When you ask people what their favorite time of the year is, they usually say the fall. While I do see the appeal to autumn with the cooler temperatures, fall foliage, and cozy sweaters, my favorite time of the year is the spring. I tend to hibernate in the winter because I hate cold weather, and I am usually tired from a hectic holiday season. As Spring approaches and temperatures warm up, I am ready to emerge from my hibernation and conquer the world! One of the best places to be during springtime is Houston, Texas. Read further for reasons why spring is the best time to visit Houston. (Events mentioned in this blog may be cancelled or postponed due to Covid.)
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Perfect Weather
Generally, the Houston climate is warmer than most other parts of the United States. Springtime usually means high temperatures in the mid-70s (F), which is perfect for outdoor activities. Humidity levels in the spring are also much lower than the summer months in Houston. The combination of warm weather and less humidity makes perfect weather and is one reason why spring is the best time to visit Houston.
Wildflowers Galore
Usually in March (sometimes early April), you can see Texas wildflowers growing in various parts of Houston. The most prominent wildflower you will see is bluebonnets, Texas’s state flower. While you will see these beautiful wildflowers in and around Houston, they become more and more abundant the further west you go. If you drive west on I-10 or northwest on 290, you will eventually see droves of bluebonnets and other wildflowers in medians and roadside pastures. Be sure not to pick wildflowers as it is against Texas law.
Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo
Typically held during the month of March each year, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is the largest livestock show and rodeo in the world. Due to Covid-19, the rodeo will be held in May 2021. The event is kicked off with a parade of trail riders, Rodeo Run 10k, and barbecue cookoff. Each day cowboys compete in events such as bull riding, steer wrestling, calf roping, and more to earn a championship title. Young people show their cows, pigs, sheep, and other farm animals in the livestock show. The day is ended with a concert from some of the world’s top-recording artists. Past rodeo concerts have included singers such as George Strait, Beyonce, Brooks & Dunn, Alan Jackson, Kenny Chesney, Usher, Maroon 5, and so many more. The Houston Rodeo is a successful charitable event due to its over 33,000 volunteers. In 2017, HLSR generated over $26 million in scholarship money.
St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations
One of my favorite holidays is St. Patrick’s Days. I am not sure if it is because of my Irish ancestry or because my last name is Patrick or because I like that everyone is wearing silly green outfits, but I love this holiday. Houston does it right with a St. Patrick’s Day parade and big celebrations all over the city featuring green beer and Irish car bombs.
Spring Break in Galveston
You can spend your spring break in Galveston, located about an hour south of Houston. Galveston island is known for its beaches with warm and calm waters. Spending a sunny day at the beach is the perfect way to get over your winter blues. In addition to the beach, Galveston has many other fun activities such as Schlitterbahn waterpark, Moody Gardens, the Children’s Museum, and much more. You can read about all the fun things to do in Galveston in Visit Galveston for More than Just a Beach Destination.
Art Car Parade
Houston has some lesser known quirks that usually only Houstonians know about, and one of these quirks is the Houston Art Car Parade. Held in April every year, the Houston Art Car Parade was the first ever and is currently the largest art car parade in the world. Motor-powered or human-powered vehicles are decorated in various themes as they roll down the streets of Houston. But do not worry, if you visit Houston and miss the parade, you can visit the Art Car Museum.
Houston Ballet Nutcracker Market Spring Spectacular
For years, the Houston Ballet has hosted their Nutcracker Market in November as a fundraiser. Recently, they expanded their shopping extravaganza to a second Nutcracker Market called the Spring Spectacular and occurs mid-April. Over 160 merchants set up shop, and 10% of all purchased merchandise is donated to the Houston Ballet Foundation.
Crawfish Season
One of the tastiest reasons why spring is the best time to visit Houston is crawfish season! These spicy mudbugs are a Cajun delicacy. Twist the tails away from the body, pull the meat from the tail, and enjoy! Some people suck on crawfish heads for more Cajun flavor. It takes some experience to peel crawfish quickly, so do not be discouraged if you are a little slower than the locals. While some outsiders are grossed out by mudbugs, do not be intimidated. Crawfish is delicious!
Hermann Park Conservancy Kite Festival
The Hermann Park Conversancy Kite Festival hosts thousands of people flying kites at the popular Houston park. In addition to kite-flying, the festival hosts arts and crafts, DJs, live music, food vendors, and other children’s activities. Seeing the colorful kites paint the sky is one of the many reasons why spring is the best time to visit Houston.
Pasadena Strawberry Festival
Every May, Pasadena, Houston’s most populated suburb, holds their Strawberry Festival featuring numerous events such as live country music, a petting zoo, and children’s activities. One of the main events of the festival is the mud volleyball tournament. Make sure to get a piece of strawberry shortcake while you visit. In 2005, the Pasadena Strawberry Festival set a Guinness Book of World Records with the largest strawberry shortcake at 1,905 square feet.
Baseball Season
Another great reason why spring is the best time to visit Houston is baseball has started. Come out to Minute Maid Park to watch the Houston Astros throw, hit, and catch baseballs. You can even watch Houston’s AAA minor league team, the Sugarland Skeeters, in one of Houston’s many suburbs.
For more about visiting Houston, read Reasons to Visit Houston!
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