Fun Fall Festivals for Families
by Dana Donovan
When you think of October, you probably think of Halloween. When I think of October, I think of fall festivals! After such a long, hot summer, I can’t wait to get out there and experience the live music, art, street vendors, and food. And when I say food, I really mean funnel cakes!
Here’s a list of some of our favorite local, family-friendly festivals happening around Houston this fall. We might even see you out at a few of them.
Bayou City Art Festival – October 8 & 9
One of my favorite festivals in Houston! Bayou City Art Festival is the nation’s premier fall outdoor fine art event. The Festival has been ranked in American Style Magazine’s “Top 10 Festivals” for the past two years, was listed in Sunshine Artist’s “200 Best List” for the past two years, and was voted “Best Art Gallery in Houston” by readers of Click2Houston.com and “Best Festival in Houston” in the Houston Press’s “Best of Houston” issue. Tickets are $12 for adults; children 12 and under admitted free. www.bayoucityartfestival.com
Hands-On Family Festival – October 1
Families and visitors of all ages are invited to this fun day of indoor/outdoor activities. Enjoy hands-on craft activities, demonstrations by local artists, musical entertainment, storytellers, and new exhibitions in the main galleries. Choose from a variety of local food trucks, refreshments, a beer garden, and a cupcake-decorating station to satisfy all your cravings. The festival also honors Mayor Annise Parker for her work in keeping the arts free for families in Houston. This is a free event. www.crafthouston.org
Texas Renaissance Festival – October 8 – November 27
Visiting RenFest is like stepping back into a 16th century European village. Its 53 acres include 340 shops, food and unique arts and crafts vendors, and hundreds of costumed characters performing daily. Located in Plantersville, the festival is open weekends from 9am until dusk. Tickets are$25 for adults and $12 for children, but you can take advantage of their online Family 4-Pack of 2 adults’ and 2 children’s tickets for $50. www.texrenfest.com
Katy Rice Harvest Festival – October 8-9
This festival started back in 1981, and now attracts between 40,000 and 50,000 people each year. The festival features two stages with continuous live entertainment, a parade, craft and food booths, a carnival, and more. Tickets are $10; kids 9 and under get in free. www.riceharvestfestival.org
Via Colori – November 19 and 20
Via Colori is different from other festivals. It is a celebration of creativity and is founded on a spirit of cooperation and non-competitiveness. There are no winners or losers…just the collected creative expression of artists working together to support a cause. Families can visit the Via Bambini neighborhood to create their own street art and participate in a variety of fun activities. Admission is free. www.viacolori.com
Festa Italiana – October 14-16
The location for this event has bounced around over the years, but they seem to have found a home on the grounds of St. Thomas University. Filled with entertainment—including the popular grape-stomping event, pasta-eating contest, I Madonnari chalk art contest, and plenty of children’s activities—this festival features something for everyone. Tickets are $8; kids 12 and under get in free. www.houstonitalianfestival.com
The Original Greek Festival – October 6-9
Now in its 45th year, the Original Greek Festival is just as much fun now as it was 20 years ago when I went for the first time. Whether you go with family or friends, you’ll love the festive atmosphere and the amazing food! Admission is $5 for adults; children 12 and under admitted free. www.greekfestival.org
Conroe Cajun Catfish Festival – October 14-16
Activities include arts and crafts exhibitors from all over Texas and from other states near and far. Families can come out and spend the day in a Kids’ Area that includes children’s fun rides, a Monster Mural, petting zoo, amusements, pony rides, and the Small Fry Stage, where young dancers from several local dance and art schools will perform. Admission is $12 for adults; kids 12 and under get in free. www.conroecajuncatfishfestival.com
Turkish Fest – October 15-16
There will be lots to do at the 2011 Turkish Fest in Jones Plaza. Enjoy Turkish hospitality and experience the culture, heritage, and cuisine of this wonderful country. Tickets are $8 for adults, $5 for kids 8-16 years old; children under 8 admitted free of charge. www.turkishfest.com
Ballunar Festival – October 21-23
Who would have thought that in just ten short years, an event commemorating the 200th anniversary of the first manned flight in France would grow to become one of the largest balloon events in the United States? This unique festival is a one-of-a-kind tribute to human flight. Enjoy hot air balloon competitions, evening balloon glows, skydiving exhibitions, commercial exhibits, concession booths, food, arts and crafts, entertainment, and various aviation equipment displays. Admission is $10 per vehicle. www.ballunarfestival.com
Texian Market Days – October 22
Texian Market Days is a family-friendly living history festival that features interactive activities, Civil War camps and battle reenactments, historic home tours, archeological digs, food, and live entertainment. Held annually on the fourth weekend in October, Texian Market Days offers families an affordable and educational weekend immersed in Texas history. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for kids ages 5 to 15; children 4 and under admitted free of charge. www.texianmarketdays.com
Korean Festival – October 22
In only its third year, the Korean Festival has already become a popular local event, bringing South Korea’s classic and modern culture to downtown Houston. This year’s theme is The Sights of Korea, featuring visual aspects of the country from its astonishing natural beauty and tourist sites to its traditional costumes. Admission is free. www.koreanfestivalhouston.com
Gulf Coast International Dragon Boat Regatta – October 22-23
Dragon boat racing is the world’s fastest-growing water sport, combining tradition with teamwork, enthusiasm, and strategy. You may remember Prince William beating Kate Middleton in a dragon boat race during their trip to Canada—now you have a chance to see the sport for yourself. There will also be food, entertainment, and activities for the whole family. www.texasdragonboat.com
Kids on Buffalo Bayou – October 29
We liked this event in June, now we love it in October! Enjoy a day filled with hands-on educational activities, music, food, park performers, and boat rides on the bayou. Activity stations will include a showcase of bayou animals and insects, wildflower seed-ball making, sun prints, crab marsh, and hands-on activities from over 25 Houston non-profit organizations. This is a free event. www.buffalobayou.org
