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I absolutely love that October in Houston is jam-packed with family-friendly events, from exciting markets and outdoor activities to thrilling shows and fun hands-on activities.
Whether you’re looking for an unforgettable new show, a new year shopping experience, or a chance to get festive, this month has something for everyone. Dive into our ultimate guide to kids’ events in Houston this October to plan your perfect month of fun!
This month’s highlights include some of my favorites, like Texas Renaissance Festival, Houston Celebrity Con, Monster Jam, and more!
This list is grouped by date range for easy browsing and quick planning.
Planning more outings this October? Explore our full list of Houston events and kid-friendly activities to keep the fun going all month long.
Editor’s Note: We work hard to provide the most up-to-date information. However, all information is subject to change! As always, please verify with the organizer before heading out!
Also, please note that this article may contain affiliate links. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost. We only recommend products and services that we genuinely believe will benefit our readers!
In case you are wondering about the choice of listings in this article, here is how we make our recommendations.
Also, check out our articles on Kids Eat Free Houston, 100 Things to do in Houston with Kids, Restaurants with Playgrounds in Houston, and Things to do in Houston with Teens
TOP PICK: ArBOOretum
Image Credit: Houston Arboretum and Nature Center
Head to Houston Arboretum & Nature Center on Saturday, October 17 for ArBOOretum! This annual fall festival features fun activities for all ages, including live animal encounters, pumpkin decorating, face painting, train rides, and Houston’s only Trick-or-Treat Nature Trail, where guests can learn about native plants and wildlife while collecting candy along the trails. Costumes are encouraged at this family-friendly event.
ArBOOretum is free for Houston Arboretum Members and children under 3. Visit the Arboretum’s website to register for the event and learn more about all of the great activities, offsite parking, accessibility accommodations, how to help make this a zero-waste event, and more!
When: Saturday, October 17, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Where: Houston Arboretum & Nature Center, 4501 Woodway Dr, Houston, TX 77024
How Much: Ticket prices vary / Free for Arboretum Members
Kids Events in Houston in October 2026 (2nd – 4th October)
Annual Members Exhibit (AME) Opening & Reception – Celebrate local art and community at the Watercolor Art Society-Houston’s gallery opening, featuring award announcements, fine watercolor artwork, complimentary wine, and bites.
Original Greek Festival – Spend a day celebrating Greek culture at the Original Greek Festival with traditional food, dancing, live music, wine, and cultural experiences at the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral.
2026 Komen Houston Race for the Cure – Walk, run, or participate virtually in the Komen Houston Race for the Cure, a community 5K supporting breast cancer research and patient support.
Sienna Gingerbread Market – Get an early start on holiday shopping at Sienna’s Gingerbread Market, where more than 60 artisans, crafters, and vendors bring handmade goods, gifts, and seasonal finds.
First Fridays at Five Points: Trick or Treat Main Street – Head to downtown La Porte for an easygoing Halloween evening where local businesses decorate their storefronts and hand out treats. Pick up a trick-or-treat bag at Five Points Plaza, then wander Main Street with the kids to pick up their treats.
The Sound of Music – Watch Maria and the von Trapp family’s beloved story as it comes to life with favorite songs like “My Favorite Things,” “Do-Re-Mi,” “Climb Ev’ry Mountain,” “Edelweiss,” and “The Sound of Music.”
Southern Smoke Festival – Head to Discovery Green for Southern Smoke Festival, where 85+ top chefs, beverage professionals, and live music come together for a glorious day of food and entertainment.
Karbachtoberfest – Celebrate Bavarian fun at Karbachtoberfest with three weekends of beer, brats, live music, stein-hoisting contests, wiener dog races, and plenty of festive activities.
OutRun Hunger – Join runners, walkers, and stroller pushers for the ninth annual OutRun Hunger 5K Family Walk & Run and help local families in need.
Moonlight Paddle – Discover Lake Woodlands after dark on a serene, staff-led kayak tour through the softly lit canal and around Aria Island under the stars.
Starlight Swan Rides – Glide along the beautifully lit Woodlands Waterway during this seasonal Starlight Swan Boats experience.
Memorial Hermann 10 for Texas – Lace up for three exciting races through The Woodlands: the 10-mile race, 3.1 Armadillo Run 5K, or One 4 Texas Kids’ Fun Run. Enjoy certified USATF-sanctioned courses and a Texas-sized celebration waiting at the finish line.
ACCT Seawalk – Join the 2026 ACCT Seawalk, a family-friendly 3K run/walk along Galveston’s historic Seawall that brings the community together to raise awareness about HIV. Honor those lost to AIDS, celebrate the progress made, and support a future without HIV.
42nd Annual Galvston Island Greek Festival – Celebrate Hellenic culture with Greek food, pastries, commemorative items, and a menu of family recipes featuring dishes from pastitsio and dolmades to souvlaki and gyros.
Image credit: Visit Galveston
70th Annual League City Village Fair – Celebrate 70 years of community at the League City Village Fair with two days of live music, family fun, food, friends, and entertainment at the Ballpark at League City.
Oktober Fest at Kemah Boardwalk – Put on your Dirndl or Lederhosen and head to Kemah Boardwalk for beer, live music, corn hole tournaments, stein-holding competitions, costume contests, and more.
Intro to Mosaic Making at Smither Park – Try your hand at mosaic art in an introductory workshop led by veteran Smither Park artists, where you’ll experiment with colors and shapes to create a unique piece to take home.
Zoo Boo – Bring the kids to the Houston Zoo for a Halloween outing filled with pumpkins, seasonal decorations, photo spots, and family-friendly activities, with select evenings adding glowing displays, Spooky Forest, and Ghost Town.
ARTECHOUSE presents Twilight Zone: Hidden Wonders of the Ocean – Take a journey into the mysterious ocean twilight zone through immersive digital art, interactive installations, original music, and extended-reality experiences at ARTECHOUSE. The 24-minute cinematic centerpiece brings the strange creatures and nightly migrations of the deep sea to life.
Phobia Haunted Houses: Kemah Boardwalk – Get ready for a double dose of scares at Kemah Boardwalk, where Phobia Haunted Houses brings two attractions to explore: Doom and Darke Labs.
Redrum Fear Park – Descend into madness at Redrum Fear Park, where four haunted attractions (Cinegore, Twisted Circus, Deadwood Asylum, and Live Industries) deliver plenty of scares alongside three live theatrical performances.
13th Floor Haunted House – Take on three separate haunted attractions at 13th Floor Haunted House, including Jason Universe: Survive the Night, Containment: Sector 9, and Cannibals Crossing. Once you’ve made it through, keep the night going with mini escape games and Zombie Apocalypse Live, or stop by The Hideout: Secret Bar.
Haunted Trails – Climb aboard a hay wagon at Haunted Trails in Old Town Spring, then head into the dark woods on foot as frightening creatures, mortifying scenes, and the spirits haunting the town emerge along the trail.
Houston Terror Dome – Go beyond the haunted house at Houston Terror Dome, where zombies, clowns, a butcher’s shop, a 3D room, and more fill the main attraction with scares. Then keep exploring with Sicko’s and Freako’s Paintball Massacre, Axemania axe throwing, three escape rooms, and more.
Houston Scream Fest – Get your fill of scares at Houston Scream Fest, a month-long Halloween festival where one ticket gets you unlimited access to Sanitarium, Castle of Doom, Casa de la Llorona, and The Graveyard, plus free drinks, including adult beverages.
Boo on the Boardwalk – Kemah Boardwalk goes all-in on Halloween with trick-or-treating, the Little Boo Haunted Fun House, costume contests, live music, movies, crafts, and more throughout October. There will also be special events such as Witches Night Out and Oktoberfest.
Clickbait: A Digital Obsession – Step beyond the screen and explore CLICKBAIT: A Digital Obsession, a first-of-its-kind interactive exhibition that turns the museum into a walkable digital world. Discover 18 large-scale installations exploring social media, AI, deepfakes, and digital identity through hands-on experiences designed for ages 8 to 98.
First Saturday Arts Market – Explore First Saturday Arts Market in the Historic Houston Heights, where local artists showcase original paintings, sculptures, photography, jewelry, and more in a lively open-air setting.
Kids Events in Houston in October 2026 (9th – 11th October)
Czechfest 2026 – Get a taste of Czech culture in Houston’s Heights with live music, dancing, the Grand March, traditional food, beer, kolaches, and a marketplace of local vendors. There are plenty of activities for kids, too, including inflatables, games, and face painting.
CabooseFest: Hootenanny & Hay Rides – Head to the Galveston Railroad Museum for a fall festival with caboose hayrides, a pumpkin patch, live entertainment, food, and games. A pie contest, chicken wing eating contest, and outdoor movie screening add some wonderfully quirky fun to the day, too.
Houston Pets Alive! presents Barktoberfest – Grab your pup and head to Barktoberfest for a fall festival filled with music, activities, and plenty of adorable dog costumes. The event also raises money for Houston Pets Alive!’s work helping the city’s most at-risk pets.
Korean Festival Houston Presented by Kroger – Celebrate Korean culture at Discovery Green with two full days of live music, authentic food, cultural programming, performances, and family-friendly activities.
Image credit: Korean Festival Houston
The Garden Club of Houston presents Bulb and Plant Mart – Shop top-quality bulbs from growers across the U.S. and abroad, including amaryllis, anemones, crocuses, daffodils, freesias, hyacinths, irises, ranunculi, tulips, and watsonias. You can also discover hard-to-find native plants grown from seed, explore special exhibits, and find native and drought-tolerant plants.
Bayou City Art Festival Memorial Park 2026 – Explore an outdoor gallery at Memorial Park where you can meet artists and shop original paintings, prints, jewelry, sculptures, functional art, and more.
Sonic Live in Concert – Celebrate 35 years of Sonic the Hedgehog with Sonic Live In Concert, featuring the franchise’s most recognizable music performed by a live ensemble, rock musicians, vocalists, and electronic elements.
Punkin’ Parade – Children’s Costume Parade – Celebrate fall with free family fun at this children’s parade, where kids can wear festive fall attire or Halloween costumes and decorate their bikes, scooters, or wagons.
Witches Night Out – Dress in your best witchy outfit for a spellbinding evening at Kemah Boardwalk filled with live music, magical crafts, mystical fortune tellers, a vendor market, an aerialist artist, a haunted DJ, and exclusive retail specials for costumed witches.
Sawyer Yards Second Saturday – Explore the creative energy of Sawyer Yards Second Saturday as artists open their studios across six transformed warehouses. Discover paintings, sculptures, jewelry, photography, textiles, mixed media, and more while meeting local artists and browsing one-of-a-kind works.
Zoo Boo – Bring the kids to the Houston Zoo for a Halloween outing filled with pumpkins, seasonal decorations, photo spots, and family-friendly activities, with select evenings adding glowing displays, Spooky Forest, and Ghost Town.
ARTECHOUSE presents Twilight Zone: Hidden Wonders of the Ocean – Take a journey into the mysterious ocean twilight zone through immersive digital art, interactive installations, original music, and extended-reality experiences at ARTECHOUSE. The 24-minute cinematic centerpiece brings the strange creatures and nightly migrations of the deep sea to life.
Phobia Haunted Houses: Kemah Boardwalk – Get ready for a double dose of scares at Kemah Boardwalk, where Phobia Haunted Houses brings two attractions to explore: Doom and Darke Labs.
Redrum Fear Park – Descend into madness at Redrum Fear Park, where four haunted attractions (Cinegore, Twisted Circus, Deadwood Asylum, and Live Industries) deliver plenty of scares alongside three live theatrical performances.
13th Floor Haunted House – Take on three separate haunted attractions at 13th Floor Haunted House, including Jason Universe: Survive the Night, Containment: Sector 9, and Cannibals Crossing. Once you’ve made it through, keep the night going with mini escape games and Zombie Apocalypse Live, or stop by The Hideout: Secret Bar.
Haunted Trails – Climb aboard a hay wagon at Haunted Trails in Old Town Spring, then head into the dark woods on foot as frightening creatures, mortifying scenes, and the spirits haunting the town emerge along the trail.
Houston Terror Dome – Go beyond the haunted house at Houston Terror Dome, where zombies, clowns, a butcher’s shop, a 3D room, and more fill the main attraction with scares. Then keep exploring with Sicko’s and Freako’s Paintball Massacre, Axemania axe throwing, three escape rooms, and more.
Houston Scream Fest – Get your fill of scares at Houston Scream Fest, a month-long Halloween festival where one ticket gets you unlimited access to Sanitarium, Castle of Doom, Casa de la Llorona, and The Graveyard, plus free drinks, including adult beverages.
Boo on the Boardwalk – Kemah Boardwalk goes all-in on Halloween with trick-or-treating, the Little Boo Haunted Fun House, costume contests, live music, movies, crafts, and more throughout October. There will also be special events such as Witches Night Out and Oktoberfest.
Clickbait: A Digital Obsession – Step beyond the screen and explore CLICKBAIT: A Digital Obsession, a first-of-its-kind interactive exhibition that turns the museum into a walkable digital world. Discover 18 large-scale installations exploring social media, AI, deepfakes, and digital identity through hands-on experiences designed for ages 8 to 98.
Kids Events in Houston in October 2026 (16th – 18th September)
Houston Filipino Street Festival – Celebrate Filipino food, music, dance, and culture at this lively festival at Constellation Field, with cultural performances, vendors, games, and plenty to eat. Filipino American singer-songwriter AJ Rafael will be headlining the 2026 entertainment lineup.
Diwali Lights! 2026 – Celebrate Diwali with an afternoon of Indian food, performances, and hands-on cultural activities including Bollywood dancing, diya painting, henna, rangoli, and carrom.
Energy Day – Let the kids get hands-on with STEM at Energy Day, where more than 70 interactive experiments, exhibits, and demonstrations make learning about energy fun.
Mrs. Doubtfire – See Mrs. Doubtfire come to life in a hilarious and heartfelt musical comedy based on the film of the same title about an out-of-work actor who will do anything for his kids.
Disability Comic Con – Head to Disability Comic Con for an inclusive pop culture event designed for people with visible and invisible disabilities, featuring a quiet sensory-friendly area, wheelchair-accessible facilities, flexible pacing, and a judgment-free environment.
Flea by Night – Shop local at Flea by Night at Discovery Green, where you can browse vintage finds, handmade treasures, plants, and one-of-a-kind goods from local makers, artists, and small businesses.
Nigeria Cultural Parade & Festival – Celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Nigeria Cultural Parade & Festival at its new home in Discovery Green, where you can experience the richness and global influence of Nigerian culture.
Image credit: Discovery Green
Screen on the Green: Beetlejuice – Bring a blanket, camping chairs, and snacks for a family movie under the stars at Discovery Green, with games and activities waiting when you arrive early.
Missing Pieces Support Group Life After Loss 5K & Fun Run – Take part in the third annual Life After Loss 5K & Fun Run, a family-friendly event featuring a chip-timed 5K, 1K Fun Run/Walk, and virtual participation option honoring Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness Month.
Texas Renaissance Festival – Step into the 16th century at the nation’s largest and most acclaimed Renaissance theme park, where you can enjoy live entertainment, master artists and craftspeople, food and drinks, hand-powered rides, games, and more than 100 interactive characters.
Image credit: Texas Renaissance Festival
Houston Celebrity Comic Con – Dive into a pop culture celebration packed with cosplay, video and card gaming, workshops, panels, and celebrity autographs. Meet scheduled guests including Susan Sarandon, Geena Davis, Jamie Campbell Bower, Grace Van Dien, Lena Headey, Lou Diamond Phillips, and more.
Mid Main Houston First Thursday Block Party – Head to the Mid Main Houston First Thursday Block Party for Saint Arnold beer, live music, art shows, local vendors, shopping, food, drinks, innovative activations, and more.
Monster Jam – Cheer, scream, and get ready for jaw-dropping stunts as massive Monster Jam trucks and world champion drivers take over for a high-flying day of family fun. Watch trucks including Grave Digger, El Toro Loco, Megalodon, Sparkle Smash, and more.
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Dance of Asian America presents Asia to the World – Experience an evening of breathtaking artistry as Dance of Asian America presents Asia To The World, featuring premiere works from Asia and beyond. Enjoy new choreography and music that blends Eastern and Western influences.
Image credit: Dance of Asian America
Starlight Swan Rides – Glide along the beautifully lit Woodlands Waterway during this seasonal Starlight Swan Boats experience.
Fall Fine Arts Show – Browse paintings, photography, metalworks, sculptures, pottery, and more at this free, one-day art show at Market Street.
CabooseFest: Hooteanny & Hay Rides – Celebrate fall with caboose hayrides, a pumpkin patch, games, a vendor marketplace, pie and chicken wing eating contests, live entertainment, and a screening of Ma and Pa Kettle on an outdoor jumbotron.
Intro to Mosaic Making at Smither Park – Try your hand at mosaic art in an introductory workshop led by veteran Smither Park artists, where you’ll experiment with colors and shapes to create a unique piece to take home.
Zoo Boo – Bring the kids to the Houston Zoo for a Halloween outing filled with pumpkins, seasonal decorations, photo spots, and family-friendly activities, with select evenings adding glowing displays, Spooky Forest, and Ghost Town.
ARTECHOUSE presents Twilight Zone: Hidden Wonders of the Ocean – Take a journey into the mysterious ocean twilight zone through immersive digital art, interactive installations, original music, and extended-reality experiences at ARTECHOUSE. The 24-minute cinematic centerpiece brings the strange creatures and nightly migrations of the deep sea to life.
Phobia Haunted Houses: Kemah Boardwalk – Get ready for a double dose of scares at Kemah Boardwalk, where Phobia Haunted Houses brings two attractions to explore: Doom and Darke Labs.
Redrum Fear Park – Descend into madness at Redrum Fear Park, where four haunted attractions (Cinegore, Twisted Circus, Deadwood Asylum, and Live Industries) deliver plenty of scares alongside three live theatrical performances.
13th Floor Haunted House – Take on three separate haunted attractions at 13th Floor Haunted House, including Jason Universe: Survive the Night, Containment: Sector 9, and Cannibals Crossing. Once you’ve made it through, keep the night going with mini escape games and Zombie Apocalypse Live, or stop by The Hideout: Secret Bar.
Haunted Trails – Climb aboard a hay wagon at Haunted Trails in Old Town Spring, then head into the dark woods on foot as frightening creatures, mortifying scenes, and the spirits haunting the town emerge along the trail.
Houston Terror Dome – Go beyond the haunted house at Houston Terror Dome, where zombies, clowns, a butcher’s shop, a 3D room, and more fill the main attraction with scares. Then keep exploring with Sicko’s and Freako’s Paintball Massacre, Axemania axe throwing, three escape rooms, and more.
Houston Scream Fest – Get your fill of scares at Houston Scream Fest, a month-long Halloween festival where one ticket gets you unlimited access to Sanitarium, Castle of Doom, Casa de la Llorona, and The Graveyard, plus free drinks, including adult beverages.
Boo on the Boardwalk – Kemah Boardwalk goes all-in on Halloween with trick-or-treating, the Little Boo Haunted Fun House, costume contests, live music, movies, crafts, and more throughout October. There will also be special events such as Witches Night Out and Oktoberfest.
Clickbait: A Digital Obsession – Step beyond the screen and explore CLICKBAIT: A Digital Obsession, a first-of-its-kind interactive exhibition that turns the museum into a walkable digital world. Discover 18 large-scale installations exploring social media, AI, deepfakes, and digital identity through hands-on experiences designed for ages 8 to 98.
Kids Events in Houston in October 2026 (23rd – 25th October)
M-K-T Hike, Bike & Fright Fest – Dress up the whole family and head to the M-K-T for a free Halloween celebration with trick-or-treating, live music, DJs, magic, tarot readings, and more.
3rd Annual Mystical Parade of Boo – Watch downtown Galveston come alive with witches, pirates, vampires, colorful floats, and Galveston Mardi Gras Krewes at the Mystical Parade of Boo.
Houston Mediterranean Festival – Celebrate Mediterranean culture and flavors at the Houston Mediterranean Festival with dishes like baklava and kebabs, music of the Mediterranean, plus a marketplace, silent auction, petting zoo, face painting, and balloon artists.
Families with Pride – Celebrate and uplift LGBTQ+ families and allies at Families with Pride, a safe and joyful gathering where families can feel seen, supported, and celebrated.
IGBO Festival – Experience one of the largest West African festivals in the U.S., hosted by Ndi Ichie Cultural Association featuring vibrant masquerades and cultural performances from across the country.
Image credit: IgboFest Houston
Alley Theatre presents Alley All New Festival – Discover bold new voices in American theatre at the Alley All New Festival, a three-day celebration of staged readings. Hear new works spanning imaginative science fiction, family and addiction, cultural tensions, and an Ancient Greek hip-hop-infused opera.
Houston Symphony presents “Hocus Pocus Pops” – Get into the Halloween spirit with the Houston Symphony’s family-friendly Hocus Pocus Pops, featuring spooky favorites, costumes, candy, playful surprises, and magical moments.
Walt Cunningham Angels’ Race for Space – Honor Apollo 7 Astronaut Walt Cunningham by taking part in a 5K that raises funds for Be An Angel and supports special needs children.
Spooky Sprint – Get into the Halloween spirit with the Spooky Sprint 5K, 10K, or Half Marathon, with a virtual race option for those who want to participate from anywhere at any time. Kids ages 10 and under can also join the fun with an untimed kids’ dash.
Mrs. Doubtfire – See Mrs. Doubtfire come to life in a hilarious and heartfelt musical comedy based on the film of the same title about an out-of-work actor who will do anything for his kids.
Zoo Boo – Bring the kids to the Houston Zoo for a Halloween outing filled with pumpkins, seasonal decorations, photo spots, and family-friendly activities, with select evenings adding glowing displays, Spooky Forest, and Ghost Town.
ARTECHOUSE presents Twilight Zone: Hidden Wonders of the Ocean – Take a journey into the mysterious ocean twilight zone through immersive digital art, interactive installations, original music, and extended-reality experiences at ARTECHOUSE. The 24-minute cinematic centerpiece brings the strange creatures and nightly migrations of the deep sea to life.
Phobia Haunted Houses: Kemah Boardwalk – Get ready for a double dose of scares at Kemah Boardwalk, where Phobia Haunted Houses brings two attractions to explore: Doom and Darke Labs.
Redrum Fear Park – Descend into madness at Redrum Fear Park, where four haunted attractions (Cinegore, Twisted Circus, Deadwood Asylum, and Live Industries) deliver plenty of scares alongside three live theatrical performances.
13th Floor Haunted House – Take on three separate haunted attractions at 13th Floor Haunted House, including Jason Universe: Survive the Night, Containment: Sector 9, and Cannibals Crossing. Once you’ve made it through, keep the night going with mini escape games and Zombie Apocalypse Live, or stop by The Hideout: Secret Bar.
Haunted Trails – Climb aboard a hay wagon at Haunted Trails in Old Town Spring, then head into the dark woods on foot as frightening creatures, mortifying scenes, and the spirits haunting the town emerge along the trail.
Houston Terror Dome – Go beyond the haunted house at Houston Terror Dome, where zombies, clowns, a butcher’s shop, a 3D room, and more fill the main attraction with scares. Then keep exploring with Sicko’s and Freako’s Paintball Massacre, Axemania axe throwing, three escape rooms, and more.
Houston Scream Fest – Get your fill of scares at Houston Scream Fest, a month-long Halloween festival where one ticket gets you unlimited access to Sanitarium, Castle of Doom, Casa de la Llorona, and The Graveyard, plus free drinks, including adult beverages.
Boo on the Boardwalk – Kemah Boardwalk goes all-in on Halloween with trick-or-treating, the Little Boo Haunted Fun House, costume contests, live music, movies, crafts, and more throughout October. There will also be special events such as Witches Night Out and Oktoberfest.
Clickbait: A Digital Obsession – Step beyond the screen and explore CLICKBAIT: A Digital Obsession, a first-of-its-kind interactive exhibition that turns the museum into a walkable digital world. Discover 18 large-scale installations exploring social media, AI, deepfakes, and digital identity through hands-on experiences designed for ages 8 to 98
Kids Events in Houston in October 2026 (30th October – 1st November)
Houston Congenital Heart Walk – Bring the family together for the Houston Congenital Heart Walk, a community 5K-style event supporting congenital heart defect research. Along with the walk, expect activities, entertainment, and opportunities to learn more about the cause.
Houston Symphony presents “Haunted Halloween” – Dress the kids up and bring along a Jack-O-Lantern for a Halloween morning with the Houston Symphony, complete with spooky music and trick-or-treating inside the concert hall.
Trick or Treat at the 1838 Menard House – Take the kids trick-or-treating at one of Galveston’s oldest historic homes, where costumed witches will be waiting with treats on the porch.
5th Annual Island Boo Fest – Saengerfest Park becomes a Halloween playground during Island Boo Fest, where families can trick-or-treat from creatively decorated golf carts throughout downtown Galveston. Add costumes, prizes, music, and family activities, and you have an easy afternoon of Halloween fun.
3rd Annual Nutcracker Market – Get a jump on Christmas shopping at the Nutcracker Market at South Shore Harbour Resort, where vendors offer gifts, boutique finds, home décor, and holiday treats. Festive decorations, ballerinas, Santa, and free totes will be available for the first 100 shoppers.
Dia De Los Muertos – Day of the Dead – Celebrate Día de los Muertos at Kemah Boardwalk with mariachi, folklórico dancing, crafts, kids’ activities, and a costume contest inspired by the holiday.
Wings Over Houston Airshow – Watch the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds and NASA “Freedom 250” F-5s headline the 42nd CAF Wings Over Houston Airshow at Ellington Airport, alongside rare Vietnam-era warbirds, aerial performances, vintage and modern aircraft displays, and the Legends & Heroes tent.
Image credit: Wings Over Houston Airshow
The Wiz – Follow Dorothy’s journey in The Wiz, the Tony® Award-winning musical that puts a soulful, gospel, rock, and ’70s funk spin on The Wizard of Oz.
Scream on the Green – Get ready for a frightfully fun night at Scream on the Green, featuring a popular costume contest, living sculptures, games, spooky music, photo opportunities, and more.
Image credit: Discovery Green
Día de los Muertos – Honor and remember loved ones at Día de los Muertos by bringing a copy of a photo or keepsake to add to Houston artist Angel Quesada’s stunning community ofrenda.
Image credit: Discovery Green
Bacement Foundation for the Arts presents Dancin’ in the Street … Thriller on the Hill – Get ready for a one-night-only R&B party featuring live performances, live DJ sets, and nonstop celebrations of the greatest R&B classics and legends.
Houston Symphony presents “Haunted Halloween” – Join the haunted Houston Symphony for a morning of boo-tiful tunes and fang-tastic favorites as the musicians perform in full costume. Kids and families can come dressed for Halloween and bring their Jack-O-Lanterns for in-hall trick-or-treating.
6th Annual Dia de los Muertos Parade & Fiesta – Honor and celebrate the memories of loved ones at this vibrant Día de los Muertos Parade & Fiesta, where families, community members, dancers, musicians, decorated floats, and creative costumes will fill the celebration.
Movies at Miller: Haunted Mansion – Celebrate Halloween night with Haunted Mansion, a 2023 horror comedy about a widowed doctor and her young son who discover their suspiciously affordable New Orleans mansion is filled with supernatural roommates.
Galaxy Frights – Combine Halloween with space exploration at Galaxy Frights, where families can trick-or-treat, explore pop-up science labs, meet special guests, and take spooky photos around Space Center Houston.
Zoo Boo – Bring the kids to the Houston Zoo for a Halloween outing filled with pumpkins, seasonal decorations, photo spots, and family-friendly activities, with select evenings adding glowing displays, Spooky Forest, and Ghost Town.
ARTECHOUSE presents Twilight Zone: Hidden Wonders of the Ocean – Take a journey into the mysterious ocean twilight zone through immersive digital art, interactive installations, original music, and extended-reality experiences at ARTECHOUSE. The 24-minute cinematic centerpiece brings the strange creatures and nightly migrations of the deep sea to life.
Phobia Haunted Houses: Kemah Boardwalk – Get ready for a double dose of scares at Kemah Boardwalk, where Phobia Haunted Houses brings two attractions to explore: Doom and Darke Labs.
Redrum Fear Park – Descend into madness at Redrum Fear Park, where four haunted attractions (Cinegore, Twisted Circus, Deadwood Asylum, and Live Industries) deliver plenty of scares alongside three live theatrical performances.
13th Floor Haunted House – Take on three separate haunted attractions at 13th Floor Haunted House, including Jason Universe: Survive the Night, Containment: Sector 9, and Cannibals Crossing. Once you’ve made it through, keep the night going with mini escape games and Zombie Apocalypse Live, or stop by The Hideout: Secret Bar.
Haunted Trails – Climb aboard a hay wagon at Haunted Trails in Old Town Spring, then head into the dark woods on foot as frightening creatures, mortifying scenes, and the spirits haunting the town emerge along the trail.
Houston Terror Dome – Go beyond the haunted house at Houston Terror Dome, where zombies, clowns, a butcher’s shop, a 3D room, and more fill the main attraction with scares. Then keep exploring with Sicko’s and Freako’s Paintball Massacre, Axemania axe throwing, three escape rooms, and more.
Houston Scream Fest – Get your fill of scares at Houston Scream Fest, a month-long Halloween festival where one ticket gets you unlimited access to Sanitarium, Castle of Doom, Casa de la Llorona, and The Graveyard, plus free drinks, including adult beverages.
Boo on the Boardwalk – Kemah Boardwalk goes all-in on Halloween with trick-or-treating, the Little Boo Haunted Fun House, costume contests, live music, movies, crafts, and more throughout October. There will also be special events such as Witches Night Out and Oktoberfest.
Clickbait: A Digital Obsession – Step beyond the screen and explore CLICKBAIT: A Digital Obsession, a first-of-its-kind interactive exhibition that turns the museum into a walkable digital world. Discover 18 large-scale installations exploring social media, AI, deepfakes, and digital identity through hands-on experiences designed for ages 8 to 98
Want more family adventures beyond this month’s lineup? Check out our full guide to current Houston events and kid-friendly activities happening across the city.
- Fun, Free & Cheap Events | October 16 – October 18 - October 12, 2026
- Houston Highlights: October 12 to October 15 – Food, Music, Arts & More - October 11, 2026
- Best Farm to Table Restaurants in Houston for Fall - October 11, 2026
