Popular tradition returns with new wheels, events
Start your engines. This year’s Art Car festivities are revving up for another run of events.
The popular Houston tradition, presented by The Orange Show, returns April 6-16 with a series of events, including the parade and ball. Attendees can see more than 250 “mobile masterpieces,” including almost 100 new cars.
Also new this year, two individuals and one family who have made lasting impacts to the festival and parade will be honored: sculptor and painter Sharon Kopriva, Northside High School art teacher Anna Bass and the philanthropic Mafrige family.
More events will be announced during the coming weeks. The lineup currently includes:
First Thursday at Mid Main
Featuring illuminated art cars, interactive art activities, live music, market and beer sampling from Saint Arnold; 100 percent of the proceeds will go to the Orange Show.
5 p.m. April 6, 3500-3700 blocks of Main; $5
Easter Orange Art Car Hunt
Kids can hunt for candy-filled eggs, prizes and oranges. Art Cars will also be on display.
10 a.m. April 8, Smither Park, 2441 Munger; free
The Main Street Drag
More than 100 Art Cars and artists will participate in a series of mini-parades that will visit schools, hospitals, nursing homes, developmental facilities and other locations where residents may not be able to participate in regular festivities.
9 a.m. April 13, The Orange Show, 2334 Gulf Terminal; free
Art Car Sneak Peek at Discovery Green
Family-friendly event featuring more than 100 art cars, including several new entries; live music and more.
6-10 p.m. April 13 at Discovery Green, 1500 McKinney; free
The Legendary Art Car Ball
This hallmark of the Art Car festivities will feature musical performances by Boyfriend, Caleb de Casper, DJ Amarii, Free Rads 2nd Line and more. There will also be interactive art, fire performances and illuminated Art Cars. Wild costumes are encouraged.
6 p.m. April 14, The Orange Show, 2401 Munger; $40 and up
Lineup Party
Preview the 250-plus Art Cars as they prep for the parade. There will also be live music, food trucks and more.
11 a.m. April 15 on Allen Parkway at Heiner; free
H-E-B Kids Creative Zone
Featuring activations and performances from the Alley Theatre’s El Zocalo, Art League Houston, Children’s Museum of Houston, Houston Botanic Garden, Houston Mariachi Festival, MECA and more.
11 a.m. April 15 at Sam Houston Park, 1000 Bagby; free
36th annual Houston Art Car Parade
The flagship event will feature 250 cars and begins at Dallas and Babgy streets and winds through downtown before heading to Allen Parkway. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to secure a spot. The parade lasts about two hours.
2 p.m. April 15, Allen Parkway and downtown; free, with VIP seating available
Art Car Awards Ceremony
The best of the best will be honored with more than $16,000 in prize money. It’s also a final chance to see the Art Cars.
11 a.m. April 16, The Orange Show, 2334 Gulf Terminal; free