Stories for January 2026

Friday, January 30

Give the Gift of a Romantic Getaway to Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg invites couples to celebrate love any time of year and treat their special someone to the timeless appeal and warmth of the Texas Hill Country.

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Real Women Have Curves Opens at Alley Theatre, Celebrating Stories of Strength and Resilience

The Alley Theatre’s production of Real Women Have Curves delivers humor, heart, and timely cultural commentary through February 15, 2026.

Thursday, January 29

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Christian Menefee Earns Workers Defense Action Fund Endorsement Ahead of TX-18 Runoff Amid Immigration Concerns

Workers Defense Action Fund has endorsed former Harris County Attorney Christian D. Menefee in the TX-18 runoff, citing his record of expanding legal protections and services for immigrant communities amid ongoing national immigration enforcement concerns.

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Get to Know Legacy Community Health’s New CEO: Robert Palussek Leads With Purpose, Growth, and Community at the Core

Legacy Community Health is reaffirming its mission that health care is a right under newly appointed CEO Robert Palussek, focusing on responsible growth, affordability, and expanded access across Houston and Southeast Texas.

Wednesday, January 28

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Biden-Era Nursing Home Staffing Regulations Rolled Back After Trump Meetings with Industry Donors

A federal nursing home staffing mandate aimed at improving resident care under Biden was repealed following private meetings between Trump and nursing home executives who had donated to his super PAC.

Tuesday, January 27

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Houston’s February Happenings: Celebrate Love, Friendship, and the Big Game with Goodnight Hospitality

Houston’s Goodnight Hospitality offers a full lineup of February experiences, from Valentine’s Day and Galentine’s Day brunches to Super Bowl catering and Italian prix fixe dinners.

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Dexter McCoy Earns Major Labor Endorsement in Fort Bend County Judge Race

Dexter McCoy receives a major labor endorsement in the Fort Bend County Judge Democratic primary, highlighting his record of supporting workers and community development.

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Young Star King Moore Leads Global Effort to Inspire and Help Children

10-year-old King Moore launches a global youth campaign connecting children through music, service, and cultural exchange

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Remembering the Revolution: Lessons for Today

In a state where towns revisit old stories and cities reel from new ones, America’s 250th asks what it really means to be free.

As America approaches its 250th anniversary, Ben Jealous reflects on the ongoing struggle for liberty, urging that history be remembered and taught as a guide for defending freedom and accountability today.

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Harris Health Tops Out the $2 Billion John M. O’Quinn Hospital — A Defining Moment for Public Health in Harris County

Harris Health celebrated the topping-out of the $2 billion John M. O’Quinn Hospital on January 23, marking a major milestone in Houston’s largest public health investment in decades.

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Song of Love and Death: Julia Bullock Brings Messiaen’s Harawi to Houston in a Rare, Spellbinding Evening

DaCamera brings Olivier Messiaen’s rarely performed masterpiece Harawi to Houston on January 30, featuring Grammy Award–winning soprano Julia Bullock and acclaimed pianist Conor Hanick.

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Houston Takes the Global Stage: Center of the World’s Biggest Events

Join the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region at Its 2026 Annual Membership Banquet

As Houston prepares to host major global sporting events in 2026, the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region’s Annual Membership Banquet will spotlight the infrastructure, workforce, and regional leadership powering the city’s moment on the world stage.

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Showdown for Congressional District 18: Houston’s Voice Nears Its Return at the Ballot Box

Voters in Texas Congressional District 18 head to the polls Saturday to decide who will complete the late Congressman Sylvester Turner’s term, as extended early voting and low turnout heighten the stakes of the runoff.

Monday, January 26

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Bobby Cole Releases Take It Back Agenda Ahead of 2026 Texas Governor’s Race

Democratic gubernatorial candidate Bobby Cole unveiled his Take It Back Agenda, outlining policy priorities on housing, energy, healthcare, education, and cost of living as the 2026 Texas primary approaches.

Thursday, January 22

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5-Year-Old Taken From Minnesota Home Now Detained by ICE in Texas

A 5-year-old Minnesota preschooler was taken by federal agents from his family’s driveway and is now detained with his father at an ICE family facility in Texas, sparking national outrage and conflicting accounts from immigration officials.

Wednesday, January 21

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TDECU Appoints Glenn Applewhite III as Market President for Greater Houston Region

TDECU has named banking veteran Glenn Applewhite III as Market President for Greater Houston, where he will lead strategic growth, strengthen Member relationships, and expand the credit union’s community impact.

Tuesday, January 20

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Houston Arboretum to Host Tapas on the Trails for Valentine’s Day 2026

The Houston Arboretum & Nature Center will host Tapas on the Trails on February 14, offering an evening of food, drinks, and moonlit nature walks to support conservation and education programs.

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Prairie View A&M University Announces New Academic Leadership and Programs

Prairie View A&M University begins 2026 with new leadership appointments and the launch of University College to strengthen student success and academic excellence.

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J.D. Silva & Associates Offers Free Lyft Rides During Houston Rodeo and Barbecue Cook-Off

J.D. Silva & Associates is offering up to 250 free Lyft rides during Houston Rodeo and BBQ Cook-Off week to promote safe driving and prevent impaired driving.

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HBCU Week NOW Student Film Festival to Premiere 10 Award-Winning Short Films on Jan. 27

Ten award-winning short films by HBCU students and recent graduates will premiere January 27 on the HBCU Week NOW YouTube channel, celebrating Black excellence and storytelling across genres.

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Early Voting Begins Jan. 21 for Texas’ 18th Congressional District Runoff Election

Early voting for the Texas 18th Congressional District special runoff election runs from January 21 through January 27 as voters choose a representative to fill the remainder of the late Rep. Sylvester Turner’s term.

Monday, January 19

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Minneapolis Family Tear-Gassed in Crossfire Between ICE and Protesters While Heading Home

A Minneapolis family was trapped in their car amid protests and federal agents, with a tear-gassed infant requiring CPR before being hospitalized.

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Walmart and Wing Launch Drone Delivery Service in Houston

Walmart and Wing have launched their drone delivery service in Houston, offering faster, more efficient delivery of groceries and essentials while making the city one of the first in the nation to adopt this technology.

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AI Attack Ad Escalates Texas Senate Primary as Crockett Responds

An AI-generated attack ad has intensified the Texas U.S. Senate primary, as Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett responds by emphasizing her bipartisan work and statewide voter outreach ahead of the March election.

Friday, January 16

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SER of Puerto Rico Expands Services With $1M Donation From Thomas J. Henry

SER of Puerto Rico celebrates 75 years with expanded medical and rehabilitation services, supported by a $1 million donation from philanthropist Thomas J. Henry.

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Haygood Elementary Opens as Model Campus for Growing Lamar CISD

Haygood Elementary School has opened in Fulshear as the first campus built from Lamar CISD’s new elementary prototype design to support rapid enrollment growth.

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Space Center Houston Appoints Keesha Bullock as Chief Operating and Strategy Officer

Space Center Houston has appointed Keesha Bullock as its new Chief Operating and Strategy Officer, a newly created role supporting long-term growth, operations, and visitor experience.

Thursday, January 15

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Juliet HTX Steakhouse Valentine’s Day Dining with Live Music

Juliet HTX Steakhouse offers a Thursday night dining experience with live saxophone music and a $59.95 three-course menu, making it a laid-back option for Valentine’s Day.

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Harris County Attorney’s Office Accepting Applications for 2026 Summer Legal Academy

The Harris County Attorney’s Office is accepting applications for its 2026 Summer Legal Academy, a two-week program introducing high school students to careers in law and the legal system

Wednesday, January 14

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Houston Small Business Spotlight: Scentify Essence Turns Fragrance into Moments of Calm and Connection

Houston-based Scentify Essence transforms everyday spaces into mindful sanctuaries with hand-poured candles, luxury diffusers, and intentional fragrance experiences.

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Dr. Audrey Nath Files for Houston City Council District C Special Election

The special election for Houston City Council District C is shaping up to be competitive.

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Fort Bend County Judge Race Heats Up as Dexter McCoy Reports $1M Cash on Hand

The 2026 Fort Bend County Judge race is intensifying as Commissioner Dexter McCoy reports strong fundraising and a growing field of candidates ahead of key voting dates.

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Honoring Dr. King Means Governing for Economic Justice

MLK Day Challenges Us to Govern for Economic Dignity

MLK Day must be more than remembrance—it should be a governing test of whether Harris County will treat economic dignity as a civil right by confronting the affordability crisis facing working families.

Tuesday, January 13

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Give the Gift of Gucci This Valentine’s Day in Houston

Celebrate Valentine’s Day in Houston with Gucci’s 2026 Gift Guide, featuring luxury handbags, jewelry, shoes, and more.

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Fort Bend’s Future on the Ballot: A County Judge Race That Reflects a County on the Rise

Fort Bend County’s 2026 County Judge race features a historic, highly diverse field of candidates as voters prepare for early voting ahead of the Super Tuesday Primary.

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Cadillac Nears Formula 1 Debut with Special Edition Testing Livery

Cadillac is moving closer to its Formula 1 debut with the unveiling of a Special Edition testing livery ahead of preseason shakedown runs and the season-opening Australian Grand Prix.

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Houston Texans Name Scott Shepherd Chief Revenue Officer

The Houston Texans have named veteran sports executive Scott Shepherd as chief revenue officer to lead the team’s commercial and revenue growth efforts.

Monday, January 12

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AARP Texas Opens Applications for 2026 Community Challenge Grants

AARP Texas is now accepting applications for its 2026 Community Challenge Grants, offering funding for Houston-area projects that improve livability, accessibility, and community resilience for residents of all ages.

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Holocaust Museum Houston Offers Free Admission on International Holocaust Remembrance Day

Houstonians can honor Holocaust victims on International Holocaust Remembrance Day, January 27, 2026, with free admission to Holocaust Museum Houston, featuring permanent galleries, survivor testimony, and the special exhibition Anachronous.

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Texas Southern University Becomes First Texas HBCU to Earn Prestigious Carnegie Community Engagement Classification

Texas Southern University becomes the first Texas HBCU to earn the prestigious Carnegie Community Engagement Classification, recognizing its deep commitment to community partnerships, research, and public impact.

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We Must Finish the Work Dr. King Died Doing

To honor Martin Luther King Jr. honestly is to remember that he was organizing to make the dream real — and to decide whether we are willing to carry that dangerous, unfinished work forward.

This Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we honor Dr. King’s legacy by remembering his final mission: uniting poor and working people across racial lines to demand economic justice, a fight that remains urgent today.

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Houston’s Mardi Gras Shines at KREWE de HOU Ball

Houston’s Mardi Gras comes alive January 24, 2026, as the KREWE de HOU Foundation hosts its Third Annual Mardi Gras Ball, featuring a James Bond–inspired theme, live DJ, silent auction, and the crowning of the 2026 Royal Court.

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Detroit Auto Show 2026 Charity Preview: Where Motown, Mobility, and Meaning Collide

The Detroit Auto Show’s iconic Charity Preview returns January 16, 2026, launching its milestone season with a black-tie celebration featuring Robin Thicke, Detroit legends, and a powerful commitment to children’s charities.

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Powerhouse Mix of Stars: 2026 RODEOHOUSTON® Lineup Delivers a Standout Season of Sound, Soul, and Houston Pride

RODEOHOUSTON returns March 2–22, 2026, with a powerhouse Star Stage lineup at NRG Stadium featuring global superstars, legendary favorites, and exciting first-time performers.

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Feed the Soul Foundation Serves Up Solutions at Houston’s Third Annual Global Culinary Conference

Feed the Soul Foundation’s Third Annual Global Culinary Conference returns to Houston January 25–27, 2026, bringing chefs and food entrepreneurs together for three days of business training, innovation, and growth at Rice University.

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Human Trafficking Has No Place in Texas — and Houston Is Standing Guard

As Texas observes Human Trafficking Prevention Month, state and local leaders are strengthening prevention, education, and survivor support to confront one of the most urgent human rights crises facing communities like Houston.

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A Night of Poetry, Prestige, and Purpose: Houston Public Library Hosts Robert Burns’ Supper Honoring Inaugural Fellows

Houston Public Library will host its Inaugural Robert Burns’ Supper on January 22, 2026, celebrating global literary tradition while installing the first-ever Fellows of the Houston Public Library.

Thursday, January 8

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Harris County Names Jonathan Fombonne as Next County Attorney Following Menefee’s Transformative Tenure

Jonathan Fombonne has been appointed Harris County Attorney, succeeding Christian Menefee and continuing the office’s focus on progressive, effective public law.

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Bruno Mars Brings ‘The Romantic Tour’ to Houston’s NRG Stadium

Bruno Mars will bring his first global headline stadium tour in nearly a decade, The Romantic Tour, to Houston’s NRG Stadium on April 22, 2026, following the release of his new album.

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Harris County Voters 65+ or with Disabilities Can Apply for Annual Ballot by Mail for 2026 Elections

Harris County voters 65+ or with disabilities can now apply for the Annual Ballot by Mail to receive all 2026 election ballots.

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George Lopez Brings the Laughs (and the Truth) to Houston’s Biggest Stage

Comedy legend George Lopez brings his live stand-up show to Houston on Friday, February 6, 2026, at NRG, delivering laughs, truth, and unforgettable storytelling.

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NCA All-Star Nationals Bring the Spirit—and a $150 Million Boost—to Houston

Houston will host the NCA All-Star National Championship for the first time ever, bringing 65,000 athletes and fans downtown February 27–March 1, 2026.

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From Abandoned to Inspired: Edison Cultural Arts Center Opens a New Chapter for Houston’s Creative Future

The Edison Cultural Arts Center officially opened January 5, 2026, transforming a long-vacant space into a vibrant new hub for arts access, education, and community empowerment in Houston.

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Everything You Need to Know About Houston’s Chevron Marathon Weekend — When a ‘Chilly’ Morning Meets a Warm City Spirit

Houston’s iconic Chevron Houston Marathon returns January 9–11, 2026, bringing sold-out races, brisk winter weather, and a citywide celebration of endurance, culture, and community.

Wednesday, January 7

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Commissioner Lesley Briones Announces $33.5 Million in Community Infrastructure Investments for Precinct 4

Commissioner Lesley Briones unveiled $33.5 million in new infrastructure investments in Alief as part of the Places 4 People initiative, spotlighting major upgrades to streets, drainage, and flood mitigation designed to create safer, more resilient neighborhoods across Harris County Precinct 4.

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What to Know About Houston’s 2026 Elections

Houston voters head into 2026 facing an unprecedented election cycle—packed with runoffs, primaries, and special elections—that will shape local, state, and national leadership throughout the year

Tuesday, January 6

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From Houston to History: Discovering Americus, Georgia’s Timeless Southern Soul

From Houston to History: Why Americus, Georgia Is the South’s Best-Kept Secret

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Mary J. Blige Teams with Gabourey Sidibe for Lifetime’s New Film Be Happy

Starring Tisha Campbell, Be Happy Explores Midlife Reinvention and Second Chances

Lifetime premieres Mary J. Blige Presents Be Happy, directed by Gabourey Sidibe, exploring reinvention, love, and midlife transformation.

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The Ensemble Theatre Brings Toni Morrison’s The Bluest Eye to the Stage

The Ensemble Theatre presents a compelling stage adaptation of Toni Morrison’s The Bluest Eye, bringing the landmark novel’s exploration of race, identity, and self-worth to Houston audiences during its 49th season.

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Alley Theatre Presents English: A Heartwarming Comedy About Language and Connection

Alley Theatre in Houston presents English, a witty and moving play by Sanaz Toossi about five Iranians learning English. Performances run February 13–March 8 in the Neuhaus Theatre.

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Don't Take the Bait: Venezuela Is a Distraction from Trump’s Affordability Crisis

Amid rising costs for families, Democrats are urged to stay focused on affordability at home rather than being distracted by Trump’s unilateral actions in Venezuela.

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Huntington Bancshares Expands Capital Markets with Janney Acquisition

Huntington Bancshares strengthens its capital markets and advisory businesses by acquiring three Janney Montgomery Scott business units, adding nearly 140 employees and expanding middle-market investment banking and M&A capabilities

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Texas Nonprofits Unite to Launch Statewide Health and Community Data Network

Healthconnect Texas and the Patient Care Intervention Center are uniting to create a statewide health and community data infrastructure, linking clinical and community insights to improve care, equity, and wellness across Texas.

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One Million Miles of Quiet Excellence: Art Belton and the Power of Showing Up

METRO rail operator Art Belton has safely logged more than one million incident-free miles over a four-decade career, exemplifying the quiet dedication and professionalism that keep Houston moving.

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Don’t Stop: One Houston Woman’s Return to College Proves It’s Never Too Late

HCC Houston Reconnect Scholar shows that persistence, faith, and support can change everything

At age 45, Houston grandmother Roshell Brisby returned to college through HCC’s Houston Reconnect Scholarship, proving it’s never too late to finish your degree and pursue bigger dreams.

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2026 MLK Unity Parade: One City. One Dream. One Powerful March Forward.

The historic MLK Unity Parade returns to Downtown Houston on January 19, 2026, uniting generations, cultures, and communities in a powerful celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy and Houston’s enduring commitment to unity.

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Harris Health Shows Houston How Public Engagement Is Done

Community Voices Shape the Future of Ben Taub Hospital

Harris Health hosted a transparent community town hall in Precinct 2 to discuss the proposed Ben Taub Hospital expansion, inviting public input on a plan aimed at strengthening Houston’s public healthcare system while balancing growth and preservation.

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DACAMERA at the Eldorado: Rising Jazz Stars — Brandon Woody’s Upendo

DACAMERA’s Rising Jazz Stars series brings trumpeter Brandon Woody and his band Upendo to Houston’s historic Eldorado Ballroom for an intimate, choose-what-you-pay jazz performance on January 11, blending world-class talent with deep cultural roots.

Monday, January 5

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Houston’s Furriest Heroes Take the Runway at Wags and Whiskers 2026

Wags and Whiskers 2026 brings Houston’s furriest superheroes to the runway to support IM Houston’s Animeals program for homebound seniors and their pets.

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Honest Mary’s Celebrates Grand Opening of First Houston Location in River Oaks

Honest Mary’s opens its first Houston location in River Oaks with a grand opening celebration featuring complimentary grain bowls, live music, and giveaways.

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Meow Wolf Houston Joins Museums for All to Expand Access for Families

Meow Wolf Houston joins Museums for All, offering $5 admission to EBT cardholders to make immersive art accessible to local families.

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Community Invited to “We Are One” MLK Day of Service Donation Drive in Spring

The “We Are One” MLK Day of Service invites the Houston-area community to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through a donation drive supporting young mothers and individuals experiencing homelessness.

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Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix in Concert Casts a Spell on Houston at Jones Hall

Audiences will enjoy the next chapter of the Harry Potter Film Concert Series as the Houston Symphony performs Nicholas Hooper’s full score live to picture

The Houston Symphony brings the wizarding world to life June 26–27, 2026, with a live orchestral performance of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix while the film plays on a giant screen at Jones Hall.