Family events in La Porte, TX

Settle into a waterfront brunch at Paradise Reef Restaurant inside South Shore Harbour Resort, where marina views pair with live music and $3 mimosas. Savor a full buffet highlighted by made to order omelettes and a laid back pace that can linger into the afternoon. Pricing is $29.95 for adults and $15 for children ages 6 to 12, with little ones 5 and under dining free. Reservations are recommended, and taxes and gratuity are not included.

River Oaks District presents The Market at River Oaks District, presented by Sterling’s Market, a community marketplace featuring a curated selection of fresh, artisan and specialty goods from local vendors. It takes place on the second and fourth Sundays each month. The setting spans The Park, the greenspace in front of Bari, and District Lane, the walkway between Little Hen and LoveShackFancy. Vendors include A&A Cuisine, Cafe Tesoro Mexicano, Cake & Bacon, Castenada Beef, Ethnoza Jewelry, Hive Bee Farm, Mary Ann’s Spaghetti Sauce, Metamorphosis Jewelry, Momma’s Tamales, Patsy’s Chicken Salad, Polska Kielbasa, Sweet Rockin’ Rolls, Tahi Bakehouse and Zozo Fresh. The market is held regardless of weather, with any updates shared on its website or social media. Prospective vendors can apply through Sterling’s Market for consideration.

Savor a full day of flavors and live music at Midtown Park in Houston. Explore more than 50 handpicked food vendors from Texas, Louisiana, and across the nation, with options that include tacos, gumbo, ice cream, vegan burgers, and barbecue. Beyond the food, enjoy activities for everyone and a lineup of local bands performing on stage throughout the day. Chairs are welcome, pets are not permitted, and there is plenty of parking nearby. Most vendors accept cards, though bringing cash is a good idea. Mobile ticket scanning is available. Vendors interested in participating can email GreatStateEvents@gmail.com.

At POST Houston in Houston, the Debbie Murphy Foundation presents a community market that brings together local vendors, first responders, veterans, and families to shop, connect, and support one another. The Rooted in Resilience Fall Market offers handmade and boutique goods, food, and family friendly activities and entertainment. Dedicated healing spaces provide resources for first responders, veterans, and families navigating crisis. A 50/50 raffle and a silent auction with donated items add extra excitement throughout the event. Admission is free, with optional donations welcomed. Funds raised support Debbie Murphy Foundation programs that provide emergency financial relief, trauma informed mental health care, and advocacy for first responders, veterans, and Texas families in crisis.

The aquarium honors Indigenous Peoples' Day with interactive experiences offered throughout the venue. Guests of all ages can take part in animal encounters, storytime with a craft, conservation activities, and educational chats that highlight the enduring contributions of Indigenous cultures to our understanding of wildlife and the environment. Look for the Conservation Booth at the Outdoor Tiger Exhibit, a Reptile Encounter by the Marlin Fountain, Storytime and a craft in the Reel to Real Classroom, an Animal Encounter near the Exhibit Entry, and an Exhibit Chat in Texas Bayou. An exhibit ticket must be purchased in advance to participate in activities that take place within the exhibits.

Designed for the youngest readers, Baby Story Time welcomes little ones up to 18 months for a cozy session featuring interactive props, gentle music, and age-appropriate stories in the library’s Front Meeting Room. A parent or guardian must remain with their child at all times. For details, contact Maria, Baby Time Librarian, at Maria.Aguirre@baytown.org or 281-422-1123, or reach the Library Services Desk at asklibrary@baytown.org or 281-427-7331.

Shape a Halloween character with air dry clay during a hands-on craft session tailored for tweens. The program is designed for ages 6 to 12 and will be held in the front Wilhite Room. Participants in this age group may take part on their own, while a parent or guardian must remain inside the library during the event. For more information, contact Rachelle, Children's Librarian, at Rachelle.Martin@baytown.org or 281-422-1134, or reach the Library Help Desk at AskLibrary@baytown.org or 281-427-7331.

This casual chess meet-up with the Lake Houston Chess Club welcomes players of all ages and skill levels. Please bring a board for friendly games and conversation.

Designed for preschoolers, this storytime blends engaging tales, playful props, and lively music to spark imaginations. Children ages 3 and up are welcome. The program takes place in the Front Meeting Room at the library. For more information, contact Rachelle Martin, Children’s Librarian, at Rachelle.Martin@baytown.org or 281-422-1134, or reach the Library Services Desk at asklibrary@baytown.org or 281-427-7331. Children must remain with a parent or guardian at all times.

Presented by Skechers, this grand opening celebrates the launch of a new community farmers market in the Bear Creek area. Visitors can explore farm fresh produce, plants and flowers, and a range of artisan goods while enjoying live music. The atmosphere is family friendly and welcoming to pets, with a lineup of award winning vendors. Admission and parking are free. It is an opportunity to shop local, meet dedicated vendors, and support small businesses with the support of Your Neighborhood Farmers Market Association.

At Manvel Public Library, preschoolers can take part in a storytime featuring stories, songs, rhymes, and a craft, all tied to a different theme each week. The program is designed for children ages 3 to 5, and each session is limited to 35 participants.

Little ones can enjoy a lively bilingual story time at the library, featuring engaging props, singalong music, and stories shared in English and Spanish. The program is intended for children ages 5 and under and takes place in the Front Meeting Room. A parent or guardian must remain with each child throughout the program. For details, contact Diana, Programming and Outreach Technician, at diana.acosta@baytown.org or 281-422-1123, or reach the Library Services Desk at asklibrary@baytown.org or 281-427-7331.

Kids can team up for a gaming session centered on the Switch, with group play that encourages new friendships. Equipment will be available, including a Switch and controllers, and personal devices are welcome. Light refreshments are provided. This program is designed for children ages 5 to 12. It is offered on the second Wednesday of each month.

Toddlers can clap, stomp, and explore rhythm in a lively session focused on body percussion and fine motor skills. Activities include dancing, singing, stories, and playful props that help channel morning energy in a fun, age-appropriate way. Designed for children 18 months to 3 years, each session is held at the Manvel Library and is limited to 35 participants. If weekdays are difficult, follow-up Saturday sessions are available.

Celebrate the season with a cozy story time surrounded by pumpkins. Families can enjoy read-alouds and simple autumn activities, along with plenty of charming photo opportunities among the patch. This gathering takes place at Living Hope Baytown. For additional information, contact Children’s Librarian Rachelle Martin at Rachelle.Martin@baytown.org or 281-422-1147, or reach the Library Help Desk at AskLibrary@baytown.org or 281-427-7331.

Thursday evenings at Odin’s Place feature casual Pokémon nights with a different focus each week. The first Thursday of the month is dedicated to Pokémon Trade Nights. The second to last Thursday centers on Gym Leader Challenges. The last Thursday spotlights top play such as League Challenges and other mid-scale events, with offerings that may vary by season. Pokémon Professors are available to share all the details.

Outdoor fall mini photography sessions at The Little Ranch Farm in Santa Fe, Texas offer a cozy autumn backdrop for families and milestones. Sessions are designed to be quick and enjoyable, highlighting real moments among colorful leaves and seasonal textures. Each reservation includes a 10 minute session, eight professionally edited digital images, and a print release, and can accommodate up to six people. The session fee is $250, with an optional upgrade to receive the full gallery for $350. This format works well for family portraits, couples, children, maternity, seniors, and fall or holiday card photos. Availability is limited.

Boo on the Boardwalk returns to Kemah Boardwalk for its 25th year, filling October weekends with spooky fun, live entertainment, and family friendly Halloween activities. Families can explore the Little Boo Haunted Fun House, decorated for playful chills and surprises, and hours are subject to change. Children can trick or treat at retail shops throughout the Boardwalk. Fridays feature a Halloween movie. Saturdays bring Ocktoberfest, a Halloween DJ and live music in the Main Plaza, a kids costume contest, animal shelter adoptions, children’s crafts, a balloon artist, a towering monster stilt walker, and a special Witches Night Out. Sundays keep the celebration going with Ocktoberfest, a Halloween DJ, live music, and freaky food eating contests. On Halloween day, look for kids spooky crafts and activities, a balloon artist, a DJ in the Main Plaza, a kids Halloween costume contest, and a performance by the Boogie Man Band at 3 Spot. For those seeking bigger scares, PHOBIA Haunted House offers two haunted attractions throughout October. To help keep the atmosphere welcoming, adults are asked to avoid scary masks, costumes, and props. Guests wearing them may be asked to remove items or return props to their vehicles, and costumed actors on the Boardwalk will be available for family friendly photos.

Friday Night Street Night offers the chance to line up against friends in your own vehicle in a legal, controlled environment. No racecar or prior experience is required. Admission is $20 for adults, kids ages 6 to 12 are $5, and children 5 and under are free.

Glide along Armand Bayou on a pontoon cruise for a peaceful look at the wetlands surrounding Armand Bayou Nature Center in Pasadena, Texas. Take in shoreline scenery and watch for local wildlife such as herons, alligators warming themselves along the banks, and native plants. Morning cruises are offered on Saturdays, with sunset tours available on Saturdays and Sundays. Capacity is capped at 16 passengers per trip.

Hosted by NOVA VITA Mental Wellness Center, this first annual fun run celebrates Mental Health Awareness Month with a 5K and a Kids 1K. The route begins and ends at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church. Taking part is a meaningful way to support the community and promote mental wellness. Packet pick up will be available at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church.

Learn about snakes at the Old Pearland Farmers Market in Independance Park. This educational focus gives market visitors a chance to understand more about these reptiles while exploring the market.

Families can enjoy a two-day Fall Classic filled with coed softball and plenty of extras. Recreational and competitive teams take the field, executives square off in a Hall of Fame matchup, and heavy hitters step up for a home run derby. Children have a dedicated play area, and Derricks and Diamonds spirit teams add to the energy. Donor support powers the tournament, and coed rosters of nine to fifteen players are eligible to enter. Additional details are available by email at derricksanddiamonds@nov.com.

Houston Celebrity Comic Con fills NRG Center, Hall A with a weekend-long celebration of TV, movies, anime, gaming, and comics. The convention features appearances by notable guests, opportunities for autographs and photo ops, and a lineup of panels. A sprawling vendor hall offers collectibles, merchandise, and original art, alongside a gaming and esports area. Cosplay takes the spotlight in an energetic contest, and the schedule includes advance screenings, sneak previews, and other special events.

This first annual car show at Runge Park features live music, a pin-up contest, food and vendors. Highlights include 74 and older entries and a lineup of hot rods, customs, bikes and mini bikes.

On the first and third Saturday of each month, explore the museum collection, see WWII aircraft up close, and speak with the crew. It is free and family friendly.

Presented by the Houston Hockey Community, this community sports celebration turns the newly resurfaced rink in La Porte into a full day of family-friendly recreation. Street hockey, pickleball, and roller hockey share the spotlight with sessions tailored to different ages and skill levels. Street hockey for kids offers instruction, skill-building, and games. Pickleball features lessons, drills, and opportunities for open play. Roller hockey adds drills, games, and open play as well. All activities are drop-in, allowing participants to come and go during the designated activity windows without committing to an entire session, and drills and games will be available throughout each block. The experience also includes a bounce house, food and beverage vendors, and participation from local businesses and community partners. Vendor spots are still available; all vendor inquiries must be directed to jesse-ann@houstonhockey.org, and solicitations should not be posted in event comments.

This Saturday session at Manvel Public Library invites toddlers to move, make rhythms, and build early skills through body percussion, songs, stories, and playful props. Designed for children 18 months to 3 years, it encourages active participation while supporting fine motor development. Capacity is limited to 35 participants per session. Thursday sessions of Movers & Shakers are also offered.

A collaboration between Friends For Life and Gillman Subaru, #BARKtoberfest celebrates Subaru Loves Pets and focuses on finding loving homes for local animals. Hosted at Gillman Subaru Southwest in Houston, this adoption-focused gathering highlights support for pets in need. More details will be shared.

Energy Day 2026 brings the country’s largest free STEM celebration for families to Sam Houston Park in Houston. More than 50 interactive exhibits, hands on activities, and live demonstrations encourage curiosity in science, technology, engineering, and math. The festival attracts over 15,000 people each year, celebrating tomorrow’s innovators and helping students and families discover career pathways in energy and STEM. Admission is free and open to all ages, welcoming students and educators.

Dogs are welcome at Barktoberfest, a pet-friendly gathering for pups and their people. Bring your canine companion for a friendly outing.

At Emerald Bowl in Houston, a bowling tournament welcomes participants of all ages. Teams of four compete in a nine-pin, no-tap format. The tournament includes three games and shoe rental. A Halloween costume contest and trick or treating are part of the festivities, and winners must be present to receive prizes. Awards will be presented at the end of the tournament.

At UHCL Bayou Theater, a radiant staging of Sleeping Beauty blends classical ballet with innovative lighting to create a vivid, storybook world. Six local dancers perform elegant choreography in illuminated costumes that heighten every step and turn, reimagining the beloved tale through a contemporary visual lens while honoring traditional technique. Suitable for ages 5 and up, with children under 16 accompanied by an adult. The venue is ADA compliant. Seating is first come within each zone, so early arrival can help with selecting seats in your area.

At the Saint Joseph Catholic Church Fall Festival, THE FAB 5 performs an all-ages outdoor show. The event is free and features food, vendors, and raffle tickets that support this historic church in the historic Sixth Ward downtown. The band presents beloved hits from the 1960s and 1970s, offering plenty of danceable classics.

Trunk or Treat at the ballpark has been rescheduled at Bayside Area Little League to avoid conflicts with other local events so more Bayside families can attend. Plans remain the same with decorated vehicle trunks, candy, costumes, baseball friends, and a festive evening at the ballpark. Families and board members are still needed to bring a decorated vehicle and hand out candy, whether kept simple or made elaborate. Anyone who previously signed up is asked to confirm that the updated date still works.

Villa Albertine’s Films on the Green brings a free public screening of Pascal Chaumeil’s romantic comedy Heartbreaker (L’Arnacoeur) to Alliance Française de Houston, presented in collaboration with the host organization and in recognition of 250 years of French American relations. The story follows Alex, a professional specialist in ending relationships, who is hired to stop the engagement of heiress Juliette to the man she adores. With only ten days to succeed, he pushes his talents to the limit, even picking up Dirty Dancing inspired moves, and uses charm and quick thinking to chip away at Juliette’s resolve. Starring Vanessa Paradis, Romain Duris and Andrew Lincoln, the film is directed by Pascal Chaumeil, distributed by Swank Motion Pictures and IFC Films, runs about 1 hour 45 minutes, was released in 2010, and was produced in France, Monaco and the United States. The screening is presented in French with English subtitles. Admission is free.