As the heat of Houston summer mellows into crisp evenings and golden afternoons, the city blossoms with cozy, family‑friendly fall events. From outdoor festivals to cultural celebrations and natural wonders, here are the top activities to make your autumn in Houston unforgettable — with plenty that won’t cost a dime.
1. ArBOOretum Family Festival – Houston Arboretum & Nature Center
What: A hit among families, this October fest features pumpkin decorating, live animal encounters, carnival swings, food trucks, train rides, and Houston’s only Trick‑or‑Treat Nature Trail.
When: October 18, 2025, 10 am–4 pm.
Cost: Free for members and kids under 3; $20 for others.
2. Scream on the Green® – Discovery Green
What: A beloved free, family‑friendly Halloween event featuring costume contests, living sculptures, palm reading, games, music, and a screening of Beetlejuice!
When: October 25, 2025, 7 pm–10 pm.
Cost: Free
3. Bat Fest! – Houston Arboretum & Nature Center
What: Celebrate local bat species with themed crafts, story time, educational fun, food trucks, and even a community blood drive.
When: September 27, 2025, 10 am–2 pm.
Cost: Free and open to all.
4. Bayou City Art Festival – Memorial Park
What: Explore hundreds of art booths, interactive art projects, live music, and food vendors. Free admission for children under 12.
When: Mid to late October.
Cost: Adult tickets ~$20; kids under 12 enter free.
5. Free Tuesdays at the Houston Zoo
What: Enjoy complimentary admission on the first Tuesday of September, October, and November. A great chance to see rhinos, giraffes, jaguars, and more — with a picnic.
When: First Tuesdays of Sept, Oct, Nov.
Cost: Free, reservation required.
6. Parks & Nature Trails
- Hermann Park: Spot fall colors, ride the pedal boats, explore McGovern Centennial Gardens, or hop on the charming park railroad — an ideal fall family outing.
- Discovery Green: Downtown green space filled with playgrounds, dog runs, public programming, and seasonal events — many of which are free.
- Buffalo Bayou Park: Walk, bike, have a picnic, or let kids roam in the nature play area — absolutely free and always family‑friendly.
- Houston Arboretum & Nature Center: With over five miles of trails and nature exhibits, the arboretum offers self‑guided fall explorations and educational programs—admission is free.
- Terry Hershey Park: A sprawling 6‑mile trail system perfect for biking, running, geocaching, and soaking in fall air.
7. Festivals & Fairs
- Katy Rice Festival: Celebrates Katy’s heritage with live music, food trucks, and a kids zone. Ages 12 and under attend free.
- Fort Bend County Fair & Rodeo: A classic fall fair mixing rodeo thrills, carnival rides, and family fun.
- Zoo Boo at Houston Zoo: Bring the kiddos in costumes to enjoy trick‑or‑treating, a pumpkin patch, and the whimsical Candy Cave.
- Sugar Land Fall Fest: Town Square comes alive with hayrides, live music, and autumn vibes — a short drive from downtown.
8. Miller Outdoor Theatre – Hermann Park
What: Pack a picnic and experience enchanting, free outdoor performances under fall skies — an artsy yet relaxed way to enjoy Houston’s creativity.
9. Special Fall Events
- Houston Fleet Week (November 5–12, 2025): Celebrate with naval ship tours, band performances, a Veterans Day parade, and a community block party. Most events are free, though some may require reservations.
- Shipley Do‑Nuts Dash (October 18): A fun 10K, 5K, or kids dash at Sam Houston Race Park — includes a free doughnut and coffee for participants, with proceeds supporting children in need.
Fall in Houston: Why It’s Special
Houston’s fall may not boast New England’s foliage, but the city more than makes up with delightful festivals, outdoor culture, and inclusive events that bring communities together. With many venues offering free admission and family-friendly programming, autumn becomes a time of joy, exploration, and unforgettable memories.
Whether you’re wandering the winding trails of the Arboretum, jamming at a park concert, or watching naval ships glide into port, this fall in Houston is full of heart, laughter, and surprises — without emptying your wallet.