A Houston Mom’s Guide to September 2018

September, September! Let’s shout it from the rooftops! Kids are back in school, routines are getting somewhat normalized, and FALL weather is on the horizon. So let’s start retiring our flip flops…errrr, maybe not yet. It IS Houston after all! But our warm fall days don’t stop our great town from pulling out all the stops this month with amazing family friendly events all over town. From festivals to family movie nights, there is something for everyone.

And honestly, I can’t think of anything more seasonal than our very generous sponsors for this month’s event guide – Idea Labs Kids of Spring Branch. What better time than back to school to enhance your child’s learning in their fabulous after school programs? IDEA Lab Kids is the coolest invention for kids since sliced bread – and one of the hottest enterprises for children in 2018, according to Entrepreneur Magazine! Through camps, after-school programs, birthday parties, preschool enrichment and more, IDEA Lab Kids goes above and beyond by bringing together the principles of STEM {Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics} with the world of Arts and Social Sciences to young minds through engaging and creative curriculum.

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At any of the various classes and camps held throughout the year, kids are immersed in activities ranging from cooking, to drone engineering, to coding and 3D art. The crucial work of research and design development takes place in the Innovation Lab, where cutting-edge technology, such as laser cutting and 3D printing, allows the team to stay ahead of the game and construct unique educative curriculum for a truly fun learning experience. Make sure you check out their Friday night workshops this fall that highlight STEAM principles, PLUS fun-themed activities and pizza dinners. Sign us up, right? Thanks Idea Lab kids!

Connect with Idea Lab Kids – Spring Branch

8404 Katy Frwy, Ste. 200
Houston, TX 77024
(713) 463-5062
[email protected]

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram


Now, are you ready for all things FALL in Houston? Let’s go! 

August 1st- September 3rd :: Houston Restaurant Weeks

It’s the most wonderful time of the year…well in Houston for all the foodies!  This is your chance to try out some of the most delectable restaurants in our area, all in support of a great cause. With proceeds benefiting Houston Food Bank, you can sample everything from brunch to dinner, mostly at price-fixed menu options.  Check out the full list of restaurants, and then don’t miss HMB’s curated list of family-friendly options too!

August 1st – September 3rd | Open until 8:30pm :: Chill Out at the Houston Zoo

Stay cool all summer long as TXU Energy presents Chill Out at the Houston Zoo! Even in the heat you can head to the Zoo for a relaxing day filled with fun, education, and amazing animals. It may be hot outside, but the Zoo is cool and open late until 8:30pm now thru September 3, 2018.

September 1st | 11:15am, 1:15pm, 3:15pm :: Llama Llama Pajama-Rama at the Children’s Museum in Houston

We’re turning bedtime into an all-out llama drama!  You’re invited to celebrate in your PJ’s the all-time favorite children’s book, “Llama Llama Red Pajama” by Anna Dewdney.  Join an infectious rhyming read-aloud during a Pajama-Rama complete with a special appearance by Llama Llama.

September 2nd | 2:00pm- 12:00am :: Taste of the Caribbean Festival at BH Ranch

Celebrating the food, the music, the history, and the rich cultural traditions of the Caribbean, the 2nd Annual Taste of the Caribbean Festival is a of a kind festival features live musical performances representing all the musical styles of the Caribbean, food representing the wide and diverse culinary flavors of the Caribbean, and various other cultural performances inviting festiva-lgoers to “taste” the food, music, and overall culture of the Caribbean. The festival will take place on Labor Day Sunday, September 2nd, 2018 @ BH Ranch Entertainment Center, 14149 Buxley, Houston, TX 77045.

September 2nd | 2:30pm :: Children’s Yoga at the Children’s Museum of Houston

The Children’s Museum of Houston is introducing Children’s Yoga every first Sunday of the month. Join this 30-minute children’s yoga session as we play with balance and practice stretches, poses and breathing exercises. No need to register!

September 6th | 9:15am :: Toddler Music with Sessions Music at the Sugar Land Town Square Plaza 

Sing, sway, laugh and play! Join us for a FREE class on the Sugar Land Town Square Plaza with Sessions Music. Immerse your child in a musical atmosphere of play, song and dance, all while he or she develops fundamental skills, and connect with other moms, dads and families. This class is recommended for ages newborn through 7 years.

Hit the books and conquer numerous chapters! Flip a new page and join us as we celebrate the power of literacy during Read Like a Boss WonderWeek at the Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center.
September 7th | 7:00pm – 9:00pm :: Party at the Pavilion at Bellaire Great Lawn
Party at the Pavilion is a free concert that occurs on the first Friday of every month. Bring family and friends to enjoy live music and good food! On Friday, September 7th at 7 PM, the band Satellite will perform in the Bellaire Great Lawn. The Foreign Policy Food Truck will provide concession. Please bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating. Reminder, there are no dogs allowed in the park.
September 7th | 10:00 am :: Mommy Mingle at Fort Bend Discover Center
Calling all Fort Bend Area moms!Come and enjoy free coffee and breakfast snacks on us (while supplies last) and meet other mommies from your part of town.  Bring your little ones for awesome playtime to Tot*Spotour exclusive exhibit for children 35 months and under.  Daddies, nannies, and caretakers are welcome too!  Everyone is invited no matter where you live. The event is included with general admission.
September 8th | 10:00 am – 5:00 pm:: Mermaid Day at The Woodlands Children Museum
Introduce your child to the wonder of reading and instill a love of books at an early age. A special mermaid book reading and mermaid art project.No reservation needed. Free with price of admission.
September 8th | 10:00 am – 5:00 pm:: Heart of Katy Market Craft Show
Join us for the Semi-Annual Heart of Katy Craft Market! This event has FREE admission, with over 100 vendors and a concession stand with the proceeds going straight back to KBBC.
September 8th | 3:00 pm – 10:00 pm :: 90’s Bar Crawl – Houston
Remember AIM? Remember the Ninja Turtles? Remember when you were cool, back in the 90s? As if! We’re giving you a chance to redeem yourself. Relive the glory days at the 90s Bar Crawl! Lace up your LA Gears, slap on your bracelets and saddle up your Furbies. Let’s take on Houston 90s style. The largest national 90s tour is coming back to Houston on Saturday, September 8, 2018.
September 8th | 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm :: Hip-Hop Orchestra in Houston!
When was the last time you witnessed strings, horns and a pianist at a Hip-Hop concert? Add to that a fiery female soul vocalist, a crowd rocking DJ, a masterful Maestro/MC and that is still but a fraction of what you will see when you catch Thee Phantom & The Illharmonic Orchestra live. Join them at the beautiful, Stude Concert Hall on the campus of Rice University on Saturday, September 8th! $20 Entry Fee. Tickets Available Online Now!
September 9th | 10:00 pm – 3:00 pm :: Pasadena Trade Days
Join us for Pasadena Trade Days on the Pasadena Fairgrounds on SUNDAY, September 9th from 10 am to 3 pm! We have boutiques, unique specialty shops, artists, fashion trucks, cool artisans and more joining us! Free Admission and Parking!
September 9th | 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm :: Karbach ART Market
Join us for our monthly local art market in the Biergarten with some of your favorite local artists, makers, and vintage curators. Enjoy live music, local eats, and the delicious local craft Karbach beer. Free to attend and kid & pet friendly!
September 9th | 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm :: Dear Summer : BBQ + Beats at Sawyer Yards
The Dear Summer BBQ offers a new image of the Texas cookout. Enjoy a delicious spread courtesy of a true pitmaster with a soundtrack provided by some of your favorite DJs. With exception to the smoked goodness from the “pitt”, the music is arguably the most important element of the barbecue. Come ready to eat, drink, dance and sing off-key as we celebrate summertime vibes one last time.
September 13th | 4:30pm – 6:30pm :: Open Lab at Idea Lab Kids
Open Lab at IDEA Lab consists of two hours of STEAM activities! During Open Lab guests get a snapshot of the many programs that IDEA Lab has to offer. Open Lab takes place during weekdays and allows students a chance to visit an IDEA Lab facility. No o previous experience necessary. Open Lab runs from 4:30pm-6:30pm and is open to students ages 5-12. Cost: $15. Theme :: “Think Like A Programmer” – For International Day Of Programming IDEA Lab is offering an one of a kind Open Lab.  Guests will build a fun engineering project and learn how computers interact with everyday things.
September 13th, 14th, and 15th | 8:00pm each night :: Houston Ballet at Miller Outdoor Theatre
We invite the local community to join us for this thrilling opportunity to see Houston Ballet’s talented dancers perform selections from beloved favorites Romeo and Juliet, Swan Lake, and Don Quixote; as well as dazzling excerpts from Raymonda, Sons de L’ame, Spring Waters, The Ladies, and even Stanton Welch’s latest world premiere Just! Open lawn seating and ticketed covered seating are available. Free covered seating tickets are available (4 per person over age 16, while they last) at the Miller Outdoor Theatre Box Office the day of the event from 10:30 AM-1 PM.
September 13th | 6:30pm – 8:00pm :: FREE Fall Fashion Show with Project One Way
Come out to the Plaza for a girls’ night out with drinks, fall fashion, sweet treats and fun. We’re hosting a one-woman fashion show featuring lifestyle blogger Megan of Honey We’re Home. Megan will showcase her favorite fall pieces from Sugar Land Town Square retailers. Raffle tickets will be available for purchase for prizes from SLTS retailers. All proceeds from raffle ticket sales will benefit Dress for Success Houston. Happy hour starts at 6:30 PM. Fashion show starts at 7:00 PM. #ProjectOneWay
September 13th | 6:30pm – 8:00pm :: Moms Mingle Comedy Show with Hope for Three
Moms Mingle Comedy show is a FREE event honoring moms of children with Autism hosted by United in Autism at the Sugar Land Marriott. How long has it been since SOMEONE HAS TAKEN CARE OF YOU? Allow us to pamper you with eats, gifts, laughs, and precious time to connect with other moms on the same journey!
September 15th | 2:00pm – 4:00pm :: Idea Kids Lab Pearland Launch Party
Celebrate the exciting opening of our NEW S.T.E.A.M. CAMPUS in Pearland… and YOU’RE INVITED! IDEA Lab Kids is a leading resource for STEAM education! We combine the principles of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) with the world of Arts & Social Sciences through cutting-edge curriculum offered in our diverse programming for kids of all ages. They invite you to come check out their new campus and experience some of our fun & engaging activities! There will be fun giveaways during the event and different stations set up throughout our campus … you won’t want to miss out! RSVP Required! Sign up online @ bit.ly/2Pbk6W4
September 15th | 6:00pm – 10:00pm :: Flea By Night presented by Green Mountain Energy
Treasure-hunt at this monthly, one-of-a-kind market nestled in the southeast end of the downtown park. The destination market features an array of artful kitsch, vintage items, mid-century modern furniture, recycled and repurposed items and collectibles, and crafts by local artisans and designers. Like us on Facebook for updates, contests and more!
September 15th | 7:00pm – 8:30pm :: Hypnotist Daniel James
Enjoy a fun, family event the 2nd Friday of every month at Lakeland Village Center! There will be activities and entertainment, as well as a wide variety of food trucks, ranging from vegan to cuban food and from cupcakes to snocones! Bring your blankets and lawn chairs for a fun evening with your family, friends, and neighbors!
The Bayou City Music Series, a new concert series presented by the Kinder Foundation, honors the great jazz, blues and zydeco musicians of Houston in free concerts taking place at The Water Works in Buffalo Bayou Park, 105 Sabine Street, Houston, TX 77007 this month.
September 18th | 6:30pm – 9:30pm :: 5th Annual Banh Mi Cook-Off 2018
Join us for our 5th Annual Banh Mi Cook-off Fundraising event! It will be held on Tuesday, September 18th at Chapman and Kirby from 6:30pm to 9:30pm. Your ticket to event includes unlimited Banh Mi samples of the Chef’s creations, delicious desserts samples from many vendors. There will be a CASH BAR for drinks, and Happy Hour drink prices all night. Parking is $10 Via Valet or you can Uber/Lyft. Free off-street parking after 6PM.
September 19th | 10:00 am – 5:00 pm:: Pirate Day at The Woodlands Children Museum
Introduce your child to the wonder of reading and instill a love of books at an early age. Enjoy a treasured pirate book and delight in creating Pirate Hats. No reservation needed. Free with price of admission.
September 19th | 9:00 am – 9:00 pm:: Houston Museum of Natural Science After Dark
For everyone who has wished for access to the museum in the evenings after work, here’s your chance… HMNS will stay open from 9 am to 9 pm! Drop by the Wortham Giant Screen Theatre, the Cockrell Butterfly Center and the all-new, renovated Burke Baker Planetarium. Plus, take advantage of two public tours at 6 and 7 pm featuring the Hall of Ancient Egypt and the Morian Hall of Paleontology, and grab a drink at the cash bar.
Our Book Club is LIVE! Mark your calendars for Thursday, September 20 at 8:30 pm for our first meeting {held conveniently on Facebook Live}. This month, we will be reading and discussing Love and Luck, by Jenna Evans Welch.
September 21st | 6:00pm – 8:00pm :: Succulent Workshop at Heights Haven
If you are interested in an interesting Mom’s Night Out event, check out The Succulent Bar’s Succulent Workshop. Tickets are $35 per person (plus tax) which includes a medium sized succulent arrangement with 3 succulents per person.  The venue is BYOB and we will have Chef Evelyn there (past Chopped Champion) serving up dinner for those interested in purchasing!
September 21st | 6:30pm- 9:00pm :: Friday Night STEAM Workshops with Idea Lab Kids
Idea Lab offers Friday Night STEAM workshops once a month! STEAM Team workshops are a fun-filled evening where parents can drop their children off for a night of themed activities and a pizza dinner at their nearest IDEA Lab Kids Facility! Workshops run from 6:30 pm- 9:00 pm. Each guest will participate in two hours of fun themed activities and enjoy a 30 minute pizza dinner! Friday night STEAM workshops are open to children ages 5-12. All guests will be split into age appropriate groups to enjoy an evening of fun! Cost :: $25 {Includes Pizza Dinner and 2 hours of activities for each guest.} Friday’s them :: Gamers Paradise with Minecraft and Roblox challenges…At this Friday Night STEAM workshop guests will explore the fun filled world of coding and programming with game design! Guests will learn how they can use coding and programming to alter some of their favorite open world games.
September 22nd | 10:00am – 5:00pm :: Fall Fun Fest at Rosenberg Railroad Museum
Back by popular demand is our theme from last year “May the Steam be With You” featuring model steam trains, the trackless ride on steam train, themed character guest appearances, The Texas Flyer, bounce houses, Operation Lifesaver,  food trucks, crafts, games and much more!
September 22nd | Opens at 10:00am –  :: Blessington Farms Opening Weekend Fall Festival
A great outing for the entire family with many Fall activities that include hay rides, giant slides, barrel train rides, pedal cars and animal encounters with camels, Baby Doll sheep, goats and MANY more. We have many new fun items debuting this Fall including a new gift shop. The walk-thru aviary where you can feed our new Quaker Parrots is a favorite as well as the recent addition of the Rope Maze and Fossil Dig. All activities are included in the price of admission with the exception of camel and bird feedings which are $3 each. Join us each weekend through October.
September 22nd | 11:00am – 7:00pm :: Menil Collection Reopening Celebration
The public is invited to celebrate the reopening of the main building with food trucks and, as always, free admission. We look forward to welcoming visitors from around the world as they rediscover the magic and beauty of the Menil Collection.
September 22nd | 2:00pm – 10:00pm :: 2018 Taste of New Orleans
The 4th Annual Taste of New Orleans is set and ready to go! This year we are bringing Bourbon Street to you. Everything from delicious food to hand grenades to dancing will be present at Jones Plaza. Check out the New Orleans Art as well!
September 22nd | 6:30pm – 9:00pm :: Bites and Brews at Fort Bend Museum
Enjoy a night under the stars at the Fort Bend Museum! Featuring wine, beer, hors d’oeuvres from local eateries, music, historic house tours and more! More details coming soon!

September 23rd | 12pm :: Texans Home Game vs NY Jets

A September monthly guide just wouldn’t be complete without mentioning JJ and crew taking on the Jets in the first home game at NRG for the 2018 season. Bulls on parade! Check out some amazing and simple tailgating recipes to bring to the big game — or make them at home for your own amazing “tailgate.” We also have list of FREEBIES that all of us get after the Texans WIN!

September 23rd :: Katy Triathalon at Cane Island

KATY TRIATHLON is Sept. 23rd. Join us at Cane Island for this wonderful charity event brought to you by Katy Rotary. Also make sure to check out Flights and Bites by Katy Rotary.

September 24th :: Sensory Friendly Days at the Children’s Museum Houston

The Children’s Museum was recently designated a Certified Autism Center and once a month will host Sensory Friendly Days for guests. Guests can enjoy light and sound reduction, smaller crowds, quiet areas, ear defenders available for loan, onsite experts, special activities, ability for visitors to bring in their own food.

September 26th | 7:00pm – 10:00pm :: Wild West Brew Fest presents Flights and Bites 

Enjoy an exclusive evening with some of the top brewers in the country while enjoying a 5-course meal prepared by Flemings Prime Steakhouse. We are working with our partners in brewing to bring special cellar aged very hard to find (or impossible to find) beers which will compliment each course prepared by Flemings. We are limiting this event to 110 people only and we will sell it out, grab your tickets today! As always with any WWBF event, we will donate the net proceeds to charities.

September 26th | 11:30 am :: Lego Read and Build at The Woodlands Children Museum

The combination of construction play and reading has been shown to increase a child’s physical, cognitive and emotional development while encouraging them to use their creativity, imagination and dexterity. Join us during our short story time, building compatible activities with Lego® Duplo® blocks and accessories. Best for ages 3-6. No reservation needed. Free with paid admission.

September 27th, 28th, and 29th | 9:00am – 6:00pm :: Just Between Friends Houston South

You have to see this event to believe it–A true shopping extravaganza! Shop 13,000 square feet of bargains at 50-90% off retail prices. Find baby gear, children’s clothing, toys, books, shoes, maternity wear and more! GET YOUR FREE ADMISSION TICKETS: https://bit.ly/2LG4Nr6

September 28th | 5:30pm – 9:00pm :: Finch Properties Pay-What-You-Can 3rd Annual Fish Fry

Finch Properties will be hosting their third annual Fish Fry, benefiting HomeAid Houston at Ecclesia Church located at 1100 Elder Street from 5:30pm to 9:00pm. Tickets are pay-what-you-can by donation. For large parties, table purchase is available for $200 as well as an option to donate outside the event. Tickets include a plate of fried fish, accompanied by additional sides, music, face painting and carnival games, silent auction and raffle. All proceeds will go to HomeAid Houston.

September 28th | 7:30pm – 9:00pm :: Dancing Under the Stars at the Sugar Land Plaza

Break out your dancing shoes and join us in Sugar Land Plaza for a night of Dancing Under The Stars with Fred Astaire Dance Studio instructors.

September 29th | 11:00am – 2:00pm :: Just Fearless Women Rising Expo
Come and experience the Power of Women in all aspects of Business and Media. There will be panels on economic growth for women, empowerment, gender equality, and more with great networking opportunities. Enjoy raffles with Incredible Prizes for Priority Ticketholders. Come and join us for this fantastic celebration! 

September 29th | 7:00pm – 8:30pm :: Bollywood Boogie at the Sugar Land Plaza

Enjoy an evening with Rhythm India Bollywood Dance Co. as they perform an endless array of brilliantly choreographed dances in vibrant Indian costumes. You’ll also have the opportunity to learn some dance moves from their talented instructors! The event will feature booth spaces with henna, face painting & more. This event supports East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry.

September 29th | 11:00am – 6:00pm :: Oktoberfest Houston 2018 

Oktoberfest Houston showcases German and Texas culture in one fantastic day! Join us on September 29th at the Beautiful Water Works at Buffalo Bayou Park for Houston’s only Beer Fest with a German twist. Put on your Lederhosen and Dirndls and enjoy a variety of German and Craft beer and the best polka music in Texas.

September 28th – October 7th | Various Times :: Fort Bend County Fair and Rodeo

Fort Bend County Fair and Rodeo has grown into one of the largest and most successful Fairs in the State. Residents of the county eagerly anticipate visiting with friends and neighbors at some of the many activities the Fair and Rodeo has to offer during its 10 day run. Check out their daily calendar for activities.


Recurring Events for Your Calendar

Every Friday :: Free Fitness Classes at Sugar Land Plaza 

Enjoy FREE Bootcamp with Cida Fitness from 9:00 am- 10:00 am and Zumba with Cida Fitness from 10:00am – 11:00am.

First Friday of Every Month | 7:00pm – 9:00pm :: Party at the Pavilion at Bellaire Great Lawn

Party at the Pavilion is a free concert that occurs on the first Friday of every month. Bring family and friends to enjoy live music and good food! Please bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating. Reminder, there are no dogs allowed in the park.
Introduce your child to the wonder of reading and instill a love of books at an early age. Storybook Theatre combines your favorite childhood books with songs, rhymes and finger plays which are meant to promote early literacy and enhance language development. No reservation needed. Free with price of admission.

Every Saturday in September :: Buy One Get One Free Aquarium Pass at the Downtown Aquarium

Buy One Get One Free Aquarium Adventure Pass on Saturdays! Must present coupon at ticket booth. Details online and on Facebook.

Every Saturday | 9:00am – 1:00pm :: Forever Fulshear Farmer’s Market

Forever Fulshear hosts the Fulshear Farmers’ Market every Saturday, year round, from 9:00a.m.-1:00p.m.
We can be reached by phone at 713.703.4129 or via email, [email protected].

Every Second Saturday of the Month | 12:00pm – 5:00pm :: Sawyer Yards Second Saturday

Spend the afternoon wandering through Sawyer Yards’ five studio buildings and discover an extensive selection of painting, sculpture, jewelry, photography, clothing, mixed media and more. Meet some of the 300+ artists, learn about their work and add a new piece (or two!) to your collection. Second Saturday is a free event and open to the public, so bring your friends!


Looking for more? Check out these links below and our Events Calendar on the blog…

Join Houston Moms Blog’s Book Club!!

Healthy School Lunch Ideas

Top Ten Meals for Back-To-School

Top 30 Family-Friendly Patios in Houston

Best Baby Registries in Houston

50 Family-Friendly Restaurants in Greater Houston

Houston’s Best Family-Friendly Brunch Spots


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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Jennifer H
Jennifer is a native outside-the-loop’er growing up and living in the Richmond/Rosenberg area. She has a Bachelors in theology and political science from Texas Lutheran University and a Masters in Liberal Arts from Texas Christian University. She and her husband Greg met in 2010 through Match.com and fell in love on their first date. They married exactly one year later and have fought lovingly and constantly since. They have two amazingly brilliant girls, Kaitlyn {June 2013} and Elizabeth {June 2015} who Jen stays home with during the day. When Jen is not curled in a little ball rocking back and forth with Peppa Pig on in the background, she can be found crafting with her Silhouette and/or binge watching The Office for the millionth time. Jen has an uncanny ability to be comfortable in almost any situation put in front of her, thanks to growing up in politics and on the debate team. Before having kids of her own, she had the opportunity to help other kids through teaching, youth ministry, and generally being a helpful, kind soul. You can check out more about Jen on IG @themommymiddle.

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