Houston's Top 5 Moments of July 2019

1. 50th Anniversary of Apollo 11's Moon Landing

It is hard to believe that it has already been 50 years since we defied all odds and landed the first men on the Moon on July 20th, 1969. Fast forward 50 years, and Houston still remains a scientific, medical, and exploration hub that is leading the way for NASA's return to the Moon in the next decade. 

Given that Houston is home to the Johnson Space Center and played a critical role in the "race to space," this surely had to top our list. The Space City enjoyed a month-long celebration including Mayor Sylvester Turner making an appearance in New York City to ring the bell at the New York Stock Exchange, not only representing all of Houstonians but also signifying the importance of Houston's relationship with space exploration and NASA. Thank you Mayor Turner!

Among the notable events in Houston that commemorated this historic feat included the Discover Green's "A Giant Leap: 50th Anniversary of the Moon Landing", the "Out of this World Lunar Exhibition" at the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Houston Astros' presentation of "Apollo Night" at Minute Maid Park, the "Moon Walk Experience" at Buffalo Bayou Park, and the Museum of Fine Arts' "Media Space City Party". Neil Armstrong's son Rick Armstrong threw out the first pitch on "Apollo 11" night at Minute Maid Park.  Also, Houston's very own astronaut celebrity Space Casey made appearances throughout the city's landmarks and even greeted tourists at IAH Airport who were coming to celebrate this special moment in Houston. 

2. Citgo's Freedom over Texas

This July 4th celebration was simply spectacular and breath-taking with many Space City-themed activities for children and families of all ages at Eleanor Tinsley Park. With live music from Kellie Pickler and Jake Owen, Mayor Turner greeting attendees and taking pictures with children, as well family-friendly events including a robotics exhibition and NASA mission exhibition, children and newcomers to our city really had the opportunity to learn a lot about Houston's role with respect to the first landing on the Moon back in 1969. 

The fireworks show presented by Citgo was masterful and a great display for all Houstonians. With beautiful colors filling up the skyline, it made for a perfect night out with loved-ones and family. This also made us appreciative of what this city does for its citizens. Without doubt, this was the headlining Independence Day celebration in Texas and arguably the entire country.  --

3. Russell Westbrook Traded to Houston Rockets

It is official Houston, the 8-time NBA All-star and 2017 NBA MVP, Russell Westbrook was officially introduced as a Houston Rocket in late July completing an amazing blockbuster trade between the Rockets and Oklahoma City Thunder in which the Rockets gave up Chris Paul and two first-round picks for 2024 and 2026.

Tenacious, warrior-like, and emotional, Westbrook plays with his heart on his sleeve and will surely be a fan-favorite at the Toyota Center for many years to come. Westbrook has broken numerous NBA records and has averaged a triple-double for the last 3 years in a row completely dominating the NBA with his quickness, athleticism, intelligence, and effort. 

This is a player who has Championship-material and effort manifested in everything he does, and the 8-time All-Star is coming to Houston with big expectations for himself and Houston fans.

A special thanks to the Houston Rockets' brilliant General Manager Daryl Morey and dedicated owner Tilman Fertitta for making this trade happen. Houston couldn't be more excited for the upcoming season and to see the Rockets eventually bring another championship trophy to Downtown Houston. 

4.  713 day was a Blast in Houston

On July 13th, Houston celebrated its local history and pride with "713 Day". With help from our friends at Saint Arnold Brewing Company, 713 Day included a city-wide pub crawl through Houston's finest bars including some of our main partners El Big Bad and Batanga Houston. 

With live music at the Historic Market Square Park, a wide range of drinks/food for families, a 713 cypher among Houston's local rappers, and an after-party at the Axelrad, this was a day-long celebration of Houston's most famous area code and our city's distinct culture and history. We cannot wait for next year's 713 Day and hopefully the weather will cooperate next year for everyone's sake.

5. U.S. Women's Soccer Teams Wins World Cup

What is more patriotic that the World Cup and lifting the trophy in front of all the world's eyes! Our U.S. Women's National Team made Houston very proud by beating The Netherlands in the World Cup Final hosted in Lyon, France. With former Houston Dash player Carli Lloyd representing Houston and month-long parties at Houston's top sports bars including Lucky's Pub and Pitch 25, nothing made us more proud than seeing our U.S. Women defend their World Cup title once again.

Bravo Ladies!