Free Summer Festivals in Houston, Texas

This summer, it's easy to stay busy in the Houston/Galveston area of Texas, without spending a fortune. All around the city, suburbs and surrounding areas, events of all types are hosted, with something fun for everyone's tastes and styles. Many spring and summer festivals are being hosted, some with a small entry or admission fee, some with exorbitant entry or admission fees.

We've searched high and low in the Houston area, though, to find three fantastic fun festivals with absolutely free admission. Let's take a look at the festivities:

Texas City-La Marque Chamber of Commerce FunFest

About twenty minutes from downtown Houston, in the Houston Suburbs of Texas City, Texas and La Marque Texas, you'll find the annual summer FunFest, hosted by the Chamber of Commerce.

The Festival's website says, "There will be something for everyone" Arts and Crafts, Food, Entertainment, Dance, Run By The Bay Fun Run, Ladies Golf Tournament, BBQ Cook-off, Children's Activities, Tennis Tournament, Star Search and more."

The Texas City-La Marque Chamber of Commerce FunFest is free for admission, and you'll find amusement park rides, a train ride, plenty of food, fun and games. Some of the booths and rides will cost, and armbands for the carnival are available for one low price, but it's completely free to join the festivities. Bring a picnic basket or cooler, tailgate it, and enjoy.

Where: Carlos Garza Sports Complex, 34th Street @ Magnolia, Texas City, TX, United States, 77590

When: June 10-11, 2011

More Info: Website

Oleander Festival, Moody Gardens, Galveston, Texas

A short half-hour drive from Houston, Texas to Moody Gardens on Galveston Island is worth the trip any time of year. The Pyramids at Moody Gardens are amazing, with the aquarium, rainforest, butterfly exhibit and more, is a great place to spend a day or two, not to mention the private beach and splash pool.

But if you're interested in a flowers, particularly oleanders, this Oleander Festival is where you need to be. The festival doesn't stop with just the oleanders, though. There is the Birding Tour, and photography opportunities and events for kids too. Best of all, the festival is free. (Some events charge fees.)

Where: Moody Gardens, Galveston Island

When: May 21, 2011

More Info: Website

Houston Shakespeare Festival - Miller Outdoor Theatre

During the month of August, 2011, you can visit Miller Outdoor Theatre and enjoy the Shakespearian era in a state-of-the-art outdoor amphitheater. Many of Shakespeare's plays will be performed during this event, including Taming of the Shrew, and other popular Shakespearian acts.

The grass seating is free and the park is handicapped accessible. Be sure to plan for parking, since many of the lots around the area charge a small fee, but it's a small price to pay to enjoy the free Shakespeare Festival events.

Where: Miller Outdoor Theatre

When: August 2011 (see website for each play's date)

More Info: Website

Bonus Festival - Texas Music Festival

This festival is included as a bonus, because it's not exactly a free festival. The Texas Music Festival, in League City, Texas, a suburb of the Houston area, charges $15 on Friday and Saturday, but if you're willing to wait until Sunday, admission is free.

This one is coming up soon, May 5-8th, 2011, so be sure to plan quickly!

Where: Walter Hall Park, 807 Highway 3 North League City, Texas 77573

When: May 5-8, 2011

More Info: Website

Enjoy Houston and Galveston and the surrounding suburbs this summer, and if you have the time, stop by one of these free festivals and have fun.