George Hermann’s 179th Birthday, Back to School Splash Bash top family fun picks

Hermann Park Conservancy celebrates the 179th birthday of the park's namesake, George Hermann.

Hermann Park Conservancy celebrates the 179th birthday of the park's namesake, George Hermann.

Photo: Alan Warren, Staff Photographer / Houston Community Newspapers

Jurassic Quest

The largest and most realistic dinosaur exhibit in North America returns to Houston, bringing lifelike moving and roaring dinosaurs, dinosaur-themed rides and attractions, live dinosaur shows, interactive science and art activities, including a giant fossil dig, real fossils, a “Triceratots” soft play area for the littlest explorers, photo opportunities and more.

When:9 a.m.-8 p.m. Aug. 5-6 and 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Aug. 7

Where:NRG Center, Hall D, 1 NRG Parkway

Details:$19-$36;jurassicquest.com

Breakfast with an Astronaut

Get a glimpse into the space program from an astronaut’s perspective while enjoying a delicious breakfast catered by Wolfgang Puck. After the presentation, join in a Q&A session with the veteran space explorer.

When:8:30 a.m. Aug. 5-7

Where:Space Center Houston, 1601 NASA Parkway

Details:$79.95-$99.95;spacecenter.org

Abilities Expo

The disability resource fair returns to Houston, highlighting the latest products, services and technologies. Exhibitors, demos, workshops and inclusive activities, such as adaptive sports, dance and assistance animals, are on tap.

When:11 a.m.-5 p.m. Aug. 5-6 and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Aug. 7

Where:NRG Center, Hall E, 1 NRG Parkway

Details:abilities.com/houston

Hunters Extravaganza

The 46th annual Hunters Extravaganza returns to NRG Center, showcasing and offering hunting products, accessories, clothing, rifles, knives, archery equipment, blinds, feeders, ATVs, optics, game calls and more.

When:3-8 p.m. Aug. 5, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Aug. 6 and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Aug. 7

Where:NRG中心大厅,NRG百汇

Details:$20, $10 for ages 6-17;ttha.com/events/view/hunters-extravaganza

Chalk on the Block

Take a stroll at Bagby Park in Midtown and enjoy different chalk artwork by various local artists.

When:10 a.m.-2 p.m. Aug. 6

Where:Bagby Park, 415 Gray

Details:Free;midtownhouston.com

George Hermann’s 179th Birthday

Join Hermann Park Conservancy as they celebrate the 179th birthday of the park’s namesake, George Hermann. Children 12 and younger can ride the Hermann Park Railroad for just $1.79. Visitors of all ages can also enjoy $1.79 food specials at Ginger Kale and free frozen treats at Gelu Italian Ice. And since no birthday party is complete without cake, complimentary birthday cake, face painting and arts and crafts will be offered, while supplies last.

When:10 a.m.-2 p.m. Aug. 6

Where:Hermann Park, Kinder Station, 6001 Fannin

Details:Free;hermannpark.org

Family Zone on the Go

Be on the lookout for the Family Art Cart as it makes its way around the galleries at MFAH. Find engaging activities, coloring sheets and colored pencils as well we knowledgeable staff members that can answer questions about the works of art on view.

When:1-4 p.m. Aug. 7

Where:Nancy and Rich Kinder Building, 5500 Main

Details:Included with general admission, $12-$19;mfah.org

SUGAR LAND

Back to School Splash Bash

Join in on the fun at Sugar Land Town Square with free waterslides, DJ, a hula-hoop contest, toddler town and other fun activities. The event benefits the Fort Bend Rainbow Room and visitors are encouraged to donate school supplies.

When:11 a.m.-2 p.m. Aug. 6

Where:Sugar Land Town Square, 15958 City Walk

Details:Free;sugarlandtownsquare.com

  • Ana Khan
    Ana Khan

    Ana Khan is the calendar coordinator for the Houston Chronicle's features desk.