When the weather gets hot, Houston kids go out to play

It’s hot. That’s one thing about where I live that never really changes. Sure, we had an unusually cold winter this year. But by “unusually cold” we mean that it stayed in the 50s at night a month longer than normal and it almost snowed that one time.

Now, it’s almost July and the days of 100+ degree temps are upon us, which means we’re all headed outdoors for some good Texas fun.

It wasn’t until I made friends with people from up north that I realized we’re unique in our general okay-ness with super hot weather. It’s just that for us, there’s no other option, so we might as well embrace it. (and then there are some, like me, who just LOVE it hot.)

This conversation was sponsored by Ozarka® Brand Spring water – which comes from 3 Texas springs and has that unique “Texas” taste!

So what are we crazy texans doing now that it’s blazing hot outside?

We’re blueberry picking…

We’re going to the gulf…

We’re hitting up the zoo…

We’re playing in the best indoor mall playgrounds…

and best of all, watching live plays and musicals at the Miller Outdoor Theater.

This is one of my favorite parts of the Summer! We load up in the car with picnic blanket, snacks, lunch and whole LOT of Ozarka® water to keep us hydrated and we’re off.

Parking was always tight at the theater because it shares with Herman Park and the zoo in downtown Houston, but they built an extra parking lot last year which has meant easier access to the theater.

Did I mention all of the shows at Miller theater are free as a display of true, Texas hospitality? Because they are.

In the mornings they have children’s plays and in the evenings you’ll find shows from the Houston symphony, AD players and sometimes even movies at Miller!

The kids always love running down the hill when the show is over!

While there is theater seating, we prefer to sit on the hill directly behind the theater. You can still see great and this means you can sit on a blanket and snack throughout the entire show. Snack swapping is one of my favorite parts of going to the Miller Outdoor Theater with friends. It’s always fun to see what everyone brings, and there are so many fun options that are from right here in Texas!

My personal favorite right now? Paqui tortilla chips and Cookwell & Company queso. Both made in Texas, both Ah-May-Zing! I love the authentic tex-mex flavor that both bring to the table (or picnic blanket) and putting them together is just bliss.

My husband on the other hand likes the Taste Elevated products because he can cook them up into something amazing! He loves experimenting with new flavors and these do not disappoint! He was pretty excited when we pulled them out of the box from Ozarka®. And don’t get us started on the Jelly Queens rubs. There are so many to choose from! It’s fun to have them pre-made from right here in Texas. It wouldn’t quite be Texas without BBQ and Snow’s BBQ sauce does not disappoint! Yellow Bird sauce is another local favorite, I can’t handle the heat but for anyone that can, this is the sauce for you!

Texas is home to so much fun, entertainment and lots of great food. Have you ever visited my home state? What was your favorite experience and food?