October in Houston means pumpkin-spiced everything, a cool breeze (finally!), and weekends so full you’ll wish you could clone yourself. From Greek feasts to world-class art festivals, high-flying air shows to time-traveling villages, here’s what’s filling the city’s fall calendar.
Planning your spooky season? From pumpkin patches to haunted houses, the Lodgeur Guide to Halloween in Houston highlights the city’s best events for all levels of scare.
For three days, the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral becomes a little piece of the Mediterranean. Folk dancers spin to the sounds of bouzouki music while you savor spanakopita, grilled souvlaki, and plates piled high with dolmades. Cash moves faster than cards here, and the homemade pastries—especially the baklava—sell out fast. Want to avoid downtown parking? Carpool or rideshare. The full schedule is on the Original Greek Festival website.
NRG Arena hosts this glittering celebration of Pakistani television, film, and music. Expect a night packed with live performances, emotional speeches, and fashion that demands its own spotlight. The audience energy is more rock concert than awards show. Find details at the HUM Network site.
About an hour outside Houston in Plantersville, the Texas Renaissance Festival is part immersive theater, part craft fair, and part feast. Wander a sprawling 16th-century-style village populated with jousting knights, minstrels, artisans, and an incredibly eclectic crowd—historical purists, fantasy cosplayers, and outfits that defy easy description. Each weekend has a different theme, from Oktoberfest to Heroes and Villains. Check the TRF website for the schedule and costume inspiration, and bring cash for turkey legs and mead.
Houston’s largest outdoor fine art event transforms Memorial Park into an open-air gallery. Hundreds of artists from across the country set up booths, joined by live music, food trucks, and a children’s creative zone. Wear comfortable shoes, bring a refillable water bottle, and if you spot a piece you love, don’t “think about it”—the best works go fast. Updates are at the Bayou City Art Festival site.
For nine days, the George R. Brown Convention Center becomes the quilting capital of the world. Things kick off with Houston Quilt Market (October 4–6), a trade-only event where industry pros shop, network, and set next year’s trends. Then the doors open for the International Quilt Festival with Preview Night on October 8 and the full show October 9–12. Expect thousands of quilts—from intricate heirlooms to avant-garde textile art—and a vendor mall so big you’ll log miles exploring it. Even if you’ve never threaded a needle, the artistry will leave you impressed. If you’re visiting, see Lodgeur’s guide to where to stay for Quilt Festival and Quilt Market for Midtown accommodations just minutes from the GRB. Event info is at the Quilt Festival site.
Card gamers descend on NRG Center for a weekend of Magic: The Gathering tournaments, casual play zones, and vendor booths stocked with rare cards and accessories. Whether you’re chasing championship glory or just hunting for that elusive card, it’s a must for tabletop fans. Planning to attend? Lodgeur’s guide to where to stay and park for a magical experience will make your weekend much smoother. Learn more at the Star City Games site.
NRG Center fills with pop culture nostalgia: trading cards, vintage toys, anime art, and celebrity signings. The cosplay competition draws some of the most elaborate costumes in Texas. Saturday mornings are the busiest—arrive later in the day or on Sunday for lighter crowds. Check Lodgeur’s NRG event guide for tips on parking and nearby hotels. Details at the Collect-A-Con site.
Ellington Field’s two-day airshow packs the skies with precision military teams, vintage warbirds, and jaw-dropping aerobatics. On the ground, you’ll find static aircraft displays and family-friendly activities. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and your longest camera lens. Full program details are at the Wings Over Houston site.
Starting and finishing downtown at Sam Houston Park, this flat, fast course is perfect for chasing a personal record. Over 7,500 runners take to the streets each year, cheered on by lively spectators. Post-race, reward yourself with breakfast tacos at one of Midtown’s cafes. If you’re visiting for race weekend, check Lodgeur’s Midtown stays for walkable lodging near the start. Registration is open at the official race site.
November continues Houston’s streak of perfect outdoor weather with more Renaissance Festival weekends, early holiday markets popping up across the city, and the inevitable Christmas decorations appearing suspiciously soon after Halloween. Check out our November events roundup for next month’s highlights!
