Community Calendar

Alebrijes y Carnaval is a visual arts exhibition that imagines a cultural encounter between Mexican and Panamanian ancestral traditions. The works ask a central question: If our ancestral cultures arrived together at Carnaval today, what message would they leave behind?

Through vibrant mixed-media paintings, Mesoamerican deities are portrayed as powerful queens, while alebrijes take the form of endangered Panamanian species—reimagined as modern guardians of land, memory, and spirit. Folklore, mythology, and environmental awareness come together to honor ancestral wisdom while reflecting on protection, resilience, and cultural continuity.

On display through Saturday - April 4, 2026.

Opening reception activities:

• 3:15 pm - Artist welcome & brief cultural context

• 3:30 pm - Congo & Cumbia dance performance

Bihl Haus Arts hosts an opening reception for “Fourth Nature: An Urban Garden,” featuring new works by Norma Jean Moore from 6-9 p.m. Saturday, February 7 at the Bihl Haus Gallery, 2803 Fredericksburg Road. The exhibition continues through February 28.

“Fourth Nature” delves into the intricate ecological relationships between native plants and wildlife within the vibrant setting of an urban garden. Drawing from her extensive experience as a steward of the Woodlawn Lake Centennial Garden and her active roles in the Alamo Area Master Naturalist program and the Native Plant Society, Moore brings scientific understanding and artist vision to her work.

For five years, Moore’s paintings have highlighted native plantings, but this new series extends beyond flora to include the interdependent fauna, creating a rich visual narrative of urban ecology. “Fourth Nature” offers viewers not just paintings but a multisensory experience shaped by collaboration; poets from Stone in the Stream contribute evocative verses that explore the broad concept of community – embracing both human and non-human forms of life.

The exhibition is an invitation to experience the urban garden from multiple perspectives, inspiring a deeper appreciation for the delicate balance of our shared environment. Whether you are a lover of art, poetry, nature, or community engagement, “Fourth Nature” promises to be an enriching event.

Special Events: In conjunction with the exhibition, there will be a poet sound performance at 2 p.m. Saturday, February 21 and a panel discussion at 2 p.m. Saturday, February 28.

About Bihl Haus Arts
Founded in 2005, Bihl Haus Arts is a community-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit that improves the health and quality of life for active older adults and veterans through art education and further creates community through the arts with exhibitions, performances, literary events, artist talks, and the annual On and Off Fredericksburg Road Studio Tour. For more information, visit www.bihlhausarts.org or call (210) 339-8982.

Green Spaces Alliance will be hosting a Night Skies Workshop at Bulverde Oaks Nature Preserve, located within the CBSL project area. During this program, we’ll explore why protecting the night sky matters and how light pollution affects the JBSA training mission. Participants will learn how everyday lighting choices impact wildlife, energy use, and even home security—and how night-sky-friendly lighting can make a positive difference.

We’ll then turn our attention to the stars with telescopes provided by the Hill Country Alliance. And of course, we’ll gather around a small campfire to enjoy warm drinks and s’mores while taking in the night sky.

Free! Please RSVP with the link provided

Experience the power of young voices as the Children’s Chorus of San Antonio fills the historic San Fernando Cathedral with soaring music. This free concert features three CCSA ensembles—Concert, Chamber, and Encore—bringing inspiration and beauty to the heart of downtown. Welcoming both residents and tourists, the performance celebrates San Antonio’s cultural richness in one of the city’s most iconic spaces.

Seating is limited so please reserve your tickets to this free event today!

OLLU is excited to host the renowned Campanas de America for a special Valentine’s Day Concert on Saturday, February 7 in Thiry Auditorium.

Guests will enjoy an evening of exceptional mariachi music from one of San Antonio’s most celebrated ensembles. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and the concert begins at 7:00 p.m.

Join us for a musical celebration perfect for Valentine’s Day, community connection, and an unforgettable night on the OLLU campus. For assistance, contact geriosa@ollusa.edu.

Tickets to be sold online only. If you are needing assistance with purchasing tickets online, contact Grace Rios, Director of Campus and Community Engagement email: gerios@ollusa.edu or (210)528-6701. Please note that business hours are 8am to 5pm Monday-Friday. Calls and emails outside of business hours will be responded to the next business day.

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.

Discover how the art of scrapbooking can help preserve history! In this program, visitors will learn how scrapbooks serve as valuable resources for historians, offering a glimpse into everyday life and personal stories. We’ll also share practical tips on how to create your own scrapbook in ways that protect photos and keepsakes for future generations. Bring your love of memories and creativity and leave with the knowledge of how to preserve them safely.

This event is free with regular admission. ($1-$5) Advance registration is NOT required.

Limited free parking is available directly across from museum entrance and alongside the museum on W. Nueva Street. There are also a number of paid parking lots and garages within walking distance. Please visit our website for more information.

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.