Jazzy Sundays Returns to Emancipation Park

In 2017, Emancipation Park reopened during Juneteenth weekend after undergoing a $33.6 million renovation to conserve the park’s history. Emancipation Park was created in 1872 by formerly enslaved people who wanted to create a space for other freed people to celebrate Juneteenth. Members of the Third Ward community have continued the annual tradition and, with the renovations and partnership with the City of Houston, more events throughout the year have helped provide a common gathering place. Arts and culture programming is one of the park’s staple pillars.

According to the nonprofit, Emancipation Park Conservancy, “Performing and visual arts remain an overlooked resource for policymakers representing communities of color.” They prioritize introducing the community to a variety of artists in hopes of educating and providing opportunities for free entertainment in the Third Ward community.

In an article from Houston Public Media, Adam Zuvanich quoted a news release about last year’s Jazzy Sundays which featured five-time, Grammy-winning artist and Houston native, Robert Glasper.

"This concert series will increase awareness of the city's contributions to the art form as well as bring Houstonians together to enjoy their cultural heritage."

Photo credit: Emancipation Park Conservancy

Returning for another year, Emancipation Park hosted Jazzy Sundays throughout March. On Sunday, March 24, Mathias Lattin & LowDown Brown headlined the last show at Emancipation Park. Cat, an attendee at the event, expressed her excitement about having the opportunity to attend the event.

“I love events like these because they’re free, they’re for the people, you can get out and mingle, you can get to meet people, do all the venues, support black businesses and things like that.” 

Emancipation Park’s performances were the beginning of a three-month series, sponsored by the Kinder Foundation. Other parks participating in the Jazzy Sundays series until June include Buffalo Bayou Park and Discovery Green. Come prepared with lawn chairs, blankets, and a hungry stomach to try food from Houston vendors! 

Houston Rodeo Lineup Announced - Who Are You Most Excited to See?

The 2024 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo runs from February 27 to March 17! Here's the full lineup:

Tuesday, Feb. 27: Blake Shelton

Wednesday, Feb. 28: Carly Pearce

Thursday, Feb. 29: For King + Country

Friday, March 1: 50 Cent

Saturday, March 2: Hardy

Sunday, March 3: Ivan Cornejo

Monday, March 4: Hank Williams Jr.

Tuesday, March 5: Oliver Anthony

Wednesday, March 6: Jelly Roll

Thursday, March 7: Luke Bryan

Friday, March 8: Major Lazer

Saturday, March 9: Lainey Wilson

Sunday, March 10: Los Tigres Del Norte

Monday, March 11: Whiskey Myers

Tuesday, March 12: Bun B's All-American Takeover

Wednesday, March 13: Nickelback

Thursday, March 14: Zac Brown Band

Friday, March 15: Jonas Brothers

Saturday, March 16: Brad Paisley

Sunday, March 17: Eric Church

This year, Anthony, Jelly Roll, and new Houston resident, 50 Cent, will be performing at RodeoHouston for the first time! Many artists from, Selena and Beyoncé to Florida Georgia Line and Chance the Rapper. With the diversity of this year's lineup, 2024 is bound to have a fun rodeo season!

13 Best Christmas Gifts of 2023: From Day Spas to Crock Pots

The holiday season is upon us and that means it's time to start thinking about gifts! If you're like most people, you want to find the perfect gift for each person on your list but that can be easier said than done. To help make your holiday shopping a little easier, we've compiled a list of 50 best Christmas gift ideas.

Whether you're looking for a gift for him, her, or the kids, we've got you covered. We've got something for everyone on your list, whether they're into fashion, cooking, technology, or just need a little relaxation. And, of course, we've got plenty of options within each category to suit every budget.

So take a look at our list and see what catches your eye. With any luck, you'll find the perfect gift for everyone on your list and make this holiday season one to remember!

Best Christmas Gifts for Families

​There are so many great gift ideas for families this Christmas! Whether you’re looking for something for the kids, or something for the adults, there’s definitely something for everyone on your list. Here are some of the best Christmas gifts for families:

For the kids:

1. An indoor swing

This is perfect for those cold winter days when the kids can’t go outside to play during harsh, winter weather days.

2. A new set of Legos

Legos are always a hit with kids of all ages.

3. A playhouse

This is a great gift for both younger and older kids.

4. A trampoline

This is a great way to get the kids active and outside.

5. A karaoke machine

This is sure to be a hit with all the kids (and adults)!

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For the adults:

6. A nice bottle of wine.

This is a great gift for the wine lover in your life.

7. A gourmet food basket.

This is a great gift for the foodie in your life.

8. A spa day voucher.

This is the perfect way to help someone relax and rejuvenate.

9. A new set of golf clubs.

This is a great gift for the golfer in your life.

10. A new piece of jewelry.

This is a great gift for the special woman in your life.

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Best Christmas Gifts for Guests

​Christmas is a time for giving, and that includes giving to your guests! Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just having a few friends over for Christmas dinner, you’ll want to make sure your guests feel welcome and appreciated. And what better way to do that than with a gift? If you’re not sure what to give your guests this Christmas, don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with a list of the best Christmas gifts for guests.

One of the best things about giving gifts at Christmas is that it doesn’t have to be expensive to be meaningful. A small token of your appreciation can go a long way in making your guests feel welcome and loved. So, don’t feel like you have to break the bank to give a great gift.

With that being said, here are a few ideas for great Christmas gifts for guests:

11. A homemade treat:

Nothing says “welcome to my home” quite like a delicious homemade treat. Whether it’s a batch of cookies, a loaf of bread, or a festive cake, your guests will appreciate the thoughtfulness of a homemade gift.

12. A festive scented candle:

Candles are always a popular gift, and they’re especially appropriate for Christmas. A festive scent will help your guests get into the holiday spirit and make their homes feel extra cozy.

13. A charitable donation:

If you’re looking for a gift that gives back, consider making a charitable donation in your guests’ names. This is a great way to show your holiday spirit and support a cause that’s important to you.

No matter what you give your guests this Christmas, they’re sure to appreciate the thoughtfulness of your gift. So, don’t stress about finding the perfect present—just focus on enjoying the holiday season with the people you love!

What's the Best Price for a Christmas Gift?

​It's that time of year again! Christmas is just around the corner and everyone is starting to think about what gifts to buy for their loved ones. But what's the best price for a Christmas gift?

There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on several factors, such as the relationship between the gift-giver and the recipient, the type of gift, and the budget of the gift-giver. However, there are a few general tips that can help you make sure you're getting the best price for your Christmas gift.

First, do some research. Before you go out and buy the first thing you see, take some time to compare prices and find the best deal. There are several great online resources that can help you with this, such as Amazon and eBay.

Second, think about what the recipient would want. It's easy to get caught up in buying the latest and greatest gadget or the most popular toy, but sometimes the best gifts are ones that are more personal and thoughtful. If you take the time to think about what the recipient would appreciate, you're more likely to find a gift that they'll love at a price that you're comfortable with.

Finally, don't be afraid to negotiate. If you're buying a big-ticket item like a car or a piece of furniture, don't be afraid to haggle with the salesperson to get the best price possible. Christmas is a busy time of year for retailers and they're often willing to give you a better deal if it means making a sale.

So, what's the best price for a Christmas gift? It depends on several factors, but by doing your research, thinking about what the recipient wants, and being willing to negotiate, you can be sure you're getting the best deal possible.​