12 Exciting Activities To Enjoy In Houston This January!

Houston, the fourth-largest city in the United States, is buzzing with energy and excitement this January! With its mild winter temperatures, Houston offers an ideal escape from the cold weather elsewhere. From music festivals to sporting events, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this thriving metropolis. Get ready to kick off the new year with these 12 exciting activities to enjoy in Houston this January!

Ice Skating at Discovery Green

Characteristic	Description
Name	Discovery Green
Type	Park in Houston, Texas
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 18,631
Address	1500 McKinney St, Houston, TX 77010
Phone	(713) 400-7336
Hours	Wednesday - 6 AM–11 PM Thursday - 6 AM–11 PM Friday - 6 AM–11 PM Saturday - 6 AM–11 PM Sunday - 6 AM–11 PM Monday - 6 AM–11 PM Tuesday - 6 AM–11 PM
Profiles

Houston, Texas may not be known for its winter wonderland festivities, but that doesn't mean you can't enjoy a little winter fun in the city. One of the best ways to experience the chillier side of Houston is by going ice skating at Discovery Green.

Discovery Green is a 12-acre park located in the heart of downtown Houston, and it offers a range of activities for visitors year-round. During the winter months, the park transforms into a winter wonderland complete with an outdoor ice skating rink. Open every day, ice skating at Discovery Green is a great way to get outside and enjoy the cooler temperatures while having fun with friends and family.

But what makes ice skating at Discovery Green so unique? For starters, the rink is made from recycled water, making it an environmentally friendly way to enjoy winter sports. The ice is smooth and well-maintained, so you can glide around with ease. And the rink is surrounded by beautiful lights and holiday decorations, adding to the festive atmosphere.

If you're worried about not having the proper gear or experience, there's no need to fear. The ice skating rink offers rental skates in all sizes, and there are staff members on hand to help you get started if you're a beginner.

But if you're a seasoned pro, the rink offers plenty of space to show off your skills. The rink is open for public skating sessions, but there are also special events and theme nights throughout the season. Catch some live music during Disco on Ice or show off your favorite holiday sweater during the Ugly Sweater Skate.

Admission to the ice skating rink is $11 per person, which includes skate rental. If you have your own skates, admission is only $7. And if you're a frequent visitor, you can purchase a season pass for unlimited skating all winter long.

So if you're looking for a fun and unique way to enjoy Houston in January, head to Discovery Green for some ice skating fun. It's a great way to enjoy the cool weather and get into the holiday spirit, all while being surrounded by the stunning Houston skyline.

Houston Restaurant Weeks (multiple locations)

Houston Restaurant Weeks: A Foodie’s Delight!

January in Houston is a food lover's paradise as the city plays host to the annual Houston Restaurant Weeks. This event, which is held throughout the entire month, is a celebration of Houston’s culinary scene and features some of the city’s finest restaurants and chefs.

Houston Restaurant Weeks started in 2003 as a way to raise money for the Houston Food Bank. Since then, the event has grown to be one of the largest fundraising events in America, raising millions of dollars every year. The event now includes over 250 restaurants, making it one of the largest restaurant weeks in the country.

During Houston Restaurant Weeks, participating restaurants offer prix-fixe menus featuring three-course meals that are not normally available on their regular menus. Prices vary depending on the restaurant, but most offer lunch and brunch menus for $20, and dinner menus for $35 or $45. A portion of the proceeds from each sale goes to the Houston Food Bank.

There is a wide range of cuisine available during Houston Restaurant Weeks, from classic French to contemporary American to Asian Fusion. Some notable participating restaurants include Damian’s Cucina Italiana, McCormick & Schmick's, Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille, and Tony’s.

If you’re after seafood, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Brennan’s of Houston offers a jumbo lump crab cake as an entree, while Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse has a Maine lobster bisque. And if you're a fan of Mexican food, you should head to Hugo’s, where you can indulge in a mole de olla or Chiles Rellenos.

Houston Restaurant Weeks is not only a great opportunity to try out the city’s diverse culinary scene but also to give back to the community. Just by enjoying some good food, you are helping to feed Houstonians in need through the Houston Food Bank.

So whether you're a seasoned Houstonian or a first-time visitor, don't miss out on Houston Restaurant Weeks. Indulge in some of the city's top cuisine while giving back to a great cause.

MLK Day Parade in Midtown

The month of January in Houston is jam-packed with exciting events and celebrations. One of the most anticipated events in Houston during the month of January is the MLK Day Parade in Midtown.

The MLK Day Parade is a celebration held annually in honor of one of the most prominent activists for the civil rights movement, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The parade is held on the third Monday of January, which is the same day as Martin Luther King Day. This year, the parade will be held on January 18, 2021.

The MLK Day Parade in Midtown is a vibrant and colorful event that brings together people from all walks of life to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. King. The parade route begins at San Jacinto Street and Elgin Street and proceeds through the heart of Midtown. The parade usually starts at around 10 AM and goes on until noon.

The parade features a variety of floats, marching bands, drill teams, and dance groups who showcase their talents and pay tribute to Dr. King. It is a family-friendly event that is free and open to the public. Many local organizations participate in the parade, including schools, churches, and businesses.

Apart from the parade, the day is marked with other events and celebrations. Local churches and organizations host tribute events, lectures, and workshops throughout the weekend. The day is usually dedicated to service and community work, and many people use the day to volunteer and give back to their community.

January in Houston is also an excellent time for tourists to explore the city. The bustling and diverse city of Houston is filled with attractions. Visitors can enjoy world-class museums, art galleries, restaurants, and shopping venues. The Houston Zoo and the Space Center Houston are also must-visit places for tourists.

In conclusion, January is an exciting time to be in Houston, with the MLK Day Parade in Midtown being one of the highlights of the month. The parade is an opportunity to celebrate and honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and to come together as a community. While in Houston, visitors can also explore the city and enjoy the many attractions it has to offer.

Houston Rockets basketball games

January is an exciting month for the Rockets and their fans as they play a number of big games against the top teams in the league. The Rockets compete in the Western Conference and have to face stiff competition from teams like the Los Angeles Lakers, Denver Nuggets, and the Utah Jazz.

One of the most awaited games of the month for Rockets fans is their matchup against the defending champions, the Los Angeles Lakers. The Lakers are considered one of the top teams in the league with a superstar lineup featuring LeBron James and Anthony Davis. The Rockets and the Lakers have developed a fierce rivalry in recent years, with the Rockets looking to avenge their loss against the Lakers in last year's playoffs.

Another exciting game for Rockets fans is their matchup against the Denver Nuggets, a team that has become a perennial playoff contender in recent years. The Nuggets have one of the best centers in the league, Nikola Jokic, who poses a significant challenge for Rockets' big man, Christian Wood.

Finally, the Rockets also have a game against the Utah Jazz, who have started the season strong with a 4-1 record. The Jazz feature a star duo of Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert and are a strong defensive team, which will be a tough challenge for the Rockets' high-scoring offense.

In conclusion, January is an exciting month for Houston Rockets basketball fans, with the team playing several high-profile games against some of the best teams in the league. The Rockets look to build on their success in the past few seasons and make a deep playoff run this year. With the leadership of coach Mike D'Antoni and the talent of established players like James Harden and new additions like Christian Wood, the Rockets are definitely a team to watch out for this season.

Houston Symphony concerts

The Houston Symphony is one of the most prestigious symphony orchestras in the country, offering a wide range of concerts throughout the year. However, January is an especially exciting time to visit the Symphony as it hosts a number of fantastic concerts that showcase some of its best talent. Here are a few of the upcoming concerts to consider when planning your Houston itinerary.

A Night at the Opera: Jan 14-16, 2022

For those who appreciate the arts, A Night at the Opera is an event that simply can't be missed. This classic concert features a variety of popular operatic selections, performed by some of the top operatic talent in the Houston Symphony. Additionally, the concert features a variety of stunning visual projections and special effects, bringing the music to life in an unforgettable way.

Beethoven & Tchaikovsky: Jan 22-23, 2022

If you're looking for a more classical concert experience, the Beethoven & Tchaikovsky concert is a great choice. This event features some of the most beloved works by these two composers, performed by the Houston Symphony's world-class musicians. From the stirring opening chords to the rousing final movement, this concert is sure to leave you feeling inspired.

The British Invasion: Jan 28-30, 2022

Finally, if you're in the mood for something a little more lighthearted, The British Invasion is the perfect concert for you. This fun and energetic event features a variety of popular British pop hits, performed by the Symphony's talented musicians. With everything from The Beatles to Adele on the setlist, this concert is sure to have you dancing in your seat.

Overall, if you're visiting Houston in January, make sure to add a Houston Symphony concert to your itinerary. Whether you prefer classical music, opera, or pop hits, the Houston Symphony has something for everyone. So come out and enjoy a night of amazing entertainment, and see for yourself why the Houston Symphony is considered one of the best orchestras in the world.

Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Cookoff

Houston in January is a great time to visit the city for many reasons, but one of the biggest attractions during this time is the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Cookoff. This annual event is held every January and brings together some of the best pitmasters in the world to compete for prizes and bragging rights.

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Cookoff is not your average BBQ competition. It is a three-day festival that features live music, food, and carnival rides. Thousands of spectators come to see the cooking competition and enjoy some of the best BBQ in the world. This event is one of the biggest in Houston, and it draws in people from all over the country every year.

The cookoff competition is divided into different categories such as ribs, brisket, and chicken. There is also a category for beans and chili, which allows for some creative dishes to be presented. Each team is given a designated spot in the competition area where they set up their cooking equipment and start preparing their recipes. The competition is fierce, and the teams take it very seriously.

In addition to the competition, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Cookoff also features live music from some of the biggest names in country music. The performances are held in a concert area that is set up specifically for the event. This is another reason why so many people come to Houston in January.

If you are planning a trip to Houston in January, you should make sure to include the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Cookoff on your itinerary. This is an event that you won't want to miss. Whether you are a BBQ enthusiast or just looking for a fun time, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Cookoff has something for everyone. So come and experience the best BBQ Houston has to offer, and enjoy the festivities of this exciting event!

Houston Boat Show

If you're planning to visit Houston in January and are looking for something fun and exciting to do, the Houston Boat Show is definitely worth checking out. Held annually at the NRG Center, the Houston Boat Show is one of the largest boat shows in the country and attracts thousands of visitors each year.

Spanning over several days, the Houston Boat Show is a perfect opportunity for boat enthusiasts to explore the latest and greatest in watercraft technology. From high-end yachts to small fishing boats, there is something to see for everyone at the show.

One of the highlights of the Houston Boat Show is the sheer number of boats on display. From sleek speedboats to luxury yachts, visitors will get to see hundreds of different boats of all shapes and sizes. Many exhibitors also offer interactive displays where attendees can climb aboard and explore the interior of the boats.

But the Houston Boat Show isn't just about boats. There are also several activities and exhibits for visitors to enjoy. Visitors can attend seminars and presentations on a wide range of topics, including fishing techniques, boating safety, and marine conservation. There are also exhibits showcasing marine accessories and equipment, as well as booths selling fishing gear and other boating essentials.

Food and drinks are also available at the Houston Boat Show, with a variety of food vendors and booths offering snacks and refreshments throughout the event.

Tickets to the Houston Boat Show can be purchased online, and range in price depending on the day and time of admission. Discounted tickets are available for children and seniors, and military personnel can attend for free on certain days.

Overall, the Houston Boat Show is a fun and exciting event that is sure to appeal to anyone with an interest in boating and watercraft. Whether you're looking to buy a boat, learn more about the latest marine technology, or just enjoy a day out with family and friends, the Houston Boat Show is definitely worth a visit.

Museum of Fine Arts Houston exhibitions

If you're looking for cultural attractions in Houston in January, the Museum of Fine Arts Houston should definitely be on your list. This iconic museum boasts a vast collection of art, with exhibitions ranging from ancient civilizations to contemporary works of art.

One notable exhibition currently on display is called "Kindred Spirits: Louise Nevelson & Dorothy Hood." This exhibition brings together two powerful female artists of the 20th century, highlighting their unique practice and artistic achievements. The exhibition showcases both artists' works side by side, which juxtapose and highlight the individual style and technique of each artist.

Another exhibition worth seeing is "Cambodian Buddhist Sculpture." This exhibition is a rare opportunity to see a collection of 32 sculptures from the ancient Khmer empire, which date back to the 9th-14th centuries. These sculptures depict various Buddhist deities and offer a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Cambodia.

If you're interested in contemporary art, don't miss "Soul of a Nation: Art in the Age of Black Power 1963-1983". This exhibition celebrates the contribution of black artists to the cultural and political landscape of the United States in the 60s and 70s. With over 60 artists featured, "Soul of a Nation" displays a wide range of media, from paintings and sculptures to photography and performance art.

Finally, the Museum's "Icons of Style: A Century of Fashion Photography" exhibition showcases some of the most iconic images from the past century of fashion photography. This exhibition examines the complex interplay between art, culture, and commerce in the fashion world, and features hundreds of images from world-renowned photographers.

In conclusion, for anyone looking for cultural attractions in Houston in January, the exhibitions at the Museum of Fine Arts Houston are not to be missed. From Louise Nevelson to Cambodian Buddhist Sculpture, from Soul of a Nation to Icons of Style, the variety and quality of the exhibits are staggering. Head over to this iconic museum to experience some of the most exquisite art ever created.

Houston Astros FanFest at Minute Maid Park

Are you a fan of the Houston Astros? If so, mark your calendar for the annual Houston Astros FanFest at Minute Maid Park. Taking place in mid-January, this event celebrates the upcoming baseball season and brings fans closer to the team they love.

During the FanFest, attendees will have the opportunity to meet current and former players, participate in interactive exhibits and games, and even take part in on-field activities. The event has something for fans of all ages, making it a great family outing.

One highlight of the event is the chance to take a tour of Minute Maid Park. Fans can see behind the scenes of the ballpark, including the locker rooms, dugouts, and even the press box. As you walk through the stadium, you'll feel the excitement of getting ready for the new season.

Another exciting part of FanFest is the opportunity to get autographs from your favorite players. Many players attend the event and create lines where fans can get their memorabilia signed. Do you have a glove, cap, or ball that you would love to get autographed? Bring it along, and you might just get the signature you're looking for!

In addition to autographs, there are plenty of other activities to keep you busy all day. Test your throwing speed, practice your batting skills, or try to hit a home run in the fan-friendly batting cages. There are also photo opportunities with players and the World Series trophies.

If you're feeling hungry during the event, there are many food options available. From classic ballpark hot dogs to specialty menu items, you're sure to find something that will satisfy your taste buds. Be sure to check out the Astros Team Store as well, where you can buy official team merchandise to show your Astros pride.

Overall, Houston Astros FanFest is a must-visit event for any baseball fan. With plenty of activities and opportunities to meet your favorite players, it's sure to be a fun day for the whole family. Make sure you mark your calendar for mid-January and get ready to celebrate the start of a new baseball season!

Houston International Gem & Jewelry Show

If you're in Houston in January and looking for a special event to attend, the Houston International Gem & Jewelry Show is an event you don't want to miss. Gem aficionados and jewelry enthusiasts from all over the world flock to the show, which features beautifully crafted pieces at incredible prices.

With over 150 exhibitors displaying a vast array of jewelry made from different kinds of gems and precious metals, there's something for everyone at the Houston International Gem & Jewelry Show. Whether you're looking for elegant bracelets, dazzling necklaces, or breathtaking earrings, you're sure to find a piece that fits your style and budget.

One of the most intriguing aspects of the show is the presence of so many unique and rare gemstones. You'll be able to see and purchase gemstones that are difficult to find anywhere else, such as alexandrite, morganite, and tsavorite. The range of colors, sizes, and cuts available is truly impressive.

You'll also be able to meet with jewelry designers and learn about the latest trends in the industry. Designers are always on hand to answer your questions and help you find the right piece to suit your personality or occasion.

In addition to the jewelry on display, the Houston International Gem & Jewelry Show also features gemstone and jewelry-making classes, where you can learn and hone your skills in creating beautiful pieces of jewelry. These classes are led by experienced teachers who will guide you through the entire process, from selecting the right gemstones to putting the finishing touches on your creation.

The Houston International Gem & Jewelry Show is held every January at the NRG Center in Houston, Texas. It's a four-day event, so you'll have plenty of time to explore the many exhibitors and attend the classes. Admission is reasonable, and you can purchase tickets online or at the door.

In summary, the Houston International Gem & Jewelry Show is a unique event that has something to offer to everyone. Whether you're a jewelry collector, designer, or just appreciator, you'll find something of interest here. It's a perfect opportunity to learn, network and shop for the finest jewelry at unbeatable prices. So mark your calendar for the next show and make sure to be there!

Houston Auto Show

The Houston Auto Show is an annual event that takes place every January in the city of Houston. This event brings together car enthusiasts and industry experts to showcase the latest designs and technologies in the automotive industry.

The Houston Auto Show is the perfect place for car enthusiasts to get up close and personal with the latest offerings from some of the biggest names in the industry. From luxury automakers like Audi and BMW to American giants like Ford and Chevrolet, there is something for everyone at this event.

Visitors to the Houston Auto Show can explore a wide range of vehicles, from compact cars to heavy-duty trucks and SUVs. Attendees can also speak with auto industry professionals to learn more about the latest trends and innovations in the automotive world.

One of the highlights of the Houston Auto Show is the interactive exhibits, which allow visitors to get an inside look at some of the latest automotive technologies. For example, attendees can test out the latest safety features, like collision avoidance systems and lane departure warnings. Other interactive exhibits include virtual reality experiences and driving simulators.

The Houston Auto Show also features a number of special events and activities, such as appearances by celebrity guests and performances by local musicians. There are also food and beverage vendors on hand to keep attendees fueled up and ready to enjoy all the show has to offer.

For car enthusiasts and industry professionals alike, the Houston Auto Show is a must-attend event. With so much to see and do, it's no wonder that thousands of people flock to Houston every January to experience the latest and greatest in the automotive industry.

Houston Health and Wellness Fest

Houston, the fourth-largest city in the United States, has a lot in store for visitors and residents throughout the year. In January, Houston Health and Wellness Fest takes center stage, bringing together wellness enthusiasts from across the country to participate in various activities and improve their physical and mental health.

The festival runs for several days and features a variety of activities that cater to different interests. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of wellness activities, including yoga classes, massage, meditation, healthy cooking demonstrations, and wellness seminars by experts in the field.

The festival also provides visitors with the opportunity to interact with health and wellness companies from around the country. Exhibitors showcase their latest products and services in the health and wellness sector, offering visitors a chance to sample and purchase them.

Furthermore, the Houston Health and Wellness Fest hosts a series of informative workshops and lectures throughout the event. These workshops are primarily intended to educate attendees on the latest trends and research in the field of wellness.

Besides the wellness events, Houston itself is an excellent place to visit in January. The mild winter weather allows visitors to explore the city's beautiful parks, museums, and other attractions. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk in Hermann Park, an interactive educational experience at the Houston Museum of Natural Science, or a performance at the renowned Houston Grand Opera.

In conclusion, Houston Health and Wellness Fest is an exceptional opportunity for individuals interested in health and wellness to learn, connect, and explore. Experience the latest innovations in the wellness industry, interact with experienced professionals in the sector, and get inspired to lead a healthier lifestyle. January is a great time to visit Houston and be a part of this fascinating event.

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