Community Calendar

The Texas Mental Health Creative Arts Contest 2026 invites Texans of all ages to reflect on their mental health and share what it means to them through creative expression.

Hosted by the Texas Institute for Excellence in Mental Health, this statewide contest is open to all Texas residents—from elementary students to adults. Participants are invited to respond to the theme “What Does Mental Health Mean to You?” through traditional art, digital art, photography, or writing.

Mental health is shaped by personal experiences, culture, and community. By encouraging creative reflection, the contest creates space for people to tell their stories, explore emotional well-being, and contribute to broader conversations about mental health across Texas. Submissions may address topics such as stress, healing, resilience, relationships, or everyday moments that influence mental well-being.

Selected works may be featured in virtual and in-person galleries, offering opportunities for learning, connection, and public dialogue.

Eligibility: Open to all Texas residents, youth and adults
Submission period: January 15 – March 31, 2026
Learn more: https://www.tiemh.org/artscontest/

The Governor's Community Achievement Awards (GCAA) recognize Texas communities that are turning ideas into measurable impact through environmental stewardship, beautification, and collaboration. From small towns to larger cities, past winners have used this program to strengthen partnerships, elevate local projects, and tell a compelling story about their community's work.

Applications are now open and close on March 12. Visit the GCAA webpage to explore past winners, see what makes a strong application, and learn how your community can get involved.

Keep Texas Beautiful is a Texan by Nature conservation partner.

Experience the extraordinary vocal artistry of Kitka, the renowned women’s ensemble celebrated for its vivid interpretations of Eastern European and Eurasian songs. Drawing on centuries-old traditions, Kitka blends intricate harmonies, resonant timbres, and bold contemporary expression. Their performance highlights the cultural depth and storytelling power of these vocal traditions, offering an immersive journey through music that connects communities across borders and generations.

Raise a glass to the close of UNITYFest 2026 at an elegant reception in downtown San Antonio. Hosted at the historic Gunter Hotel, the evening reflects the building’s German roots, shaped in 1886 when German hoteliers Ludwig Mahncke and Lesher A. Trexler took over the property. That heritage comes alive through festive German-style music by the Alex Meixner Band, creating a refined yet welcoming celebration to toast the festival’s joyful finale.

The Texas Mental Health Creative Arts Contest 2026 invites Texans of all ages to reflect on their mental health and share what it means to them through creative expression.

Hosted by the Texas Institute for Excellence in Mental Health, this statewide contest is open to all Texas residents—from elementary students to adults. Participants are invited to respond to the theme “What Does Mental Health Mean to You?” through traditional art, digital art, photography, or writing.

Mental health is shaped by personal experiences, culture, and community. By encouraging creative reflection, the contest creates space for people to tell their stories, explore emotional well-being, and contribute to broader conversations about mental health across Texas. Submissions may address topics such as stress, healing, resilience, relationships, or everyday moments that influence mental well-being.

Selected works may be featured in virtual and in-person galleries, offering opportunities for learning, connection, and public dialogue.

Eligibility: Open to all Texas residents, youth and adults
Submission period: January 15 – March 31, 2026
Learn more: https://www.tiemh.org/artscontest/

The Governor's Community Achievement Awards (GCAA) recognize Texas communities that are turning ideas into measurable impact through environmental stewardship, beautification, and collaboration. From small towns to larger cities, past winners have used this program to strengthen partnerships, elevate local projects, and tell a compelling story about their community's work.

Applications are now open and close on March 12. Visit the GCAA webpage to explore past winners, see what makes a strong application, and learn how your community can get involved.

Keep Texas Beautiful is a Texan by Nature conservation partner.

Gardening Essentials: Invasive Species Workshop taught by Ashley Morgan-Olvera, Texas Invasive Species Institute Director of Research & Education with office now at Sam Houston State University

Monday, February 16, 2026
12 noon to 3:00 p.m.
San Antonio Garden Center
3310 N New Braunfels Avenue
San Antonio, Texas

Gardening Essentials: Invasive Species Workshop taught by Ashley Morgan-Olvera, Texas Invasive Species Institute Director of Research & Education with office now at Sam Houston State University

Session 1: Defining Invasives & Identification

Section 2: Management/Removal & Reporting of dangerous Invasive species

Invasive species are defined in Texas as exotic plants that have been proven through scientific research to cause financially catastrophic detriment. Some alter ecosystems; clog waterways because of their high need for water; chemically alter agricultural fields; or poison wildlife, pets and even human children. Learn what you can do to protect your landscape and community.

Whether a beginner, intermediate or an advanced crocheter, come and join us for some crafting fun. Bring a project you are working on and have a fun time with fellow crocheters to share tips and learn new skills or assist others with their projects. This program is intended for adults.

The Texas Mental Health Creative Arts Contest 2026 invites Texans of all ages to reflect on their mental health and share what it means to them through creative expression.

Hosted by the Texas Institute for Excellence in Mental Health, this statewide contest is open to all Texas residents—from elementary students to adults. Participants are invited to respond to the theme “What Does Mental Health Mean to You?” through traditional art, digital art, photography, or writing.

Mental health is shaped by personal experiences, culture, and community. By encouraging creative reflection, the contest creates space for people to tell their stories, explore emotional well-being, and contribute to broader conversations about mental health across Texas. Submissions may address topics such as stress, healing, resilience, relationships, or everyday moments that influence mental well-being.

Selected works may be featured in virtual and in-person galleries, offering opportunities for learning, connection, and public dialogue.

Eligibility: Open to all Texas residents, youth and adults
Submission period: January 15 – March 31, 2026
Learn more: https://www.tiemh.org/artscontest/

The Governor's Community Achievement Awards (GCAA) recognize Texas communities that are turning ideas into measurable impact through environmental stewardship, beautification, and collaboration. From small towns to larger cities, past winners have used this program to strengthen partnerships, elevate local projects, and tell a compelling story about their community's work.

Applications are now open and close on March 12. Visit the GCAA webpage to explore past winners, see what makes a strong application, and learn how your community can get involved.

Keep Texas Beautiful is a Texan by Nature conservation partner.