Declare your independence from work with these event ideas for Independence Week

THE WOODLANDS, TX – Though we’re still practically a full weekend and work week before the July 4 holiday, some people take this opportunity to enjoy an extended summer break away from school and work alike. If today’s quitting time is your last planned time in the office until after the Independence Weekend celebrations, here are some weektime events you can mull over.

Friday, June 27

Copendero Indoor Archery, Pistol, & Rifle Range is offering Full-Auto Friday, where you can enjoy your Second Amendment rights by blasting the tar out of targets with fully automatic weapons in a safe, secure, and comfortable environment, with no rental fees!

https://www.woodlandsonline.com/evps/evitem.cfm?evid=190237

Saturday, June 28

Grab your hot dogs – we’re talking about your pets, not the food – and enjoy an afternoon at Playful Pack Dog Daycare & Grooming at their Open Play Saturday. Prospective Playful Packmates (and their humans!) are invited to drop in, meet the team, explore the facility, and – of course – let the pups play! It’s the perfect way to see what they’re all about in a low-pressure, high-fun environment. This is free to attend and includes staff meet-and-greets, facility tours, and off-leash playtimes.

https://www.woodlandsonline.com/evps/evitem.cfm?evid=192222

Are you bummed that most American sports are on hiatus right now? This is the perfect time to get into alternate sports like rugby, and The Blue Lion Pub has the entire day set up for the Major League Rugby Championships. Come watch the Houston Sabercats take home the trophy on the big screen and the sound on loud. They’ll even have staff on hand to explain the sport’s rules to you.

https://www.woodlandsonline.com/evps/evitem.cfm?evid=193506

There’s nothing more American than supporting local business, and The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at the newly renovated Grogan’s Mill Village Center will be filled with booths from artisans, craftspeople, farmers, entrepreneurs, service providers, and restaurateurs! Vendors offer local produce, meat, eggs, honey, coffee, bread, meals, and more.

https://www.woodlandsonline.com/evps/evitem.cfm?evid=192650

Sunday, June 29

Did you know the tax on tea that pretty much started off the American Revolution was about three percent? Reflect back on the good old days where one-tenth of what we currently pay was once enough for us to start dumping stuff overboard. What better way than by enjoying a good old fashioned High Tea, British style, at The Tea Kettle Cafe? Reservations are required.

https://www.woodlandsonline.com/evps/evitem.cfm?evid=192259

Sawyer Park Icehouse is hosting the Houston Margarita Festival today. Celebrate other cultures and join the ultimate margarita showdown as you sample the best margaritas in town and cast your vote for the top spot. Beyond the Margarita Tasting Contest, there will also be a live DJ, food vendors, beer garden, and a trip giveaway.

https://www.woodlandsonline.com/evps/evitem.cfm?evid=193462

Monday, June 30

If you’re masochistic enough to exercise outdoors in The Woodlands summer, do we have the answer for you. The Goose’s Acre Running Club is on a mission to create a culture of fitness, fun, and philanthropy through free weekly 5K runs. Hosted every Monday night at The Goose's Acre Bistro & Irish Pub, this social running club brings together fitness-minded individuals to build a stronger, healthier community while giving back to local charities. Members of the club get awesome perks like food and drink discounts, swag, merch, and more. No membership fees, no pressure – just a great group of people coming together to run, socialize, and make a difference.

https://www.woodlandsonline.com/evps/evitem.cfm?evid=191717

Tuesday, July 1

Maybe you’re dreading firing up the grill and want someone else to provide the meat for you. Look no further than Ale & Ivy, who fills the day – and your stomach – with Tomahawk Tuesday. Get your choice of a 40-ounce Tomahawk for $55 – or a 16-oz ribeye for $18.99 – with mashed potatoes and a side salad. At 40 ounces, this may be the last meal you’ll need before July 4.

https://www.woodlandsonline.com/evps/evitem.cfm?evid=191328

Sometimes, you just need to stop and smell the roses; failing that, to stop and appreciate the art. The Woodlands Arts Council is currently showcasing its summer exhibition, ‘Essence: People & Places,’ featuring the vibrant work of visionary artist Jim N. Hill. This colorful and expressive collection invites viewers into a world of serene landscapes, cheerful moments, and reflections on the joy of everyday life. The perfect mind and soul reset!

https://www.woodlandsonline.com/evps/evitem.cfm?evid=192163

Wednesday, July 2

Wellness Concierge Sandra Huskey invites you to join The Westin at The Woodlands in celebrating the 4th of July with a Red, White and Blue 5k Fun Run / Walk. This free event starts in the lobby of Embassy Suites The Woodlands at Hughes Landing. Choose to run a 5k or enjoy a more leisurely 2-mile walk along the scenic waterway. It’s a perfect way to start your day with a dose of fitness and fun! Wear your red, white, and blue. Have some fun with your attire – crazy socks, colorful shorts, or tutus and sparkles are welcomed, but not required. Their lobby bar, E’terie, will provide complimentary coffee upon your return to the hotel.

https://www.woodlandsonline.com/evps/evitem.cfm?evid=192080

Thursday, July 3

Body & Brain Yoga & Tai Chi Magnolia knows how stressful the summer can be – holidays or no – and has a special yoga and meditation program designed just for you. Stretch, breathe, and center yourself in this signature class designed to enhance flexibility, relaxation, and energy. It offers a full mind-body recharge for overall wellness. This class is ideal for releasing physical tension, quietening a busy mind, relieving stress, better sleep, improved flexibility, and relief of joint and back pain.

https://www.woodlandsonline.com/evps/evitem.cfm?evid=191579

There’s no better way to kick off your Independence Day celebrations in The Woodlands than with the iconic Star-Spangled Salute, being held at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion tonight. This beloved event features the renowned Houston Symphony in a free show that captures the spirit of liberty, community, and the power of music. No ticket is required – just bring your friends, your family, and your patriotic pride. Gates open at 5:30 p.m., with the show beginning promptly at 7:00. This year’s theme, ‘Liberty, justice, and arts access for all, reflects the event’s deeper mission – to make the arts accessible to everyone, regardless of background or budget.

https://www.woodlandsonline.com/evps/evitem.cfm?evid=190541

We’ll have another list of fun things to do and places to go for the actual July 4 weekend holiday coming to you early next week in plenty of time for you to plan your family or solo ventures. In the meantime, it bears remembering that fireworks are illegal within the boundaries of The Woodlands Township (so know your neighborhoods), and also that local law enforcement provides special drive-bys and check-ins of your property if you plan to head out of town for vacation.