October’s Local Edit: Houston Fall Events, Just Glazed Donuts & Bryan’s Chili
Adapted from Bryan’s newsletter sent October 7, 2026. The event roundup below records the listings shared in that edition. Some dates have already passed; confirm remaining dates, admission and availability with organizers before making plans.
A note from Bryan
It has been a full season in the Lillis house, with school, activities and family get-togethers. Chelsea also decided it was time to redo our home study, so I have been returning to my construction roots after the kids go to bed: hanging crown molding and learning limewash. This month’s edit brings a little of that home life, a favorite Katy morning stop and a pot of chili for football season.
Free activities from the October 2026 edition
Deep in the Heart Concert Series at Discovery Green: October 8, 15, 22 and 29, 7–9 p.m. The newsletter suggested an evening of Texas music with a blanket under the stars.
Fulshear’s Folly at the Fulshear Municipal Complex: October 10, 4–8 p.m. Korean Festival at Discovery Green: October 10–11. These early-October listings are now part of the edition’s archive.
Cinco Ranch Trunk or Treat at Physicians PremiER on Spring Green Boulevard in Katy: October 17, 10 a.m.–1 p.m., listed with trick-or-treating, a pumpkin patch, face painting and fall activities.
Bayou City Fellowship Trunk or Treat at the Cypress campus, 12715 Telge Road: October 25, 4–6 p.m. Yappy Hour at Pawm Springs Dog Park in Sugar Land: October 29, with food and drink purchases extra.
Scream on the Green at Discovery Green: October 30, 6–9 p.m. Halloween Family Festival at The Dryer in Katy: October 31, 4–8 p.m., listed with vendor trick-or-treating, crafts and a DJ.
Ticketed activities from the October edition
Katy Rice Harvest Festival in Historic Downtown Katy: October 10–11. The newsletter listed $15 admission for ages 13 and up, free entry for children 12 and under and separate carnival tickets.
Texas Renaissance Festival in Todd Mission: weekends beginning October 10 through November 29. Zoo Boo at Houston Zoo: through October 31, listed as included with regular zoo admission.
Halloween Town at Constellation Field in Sugar Land: October 29, 5–9 p.m., listed at $7 with children 3 and under free. Wings Over Houston at Ellington Airport: October 31–November 1.
October home checkup
Check the HVAC filter and arrange seasonal service if needed. Clear gutters and drains, inspect weatherstripping, test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, and check porch, walkway and security lighting as the days become shorter.
From Bryan’s Table: beef chili
A big pot of chili and football on TV is about as classic as fall gets. I found this recipe online and made a few tweaks for our family. It is easy to bring together, and I like giving it plenty of time to simmer.
Ingredients
2 pounds ground beef; 1 diced onion; 2 chopped jalapeños, seeded for less heat if preferred; 4 minced garlic cloves; 3 tablespoons chili powder; 1 tablespoon cumin; 1 diced green bell pepper; 1 can crushed tomatoes; 1 can drained and rinsed red kidney beans; 1 can diced tomatoes; 1½ cups beef broth; 1 can beer; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; brown sugar, salt and pepper to taste. Can sizes were not specified in the original family recipe.
Optional toppings: Fritos, shredded cheddar, green onions and sour cream. Cornbread is always welcome.
Method
Brown the beef with chili powder in a large pot, breaking it into small pieces, and drain some excess fat. Add the onion, jalapeños and garlic, cooking until the onion begins to soften.
Stir in the bell pepper, cumin, tomatoes, beans, broth, beer and tomato paste. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for at least 45–60 minutes or until thickened to your liking. Add broth if needed. Taste and adjust with brown sugar, salt and pepper, then serve with your favorite toppings. Put on some football and enjoy. Go Bills!
Local spotlight: Just Glazed Donuts in Katy
6840 South Mason Road, Suite 800, Katy, TX 77450, as featured in October.
Growing up around Buffalo and later living in New York City spoiled me for donuts. Just Glazed is one of the first places I found in Texas that hit that same mark for me: fresh donuts, outstanding kolaches and a friendly team.
My go-to order is a sausage jalapeño kolache, a blueberry donut and a cinnamon glazed twist. I recommend going early because favorites can sell out. It is a great little stop for bringing a box home to the kids or picking up a post-game treat.
By Bryan Lillis, LUXE Realty Team | RE/MAX Grand. A personal perspective on life around Katy and greater Houston.
Comments