HP Houston Marathon: held in mid-January, this is a single-loop race which is run through many of Houston's neighbourhoods. Crowds gather in their droves to cheer on the runners who have chosen to run this gruelling course.
Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo: is a three-week show held in late February. The show features some much-loved country musicians and never fails to draw millions of people.
Mardi Gras: is an extremely popular two-week family festival with much to keep the entire family entertained. Festivities include street parades and parties, masquerade balls and lots of good food and drink.
The River Oaks Garden Club's Azalea Trail: held in early March, this colourful tour around the city takes in the River Oaks neighbourhood as well as the stunning Bayou Bend.
Japan Festival: this popular festival celebrates Japanese culture and features origami displays, martial arts, music and folk dancing. The festival is held in the quaint Japanese Gardens in Hermann Park.
Houston International Festival: held in the third week of April, this is a 10-day event which celebrates international food, art and music in the city. It is the perfect time to sample some of the delights on offer at many of the city’s restaurants.
Cinco de Mayo Celebration: held on 5 May, this is a celebration of Mexican Culture and is enjoyed by everyone. Festivities include a downtown parade as well as Mariachi music and dancers performing at the Miller Outdoor Theatre in Hermann Park.
Juneteenth Celebration: this is a month-long festival beginning on 19 June. It marks the date in 1865, when Texan slaves were in fact freed – 2 years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation. Performances in celebration of African-American heritage can be seen at the Miller Outdoor Theatre.
Fourth of July: the annual celebration of independence is held at Miller Outdoor Theatre, with fireworks and a 16-cannon salute.
ArtHouston: is an evening art walk, with more than 30 galleries participating. It is a celebration of art and local artists. The walk takes place through many of Houston’s most affluent neighbourhoods.
Houston International Jazz Festival: held in early August, the festival celebrates the birth of jazz with a weekend of jazz performances at the city's best locations.
Ballunar Lift-off: based at the Space Center and Clear Lake, this event involves over 100 balloons, skydiving and hang gliding demonstrations.
Fiestas Patrias: is a celebration for the Hispanic nations regarding their independence.
Wings Over Houston Air Show: this is Houston's annual air show and features death-defying displays as well as many other activities and exhibits.
Texas Renaissance Festival: taking place every weekend throughout October and November, the Renaissance Festival celebrates the 16th century with delight. Many people choose to dress up to experience what life would have been like during the Renaissance.
Texas Championship American Pow Wow: a two-day festival where Native Americans across the country gather together to sing traditional songs, dance and display a wide range of arts and crafts as well as to sell native food.
Thanksgiving Day Parade: a colourful and lively annual parade in downtown which features; floats, bands and Santa Claus. The parade is perfect for the entire family, especially children.
Christmas Boat Parade on Clear Lake: held in mid-December, this is a procession of decorated boats on Clear Lake in time for the Christmas festivities.
In most things, familiarity leads to recognition and better service, following my many stays. This is exemplified by my losing a power cord for my laptop, and because I may have left it at the Interco...
