The Pavilion Reveals Exciting 2026 Performing Arts Lineup with Free Events All Season Long

THE WOODLANDS, TX -- The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion is proud to unveil a diverse and dynamic lineup for the 2026 Performing Arts Series, bringing together a vibrant mix of live music, film, dance and family-friendly programming. In alignment with The Pavilion’s mission to inspire new audiences and deepen the appreciation for the arts, all events in the series are completely free – no tickets required!

From the moment guests arrive, The Pavilion comes alive with an atmosphere that is as engaging as it is inviting, where families spread out on the lawn, friends gather under the stars and first time visitors feel just as at home as longtime patrons. It’s a place where the arts are not only experienced, but shared, creating a sense of connection and community that carries through every performance.

“‘Ohana means family, and family means nobody gets left behind or forgotten,” and that spirit of togetherness kicks off the 2026 PA season on Friday, June 5. A lively Polynesian Dance performance by My Hula Hut, paired with a screening of Lilo & Stitch will bring a colorful celebration of island culture and cinematic fun for the whole family.

The Houston Symphony returns on Wednesday, June 17 with The Music of Journey, delivering an electrifying night of classic rock hits that will have audiences singing along—because “don’t stop believin’” is more than a lyric, it’s the vibe of the night. Then on Tuesday, June 23, fall in love all over again with The Princess Bride, as the Symphony performs the score live alongside the film. It’s inconceivable… how wonderfully nostalgic this show is sure to be!

Patriotic spirit claims the Main Stage on Friday, July 3 with the annual Star-Spangled Salute, a cherished Independence Day tradition featuring stirring anthems and family favorites with plenty of crafts and takeaways in the plazas before the show.

On July 10, keep the miracle burning with a vibrant Mixteco Ballet Folklórico performance followed by Disney’s Encanto, celebrating Latin culture through dance and music. Then, the very next week, The Woodlands Symphony takes the stage on Wednesday, July 15 with Game On! A Symphony of Sport, a high-energy celebration of iconic sports themes that will have audiences ready to cheer, chant, and maybe even shout “we are the champions!”

The Houston Symphony returns Tuesday, July 21 with The Music of Billy Joel and Elton John Starring Michael Cavanaugh a dynamic tribute to two legendary artists that promise an unforgettable night of hits, so get ready, because it’s still rock and roll to us.

The fall season begins Wednesday, September 9 with When Instruments Roamed the Earth, a fun and educational concert presented by the Houston Symphony. Later in the month, on Tuesday, September 29, the Woodlands Symphony presents Dead Symphony – Music of the Grateful Dead, fusion of symphonic sound and classic rock spirit. It’s going to be a long, strange (delightful) trip.

As Halloween approaches, the Houston Symphony brings spooky fun to the stage with Hocus Pocus Pops on Friday, October 23, featuring enchanting music and festive entertainment for all ages—because it’s all just a bunch of hocus pocus… in the best way.

The season concludes on a joyful note with Holly Jolly Jingle on Thursday, December 3, featuring holiday favorites performed by Conroe ISD student musicians — the perfect way to celebrate the season.

Families are encouraged to enhance their performing arts experience with Mini Pavilion Maestros, a free and engaging program designed to make the arts fun and accessible for kids of all ages. By signing up, children receive a membership lanyard and badge, free reserved seating at performing arts events, early entry for select shows, a free ticket to Children’s Festival and more. Families can register at any performing arts event at the North Plaza booth or online at https://www.woodlandscenter.org/mini-maestros

Stage Lighters is an exclusive arts membership that offers access to the best of The Pavilion’s arts programming while supporting arts accessibility for the community. In appreciation of an annual gift, members receive premium benefits including reserved seating, access to the Woodforest Bank Club, Gold Lot parking for arts events, invitations to exclusive events, Pavilion swag and more. Learn more at www.woodlandscenter.org/stage-lighters

For more information about The Pavilion and our non-profit mission, please visit www.woodlandscenter.org.

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