From barbecue cook-offs to outdoor movies, summertime activities are beginning to pop up around the Lake Conroe area.


1. Visit a quilt show
April 25-27
St. Mary's Catholic Church is hosting its fifth annual St. Mary's Quilt Show for viewing, judging and sale. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Donation (entry). 8227 Country Road 205, Plantersville. 713-882-5850. www.stmarysquiltshow.com

2. Compete in a barbecue cook-off
April 26-27
The public is welcome at the 15th annual Lone Star Pony Express barbecue cook-off with auctions benefiting nonprofit Roundup for Autism. Noon-7 p.m. (Fri.), 9 a.m.-7 p.m. (Sat.). $10. 28693 FM 1097, Montgomery. 281-974-6948. www.lonestarpontexpress.org

3. Treat yourself to shaved ice
April 26
Lottie's Shivers Shaved Ice is hosting its opening day for its fifth year selling ice treats during the summers in Conroe with complimentary small snow cones for trying new flavors. Food cart Tacos in Low Places is scheduled to attend. Free (admission). 3:30-9:30 p.m. 2101 Maurel Drive, Conroe. 936-828-6439. Learn more here.

4. Take the kids to a festival
April 27
The Conroe Kidz Festival features games, train rides, face painting, food and live entertainment. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free (admission). C. K. Recreation Center, 1203 Candy Cane Lane, Conroe. 936-522-3911. www.cityofconroe.org

5. Watch a movie under the stars
April 27
Historic Montgomery is hosting a Saturday Night Cinema Series featuring Disney's "Incredibles 2" on the lawn. Bring chairs, blankets and family. 7:30-9:30 p.m. Free (admission). 14420 Liberty St., Montgomery. 936-597-6434. Learn more here.

6. Go to a grand opening
April 26-27
Life Giving Life The Recovery Project is hosting a grand opening weekend with a ribbon-cutting, food and fun. The ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled to take place April 26 at 10 a.m., and the celebration is April 27 at noon. Free.
936-597-3339. 14740 Liberty St., Montgomery. www.lifegivingliferecovery.com