Launched in 2024, Discovery Green’s Art Lab is a groundbreaking mentorship program designed to support underrepresented local artists by equipping them with the skills and resources needed to expand their practices into large-scale, interactive outdoor public art. Navarro developed Chroma Collective while in the Art Lab program with mentoring from Brooklyn-based, internationally renowned artist Jen Lewin, Weingarten Art Group, Houston-based design firm MetaLab and Discovery Green Conservancy.

“Discovery Green is a place where our city’s diverse arts, talents and traditions converge,” said Kathryn Lott, president of Discovery Green Conservancy. “Chroma Collective reflects that spirit, inviting parkgoers to see themselves in its mirrored surfaces. Supporting emerging artists like Karen is central to our mission and the purpose of Discovery Green’s Art Lab mentorship program. We are thrilled to be presenting her work at the culmination of Art Lab’s inaugural cycle.”

Chroma Collective is a blend of two-dimensional imagery, three-dimensional sculpture and mirrored surfaces. Inspired by Navarro’s experience as an immigrant of Latin American, European and Indigenous descent, the piece explores the fluidity of identity while reflecting the people and environment around it. Chroma Collective draws from cultural influences, ranging from the colorful Aymara aguayo fabric to Houston’s rodeo traditions and its role as a welcoming home for immigrants. With sweeping curves and an open-ended design, the piece symbolizes progress, unity and the ongoing evolution of community.

Built from a sleek metal frame and UV-printed portraits, Chroma Collective features 31 columns and 93 panels portraying Houstonians and the artist herself whose shifting images reinterpret the cultural mix that defines both the artist and the city. As viewers rotate the panels, the portraits transform while iridescent surfaces mirror their surroundings — turning each encounter into a new layer of the work’s living tapestry. Its flowing, elongated form suggests a shared path, inviting reflection on how diverse voices continually shape and reshape the communities to which we belong.

“Chroma Collective is a mirror, a collective body. It’s playful and bright, but it also holds complexity—it’s about being seen, being counted and being in motion,” Navarro said.

Navarro is a Houston-based artist whose work explores identity, representation, race and belonging through photography, collage and sculpture. Drawing from her migrant experience, Indigenous heritage and the history of colonization, she investigates the complex intersections of history and personal narrative. Originally from Argentina, Navarro has exhibited her work globally.

“Being in Discovery Green’s Art Lab was an incredible experience and Jen Lewin was very generous with what she shared,” she added. “We had the opportunity in New York to sit in one of her regular staff meetings which was very insightful for learning how to manage multiple large-scale projects with a team.”

“Karen Navarro came into Art Lab ready to take the leap from her acclaimed photography practice into the realm of large-scale public art. Chroma Collective reflects that transition beautifully – it is ambitious, interactive, and personal while also mirroring the diversity and energy of Houston itself,” said Lea Weingarten, Principal at Weingarten Art Group. “Art Lab is a pivotal program not only for local artists, empowering them with the tools to expand their practice, but also for Houston in bringing new and original works into the public realm that invite all of us to see our city and each other in new ways.”

Art Lab is co-curated and co-administrated by Weingarten Art Group. It is funded by an anonymous national foundation. More information at www.discoverygreen.com/artlab.

# # #

ABOUT DISCOVERY GREEN^®

Discovery Green^® is a highly acclaimed 12-acre park in downtown Houston, Texas that is operated by the nonprofit Discovery Green Conservancy. Since opening in April 2008, the park has welcomed more than 20 million visitors. Discovery Green^® features sprawling lawns, a one-acre lake, an interactive fountain, a playground, public art installations, gardens and an allée of century-old live oaks. The Discovery Green Conservancy works with hundreds of programming partners to present artistic, musical, educational, family-friendly and health-focused events each year, most of which are presented free to the public. The park also features two on-site restaurants, the award-winning destination restaurant The Grove and the fast-casual The Lake House, providing visitors with an array of dining options. As a nonprofit organization, the Conservancy raises all the funds needed for the programming that Houstonians enjoy. For more information, please visit www.discoverygreen.com. Arts programming is made possible in part by the City of Houston through the Houston Arts Alliance.

SOCIAL MEDIA

Facebook: @DiscoveryGreenHouston

X (formerly Twitter): @DiscoveryGreen

Instagram: @DiscoveryGreen

Discovery Green. Reg. U.S. Pat. & Tm. Off.

The post Discovery Green® To Debut Chroma Collective, A Fall Pop-Up Installation By Former Art Lab Fellow Karen Navarro appeared first on Discovery Green.

Public art takes center stage with Chroma Collective, an immersive, interactive installation commissioned as part of Discovery Green’s inaugural Art Lab mentorship program, which is the first of its kind. Visitors are invited to move through and engage with a vibrant blend of two-dimensional imagery, three-dimensional sculpture, and mirrored surfaces, creating ever-changing reflections that make each experience unique. Conceived by artist Karen Navarro, the work explores the fluidity of identity and the beauty of Houston’s diversity.  

Fall also brings an abundance of special events for all ages. México en el Corazón fills the park with traditional dance, ballet folklórico, regional costumes and indigenous traditions on September 20. On October 25, the park transforms into a Halloween fright fest with Scream on the Green®, complete with a costume contest, games, music and an outdoor screening of Beetlejuice Beetlejuice. The season’s arts and cultural programming culminates with Día de los Muertos on November 2, featuring a sacred procession, a community ofrenda and a lively tribute concert to Texas musical legends. 

Bank of America’s Screen on the Green returns with family-friendly films under the stars, including A Minecraft Movie in September and The Nightmare Before Christmas in October. Movie-goers can come in costume to join the fun, with pre-movie games, photo opportunities, and activities adding to the festive atmosphere. Families can also enjoy the return of Toddler Tuesdays sponsored by Memorial Hermann GoHealth in October with themed story times, crafts and a special Halloween celebration. 

The beloved bumper boats and LED kayaks — which debuted this summer and quickly became a park favorite — will make a splashy return for the duration of the Houston Pumpkin Festival. Step into a storybook of fall magic at Discovery Green, where kids and grown-ups alike can bounce on giant pumpkins, stroll through sunflowers, and wander beneath glittering trees. Surrounded by the sights and colors of autumn, guests can also drift across the water aboard the whimsical bumper boats and kayaks, adding a playful twist to the season’s most-photographed tradition. This is a ticketed event, and a portion of each ticket sold helps support Discovery Green’s year-round free programming. 

Fitness presented by UTHealth Houston offers free classes for all levels throughout the season, from Hatha Yoga, Gentle Yoga Flow and Spanish Yoga, to the dynamic new Hip Hop Yoga and Spoken Word Flow series. Visitors can also keep Houston green with Recycling Saturdays in partnership with the City of Houston. 

Discovery Green is located at 1500 McKinney St. (Houston, TX 77010). Events are free and open to the public unless otherwise noted. All events are subject to change. Please visit discoverygreen.com for the latest updates and to RSVP for the events. 

ART 

Chroma Collective by Karen Navarro 

Friday, September 12 – Sunday, November 2 from 6 am – 11 pm 

Commissioned by Discovery Green Conservancy as part of the inaugural Art Lab program, Chroma Collective blends two-dimensional imagery with three-dimensional sculpture and mirrored surfaces that invites the public to interact and contribute to its dynamic, shifting tapestry. 

Inspired by Navarro’s journey as an immigrant of Latin American, European and Indigenous descent, Chroma Collective represents the fluidity of identity while reflecting the environment and the people who engage with the work. Its location in Discovery Green – a 12-acre oasis in the heart of the city – highlights how Houston’s diversity creates opportunities to celebrate individuality while cultivating collective action for a more equitable society.  

Navarro was one of the first fellows of Art Lab, Discovery Green’s new initiative to mentor underrepresented local artists and help them create large-scale, interactive public works that invite the community to become part of the art. Art Lab was co-created and co-curated by Discovery Green Conservancy and Weingarten Art Group. 

SPECIAL EVENTS  

Mexico en el Corazón  

Saturday, September 20 from 7 – 10 pm 

Celebrate the beauty of Mexican culture with the international touring company México en el Corazón. With more than 70 performers the evening promises a spectacular showcase of traditional Mexican dance, ballet folklorico, regional costuming, indigenous traditions and more. Attendees will also enjoy a special Flea by Night presented by Green Mountain Energy, a curated market featuring Latin food and vendors throughout the park.  

Scream on the Green® 
Saturday, October 25 from 6 – 9 pm 

Get ready for a frightfully fun night! Scream on the Green® is back with a popular costume contest, living sculptures, games, spooky music, photo opps and more. This Discovery Green celebration is a not to be missed tradition! A special outdoor screening of  Beetlejuice Beetlejuice will be held on the Grace Event Lawn starting at 7 pm. 

Beetlejuice Beetlejuice from 7 – 8:45 pm 

Still haunted by Beetlejuice, Lydia’s life gets turned upside down when her daughter discovers a portal to the afterlife. When someone says Beetlejuice’s name three times, the mischievous demon soon returns to unleash his very own brand of mayhem. (2024, 104 mins, PG-13) 

Dia de Los Muertos  
Sunday, November 2 from 3 – 7 pm 

The celebration begins with a sacred procession led by Danza Azteca Macuilxochitl, followed by the Catrín y Catrinas Parade—featuring a costume contest judged by local leaders and YOU. Bring a photo or keepsake* to add to a stunning community ofrenda created by artist Angel Quesada. 

At sunset there will be a concert by the Segundo Barrio Children’s Chorus.  

We close the night with La Musical Ofrenda, a high-energy tribute concert curated by Nick Gaitan and spotlighting some of Houston’s finest musicians, honoring legendary artists from across Texas. 

*Note: Please bring copies of photos. Do not bring any originals. 

ENTERTAINMENT  

Bank of America’s Screen on the Green 

Enjoy a family movie under the stars in the city’s coolest park. Bring a blanket or camping chairs and snacks or a picnic. Please leave alcohol and glass containers at home. Food, beer and wine are also available for purchase at The Lake House.  

Costumes are strongly encouraged! Arrive early for games and activities. 

A Minecraft Movie 

Saturday, September 27 from 7 – 9 pm 

A mysterious portal pulls four misfits into the Overworld, a bizarre, cubic wonderland that thrives on imagination. To get back home, they’ll have to master the terrain while embarking on a magical quest with an unexpected crafter named Steve. (2025, 101 mins., PG) 

The Nightmare Before Christmas 

Friday, October 24 from 7 – 8:30 pm 

The film follows the misadventures of Jack Skellington, Halloweentown’s beloved pumpkin king, who has become bored with the same annual routine of frightening people in the “real world.” When Jack accidentally stumbles on Christmastown, all bright colors and warm spirits, he gets a new lease on life — he plots to bring Christmas under his control by kidnapping Santa Claus and taking over the role. But Jack soon discovers even the best-laid plans of mice and skeleton men can go seriously awry. (1993, 76 mins., PG) 

Flea by Night presented by Green Mountain Energy  

Saturdays, September 20, October 18 and November 15 from 6 – 10 pm 

Flea by Night is a fun-filled open-air market where local makers, artists, plant vendors and small businesses bring their best vintage finds, handmade treasures, unique creations, and one-of-a-kind local goods. 

FAMILY & CHILDREN 

Toddler Tuesdays 

Sponsored by Memorial Hermann GoHealth    

Tuesdays, October 7, 14, 21 and 28 from 10:30 am – 12:30 pm 

Toddlers and their caretakers enjoy four gorgeous mornings of interactive story time. Each week features a themed story time with crafts. On October 28, enjoy a fun Halloween costume contest with lots of fun prizes. Community partners include Kinder High School for Performing and Visual Arts, Barbara Bush Literacy of Houston, Baylor College of Medicine, Collaborative for Children – Collab Lab, Frame Dance and Toddler Town.    

October 7  

Book: “Winnie the Pooh: Owl’s Reading Lessons” by Disney Reading Group 

Character: Winnie the Pooh 

Christi Harvey to read her book “My 3 Squirrels: The Rescue with a Twist” 

October 14  

Book: “Bluey: The Creek” by Penguin Young Readers 

Characters: Bluey and Bingo 

October 21  

Book: “Stitch-or-Treat!” by Eric Geron and RH Disney 

Character: Stitch 

October 28 

Book: “Even Superheroes Have Bad Days” “Even Superheroes Get Scared” by Shelly Becker’ 

Characters: Superman and Superwoman 

Halloween Costumes encouraged, come as your favorite superhero! 

HEALTHY LIVING 

Fitness presented by UTHealth Houston  

Monday, September 1 – Saturday, November 15  

All fitness levels are welcome in this free fitness series at Discovery Green presented by UTHealth Houston. Registration is requested on site. Bring a towel and water, as well as a mat for yoga classes. Visit discoverygreen.com/fitness for updates.  

Clase de Yoga Respiración Consciente y Meditación de Sonidos en Español 

Mondays, September 1 – November 17 from 6:30 – 7:30 pm 

Esta clase ofrece prácticas de yoga, respiración y meditación de sonidos a la comunidad hispano hablante de Houston. Guiada por Natalia Uribe y Sebastián Romero seguida de un baño de sonido y meditación a cargo de Saumil Manek. 

Gentle Yoga Flow  

Tuesdays, September 2 – November 18 from 6:30 – 7:30 pm 

Strengthen your body, relax your mind and find your center with this dynamic flow yoga and sound. Class is led by Farida Meguid with crystal sound bowls played by Saumil Manek.         

New! Hip Hop Yoga and Spoken Word Flow 

Wednesdays, September 3 – November 19 from 6:30 – 7:30 pm 

Hip Hop Yoga Vibes & Spoken Word Flow is an unforgettable open-air yoga experience where movement, music, and meaning collide. Instructor Alicia Dugar Stephenson, infuses every class with lighthearted humor, cultural rhythm, and poetic presence. This practice celebrates joy, community, and the glorious gift of being alive. Expect smooth transitions, playful instruction, and a soulful vibe that speaks to your body and your spirit.  

Hatha Yoga 

Saturdays, September 6 – November 15 from 9 – 10 am  

A basic vinyasa yoga class for enhanced awareness and a strong, healthy body led by Andria Dugas. This Saturday class is a perfect way to start the weekend strong. 

Recycling Saturdays  

Saturdays, 11 am – 2 pm 

Bring your sorted glass, paper, plastic and aluminum to a recycling bin provided by the City of Houston.  

OTHER PUBLIC EVENTS 

These events are not produced by Discovery Green. Consider holding your next party, festival or corporate event at Discovery Green and support this uncommonly beautiful urban greenspace. More information at discoverygreen.com/rentals. 

Dogfest  

Saturday, September 13 from 10 am – 1 pm 

Bring your pups, friends and family and join us for DogFest.  This family- and dog-friendly festival will include music, fun games and activities, vendors and more. Let’s celebrate the human-canine bond and the joy dogs bring to our lives, while raising funds and awareness for non-profit Canine Companions. What better time to celebrate than during National Service Dog Month! www.canine.org/dogfesthouston 

Houston Pumpkin Festival 

Saturday, September 20 – Sunday, November 2 

Monday – Thursday from 3 – 10 pm and Friday – Sunday from 10 am – 10 pm 

Step into a storybook of fall magic at Discovery Green. From bouncing on giant pumpkins to walking through sunflowers and glittering trees, this is where autumn dreams come to life for kids and grown-ups alike. This is a ticketed event. 

Southern Smoke Festival 

Saturday, October 4 from 4 – 8 pm 

Southern Smoke Festival returns to Houston’s Discovery Green on October 4. This high-energy event brings together 85+ top chefs, beverage pros, and live music for one unforgettable day. More than a feast, it fuels the Southern Smoke Foundation’s mission to support food and beverage workers in crisis. Come for the flavors, stay for the cause. This is a ticketed event. Tickets can be purchased at: https://southernsmoke.org/festival/ssf-2025/ 

Korean Festival 

Saturday, October 11 from 10 am – 9 pm 

Sunday, October 12 from 11 am – 7 pm 

Korean Festival showcases the best of Korean food, music, performing arts, and culture. Featuring vendors and performers from all over the world. This festival reaches a broad array of Houstonians, including foodies, KPop fans, families, and Houstonians hoping to experience Korean culture in the heart of Houston.  
kfesthouston.com  

Families with Pride  

Saturday, October 18 from 9 am – 12 pm 

Families with Pride celebrates and uplifts LGBTQ+ families and allies, creating a safe joyful space where all families are seen, supported and celebrated. Hosted by Council Member Abbie Kamin in partnership with The Greater Houston LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce. 

IGBO Festival 

Saturday, October 18 from 3 – 10 pm 

The largest West African festival hosted by Ndi Ichie Cultural Association featuring masquerades and cultural performances from across the U.S. 

www.igbofesthouston.org 

Annual Black Heritage Festival  

Sunday, October 19 from 2 – 8 pm 

The Annual Black Heritage Fest is a vibrant, free cultural celebration that brings together the city’s African American community and beyond in a spirited showcase of heritage and creativity.   

www.tbhc.org 

Space City Fest  

Sunday, October 26 from 4 – 8 pm 

Space City Fest is a once a year fall celebration held by Space City Church. With vendors, custom cars, a concert and more. 

https://www.spacecitychurch.com/spacecityfest

Bites and Beyond Festival 

Saturday, November 8 from 1 – 10 pm 

Get ready for an immersive celebration that marries the best of music, food, and art at the inaugural Bites & Beyond Music & Food Festival in Houston! This vibrant one-day festival spotlights both local talent and nationally recognized acts, bringing together a rich mix of live performances, culinary delights, and creative flair. This is a tickted event. To purchase tickets visit: https://bitesxbeyond.com 

2025 Texas Family Literacy Festival  

Saturday, November 15 from 10:30 am – 6:30 pm 

Journey to Story Square, where alphabet magic spells fun family learning. The Texas Family Literacy Festival is a day that is sure to enchant families with the bliss of alphabet magic in an unforgettable haven for families with children of all ages. Learn together with fun, games, prizes, great and yummy vendors, and performances from around the world at the country’s first-ever statewide family literacy festival. Free with registration.  

visit www.ourstorysquare.com 

# # # 

ABOUT DISCOVERY GREEN^® 

Discovery Green^® is a highly acclaimed 12-acre park created by a public-private partnership between the City of Houston and the nonprofit Discovery Green Conservancy in downtown Houston, Texas. Since opening in April 2008, the park has welcomed more than 20 million visitors. Discovery Green^® features sprawling lawns, a one-acre lake, an interactive fountain, a playground, public art installations, gardens and an allée of century-old live oaks. The Discovery Green Conservancy works with hundreds of programming partners to present artistic, musical, educational, family-friendly and health-focused events each year, most of which are presented free to the public. The park also features two on-site restaurants, the award-winning destination restaurant The Grove and the fast-casual The Lake House, providing visitors with an array of dining options. As a nonprofit organization, the Conservancy raises all the funds needed for the programming that Houstonians enjoy. For more information, please visit https://www.discoverygreen.com. Arts programming is made possible in part by the City of Houston through the Houston Arts Alliance. 

SOCIAL MEDIA 

Facebook: @DiscoveryGreenHouston 

X (formerly Twitter): @DiscoveryGreen 

Instagram: @DiscoveryGreen 

Discovery Green. Reg. U.S. Pat. and Tm. Off. 

The post Discovery Green® Welcomes Fall With Public Art, Cultural Festivals, Family Fun And Fitness  appeared first on Discovery Green.

Come have some fun!

Every Thursday this June enjoy the cooler evening hours with Park After Dark at Discovery Green. We’re leaving the fountains and lights on until late to encourage families to come out and play!

Discovery Green’s beloved Rocket Dog “art cart,” will be on hand with plenty of games and toys to rent and the playground will be jumping. Our picnic tables have recently been painted with squares so bring your chess sets or checkers for a match. Or bring a blanket and lounge on the grass. Food trucks and vendors will be serving sweet treats and food.

As the sun sets, the dancing begins!

• June 5 & 19: Line dancing with Gretchen “The Legend” Jean at 7 PM, followed by a party with DJ Boom Boom Williams.
• June 12 & 26: Salsa night with Gerisha Figueroa and Eleda Dance Company. Learn some moves and dance the night away!

Come see why Discovery Green is called “Houston’s backyard” this summer at Park After Dark.

If you are interested in becoming a market vendor please fill out the new vendor form and returning vendors please fill out the renewal form!

Discovery Green

THIS EVENT IS LOCATED @

Andrea and Bill White Promenade

The Andrea and Bill White Promenade is a wide granite walkway that bisects the park, and serves as the local “market place” of Discovery Green®. It also serves as a space for temporary art exhibitions and other activities. A section of the Promenade is lined with sixteen 10′ x 20′ canopy tents, with additional permanent anchors in the pavement available for rent.

DIRECTIONS

WAZE

PARKING

PARK RULES

The post Park After Dark at Discovery Green appeared first on Discovery Green.

Signature Experience

Juneteenth Celebration

at Discovery Green®

Saturday, June 14; 5 - 10 pm
Sunday, June 15; 5 - 9 pm

Celebrating Freedom

Saturday, June 14; 7 – 10 pm

This Juneteenth at Discovery Green we’re celebrating freedom with a look at the music and history of Black culture.

A Houston connection: 

Houston’s Grammy award winning children’s music artist  Uncle Jumbo, will be performing. Uncle Jumbo’s song and dance-a-long performances focus on joy, connection, kindness and wellbeing.

Bank of America’s Screen on the Green:

Then, enjoy a special Bank of America’s Screen on the Green viewing of Summer of Soul a Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson’s documentary highlighting The Harlem Cultural Festival of 1969. The film created from never seen and largely forgotten footage shows the impact the six-week festival had on Black history, music, fashion and culture. The movie “stands as a testament to the healing power of music during times of unrest, both past and present.”

Juneteenth Culture Fest at Avenida Houston and Discovery Green

June 14 & 15; 4 – 9 pm

The spirit of Juneteenth comes alive with music, dance, culture, and community. Juneteenth Culture Fest 2025 is set for Saturday, June 14 and Sunday, June 15, bringing two days of vibrant performances, local vendors, live podcasts, and much more in honor of one of the most important dates in American history.

Location: Avenida Houston

Saturday, June 14; 4 – 9 pm

Culture Stage: Hosted by KTSU 90.9FM’s Donna Franklin and Taylor Getwood.

4:00 PM – 4:25 PM: DJ Chilly Bill Smith spins classic KTSU vibes
4:30 PM – 6:30 PM: The Session featuring Isaiah Parks, Spud Howard, Patrice Dominique, Kirk Richmond, and Carvena
6:45 PM – 9:00 PM: The Culture Silent Party with DJ Supa Neil (The Choice) and DJ Lefty (The Vibe)

Vibe Lounge: Hosted by The Vibe’s Jessi and J. Xavier

4:00 PM – 5:15 PM: DJ Kardiac playing clean, upbeat hits
5:15 PM – 6:15 PM: KTSU Impact Houston Live Podcast
6:15 PM – 6:30 PM: DJ Kardiac returns
6:30 PM – 7:15 PM: Ki’ora Michelle live performance
7:15 PM – 8:00 PM: DJ Kardiac
8:00 PM – 9:00 PM: Ki’ora Michelle performance (Encore)
Vendor Market

Explore a wide variety of local vendors offering handmade goods, cultural merchandise, art, fashion, and cuisine.

Sunday, June 15; 4 – 9 pm

Special Father’s Day Edition
Locations: Discovery Green and Avenida Houston

Freedom Stage (Discovery Green’s Anheuser-Busch stage): Hosted by KTSU The Vibe’s Funky Larry Jones and KC.

4:00 PM – 4:15 PM: House Music set by The Vibe
4:15 PM – 5:00 PM: Live performance by Shonnie Murrell
5:00 PM – 5:20 PM: DJ Michele McKnight
5:30 PM – 6:30 PM: The C.I.T.Y. Band live performance
6:30 PM – 7:00 PM: DJ Michele McKnight returns

Culture Stage (Avenida Houston): Hosted by Donna Franklin and DJ Chilly Bill Smith of KTSU 90.9FM

4:00 PM – 5:00 PM: DJ Chilly Bill Smith
5:00 PM – 5:45 PM: S. Dott Line Dance performance
5:45 PM – 6:00 PM: DJ Chilly Bill Smith
6:00 PM – 6:50 PM: Phil Wade (R&B) live band performance
6:50 PM – 7:15 PM: DJ Chilly Bill Smith
7:15 PM – 8:45 PM: Headliner performance by E.U. (GoGo legends)

Vibe Lounge: Hosted by The Vibe’s Jessi and J. Xavier

4:00 PM: DJ Kardiac brings the energy
5:00 PM: Marium Echo performance
6:00 PM: DJ Kardiac
6:30 PM: KTSU Sports Talk Live Podcast with Devan Wade and Friends
7:30 PM: DJ Kardiac
8:00 PM: Marium Echo returns for a final set
9:00 PM: Festival close-out

Bank of America's
Screen on the Green

If you are interested in becoming a market vendor please fill out the new vendor form and returning vendors please fill out the renewal form!

Discovery Green

THIS EVENT IS LOCATED @

Anheuser-Busch Stage

The Anheuser-Busch Stage is a state-of-the-art outdoor concert venue, with audio and lighting systems designed to enhance the unique diversity of Houston’s performing and visual arts, as well as all musical genres. The backdrop of the stage is a magnificent view of Houston’s downtown skyline. The stage faces the Fondren Performance Space, with convenient access from Avenida de las Americas and the George R. Brown Convention Center. The stage can accommodate an oversized movie screen, with projection capabilities for outdoor movies, audio/visual slideshows and presentations, and live feeds.

DIRECTIONS

WAZE

PARKING

PARK RULES

The post Juneteenth Celebration at Discovery Green appeared first on Discovery Green.

We have reached out to the organizers listed on the event website to request that they remove our name or update the event location. If you have already purchased tickets, we encourage you to contact the event organizers directly for more information or a refund.

From time to time, Discovery Green hosts festivals and events produced by outside organizations. If those events are open to the public, they will be listed on our website under “Other Public Events.” Ticket links posted there are verified and official.

If you ever have questions about an event or ticket sales claiming to be associated with Discovery Green, don’t hesitate to reach out to us directly.

If you would like to have an event at Discovery Green you can do so by reading the event planning guide and submitting an application.

The post Discovery Green has no knowledge of the Siam Vibes Fest happening in the park appeared first on Discovery Green.

Building on its mission of sustainability, the event once again met its ambitious Zero Waste goal—diverting over 90% of waste from landfills—even as it saw an unprecedented volume of waste collected throughout the day.

Among the day’s highlights was Squonk’s Brouhaha performances presented in partnership with Houston First. The performances featured a 30-foot-tall spectacle called a “squonkcordian” – an instrument that required the crowd’s interaction. Groups of eager children hung on ropes to make the music happen.

“Squonk’s Brouhaha was a fantastical and fun experience. The interaction really brought home the event’s theme of Our Power, Our Planet,” said Discovery Green Conservancy President Kathryn Lott. “Every one of us has the power to change the planet, even more so when we work together. We proved that as a community by coming together to achieve Zero Waste at this year’s Green Mountain Energy Earth Day.”

Houston Public Works Director Randy Macchi accepted a proclamation declaring April 19 as Water Works Festival 2025 Day. The proclamation was presented by Council Members Joaquin Martinez, Edward Pollard and Letitia Plummer on behalf of Mayor John Whitmire. Houston Public Works and Discovery Green joined forces for Earth Day beginning in 2023, growing the event into Houston’s largest Earth Day celebration and the only to achieve zero waste status.

Attendees also enjoyed conversation with Green Mountain Energy Sun Club Grant Recipients. Sun Club grants foster greener communities by funding sustainability projects for nonprofits. The chats highlighted work by Houston nonprofits including Alzheimer’s Association, Finca Tres Robles / Small Places, Houston Furniture Bank, Recipe For Success, Silambam Houston and Willow Waterhole.  

Visitors perused awareness-raising graphic art created by students of Natacha Poggio at University of Houston – Downtown, while fifty exhibitors engaged visitors with hands-on activities highlighting their organization’s sustainability missions. Children enjoyed crafts, live art and musical performances in the kids’ zone courtesy of Houston Public Works.

Attendees generated almost 5,000 pounds of waste as they visited the food trucks and picnicked in Discovery Green throughout the day. More than 200 volunteers and students directed by Zero Waste Houston and Citizens Environmental Coalition, collected, sorted and weighed the trash.

Leo Brito, founder of Zero Waste Houston said the challenge was the trash came from many different sources. Attendees brought food from home and purchased items from food trucks. He credited the team of experts at Citizens’ Environmental Coalition, the volunteers and event organizers at Discovery Green for the success.

“Unlike other events where the discards are contained and plans can be made, this event does not allow us to make upstream changes. Therefore, a deep knowledge of what is actually recyclable and compostable is a must,” Brito said. “Truthfully, the challenge has brought about an outstanding opportunity to synergize and set an example that it IS possible… it CAN be done.”

Despite the volume of trash only 9.98 percent of the waste was sent to a landfill, the rest was diverted to composting and recycling. The Environmental Protection Agency defines an event as Zero Waste if at least 90 percent is kept from a landfill. The Green Mountain Energy Earth Day event first achieved Zero Waste in 2024. However, this year even more waste was diverted from the landfill.

Discovery Green would like to thank this year’s sponsors, Green Mountain Energy, Houston First, Houston Public Works and Port Houston along with community partners Citizens’ Environmental Coalition, Zero Waste Houston and University of Houston-Downtown for making Green Mountain Energy Earth Day a success.

NEVER MISS OUT!

Discovery Green is better when you’re here! Sign up for the newsletter and never miss one of our fun, free events again.

www.discoverygreen.com/newsletter

The post Green Mountain Energy Earth Day at Discovery Green achieves “Zero Waste” goal despite record-breaking trash collection appeared first on Discovery Green.

The fun begins on Friday, February 21 with the return of The Rink: Rolling at Discovery Green – Houston’s only outdoor roller rink – and a special skating performance by Daisies and Pancakes with music by Soul Control, DJ Elevated and Mookie Copeland. The first 50 people in line at 5 p.m. skate for free.

The Rink is open every day through April 13. Admission is $14 plus tax and includes skate rental. Special pricing is available on Cheap Skate Mondays, Two for Tuesdays, School Spirit Nights and Happy Hour Fridays. On Sundays, the Daisies and Pancakes Lab will host skate lessons, helping skaters glide across the rink in no time. As always, visitors with non-motorized wheelchairs are welcome on the rink. Tickets are available for purchase at discoverygreen.com/rollerrink.

Get excited for the Jazzy Sundays in the Parks’ lineup with a special kickoff event on Sunday, February 23 from 5 – 7 p.m. at Discovery Green. The event includes an all-star lineup of talented Houston musicians playing renditions from Houston greats such as Arnett Cobb, Don Wilkerson, Conrad Johnson, Jewel Brown and more. Jazzy Sundays in the Parks, made possible by Kinder Foundation then moves to Emancipation Park with Robert Glasper on March 2. The free concert series lineup can be found at discoverygreen.com/jazzy.

EOG Resources’ FUNomenal Spring Break offers students an assortment of fun and free educational S.T.E.A.M. (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) activities and cultural performances. During spring break, The Rink: Rolling at Discovery Green will also be open for extended hours.

Discovery Green celebrates Women’s History Month with the second annual Girls on the Green. The event features an inspiring panel discussion with Astronaut Jeannette Epps, Rocket Scientist Monica Lee and Amber Tierce Houston Corporate Affairs Manager of Chevron Houston, hosted by Discovery Green board member and founder of Dream Big Ventures, Staci LaToison. Attendees will also enjoy S.T.E.A.M. activities from Girlstart, DJ Gracie Chavez, photo ops, a special Flea by Night presented by Green Mountain Energy and a Bank of America’s Screen on the Green viewing of Hidden Figures.

Houston’s signature greenspace will host its annual Green Mountain Energy Earth Day celebration on Saturday, April 19. This year’s theme celebrates renewable energy with educational talks, exhibitors, live music, art installations, arts, crafts and more. A special performance of Squonk’s Brouhaha, in partnership with Houston First, brings a dazzling, interactive showcase of music, imagery and a larger-than-life accordion. It takes the power of community to make the instrument play. 

The park’s open-air market, Flea by Night presented by Green Mountain Energy, showcases local artisans and small business owners selling vintage, handmade, recycled and repurposed goods. Parkgoers can also enjoy free movie screenings under the glimmering lights of downtown Houston at Bank of America’s Screen on the Green.

Fitness presented by UTHealth Houston brings four weekly classes, including a Saturday morning Hatha flow, a Monday evening class led entirely in Spanish and a gentle flow and sound meditation on Tuesday evenings. New this season is Pure Barre, a full-body workout focused on core strength, joint stability and muscle toning with isolation held on Wednesday evenings.

See the full calendar of events at discoverygreen.com/events

The post Discovery Green® Rolls Into Spring with The Roller Rink, Jazzy Sundays, Funomenal Spring Break, Earth Day and More appeared first on Discovery Green.

By Holly Beretto

On a chilly Friday in downtown Houston, as twilight transitioned to dusk, a jogger kept a brisk pace along Discovery Green’s George R. Brown Promenade, his steps creating a soft shhkth-shhkth sound on the dirt path. He looked up as his stride hit a certain spot on the walkway, triggering a trilling chime in the branches overhead.

He smiled and jogged on.

Further down the promenade, a little girl pointed excitedly to the glowing creatures in the trees, then dashed off toward her mother’s voice.

“Look!” A mother lifted her toddler closer to see the giant moths hanging in the trees. “What is that?”

“But-fly,” the toddler smiled, delighted.

They were all experiencing artist Jen Lewin’s mesmerizing installation, ATLAS which features 24 oversized glowing moths suspended from the trees. Lewin’s work often explores the intersection of nature and technology, and ATLAS invites visitors to reflect on the delicate balance of our ecosystems. 

The moths react to the movement of park visitors, playing enchanting music and sounds as they shift colors. It’s a magical surprise for all who encounter them.

Discovery Green is a vital part of Houston’s arts scene, presenting immersive, interactive art installations that invite people of all ages to connect in a meaningful way. Spending a day at the park is free, which ensures these experiences are accessible for everyone. For many families, it’s often the first-time children are exposed to art that they can truly engage with—art that responds to their movements, invites them to touch, explore, and be part of the creative process.

“I like it!” said Monica R., a mother visiting the park with her children. “This is our first time seeing it, but I love bringing the boys here to walk around.”

This year, ATLAS is presented as part of Discovery Green’s Art Lab program – a groundbreaking initiative for local underrepresented artists. Art Lab’s first year was funded by an anonymous national donor. It is co-curated and co-created by Weingarten Art Group.

 As the inaugural Art Lab mentor, Lewin’s journey to becoming a public artist wasn’t immediate.

“I submitted to hundreds of calls for art, and it took years to get that first opportunity,” she explained. Through her mentorship in Art Lab, Lewin hopes to guide emerging Houston artists, Karen Navarro and Gerardo Rosales, in developing large-scale, interactive works of their own.

“I love being the first mentor for Art Lab” Lewin said. “It’s a tricky process to become a public artist, and I want to offer what I didn’t have: mentorship, guidance, and support.”

For Sharon Rodriguez, who was strolling through the park with her fiancé on their way to dinner, it was the third time experiencing Lewin’s art.

“I think they’re so cute,” she said, linking arms with her fiancé. “They’re so pretty, and I love standing under them, hearing the sounds. I mean, who doesn’t like butterflies and moths?”

Each sculpture in the ATLAS installation represents an endangered North American moth species. Informational signs along the installation let visitors identify the species, creating a fun scavenger hunt as they search for moths like the white-streaked Lichen moth or the dark stoneroot borer moth.

“It’s like a jungle in the middle of the city,” said Jen Olin, waiting for a friend at the park. She wasn’t aware of the artwork and was pleasantly surprised when stepping under a red moth, triggering a musical tune. “And they sing! How fun is that?”

The moths drift lazily on their wires, transitioning from serene blues and greens to vibrant oranges and pinks. The sounds along the path vary from the flapping of wings to wind chimes and chirps, inviting visitors to engage with the artwork.

Many parkgoers stumble upon the moths unexpectedly and are often delighted by how they change colors or play sounds when they interact. A husband and wife living downtown stopped beneath each moth, eager to see what would happen.

“It’s great that it’s interactive,” said the wife, Kim. “And this is a beautiful way to enjoy nature. We love the art installations here, but this is our first time seeing this one.”

ATLAS will be on display through February 16, continuing to enchant unsuspecting passersby, who find themselves startled by a sound their walking triggered—only to look up and be mesmerized by a giant glowing moth overhead.

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The Art Lab program provides invaluable resources for underrepresented local artists, empowering them to expand their practices into public works that engage the community.

Want to be a part of this exciting program? Join PRISM, Discovery Green’s membership program, and support local artists, enjoy exclusive access to events, and help foster Houston’s thriving arts scene. Learn more at www.discoverygreen.com/prism

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On a warm and beautiful winter Saturday night under the gleaming lights of downtown Houston, over 530 supporters of Houston’s cherished Discovery Green flocked to the civic paradise for its biennial Gala on the Green® presented by H-E-B. Under the leadership of gala co-chairs and longtime park supporters Ulises and Kara Kinder Vidal and Eduardo and Maria Vidal Morales, the black-tie event hauled in over $1 million for Discovery Green Conservancy.

Adopting the majestic butterfly as its motif, the 2025 iteration of Gala on the Green celebrated Discovery Green’s 17-year metamorphosis into the city’s premier urban greenspace and outdoor venue for accessible arts, culture and educational programming. An al-fresco cocktail reception along the Brown Promenade kicked off the evening, where guests imbibed on themed Monarch Margaritas beneath the wings of Discovery Green’s winter art installation, ATLAS by Jen Lewin.

The park’s lush landscape transformed into a formal haven of sophistication under a grand tent where the main event took place, as butterflies made of light fluttered gracefully above the exuberant party-going crowd. Encore Strings quartet greeted guests as they arrived at the soiree. Harpist Alex Martinez dazzled by playing two harps simultaneously in such a way as to be reminiscent of butterfly wings and their unmistakable rhythms.

KPRC2 Houston Life’s Derrick Shore deftly played the role of master of ceremonies for the evening – keeping the program moving while injecting doses of his trademark charm. As forks clinked plates throughout a multi-course culinary masterpiece from City Kitchen, Discovery Green Conservancy board member and public affairs manager for H-E-B Lacey Dalcour Salas, Dean of Christ Church Cathedral Reverend Nathaniel Katz and Houston Mayor John Whitmire delivered remarks to the gala’s captivated attendees.

Following remarks, all eyes were on the night’s honoree, Guy Hagstette, a visionary leader who served as Discovery Green’s first president and whose contributions have shaped Houston’s most iconic greenspaces. This year’s Gala on the Green celebrated multi-generational leadership, with current park president Kathryn Lott paying tribute to Hagstette and his legacy.

“The gala is a celebration of the metamorphosis that transformed a parking lot into a gorgeous outdoor cultural center and green space,” said Kathryn Lott, President of Discovery Green. “The evening is also a celebration of transformations that take place over generations with the new president honoring the first president alongside the children and grandchildren of the park’s founders.”

Once the program wrapped, attendees hit the dance floor in full force, swaying to the beat of a host of seminal ’70s and ’80s hits from SKYROCKET! Partygoers had the opportunity to bid on a number of one-of-a-kind items, including a live painting by Taft McWhorter and an 18-carat white gold and diamond butterfly necklace from family-owned Houston institution Zadok Jewelers.

Sisters-in-law Kara Kinder Vidal and Maria Vidal Morales’ decision to co-chair the gala was spurred not only by their affinity for the park’s universally friendly, culturally rich programming, but also by the values instilled in both women by each of their families. The duo is committed to instilling these very lessons in generational giving to their own children, who also joined them at this year’s soiree.

Discovery Green extends its gratitude to Specialty Cocktails Underwriter, Vivamor; Dance Floor Underwriter, SULLTRAIN; and Valet Underwriter, Phoenicia Specialty Foods.

More event photos can be found here.

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OPPORTUNITY TO GIVE

Discovery Green relies on donations from people like you to maintain the park and provide the free events and programming you love. From $5 to $500 your donation makes a difference.

The post Discovery Green’s Gala on The Green® Presented by H-E-B Raises Over $1M appeared first on Discovery Green.

HOUSTON – January 8, 2025 – Discovery Green Conservancy honored the Houston Marathon Committee with a commemorative paver at the finish line of the Chevron Houston Marathon. The paver celebrates the 30th anniversary of the Run for a Reason charity program and marks DGC’s 16th year hosting the official post-race party, RunFest, presented by Michelob Ultra. 

Discovery Green and the Houston Marathon launched the Make Your Mark campaign, inviting runners to purchase commemorative pavers. The entire section of pavers are reserved for runners and their families to commemorate their achievements. Proceeds benefit Discovery Green Conservancy’s mission to provide health, happiness, and year-round arts, cultural, and educational events for Houstonians. You can purchase your paver here: www.discoverygreen.com/marathon-paver/

A paver unveiling ceremony took place at 10 a.m. on January 8, 2025, at the Lamar and Crawford intersection, where the Andrea and Bill White Promenade stretches along Discovery Green. This promenade connects the start of the We Are Houston 5K to the finish lines of all races during the Houston Marathon Weekend of Events. Andrew Abendshein, Discovery Green Conservancy Board Chair, Wade Morehead, Executive Director of Houston Marathon Committee and Houston Marathon Foundation, and Amber Tierce, Houston Corporate Affairs Manager of Chevron Houston gave remarks during the ceremony.

“We are proud to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Run for a Reason program with a permanent tribute at Discovery Green,” said Kathryn Lott, President of Discovery Green Conservancy. “As a nonprofit, we understand the impact of mission-driven initiatives. This program’s long history of supporting Houston charities, including ours, is something to be celebrated.” 

Launched in 1995, the Chevron Houston Marathon’s Run for a Reason program has raised millions for local charities. The Chevron Houston Marathon itself began in 1972, followed by the addition of the Aramco Houston Half Marathon and the We Are Houston 5K. These races attract top international athletes and 34,000 participants from around the world to Houston’s welcoming and culturally rich community. 

“The opportunity to receive this gift from Discovery Green Conservancy to honor the Run for a Reason program, which raised over $38 million for local charities over the last 30 years, is truly humbling. We’re grateful to unveil our commemorative paver alongside 40 others, right next to the finish line of our world-class races in downtown Houston,” said Morehead, Executive Director of Houston Marathon Committee and Houston Marathon Foundation. 

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ABOUT DISCOVERY GREEN^® 

Discovery Green^® is a highly acclaimed 12-acre park in downtown Houston, Texas that is operated by the nonprofit Discovery Green Conservancy. Since opening in April 2008, the park has welcomed more than 20 million visitors. Discovery Green^® features sprawling lawns, a one-acre lake, an interactive fountain, a playground, public art installations, gardens and an allée of century-old live oaks. The Discovery Green Conservancy works with hundreds of programming partners to present artistic, musical, educational, family-friendly and health-focused events each year, most of which are presented free to the public. The park also features two on-site restaurants, the award-winning destination restaurant The Grove and the fast-casual The Lake House, providing visitors with an array of dining options. As a nonprofit organization, the Conservancy raises all the funds needed for the programming that Houstonians enjoy. For more information, please visit www.discoverygreen.com. Arts programming is made possible in part by the City of Houston through the Houston Arts Alliance. 

SOCIAL MEDIA 

Facebook: @DiscoveryGreenHouston 

X (formerly Twitter): @DiscoveryGreen 

Instagram: @DiscoveryGreen 

About Houston Marathon Committee, Inc. (HMC) – Founded in 1972, the HMC is a founding member of Running USA and organizes the nation’s premier winter marathon, half marathon, and 5K hosting over 300,000 participants, volunteers, and spectators on race day. Recognized by World Athletics, the Gold Label Chevron Houston Marathon has been the race site for three U.S. Olympic Trials Marathons. The Gold Label Aramco Houston Half Marathon has hosted 16 U.S. Half Marathon Championships. The HMC received Gold Label Certification from the Council for Responsible Sport from 2011 to 2020. The event also garnered the 2015 AIMS Green Award for industry-leading sustainability initiatives. Race weekend generates over $50 million in economic impact for the region annually and has raised over $38 million through the Run for a Reason Charity Program since its inception in 1995. The event is broadcast live on ABC13 and syndicated nationally and internationally on ESPN3.      

SOCIAL MEDIA 

Facebook: @HoustonMarathon 

X (formerly Twitter): @HoustonMarathon 

Instagram: @ChevronHoustonMarathon 

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