This summer, East River Houston—Midway’s transformative 150-acre mixed-use development along Buffalo Bayou—invites Houstonians to experience a dynamic blend of music, culture, entrepreneurship, and community connection. The newly announced 2025 East River Summer Series promises a season of live entertainment, family-friendly fun, and a powerful celebration of local Black-owned businesses and artists, all set against the city’s most exciting new waterfront destination.

 Beats on the Bayou/Evoto
 

With an emphasis on culture, creativity, and community engagement, the lineup features three marquee events: the launch of CoolxWax Summer Fest, the return of the beloved Beats on the Bayou concert series, and the ever-popular BLCK Market Summer League Pop-Up Shop. All events are free and open to the public, offering Houstonians accessible and memorable ways to connect in the heart of the city.

🎧 New for 2025: CoolxWax Summer Fest Spins Into East River

Partnering with CoolxDad, the Houston-based nonprofit uplifting and empowering fathers of color, East River proudly introduces CoolxWax Summer Fest, a vibrant new DJ series that centers culture and community. Set to take place on the fourth Sunday of each month—June 29, July 27, and August 31, from 6–9 PM—this event will feature high-energy, all-vinyl sets from the city’s iconic Waxaholics DJ collective.

The atmosphere will be family-friendly, intentionally inclusive, and deeply rooted in connection. Guests will enjoy an open-air musical experience while learning more about CoolxDad’s mission to support Black fatherhood and community well-being.

“CoolxWax Summer Fest isn’t just about music—it’s about healing, celebrating, and building community through sound,” said CoolxDad co-founder [Name if available].

🎶 Beats on the Bayou: The Soundtrack of Summer in Houston

Returning for another show-stopping season, Beats on the Bayou continues to set the tone for waterfront entertainment in Houston. Taking place on the first Friday of each month at The Bayou Park (6–9 PM), the series offers Houstonians the perfect opportunity to unwind with lawn chairs, blankets, and live performances from some of the city's top artists.

 BLCK Market
 

June 6: A special night curated around Southern Glory, the album by Grammy-nominated producer Isaac Yowman, inspired by his powerful short film Memory Builds the Monument, which celebrates the musical history of Houston’s Fifth Ward. Featured performers include Patrice Dominique, Phil Wade, and surprise guests.

July 4: Celebrate Independence Day with a high-energy performance by Houston rock favorites, The Slags.

August 1: Get ready for a hip-hop infused night with DJ P Charm and Clutch City.

Future shows will be announced throughout the season, ensuring Beats on the Bayou remains a can’t-miss monthly ritual for East River visitors.

🛍️ BLCK Market’s Summer League Pop-Up: Where Culture Meets Commerce

Now reimagined with a new theme, BLCK Market at East River returns as the Summer League Pop-Up Shop, transforming the waterfront into a monthly celebration of Black excellence and entrepreneurship. Taking place on the third Saturday of each month—June 21, July 19, and August 16—from 11 AM to 3 PM, the market will spotlight an expansive selection of Black-owned brands and businesses from Houston and beyond.

Expect vibrant energy, live music, DJs, food trucks, family fun, and basketball-inspired activations—an homage to summer street culture. Guests can shop everything from handmade candles and skincare to original art, fashion, books, and collectibles.

Recognized as America’s largest monthly Black-owned business market, BLCK Market is more than a shopping experience—it’s a movement dedicated to empowering Black entrepreneurs and creating equitable economic opportunities.

🌇 East River: A Vision Realized for Houston’s Urban Core

East River is more than a development—it’s a revitalized urban destination redefining what it means to live, work, and play in Houston. With more than a mile of waterfront, thoughtfully designed green spaces, walkable districts, and a focus on culture-driven programming, East River is quickly becoming the heartbeat of Houston’s next generation of growth.

As the summer season heats up, East River continues to deliver on its promise to serve as a vibrant, inclusive space where art, music, entrepreneurship, and community intersect.

🔗 Plan Your Summer at East River

All events are free and open to the public. For the latest updates on parking, performances, vendors, and more, visit www.EastRiverHTX.com or follow @EastRiverHouston on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.