Looking for family-friendly activities to enjoy over the summer? Check out these seven events in Houston’s Inner Loop. This list is not comprehensive, and details are subject to change.
Roots & Rhythm
Celebrate freedom, creativity and culture at the open mic night honoring Juneteenth at Five Central.
- June 19, 7-10:30 p.m.
- Free (admission)
- 2736 Virginia St., Houston
- www.eventbrite.com
Wax & Words
Artists of all skill levels can participate in the workshop and bring their favorite lyrics, quotes and poetry to embed in art using the ancient medium of encaustic.
- June 20, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
- $105.96 (general admission)
- 1502 Sawyer St., Houston
- www.sawyeryards.com
HTX Contemporary Dance Festival
The inaugural dance festival is a two-day celebration of contemporary dance and features curated master classes and community conversations.
- June 24-25, times vary
- $40 (performance pass), $60 (weekend pass)
- 800 Bagby St., Houston
- www.houstoncontemporary.org/htxdancefest
Battle of the Badges
The Houston Heights Association is hosting a blood drive at the Historic Heights Fire Station, where donors can vote for the Houston Fire Department or the Houston Police Department.
- June 30, 2-8 p.m.
- Free
- 107 W. 12th St., Houston
- www.houstonheights.org
Run Wild 5K & Kids Run
Participants will receive a timed bib, finisher medal and a free finish video at the race, which benefits Girls on the Run Greater Houston and Special Olympics Texas.
- July 4, 7:30 a.m.
- $25-$42 and up (registration)
- 1141 Uptown Park Blvd., Houston
- www.runsignup.com/runwild5K2015
Freedom over Texas
The annual celebration at Eleanor Tinsley Park will feature performances from Keith Urban and Los Lonely Boys as well as a Texas-sized fireworks finale.
- July 4, 3-10 p.m.
- $16.50 (general admission), free (children 12 and under)
- 18-3600 Allen Parkway, Houston
- www.houstontx.gov/july4
