HOUSTON – August 18, 2025 – Discovery Green, downtown Houston’s premier urban park, announces an exciting lineup of fall programming running September through November. Seasonal highlights include the debut of Chroma Collective by Karen Navarro, the return of beloved traditions like Scream on the Green®, Día de los Muertos, México en el Corazón, Toddler Tuesdays, Flea by Night presented by Green Mountain Energy, Bank of America’s Screen on the Green and a robust schedule of free fitness classes presented by UTHealth Houston.
Public art takes center stage with Chroma Collective, an immersive, interactive installation commissioned as part of Discovery Green’s inaugural Art Lab mentorship program, which is the first of its kind. Visitors are invited to move through and engage with a vibrant blend of two-dimensional imagery, three-dimensional sculpture, and mirrored surfaces, creating ever-changing reflections that make each experience unique. Conceived by artist Karen Navarro, the work explores the fluidity of identity and the beauty of Houston’s diversity.
Fall also brings an abundance of special events for all ages. México en el Corazón fills the park with traditional dance, ballet folklórico, regional costumes and indigenous traditions on September 20. On October 25, the park transforms into a Halloween fright fest with Scream on the Green®, complete with a costume contest, games, music and an outdoor screening of Beetlejuice Beetlejuice. The season’s arts and cultural programming culminates with Día de los Muertos on November 2, featuring a sacred procession, a community ofrenda and a lively tribute concert to Texas musical legends.
Bank of America’s Screen on the Green returns with family-friendly films under the stars, including A Minecraft Movie in September and The Nightmare Before Christmas in October. Movie-goers can come in costume to join the fun, with pre-movie games, photo opportunities, and activities adding to the festive atmosphere. Families can also enjoy the return of Toddler Tuesdays sponsored by Memorial Hermann GoHealth in October with themed story times, crafts and a special Halloween celebration.
The beloved bumper boats and LED kayaks — which debuted this summer and quickly became a park favorite — will make a splashy return for the duration of the Houston Pumpkin Festival. Step into a storybook of fall magic at Discovery Green, where kids and grown-ups alike can bounce on giant pumpkins, stroll through sunflowers, and wander beneath glittering trees. Surrounded by the sights and colors of autumn, guests can also drift across the water aboard the whimsical bumper boats and kayaks, adding a playful twist to the season’s most-photographed tradition. This is a ticketed event, and a portion of each ticket sold helps support Discovery Green’s year-round free programming.
Fitness presented by UTHealth Houston offers free classes for all levels throughout the season, from Hatha Yoga, Gentle Yoga Flow and Spanish Yoga, to the dynamic new Hip Hop Yoga and Spoken Word Flow series. Visitors can also keep Houston green with Recycling Saturdays in partnership with the City of Houston.
Discovery Green is located at 1500 McKinney St. (Houston, TX 77010). Events are free and open to the public unless otherwise noted. All events are subject to change. Please visit discoverygreen.com for the latest updates and to RSVP for the events.
ART
Chroma Collective by Karen Navarro
Friday, September 12 – Sunday, November 2 from 6 am – 11 pm
Commissioned by Discovery Green Conservancy as part of the inaugural Art Lab program, Chroma Collective blends two-dimensional imagery with three-dimensional sculpture and mirrored surfaces that invites the public to interact and contribute to its dynamic, shifting tapestry.
Inspired by Navarro’s journey as an immigrant of Latin American, European and Indigenous descent, Chroma Collective represents the fluidity of identity while reflecting the environment and the people who engage with the work. Its location in Discovery Green – a 12-acre oasis in the heart of the city – highlights how Houston’s diversity creates opportunities to celebrate individuality while cultivating collective action for a more equitable society.
Navarro was one of the first fellows of Art Lab, Discovery Green’s new initiative to mentor underrepresented local artists and help them create large-scale, interactive public works that invite the community to become part of the art. Art Lab was co-created and co-curated by Discovery Green Conservancy and Weingarten Art Group.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Mexico en el Corazón
Saturday, September 20 from 7 – 10 pm
Celebrate the beauty of Mexican culture with the international touring company México en el Corazón. With more than 70 performers the evening promises a spectacular showcase of traditional Mexican dance, ballet folklorico, regional costuming, indigenous traditions and more. Attendees will also enjoy a special Flea by Night presented by Green Mountain Energy, a curated market featuring Latin food and vendors throughout the park.
Scream on the Green®
Saturday, October 25 from 6 – 9 pm
Get ready for a frightfully fun night! Scream on the Green® is back with a popular costume contest, living sculptures, games, spooky music, photo opps and more. This Discovery Green celebration is a not to be missed tradition! A special outdoor screening of Beetlejuice Beetlejuice will be held on the Grace Event Lawn starting at 7 pm.
Beetlejuice Beetlejuice from 7 – 8:45 pm
Still haunted by Beetlejuice, Lydia’s life gets turned upside down when her daughter discovers a portal to the afterlife. When someone says Beetlejuice’s name three times, the mischievous demon soon returns to unleash his very own brand of mayhem. (2024, 104 mins, PG-13)
Dia de Los Muertos
Sunday, November 2 from 3 – 7 pm
The celebration begins with a sacred procession led by Danza Azteca Macuilxochitl, followed by the Catrín y Catrinas Parade—featuring a costume contest judged by local leaders and YOU. Bring a photo or keepsake* to add to a stunning community ofrenda created by artist Angel Quesada.
At sunset there will be a concert by the Segundo Barrio Children’s Chorus.
We close the night with La Musical Ofrenda, a high-energy tribute concert curated by Nick Gaitan and spotlighting some of Houston’s finest musicians, honoring legendary artists from across Texas.
*Note: Please bring copies of photos. Do not bring any originals.
ENTERTAINMENT
Bank of America’s Screen on the Green
Enjoy a family movie under the stars in the city’s coolest park. Bring a blanket or camping chairs and snacks or a picnic. Please leave alcohol and glass containers at home. Food, beer and wine are also available for purchase at The Lake House.
Costumes are strongly encouraged! Arrive early for games and activities.
A Minecraft Movie
Saturday, September 27 from 7 – 9 pm
A mysterious portal pulls four misfits into the Overworld, a bizarre, cubic wonderland that thrives on imagination. To get back home, they’ll have to master the terrain while embarking on a magical quest with an unexpected crafter named Steve. (2025, 101 mins., PG)
The Nightmare Before Christmas
Friday, October 24 from 7 – 8:30 pm
The film follows the misadventures of Jack Skellington, Halloweentown’s beloved pumpkin king, who has become bored with the same annual routine of frightening people in the “real world.” When Jack accidentally stumbles on Christmastown, all bright colors and warm spirits, he gets a new lease on life — he plots to bring Christmas under his control by kidnapping Santa Claus and taking over the role. But Jack soon discovers even the best-laid plans of mice and skeleton men can go seriously awry. (1993, 76 mins., PG)
Flea by Night presented by Green Mountain Energy
Saturdays, September 20, October 18 and November 15 from 6 – 10 pm
Flea by Night is a fun-filled open-air market where local makers, artists, plant vendors and small businesses bring their best vintage finds, handmade treasures, unique creations, and one-of-a-kind local goods.
FAMILY & CHILDREN
Toddler Tuesdays
Sponsored by Memorial Hermann GoHealth
Tuesdays, October 7, 14, 21 and 28 from 10:30 am – 12:30 pm
Toddlers and their caretakers enjoy four gorgeous mornings of interactive story time. Each week features a themed story time with crafts. On October 28, enjoy a fun Halloween costume contest with lots of fun prizes. Community partners include Kinder High School for Performing and Visual Arts, Barbara Bush Literacy of Houston, Baylor College of Medicine, Collaborative for Children – Collab Lab, Frame Dance and Toddler Town.
October 7
Book: “Winnie the Pooh: Owl’s Reading Lessons” by Disney Reading Group
Character: Winnie the Pooh
Christi Harvey to read her book “My 3 Squirrels: The Rescue with a Twist”
October 14
Book: “Bluey: The Creek” by Penguin Young Readers
Characters: Bluey and Bingo
October 21
Book: “Stitch-or-Treat!” by Eric Geron and RH Disney
Character: Stitch
October 28
Book: “Even Superheroes Have Bad Days” “Even Superheroes Get Scared” by Shelly Becker’
Characters: Superman and Superwoman
Halloween Costumes encouraged, come as your favorite superhero!
HEALTHY LIVING
Fitness presented by UTHealth Houston
Monday, September 1 – Saturday, November 15
All fitness levels are welcome in this free fitness series at Discovery Green presented by UTHealth Houston. Registration is requested on site. Bring a towel and water, as well as a mat for yoga classes. Visit discoverygreen.com/fitness for updates.
Clase de Yoga Respiración Consciente y Meditación de Sonidos en Español
Mondays, September 1 – November 17 from 6:30 – 7:30 pm
Esta clase ofrece prácticas de yoga, respiración y meditación de sonidos a la comunidad hispano hablante de Houston. Guiada por Natalia Uribe y Sebastián Romero seguida de un baño de sonido y meditación a cargo de Saumil Manek.
Gentle Yoga Flow
Tuesdays, September 2 – November 18 from 6:30 – 7:30 pm
Strengthen your body, relax your mind and find your center with this dynamic flow yoga and sound. Class is led by Farida Meguid with crystal sound bowls played by Saumil Manek.
New! Hip Hop Yoga and Spoken Word Flow
Wednesdays, September 3 – November 19 from 6:30 – 7:30 pm
Hip Hop Yoga Vibes & Spoken Word Flow is an unforgettable open-air yoga experience where movement, music, and meaning collide. Instructor Alicia Dugar Stephenson, infuses every class with lighthearted humor, cultural rhythm, and poetic presence. This practice celebrates joy, community, and the glorious gift of being alive. Expect smooth transitions, playful instruction, and a soulful vibe that speaks to your body and your spirit.
Hatha Yoga
Saturdays, September 6 – November 15 from 9 – 10 am
A basic vinyasa yoga class for enhanced awareness and a strong, healthy body led by Andria Dugas. This Saturday class is a perfect way to start the weekend strong.
Recycling Saturdays
Saturdays, 11 am – 2 pm
Bring your sorted glass, paper, plastic and aluminum to a recycling bin provided by the City of Houston.
OTHER PUBLIC EVENTS
These events are not produced by Discovery Green. Consider holding your next party, festival or corporate event at Discovery Green and support this uncommonly beautiful urban greenspace. More information at discoverygreen.com/rentals.
Dogfest
Saturday, September 13 from 10 am – 1 pm
Bring your pups, friends and family and join us for DogFest. This family- and dog-friendly festival will include music, fun games and activities, vendors and more. Let’s celebrate the human-canine bond and the joy dogs bring to our lives, while raising funds and awareness for non-profit Canine Companions. What better time to celebrate than during National Service Dog Month! www.canine.org/dogfesthouston
Houston Pumpkin Festival
Saturday, September 20 – Sunday, November 2
Monday – Thursday from 3 – 10 pm and Friday – Sunday from 10 am – 10 pm
Step into a storybook of fall magic at Discovery Green. From bouncing on giant pumpkins to walking through sunflowers and glittering trees, this is where autumn dreams come to life for kids and grown-ups alike. This is a ticketed event.
Southern Smoke Festival
Saturday, October 4 from 4 – 8 pm
Southern Smoke Festival returns to Houston’s Discovery Green on October 4. This high-energy event brings together 85+ top chefs, beverage pros, and live music for one unforgettable day. More than a feast, it fuels the Southern Smoke Foundation’s mission to support food and beverage workers in crisis. Come for the flavors, stay for the cause. This is a ticketed event. Tickets can be purchased at: https://southernsmoke.org/festival/ssf-2025/
Korean Festival
Saturday, October 11 from 10 am – 9 pm
Sunday, October 12 from 11 am – 7 pm
Korean Festival showcases the best of Korean food, music, performing arts, and culture. Featuring vendors and performers from all over the world. This festival reaches a broad array of Houstonians, including foodies, KPop fans, families, and Houstonians hoping to experience Korean culture in the heart of Houston.
kfesthouston.com
Families with Pride
Saturday, October 18 from 9 am – 12 pm
Families with Pride celebrates and uplifts LGBTQ+ families and allies, creating a safe joyful space where all families are seen, supported and celebrated. Hosted by Council Member Abbie Kamin in partnership with The Greater Houston LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce.
IGBO Festival
Saturday, October 18 from 3 – 10 pm
The largest West African festival hosted by Ndi Ichie Cultural Association featuring masquerades and cultural performances from across the U.S.
Annual Black Heritage Festival
Sunday, October 19 from 2 – 8 pm
The Annual Black Heritage Fest is a vibrant, free cultural celebration that brings together the city’s African American community and beyond in a spirited showcase of heritage and creativity.
Space City Fest
Sunday, October 26 from 4 – 8 pm
Space City Fest is a once a year fall celebration held by Space City Church. With vendors, custom cars, a concert and more.
https://www.spacecitychurch.com/spacecityfest
Bites and Beyond Festival
Saturday, November 8 from 1 – 10 pm
Get ready for an immersive celebration that marries the best of music, food, and art at the inaugural Bites & Beyond Music & Food Festival in Houston! This vibrant one-day festival spotlights both local talent and nationally recognized acts, bringing together a rich mix of live performances, culinary delights, and creative flair. This is a tickted event. To purchase tickets visit: https://bitesxbeyond.com
2025 Texas Family Literacy Festival
Saturday, November 15 from 10:30 am – 6:30 pm
Journey to Story Square, where alphabet magic spells fun family learning. The Texas Family Literacy Festival is a day that is sure to enchant families with the bliss of alphabet magic in an unforgettable haven for families with children of all ages. Learn together with fun, games, prizes, great and yummy vendors, and performances from around the world at the country’s first-ever statewide family literacy festival. Free with registration.
visit www.ourstorysquare.com
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ABOUT DISCOVERY GREEN®
Discovery Green® is a highly acclaimed 12-acre park created by a public-private partnership between the City of Houston and the nonprofit Discovery Green Conservancy in downtown Houston, Texas. Since opening in April 2008, the park has welcomed more than 20 million visitors. Discovery Green® features sprawling lawns, a one-acre lake, an interactive fountain, a playground, public art installations, gardens and an allée of century-old live oaks. The Discovery Green Conservancy works with hundreds of programming partners to present artistic, musical, educational, family-friendly and health-focused events each year, most of which are presented free to the public. The park also features two on-site restaurants, the award-winning destination restaurant The Grove and the fast-casual The Lake House, providing visitors with an array of dining options. As a nonprofit organization, the Conservancy raises all the funds needed for the programming that Houstonians enjoy. For more information, please visit https://www.discoverygreen.com. Arts programming is made possible in part by the City of Houston through the Houston Arts Alliance.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Facebook: @DiscoveryGreenHouston
X (formerly Twitter): @DiscoveryGreen
Instagram: @DiscoveryGreen
Discovery Green. Reg. U.S. Pat. and Tm. Off.