September

28–29 Fall Gift Market

St. Mary's Episcopal Church kicks off the holidays with a gift market offering jewelry, home dcor, handmade gifts, pottery, flowers and clothing for women and children. Gifts and activities are available from 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Free.15415 N. Eldridge Parkway, Cypress, www.stmaryscypress.org

28–Oct. 6 Waller County Fair

This year, the fair will include carnival games and rides, vendors, animal shows, beauty pageants, rodeo and live performances by Kevin Fowler (Sept. 29), Jake Hooker (Oct. 4), Cory Morrow, Cody Johnson (Oct. 5) and Jerrod Neimann (Oct. 6). Ticket prices vary. Season passes: $25 (advance), $30 (at gate). Daily admission for Sept. 28–30 and Oct. 2–6: $10 (adults) $5 (kids, seniors). Daily admission for Sept. 29 after 4 p.m.: $15. Daily admission for Oct. 1: $5 (adults) $2 (kids, seniors). 22000 Fairground Road, Waller. 979-826-2825, www.wallercountyfair.org.

29 Fall Fashion Luncheon and Fashion Show

The Teen Life center, formerly known as Cypress Calling Ministries, hosts its 2012 fundraiser at the Metropolitan Baptist Church in Building C. The event begins at 11 a.m and includes lunch, a fashion show and a keynote speech by best-selling author Karol Ladd. $25. Metropolitan Baptist Church, 13000 Jones Road, Houston. 832-593-8336, www.tlchouston.org

October

4–7 Greek Fest in Montrose

The 46th annual Greek Festival will be held at the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral complex near downtown Houston and the Museum District. Events include a tour of the cathedral, Greek folk dancing and music, gift shops, a variety of Greek food and an Athenian playground. 5–10 p.m. (Thursday); 11 a.m.–3 p.m., 5–10 p.m. (Friday); 11 a.m.–10 p.m. (Saturday); noon–6 p.m. (Sunday). $5. Free shuttle service from Lamar High School. 3511 Yoakum Blvd., Houston. 713-526-5377, www.greekfestival.org

5–6 Cole's Crossing Holiday Market

Crafts, gift ideas and stocking stuffers are sold by local vendors during the community's annual holiday market, which is hosted by the Cole's Crossing Homeowners Association. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. (Oct. 5), 9 a.m.–4 p.m. (Oct. 6). Free. 13050 Barker Cypress Road, Cypress. 281-795-0101,www.colescrossinghoa.com

6 Saint Maximillian Kolbe Catholic Community Fall Festival

The annual fall festival will feature a petting zoo, camel rides, games, mechanical bull, moonwalk, maze, giant slide, kiddy train, obstacle course, silent auction, white elephant, crafters, vendors, food, music and fellowship. 10 a.m.–8 p.m. 10135 West Road, Houston. 713-856-9609, www.stmaximillian.org

6 ZiegenBock Music Festival

The 10th annual festival is a general admission standing room only, open-air, event featuring dozens of live country performances throughout the day. The festival takes place in the grass area next to the race park and hosted more than 22,000 fans last year. Blankets and lawn chairs are allowed at all concert events and are available for sale. This year, more than 30 bands are expected to perform. Headliners include Ryan Bingham, David Nail and Kevin Fowler. Rain or shine, the show is open to all ages. $16–$20 (pre-order), $25 (at door). Gates open at noon. Sam Houston Race Park, 7575 N. Sam Houston Parkway W., Houston. 800-211-3381, www.shrp.com

6–Nov. 25 Texas Renaissance Festival

Visitors from Houston and all over Texas travel to the Texas Renaissance Festival every year for daily live performances, themed weekends, gift shops and traditional food. This year's themed weekends range from Barbarian Invasion to Pirate Adventure to All Hallows Eve. While turkey legs may be one of the most popular meal choices, the festival offers funnel cakes, German dishes, Polish food, kettle corn, numerous desserts and adult beverages. 9 a.m.–8 p.m. $12 (children), $25 (adults), group and discount ticket prices vary. 21778 FM 1774, Todd Mission. 800-458-3435,www.texrenfest.com

11–14 Festa Italiana

Houstonians interested in the Italian culture come together annually for this festival, which features live entertainment—from grape stomping to a pasta eating contest—to music, food and children's activities. There is also an Italian Culture stage, which will have movies about Italy, language classes and culture activities. 5 p.m.–10 p.m. (Oct. 11), 11 a.m.–10 p.m. (Oct. 12-13), 11 a.m.–6 p.m. (Oct. 14). $8. University of St. Thomas, 3800 Montrose Blvd., Houston. 713-524-4222, www.houstonitalianfestival.com

13 Houston Margarita Festival

One of the more popular drinks in Houston, the margarita is the centerpiece for this annual festival. This year, there are cash-prize competitions in salsa dancing and the limbo. Live musical performances from bands and individual artists are spread throughout the event. Noon–10 p.m. Must be 21 to enter. $15 (general admission), $10 (designated driver ticket), $60 (full access). Discovery Green Park, 1500 McKinney, Houston. 1-877-772-5425, www.houstonmargaritafest.com

13 Girlfriends Gift Market

The women's ministry at Good Shepherd United Methodist Church host this event, which raises money to help with domestic and international mission opportunities. Visitors can find crafts, clothing, jewelry, yard art, home decor and a bake sale at the annual market. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. $1 (love offering). Good Shepherd UMC, 20155 Cypresswood Drive, Cypress. www.goodchurch.us

13 Creekfest

The second annual event is hosted by the Houston Northwest Chamber of Commerce and takes place in the heart of the Cypress Creek Cultural District, which includes the area's museum, library, visual and performing arts and park facilities. There will be numerous family, outdoor and cultural events, ranging from an urban adventure run to a marketplace to outdoor chalk art. Several food vendors will be set up between The Centrum and the Pearl Fincher Museum. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Free. Locations vary. 281-440-4160, www.creekfesthouston.com

13–14 Katy Rice Harvest Festival

More than 40,000 people are expected to attend the 32nd annual event that features vendor booths, live entertainment, food and carnival rides in the heart of downtown Katy. This year, Folk Family Revival, Scooter Brown Band, The Trishas and Bri Bagwell will perform at the festival, among others. Vendors offer various types of festival fare, ranging from roasted corn to turkey legs to pizza to sausage on a stick. 10 a.m.–midnight (Sat.), Noon–6 p.m. (Sun.) $8 (admission), $20 (carnival rides). Downtown Katy. 281-391-5289, www.riceharvestfestival.org

13–14 Bayou City Art Festival

More than 300 artists from around the nation gather to display their art available for purchase at the Bayou City Art Festival. Live music performances and concessions are also available at the festival, which is centered around Houston City Hall in downtown. 10 a.m.–6 p.m. $12. 1113 Vine St., Houston. 713-521-0133, www.bayoucityartfestival.com.

19–20 Judy Dierker Holiday Market

Crafts, clothing, home decor items and baked goods are just a few of the items that can be found at the Judy Dierker Holiday Market. 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Free. The Foundry Church, 8350 Jones Road, Houston. 713-937-9388, www.foundrychurch.org

21 St. Katharine Drexel Catholic Church Bazaar

This annual event features a live auction, vendor booths, silent auction and games for the entire family. Food, including Mexican and barbecue, will also be available. 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Free. Knights of Columbus Hall, 22892 Mack Washington Lane, Hempstead. www.stkathdrexel.org, 979-826-2275

20 Cypress Bible Church Fall Festival

Volunteers are preparing for the fall festival at Cypress Bible Church by collecting individually wrapped candy. The festival will provide guests with free inflatables, hot dogs and candy, along with the chance to win a flat screen TV. 3 p.m.–6 p.m. Free. 11711 Cypress N. Houston, Cypress. 281-469-6063, www.cypressbible.org

20-21 PetFest

The goal of this annual festival is to find homes for animals in shelters around the Houston area. Visitors can also bring their own pets to the event, which will include events such as pet dock diving, pet races, vaccinations, raffle prizes and a blessing of the pets. The theme of this year's PetFest is Woofstock–Peace, Love and Paws. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. (Oct. 20), 11 a.m.–5 p.m. (Oct. 21). Free. Old Town Spring, 403 Main Street, Spring. 281-528-7070, www.petfestoldtown spring.com

26–27 Island Oktoberfest

German food, vendor booths, children's activities and live entertainment are part of the annual Galveston Island Oktoberfest celebration hosted by First Lutheran Church. Visitors can find gifts, arts, crafts and a cake wheel within the various vendor booths. The festival will offer imported German beer, along with pumpkin spice ale and a brew by St. Arnolds. This year's event will also feature the second annual German cake cook-off. 5 p.m.–11 p.m. (Oct. 26), 11 a.m.–11 p.m. (Oct. 27). Free. Downtown Galveston, 24th St. and Winnie St. 409-762-8477, www.galvestonoktoberfest.com

26–28 Dia De Los Muertos

Houston's Multicultural Education and Counseling Through the Arts organization will host its annual celebration to honor those who have already passed away and bring attention to the Latin American holiday. The festival includes an altar and visual art exhibit, artisan vendors, live entertainment and traditional food. An opening night celebration includes drinks, appetizers and a fashion show. $25 (Oct. 26), $35 (at the door). Free (Oct. 27–28). 7 p.m. (Oct. 26) 11 a.m.–7 p.m. (Oct. 27). 11 a.m.–6 p.m. (Oct. 28). 1900 Kane St., Houston. 713-802-9370, www.meca-houston.org

27 Howl-o-Ween Fest

The master-planned community of Bridgeland hosts this annual event, which features pumpkin carving, animal performances, a dog fashion show and costume contest, a pumpkin patch and pet vendors. In addition, Foundry Church will host its annual fall event during the festival, which includes bounce houses, a miniature train and carnival games. Several food trucks will be on-site throughout the day, including Custom Confections, Great American Cookie Company, Texas Best Snowballs, Kona Ice and Grill 'em Girls. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Free. Oak Meadow Park, 17730 House Hahl Road, Cypress. 281-213-9600, www.bridgeland.com/howl-o-ween-fest

28 Christ United Church Fall Festival

The church hosts its annual fall festival with a live auction, children's activities and a country store. There will also be barbecue and desserts. 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Free. Christ United Church, 14207 Telge Road, Cypress. 281-373-0395

28 Boo Bash

Trader's Village hosts the 13th annual event in which visitors are encourage to wear their Halloween costumes and enjoy the season's entertainment of live music, activities and plenty of trick-or-treating. Other highlights include face-painting, free giveaways and a giant maze. 1–4 p.m. Free. Traders Village, 7979 N. Eldridge Parkway, 281-890-5500, www.tradersvillage.com

November

1–4 International Quilt Festival

Organized by Quilts Inc., the International Quilt Festival Houston displays ornate quilt design for trade visitors in the textile industry from all over. Novices and experts come in large numbers to see an array of new designs, interesting patterns and cutting-edge machinery. Visitors and exhibitionsists who come to the George R. Brown Convention Center will see unique jewelry, various kits, hand dyed wearable and, of course, a plethora of quilts. A preview night takes place Oct. 31 from 7 p.m.–10 p.m. 10 a.m.–7 p.m. (Nov. 1–3), 10 a.m.–4 p.m. (Nov. 4). $12 (adults), $9 (seniors/students) $42 (full pass). 1001 Avenida De Las Americas, Houston. 713-781-6864, www.quilts.com

2–3 Champion Forest Baptist Church Christmas Wonderland Market

The 14th annual Christmas Wonderland Market has more than 200 vendors that sell hand-crafted gifts, food, fashion items and crafts. There are also door prizes to be given out and lunch in a covered tent outside. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Free. Champion Forest Baptist Church, 15555, Stuebner-Airline Road, Houston. 281-440-3800, www.championforest.org

2–4 Houston Comedy Film Fest

The fourth annual Houston Comedy Film Festival shows a series of 5-minute comedies made by 20 individual teams. Each team is given 50 hours to complete the film including script writing, camera work and editing. The final productions are screened over three nights at Alamo Drafthouse. The public then votes for which team should receive the audience-choice award. Alamo Drafthouse at West Oaks Mall, Ste. 429, 281-920-9211, www.drafthouse.com

3 Houston Korean Festival

This festival highlights Korean cultural performances, food and activities with traditional and contemporary art, music and demonstartions. 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Free. Discovery Green Park, 1500 McKinney St., Houston. www.koreanfestivalhouston.com

8–10 Nutcracker Market

This indoor craft, home and garden, and food fair offers visitors an early start to their holiday shopping. Items for sale include clothing, accessories, baking mixes and holiday decorations. Proceeds from the festival benefit the Houston Ballet's scholarship and educational programs. 10 a.m.–9 p.m. (Nov. 8–9), 10 a.m.–6 p.m. (Nov. 10), $12 (pre-order), $13 (at door). Reliant Center, One Reliant Park, Houston. 713-535-3231, www.houstonballet.org

10–11 Langham Creek Market and Craft Show

The annual event raises money for scholarships to benefit FFA members and features a variety of retail items including western wear and decor, home-cooked food, jewelry and toys. 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Sat., 9 a.m.–4 p.m., Sun. 11206 Telge Road, Cypress. 281-414-0487

17 CyFair Sugar Plum Market

For its second year, the CyFair Sugar Plum Market returns to the Berry Center. The holiday market features more than 80 specialty merchants offering holiday decor, home accessories, womens and childrens boutique clothing, jewelry and gourmet food. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Free. The Berry Center, 8877 Barker Cypress Road, Cypress. 281-610-8577

17–18 Via Colori

For two days, the streets of downtown Houston are transformed by the works of hundreds of artists. More than 240 local artists cover the sidewalks and streets with chalk murals. For the 7th annual event, the largest mural will be a recreation of the Houston skyline seen from four directions, which will give the viewer a 360-degree perspective. The project is led by renowned artist Douglas Rouse and is expected to be a record-breaking size. Other features include live music and refreshments. Proceeds assist the Center for Hearing and Speech. 10 a.m.–6 p.m. (Sat.), 10 a.m.–5 p.m. (Sun.), Free. Hermann Square at City Hall, 900 Bagby St., Houston. 713-520-8257, www.centerhearingandspeech.org/via-colori

17 Christmas at the Creek

Santa will be at Cypress Creek YMCA Shindeldecker Family Center for the Christmas at the Creek celebration Nov. 19. Along with various activities for the kids, refreshments and more than 50 vendors are also present. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Free. Cypress Creek YMCA, 19915 Hwy. 249, Houston. 281-517-3728, www.ymcahouston.org

18 Northwest Forest Holiday Market

There will be plenty of festive entertainment at the annual Holiday Market held at the Northwest Forest Conference Center. There will be vendor booths filling four separate building along with holiday inspired food and drinks. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Free. 12715 Telge Road, Cypress. 281-256-3548,www.northwestforest.com

22 Annual Thanksgiving Day Parade

The 63-year tradition is hosted by H-E-B this year and features a parade through downtown with floats, marching bands and even a visit from Santa. An estimated 400,000 people are expected to attend, and the event is televised nationally. 9–11 a.m. Free. Downtown Houston. www.ifest.org

December

1 Wee Wuns Holiday Market

Cypress United Methodist Church hosts the annual Wee Wuns Holiday Market, a place where more than 50 vendors come together to display handmade crafts and designs and serve refreshments from their bake shoppe including hot chocolate. Proceeds from the event go toward Wee Wuns Weekday Ministries. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Free. 13403 Cypress N. Houston Road, Cypress. 281-469-2058, www.cypressunited.org

7–9 Candlelight Tour

The Heritage Society celebrates its Candlelight Tour's 50th anniversary this year with artificial candlelight and extensive decorations throughout the historical neighborhood in and around Sam Houston Park. Each house was built between 1832 and 1905 and is decorated according to the period. Volunteers inside the homes show patrons the structure and tell old stories. To celebrate the event, the Houston Grand Opera Company performs at the Baker Playhouse while actors and singers roam the park for viewing and listening pleasure. Santa's workshop provides children a place to work on different crafts. Visitors are free to begin anywhere throughout the park's lit pathways. The Candlelight Cafe offers refreshment. Friday and Saturday 6:30–9:30 p.m. and Sunday 5–8 p.m. $15 (adults), $12 (seniors), $8 (students) Sam Houston Park, 1100 Bagby St., Houston. 713-655-1912,www.heritagesociety.org