578/20/2024
As the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris draw to a close, the City of Houston is rolling out the red carpet for its hometown heroes. A grand citywide celebration, dubbed "Welcome Home HOU," is set to honor the athletes who represented not only their country but also the heart and soul of Houston on the global stage.
In collaboration with Houston First Corp., Harris County-Houston Sports Authority, and the broader sports community, Houston is gearing up for months of festivities. The campaign isn't just about celebrating medals; it’s about celebrating the spirit of competition, the resilience, and the sheer determination that these athletes have shown. The excitement kicked off with a warm, hero’s welcome at Bush Intercontinental Airport, where family, fans, and city representatives gathered, waving signs and cheering as the athletes returned home.
Mayor John Whitmire expressed the city's pride, stating, "Whether or not they won a medal, they are winners to us. We will acknowledge their courage, character, sportsmanship, and perseverance."
A Star-Studded Line-Up of Events
The celebration is packed with events that will allow Houstonians to join in honoring these Olympians. From soccer matches to football games, and even the annual Thanksgiving Day parade, there’s something for everyone.
Houston Dash at Shell Energy Stadium - August 23, 7 p.m.
The Houston Dash will take the lead in this celebratory series by honoring Olympians from around the world who now call Houston home. This includes members of the gold-medal-winning U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team, as well as athletes from Brazil and Nigeria. The match against Orlando Pride promises to be a night filled with pride, not only for the game but for the achievements of these incredible women.
Confirmed Olympians in Attendance:
- USWNT: Emily Sams, Jane Campbell (Alternate)
- Brazil Women’s National Team: Tarciane, Marta (3X Silver Medalist), Rafaelle Souza, Adriana, Angelina
- Nigeria Women’s National Team: Michelle Alozie
- Zambia Women’s National Team: Grace Chanda
Houston Texans at NRG Park - August 24, Noon
The Houston Texans, alongside the McNair Family, will welcome the Olympians on August 24, inviting them to partake in pregame celebrations. Fans are encouraged to show their support and “put their H’s up” as the Texans take on the Los Angeles Rams.
Confirmed Olympians in Attendance:
- Boxing: Joshua Edwards
- Soccer: Michelle Alozie
- Volleyball: Avery Skinner
- Break Dancing: Jeffrey Louis
- Track & Field: Bryce Deadmon, Shelby McEwen
University of Houston vs Rice at TDECU Stadium - September 14, 7 p.m.
The University of Houston will spotlight its seven representatives from the 2024 Paris Olympic Games during their match against Rice University. This group marks the largest delegation sent by the university since the 2000 Sydney Games.
Participants:
- Track & Field: Tristan Evelyn (Team Barbados), Louie Hinchliffe (Team Great Britain), Shaun Maswanganyi (Team South Africa)
- Swimming: Elizabeth Jimenez (Team Dominican Republic), Alondra Ortiz (Team Costa Rica)
- Track & Field: Cecilia Tamayo-Garza (Team Mexico)
Houston Astros at Minute Maid Park - Date TBD
The Houston Astros are planning a special celebration at Minute Maid Park, where they will honor Olympians with a pregame ceremony and special in-game recognitions. This event promises to be a highlight of the season, bringing together the city’s love for baseball and its pride in its Olympians.
City of Houston and HEB Thanksgiving Day Parade - November 28, 9 a.m.
The grand finale of the "Welcome Home HOU" celebration will be the 75th H-E-B Thanksgiving Day Parade. With larger-than-life balloons, marching bands, and creative floats, the parade will be a vibrant tribute to the athletes who made Houston proud at the Paris Olympics and Paralympics. It’s an open invitation to all Houstonians to join in the fun and celebrate the achievements of these incredible athletes.
Stay Updated
The celebration doesn’t end here. The "Welcome Home HOU" campaign will continue to bring you events and updates through the rest of the year. Visit the official website regularly to stay informed and be part of Houston’s most spirited celebration.
Houston Style Magazine is proud to support and celebrate our city’s Olympians. Let’s come together as a community to honor these champions who have brought glory to Houston and continue to inspire us all.
The Welcome Home HOU website will be updated regularly with information about upcoming events.