Here’s my list of events for the week! Note that Super Bowl Live continues through Sunday although Solange and Robert Glasper are on Thursday, anti-racist activist Tim Wise has events throughout the week not just on Thursday, and for a bonus event check out Tailored Wednesdays which will feature DJ duo Soul Control! Who knows, I might add more events if I see something interesting so check back. Of course subscribe to the newsletter and if you want a glimpse of my social calendar head to Merlex Picks!

1. SUPER BOWL LIVE CONCERTS

Monday, January 30, 2017 – Sunday, February 5, 2017

There are two separate groups of free concerts happening throughout the week, one on Discovery Green with local acts such as Genesis Blu and Mind Shrine, and the other on a nearby separate stage with more well-known acts such as Robert Glasper, Leon Bridges and Solange. Learn more here.

2. GET TRAINED TO MAINTAIN JUSTICE AT THE TEXAS STATE CAPITOL

Tuesday, January 31, 2017, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

If you’ve been following the recent anti-immigrant and anti-refugee efforts made by the new presidential administration but don’t know how to get involved, this is an opportunity where those interested can become knowledgeable about local issues such as Texas Senate Bill 4 and organizations such as United We Dream working to address them. Learn more here.

3. ANTI-RACISM ACTIVIST TIM WISE AND A CONVERSATION WITH BLMHTX

Thursday, February 2, 2017, 3:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Author and educator Tim Wise is currently Scholar-in-Residence at the University of Houston-Downtown and is holding a series of events this week. Here he joins local collective BLMHTX for a discussion at St. John’s Downtown before holding a lecture and book-signing at 6:00 p.m. at UHD. Learn more here.

4. MENIL NEIGHBORHOOD NIGHT

Thursday, February 2, 2017, 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

If you decide not to brave the crowds of Solange’s concert you can head to one of Beyonce’s favorite museums for live jazz, food trucks, and wonderful art in the always-free Menil Collection. And if you leave early head to design house Magpies and Peacocks‘ beautiful space for a free sustainable art and fashion showcase. Learn more here.

5. THE WAXAHOLICS 5TH ANNIVERSARY FEATURING DEVIN THE DUDE

Thursday, February 2, 2017, 8:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m.

DJ collective The Waxaholics are celebrating five years of hosting their all-vinyl party which always packs Alley Kat on Thursday nights. They’re charging a cover this time so make sure you RSVP to catch Devin the Dude also doing a set. Learn more here. 

6. LOVE JONES THE MUSICAL

Thursday, February 2, 2017 – Saturday, February 4, 2017

This musical stars Tank, Chrisette Michele, Dave Hollister, Raheem DeVaughn, and MC Lyte in a retelling of the classic 90’s film starring Nia Long and Larenz Tate. If you’re into spoken word or just very nostalgic you’ll probably love it. Learn more here.

7. ACT ONE YOUNG PROFESSIONALS BLACK HISTORY MONTH MIXER

Friday, February 3, 2017, 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

The Ensemble Theatre is holding a gathering for young professionals as it celebrates the life and legacy of gospel music icon Mahalia Jackson whose voice was especially significant during the civil rights era. You can also buy tickets to the 8pm showing of the musical Mahalia. Learn more here.

8. ESPN’S “THE UNDEFEATED” PRESENTS: A CONVERSATION ON RACE, SPORTS & CULTURE

Friday, February 3, 2017, 2:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Multiplatform media outlet The Undefeated will facilitate two panel discussions on sports-related issues including professional responsibility, black stardom, and players in the media. The forum will also be streamed online. Learn more here.

9. CHEAP DATE 3: A $20 ART SHOW & MARKET

Friday, February 3, 2017, 7:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.

For an alternative to the typical Friday night activity during Super Bowl this one-night art show has a huge line-up of local artists coming out to sell their original work all for $20 or less. The prints, pins, shirts, and zines on display are perfect for the art enthusiast on a budget. Make sure to bring $3 cash for entry. Learn more here.

10. LITUATION: A 3RD COAST SUPER DAY PARTY

Saturday, February 4, 2017, 1:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

With limited free options during Super Bowl weekend, this party at Scrappy Brown’s will be packed. They have a full kitchen and bar along with DJ Meek Tha Freak spinning but make sure you RSVP for free entry. Learn more here.

Bonus: I know I already have a lot going on Thursday but if you’re interested in education organizing check out Leadership for Educational Equity’s weekly gatherings from 6-8 pm at the United Way. For those of you who don’t know I do a lot of education stuff.