Looking for wholesome ways to spend the Thanksgiving weekend with family and friends? Greater Houston offers a variety of events from Nov. 13‑15 that combine recreation, charity and local pride. Below is a concise guide to each activity, including dates, locations and any registration details.
Turkey Classic Pickleball Tournament – Porter
The PickleBall Zone is hosting the Turkey Classic pickleball tournament for women’s, men’s and mixed doubles. Registration is open at www.pickleball.com. The first event costs $50; additional events are $25 each. The tournament runs throughout the weekend at 22056 W. Ford Road, Porter.
Sunset Cinema – The Woodlands
The Woodlands Environmental Services Department presents an outdoor screening of Disney‑Pixar’s WALL‑E. Attendees can enjoy a recycling‑themed trivia game with prizes. Bring a picnic blanket and snacks for a family‑friendly evening under the stars.
Charity Cook‑off – New Caney
The Peggy Beyer Memorial Foundation’s annual benefit combines cornhole, margaritas and chili for a good cause. Proceeds fund scholarships for New Caney ISD students. Competitions include best chili, best margarita and best cornhole team, with a raffle for all participants. The event opens at 11 a.m. on Nov. 14; early cooking begins at 7 a.m. Admission is free, while competition entry ranges from $30 to $140. Location: Bull Sallas Park, 21675 McCleskey Road, New Caney.
Fall Haul Community Cleanup – Various Locations
The semi‑annual Fall Haul invites residents to bring metal, old appliances, furniture, plastic, tree limbs and wood for proper disposal. This free service helps keep neighborhoods tidy and supports local recycling efforts.
1K Turkey Trot – Peckham Park
Join the second annual 1K Turkey Trot at Peckham Park. The family‑focused run includes a Thanksgiving‑themed photo booth, crafts and outdoor games, making it a fun way to get some exercise before the holiday.
ForestFest – Jesse H. Jones Park & Nature Center
The second annual ForestFest offers free native tree giveaways on a first‑come, first‑served basis. Visitors can explore the park’s trails and learn about local forestry initiatives.
Family Fun Day at Texana Café – Houston
Texana Café, in partnership with The George Foundation, hosts a Family Fun Day featuring a bounce house, face painting and door prizes. This event provides a safe, enjoyable environment for children and parents alike.
Veterans Day Brunch – Cresmont Community Center, Houston
Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. – Gamma Upsilon Omega Alumni Chapter and community partners will serve a free brunch to honor veterans. The brunch runs from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Nov. 14. Veterans must RSVP; the event is held at 5200 Selinsky Road, Houston.
The Land of Sweets Soirée – Cypress
The Houston Repertoire Ballet presents an afternoon with Clara from The Nutcracker, complete with sweets, photo opportunities and more. Tickets are $45 for children and $35 for adults. The soirée takes place at Lindsay Lakes, 16536 Mueschke Road, Cypress, with sessions at 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. on Nov. 15.
All events are subject to change, so please verify details with the organizers before attending. Whether you’re seeking active recreation, charitable giving or simple family enjoyment, this weekend’s lineup offers something for every Houston household.
Original reporting: Community Impact — Houston — read the source article.
