Midtown Houston is Houston’s most walkable neighborhood and on the first Thursday of the month, the neighborhood comes alive with a block party. Restaurants, bars, and businesses stay open late and put out their best deals and specials for visitors to enjoy.
The Mid Main Gallery (street-level gallery at the mixed-use development Mid Main Lofts) features an exhibition by a different local Houston artist each month. On First Thursdays, the artists usually attend and mingle with the public to share more about their work.
Winnie’s is known for its cocktails and sandwiches. This lively spot usually features live music on its outdoor patio, where children are also welcome. Check out their rotating list of seasonal cocktails, or the flight of frozen cocktails served up in a signature treasure chest.
The Continental Club is a Houston institution with a decades-long reputation for bringing iconic live music to Houston. (Guests may also be familiar with the Continental Club’s sister location in Austin.)
The Beetle (a Beatles tribute band) has been rocking the Continental Club every Thursday night for 20 years and has earned a devoted following. The First Thursday wrist band grants you free entry to the show. On First Thursdays, the band typically plays on the outdoor stage and children may attend.
One street is blocked off for pedestrians to enjoy a night market with locally made products ranging from clothing to home decor items. (Lodgeur’s favorite night market stall is The Baker’s Man, which sells handcrafted bundt cakes in seven flavors.) The hanging lights add a festive vibe.
The first Thursday at 6pm, most months. Check the calendar here for dates. The event occurs 8 months out of the year – usually avoiding the hottest summer months and the busy Christmas season.
The $10 entry fee is donated to a different charity each month and usually gets you a few beers or other drinks from local breweries, distilleries and wine merchants like St. Arnold Brewing Company, William Price Distilling and Curated Cellar Club. It also covers entry to Shoeshine Charley’s Big Top Lounge at the Continental Club.
Park in the gated parking garage at Mid Main Lofts for a small fee. The address is 3550 Main Street.
Whether you’re looking for a place to eat, drink, or shop, First Thursdays has something for everyone. If you’re looking for a low-key night out in Houston, be sure to check out First Thursdays at Mid Main. For brunch, check out our Midtown recommendations here.
