HOUSTON – January 23, 2024 – Discovery Green, downtown Houston’s landmark, 12-acre urban park, is gearing up for a bounty of family-friendly 2024 programming.
The fun begins on Friday, February 9 with the return of The Rink: Rolling at Discovery Green – Houston’s only outdoor roller rink – and a special skating performance by Daisies and Pancakes with a live DJ. The first 50 people in line at 5 p.m. skate for free.
The Rink is open every day, February 9 through March 31. Admission is $12 plus tax and includes skate rental. Special pricing is available on Cheap Skate Mondays, Clutch City Wednesdays and College Student Night. As always, visitors with non-motorized wheelchairs are welcome on the rink. Tickets are available for purchase at discoverygreen.com/rollerrink.
“For over 15 years, Discovery Green has been synonymous with providing Houstonians and visitors with a treasure trove of premier arts, cultural and educational programming,” said Kathryn Lott, president of Discovery Green Conservancy. “And 2024 continues that tradition of quality and accessibility with a mix of fan-favorites, new experiences such as Girls on the Green and spotlight moments for hometown artistic talent.”
Houston’s signature greenspace will host its annual Earth Day at Discovery Green celebration on April 20th with educational talks, panel discussions, exhibitors, live music, art installations, arts, crafts and more. This year’s theme is all about art and its power to bring about positive change.
This year, Discovery Green celebrates the abundance of artistic talent in Houston with special performances during Kinder HSPVA Lunchtime Concerts and Jazzy Sundays in the Parks made possible by Kinder Foundation. From Houston to Broadway and Back, supported by the Humphreys Foundation, features Kinder HSPVA alumni who have performed on the Broadway stage and have returned for a special homecoming performance.
EOG Resources’ FUNomenal Spring Break offers students an assortment of fun and free educational S.T.E.A.M. (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) activities and cultural performances. During spring break, The Rink: Rolling at Discovery Green will be open for extended hours.
The city’s premier outdoor movie theater experience is back with Bank of America’s Screen on the Green. Families will enjoy free evening screenings of blockbuster hits, such as Barbie on March 2. In addition to the movie screening, Discovery Green celebrates Women’s History Month with Girls on the Green. The event features female-led musical entertainment, empowering performances, and a panel discussion to empower women. Barbie-themed photo opportunities will also be available.
Fitness in the Park brings Houstonians a host of free fitness classes. This season presents parkgoers four classes per week, including a Saturday morning Hatha flow, a Monday evening class led entirely in Spanish, a gentle flow and sound meditation on Tuesday evenings and bilingual Zumba on Wednesdays.
The park’s signature, open-air market, Flea by Night presented by Green Mountain Energy, showcases local artisans and small business owners selling vintage, handmade, recycled and repurposed goods.
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 refer to discoverygreen.com for updates.
Interviews with President Kathryn Lott or Artistic Director Susanne Theis about spring’s programming lineup available upon request.
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SPRING PROGRAMMING SCHEDULE
Friday, February 9 – Sunday, June 30
THE RINK: ROLLING AT DISCOVERY GREEN
Friday, February 9 – Sunday, March 31
This spring, visitors can enjoy seven weeks of roller-skating fun at Houston’s only outdoor roller rink. Let the good times roll at this Instagram-worthy spot that’s fun for all ages. Admission is $12 plus tax and includes skate rental. Proceeds support Discovery Green Conservancy’s mission, park maintenance and free cultural programs. Tickets must be purchased online at discoverygreen.com/therink.
Hours of Operation
Monday – Thursday 5–10 p.m.
Fridays 5–11 p.m.
Saturdays and school holidays* 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Sundays 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.
School holidays are February 19, March 11 – 15, March 25
On Sunday, March 3, The Rink will open to the general public at 2 p.m.
Discounts
First responders and members of the military who show a valid ID receive a $2
discount per ticket for up to five people.
Discovery Green donors receive a $2 discount per ticket for up to five family members. Proof of member card required.
If you are a non-motorized wheelchair user, you are welcome to enjoy the rink in your own wheelchair. You must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times while on the ice rink. Motorized wheelchairs are not permitted on the rink. Admission for the wheelchair user is free.
The roller rink may be closed or delayed at times due to weather conditions or private events. Check
discoverygreen.com for closures and other delays. Ticket holders will be notified via email if weather closures are necessary at their reserved times. Ticket sales support Discovery Green Conservancy, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that depends on the generosity of park visitors and other friends to maintain the park and to fund free events held here every year.
THE RINK: ROLLING AT DISCOVERY GREEN EVENTS
Opening Night
Friday, February 9
5 –11 p.m.
Daisies and Pancakes’ skate community and instructors will showcase their epic talent with music by DJ Yung Chris. The first 50 skaters in line will skate for free. Forever Green members skate for free from 5–7 p.m.
Cheap Skate Nights
Mondays, February 12, 19 & 26 and March 4 & 18
5–10 p.m.
On select Mondays, skate for just $8 plus tax (includes skate rental).
The Lab
Tuesdays, February 13, 20 & 27 and March 5, 19 & 26
6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Daisies and Pancakes’ skate instructors will offer lessons for beginner and intermediate level skaters on select Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Lessons are family-friendly, and individuals ages 5 years and up are encouraged to participate. Pre-registration is highly recommended as limited spots are available. Admission is $20 plus tax (includes skate rental). Tickets can be purchased at www.discoverygreen.com/therink
Clutch City Wednesdays
Wednesdays, February 14, 21 & 28 and March 6, 13, 20 & 27
5–10 p.m.
Skate to music by Houston artists and wear any H-town
professional team gear to receive $2 off admission. Discounted tickets must be purchased in-person.
College Student Night
Thursdays, February 15, 22, & 29 and March 7, 21 & 28
5–10 p.m.
On select Thursdays, college students who show their valid school ID will receive a $2 discount on admission.
FUNomenal Fridays
Fridays, February 16 and March 1, 8, 15 & 29
8–11 p.m.
Music by DJ Monstaa, a light show and roller skating make for FUNomenal Friday nights.
Skate Party Saturdays
Saturdays, February 10 and March 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30
7–10 p.m.
Enjoy music by DJ Boris while skating under the stars.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Girls on the Green
A Women’s History Month Celebration
Saturday, March 2
4 – 9 p.m.
Celebrate Women’s History Month at Discovery Green. Activities include women-led musical entertainment, a market full of women-owned businesses and artists, a Dragon Boat demonstration from survivors of breast cancer and more. Custom Barbie box photo opportunities and women-made art cars will be on site. A panel discussion led by Discovery Green Conservancy Board member Staci LaToison will empower attendees with stories of the women founders of Discovery Green and other notable Houstonians. A Bank of America’s Screen on the Green viewing of the movie Barbie will begin at 7 p.m.
Flea by Night presented by Green Mountain Energy
Saturdays, March 16 and June 15
6–10 p.m.
Treasure hunt for one-of-a-kind vintage, handmade, recycled and local goods while enjoying musical entertainment and food trucks.
Earth Day at Discovery Green and Houston Public Works’ Water Works Festival
In partnership with Citizens’ Environmental Coalition
Saturday, April 20
12–5 p.m.
Artists have a way of helping people see the beauty of the world in a new way, and art has the power to change minds and hearts.
Earth Day at Discovery Green encourages the use of art to
engage people and urge them to action. Just as anyone can be an artist, anyone can be an activist. During Earth Day at Discovery Green, you can be both!
Jazzy Sundays in the Parks
Made possible by Kinder Foundation
This free concert series celebrates local and regional musicians representing the best in jazz and its related forms such as gospel, blues, zydeco and more. Expect free, family-friendly concerts in three Houston parks: Emancipation Park in March, The Water Works at Buffalo Bayou in April and at Discovery Green in May and June. More info at discoverygreen.com/jazzy.
Discovery Green Lineup
Sundays, May 5, 12 & 26 and June 2
5 – 7 p.m.
Headliner: Tim Ruiz and Friends (Latin Jazz for Cinco de Mayo)
Opener: Myerland Middle School Mariachi Ensemble
Sunday, May 5
Headliner: Doreen Ketchens (NOLA Jazz Clarinet)
Opener: Hustlers Brass Band (NOLA Brass)
Sunday, May 12
Headliner: Cecile McLorin Salvant (Franco-American Jazz)
Opener: The Pew (Houston Gypsy Jazz)
Sunday, May 26
Headliner: Melvin Johnson and the Electro-Akoustics (Contemporary Piano Jazz)
Opener: JHU (Funky Jazz)
Sunday, June 2
ARTS
Kinder HSPVA Lunchtime Concerts
Wednesdays, March 20 & 27
12–1 p.m.
Enjoy a dazzling, lunchtime musical performance from the talented students at Kinder HSPVA. From jazz to mariachi, take in the sounds of Houston’s rising stars.
Art Car Sneak Peek
Thursday, April 11
6–10 p.m.
Get a first look at the cars that make The Orange Show’s annual Art Car Parade one of Houston’s most memorable spectacles. With this special preview throughout Discovery Green and along Avenida de las Americas, you’ll not only get up close and personal with these fabulous, mobile pieces of art and whimsy, but also interact with the artists.
ENTERTAINMENT
Bank of America’s Screen on the Green
Enjoy a free, family-friendly movie under the stars. Guests are welcome to bring blankets, camping chairs and snacks. Please leave alcohol and glass containers at home. Food, beer and wine are available for purchase at The Lake House. Costumes are strongly encouraged! Arrive early for games and activities.
Barbie
Saturday, March 2
7–9 pm
Barbie and Ken are having the time of their lives in the colorful and seemingly perfect world of Barbie Land. However, when they get a chance to visit the real world, they soon discover the joys and perils of living among humans. (PG-13) 2023, 116 min. CC
Spanish
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem
Saturday, March 16
7–8:45 pm
Raphael, Leonardo, Donatello and Michelangelo are four turtle brothers with a unique set of skills and a penchant for mischief,which runs them afoul of New York City. Yet when a horde of sinister mutants begins to wreak havoc, the city must learn to rely on the turtles if they are to be saved. (PG) 2023, 99 min. CC English
From Houston to Broadway and Back
Saturday, March 23
7–8:30 p.m.
Broadway based alumni of neighboring Kinder HSPVA present a special homecoming performance funded by the Humphreys Foundation in partnership with Kinder HSPVA.
UHD Thursday Night Concerts
Thursdays, May 2 – 23
7–9 p.m.
Jam out to free outdoor concerts under the night sky. Lineup to revealed soon!
HEALTHY LIVING
Fitness
From yoga to bilingual Zumba, there’s a free fitness class for every wellness passion at Discovery Green. On-site registration is required. Please bring your own towel, water and a mat for yoga classes. Visit discoverygreen.com/fitness for updates.
Hatha Yoga
Saturdays, March 2 – June 29*
9–10 a.m.
A basic vinyasa yoga class for enhanced awareness and a strong, healthy body led by Andria Dugas.
*no class on April 20
Clase de Yoga Respiración Consciente y Meditación de Sonidos en Español
Lunes, 4 de marzo – 24 de junio
6:30–7:30 p.m.
Esta clase ofrece prácticas de yoga, respiración y meditación de sonidos a la comunidad latina e hispano hablante de Houston.
Gentle Yoga Flow and Sound Meditation
Tuesdays, March 5 – June 25
6:30–7:30 p.m.
Strengthen your body, relax your mind and find your center with
this dynamic flow yoga and sound healing class.
Zumba Bilingue / Bilingual Zumba
Wednesdays, March 13 – April 24*
Miercoles, 13 marzo – 24 abril
6:30–7:30 p.m.
Dance your way to health and fitness with this Zumba class led by Laly La Mega in English and Spanish!
*Not available April 3 & 17
Recycling Saturdays with Happy Earth Compost
Saturdays, March 2 – June 29*
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Bring your sorted glass, paper, plastic and aluminum to a pop-up recycling station provided by the City of Houston. Happy Earth Compost will also be on hand to receive compost donations; please be able to take your container back home.
*Not available on April 20
FAMILIES AND CHILDREN
Families and children programming is supported by the Vivian L. Smith Foundation.
Little BIPOC Book Fest at Discovery Green
Saturday, March 9
10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
The Little BIPOC Book Fest invites children ages 3-10 to encounter diverse books featuring black, indigenous and people of color experiences. Participants will enjoy a unique Storybook Opera performance, readings from local authors, arts and crafts, free books and more.
EOG Resources FUNomenal Spring Break
Monday, March 11 – Friday, March 15
12–4 p.m.
Make the most of Spring Break at Discovery Green with
Houston’s only outdoor roller-skating rink (fees apply) and plenty of free and engaging S.T.E.A.M. (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) activities, plus cultural performances.
Toddler Tuesdays
This weekly themed story time with costumed characters and crafts helps toddlers discover the joy of reading and imagination. Soft play equipment is provided by Toddler Towns.
Abella Starts a Tooth Fairy School by Zane Carruth and Kamari Loses a Tooth by Kendra Thomas
Tuesday, April 9
10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Kamari Learns Her ABC’s by Kendra Thomas and H is for Honey Bee by Robbyn Smith van Frankenhuyzen
Tuesday, April 16
10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Kamari’s First Plane Ride by Kendra Thomas and Family Trip: Peppa Pig by Scholastic
Tuesday, April 23
10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Kamari Goes to the Zoo by Kendra Thomas and Bluey: Butterflies by Penguin Young Readers Licenses
Tuesday, April 30
10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
OTHER PUBLIC EVENTS
AFROBEATS IN AMERICA FESTIVAL
Saturday, February 17
2–10 p.m.
The Afrobeats in America Festival spotlights the best of this unique musical genre. Tickets are available for purchase at aiafestival.com.
Everybody’s Favorite BBQ & Hot Sauce Festival
Friday, February 23; 4-10 p.m.
Saturday, February 24; 1-10 p.m.
Sunday, February 25; 1–9 p.m.
Come hungry to Everybody’s Favorite BBQ & Hot Sauce Festival, a welcoming, multi-cultural celebration of food and spice featuring an array of live music spanning jazz, blues, R&B, country, rock and hip-hop. Tickets can be purchased at everybodysfavoritefestival.com.
Houston Walk for Victory benefiting The Marfan Foundation
Saturday, March 2
12–3 p.m.
Walk for Victory brings individuals affected by Marfan, Loeys-Dietz (LDS), Vascular Ehlers- Danlos (VEDS) and related conditions together for an afternoon of fundraising and fun, benefiting The Marfan Foundation. For more information, please visit marfan.org.
French Cultures Festival
Friday, March 22
6–10 p.m.
In a year that takes the Olympic Games to Paris, the Cultural Service of the French Embassy in Houston presents its annual French Cultures Festival kick-off event. Enjoy a free film screening on the lawn and participate in a friendly soccer competition organized in partnership with Paris Saint-Germain Academy. Free and open to all. For more information, visit frenchculturesfestival.com.
Houston Brew Fest
Saturday, April 27
12 – 4 p.m.
Partake in an afternoon of craft beer tastings featuring over 50 breweries, 200 beers, food trucks, lawn games and live music. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit houstonbrewfestival.com.
15th Annual Houston VisionWalk
Saturday, April 27
9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
VisionWalk is a fun-filled, family-friendly walkathon fundraiser that increases awareness and raises critical research dollars for preventions, treatments and cures for blindness. To register for the 5K walk, please visit https://give.fightingblindness.org/event/houston-visionwalk-2024/e504612.
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