
11 Houston-area Starbucks closing due to company restructuring
by Sierra Rozen
| October 1, 2025
Coffee lovers across the US are having to ditch their normal haunts, as Starbucks closed over 400 locations across the country this past week.

Get ready to Empty the Shelters in Houston at BARC Animal Shelter
by Sierra Rozen
| September 30, 2025
That’s what BARC Animal Shelter hopes will happen at the Empty the Shelters event. From Oct. 1-15, BARC Animal Shelter, along with 300+ shelters across 38 states, will be offering reduced adoptions fees through a partnership with BISSELL Pet Foundation.

12 Houston events to help you fall into October
by Sierra Rozen
| September 29, 2025
It’s every fall lover's favorite month! And while Houston is still enjoying (or sweating in) hotter weather for the season, there are still plenty of upcoming events to help get you in the spooky and autumnal spirit. Keep reading for just a few of the festivals and other events we’re looking forward to.

Houston’s Southern Smoke Festival returns with its biggest lineup yet
| September 29, 2025
2025 southern smoke festival | Community | CULTURE | ENTERTAINMENT | food and drink | HARDGATE | HOUSTON LEAD STORY | HTX | LIFESTYLE | southern smoke festival | tourism
Sample bites from 85+ top chefs, sip signature cocktails, and enjoy live music at Houston’s biggest culinary block party on October 4.

New sports-themed gay bar set to open in the heart of Montrose
by Sierra Rozen
| September 25, 2025
It has to be said: While Texas might not always be viewed as a state where queer people can thrive, the city of Houston has always had a vibrant LGBTQ+ culture, including its own “gayborhood” in Montrose.


