Last weekend marked the opening of Houston’s first Crux Climbing Center location, a bouldering and climbing gym that previously operated only in Austin. The opening of this new East End space isn’t just about the sport itself; it is an effort to foster a new community of climbers in Space City. The center will host local vendor appreciation nights and youth programs, giving Houston a way to disconnect from our phones and reconnect with one another.

Crux Climbing Center’s grand opening in the East End drew hundreds of Houstonians. (Anna Raj/Courier HTX) 

Never climbed before and nervous to try? That was me before walking into Crux! I came to the grand opening for my first time climbing, and I was glad to see I wasn’t the only first-timer there.

Before I went up on the ‘rocks,’ Grace Nicholas, Crux’s COO, told me climbing is a chance to achieve something you never thought you could. I didn’t believe her until I was 10 feet above everyone’s heads.

This climbing gym is a chance to try a new hobby, see how high you can go, or do something adventurous with your friends.

Rock climbing is especially helpful for folks over 50 because it’s a low-impact exercise that builds endurance, agility, and strength. Don’t believe me? Check out this article about how one woman became a rock climber at 55.

Help me pick my next hobby to feature! What activities do you want to try or read about?

🚔 ICE agents ran over a Houston man, who now requires extensive surgery and limb reconstruction. Here’s what we know so far. (NBC)

🧼 This $2.6 million car wash bill has started a major fight between Houston City Controller Chris Hollins and Mayor John Whitmire’s office. Read about the car wash clash here. (Chron)

🏥 A Sugar Land mother is taking the fight for her daughter’s life to the Capitol as the family’s insurance company refuses to pay for the child’s life-saving care. Read about what she wants lawmakers to do.

👷 In Conroe, a $100 million metal plant broke ground last week, promising to even out competition with China in producing metals. Find out what the metals will be used for. (Chron)

The world’s largest Renaissance festival draws Houstonians to the yearly event, just 55 miles away. (Rebecca Deurlein)

By Rebecca Deurlein

While we may not have the leafy orange and red color changes of our northern neighbors, Houston sits right in the middle of some of the best fall festivals across Texas. From sword-fighting to jazz bands, you can experience these fall fairs and parades near Houston with less than a tank of gas.

Most of these events are free or have nominal fees, and all are easy drives that offer a change of scenery and solid, low-cost entertainment.

Make it a day trip or spend the night (or a whole weekend)—it’s entirely up to you and your budget.

So whether you’re a yearly Ren Fest attendee or you like the idea of a glass of wine that comes with a hilltop view, you’ll find something in the list below to whet your October appetite.

This weekend, fall fairs are coming from Houston all the way to Galveston. (Anna Raj/Courier HTX)

🗓 Friday, Oct. 16

Woodlands Halloween Bash

Affordable Art Fair

Pop-Up Artisan Market

🗓 Saturday, Oct. 17

Caboosefest: Hootenanny & Hayrides

Kingwood Oktoberfest

Buffalo Bayou Mural Festival

🗓 Sunday, Oct. 18

Galveston Fall Art Fest

Community Trunk or Treat

Diwali Lights

Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Anna Raj and edited by Paula Solis.

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