Where: 5 THINGS TO DO THIS WEEKEND
It’s beginning to feel a lot like Texas.
Whether you’re drawn to our state’s Independence Day celebration or the rodeo parade, there’s state-bred culture for you soak in this weekend. There’s also comedy, art and people riding camels.
Downtown Rodeo Parade
It’s the annual buildup to RodeoHouston, with decorative floats, marching bands and people on horseback in the city. When: 9 a.m. Saturday Where: Route begins at Bagby and Walker streets Information: rodeohouston.com/visit-the-show/pre-showevents/parade
Texas Independence Day Celebration
Whether you’re a native or got here as soon as you could, all Texans are invited to this annual celebration on the spot where the state’s independence was started. The weekend’s lineup is marked with music, food, festivities, historical presentations and all things Texas.
Washington on the Brazos When: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday Information: free; wheretexasbecametexas.org
Camel and Ostrich races
Two nights of racing featuring real-life camels and ostriches at Sam Houston Race Park. That isn’t a misprint. When: 6 p.m. Saturday Where: 7575 N. Sam Houston Parkway W. Tickets: $4-$50; shrp.com
Bill Maher
The comedian and political commentator brings his stand-up show to town, presumably with a lot of topical material from which to draw. When: 8 p.m. Saturday Where: Smart Financial Centre, 18111 Lexington, Sugar Land Information: $49.50$95; 281-207-6278, smartfinancialcentre.com.
French art
France Pavilion, a curated art fair of works by more than 25 European and American artists, fills Winter Street Studios this weekend. Many are being exhibited in Houston for the first time. When: 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday Where: 2101 Winter Information: Free; francepavilion.com