Don Omar brings reggaeton's golden era to Houston

If you have spent any time around reggaeton over the last two decades, you know the name Don Omar. The Puerto Rican artist, born in Villa Palmeras in 1978, is bringing his 'The Last King World Tour' to the Toyota Center in downtown Houston this Friday, October 23. The show runs from 8:00 PM to 11:00 PM, with doors opening at 7:00 PM, so there is a full hour to get settled before things kick off.

For anyone who needs a refresher on why this matters, Don Omar is one of the defining voices of reggaeton and Latin urban music. His catalog is built on tracks that have become staples of the genre: 'Danza Kuduro', 'Dale Don Dale', 'Salio El Sol' and 'Bandoleros' are the obvious ones, and they are the kind of songs that tend to anchor a setlist like this. Over more than twenty years, he has put out seven studio albums, four live albums, three reissues, five compilations, 36 singles, four video albums and 27 music videos. The studio run includes 'The Last Don' in 2003, 'King of Kings' in 2006, 'iDon' in 2009, 'Meet the Orphans' in 2010, 'Don Omar Presents MTO²: New Generation' in 2012, 'The Last Don II' in 2015, 'The Last Album' in 2019 and 'Forever King' in 2023.

What makes this tour a bit surprising is that it comes after a retirement he announced back in 2017. He did not stay away for long, though, returning with 'The Last Album' in 2019 and 'Sociedad Secreta' in 2020, and he has stayed active in 2026 with the single 'Ella Se Contradice' alongside Baby Rasta & Gringo and Kendo Kaponi, as well as contributions to 'World Cup Hits 2026' and 'World Cup Afterparty [2026]'.

A few logistical notes before you head downtown. The Toyota Center is at 1510 Polk Street, and it uses AXS Mobile ID for tickets, so have your phone ready. The box office is closed for renovations, so any ticket issues need to be handled at the Bell Street Atrium or the Polk Street Lobby once doors open. There is a strict no-re-entry policy, and bags cannot be larger than 10 by 6 by 2 inches, though baby and medical bags are fine. If yours is too big, you can store it in a Binbox locker on the third level of the Tundra Garage for at least $15 per bag, cash not accepted. Professional cameras are out unless you have press credentials, and video cameras and audio recorders need advance authorization.

Since the show lets out late, it is worth knowing what is nearby for a drink or a bite. Sire Spirits Social Club is right there at 1510 Polk Street, and a few blocks over on Lamar you have the Lobby Bar at the Hilton Americas, Pappasito's, 1600 Bar + Grille and The Grove. Hearsay on the Green and The Dirt Bar are also within walking distance if you want to keep the night going. If you are planning to arrive early and want to browse first, Phoenicia Specialty Foods, Posh Liquors and Grove Market & Provisions are all in the immediate area. With the doors opening at 7:00 PM and the music going until 11:00, there is plenty of room to build a full evening around it.