Being healthy isn't all about restriction. You can indulge occasionally and still reap the benefits of a healthy lifestyle. The Health Museum in Houston offers all kinds of insight into healthy living through permanent exhibits that explore everything from the human anatomy to the power of the scientific laboratory. It also hosts regular wellness-centric events like Cheers to Your Health: The Technology of Wines, Tonics, and Potions on Friday, October 27th.

Cheers to Your Health is all about the indulgent side of healthy living, the part that allows you to splurge and enjoy your everyday. When you come to this special event, which runs from 6 to 9 p.m., you'll get to learn all about the science behind making wines, spirits, and cocktails as you actually sip on samples of them.

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The First Annual Dog Costume Contest was such a hit last year that even its organizers were surprised. They'd planned for 15 or 20 dogs to show up in costume and were stunned when nearly 100 arrived instead. So this year, they're prepared for a huge turnout at the Second Annual Dog Costume Contest on Sunday, October 22nd.

Axelrad is hosting the event starting at 2 p.m. when a parade of costumed pooches will head across the stage. If you want your dog to be among them, email the event coordinator in advance to enter him in the contest. The best-dressed dogs will earn prizes while owners enjoy beer from Saint Arnold Brewing Company and Brash Brewing Company. The Harris County Animal Shelter and Reggie's Friends will also be on-hand if you're thinking about adding to your growing fur family.

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The 7th Annual Houston Halloween Festival is an all-ages event that celebrates the fun and spooky aspects of Halloween. It's slated for October 21st from 5 to 10 p.m., and it has a slew of things to do. Youngsters can pick a pumpkin from the patch, watch magicians and jugglers perform, play carnival games, or create some Halloween-themed crafts, among many other activities.

There's also plenty of entertainment for adults. Enjoy a brew or two in the beer garden, and then listen to live music at the Bud Light stage. Check out the vendors from around Houston and grab some grub from a food truck. Tickets are $10 for adults (kids under 11 are free), and the proceeds go to a scholarship fund for local students.

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