You’re Invited To Explore the Realm of Fantastic Animals, Discover a New Favorite Band from Deep in the Heart of Texas and More!
Discovery Green, Houston’s premier destination for free community programming, is kicking off fall with a vibrant season celebrating Houston’s rich cultural diversity. New this season are Fantastic Animals from Mexico: Alebrijes and Nahuales, Deep in the Heart: A Texas Music Series and the park’s inaugural Diwali – Festival of Lights.
This season’s signature attraction is Fantastic Animals from México: Alebrijes and Nahuales, a stunning outdoor exhibition featuring eight, 20-foot tall sculptures inspired by Mexican magical realism and Mesoamerican folklore. Created by celebrated Mexican artists, the colorful installation features fantastic creatures – from a winged armadillo to a lion-bull – and celebrates México’s rich artistic heritage while highlighting the cultural connections between Houston and its neighbor. Throughout the exhibition, visitors can further explore the art form through hands-on artist workshops led by acclaimed Mexican papier-mâché artist Irving Mondragón Laguna.
Music lovers can enjoy free concerts every Thursday in October during the new Deep in the Heart: A Texas Music Series, a five-week celebration of Texas music featuring the best of Texas artists from across the state. The curated series features performances spanning Americana, blues, country, hip-hop, indie, punk rock, and Tejano music. The lineup includes NPR’s 2026 Tiny Desk winner Cure for Paranoia and many more.
Discovery Green’s fall calendar also shines a spotlight on Houston’s multicultural community through an exciting lineup of signature festivals and celebrations. Visitors can experience the internationally acclaimed México en el Corazón, featuring more than 70 performers showcasing traditional dance, music and regional culture; celebrate Día de los Muertos with a community ofrenda, live performances and the beloved La Musical Ofrenda tribute concert; or attend the park’s inaugural Diwali – Festival of Lights, a vibrant evening celebrating Indian culture through Bollywood dance, performances, henna, food and family activities.
October also brings back the park’s popular Scream on the Green® Halloween celebration, while Flea by Night presented by Green Mountain Energy returns throughout the season, giving Houstonians an opportunity to shop from local artists, makers, vintage vendors and small businesses.
Families can continue making Discovery Green part of their weekly routine with returning favorites including Toddler Tuesdays, Writing Workshops, Screen on the Green outdoor movie nights and free fitness classes presented by UTHealth Houston. From yoga and Tai Chi to Hip Hop Yoga and Yoga en Español, the park’s wellness programming continues throughout the fall for participants of every experience level.
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 www.discoverygreen.com for the latest updates.
Photography available here (credits in photo captions).
ARTS
Fantastic Animals from México: Alebrijes and Nahuales
Tuesday, September 15 – Sunday, October 18
This fall, Discovery Green presents eight 20-foot-tall sculptures depicting fantastic creatures from the realm of the spirits as imagined through Mexican magical realism. Designed and created by Mexican artists, these brightly colored animals represent the powerful animal guardian spirits of Mesoamerican folklore. Inspired by México City artist Pedro Linares, each sculpture is an enlarged reproduction of original works by celebrated Oaxacan artists. The exhibition pays tribute to the exceptional craftsmanship of Mexican artists, celebrates México’s rich cultural heritage and highlights the connections between Houston and its neighbor.
Fantastic Animals: Artist Workshops for All Ages
Mexican papier-mâché artist and folk-art creator Irving Mondragón Laguna teaches the techniques he uses to create Mexican popular art. Participants will gain experience with these easy-to-use materials and walk away with their very own handmade object.
Papier-Mâché Masks
Saturday, September 19 from 2 – 4 p.m.
Small Alebrijes
Saturday, September 26 from 5 – 7 p.m.
SPECIAL EVENTS
México en el Corazón
Saturday, September 26 from 7 – 10 p.m.
Celebrate the beauty of Mexican culture with the international touring company México en el Corazón. With more than 70 performers and thousands of attendees, the evening promises a spectacular showcase of traditional Mexican dance, ballet folklórico, 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. México en el Corazón is presented in partnership with North American Institute for Mexican Advancement and with support from United Airlines.
Flea by Night presented by Green Mountain Energy
Saturdays, September 19 and 26; October 17; from 6 – 10 p.m.
Discovery Green helps Houstonians shop local at Flea by Night presented by Green Mountain Energy. Set in the park’s vibrant green space in the heart of downtown and along Avenida de las Americas, this fun-filled open-air market features local makers, artists, plant vendors and small businesses offering vintage finds, handmade treasures and one-of-a-kind local goods.
Part of Discovery Green’s mission is to shine a light on the diversity of talents that exist in Houston, including the entrepreneurs and creatives making a living in the city. Flea by Night is an important and popular venue for Houstonians to discover new small businesses.
Scream on the Green®
Friday, October 30 from 6 – 9 p.m.
Get ready for a frightfully fun night! Scream on the Green® is back with a popular costume contest, living sculptures, games, spooky music, photo opportunities and more. This Discovery Green celebration is a not-to-be-missed Halloween tradition.
Día de los Muertos
Sunday, November 1 from 3 – 7 p.m.
Día de los Muertos is a traditional Mexican holiday to honor and remember deceased loved ones. Bring a photo or keepsake* to add to a stunning community ofrenda created by Houston artist Angel Quesada. Enjoy a Catrín y Catrinas Parade and costume contest, as well as traditional performances, live music, food, crafts and vendors. The night ends with La Musical Ofrenda, a high-energy tribute concert celebrating some of Houston’s finest musicians and legendary artists from across Texas. Presented with support from Total Wireless.
*Please bring copies. We value your keepsakes and do not encourage bringing originals as we cannot guarantee their return.
NEW! Diwali – Festival of Lights
Saturday, November 14 from 4 – 10 p.m.
Celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights, with Discovery Green and Tx2 Dance Company. This joyful evening honors the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil through vibrant Bollywood dance lessons, spectacular performances showcasing styles from across India, hands-on henna art, cultural shopping and delicious Indian food from local vendors. Bring the whole family for an unforgettable celebration of music, dance and traditions that inspire joy, connection and the spirit of new beginnings.
ENTERTAINMENT
Screen on the Green presented by Vivian L. Smith Foundation
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 Grove Market & Park Provisions. Costumes or PJs are strongly encouraged! Arrive early for games and activities.
Selena
Saturday, September 19 from 7 – 9 pm
The true story of Selena, a Texas-born Tejana singer who rose from cult status to performing at the Astrodome, as well as having chart-topping albums on the Latin music charts. (1997 PG 2h 7m CC Spanish)
Beetlejuice Beetlejuice
Friday, October 16 from 7 –9 p.m.
After a family tragedy, three generations of the Deetz family return home to Winter River. Still haunted by Beetlejuice, Lydia’s life is turned upside down when her teenage daughter, Astrid, accidentally opens the portal to the Afterlife. (2024 PG-13 1h 45m CC English)
Deep in the Heart: A Texas Music Series
Thursdays, October 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29 from 7 – 9 p.m.
Celebrate the sounds of the Lone Star State during Discovery Green’s new Deep in the Heart Concert Series, a free weekly concert series showcasing the best of Texas artists. Spanning Americana, country, Tejano, indie rock, blues, folk and roots music, the series highlights the incredible depth and diversity of Texas musicians while creating a vibrant community gathering in the heart of downtown.
October 1: Cure For Paranoia (2026 NPR Tiny Desk Winner) with Jumprope and DJ Bloom
October 8: EZ Band with Bombón
October 15: Chaparelle with Rodell Duff and DJ Vinyl Ranch
October 22: 30footFALL with Municipal Bats and DJ Mexican Blackbird
October 29: David Michael Wyatt with DJ Big Reeks
FAMILIES AND CHILDREN
Writing Workshops
Saturdays, September 12, October 10, and November 14 from 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Wordsmiths, storytellers and young scholars are invited to this free monthly drop-in writing workshop with Writers in the Schools. These workshops are designed to unlock the joy and power of self-expression while encouraging participants to unplug from devices and connect with nature. All you need is your imagination; bringing your favorite notebook is optional.
Toddler Tuesdays
Tuesdays, October 6, 13, 20, and 27 from 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Toddlers and their caretakers are invited to enjoy interactive story time, crafts and engaging activities during four mornings of family fun at Discovery Green. Each week features a themed story time with community partners including Kinder High School for the Performing and Visual Arts, Barbara Bush Literacy Foundation, Baylor College of Medicine, Collaborative for Children, Frame Dance and Toddler Town. The series concludes with a festive Halloween costume celebration complete with prizes and seasonal fun.
HEALTHY LIVING
Recycling Saturdays
Saturdays from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Help keep Houston green by bringing your sorted glass, paper, plastic and aluminum to Discovery Green’s weekly recycling collection. Recycling bins provided by the City of Houston make it easy for visitors to responsibly dispose of recyclable materials while supporting a cleaner, more sustainable community.
Fitness presented by UTHealth Houston
Tuesday, September 1 – Wednesday, November 30
All fitness levels are welcome in this free fitness series at Discovery Green. Registration is requested on site. Bring a towel and water, as well as a mat for yoga classes. Visit discoverygreen.com/fitness for updates.
Yoga en Español
Lunes, Septiembre 7 – Noviembre 30 a las 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 seguida de un baño de sonido y meditación a cargo de Saumil Manek.
Gentle Flow Yoga
Tuesdays, September 1 – November 24 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.
Hip Hop Yoga
Wednesdays, September 2 – November 25 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.
Tai Chi
Thursdays, September 3 – November 26 from 6:30 – 7:30 pm
Teacher Angel Quesada brings nearly 30 years of experience as a movement specialist to a welcoming and restorative Tai Chi practice. His class focuses on helping participants move with greater ease, strength, balance and confidence while naturally reducing pain and increasing flexibility. Each session invites students to slow down, reconnect with their bodies and experience the calming, rejuvenating benefits of mindful movement.
Yoga Better
Saturdays, September 5 – November 28 from 9 am – 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.
OTHER PUBLIC EVENTS
Southern Smoke Festival
Saturday, October 3 from 4 – 8 p.m.
Southern Smoke Festival returns to Discovery Green, bringing together more than 85 acclaimed chefs, beverage professionals and live musical performances for an unforgettable culinary experience. Proceeds support the Southern Smoke Foundation’s mission to provide emergency relief to food and beverage workers nationwide. This is a ticketed event.
Korean Festival
Saturday, October 10 from 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Sunday, October 11 from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Experience the best of Korean food, music, performances and culture during one of Houston’s largest Korean cultural celebrations. The festival welcomes food lovers, K-pop fans, families and visitors from across the region.
Nigerian Culture Festival
Saturday October 17 from 1 – 8 p.m.
Celebrate the vibrant traditions of Nigeria through cultural performances, authentic cuisine, music and community activities highlighting one of Africa’s most dynamic cultures.
IGBO Festival
Saturday, October 24 from 3 – 10 p.m.
Hosted by the Ndi Ichie Cultural Association, the largest West African festival in Houston features traditional masquerades, cultural performances and celebrations from across the United States.
Families with Pride
Saturday, October 24 from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Families with Pride celebrates and uplifts LGBTQ+ families and allies by creating a joyful, welcoming space where everyone is seen, supported and celebrated. Hosted by Harris County Attorney Abbie Kamin in partnership with the Greater Houston LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce.
Space City Fest
Sunday, October 25 from 4 – 8 p.m.
Space City Church hosts its annual community festival featuring live music, custom cars, vendors and family-friendly entertainment.
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ABOUT DISCOVERY GREEN®
Discovery Green® is a highly acclaimed 12-acre park 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 Grove Market and Park Provisions, 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.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Facebook: @DiscoveryGreenHouston
X (formerly Twitter): @DiscoveryGreen
Instagram: @DiscoveryGreen
