Looking for things to do around Houston's Heights, River Oaks and Montrose neighborhoods this spring? From a food festival to an inaugural mahjong tournament, check out these six events happening in your area in April and May. This list is not comprehensive.

The City Market

This two-day shopping experience featuring boutique gifts, accessories, original art, gourmet food, clothing and jewelry will take place at downtown retail and entertainment space POST Houston. Presented by the Houston Junior Forum—a women-organized nonprofit—the market presents an opportunity to buy gifts for Easter, Mother’s Day and graduations.
  • April 11, 2-8 p.m.; April 12, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
  • Free (admission)
  • 401 Franklin St., Houston
  • www.thecitymkt.org
The Houston Art Car Parade returns with a weekend of associated events in May. (Courtesy Morris Malakoff)
The Houston Art Car Parade returns with a weekend of associated events in May. (Courtesy Morris Malakoff)
Houston Art Car Parade

This 38th annual weekend of events is presented by The Orange Show Center for Visionary Arts. The main event—an art car parade will start on Allen Parkway at the I-45 overpass and circle around City Hall in downtown Houston—and feature more than 250 mobile masterpieces, food trucks and an after party at Market Square Park.Houston Heights Association Mahjong Tournament

This first-ever Mahjong tournament takes place at the historic Heights Fire Station. Sixty competitors will play the game to win prizes. Ticket prices include drinks and food, and proceeds benefit the Houston Heights Association’s Reimagine Donovan Park renovation project.
Houston's Taste of a Nation event will feature food and wine samples and pairings from more than 40 of the city's top restauranteurs and mixologists. (Courtesy No Kid Hungry)
Houston's Taste of a Nation event will feature food and wine samples and pairings from more than 40 of the city's top restauranteurs and mixologists. (Courtesy No Kid Hungry)
Houston’s Taste of the Nation


This culinary event for a cause supports the No Kid Hungry campaign, which fights against childhood hunger. It takes place at Silver Street Studios and features gourmet bites, crafted cocktails, games and entertainment from more than 40 of the city’s top chefs, restaurants and mixologists. Ticket options include all access passes, ticket packages and cabanas.Houston Center for Photography Workshop

The educational, community-driven photography workshop at Levy Park will focus on the art as a means of creative expression and teach its basic skills. Attendees will learn and practice various aspects of photography, including composition and lighting. All skill levels and camera types are welcome.
Sip and stroll through the Houston Arboretum during this curated hike with wine or beer. (Courtesy Houston Arboretum)
Sip and stroll through the Houston Arboretum during this curated hike with wine or beer. (Courtesy Houston Arboretum)
Sip & Stroll

This accessible 21 years and older hike at the Houston Arboretum trails consists of a curated half-mile trek through boardwalks, granite trails and paved concrete. The stroll includes two glasses of wine or Saint Arnold beer, and cheese and charcuterie offerings from Graze HTX.