A Houston Mom’s Guide to June

Ready or not, it’s officially SUMMA-TIME in Houston. School is out for many families across our area, and with that comes the inevitable refrain of “Mommy, I’m so BORED!” Well, never fear, Houston Moms Blog is here to help you fill those days and nights with family-friendly happenings from The Woodlands down to Galveston and every place in between. Summer is a great time to step away from your normal comfort zone of activities, and boy, do we have a list for you! So pack up your sunscreen, bug spray, snacks, and water {or adult refreshments as it were}, and hit up all the HOT spots this June. Pun fully intended.

One HOT venue you don’t want to miss this summer is this month’s fantastic sponsor Splashway Water Park, located just about an hour west of town in Sheridan, TX. I personally can’t wait to grab some friends and head over to their amazing grounds for a day {or even a night!} to remember. That’s right, they even have cabins, tents, and RV hook-ups on the premises so your family fun doesn’t have to stop once the water park day is done. Fishing, hiking, biking, and pedal boats are just a handful of the kid-friendly activities, as if their impeccable water park, lazy river, and jaw-dropping water slides weren’t enough. The summer of 2017 promises to be bigger and better than ever with the addition of “Ray’s Riptide“, an epic waterslide towering over 63 feet tall with translucent tunnels and a jaw-dropping 45 degree angle twist. Also, don’t miss out on the huge Birthday Bash for Ray, their esteemed mascot on June 9th, plus their attempt to make history with the World’s Largest Swim Lesson on June 22nd. And before you head to the park, don’t miss our team’s Mom Hacks to ensure you have the best.day.ever.

June 3rd | 8am – 4pm :: National Learn to Row Day at Buffalo Bayou

The Buffalo Bayou Rowing Center {BBRC} will be on hand at the East End Navigation Esplanade offering rowing tips, a community rowing challenge, prizes, a boat-naming ceremony, and more. Their goal this year is to raise more awareness in rowing so that this sport will become a reality for Houston’s youth. This event is FREE for observers and participants.

June 3rd | 9am – 4:30pm :: AIA Sandcastle Competition in Galveston

Head out to East Beach in Galveston for some serious sandcastle building benefiting AIA Houston and ARcH Foundation. After spending months preparing designs and concepts, over 60 teams will span the beach meticulously putting together these amazing structures. Make sure you bring $15 cash for parking, and you are encouraged to pack a picnic lunch. Most important rule? No touching!!!

June 3rd | 10am – 3pm :: Extreme Weather Ready Expo

As hurricane season fires up, head out with your family to this informative and FREE expo at the George R. Brown Convention Center to help you get ready for impending severe weather. Hear from our Houston Mayor as well as several TV meteorologists. Your kids will love the interactive and hands-on activities in the KidsZone. Prizes and giveaways will be available, along with a free lunch to the first 1,500 participants.

June 3rd | 11am – 3pm :: 13th Annual Empty Bowls Houston

Presented by Whole Foods Market in partnership with Houston local ceramists and artisans, this grassroot effort is focused on raising money for the Houston Food Bank to provide millions of meals to the homeless {2.2 million to date}. For a minimum donation of $25, you can select a hand-crafted bowl from one of the artists and then receive a soup lunch prepared by the Houston Food Bank Community Kitchen. Attendees will also have a chance to view on-site pottery demonstrations, as well as give it a shot themselves.

June 3rd | 8 – 10pm :: Family Movie Night at LaCenterra with The Jungle Book

Nothing says summer like the FREE family movie nights in the heart of Katy’s LaCenterra Courtyard. Grab a blanket or chair and settle in for a big screen showing of the classic movie The Jungle Book. Hungry before? Snag a bite to eat from one of their many acclaimed family-friendly restaurants including Fish City Grill, Grimaldi’s, Dish Society, Las Alamedas, Torchy’s Tacos, and more.

June 3rd | 8:45 – 10pm :: Screen on the Green: Secret Life of Pets

Bank of America partners with Discovery Green for a showing of this hit movie from last summer. Admission is completely FREE. Snag a seat on the hill and don’t forget your lawnchairs or blankets. Food, wine, and beer will be available for purchase from the Lake House.

June 4th | 8 – 11am :: Kids Duathlon – The Woodlands

Kick off your summer with healthy exercise for children ages 5 through 10 years old. They will compete at varying levels based on age with running and biking. Admission is $35 per child and will be held in Burroughs Park {9738 Huffsmith Rd, Tomball, 77375}.

June 4th, 11th, 18th, & 25th | 7 – 10pm :: Sundays in the Park at Discovery Green

No better way to spend Sunday summer evenings than enjoying park and picnic time with your family at the picturesque Discovery Green. Each Sunday they will offer free games and live music for your listening enjoyment. Feel free to bring your four-legged family members along as well!

June 7th | 10am – Noon :: Mommy Mingle Wednesday at Children’s Museum of Houston

Held every first Wednesday of the month, join Gymboree Play & Music at the Children’s Museum for bubbles, parachute time, story time, music, and lots of fun! Spots are open for children 35 months and younger in their Tot*Spot. Even better? FREE snacks and coffee for all.

June 9th | 10am – 4pm :: Ray’s Birthday Bash at Splashway Water Park

Kids, time to tell the parents to pack up the car and head west to Splashway Water Park for a birthday celebration you do not want to miss! Enjoy a gigantic birthday cake, special goodie bags for the kids, plus a craft table. And we all know that our lovable Ray always has surprises up his sleeve as well, so keep your eyes open. {Insider Tip :: Have a June birthday? Book your party on Ray’s Day and receive 25% off Ray’s Party Package. If you haven’t celebrated at Splashway before, their bashes are EPIC. Check out all that is included in your party and enjoy!.}

June 9th | 7pm :: Summer Concert Series at Cane Island in Katy

The Amenity Village at Cane Island will kick off their summer series with a performance from Sydney Bryant. Even better? Yellow Brick Road Winery out of Sealy will be on hand pairing the best summer wines to beat the heat. This family-friendly event will also include food trucks for your dining pleasure. Admission is $10 for residents, $15 for non-residents.

June 10th | 7 – 9:30pm :: Arboretum at Night: Frogs

Get in touch with nature for an educational and unique date night idea! Head out to the Arboretum to learn about the fascinating beauty and diversity of frogs. While you walk the trails, enjoy adult beverages from Saint Arnold Brewing Company, along with light bites and Katz Coffee. Recommended to wear weather appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes. Register here, $45 for non-members, $35 for members.

June 15th | 5 – 9pm :: Sip Suds & Stroll – Third Thursdays in The Heights

Head out to the historic 19th street in The Heights for this special Father’s Day edition of Third Thursdays. Treat the men in your life to some of Houston’s finest craft brew tastings along historic 19th Street while perusing boutiques, antique shops, jewelry, and home decor stores. {Hey, this may be the only time you can get your man to actually shop with you!} After you’ve picked up one or five treasures, make sure to visit the eclectic array of eateries that line this amazing block in our fine city.

June 15th | 6 – 9pm :: Blanket Bingo at Market Square Park

This park favorite is back and better than ever! Enjoy music, prizes, and of course BINGO in the lovely downtown Market Square Park. Admission is $10 and includes one bingo packet, good for 9 games. Additional games may be purchased for $1. Proceeds benefit the Buffalo Bayou and Market Square Park partnership.

June 16th – 18th | {check website for times} ::Galveston Cajun Festival

What better way to celebrate Father’s Day Weekend than a good ol’ festival down by the beach in gorgeous Kempner Park? Your kids will love their specialty KidZone, plus delight in the crawfish racing, crawfish eating contest, and live music. Not a crawfish fan? No worries, they will have plenty of other Cajun food vendors! Best of all, it’s FREE. And we love that a portion of the proceeds from the event will support the G-County Hope Foundation, a non-profit serving the underprivileged in Galveston and surrounding communities.

June 16th – August 11th | Open until 8:30pm :: 2017 Cool Nights at the Houston Zoo

It may be steamy outside, but it’s COOL inside the Houston Zoo. 2017 Cool Nights kicks off with “Snowin’ in the South”. Where else can you make a snow angel or build a snowman in 90 degree temps? TXU will offer additional fun, family-friendly activities and music during the season of Cool Nights, all of which are included with regular zoo admission. If you attend on June 16th, make plans to stay late with their large screen “Zoovie” showing of SING. Wow, what a COOL event!

June 17th | 7:30am :: No Label Brewing 1st Street 5K

Give Dad the gift of exercise this year – and BEER! Strap on those running shoes, throw the kids in a stroller, and head out to one of Houston’s best breweries for this annual beer run. Finishers will be able to sample up to 4 different No Label brews, and non-participants may also purchase up until 10:30am. Each runner will also receive a t-shirt and souvenir glass. Food vendors, including breakfast taco stations will also be on-site. Register now for early bird pricing through June 3rd.

June 17th | 10am – 5pm :: VegFest Houston Vegan Expo Festival

Did you know that Houston is ranked the 4th “Most Veg Friendly City” in the U.S.? Presented by the Vegan Society of P.E.A.C.E., head out to the Stafford Centre Convention Hall for the 5th Annual VegFest. With a special Kids Zone area, informative Q&A sessions, vegan samplings, and great food trucks, this event is sure to be a healthy and family-friendly Saturday afternoon. Children under 12 are FREE, plus snag your advance “Perk Pass” here for special swag bag items and exclusive discounts and offers from the event.

June 17th & 24th |11am & 2pm :: The Wizard of Oz at Main Street Theatre

There’s no place like home. There’s no place like home. Travel down the yellow brick road with Dorothy and friends as she tries to find her way home. This musical production will reaffirm the life lessons of friendship, love, and courage. Sensory-friendly performance will be held on June 24th for the 11am showing. Buy your tickets here. {Please note, these performances are recommended for Kindergarten age and up; no children under 3, including babies are permitted in the theatre.}

June 18th | 1 – 6pm :: Kemah Father’s Day Market

Select a one-of-a-kind gift for Dad at the Kemah Community Center, just a few blocks from the Boardwalk. Completely FREE parking and admission. We highly recommend you then treat Dad to a wonderful lunch or early dinner in this famed district of Galveston. Happy shopping!

June 19th | 10am –  :: A Gulf Coast Juneteenth {Parade, Freedom Fest, and Celebration}

Miller Outdoor Theatre, Houston Museum of African American Culture {HMAAC}, The Ensemble Theatre, and the Houston Arts Alliance’s Folklife & Civic Engagement program commemorate the 152nd anniversary of the liberation of Texas slavesIn addition to performances at Miller Theatre, The City of Houston’s Emancipation Park will celebrate its grand re-dedication and be the site of multiple events celebrating the Legacy of Freedom with 2017 Juneteenth Emancipation Celebration!

June 22nd | 9am :: World’s Largest Swim Lesson Record at Splashway Water Park

Help break the Guinness Records of the WLSL at Splashway in conjunction with other aquatic facilities and pools across the globe as they raise awareness on the importance of water safety. Splashway will offer a FREE lesson, along with a goodie bag and Certificate of Participation. Even better, once you have preregistered, you are also eligible to purchase an admission ticket to the park for 50% to enjoy once the lesson is complete! There is no age limit on participation, but children 5 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

June 23rd | 7 – 9pm :: Concerts in the Park {Pearland}

Kick off your weekend with the City of Pearland’s traditional Friday night concerts at Southdown Park. The band City Nights will be on stage playing a variety of Top 40 hits, country, and even some Golden Oldies everyone knows and loves. While you enjoy the tunes, let the kids hit up the splash pad and playground. Don’t forget to bring your lawn chairs and/or blankets, and even a picnic dinner if you so desire.

June 23rd | 7:30 – 9:30pm :: NOLA  Nights with Rouxpour  {Sugar Land Town Center}

Celebrate the music and history of our favorite state to the east with acclaimed Sugar Land restaurant, Rouxpour. The New Orleans Hustlers Brass Band will be bringing your favorite Crescent City tunes live from the stage in the square. Rouxpour will be serving tasty plates and beer on the plaza during the event.

June 24th | 10am – 5pm :: Minion Dominion at the Children’s Museum of Houston

Snag your one-in-a-Minion chance to meet your faves from Despicable Me including the not-so-evil Gru and Lucy Wilde, plus your beloved goggle-wearing Minions. Multiple activities will be held in the Kids’ Hall Alcove, including an opportunity to build your own Minion. Admission to this interactive day of fun is included in your $12 ticket price {children and adults}.

June 24th | 8:30pm :: Summer Symphony Nights with Mozart and Dvorak

In conjunction with ExxonMobil, the Houston Symphony will delight your entire family with classic compositions you know and love. Set under the stars at Miller Outdoor Theatre, enjoy a casual and relaxed atmosphere while you listening to sophisticated sounds from this talented group of musicians. FREE tickets are available at the box office on the day of the show from 10:30am – 1pm for the covered portion of the venue; open seating is available on the hill.

June 26th | 2 – 6pm :: Paddles and Paws in The Woodlands

Row, row, row your boat… with Rover! Trot down to the Riva Row Boat House for their 2 hour rowing rentals with a twist. Explore Lake Woodlands with man’s best friend at your side in either a solo {$15} or tandem {$20} kayak. Life jackets are required for your pup, so either bring your own or you may borrow one from the Boat House. Register here!

June 30th | 7:30pm – 9:30pm :: Dave Matthews Tribute Band at Sugar Land Square

Nothing says summer nights like a little DMB action, brought to you live by cover band “Warehouse.” Grab your lawn chairs and settle in for a night of ridiculously good music the whole family will enjoy jamming to. Sugar Land Town Square is also known for it’s amazing array of eateries, so bring your appetite and grab a bite before the show. We personally love Ruggles, Escalantes, Rouxpour, and The Cheesecake Factory, just to name a few.

5 Things You May Not Know About Splashway Water Park | Houston Moms Blog

We can do this, moms! Cheers to the best summer ever, and don’t forget to snag your reservations for Splashway Water Park. We promise you it will be an unforgettable day with endless memories made!


Looking for more summer fun? Don’t miss Your ULTIMATE Guide to Summer in Houston below!


Please Note :: While we make every effort to crosscheck current links and event details on our guides, we always encourage you to do the same before making final plans. If details are missing or incorrect, please let us know so that we can make every attempt to correct them.  And if you know of any other events happening this month, include them in the comments to keep the list going!

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Meagan Clanahan
Meagan is a Dallas native who has lived in the Katy area for over a decade. She kicked a soccer ball all the way to Louisiana to attend college at her family’s alma mater of LSU, where she promptly fell in love with a Texas Aggie in Baton Rouge for an internship. After swimming back to Texas following Hurricane Katrina, Matt and Meagan fell in love with the Houston area and now couldn’t imagine living anywhere else. Following several years of infertility, their miracle twins Ryan and Quinn were born in June of 2010. She believes there is nothing better than a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio, a large Sonic Diet Coke, sushi take-out, Girls Nights Out, and a mindless book to curl up with. Besides playing chauffeur and catering to the whims of her children, Meagan also is the Co-Owner of Houston Moms Blog. You can keep up with Meagan at The Clanahan Fam and on Instagram @meaganclanahan!

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