Runners compete in the Chevron Houston Marathon. (CaseyMartin/Shutterstock)
Let’s be real: January is a time of resolutions and fresh starts—but it also comes with post-holiday empty pockets, cold nights, and less drinking due to trends like Dry January and Daniel Fasts.
If you’re looking for ways to get out of the house without spending too much money (or being tempted by a cocktail), here are some free or low-cost events happening in Houston this January.
Louvre Couture exhibit at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
Featuring Chanel, Thom Browne, and Jean Paul Gaultier, the new “Louvre Couture—Art and Fashion: Statement Pieces” exhibit at Houston’s Museum of Fine Arts showcases stunning designs that resemble works of art more than actual clothing. Make sure to go on Thursdays when admission to this exhibit is free!
Through March 15
Free
1001 Bissonnet St., Houston
RELATED: Houston museum exhibits wearable art
Hands-on Houston: Embroidery Hoop Art
Did you know that hands-on crafting can lower your risk for diseases like dementia and Alzheimer’s? If you’re looking for an excuse to put your phone down and increase your cognitive skills, check out this crafting workshop where attendees will learn the art of embroidery. All supplies will be provided.
Jan. 3, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Free
Houston Center for Contemporary Craft, 4848 Main St., Houston
Instead of training and paying to run in the Houston Marathon, cheer on the participants from the sidelines for free! With registration being closed and prior qualification required, cheering racers on is the next best thing. There will be multiple cheer stations posted throughout the 26.2 mile course that snakes around the city. Weather can be unpredictable this time of year for Houston, so plan accordingly. To offer encouragement to the runners, you can make signs, offer up water and snacks, and yell words of inspiration.
Jan. 11, 7 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
Free
George R. Brown Convention Center, 1001 Avenida de Las Americas, Houston
Celebrate the life and achievements of Martin Luther King Jr., one of the world’s most famous civil rights leaders, by attending downtown Houston’s MLK Unity Parade. 2026 marks the first time the Black Heritage Society and MLK Grande Parade are teaming up for one large celebration.
Jan. 19, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Free
San Jacinto Street and Pease Street, Houston
Mixology Class at HiFi at The Finn: Sober Sips
Committing to Dry January in 2026? Then check out this mixology class, where you’ll learn how to make delicious and refreshing mocktails. Each ticket will get you a mini welcome mocktail, guided mixology instruction, all the ingredients and tools you’ll need, and two craft mocktails you’ll get to shake up and sip on.
Jan. 21, 6-8 p.m.
$36.64
The Finn, 712 Main St., Houston
Kawaii Market Presented With Tokyo X
In partnership with Tokyo X, Asia Society Texas is presenting an anime-inspired market. With free admission, visitors can shop from more than 20 vendors, sip on specialty coffee, and view “The House of Pikachu: Art, Anime, and Pop Culture.”
Jan. 24 (noon-7 p.m.), Jan. 25 (noon-5 p.m.)
Free with RSVP
Asia Society Texas Center, 1370 Southmore Blvd., Houston
2026 Hot Chocolate Run Houston
What’s a better motivator to finish a race than the promise of hot, chocolatey goodness at the finish line? Participants can choose from a 5k, 10k, or 10 miles, and will receive a commemorative medal upon completion, along with fondue, hot chocolate, and a finisher’s mug.
Jan. 31, 7:15 a.m.-noon
$39-$59
1000 Bagby St., Houston
