The beloved event is returning for its 39th annual downtown stroll, with free events starting this Thursday ahead of the big parade on Saturday, April 11.

With more than 250 participants and between 200,000 and 300,000 spectators, the Houston Art Car Parade is now the biggest celebration of “art cars” in the world. Dozens of organizations, public and private schools, and community groups are now frequent participants. Every year, Houston artists and some beyond the boundaries of our city continue to push the envelope and up the level of the artwork. 

It all began in 1984, when Kit and Carl Detering donated a 1967 Ford station wagon to the Orange Show Foundation. With about $800 worth of paint and plastic fruit, Houston artist Jackie Harris turned the automobile into a moving piece of art, creating the “Fruitmobile.” In the same year, local artist Ann Harithas organized Collision at Lawndale Art Center, which included art automobiles that quickly started to show up rolling along the Houston streets. 

9 a.m.–1 p.m.: Main Street Drag

Main Street Drag will feature mini parades throughout the city, with art cars popping up at spaces where residents may not have the opportunity to make it out to the big parade on Saturday, like schools, developmental facilities, hospitals and nursing homes.

6–9 p.m.: Art Car Sneak Peek

There is a sneak peek that will allow spectators to get up close and personal with some art car vehicles and enjoy food and drinks at Discovery Green and nearby along Avenue Houston. 

6–11 p.m.: Legendary Art Car Ball

11 a.m.–2 p.m.: Line Up Party + Kids Creative Zone

There will be a pre-parade party on Taft Street to Bagby Street along Allen Parkway with food and drink available. The event will feature all 250 art cars in place before their jaunt around the city for the parade. There will also be a creative zone for children to participate in art-focused activities before the big event. 

2 p.m.: The 39th Houston Art Car Parade

The main attraction kicks off at 2 p.m. with more than 250 truly unique vehicles with some extremely creative artwork. The parade itself is free, and parking along the parade route is also free. The procession will start at the intersection of Dallas and Bagby streets, circle Houston City Hall, go along Allen Parkway, and finish west of downtown close to Waugh Drive. There are ticketed seats available for purchase.