
Discovery Green
Saturday the 29th Discovery Green is hosting Scream on the Green from 6-10p.m. Enjoy live music, face painting, fortune tellers, and dancing!
Scream on the Green
October 29, 2011
Discovery Green
Houston's fourth annual citywide costume contest and Halloween celebration
New BOX 13 ArtSpace Exhibition
October 29, 2011
Check out four new exhibitions at BOX 13 ArtSpace. You'll enjoy Houston's innovative, contemporary art for free!
Sugar Land - Farmers Market At Imperial
October 29, 2011
Enjoy the freshest-tasting produce, crafts and interesting artistic finds at the Farmers Market at Imperial Sugar Land.
Ghost Tales Under the Stars
October 29, 2011
Bring your folding chairs or picnic blanket to listen to Houston story tellers share ghost stories under the stars!
Grape Stomp Fest
October 29, 2011
Enjoy complimentary wine tastings, live music, face painting, arts & crafts, food, candles, hay rides, and more at the annual Yepez Vineyard Grape Stomp Fest!
Saengerfest Mini Monster Bash
October 29, 2011
Halloween fun will come alive in historic downtown Galveston with the Saengerfest Mini Monster Bash! This family friendly Halloween carnival, offers a costume contest, assorted games with prizes, and trick or treating at various downtown businesses!
Autumn Art Festival

Pack up a picnic blanket and get your whole family out of the house and head to the beautiful historic Stevenson Park for the Friendswood Fine Arts' Autumn Art Festival! The festival will include visual arts and live entertainment.
Lunada 2011
October 29, 2011
Houston Symphony
The Houston Symphony and students from the Houston Independent School District schools perform all time Latin American favorites for the family
Houston Texans vs. Jacksonville Jaguars
October 30, 2011
Houston Texans
Houston Texans vs. Jacksonville Jaguars at Reliant Stadium
Wine Appreciation Class
October 30, 2011
Messina Hof Winery and Resort
Take the opportunity to learn about the wine varietal and wine pairings; as well as taste award-winning Messina Hof wines.
Halloween Boo Bash
October 30, 2011
Traders Village - Houston
On Sunday the 30th, head out to Traders Village for the annual Boo Bash for live musical entertainment, activities and monster sized trick-or-treating.
Ghostly Gardens
October 30, 2011
Moody Gardens - Galveston, TX
Drive out to Moody Garden's Halloween celebration Sunday the 30th from 2-4 p.m. for some free fun!
Gospel on the Green
October 30, 2011
Discovery Green
Noted local ensembles will summon the spirit and soothe the soul, sending you into the work week with a musical blessing to remember. Enjoy a Gospel concert on the Grace Event Lawn. Brunch available for purchase at The Grove.
The Paranormal Experience
October 30, 2011
La Carafe
Experience the theatrical re-creation of a turn of the century séance in person! You are not a mere spectator but an active participant. You will experience contact with the "other side" as you and a small intimate group are led through a Spiritualist Style Séance.
Italian Interlude: A lyrical concert
October 30, 2011
Italian Mezzo-soprano Anna Maria Di Micco is coming to Houston to perform a an unforgettable lyrical concert of classic opera.
Halloween Movie at Miller: The Wolfman
October 31, 2011
Miller Outdoor Theatre
Howl at the Halloween moon as Miller screens this 1941 Horror classic starring Lon Chaney Jr. in his most memorable role in The Wolfman at Miller.
Blues and Burgers featuring Ann Crawfish Brown Band

Discovery Green
Bite into a juicy burger with a side of Houston's best in blues at these lunchtime concerts.
Posted by at No comments:
Labels:
Location: Houston, TX, USA
Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)