The Beer Can House in Houston is something you've got to see. In 1968, John Milkovisch, a quirky, retired upholsterer for the Southern Pacific Railroad, began adding on to his home in a unique way... with aluminum from beer cans. Although Milkovisch claims the project didn't begin as a work of art, it's certainly ended up that way. Over 50,000 beer cans, which Milkovisch drank over the course of many years, now cover the home for what has been deem, "practical and decorative reasons." (http://www.beercanhouse.org/about.php) Not only is it a sight to see, it also helps keep the electricity bill down.
Milkovisch is quoted on www.thebeercanhouse.org, saying, "Some people say this is sculpture but I didn't go to no expensive school to get these crazy notions.”
You can view a gallery of photos, both past and present at TheBeerCanHouse.org, but it's worth the trip to Memorial Dr & Washington Ave. to see it in person.
Admission to The Beer Can House grounds is $1.00.
Guided Tours, including house exhibition, are available for $5.00.
Self-guided tours available for purchase in the gift shop
Location:
222 Malone Street
Houston, TX
Hours:
The Beer Can House is open Saturdays & Sundays, Noon - 5pm
Clutch City… this is for you. Yeah, so the Lakers won another championship, but that was last season. The 2010-2011 NBA season officially begins this Thursday, June 24, 2010 with the NBA Draft. Take part in the 2010-2011Rockets Draft Party at the House of Blues Concert Hall along with the Rockets Power Dancers, Clutch and the Launch Crew. Participate in contests for Rockets giveaways, including autographed items and trips. Be on the look out for special guest appearances and speakers. Simply sign up to become a Rockets Insider Here, and you’ll be able to print a FREE ticket from home. Yes, this event is FREE.
*Make sure your date is a sports fan before dragging him/her on this date.
Go Rockets!!!
Thursday, June 24
Presented by Toyota
House of Blues Concert Hall
Doors Open at 5:30 pm
1204 Caroline (@ Dallas), 77002
*The Concert Hall is located on the 3rd floor*
If you've always wanted to see the Willy Wanka Chocolate Factory come to life... visit The Chocolate Bar. Like a kid in a candy store, you'll go gaga for the never-ending anything-you-want-covered-
in-chocolate creations. You'll need several weeks to try everything. Chocolate drinks, chocolate cakes, chocolate ice cream, chocolate cookies, chocolate popcorn, chocolate pizza, chocolate chocolate... the menu goes on and on. They even have sugar-free and gluten-free options.
The best thing about chocolate is its amazing ability to enhance one's mood. Although not proven to be an aphrodisiac, the simple act of indulging in a wonderful piece of heaven can cause someone to be overcome with happiness and pleasure. If you're present at the height of happiness and pleasure, your significant other just might attribute those feelings to you! The rest will be history.
2 Locations:
1835 W. Alabama
Houston, TX 77098
713.520.8599
Rice Village
2521 University Boulevard.
Houston, TX 77005
713.520.8888
"Music and fireworks will fill the air with a summer concert series with fireworks at Moody Gardens. The Bands on the Sand Friday night concert series will kick off June 18 at Palm Beach.
This eight-week event is scheduled for 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. and features some of the best local and regional bands on the Gulf Coast. Admission is just $6. Concert goers can enjoy live music with a different style of music each week ranging from rock, to blues to beach bands. Guests can enjoy a view of Offatts Bayou and a fireworks display following each show. Galveston Native, Hamilton Loomis, opens the Bands on the Sand season as he splices blues and rock and blends it for the contemporary ear.
Admission to the Bands on the Sand Concerts is included with a Palm Beach ticket or just $6 after 6 p.m. on concert dates. Tickets can be purchased at moodygardens.org/concerts/. For more information about Moody Gardens, call 800-582-4673 or visit moodygardens.org.
Bands on the Sand Concert Schedule:
June 18: Hamilton Loomis, 6 p.m. - 10 p.m., $6
June 25: Mambo Jazz Kings, 6 p.m. – 10 p.m., $6
July 2: Ezra Charles & Texas Blues Band, 6 p.m. - 10 p.m., $6
July 9: Radio London, 6 p.m. – 10 p.m., $6
July 16: Vertigo, 6 p.m. – 10 p.m., $6
July 23: D.R.U.M., 6 p.m. - 10 p.m., $6
July 30: James Reese Band, 6 p.m. – 10 p.m., $6
August 6: The Intercoastal Pirates, 6 p.m. - 10 p.m., $6"
I love wine. I love food. It's as if this week was created specifically for me! The 6th annual Wine and Food Week encompasses a week-long celebration of culinary and wine mastery. Regardless of your schedule and pocketbook, you'll find over 20 events to attend this week with your significant other. From encounters of the casual kind with Sip, Suds & Sliders to a night of lavishing finds at Frosted! Sip, Sparkle, & Shine, you're sure to find the perfect event to suit your taste and tastebuds.
Location: The Woodlands, TX
Dates: June 14-20, 2010
Hours: Vary
21 and Up to purchase tickets.
Additional Info:
Food and Vine Time Productions
13518 North Tracewood Bend
Houston, Texas 77077
713-557-5732 (office)
713-481-9831 (fax)
info@foodandvinetime.com
If you love her, you'll jump out of a plane for her. You're that crazy. Now, I'm not convinced that skydiving is the best "first date" date, but it certainly a quick way to learn about your mate. How do they deal with fear (of heights maybe), or listening (to instructions on pulling the parachute cord)?? And how do they look in goofy goggles and a snug onesie? Oh the things you'll learn...
If you've ever wanted to skydive or are searching for cool date ideas, today is the day to buy tickets. Why? Because, today's GROUPON is "45% off Skydiving" at Houston Skydiving. Normally a $179 value, you'll get if for $99 for the next 2 days. Here's a link to the coupon:
If ya don't know, now ya know... Houston has a Major League Soccer Team. Now, I know this is Texas, land of the football-bred child, where heroes are Heisman Trophy Winners and the only acceptable day to miss religious services is Super Bowl Sunday. But, the Houston Dynamo deserve our support just like the Texans, the Longhorns - Hook em! (whoops - sorry Aggies) and your high school alma mater.
In their first 2 seasons, 2006 & 2007, the Dynamo won the MLS Cup Champions, which is something to be proud of and another reason to offer support. Games are exciting, and when we score, feel free to yell, "GOOOOOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
I grew up in the 80s watching my dad compete in semi-pro bowling leagues, traveling around town to bowling alleys whose interiors were stuck in the 60s and 70s. Each one was fairly similar in that they reaked of stale cigarette smoke and served cold cheese nachos, but made up for such errors with rad pinball machines. Although some bowling alleys are still trapped in the mid 20th century, others, i.e.Lucky Strike Lanes & Lounge have embraced modernized interiors and delectable grub.
It's swanky decor adds a sexy twist to bowling. Delicious cocktails and appetizers will keep you energized and may even help your bowling gam. Get a group together and reserve the intimate Luxe suite, which has 4 private lanes, it's own bar and a huge projection screen. It may be a bit pricier compared to you old bowling alley, but you can avoid that by making reservations during happy hour, weekedays (3pm-7pm) or reverse happy hour, Sunday-Thursday (10pm-close). Book in advance as they don't take same-day reservations.
Location:
1201 San Jacinto St.
Houston, TX 77002 (Downtown)
Phone: 713.343.3300
Fax: 713.343.3301
I live for a fantastic view. As a result, I'm always on the lookout for the best view a city has to offer. For Houston, that view can be found at the JPMorgan Chase Tower's Sky Lobby. Rising 75 stories high, the Chase Tower is the tallest building, not only in Houston, but also in Texas. In addition, it's the tallest "5-sided structure" in the world. One of six express elevators will shoot you up to the 60th floor Sky Lounge at 1000ft per minute for the best view in Houston. It's free and open to the public from 8am-5pm M-F. Share the view with your date!
Cirque du Soleil, which translates in English to, “Circus of the Sun” is not the circus of your childhood. You won’t see a ringmaster eating fire or domesticating a liger, and you’ll have to check out Barnum & Bailey’s if it’s the elephant conga line you desire. You will see performers flying through the air and configuring their bodies in ways you’ve never imagined, with strength and flexibility you simply cannot fathom. You’ll also see out-of-this world costume and make-up design, and experience a storyline deep-rooted in the passing of power, the evolution of society and its social boundaries. You’ll be moved by the powerful voice of, “The White Singer” and feel the sounds of acoustical instruments that entangle “ jazz, pop, tango and klezmer,” in Cirque du Soliel’s, Alegria.
AlegrÃa comes to Cypress (NW Houston) June 16-20, 2010
Tickets prices range from $ 32.00 to $95.00 and can be bought HERE
OR....
Members of TravelZoo can buy tickets at $30-$40 off regular prices if bought by Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Level 1 and 2 seats are $50 (reg. $80) for adults and $24
(reg. $64) for children for the following performances:
- Wednesday, June 16 at 7:30 p.m.
- Thursday, June 17 at 7:30 p.m.
- Friday, June 18 at 3:30 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.
Click below to purchase tickets at the discounted rate. Fees of up to $5.75 per ticket will be added. Discount Tickets!
As the summer heats up, I'm reminded that anytime is a good time to heat up our dating lives. And what could be hotter than a Hot Air Balloon Ride over the city? As a child, my uncle surprised me with a book written especially for me, which included my full name and a hot air balloon adventure. Since the day he gave me that book, I've been looking forward to my first balloon ride. What's more is that during the "Balloon Boy Hoax," or at least before police discovered it was a hoax, I was a bit jealous that a 6-year old was having the ride of his life while I was standing on the ground looking up in a daydream. If a children's book had that great of an effect on me, imagine the effect of the real thing on your significant other. What a great surprise! At least for those who don't suffer from acrophobia or a fear of heights. (check with him or her before scheduling this event!)
You'll find several Hot Air Balloon companies in Houston. If you're a bit more on the dangerous side, you might even try a glider. Check out the following websites fore more info:
Bear Creek Balloons
Bear Creek Balloons offers rides for just 2 (and a pilot) or for a group of 5-7
It's summer time, and the way I see it, that calls for time spent on a boat. Be it night or day, Star Fleet offers brunch and dinner cruises every weekend.
If you're a fan of the boardgame, Clue, try a Murder Mystery Dinner where, "the cruise ship is taken over by pirates in search of a treasure map, but the only person on board who knows about the gold is murdered! Find out who done it and why before the pirates force all the “land lovers” to walk the plank! Join us for this special production created by...MURDER BY CHOCOLATE."
If you can't wait for the 4th of July and big lights in the sky are more your flair, take the Friday Night Fireworks Cruise. Every Friday evening in June, you'll have the chance to dine over BBQ and experience an exciting fireworks display from Galveston Bay. You'll also enjoy music and a dance floor all night.
Prefer to cruise under the sun? Check out the Sunday Bottomless Brunch, where the term "Bottomless" refers to mimosas... not your attire. Dine on a gourmet brunch buffet and sip on endless champagne over entertainment and a Mardi Gras bead toss.
Check out the Star Fleet Yachts
website for the cruise calendar and to purchase tickets in advance. *Fireworks cruises sell out quickly.
Go-carts, Schmo-carts.. I'm looking for something a little more powerful... something with a little more action... something like, ATVs & Dune Buggies!!! Houston and its surrounding areas offer several rental options for ATVs and Dune Buggies. You'll have to venture outside the city limits to hit the sand in a buggy (but road trips are good for relationships!). If it's an ATV your heart is after, you won't have to look far. Make a date of it and take your honey on the ride of his/her life. Don't be afraid to get dirty!
Here are a few rental websites where you'll find more information including location and prices.
If it's offered in "3D" you can bet that I'm going to try it... mainly because I know I look good in 3D glasses and I want my date to see me lookin' even fly-er than I already am. As you can imagine, star gazing is a fairly romantic outing. Give the romance a boost and take your date to an up close and personal viewing of the stars at Hubble 3D - Wortham IMAX. I don't care how old you are, star gazing never goes out of style.
"Experience the gripping story—full of hope, crushing disappointment, dazzling ingenuity, bravery, and triumph—in Hubble 3D, the seventh awe-inspiring film from the award-winning IMAX Space Team.
Vividly captured in IMAX 3D, Hubble 3D recounts the amazing journey of the most important scientific instrument since Galileo’s original telescope and the greatest success in space since the Moon Landing—the Hubble Space Telescope. Audiences will accompany the space walking astronauts as they attempt some of the most difficult tasks ever undertaken in NASA’s history, and will experience up close the awesome power of the launches, the heartbreaking setbacks, and the dramatic rescues of this most powerful story.
Hubble 3D will also reveal the cosmos as never before, allowing viewers of all ages to explore the grandeur of the nebulae and galaxies, the birth and death of stars, and some of the greatest mysteries of our celestial surroundings, all in amazing IMAX 3D."
Two Special Offers!
Experience Hubble 3D for only $6 during HMNS' Free Permanent Exhibits Tuesdays. Click here for Coupon
Explore the Universe in both IMAX 3D and the Planetarium! Buy a ticket to Hubble 3D and get a ticket to see Life in the Universe in the Planetarium for just $5! Click here for Coupon
I love me some soul music (aka: baby-makin-music, which means this date idea is already off to a great start!) "Dancin' in the Street... Motown and More Revue" at Miller Outdoor Theatre. "This electrifying and soulful revue features many of Houston's most talented vocalists and dancers accompanied by the 23-piece soulful BASEMENT orchestra. Dancin' in the Street…Motown and More Revue features soul music from its inception in the 1950s through contemporary times. The BACE company recreates the music of legendary soul music greats as recorded by Motown, STAX, Atlantic, Philadelphia International, Duke and Peacock and other labels." - Hyperlink toMillerOutdoorTheater
Miller Outdoor Theater is centrally located in Houston, Texas and within walking distance to several restaurants, bars and hotels.
Produced by BACE Productions and One Delta Plaza Educational Center
Dates:
Thursday, May 27th at 8:15 p.m.
Friday, May 28th at 8:15 p.m.
Saturday, May 29th at 8:15 p.m.
Sunday, May 30th at 8:15 p.m.
Location
Miller Outdoor Theatre
100 Concert Dr.
Houston, TX 77030
Hello weekend!!! Sometimes getting outta the city for a bit and enjoying a slower pace of life is all we need to refocus for next week's work week. Think about heading down to Galveston tonight where the island folk somehow seem a bit more relaxed than the rest of us. Enjoy some seafood (while it lasts & before the oil spill gets the best of us) and take a stroll on the sand before heading to the Courtyard Caffe. "Every Friday evening, guests are invited to The Courtyard Caffe for its weekly Drum Circle, beginning at 9pm and continuing to close. During this festive weekly event, you'll enjoy everything from African drums, to belly dancing, to African chants. All are welcome, and admission is free." This place is so cute and a great date place or for a big group of friends.
"On Saturday, May 22nd, Dance Houston is proud to present its eighth annual City-Wide Dance Festival, showcasing the most exciting dancers local to Houston. The event will be held at the Wortham Center in the Cullen Theater and will feature over a hundred Houston-area dancers on one stage.
This annual festival focuses on presenting traditional and innovative performances in hip hop, bollywood, contemporary, ballet, and cultural styles. In presenting this popular festival, Dance Houston looks year round to showcase the best local dance companies that may or may not be well known.
This year, the lineup includes Phillip Chbeeb (SYTYCD), Dominic Walsh Dance Theater, Inertia, Houston Ballet II, Noblemotion, Monsoon Moves, Revolve, and U of H Alpha Phi Alpha Steppers, winners of the Sprite Step Off 2010 National Championship.
"We want people to see that their unique backgrounds make a significant contribution to today's dance culture", says Andrea Cody, Founder and Executive Director of Dance Houston.
Cody was inspired by a dance festival in Chicago that unites the local dancers together so the community can catch them all in one place. She wants to give Houston the same chance to see its dance community come together in a festival that is appealing, culturally relevant, fun and affordable.
Throughout the year, Dance Houston presents high quality festivals featuring Houston's favorite dancers and companies. The City-Wide Dance Festival continues to be the biggest and most popular event presented by Dance Houston. Curtain at 8pm."
Cost
Payment required. Tickets range from $15-$44.50 with special VIP tickets* and are available at www.dancehouston.org. *seated with Dance Houston artists, staff and board. Also includes access to exclusive downtown after-party with artists. ($100)
Where:
Cullen Theatre - Wortham Center
5oo Prairie - Prairie At Texas
Houston, TX
Gone are the days of drive-in movie theaters... you'll have to drive outside the city limits and into small towns to find such a thing. But, now are the days of, "Screen on the Green" at Discovery Green in downtown Houston. Have you been to this park yet?? Go!
On any given Friday evening, Screen on the Green presents silent films, black and white films and contemporary movies for your entertainment. Movies start at dusk and include a wide variety of showings from the "African Film Festival Traveling Series" (June 25, 2010), to "School of Rock" (May 28, 2010). Pack a blanket to sit on, some snacks and some boxed wine in a cooler and enjoy the evening with your significant other. What a romantic and out-of-the-ordinary date idea.
Check out the Calendar of Events
calendar of events to find a showing and date that interests you.
A hidden Houston treasure, Last Concert Cafe seems other-worldly when compared to your usual Tex-Mex restaurant. The Bohemian vibe will have you forgetting you're in downtown Houston as you indulge in great live music and good-for-your-body&soul grub. Tucked away between a few ramshackled houses on Nance St. in Houston's old warehouse district, you may have to look hard to find the obscure red and white building, which boasts no apparent signage. Finding the front door locked as it always is, you'll impress your date by knocking on the door and requesting entrance for dinner and drinks. While you won't find the most elegant of all interiors, you will find a patio equipped with sand and hula hoops (for use in the event you want to work off those enchiladas you just downed or if you just want to have a hula hoop war with your significant other). An eclectic group of people and the great live music will set the stage for a fun and eventful night out with your sweetie.
Details:
Last Concert Cafe
1403 Nance St.
Houston, TX 77002
Happy Monday Houston! If you've got a "case of the Mondays" and want something to look forward to when the workday ends, plan on Comedy Open Mic Night @Sherlock's Baker Street Pub River Oaks location. Every Monday is Open Mic Night. It's free admission and dirt cheap drinks for you and your honey. Comedy Open Mic night is always interesting and good for a few laughs...and I think we could all use that on a Monday.
Location:
Sherlock's Baker Street Pub
1952 W Gray St
Houston, TX 77019
713-521-1881
Guys... if you love your lady at all, or have any interest in her whatsoever, take her to see what Entertainment Weekly deems, "the best musical of the decade," Wicked - the Untold Story of the Wizard of Oz. Even if you're not into musicals, this move will score you a thousand bonus points with her. Ladies, if you need to drop the hint, do so now, because this Broadway and West End musical is on the horizon and is certain to sell out quickly.
**Snuggle up with your significant other before the show and watch the entirety of the original Wizard of Oz, so that you'll have a better understanding of the storyline.
Although the Wicked doesn't roll into town until the end of June, I recommend getting your tickets asap. So, even if you're single and not sure who to invite, go ahead and buy a couple just so you're prepared when Ms. Right shows up. It's beats the alternative... some other guy taking Ms. Right to see Wicked.
If, like me, you are obsessed with all things Italian (fashion, music, design, language, food, wine, cars, romance, people, culture) and you haven’t had the opportunity to take your significant other on an extravagant getaway to this romantic land, AND you aren’t so excited about attending the “Body Art Expo,” which was yesterday’s date idea and happens to fall on the same weekend, then you should definitely consider visiting the Italian Expo!!!
The Italian Expo will feature artists, including the ever popular Italian Street Paintersdoing live demonstrations (so cool!), several Italian-bred fashion, furniture, car and industrial designers, food and wine vendors (and that means free tastings of wine, gelato & specialty dishes), as well as a live broadcast of the final UEFA Champions League Game from Santiago Bernabeu Stadium in Madrid between Italian team FC Inter Milan and Bundesliga team Bayern Munich!nal
For a full list of vendors including fabulous Italian restaurants like Arcodoro and Ristorante Cavour, trip information and deals, motorized vehicles from Vespa to Ferrari and more, CLICK HERE
***At the end of the weekend, you can look forward to the Continental Round-trip giveaway for 2 to Italy and perhaps make your dreams of that romantic getaway come true!
When:
Friday, May 21 - Sunday, May 23, 2010
Where:
George R. Brown Convention Center, Hall A
1001 Avenida De Las Americas
Houston, TX 77010
Ph: (713) 853-8000
The BODY ART EXPO, also known as the world's largest tattoo expo, is coming to Houston this month! Tattoo lover or not (I, for one, have none), this is sure to be an interesting date for you and your beau, and it's a great option for beating the heat over the weekend.
The weekend long festivities include:
*Tattoo Contests (in every category you can imagine)
*Fashion Shows
*"Win a Tattoo" Contest (if that's your forte)
*Prize Giveaways
"Come feast your eyes with the world's largest Tattoo Expo and Gigantic Skin Show Off Party." bodyartexpo.com
HOUSTON TATTO EXPO
Event Takes Place May 21-23
Hours:
FRI 2 PM - 11 PM
SAT 11 AM- 11 PM
SUN 11 AM - 8 PM
Tickets are $22.00 for a one day pass and $45.00 for a three day pass.
Tickets will be sold only at the official ticket office at the main entrance to the sho
Where:
Reliant Park
1 Reliant Park
Houston, TX 77054
832-667-1400
Being a huge fan of Argentina wines, I feel compelled to bring this event to your attention. Starting Wednesday, May 12 - May 25, Central Market will be offering a full schedule of cooking classes, wine tastings and events centered around Argentinean lifestyle. A few events are geared particularly towards couples; however, most of the options are completely couple appropriate. Don't miss out on this opportunity of fabulous eats and libations, including appearances by several celebrity chefs and extraordinary winemakers of the region. What a great way to spend a date and learn more about Argentinean culture together.
Below is a partial list of classes and events you can enjoy this week.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
10:30am-12pm: Empanadas Mendocinas
4:00pm-7:00pm: Ben Marco Malbec & Mapena Sauvignon Wine Tasting
6:30pm-9:00pm: COUPLES Steaks on the Grill
7:30pm: Tango The Movie @ Studio Movie Grill Center
Thursday, May 13, 2010
2:00pm-3:00pm: Tea Time - Yerba Mate & Sopapillas
4:00pm-7:00pm: Susana Balbo Wine Tasting
6:30pm-9:00pm: Winemakers Diner with Susana Balbo
Friday, May 14, 20010
10:00am-11:30am: Spice Up Your Meals - Argentine Sauces
4:00pm-7:00pm: Luca Wine Tasting
6:30pm-9:00pm: Winemaker Dinner with Laura Catena
To see the fully loaded calendar visit CentralMarket.com and follow the links to "Cooking Classes" & the Houston store. I'll post more next week!
Who needs Napa Valley when you can enjoy the vineyards and wineries right here in Houston, Texas (or close to it)? Okay, if you’re a wino or a travel enthusiast like me, you may need Napa at some point, but you can still enjoy the local wines of Texas in the meantime. Schedule a day trip with your date and take spend some time learning about a variety of wines. Browse the websites listed to below to find a winery near you and explore their calendars for special events, tours and wine tastings. You’ll find all the information you need for your vineyard/winery visits including directions, phone numbers, and hours of operation. Enjoy!
Explore Houston from a new perspective... in a canoe or kayak. Glide through Buffalo Bayou in a tandem (2-seater) kayak fit for you and your date. Make a reservation (required) for a guided tour (May 15 & June 19) as you paddle from Shepherd to Allen's Landing and finally ending downtown, where you'll be shuttled back to your car. If you prefer a more private trip with your date, feel free to go alone and rent a kayak or canoe through any of the following companies:
North Lake Conroe Paddling Co. (kayak’s only) 936.203.2697
Southwest Paddlesports 281.292.5600
REI www.rei.com
ACK Canoesport www.austinkayak.com
SouthWest PaddleSports www.paddlesports.com
Houston Rowing Club www.houstonrowing.com 281.532.1518
For more information call the Buffalo Bayou Partnership at 713.752.0314 ext. 3 or e-mail tsmith@buffalobayou.org
Pontoon Boat tours
The boat picks up at Sabine Street Bridge North Boat Landing. No reservations are required. First come, first serve for the 20 person boat. Tours occur on the following dates:
May 8
June 12
July 10
August 14
September 11
October 9
November 13
December 11
Cost: $7.00 for adults, $5.00 for children
***Cash only***
Parking available on Sabine Street Bridge and in City Lot H
*Waugh Bridge Bat Colony Pontoon Boat Tours
Second & Fourth Fridays of the month, March-October
Tours begin 45 minutes before dusk (weather permitting)
$35 per adult; $25 per child (ages 4-12) no children under 4
Dates: March 12 & 26
April 9 & 23
May 14 & 28
June 11 & 25
July 9 & 23
August 13 & 27
September 10 & 24
October 8 & 22
For more information, call 713.752.0314 ext. 4 or e-mail jballard@buffalobayou.org
Looking for something to do with your love this weekend? Take part as a spectator of the Art Car Parade Weekend 2010. Festivities kick off today, Thursday, May 6, 2010 and run through this Sunday, May 9, 2010. I'm copying the details of the Art Car Weekend in this note. But you can visit the Art Car Festival website for more information.
Art Car Weekend 2010 - 4 Days of Fabulous Events!
Art Car Ball "The Legend Returns"
Thursday, May 6, 2010 7pm-11pm
It’s baaaaack! For the first time in eight years, artists and fans will come together to celebrate and set the party mood for the weekend’s events. On Thursday, May 6 the public can enjoy live music, yummy food, spirits, performance art and fire-breathing cars as the night’s celebrated stars – the Art Car artists – become the center of attention. On the indoor stage, headliners include Southern Backtones and Flamin’ Hellcats. On the outdoor stage you can catch Kozmic Pearl and Herschel Berry and the Natives. Be sure you come in style for the costume contest, illuminated costumes are encouraged! EMCee by The ART GUYS. Tickets are $25 in advance or $30 at the door. Go here for tickets. (Food and drink for sale all night!)
NOTE: if you purchase Art Car Ball tickets via the website your name will be added to the "will call" list located at the entrance to the PAR-TAYYYYY! See you there.
Main Street Drag - Friday, May 7, 2010
Held on Friday morning, Main Street Drag is the official start of Art Car Weekend. Caravans of Art Cars visit more than 20,000 people who otherwise may not be able to experience the Saturday Parade. “The Drag” stops at children’s hospitals, schools, community centers and senior living facilities to spread smiles and the creative spirit with more than 80 Art Cars participating.
There is no charge for this event but you must register in advance. To request a school visit please contact the Orange Show.
Sneak Peek at Discovery Green, presented by Opportunity Houston
Friday, May 7, 2010 6pm-9pm
Parade-goers can get a preview of the newest Art Cars, along with some old favorites, at "Sneak Peek" which takes place Friday, May 7, from 6-9 pm at Discovery Green. Sponsored by Opportunity Houston and Discovery Green, Sneak Peek will feature live music and entertainment throughout the park by Grimy Styles and Foot Patrol. As the sun goes down, the park will be filled with illuminated Art Cars outfitted with special night lighting. Check out the arts and crafts activities for the kids!
The Art Car Parade - a major Houston Texas attraction
The Houston Art Car Parade
Saturday, May 8, 2010
(PARADE ROLLS AT 1PM)
HAVE YOU HEARD THE NEWS??? Emmy-award winning actor and famed "Blues Brother" Dan Aykroyd will lead the way as the grand marshal of the 23rd Annual Art Car Parade on Saturday, May 8 at 1pm. Downtown Houston will come to life when more than 250 "motoriffic" mobile masterpieces hit the pavement.
As a free BYOG (bring your own goodies- lawn chairs, water, treats, no dogs please) event, the Parade has become a nationwide phenomenon and continues to bring out the artist in everyone. This year's spectacle is expected to draw a crowd of 250,000 fans from across the map and approximately 250 local, national and international artists will transform everyday automobiles into one-of-a-kind creations meant to amuse, inspire, enlighten and entertain.
Presented by the Orange Show Center for Visionary Art, the award-winning Parade preserves and promotes visionary art environments and provides opportunities to discover and celebrate the artist in everyone. At the biggest and best Art Car Parade on earth, the Orange Show dares ogling onlookers to discover their inner artists and to seek inspiration from stunners ranging from an exact replica F-18 fighter jet car to one inspired by the Beatles classic "Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds."
Be sure to also check out:
Art Car Fun Zone at Sam Houston Park, presented by CLEAR
Parade-goers will find activities aplenty: sand castle creations, arts and crafts, Art Car painting, food, drinks, $25 reserved bleacher seating (call 713-926-6368 for availability) and good times at the Houston Public Library summer reading program. Art Car Parade attendees will be one of the first to have a chance to check out CLEAR, a super fast, 4G mobile Internet service, new to Houston.
Blues SchoolHouse Program
Also at Sam Houston Park, the International House of Blues Foundation (IHOBF) will present its Blues SchoolHouse Program, a live musical presentation that traces the history of the blues from its roots in African musical traditions through its emergence as an American musical form and its influence on other forms of music including jazz, R&B, rock and roll, soul, funk and rap.
VIPit Party - The Place to be on Parade Day 11am-3pmThe Art Car Parade - a major Houston Texas attraction
VIPit Party at the Houston Heritage Society (ticketed event) provides the absolute best views of the Art Car Parade, plus shaded bleacher seating, live Parade commentary, open bar and tasty treats from some of Houston's best restaurants including Beaver's, Blue Bunny, California Pizza Kitchen, El Patio, Freebirds, Natachee's Restaurant & Bar, Paula's Texas Spirits, Raising Canes, Ruggles Green, Saint Arnold Brewing Company, Silver Eagle, The Chocolate Bar, Vietnam Restaurant, IKEA and Crystal Head Vodka. Edgar "The Big E" Salazar will be performing.
* Individual tickets are $125 and can be purchased here.
* Tickets for children under 12 are $15 and can be purchased here.
* Art Car Angel Packages for 10 are available for $1,250
* Art Car STAR Packages for 25 are available for $3,750
This is a ticketed event - register and purchase tickets here or please call 713-926-6368. Money raised helps to keep the parade free for everyone.
NOTE: if you've purchased VIPit tickets via the website your name will be on the "will call" list at the entrance to VIPit.
Art Car Artists Awards Ceremony & Brunch -
Sunday, May 9th 11am-2pm
The last blast of the weekend takes place on Sunday afternoon, this year at the Continental Club, 3700 Main Street. The Art Car Awards Ceremony and Brunch feature live music and entertainment, food and drink, and artists selling their creations. This year’s winners will be announced at the awards ceremony with more than $10,000 in cash and prizes going to the best Art Car creations in 14 categories.
Nothing says "sexy" like a woman packin' heat. We're in Texas folks; take advantage of the lenient gun laws and work on your aim. Even better... do so with your woman! According to an article from www.texaslesstraveled.com, "it is estimated that Texans own around 51 million firearms." Interesting fact given that the population of Texas is only 24.8 million; That's nearly 2 guns to every person in the Lone Star State! Regardless of your opinion on gun laws or guns in general, don't miss the opportunity to educate yourself on how to use a firearm...safely and with proper ambition. I'm not suggesting you buy one. I'm not even suggesting that, "guns don't kill people, people kill people," because the first part of that statement simply isn't bona fide. What I am suggesting is that you experience the thrill of firing a weapon and holding a "best aim competition" with your date. And, if you feel the compulsion, go ahead and attempt to obtain your CHL - Concealed Handgun License.
Happy Monday Houston! It's time to spice up your dating life and your restaurant habits. Houston is known for it's great restaurants, and given it's ranking as the 6th Fattest City in the U.S. (according to Men's Fitness magazine) it's clear that Houstonians like to eat! And we like to eat well! Instead of taking your date to Chili's again, make it a point to try new restaurants together in search of your favorite spot. Now, if your favorite spot is Chili's then have at it, but why not eat outside the box every now and then.
Get your hands on the Houston edition of Zagat,"the world's leading provider of consumer survey-based restaurant, nightlife, travel and leisure information, with more than 250,000 voters participating worldwide." Or subscribe online at Zagat Houston. Page through the thousands of restaurants and venue reviews to find one you're interested in or go for the old "Page-turn-Roulette." End the conversation that goes:
Him - "Where do you want to eat?"
Her - "I don't know, where do you want to eat?"
Him - "I don't care, your call."
Repeat.
My pick for the week is Saffron Moroccan Restaurant. Make reservations and experience Moroccan Cuisine and BELLY DANCING!! Yum!
Open Thursday through Saturday 5PM -11PM.
Belly dance show Thursdays 8:30PM,
Friday and Saturday two shows: 7:30PM & 9:30PM.
2006 Lexington St.
Houston, TX. 77098
713.523.5697
Ahhhhh, Sunday afternoon; a great day to "pretend house hunt" with your beau and dream about your future. I say pretend with the assumption that some of us are unmarried, unwilling or just plain financially inept and as such, unprepared to put 20% down on a $3.2 million dollar home in the city. However, we can still explore possibilities, ideas and architecture in Houston by checking out open house listings. Pick up the Sunday paper, the Houston Chronicle that is, and page through the real estate section where you'll find an endless list of open houses to choose from and visit. Map out your day by selecting a particular area of town (I tend to choose those with the most exquisite options). Most open houses are open to public viewing between 12pm-5pm and usually provide drinks and snacks depending on the realtor. Take advantage of this time to get to know your significant other a little better; you'll learn more about his/her preferred style of furnishings, wall color and architecture. Hopefully your styles mesh, but if they don't, better to find out early on and start negotiations. Visit a variety of residential spaces from downtown lofts to oversized lots and mansions. Have fun, but don't waste the realtor's time by acting overly interested if you have no intentions to by a house. Be careful not to act on impulse as these houses can be tempting to say the least!
*Visit www.har.com to search the "open house finder" or Click Here
Save for a dead kitten on my watch and under my tire, I find humor in nearly all situations. And not always on purpose, but certainly on cue. In some cases, that makes me a bad person, in others, a hero. It's not my goal to sway you in either direction (lies), I just want to tell you some stories.
