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 are completely free—no tickets required!

Two ballerinas in teal dresses perform elaborate jumps on the main stage of The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion. A full orchestra plays behind them. The ceiling and walls are lit with blue and purple lights.

Photos courtesy of The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion

THE BEAUTY OF THE ARTS

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

"Ohana means family, and family means nobody gets left behind or forgotten" is the central theme of Lilo & Stitch, and in the spirit of togetherness, the 2026 PA season kicks off with a screening of the film paired with a lively Polynesian Dance by My Hula Hut. This Friday, June 5 performance will bring a colorful celebration of island culture and cinematic fun for the whole family.

 

TIMELESS ROCK & CLASSIC ROMANCE

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 evening. 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!

 

A full orchestra plays on The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion main stage. The viewer is sitting in the center of the crowd, directly facing the stage. The area is set with light fog and purple spotlights.

A conductor in a white blazer with red and blue trim instructs his orchestra at The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion. The walls are lit with blue lights, and American flags are propped up around the stage.

STAR-SPANGLED SALUTE

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

 

SPORTS & MUSICALS

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!"

 

LEGENDARY TRIBUTES

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

 

AUTUMN SYMPHONIES

The fall season begins Wednesday, September 9 with When Instruments Roamed the Earth, a fun and educational concert presented by the Houston Symphony. On Tuesday, September 29, The Woodlands Symphony presents Dead Symphony—Music of the Grateful Dead. This haunting performance is a fusion of symphonic sound and classic rock, making for a long and strange (yet delightful) trip!

 

Little girl dressed up as Wonder Woman standing near a pumpkin during Hocus Pocus Pops at The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion in The Woodlands, Texas

HALLOWEEN HAUNTS & HOLIDAY CHEER

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. Then the 2026 PA season concludes on a joyful note with the Holly Jolly Jingle on Thursday, December 3, featuring holiday favorites performed by Conroe ISD student musicians. It's the perfect way to ring in the season!

 

MINI MAESTROS

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 during any performing arts event at the North Plaza booth or online..

 

STAGE LIGHTERS

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.

 

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Check out The Pavilion's 2026 Schedule of Events for a list of contemporary artists and ticketed events coming this season. For more information about the venue and their mission, please visit The Pavilion's website.