APRIL - JUNE 2026
Celina Cajun Fest is Back, Y'all!
Time to pinch some crawfish tails and stomp your boots.
Joe
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Charlie Rose, Director of Strategic Communications (Gray Reed Advisory)
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Spring has arrived in Celina, bringing with it one of the most exciting and vibrant seasons of the year for our community. As the days grow longer and the weather warms, our City begins to come alive with activity, gathering neighbors, families, and friends in ways that remind us why Celina is such a special place to call home. Spring offers the perfect opportunity to get outside, connect with one another, and take part in the many events that help define the spirit of our city.
This season’s calendar is filled with traditions and celebrations that bring our community together. Celina Cajun Fest returns with its lively music, incredible food, and festive atmosphere that draws visitors and residents alike to enjoy a taste of Louisiana right here in Celina. The return of the Celina Friday Night Markets means our Downtown Square will once again be filled with local vendors, live entertainment, and the kind of energy that turns an ordinary evening into a memorable community gathering.
Families can also look forward to Movie Nights at the Park, where lawn chairs, blankets, and a favorite film create the perfect setting for a relaxing evening under the Texas sky. Touch-a-Truck offers children a chance to explore the vehicles that help build, protect, and serve our City, while Splash & Blast promises a fun-filled Independence Day celebration featuring water activities, live entertainment, and a spectacular fireworks display.
These events represent far more than entertainment. They create opportunities for neighbors to meet, friendships to grow, and families to create lasting memories. They are moments when our community comes together and the true spirit of Celina shines.
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This year also marks an extraordinary milestone as Celina celebrates its 150th anniversary. Reaching this point in our history provides a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the people, traditions, and decisions that helped shape our City into what it is today. The lessons of the past guide the choices we make for the future, reminding us that you never truly know where you’re going until you understand where you’ve been.
As we continue to grow, we must also remain mindful of the resources that sustain our community. Water conservation is one of the most important ways we can work together to protect our future. By each doing our small part, we can help ensure that this vital resource remains secure for generations to come.
Finally, I want to congratulate the graduating class of Celina High School. Your hard work and dedication have brought you to an important milestone, and our entire community is proud of you. We look forward to seeing the positive impact you will make in the world.
Spring in Celina is a season of celebration, reflection, and promise. I hope to see many of you at our events as we continue building a strong and connected community together.
In each issue of Life Connected. Magazine, we ask our Mayor and City Council to share their perspective on a question that defines our community. In this edition, we’re focusing on the center of it all: “What does the Downtown Square mean to you?” From its roots as a historic gathering place to its current role as our community’s "living room," our elected officials share the personal memories and modern-day connections that make the Square the true heart of Celina.
RYAN TUBBS, MAYOR | rtubbs@celina-tx.gov
For me, the Downtown Square is more than the heart of Celina - it’s where families come together, generations create memories, and our City’s story is written. My own family has walked these sidewalks for years - cheering at the Homecoming Parade, joining community events, and celebrating milestones - but it’s not just my family. Every family that visits leaves a piece of their story here, adding to the rich history of this iconic place. The Square is the most recognizable and historic spot in our City. It’s where community thrives, pride is felt, and moments - both big and small - become unforgettable. For every resident and visitor, the Downtown Square is more than a place. It’s the heartbeat of Celina.
PHILIP FERGUSON, PLACE 1 | pferguson@celina-tx.gov
When my family moved to Celina in 2014, the Downtown Square was one of the first places that truly made the town feel like home. Like many families, we were drawn to the energy and sense of community that naturally gathers there. It wasn’t long before we found ourselves volunteering at events and helping bring a few fun ideas to life - like themed Movie Nights on the Square. Seeing kids dressed as their favorite characters, families gathered with blankets and lawn chairs, and neighbors enjoying an evening together created moments that felt truly special.
Over the years, the Square has become the backdrop for many of Celina’s most cherished traditions, from Friday Night Market to Christmas on the Square. For my family, it holds countless memories as our kids grew up running around during these events and building friendships along the way.
To me, the Downtown Square represents the heartbeat of Celina - a place where connections are made, traditions are celebrated, and community truly comes to life. As our City continues to grow, it remains a place worth protecting for generations to come.
EDDIE CAWLFIELD, PLACE 2, MAYOR PRO TEM | ecawlfield@celina-tx.gov
For me, the Downtown Square is deeply personal. Every time I walk into my office downtown, I’m reminded of the history, the laughter, and the countless memories this place has witnessed. My family has shared so many moments here with my children - simple, everyday experiences that have become lasting memories. Those experiences are etched in my mind, intertwined with the rhythms of life on the Square, and every time I pass the sidewalks and storefronts, I can’t help but smile at the moments we’ve shared.
But it’s not just my story. Every resident and every family carries their own memories here - each laugh, each tradition adding to the living history of the Square. It’s a place where personal stories meet the shared heartbeat of our community. For me, and for so many in Celina, the Downtown Square is more than a location - it’s a treasure, a memory-maker, and the heart of our City.
ANDY HOPKINS, PLACE 3 | ahopkins@celina-tx.gov
The Downtown Square is truly the heart of Celina. It’s where our community gathers to celebrate, connect, and create lasting memories together. Debbie and I chose to live where we do because of the charm, character, and strong sense of community that radiates from the Square. Even as Celina continues to grow and evolve, the Downtown Square will always remain our common ground - a place that reflects our shared history, our community spirit, and the jewel that makes Celina so special.
WENDIE WIGGINTON, PLACE 4 | wwigginton@celina-tx.gov
The Downtown Square has always been one of my favorite places in Celina - it’s home. It’s where I’ve volunteered at events, stood shoulder to shoulder with neighbors, and helped create memories that will last a lifetime. Every corner of the Square carries a sense of history, a feeling of the generations who have lived, laughed, and celebrated here before us.
At the same time, the Square continues to thrive, welcoming new energy and experiences that make it as special today as it has ever been. For me, and for my neighbors, it’s more than a place - it’s a living part of our community, a space where memories are made, connections are deepened, and the heart of Celina beats strongest.
MINDY KOEHNE, PLACE 5 | mkoehne@celina-tx.gov
Celina’s Downtown Square is the stage for the “Hallmark” moments that define our community. From the long-standing tradition of the Homecoming Parade to newer favorites like Christmas on the Square and Friday Night Market, it remains the place where residents come together as one. More than a destination, the Square is where traditions - both old and new - bring our community to life.
BRANDON GRUMBLES, PLACE 6, DEPUTY MAYOR PRO TEM | bgrumbles@celina-tx.gov
As a fifth-generation resident, Celina’s Downtown Square is more than a place - it’s part of who I am. Long before the growth, it was already woven into my family’s story, grounding generations in a shared sense of belonging. The Square represents continuity and pride - where traditions are lived, connections are made, and community becomes legacy. I’ve watched it evolve over time, bringing new energy while still holding the memories of what it once was.
For me, it’s more than charming - it’s personal. It’s where my first job began, where I work today, and where my past and present come together. It’s not just Downtown. It’s home - the heartbeat of Celina.
As Celina continues to grow, protecting our natural resources remains a top priority. One of the most important resources we share as a community is water. While the Earth is covered by approximately 70 percent water, access to clean, usable freshwater is far more limited. Communities across the country are facing increasing challenges related to water supply, drought conditions, and environmental sustainability.
For Celina residents, outdoor water conservation plays a key role in ensuring a reliable and sustainable water supply for the future. Lawns, landscaping, and outdoor activities can account for a significant portion of household water use, especially during the warmer months. By adopting efficient watering practices and making small adjustments to daily routines, residents can help reduce water waste while maintaining healthy, vibrant landscapes.
Working together as a community to conserve water not only protects our environment but also helps ensure that future generations continue to enjoy a dependable water supply.
Water conservation is most effective when everyone plays a part. Individual actions may seem small, but when combined across thousands of households, they create a meaningful impact on our City’s water resources.
By reducing waste, improving irrigation practices, and making thoughtful landscaping choices, residents can help
preserve Celina’s water supply while also lowering utility costs and minimizing environmental impact. These shared efforts strengthen the long-term sustainability of our community and protect one of our most valuable natural resources.
Reducing outdoor water use does not mean sacrificing a beautiful yard. With the right techniques, residents can maintain attractive landscapes while using water more efficiently.
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Avoid watering on windy days when water can quickly drift away.
Use drip irrigation systems for trees and shrubs and lowangle sprinklers for lawns.
• Water lawns early in the morning or in the evening to reduce evaporation, especially during hot summer months.
Cover pools and spas when not in use to significantly reduce water loss.
Plant Water-Efficient Vegetation
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• Choose drought-tolerant and native plants that thrive in Celina’s climate.
Native plants require less water and maintenance once established.
Many municipalities and water providers offer resources that highlight water-efficient landscaping options.
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• Install a rain barrel or cistern to collect water from roof gutters.
Harvested rainwater can be used to irrigate plants and gardens, reducing reliance on the municipal water supply.
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• Keep grass about three inches tall during the summer months to help retain soil moisture.
Avoid removing more than one-third of the grass blade at a time when mowing.
Leave lawn clippings on the grass to return nutrients and moisture to the soil naturally.
Outdoor irrigation systems are convenient, but they can also be a major source of water waste if not properly maintained. Experts estimate that up to 50 percent of water used for outdoor irrigation is lost due to inefficient systems, runoff, or evaporation. Even a single broken sprinkler head can waste as much as 10 gallons of water per minute.
The Environmental Protection Agency’s WaterSense program recommends a simple four-step process to ensure irrigation systems operate efficiently:
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Connect: Look for leaks in hoses, valves, and pipe connections. Even a small leak the size of a ballpoint pen tip can waste more than 6,300 gallons of water per month.
Direct: Adjust sprinkler heads to ensure water is directed only toward landscaped areas – not sidewalks, driveways, or streets.
• Inspect: Turn on your sprinkler system and check for clogged, broken, or missing sprinkler heads.
Select: Adjust your irrigation schedule seasonally or use the “Seasonal Adjustment” setting if your controller includes that feature.
Regularly checking your system can prevent unnecessary water loss and improve irrigation efficiency.
The City of Celina is committed to water conservation and efficiency. As part of this effort, we offer a complimentary Irrigation Evaluation Program exclusively for Celina water utility customers. This program helps homeowners optimize their irrigation systems to reduce water waste while maintaining a healthy landscape.
Scan to learn more & sign up
Small changes in daily habits can also make a noticeable difference in outdoor water use. Consider incorporating these practices into your routine:
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Apply approximately one inch of water per week during summer months to maintain most Texas grasses.
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Test your sprinkler system by placing straight-edged cans around your yard to measure how long it takes to fill them with one inch of water.
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Install rain shutoff devices that automatically stop irrigation systems during rainfall.
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Sweep patios, sidewalks, and driveways instead of using a hose for cleaning.
Adjust sprinkler heads regularly to prevent water from spraying paved surfaces.
Use drip irrigation in flower beds and landscape areas to deliver water directly to plant roots.
These simple strategies can significantly reduce water waste while helping landscapes stay healthy and resilient.
Water conservation is not just about saving water today – it is about protecting a vital resource for tomorrow. As Celina continues to grow, thoughtful water use will play an increasingly important role in ensuring that our community remains sustainable, resilient, and environmentally responsible.
By making small changes in how we water lawns, maintain irrigation systems, and design landscapes, residents can contribute to a stronger and more sustainable water future. Together, these efforts help preserve our water supply, support healthy outdoor spaces, and ensure that Celina continues to thrive for generations to come.
As warmer weather arrives and the days grow longer, Celina’s neighborhoods become more active. Children are riding bikes, families are walking their dogs, and neighbors are spending more time outside enjoying parks, sidewalks, and front yards. With more activity in residential areas, it is especially important for drivers to remain alert and travel at safe speeds.
The City of Celina continues to promote responsible driving through the “Slow Down, Celina” campaign, an ongoing initiative under the City’s Neighborhood Traffic Management Policy. The campaign encourages drivers to be more mindful while traveling through neighborhoods, helping address one of the most common concerns residents share, speeding up in residential areas.
To help raise awareness, the City provides complimentary “Slow Down, Celina” yard signs for residents. These signs serve as a visible reminder for motorists to reduce their speed and remain attentive in areas where children and pedestrians may be nearby. Residents can pick up a free sign at Celina City Hall during regular business hours, Monday through Thursday from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
Benefits of participating in the “Slow Down, Celina” Campaign:
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Tips for slowing down in neighborhoods
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Follow Posted Speed Limits: Residential speed limits are designed to keep neighborhoods safe. Watch for Pedestrians and Cyclists: Be especially cautious around sidewalks, driveways, and intersections.
Reduce Distractions: Avoid using mobile devices or anything that takes attention away from the road. Slow Down Early: Begin braking well in advance of turns, crosswalks, or areas with heavy foot traffic.
Drive Courteously: Yield to pedestrians, stop for school buses, and respect other drivers.
• Neighborhood safety is a shared responsibility. By slowing down and staying aware, drivers can help ensure Celina’s streets remain safe for the families and children who enjoy spending time outdoors in our community.
• • Enhances Neighborhood Safety: Encourages drivers to reduce speed in residential areas where children and pedestrians are present.
Raises Awareness: Visible yard signs remind motorists to stay alert and mindful while driving through neighborhoods.
Encourages Community Engagement: Residents play an active role in promoting safer streets. Simple and Effective: Small reminders can influence driver behavior and help prevent accidents. Free and Accessible: Residents can easily pick up a yard sign at City Hall at no cost.
Strong communities are built on active participation from the people who call them home. One of the most important ways residents can stay engaged in the future of Celina is by participating in local elections. On Saturday, May 2, from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, residents will have the opportunity to cast their vote and help shape the direction of our growing city.
Local elections play an important role in determining the leadership and priorities that guide the community. Decisions made at the local level influence many aspects of everyday life, including infrastructure improvements, public safety initiatives, economic development, and longterm community planning. By participating in the election
April 2: Last Day to Register to Vote
April 20: First Day of Early Voting
process, voters help ensure that Celina’s future reflects the values and priorities of the people who live and work here.
As Celina continues to experience growth, maintaining strong civic engagement remains essential. Voting allows residents to have a direct voice in selecting leaders who will represent the community and help guide the City’s continued progress. Taking the time to learn about candidates and issues helps create an informed electorate, which is vital to maintaining a healthy and effective local government.
Residents are encouraged to plan ahead and take note of several important dates leading up to the election.
April 21: Last Day to Accept an Application for a Ballot by Mail
April 28: Last Day of Early Voting
May 2: Election Day
Voter Qualifications & Registration
To be considered a qualified voter in a City election, individuals must meet several key criteria:
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Age: You must be 18 years of age or older on the day of the election.
Citizenship: You must be a United States citizen. Mental Competence: You must not have been determined mentally incompetent by a final judgment of a court.
Criminal History: You must not have been finally convicted of a felony. If you have been convicted, you must have been fully discharged of your sentence, including any term of incarceration, parole, or supervision, or completed a period of probation as ordered by any court; alternatively, you must have been pardoned or otherwise released from the resulting disability to vote.
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Residency: You must be a resident of the city on the day of the election.
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Voter Registration: You must be a registered voter on the day of the election.
To verify your voter registration status, update your information, or download a registration application, please visit the Voter Registration pages for Collin County and Denton County. It is essential to ensure your registration is current prior to Election Day to participate in this important civic process.
The Downtown Center has continued to take shape over the past several months, evolving from early site work and foundational construction into a prominent structure that is now clearly defining the future of the area. What began with excavation, utility coordination, and initial concrete work has advanced into a multi-level facility, with each phase building momentum and bringing the project closer to completion. As of this spring, the project has reached a pivotal stage, where the overall structure is largely in place and efforts are increasingly focused on interior systems and finishing elements.
Swinerton, the City’s general contractor, marked a major milestone with the completion of the building’s concrete deck placements - commonly referred to as “topping out.” This achievement signifies that the primary structural framework has reached its full height. Crews are now finalizing vertical structural components, including columns, while continuing curb installations and topping slab work across all floors. Upon completion of these activities, the structural concrete phase will be substantially complete, allowing the project to transition more fully into the next stages of construction.
Progress is also advancing below grade, where work in the basement level remains active. Installation of critical building
systems, including fire suppression infrastructure, electrical conduit, HVAC ductwork, and perimeter wall framing, is well underway, supporting the building’s long-term functionality.
On the first floor, construction has shifted toward interior layout and system integration. Current efforts include wall layout and top track installation, alongside ongoing electrical conduit work. Trenching operations between the garage and main building are also in progress to establish the permanent power connection, an important step toward operational readiness.
Over the coming months leading into summer, construction will continue to advance across multiple fronts, with a strong emphasis on interior buildout, system installations, and early finish work. With multiple trades actively engaged and progress occurring simultaneously throughout the site, the Downtown Center remains on schedule for completion by the end of the calendar year, weather permitting.
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Here in Celina, we're seeing more and more residents zipping around on e-bikes, motor-assisted scooters, and even pocket bikes for their commutes, recreation, and just getting out and about. It's exciting to see these new ways to get around! To help everyone enjoy them safely and responsibly, we've put together this guide. Let’s review FAQs for e-bikes. For the full article, scan the QR code at the end of this article to make sure our streets and trails are safe and enjoyable for everyone!
Equipped with a motor that assists the rider only when the rider is pedaling; and Has a top assisted speed of 20 mph or less
Class 2 E-Bike/Electric Bicycle
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Equipped with a motor that may be used to propel the bicycle without the pedaling of the rider; and Has a top assisted speed of 20 mph
Important note: This is the only class of E-Bike/Electric Bicycle that can be under power while the operator is not pedaling; however, it has to have pedals.
Class 3 E-Bike/Electric Bicycle
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Equipped with a motor that assist the rider only when the rider is pedaling; and Has a top assisted speed of more than 20 mph but less than 28 mph
A person may not operate a Class 3 Electric Bicycle unless the person is at least 15 years of age
1. How old do you have to be to ride an e-bike?
There are no age limits for riding a Class 1 or Class 2 e-bike in Texas. However, Texas electric bike laws require e-bike riders to be at least 15 years of age to ride a Class 3 e-bike.
2. What are the regulations for riding e-bikes in Celina?
In Celina, e-bike riders must adhere to applicable Transportation Code Laws and Bicycle Laws. This includes riding on the right side of the road, obeying traffic signals and signs, and using hand signals to indicate turns.
3. Can my child ride a motor assisted scooter in the street or sidewalk?
Yes, they can, but there are specific rules to follow:
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Street Use: Allowed on streets with a speed limit of 35 MPH or less, provided there’s no ordinance against it, and they follow relevant road laws.
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Sidewalk Use: Allowed on a path set aside for the exclusive operation of bicycles or on a sidewalk.
Children MUST wear a helmet to operate or ride a motorassisted scooter.
4. What type of electric motor propelled device can be operated on a public roadway?
A standard bicycle
A Electric Personal Assistive Mobility Device on roadways 30 mph or less
A neighborhood electric vehicle
A motor assisted scooter
A golf cart
5. Is a motor-assisted scooter the same thing as a pocket bike/mini-motorbike?
No. A motor-assisted scooter typically has a small electric or gas motor and is designed for riding on streets and sidewalks. It usually has a platform to stand on and handlebars for steering. A pocket bike, on the other hand, is a miniature motorcycle with a small gas engine, designed for recreational use on closed tracks and private property. Pocket bikes are generally not street legal and are not intended for use on public roads or sidewalks.
SCAN FOR MORE INFORMATION ON E-BIKES
Leave Your Mark on Celina’s 150-Year Legacy: Brick Engraving Program
As part of the new Parks Administration building's construction, customized bricks pave the way into tomorrow's history.
and hometown pride, residents are invited to become part of this historic milestone through the 150th Anniversary Commemorative Brick Program.
This special initiative offers community members the opportunity to purchase a personalized engraved brick that will be permanently installed at Ousley Park, in front of the City’s new Parks & Recreation Administration Building. Each brick will serve as a lasting tribute to the families, loved ones, and generations who have helped shape Celina into the vibrant community it is today.
For many residents, Celina is more than a place on the map – it is where family roots run deep, where grandparents built their lives, and where new generations are growing up surrounded by strong traditions and community pride. The commemorative brick installation provides a meaningful way to celebrate those connections.
Whether honoring family members who have called Celina home for decades, remembering a loved one, celebrating children and grandchildren, or marking a family’s place in Celina’s bright future, each engraved brick will become a permanent part of the City’s 150th anniversary celebration.
As Celina reflects on 150 years of community and progress while looking ahead to the future, this commemorative installation offers residents the chance to celebrate their family’s story and leave a legacy that will be seen and cherished for generations to come.
COMMEMORATIVE BRICK DETAILS
4” x 8” Engraved Brick Paver – $38.95
• Permanently installed at Ousley Park
• 150th Commemorative Logo
• Up to 3 lines of text
• 16 characters per line
OPTIONAL MINI-KEEPSAKE BRICK
Mini Replica Brick – $27.95 (with purchase of a brick paver)
• 2” x 4” x ½” miniature brick
• Engraved identically to the brick installed at the park
• A personal keepsake delivered to your home or office
SCAN TO PURCHASE A CUSTOMIZED BRICK
SHARE YOUR STORY!
Help us preserve our rich heritage by sharing your historic photos, family videos, and personal stories to help capture the full legacy of Celina for the next 150 years.
SCAN TO SUBMIT YOUR STORY & CHECK OUT
CELINA'S 150 TH ONLINE!
Get ready for a sizzling good time at the award-winning Celina Cajun Fest, proudly presented by Methodist Celina Medical Center! The Biggest Crawfish Boil in North Texas returns to the heart of Celina’s historic Downtown Square on Saturday, May 9, from 2:00 – 9:00 PM. Prepare to dive into a mountain of Texas-sized crawfish while the hottest Country, Cajun and Zydeco bands fire up the stage with tunes perfect for two-steppin’. Indulge in mouthwatering gumbo, jambalaya, and all the traditional fixin’s, explore a variety of handmade treasures from local vendors, capture those picture perfect moments with our photo-ops sponsored by Rainwater Crossing, and witness alligator snap and roll in two action-packed live shows. The free Kids Zone, brimming with carnival fun, promises something for every member of the family. With a festive atmosphere and excitement at every turn, Celina Cajun Fest is the place to be!
CRAWFISH PLATTERS, CCF LAWN TICKETS &
SPONSORED BY SINACOLA
Feast on crawfish platters, sponsored by Sinacola, featuring 2.5 lbs of flavorful crawfish, complete with corn and potatoes, for just $20 (price increases to $30 on event day while supplies last).
Reserve your spot on the lawn and enjoy Celina Cajun Fest your way! Bring your chairs or blankets, enjoy shaded seating options, and relax with access to private outdoor restrooms and a private bar for only $20 (plus service fees).
1 PRE-ORDER YOUR CCF TICKETS! PRE-ORDER YOUR CCF TICKETS!
CCF VIP EXPERIENCE
SPONSORED BY MAC HAIK
Elevate your day with exclusive front-row standing access, premium seating areas, private bar service, air-conditioned restrooms, a crawfish platter, drink voucher, and exclusive merchandise for only $150 (plus service fees). Tickets are limited and will sell out. Secure your tickets now and experience the flavor, the music, and the energy of Celina Cajun Fest!
Founded nearly 25 years ago in Denton, Texas, Eli Young Band has evolved from college-bar heroes into multi-Platinum pioneers. Their storied history includes massive hits like the five-time Platinum "Crazy Girl" and three-time Platinum "Even If It Breaks Your Heart." Beyond their chart-topping success, the band has built a powerhouse following that boasts over 1.4 million Facebook followers and 2.2 million monthly Spotify listeners. Today, they remain a dominant force in modern country, recently returning to their independent roots with the 2025 release of Strange Hours. This homecoming chapter honors their Texas-rock legacy while maintaining the high-intensity live energy that first defined their career. At Celina Cajun Fest, they’re sure to deliver a performance that will have you singing along and dancing the night away!
Founded nearly 25 years ago in Denton, Texas, Eli Young Band has evolved from college-bar heroes into multi-Platinum pioneers. Their storied history includes massive hits like the five-time Platinum "Crazy Girl" and three-time Platinum "Even If It Breaks Your Heart." Beyond their chart-topping success, the band has built a powerhouse following that boasts over 1.4 million Facebook followers and 2.2 million monthly Spotify listeners. Today, they remain a dominant force in modern country, recently returning to their independent roots with the 2025 release of Strange Hours. This homecoming chapter honors their Texas-rock legacy while maintaining the high-intensity live energy that first defined their career. At Celina Cajun Fest, they’re sure to deliver a performance that will have you singing along and dancing the night away!
Joining Eli Young Band will be Bayou Roux, Honey Island Swamp Band, and William Clark Green. Green’s powerful vocals and compelling performances are sure to add even more energy to the lineup, making this an event you won’t want to miss!
Joining Eli Young Band will be Bayou Roux, Honey Island Swamp Band, and William Clark Green. Green’s powerful vocals and compelling performances are sure to add even more energy to the lineup, making this an event you won’t want to miss!
Celina Cajun Fest is the perfect family outing, and the FREE Kids Zone sponsored by Cook Children's Health Care System ensures fun for the little ones! Young festival-goers can embark on exciting rides like the pirate ship or or supersonic carnival ride. The Gator Hide & Slide inflatable offers a thrilling adventure, and a toddler play land guarantees fun for the smallest attendees. Don’t worry about finding a babysitter—the Kids Zone will keep your family entertained all day long!
We are thrilled to welcome Gator Country back to Celina Cajun Fest! As home to Southeast Texas’ largest alligator adventure park and sanctuary, Gator Country will host two thrilling educational gator shows sponsored by CoServ filled with fascinating facts about American alligators, crocodiles, snakes, turtles, and other reptiles. Get up close to these incredible creatures as Gator Country’s expert team leads interactive experiences, giving you the chance to see these reptiles in action - safely and up close!
We are thrilled to welcome Gator Country back to Celina Cajun Fest! As home to Southeast Texas’ largest alligator adventure park and sanctuary, Gator Country will host two thrilling educational gator shows sponsored by CoServ filled with fascinating facts about American alligators, crocodiles, snakes, turtles, and other reptiles. Get up close to these incredible creatures as Gator Country’s expert team leads interactive experiences, giving you the chance to see these reptiles in action - safely and up close!
Celina Cajun Fest is held at Celina’s iconic Downtown Square, with convenient & complimentary shuttle services available for easy access, sponsored by Jill Gunnell Mathews State Farm. Due to road closures, check our social media channels for up-to-date parking information. Shuttles will run from Celina High School and Moore Middle School, ensuring a smooth experience for everyone attending.
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Fifty years ago, a group of women gathered the stories of a town before they were lost forever. The book they made is still the most important one Celina has ever produced.
There is a book in Celina that does something that no photography, no historical marker, and no secondhand retelling can quite do. It puts you in the room. It sits you down on the porch with the old-timers and lets them talk. You hear their cadence, their pride, their humor, and the catch in their voice when they remember someone gone. The book is called Reminiscences of Celina, and in a city now celebrating one hundred and fifty years of life, it remains the single most important record of who we were before we became who we are.
The book was compiled in 1976 by a committee of women who understood that memory has a shelf life. June Lair chaired the effort. Jane Huddleston co-chaired it. Bennie Cox, Virginia Stone, Margie Jackson, Jane Willard, Sara Waller, Mary Hayes, Geneva Swinney, and Fran Mask all gave their time. Barbara Johnson, an artist who had moved to the Weston community from South Alabama just five years earlier, did all the artwork by hand. Dennis Copeland, whose great-grandparents Richard and Mary Ewing O’Brien were among the first settlers, handled the photographs. He was twenty-two years old and a student at Texas Tech at the time.
Together they produced a book for Celina’s centennial celebration, and in the foreword they wrote something so honest it still feels warm to the touch: “An attempt has been made to gather information of 100 years so a book on our city
and areas around us could be available to the Celina people and former Celina residents. Should any information not be in this book, it was not because efforts were not put forth.”
That effort shows on every page. What they gathered was not just a timeline. It was a living portrait of a place told in the voices of the people who made it.
And fifty years later, in Celina’s sesquicentennial year, the book deserves its own moment in the light.
To read Reminiscences of Celina is to understand how this town came to exist in the first place. The story begins not with a grand founding but with a slow gathering. Soon after the Civil War, settlers from Tennessee and other points east drifted into northwest Collin County and liked what they found. Mrs. Edith Stone, one of the book’s contributors, put it plainly: “There was plenty of water, wild game and wild honey and the climate was mild. The prairie land was easily turned into fertile soil.”
Those early families wrote letters home, and the letters worked. Friends followed. They built log cabins close together for protection, “as there were still Indians lurking nearby,” and the cluster of homes and shops took on the shape of a small town. They named it Celina, in memory of their own birthplace back in Tennessee.
But the real founding story belongs to a man named W. C. Burruss, and the book gives it to us in his own words, reprinted from a 1911 edition of The Weekly Democrat-Gazette out of McKinney. Burruss was farming near the little settlement when a young man picking cotton for him, Will Smith, insisted he open a general store. Burruss hesitated. He didn’t have the money. But he thought of a kinsman, J. T. Mulkey, rode to his house, and put the proposition before him. Mulkey accepted on the spot.
They built a box house sixteen by eighteen feet for about sixty-five dollars, stocked it with twenty-five hundred dollars’ worth of general merchandise, and opened for business around October 27, 1879. Burruss recalled the scene with a grin you can practically hear across the centuries: “Think how that stock would look in such a house with common boards for the top over the counters.”
The next order of business was a post office. They named the
town for their home back in Tennessee. Burruss went to see Governor Throckmorton who was working in McKinney, who asked if he thought a dozen people would get mail there. Throckmorton wrote up a petition, told Burruss to get ten or twelve signers, and said he’d do the rest. In short order, Mulkey became the first postmaster of Celina, Texas.
Burruss, looking back on it all years later, allowed himself a moment of satisfaction: “I am proud, not only of the pleasure, but also of the honor of naming our enterprising little city.” And then, being Burruss, he took a swipe at the town’s complainers. Some citizens worth forty thousand dollars and up, he noted, claimed they had never benefited from the railroad or the town. He called them “soreheads” and “kickers” and pointed out that many of them were “on Sunday occupying the Amen corners in many of the leading churches of the town.”
This is the kind of passage that makes the book irreplaceable. It is not a sanitized account. It is human, opinionated, and alive.
One of the great turning points in the book—and in the life of the town—is the arrival of the Frisco railroad in 1902. The tracks missed Old Celina by about a mile, so the entire town picked up and moved. And when the book says moved, it means it literally. Merchants jacked their buildings up, placed them on rollers, and hitched them to traction engines. Three engines pulled a single building—one in the lead and one on each side. They rolled the buildings across Buck Winn’s wheat field, ruining some of the crops. Some of the structures bogged in the mud and had to wait for dry weather.
B. C. Childress and his partner W. K. Stanford moved their entire general merchandise stock, still inside the old Odd Fellows Hall, toward the new town site. At dark on the first day, they parked near what would become the south part of town. The next day they reached their spot and opened for business. Andy Roller came with a grocery store. The Tidwell’s brought their hardware store and gin. Mrs. Drake brought the post office. Even Dr. R. L. Clayton moved his practice.
The image is almost cinematic: an entire community in motion across the Blackland prairie, buildings creaking on rollers behind steam-powered engines, the wheat field churned up in their wake. A new era beginning with mud on its boots.
Once the buildings arrived, a townsite company laid out streets and lots on what had been William Willock’s pasture. Lots along Main Street were priced higher than the rest, so merchants began setting up north of Main and west of the depot. A row of wooden buildings faced the railroad. Before the close of 1902, the new little town was taking shape. A McKinney newspaper noted in March of that year that Celina already had twenty dwellings, a lumber yard, and bright prospects.
Then came J. Fred Smith. Around 1910, Smith began laying out the Square and getting buildings erected around it. Homes and halls had to be relocated. The S. McCoy house was moved east of the Catholic Church. The old Odd Fellows Hall was shifted east of Nelson’s Hotel. On July 6, 1911, several new brick buildings were ready for use, and there was a general moving day. Gravel went down on the streets. The book puts it with understatement and affection: “Celina really took on the appearance of a wide awake, growing little city.”
But it is the smaller stories in Reminiscences of Celina that stay with you longest. The book is full of them, tucked between the historical summaries and the family genealogies like wildflowers growing through the cracks in a sidewalk.
There is B. F. Burruss, son of W. C., remembering his childhood in Old Celina with a tenderness that needs no embellishment. His mother died when he was young, and “it never seemed like a home anymore.” His job was to ride behind his father on the horse to the general store and then ride the horse back or stay and help. They had his grandfather’s former slaves, Uncle Squire and Aunt Suse, living in the old house and working on the farm as a part of the family. He recalls every neighbor, every farm, every family for a mile in each direction, as if drawing a map from the heart.
Water, he tells us, was the main problem. So everybody “chipped in and had a deep well dug and erected a windmill
and water tank in the center of town, also the center of Main Street, and laid pipes to all the houses.” Just like that. No bond election. No feasibility study. The town needed water, so the town dug a well.
There is the account of John Mallone, eighty-four years old when he shared his memories, who recalled that when he married in 1874 and settled half a mile from what would become the Alla School, “there was not a house nor a fence between him and Pilot Point.” He remembered prairie chickens so thick they covered an acre of ground, killed in large numbers and put up in barrels for winter. He remembered that the western frontier was then at Blocker, near Sanger, and Rangers kept the Natives back to the west.
There is the story of little Dorothy Phelps, who ran across a well top and fell in. She called out, “Mamma get me,” when she came up the first time. The workers who had left the cover off panicked and ran. Neighbors came from every direction, working frantically, but recovered her body too late. It was January 25, 1918. The book does not look away from grief.
And there is Bob Martin, who kept daily records of his life from 1932 until his death. The book shares excerpts, and they read like poetry made from plain living: “January 1, 1934 — Killed hogs.” “March 15, 1935 — we finished cleaning out the barn, planted potatoes — set out peach trees.” “June 12, 1936 — finished plowing cotton.” “November 26, 1936 — The Waddle mare died today.” A whole life in a few lines. Church on Sunday. Ball games. Cow sales. His account captures the rhythm of the land.
Reminiscences of Celina is not a polished history written by an outside academic. It is a book made by the community about itself, and that is precisely its power. Historians and researchers have used it as a foundational source for the past five decades, and for good reason. There is simply no other document that captures this much of early Celina in this much firsthand detail—the people, the places, the pastimes, and the passions of a town finding its footing along the historic Preston Trail.
The book covers Celina before it was Celina. It covers the first settlements along Honey Creek, the naming of the town by
a cotton farmer and his kinsman, the first post office, the first schools, the first churches, the first well. It covers the arrival of the railroad and the wild spectacle of an entire town rolling itself a mile north. It covers the architecting of the Square and the building of downtown. It covers life in the city across the twentieth century—the cotton gins and livery stables, the opera house and the I.O.O.F. Band, the World War I cavalry drills on the public square at night, the influenza epidemic that closed the schools and churches in the dark winter of 1918, and the eighty-foot iron tower that crashed to the ground in a storm one Sunday morning in 1941.
And throughout it all, names. Hundreds and hundreds of names. Burruss. Mulkey. O’Brien. Stone. Gearhart. Tidwell. Mallone. Hubbard. Childress. Stanford. Winn. Glendenning. Kirkpatrick. Choate. Helms. Finley. Willard. Stelzer. Kerr. Cox. Huddleston. Martin. The names are the connective tissue of the book, and for many families in Celina today, they are the connective tissue of their own story.
The foreword closed with a borrowed line: “Please all, and you will please none.” It was a way of saying the committee knew the book wasn’t perfect, that some stories surely slipped through, that memory is imperfect. But what they caught— what they preserved—is extraordinary.
Today, the book is owned by the Celina Heritage Association, and copies are available for purchase at the Celina Heritage Museum. If you have lived here for decades, you will find familiar names on nearly every page. If you arrived last year, you will find the story of the ground beneath your feet—the land that was once a bald prairie, then a wheat field, then a pasture, then a townsite, and now a city of tens of thousands.
In 1976, this book honored a century. In 2026, it turns fifty itself, and it arrives at our sesquicentennial not as a relic but as a living thing—still the most critical link between the Celina of today and the Celina that was. Still the place where the old voices speak. Still the book that, as W. C. Burruss might have said, keeps us pushing and not kicking.
Pick up a copy. Sit with it. Read it the way it was written— slowly, with the kind of attention these stories were given when they were first gathered by the women who loved this town enough to make sure it would never forget itself.
One hundred fifty years asks for more than a toast.
It asks us to walk the town that made us and see how it still does: streets that learned the shape of footsteps, corners that remember names, rooms with the hush before something great begins. This is how Celina keeps time, not by charts or headcounts but by places, the places that anchored earlier generations and keep welcoming the next. They still have something to say, and if you listen long enough, they remind you why this town holds on.
This sesquicentennial celebration is our way of saying thank you to yesterday and yes to tomorrow. Celina keeps opening new doors, but it does so with a hand on the ones that taught us how to gather in the first place. Not every place is named here, and that is the point. The story is bigger than a list of iconic city landmarks; it is a promise that as new chapters arrive, the places that make this historic town tick will keep setting the rhythm.
If you are new to reading a town this way, start at the mile that moved us: the day Celina pulled itself to the railroad and chose progress on purpose. In 1902, the Frisco railway line came close, but not close enough. Merchants and families set buildings on rollers and timbers and inched them a mile through mud to meet it. It was not theater; it was clarity.
Within a decade of that move, J. Fred Smith set the next chapter in brick, laying out a modern Square, paving streets, pulling utilities into place, and inviting the state to see what a small town with a big civic imagination could accomplish. Movement first, then craft. That sequence still reads in the places we pass every day.
Think of the yellow house on West Main, the one that seems to greet the block with its porch before you ever reach the steps. Built in 1912 for Carl and Claudine Yates of Yates Dry Goods, the Yates-Strickland House reads like an essay in everyday dignity: a broad porch, balanced massing, welcome over spectacle. In time it passed to the Strickland family, who kept it for roughly sixty five years and, simply by living well within its lines, taught West Main what a settled streetscape could look like.
When residents gathered on the lawn in April 2025 to unveil its Texas Historic Marker, the plaque did not place the house under glass; it acknowledged what the porch had been saying all along: belong here. Some houses hold a family. This one holds a thread of early confidence, first stitched by the Yates’s and carried forward by the Stricklands, pulled a century ahead and still in use.
Keep walking and the century repeats on S. Colorado, where another 1912 witness, the Finley-McIlroy House, stands with a posture you can spot from the far corner. Built for A. T. Finley and rebuilt after a fire, the home was sold shortly after World War II to James R. “Mac” McIlroy and Virginia McIlroy.
Over the decades that followed, it carried a hometown’s middle chapters in a single façade. Old timers remember Mac as the Chevrolet dealer who knew his customers by name, a steady presence that felt as much a part of the street as the house itself. The house stayed with two families for more than a century, which helped the block keep its character. Recently purchased by Leigh Glendenning Roberts, the home is being remodeled and restored to its original grandeur, an echo of what Celina is doing at city scale: keeping the essentials while we grow.
Turn the corner at Pecan and Colorado and the town’s voice gathers itself. Methodists here first worshiped in April 1870 at a one room Union School House, sharing space with the practical rhythm of frontier life. Over the next half century, the congregation built and rebuilt alongside the town, culminating in a brick sanctuary in 1926 that hosted baptisms, weddings, and homegoings.
In a small Texas town, rooms like that are more than architecture; they are part spiritual refuge, part civic square, part living memory. When the congregation later moved near Old Celina Park, the City stepped in to keep the 1926 building a public anchor, acquiring, restoring, and reopening it in March 2020 as City Council Chambers and municipal offices. Reverence met readiness.
The exterior kept its dignified proportions; the interior gained wiring, cameras, and microphones so meetings could stream into living rooms across town. Where neighbors once knelt, they now take an oath; where choirs once elevated voices, microphones capture debate. The point was never to varnish a church into a trend; it was to let the room keep doing what it does best, gathering people for the City’s business.
A few blocks away, St. Philip Baptist Church carries the living thread forward. Founded in 1909 and long rooted at 402 S. New Mexico Dr, it has welcomed Sunday mornings, midweek studies, wedding days, and seasons of steady service as Celina has grown around it. History should note the link to the City’s civic center.
The same leader who drew the plan for downtown also signed the deed that gave St. Philip its ground; J. Fred Smith’s name is inked on the document that allowed the congregation to plant here, tying the church’s foundation to the heart of the town from the start. The congregation, led for the past nearly four-decades by Pastor Isaish Moore, describes itself as a diverse family focused on the Great Commission, and its motto speaks to both history and direction: standing on the precipice, balanced on the rock, stepping out by faith.
In practice, that posture looks like participation. St. Philip meets with civic leaders, joins community planning conversations, and builds bridges across congregations. Public walks between the Square and the church keep faith visible in the everyday rhythm of the city. The church is also preparing to build a new sanctuary, a simple sign that a long standing congregation can plan for tomorrow without letting go of what it stands on.
In a story told through places, St. Philip stands as both a landmark and a living room. Its doors open, voices rise, and neighbors find their way to one another. That is what the best places in Celina do. They gather people, hold memories, and point the community forward. St. Philip honors the path that brought us here and helps set the pace for where we are going.
Then there is the Square, where the story moves like a chorus. For more than a century it has played whatever part Celina needed: opera house and bandstand, theater row and parade route, wartime scrap iron depot and Saturday drawing stage, and now a backdrop for festivals that draw residents and visitors from across North Texas. Through it all, the Square kept its proportions and its purpose. Locals do not need a marker to know the short version. This is where Celina remembers who it is.
Ask siblings Jane Willard and Bob Cashon and you hear the Square in a hundred remembered details. They recall five grocery stores, two department stores, more than one bank and pharmacy, doctors’ offices, and a post office that moved more than once. They can stand on the north block and point. A bank on the corner, Dyer and Jones Drug next door, Dr. W. H. Stalcup upstairs.
They remember a bank robbery that ended in fire. They place the Ritz Theater just west of where Annie Jack sits today, where Saturday shows were the hottest ticket in town. They remember a croquet court near where the Grace Bridge Community Garden is now, men measuring shots as families visited and kids turned the Square into a playground.
Along the west side of the Square, the inventory becomes a portrait. A three story building once housed the Opera House, where City Hall sits today. It was later a mix of public and private offices. The post office worked on the ground floor before moving down the sidewalk. Upstairs, a sewing room sent garments to Dallas, and the Masonic Lodge met on the third floor before crossing the Square to a new home.
They name the Economy Store, the original Perry and Rucker Grocery, and Mr. Skidmore’s Celina Frozen Food Locker, where families without home freezers rented locker space and came in and out with the week’s provisions. They placed a café where Shirley’s Hair Shop long sat, and the corner filling station that changed hands after the war.
On the south side of the Square, First Baptist Church once anchored the block with its historic sanctuary and an education building. Clint Carey Sr. and Jr. ran a grocery store that later changed signs to an auto parts shop near what is now Movement Church. Johnson and Carter sold farm implements nearby. Cameron Helms was the undertaker who would set out two orange cones to signal a viewing at the funeral home that later became Toasted Walnut.
City offices stood in the old Celina State Bank building, where today’s EDC operates. Council was up front, fire in the rear, and a small jail sat in the corner of the truck bay.
an eye on things for everyone. Along that side was a small Southwestern Bell office where three operators held party lines together, Woodrow Kindle’s grocery, the Hendons’ dry cleaner, and Past that was Clifford McKnight’s grocery, G. V. Bray’s dry goods and furniture, Bob Clutt’s shoe repair, and the Nelson Café on the corner.
Loop down Pecan and the picture completes itself. Another grocer stood where Willow House is now. Paul Norris repaired appliances and televisions. The county’s second drive in fast food spot packed out after games, where Tender sits today. Bobcat Bennie Brewer cut hair, and Dr. Collins had an office. There was another filling station, the Kindle and Johnson lumber yard, Kissner’s Department Store, a café, a hardware store, and a car storage garage for the days when dirt roads meant you drove the good car only in town. The details do not drown the story. They prove it.
They do not forget the Raymond Hamilton story. In the 1930s a contemporary of Bonnie and Clyde came to town, overpowered marshals, locked them and passersby in a railcar, and made the rounds on the Square for guns. No one died. The hostages were freed. The town had a story for the ages and a reason to install a sturdier lock.
On the east side the map fills in. The Nelson Hotel now holds HBA Design + Build upstairs and Valley Vines as a tasting room at street level, a neat echo of how work and welcome have long shared corners here. Nearby sat the second post office, and for a time the American Legion Hall gathered close at hand.
Up Ohio Street, mothers worked the washeteria’s big metal tubs while kids waited in cars. It couldn’t have been safer. Fred Jackson swept sidewalks with a house broom and kept
And it is still that way in the ways that count. The names on the glass may change and the awnings may refresh their paint, but the promise holds. It is the place you cross on your way to something and the place you decide to stay because you ran into someone you hoped to see. Errands turn into conversations. An evening plan becomes a crowd. The Square remains more than a place to shop. It is where you belong, where the City keeps its lines, and where Celina still keeps the rhythm.
Education tells the same truth at a single address: 205 S. Colorado. Early schools on this ground date to the 1900s, including a two story brick school completed in 1906. After a fire in 1915, a three story replacement rose quickly and served Celina students into the 1940s.
In the early 1940s, a streamlined modern schoolhouse went up on the site with the clean geometry and forward motion of its era. It served every grade, housed the auditorium and gym, and became the room where thousands of Bobcats found their footing. In 2009, the building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places as “Celina Public School,” formalizing what families had long known: some buildings are more than architecture.
Today, the same structure houses the Celina ISD Administration, the place where budgets, staffing, and policy
shape the next school year while the echoes of assemblies and pep talks still hang in the hall. Still standing. Still serving. Still the breeding ground for the district’s future, rooted in the same soil that educated earlier generations and now guides the ones to come.
From classrooms to kickoff, the story stays the same. When the lights come on, another chapter hums to life. From 1952 to 2018, varsity football played at the historic Bobcat Field, and the place was always bigger than the game: band cadences, cheer chants, drill team lines, homecoming mums; grandparents in lawn chairs and little Bobcats working to wear Orange and White.
The drumline of that lore runs from the Doe Branch River toward Preston Road and on to the Square. On Friday nights the town closed ranks and met at the stadium.
And what the years of rich history and winning built there did not stay on the scoreboard. It moved with the band across the end zone, with cheer blocks at the rail, with volunteers who fixed what broke and parents who painted lines and stood the late watches. It lives in the memories on that turf, the ones that start as a score and become a story about who showed up for whom at Bobcat Field.
The point is not the trophies. It is what Bobcat Field drew out of Celina: shared standards, shared work, shared unity. The stadium became a metaphor, a place that gathered a town and showed its character.
One beloved artifact, the press box, scuffed and sacred, returns to a place of honor after a temporary relocation. The angles will change, the echoes will remain, and the field will do what it has always done. It will bring Celina together.
Look up, and the skyline repeats the lesson in light. Night after night, the water tower comes alive, its colors marking the moments the city chooses to see. In 2017, City Council restored the Downtown Water Tower and added programmable lighting so it could speak for Celina in public view.
Since then, its purpose has been clear: celebrate the city, honor its history, observe state and national holidays, and recognize significant events, from solemn observances to Bobcat milestones.
The City maintains an official lighting schedule, so residents know why a given color appears on a given night and to keep the focus on moments that matter. For generations the water tower worked quietly as infrastructure; now it serves openly as a symbol. It is often the first landmark you notice coming in and the last you catch pulling away, the one you point out because it says, in a glance, what paragraphs cannot.
And the story turns the page without leaving the yard lines behind. As Celina grows, the field’s story is evolving rather than closing. Much of the complex will live inside Ousley Park, but the park is being shaped to keep faith with the ground that carried so many seasons.
The performance pavilion will sit where cheers once settled, a stage facing the same sky that lit the fourth quarter. The athletics history walk will carry names, years, and seasons across the site so a new generation can read the record on the same earth that made it. Gathering spaces will open along the old approaches so families can meet where gates once swung and bands once formed.
On weeknights it settles commuters; on game days it keeps a steady promise; and for those returning after time away, the glow says what needs no saying: welcome home.
If the water tower speaks in light, the next landmark speaks in steel. Just off the Square, the silos carry the same throughline in steel and concrete. Before storefronts and spreadsheets, Celina’s commerce moved in wagons and railcars, in sacks hoisted and scales balanced, in grain rising and falling through chutes. The elevator took what neighbors brought from the fields and sent it out to feed a wider world, and the mill turned work into bread. Those cylinders were built for utility, but over time they gathered meaning. Their silhouette still says it plainly: we are rooted in work and ready for what is next.
In March 2025, they reopened as The Silos in Celina, a multivenue hospitality campus where a restaurant, an outdoor yard, and a speakeasy style lounge now set tables and stages inside the old curves. Some towns tear down their tools; Celina found them new work. The silos once gathered what the land produced; today they gather what the community
creates.
The same spirit animates the places worth the walk. Old Celina Park is another heartbeat: mornings with strollers and coffee, walkers tracing loops along the sidewalk, quiet fishing lessons; afternoons with cones on the infield and chatter over the grass as siblings orbit between playground and pickup game, where thousands of kids now participate in youth sports; evenings with the pavilion hum of birthday cake and team photos and the one more conversation that turns a Tuesday into a weekend.
Over time, the park grew without losing the ease that made it beloved; new amenities folded into old habits; the playground widened its welcome so every kid could play side by side. On festival weekends the lawns fill and the lights stretch farther, but the feeling stays the same. It is a place built for staying, not just stopping.
On a low rise west of town, Old Celina Cemetery, situated where Celina stood before its move, pulls the present into perspective. Burials reach back to the 1880s, and the rows read like a family tree you can walk – farmers and merchants, teachers and veterans, church cooks and shopkeepers –residents who were born here or came because they saw something worth building, put down roots, and left marks that still show up on street signs, rosters, and Sunday rolls.
Folks still stop by for a stroll because the stones tell the truth about how any city arrives: name by name. If the Square is where Celina remembers who it is, the cemetery is where Celina remembers who we came from. You do not go for spectacle; you go for perspective, and you leave with a steadier step, grateful for some of the iconic pioneers that handed this town forward.
And because a sesquicentennial is as much about tomorrow as yesterday, the map needs a window forward that reads like the places that made it. So, the next turn sounds like this: from a Lowe’s rising near the Ownsby Farms area and a Walmart taking shape on Glendenning’s land, to new anchors – Costco, Academy, and PetSmart – setting down stakes, Celina’s
commercial front is opening doors.
At the same time, our schools are tying memory to map with three new campuses: Alma Jo Scott Elementary, honoring the original “Bobcat Mom” and her 38 years of service to Celina ISD; Ophelia Grumbles Elementary, named for the beloved third grade teacher who began in the late 1930s and returned to the classroom after supporting her husband during World War II; and Janet H. Calvert Elementary, celebrating a lifelong resident who served more than 30 years as teacher, assistant principal, and principal and kept volunteering even in retirement.
Alongside Willard Middle School, they will form the next set of first days. Together, these openings say what this city has always believed: we can grow new aisles and new classrooms while holding firm to the people and places that raised us.
Fast growing cities often hand nostalgia a whistle and call it a referee. Celina chose a better metaphor. The past here is not a fence; it is a framework, load bearing walls that welcome additions. That ethic reaches straight back to the old playbook: make a plan, make it beautiful, make it quickly, and keep making room for people.
The site plans – new schools, new retailers, new public safety stations, new gathering places – signal the next round of investment, but the anchors do not budge: a water tower that refuses to retire; a schoolhouse with nearly a century of service; a stadium reshaped as parkland; a Square that still anchors the town; and homes whose porches keep teaching the art of staying put.
The vocabulary expands; the grammar stays familiar. In a town that once lifted itself onto rollers and moved a mile to meet the future, the best way to celebrate 150 years is to keep moving, together, guided by the places that got us this far and lit by a tower that still knows how to say, “Welcome home.”
Happy 150th Birthday Celina, Texas.
The City of Celina presents the Life Connected. Podcast, an exciting evolution of our storytelling platform that brings the heart of our community directly to residents.
The Life Connected. Podcast offers residents a unique opportunity to go beyond the pages of the Life Connected. Magazine and experience the stories that shape Celina in a more dynamic way. Through engaging video conversations, the podcast brings together community leaders, longtime residents, and local partners to share perspectives on the people, places, and initiatives that continue to define the city.
Each episode aligns with the feature stories highlighted in the Life Connected. Magazine, providing an extended look at the topics that matter most to the community. This multimedia approach allows residents not only to stay informed but also to build a deeper connection to Celina’s history, growth, and future. By pairing storytelling with thoughtful dialogue, the podcast creates an immersive way to learn about the individuals and ideas helping guide the city forward.
Below are highlights from recent episodes that showcase the voices and stories shaping Celina.
As Celina celebrates 150 years of history and community, a recent episode features one of the City’s most respected voices – Pastor Isaiah Moore. For more than four decades, Pastor Moore has served as the pastor of St. Philip’s Church and previously dedicated many years as the Chaplain for the Celina Police Department.
In this episode, Pastor Moore reflects on the spirit of the community and the values that have helped shape Celina over the years. He shares why he believes the culture of Celina is “contagious,” describing how the City’s welcoming atmosphere and strong sense of connection continue to draw attention far beyond its borders.
In Celina, where wide-open prairies once defined the landscape, the Ousley family represents a legacy deeply rooted in the land and community. For six generations, members of the Ousley family have lived on the same property, creating a story that reflects vision, stewardship, and an enduring commitment to Celina.
In this episode, Dr. Jon Sergei Ousley sits down with his sons, Jack and Jace, to share memories of growing up in Celina and what the concept of legacy means to their family. The conversation offers a personal look at how traditions are passed down through generations while also highlighting how families like the Ousleys have helped shape the character and history of the community.
Corbett Howard: From Small-Town Roots to BigCity Vision
Former Celina Mayor Corbett Howard joins the podcast to reflect on his years of public service and the role he played in guiding the city through a period of transformative growth. Howard discusses the challenges the city faced when Celina
had just 1,800 residents, including the need to address infrastructure limitations while planning for a much larger future population. During the conversation, he shares insights into the partnerships that helped move Celina forward, including collaboration with the Upper Trinity Water District, the North Texas Tollway Authority, and other regional and national organizations.
As Celina continues to experience rapid growth, the City remains focused on investing in the infrastructure needed to support a thriving and connected community. A key part of this effort is the ongoing work along the Coit Road corridor, where several projects are underway through the City’s Capital Improvement Program (CIP).
These improvements represent a significant investment in roadway infrastructure designed to enhance safety, improve traffic flow, and strengthen regional connectivity. By modernizing this important corridor, the City is taking proactive steps to reduce congestion, expand transportation capacity, and support the residential and commercial development planned for Celina and the surrounding region.
Together, these projects will help ensure that Coit Road continues to serve as a reliable and efficient route for residents, businesses, and visitors for years to come.
Vest Lane to Choate Parkway
One of the largest projects currently underway will transform Coit Road between Vest Lane and Choate Parkway into a modern arterial roadway designed to accommodate future growth.
The project will reconstruct the existing two-lane asphalt roadway into a four-lane divided primary arterial, while preserving the ultimate right-of-way needed for a future sixlane divided roadway. In addition to widening the road, the project includes several improvements aimed at enhancing safety and mobility.
Upgrades will include right-of-way acquisition, drainage improvements, roundabouts, signage, and new pavement markings, along with the addition of lighting and landscaping to create a safer and more visually appealing corridor. This effort is being completed as a joint project between the City of Celina and Collin County, reflecting strong regional collaboration to meet growing transportation demands.
Estimated Cost: $13,443,434
Estimated Completion: February 2027
Choate Parkway to the Collin County Outer Loop
Continuing north, another project will extend roadway improvements from Choate Parkway to the Collin County Outer Loop, further strengthening the corridor’s role as a key regional connection.
Similar to the southern segment, this project will reconstruct the existing two-lane roadway into a four-lane divided primary arterial, built within the ultimate right-of-way planned for a future six-lane roadway. Improvements will include drainage upgrades, roadway signage, and new pavement markings to enhance safety and operational efficiency.
While lighting and landscaping are not included in this phase, the improvements will significantly expand the corridor’s capacity and prepare the roadway for future development.
Estimated Cost: $4,287,000
Estimated Completion: June 2027
In addition to major reconstruction efforts, the City is also investing in pavement preservation to maintain roadway quality and extend the life of existing infrastructure.
This project includes asphalt resurfacing in three key segments along Coit Road to improve driving conditions and ensure the roadway continues to perform reliably:
• County Road 100: Preston Road to County Road 97
• County Road 90: County Road 92 to County Road 98
• County Road 97: Lynn Stambaugh Parkway to County Road 134
By resurfacing these segments, the City can address wear and tear while preserving the integrity of the roadway system.
Estimated Cost: $3,490,000
Estimated Completion: September 2026
Celina Police Department honors the officers and staff whose life-saving actions and tireless investigations keep our community safe and embody the heart of Celina.
Each year, the Celina Police Department gathers to recognize the dedication, professionalism, and exceptional service demonstrated by the men and women who serve the community.
The 2025 Celina Police Department Awards Banquet provided an opportunity to celebrate officers, detectives, supervisors, professional staff, and civilian personnel whose work made a lasting impact on public safety and the residents of Celina.
The awards presented throughout the evening reflect outstanding achievements across the department – from leadership and investigative excellence to community service, lifesaving actions, and daily commitment to protecting and serving.
Together, the recipients represent the values that guide the Celina Police Department and its mission to keep the community safe.
LONGHORN AWARDS
The Longhorn Awards recognizes measurable accomplishments and exceptional productivity across the department.
Officer Jeremiah Sanders was recognized for Most Felony Arrests, leading the department with seven felony arrests out
of 84 total felony arrests made during the year.
Officer Andrew Dunn received the award for Most Calls for Service, responding to an impressive 668 calls out of the department’s total 28,715 calls for service.
Officer Robert Terkla earned the Most DWI Arrests award with 11 arrests out of 70 total DWI arrests department wide.
Within the Criminal Investigations Division, Detective Frank Alegre was recognized for Most Assigned Cases, handling 184 cases during the year and demonstrating exceptional diligence and workload management. Detective Alegre also led the department in Most Cleared Cases by an Officer/ Detective, successfully clearing 170 cases.
Detective John Christian received recognition for Most Arrest and Search Warrants Written, authoring 51 warrants over the course of the year – an achievement that reflects detailed investigative work and persistence.
MARKSMAN AWARDS
Several officers were also recognized for exceptional firearms proficiency during departmental qualifications.
The Pistol Marksman Award was presented to Officer Travus Lemon, Officer Jed Urban, and Sergeant Jeremy Wilson for
achieving the highest pistol qualification scores.
The Rifle Marksman Award was presented to Detective Cory Barron, Officer Steven Wheeler, and Officer John Thacker for earning the highest rifle qualification scores, demonstrating precision and operational readiness.
The Life-Saving Award honors officers who took decisive action to preserve human life during critical incidents. This year’s recipients – Sergeant Jed Ganatos, Officer Skylar Sillivent, and Officer Jose Perez-Reyes – were recognized for their swift response and commitment to duty during emergency situations where their actions helped save lives.
The Certificate of Merit recognizes personnel who demonstrate exceptional initiative, professionalism, or performance during significant incidents or investigations. Recipients included Detective Jerry Crumley, Officer Cory Dye, Detective Cameron Coduti, Detective Frank Alegre, Corporal Ben Wollet, and Officer John Thacker.
The Civic Achievement Award highlights individuals who strengthen the relationship between the police department and the community it serves. This year’s recipients, Detective Cameron Coduti and Detective Marcus Martinez, were honored for their commitment to community engagement and building trust with residents.
The Servant Leadership Award recognizes individuals who lead through service and support their colleagues while contributing positively to the culture of the department. Recipients included Chandra Nickens, Danyelle Kent, Vanessa Fischer, PSO David Thomas, PSO Eric Solis, and Officer Jed Urban.
The Meritorious Conduct Award was presented to Officer John Perron for exceptional performance that reflects dedication, professionalism, and commitment to duty.
Several additional honors recognized individuals whose contributions stood out during the year.
The Civilian of the Year Award was presented to CSI Stefani Campbell, recognizing a non-sworn member of the department whose work significantly supports the mission of the Celina Police Department.
Officer Robert Terkla was named New Officer of the Year for
demonstrating exceptional initiative, professionalism, and performance early in his law enforcement career.
The Field Training Officer of the Year award went to Cassie Ganatos for excellence in mentoring and preparing new officers for successful careers in law enforcement.
Sergeant Bryce Kennedy was recognized as Supervisor of the Year for outstanding leadership, mentorship, and dedication to the success of his team.
The department’s highest individual honor, Officer of the Year, was awarded to Detective Jerry Crumley in recognition of his exceptional service, professionalism, and impact throughout the year.
As Celina continues to grow, the dedication and professionalism of the men and women of the Celina Police Department remain essential to maintaining a safe and thriving community. The department proudly recognizes these award recipients for their commitment to service and the positive impact they continue to have across Celina.
UPCOMING EVENTS WITH CELINA PD:
Touch-A-Truck: April 11, 10 AM - 1 PM, Old Celina Park
National Fallen Officer Ceremony: May 15, 9 AM, Celina's Downtown Square
Memorial Day Ceremony: May 15, 9 - 10 AM, Celina's Downtown Square
Donut Dash: June 5, 8 AM, Old Celina Park
NOTE: Citizens Police Academy Signs Ups Open in July! Check online for more information .
The Celina Fire Department recently held its annual banquet to celebrate the team’s dedication while looking ahead to the impact of the new Fire Station #4.
Each spring, the Celina Fire Department gathers for one of its most meaningful traditions – the Annual Awards Banquet. In March, firefighters, staff, and community supporters came together to celebrate the achievements of 2025 and recognize the dedication of the men and women who serve the Celina community every day.
The evening provides an opportunity to reflect on the past year, honor outstanding service, and highlight the professionalism and commitment that define the department. It is also a moment to express gratitude to the community and partner organizations whose ongoing support helps make the department’s mission possible.
A special portion of the program recognized several members for their years of service to the Celina Fire Department. Those honored included:
• Captain Chris Kincaid – 10 Years of Service
• Firefighter Bryan McMeekan – 10 Years of Service
• Captain Ryan Worthey – 15 Years of Service
• Volunteer Chief Dick Smith – 20 Years of Service
In addition, Captain Mike Rockne was recognized by the Fire Marshal for his leadership and dedication to educational social media campaigns that help inform and protect the community.
The evening also featured the department’s annual awards, which are selected from nominations submitted by fellow firefighters and staff members. These peer-nominated honors reflect the deep respect and recognition shared among members of the department.
Rookie of the Year: Firefighter Paul Lanssens
Firefighter of the Year: Firefighter E.J. Vest Paramedic of the Year: Tim Bilderback Driver of the Year: Brandon Raidy Officer of the Year: Battalion Chief Mike Lang
Together, these recognitions celebrate a year of exceptional service, dedication, and teamwork in protecting the Celina community.
As Celina continues to experience rapid growth, the City remains focused on expanding the infrastructure necessary to keep residents safe and well served. One of the latest investments supporting that goal is the construction of Celina Fire Station #4, a project that will strengthen emergency response capabilities and enhance public safety for the community.
Currently under construction on the same campus as the new Celina Police Department Headquarters, Fire Station #4 will be part of a unified public safety campus designed to encourage collaboration between police and fire personnel.
By bringing these essential services together in one location, the City is fostering stronger coordination, communication, and efficiency among first responders as they work to protect the community.
The new station will feature three apparatus bays, providing space for additional fire engines and emergency response vehicles. This added capacity will help ensure the Celina Fire Department can effectively serve the rapidly developing southeast portion of the city, where continued residential
and commercial growth is increasing the demand for emergency services.
Another key component of the project is a dedicated training tower that will allow firefighters from across the department to conduct hands-on training exercises in realistic scenarios. This important training resource will support ongoing professional development and help ensure firefighters remain prepared to respond to a wide range of emergency situations.
Designed with resilience and operational readiness in mind, the facility will also include a full generator backup system to maintain operations during power outages, as well as a self-sufficient fueling station to support emergency vehicles during extended incidents or disaster response situations.
Construction of Fire Station #4 is projected to be completed in Spring 2027, marking another important milestone in Celina’s continued investment in public safety infrastructure and the protection of its growing community.
Spring in North Texas brings beautiful weather, but it also signals the start of severe storm season. Thunderstorms, tornadoes, and hail can develop rapidly. To help you stay ready, Celina’s Office of Emergency Management shares these key reminders for the spring season:
Understanding weather alerts is one of the easiest and most effective ways to stay ahead of dangerous conditions.
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• Tornado Watch: Conditions are favorable for severe weather. This is the time to prepare, review your emergency plan, and monitor weather updates.
Tornado Warning: Severe weather is occurring or about to occur. Immediate action should be taken to protect life and property.
A helpful rule of thumb: A watch means “be ready,” while a warning means “take cover.”
Spring storms can bring multiple threats at once. Residents should be aware of several common hazards:
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Large Hail: Even quarter-sized hail can damage roofs, vehicles, and landscaping. Move indoors and bring pets inside.
Flash Flooding: Heavy rainfall can lead to dangerous flooding in a matter of minutes. Remember: Turn Around, Don’t Drown.
• Tornadoes: These storms can form quickly and may be difficult to see. The safest shelter is an interior room on the lowest level of your home, away from windows. Damaging Winds: Straight-line winds can reach hurricane strength and cause widespread damage. Secure outdoor items early in the season.
Lightning: If you hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck. Move indoors or into a hard-topped vehicle immediately.
Outdoor Warning Sirens: What They Are – and What They Aren’t
Outdoor warning sirens are an important part of community alerting systems, but they are often misunderstood.
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Used for multiple hazards: Celina’s sirens may activate for tornadoes, high winds, large hail, or other conditions determined by public safety officials.
• Designed for people outdoors: Sirens are intended to warn individuals who are outside, not those inside buildings.
Not an all-clear signal: When sirens stop, it does not necessarily mean the danger has passed. Residents should continue monitoring reliable information sources. May not be heard indoors: Modern construction, insulation, heavy rain, or background noise may prevent sirens from being heard inside homes.
The Park’s Master Plan was approved by the City Council in January 2024, following the award of the design for stream restoration and trail construction to FNI in October 2022. Development is being completed in phases to ensure each component receives focused attention and quality execution.
Phase 1 of Ousley Park included the construction of the Ralph O’Dell Senior Citizen Center, providing a hub for social, recreational, and community programs. Phase 2 involves remodeling the Parks Administration Building, which is currently under construction and scheduled for completion in September 2026.
The park’s most ambitious effort, Phase 3, focuses on the restoration and stabilization of the Doe Branch stream, coupled with the construction of a 12-foot public trail along the waterway. This phase received its USACE Nationwide 27 permit in late 2025, allowing staff to move forward with stream restoration that will
Ousley Park is steadily coming to life through a thoughtfully planned, multi-phase approach designed to enhance community recreation and natural preservation. The park’s development reflects Celina’s commitment to creating spaces that balance active public use with environmental stewardship.
return Doe Branch to a natural, stable, and functional state. Measures include regrading banks, planting native vegetation, constructing retaining walls where necessary, and establishing intermittent pools to support local habitats.
The 12-foot concrete trail will run parallel to the restored stream, providing a safe and scenic space for pedestrians while delineating public use from sensitive restoration areas. Additional features of this near two-year project include trail lighting, retaining walls, and a pedestrian bridge, all designed to enhance both safety and accessibility. The project also includes a three-year monitoring requirement as part of the USACE permit, ensuring the stream’s long-term ecological health.
Through this phased approach, Ousley Park is poised to become a vibrant community destination that celebrates Celina’s natural beauty while providing residents with recreational opportunities for years to come.
Residents can sign-up for any of these classes at the following: or using the QR code at the bottom of the page. All fitness classes are held at the Ralph O’Dell Senior Center. Each class costs is for the full month of classes.
BARRE
Combines ballet, Pilates, and light weights to sculpt and tone the entire body, focusing on legs, glutes, and core.
Tuesdays at 7:15 PM $20
• April 7 - 28
• May 5 - 26
• June 2 - 23
CORE CIRCUIT
Total-body workout focusing on abdominal strength, light weights, and low-impact cardio.
Thursdays at 7:15 PM $20
• April 9 - 30
• May 7 - 28
• June 4 - 25
KARATE (American Kenpo)
Kenpo is a practical self-defense system emphasizing physical skill, respect, generosity, and personal growth. Classes are tailored to each student’s abilities.
SEMESTER 3 (May 4 - June 25)
• Juniors Phase 1 (7 - 8 years old) – Mondays & Wednesdays
5:45 - 6:20 PM $80
• Juniors Phase 1 (9 - 12 years old) – Mondays & Wednesdays
6:30 - 7:10 PM $80
• Juniors Phase 2/3 (8 - 12 years old) – Mondays & Wednesdays
7:10 - 7:45 PM $100
• Adult Phase 1 (12+) – Tuesdays & Thursdays
5:45 - 6:30 PM $60
• Adult Phase 2 (12+) – Tuesdays & Thursdays
6:30 - 7:10 PM $80
• Adult Phase 3 (12+) – Tuesdays & Thursdays
7:10 - 7:45 PM $100
STEP & SCULPT
Alternates choreographed step sequences with strength-focused segments using light to medium weights. A total-body workout for cardio and toning.
Wednesdays at 6:00 PM $20
• April 8 - 29
• May 6 - 27
• June 3 - 24
YOGA
A dynamic vinyasa flow class that balances strength and stretch. Modifications available for all levels.
Tuesdays at 6:00 PM $20
• April 7 - 28
• May 5 - 26
• June 2 - 23
ZUMBA
A high-energy, cardio-based class blending Latin and international music with simple, repetitive dance moves. Suitable for all fitness levels.
Mondays at 6:00 PM
• April 6 - 27 $20
• May 4 - 18 $15
• June 1 - 22 $20
Mondays & Wednesdays at 7:00 PM $30
• April 6 - 29
• May 4 - 27
• June 1 - 24
KIDOKINETICS PROGRAMS
Archery
• June 15 - 18, Monday-Thursday, 9 AM - 12 PM
• July 13 - 16, Monday-Thursday, 9 AM - 12 PM Golf
• July 6 - 9, Monday-Thursday, 9 AM - 12 PM
• July 20 - 23, Monday-Thursday, 9 AM - 12 PM
Summer is the perfect time to explore new stories, spark creativity, and enjoy reading for fun and Celina Public Library has a full lineup of activities to make this summer unforgettable. From hands-on events to digital resources, residents of all ages are invited to join in celebrating literacy, community, and Celina’s 150th anniversary.
Start the summer with a bang at the Summer Reading Kickoff Party on Saturday, May 23, from 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM. Join us in the Council Chambers at our mini-carnival to register for the Summer Reading Program and track your reading minutes on the Beanstack App. This fun-filled event includes games, activities, and a chance to explore all that the library has to offer for readers of all ages.
This year’s theme, “Unearth a Story,” highlights the excitement of discovering new stories and sharing them with the community. As Director of Library Services Andrea Ortiz explains, “Every person and every community has stories waiting to be found and shared – through books, programs, and local knowledge. This year, as Celina celebrates 150 years, we are excited to uncover stories from across our community.”
Readers can enjoy books on the shelves or on their devices while tracking minutes in the Beanstack App. Participants of all ages can earn prizes as they read, reinforcing literacy skills and encouraging lifelong reading habits.
In honor of Celina’s 150th anniversary, the library is launching a citywide reading challenge: the goal is 150,000 minutes of
reading before December 31, 2026. Every page turned brings the community closer to this historic milestone. Residents can log their minutes using the Beanstack App and take part in celebrating Celina’s history, connection, and love of learning.
In addition to physical books, Celina Public Library offers access to thousands of eBooks, movies, and TV shows through Libby and Hoopla. Simply download the apps and use your library card to enjoy a world of digital entertainment and learning – perfect for reading and watching anywhere, anytime.
This summer, make reading part of your family’s routine while celebrating community and literacy in Celina. From the Kickoff Party to the Summer Reading Program, the 150th Anniversary Challenge, and digital resources, there’s something for everyone. Join us, track your minutes, earn prizes, and help uncover the stories that make Celina truly special.
Looking for a great way to connect with fellow adult readers and dive into thought-provoking stories? The On the Same Page Book Club meets on the first Tuesday of each month at 10:00 AM in the library, offering engaging discussions and a welcoming community for readers of all interests.
SCAN TO CHECK OUT THE LIBRARY ONLINE & DOWNLOAD THE BEANSTACK APP
TODDLER TIME
Mondays, 10:30 - 11:30 AM | Library | 18 months - 3 years
Join us for stories, rhythms, music, and movements to build early literacy skills, practice gross and fine motor skills.
TODDLER TUESDAY
Tuesdays, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM | Library | 18 months - 3 years
Dance, shake up egg shakers, and play with the beloved parachute - all to get those toddlers moving!
BABY STORYTIME
Wednesdays, 10:30 - 11:30 AM | Library
Bring your little ones (up to 18 months) to our weekly Baby Storytime. An easy way to socialize your baby, help them recognize colors, and work on hand-eye coordination. We’ll work on gentle lap play, tickles, building memory, motion, and vocabulary skills.
PRESCHOOL STORYTIME
Thursdays, 10:30 - 11:30 AM | Library | 3 - 5 years
Join us for interactive stories, music, and movement to build language, listening skills, and age-appropriate motor skills.
ON THE SAME PAGE BOOK CLUB
Kin by Tayari Jones
Explore the powerful and intimate family dynamics in Tayari Jones’ Kin, a story that delves into love, loyalty, and the complexities that bind us to those closest to us.
TEEN GAMING
Wednesdays, 5:30 PM | Library
Teens join us in the early evening with their choice of board games or Super Smash Bros on our Game Cube.
POKÉMON CARD TRADING
Thursdays, 3:30 - 5:30 PM | Library
Are you interested in showing other trainers your collection, or even trading cards? Join us each week and bring your Pokémon cards.
STORYTIME
Fridays, 10:30 - 11:30 AM | Council Chambers
Kids of all ages gather to listen to stories, dance, play, and create a themed craft.
LEGO BUILDING HOUR
Thursday, April 16, May 21 & June 18
10:30 - 11:30 AM Library
Kids of all ages join to make a friend, make a scene, create a building, and have some fun!
On the Same Page is an adults-only Book Club that meets on the first Tuesday of the month at 10:00 AM in the Celina Public Library.
Midnight, at the War by Devi S. Laskar
Join the discussion on Midnight, at the War, a compelling novel by Devi S. Laskar that weaves personal stories with the larger backdrop of historical events, highlighting identity, culture, and resilience.
Daughter of the Rebellion by Jamie Ogle
Conclude the spring session with Daughter of the Rebellion by Jamie Ogle, an inspiring tale of courage, perseverance, and the fight for justice in the face of adversity.
Join Us as We Celebrate Celina's 150th & America's 250th!
Celebrate America250 at Celina's Biggest Summer Bash!
Splash & Blast, sponsored by Cook Children's Health Care System, is a family-friendly event will take place at Old Celina Park on Saturday, June 27, beginning at 5:00 PM. With free admission, thrilling activities, great food, and electrifying entertainment, this is a can’t-miss event!
Bring the whole family and dive into a world of excitement! Kids will love the Kids Zone sponsored by Mac Haik, featuring water slides, bubble pits, and endless fun, and enjoy the Craft Zone, sponsored by Marengo Pediatric Dentistry.
Challenge yourself at the Ninja Nation Obstacle Course - just remember to bring closed-toe shoes - and shop the local, handmade market. Meanwhile, adults can indulge in delicious offerings from a variety of food and beverage vendors at Food Truck Alley, sponsored by Swinerton - all while enjoying the best cover bands in North Texas.
5:00 PM: Event Kick-Off
8:00 – 9:30 PM: Live Music
At Dark: Fireworks & Drone Show
10:00 PM: Event Ends
Your safety is our top priority! The Celina Police Department will provide on-site security and monitor the event grounds. Keep your personal belongings with you at all times. If you and your child become separated, a Lost Child Station will be located at the Celina Police Department tent on the northwest side of the stage. Free child ID bracelets are available at the Police Department tent.
HOW TO HAVE FUN IN THE SUN - CELINA STYLE! BRING
Blankets & Lawn Chairs
Sunscreen & Bug Spray
Personal Bags
Closed-Toe Shoes (required for the Ninja Nation Obstacle Course)
Wagons & Strollers
Reusable Water Bottles
Personal Small Coolers
Appetite for Food Trucks
Good Time Vibes!
Open Flames or Grills LEAVE BEHIND
Canopies
Golf Carts or ATVs
Glass Containers
Fireworks, Sparklers, Laser Pointers, Confetti, and Explosives
Drones or Other Flying Devices
Alcoholic Beverages
Illegal Substances
Get ready to make unforgettable memories at Splash & BlastCelina’s Biggest Summer Bash of the Summer. We can’t wait to see you there!
4/10: CELINA FRIDAY NIGHT MARKET
6 - 9 PM, Celina’s Downtown Square
Join us on the Downtown Square for Celina Friday Night Market presented by Renewal by Andersen - an evening that celebrates community spirit, local shopping, great food, and live entertainment. Stroll through a vibrant openair marketplace featuring a diverse collection of vendors offering homemade, handmade, and homegrown goods. It’s the perfect opportunity to discover unique items while supporting local businesses and entrepreneurs.
Enjoy live music from this month’s featured performer, Jason Jobst, and enter to win at the Celina150 raffle, reminiscent of Saturday drawings on the Square!
LIFEINCELINATX.COM/CFNM
4/11: TOUCH-A-TRUCK
10 AM - 1 PM, Old Celina Park
Touch-A-Truck, presented by Cook Children’s Health Care System, is a familyfriendly event that offers a hands-on look at Celina’s essential vehicles and equipment. This free event gives children of all ages the chance to explore the tools and machinery our dedicated City staff use every day to keep Celina running smoothly.
From fire trucks to construction vehicles, kids can climb aboard, honk the horns, and experience the exciting world of public service in an interactive, educational setting. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, play, and connect with the heart of our community!
LIFEINCELINATX.COM/TOUCHATRUCK
4/14 CITY COUNCIL MEET ING
5 PM, City Council Chambers
The Celina City Council convenes on the second Tuesday of each month in the City Council Chambers at 112 N. Colorado St, beginning with an Executive Session at 5:00 PM, followed by the Regular Session at 6:30 PM. These meetings provide a vital forum for policy discussions, decision-making, and updates on key city initiatives.
To promote transparency and accessibility, all City Council meetings are livestreamed and recorded, allowing residents to stay informed and engaged in Celina’s future. Your participation matters - stay connected and join the conversation.
4/24: MOVIE NIGHT AT THE PARK
7 PM, Old Celina Park
Experience a magical night under the stars with a free showing of A Minecraft Movie (PG) on the big screen at Old Celina Park! Presented by Sinacola, this family-friendly event is the perfect way to enjoy an evening outdoors with loved ones.
Bring your lawn chairs and blankets, and enjoy complimentary popcorn and theater candy as you settle in for a night of entertainment. Don’t miss this festive community favorite - see you at Old Celina Park for Movie Night!
LIFEINCELINATX.COM/MOVIENIGHT
5/1: CELINA FRIDAY NIGHT MARKET
6 - 9 PM, Celina’s Downtown Square
Join us on the Downtown Square for Celina Friday Night Market, presented by Renewal by Andersen — an evening celebrating community spirit, local shopping, great food, and live entertainment. Stroll through a vibrant openair marketplace featuring a diverse collection of vendors offering homemade, handmade, and homegrown goods, perfect for discovering unique items while supporting local businesses and entrepreneurs.
Guests can enjoy delicious offerings from local eateries while taking in live music from this month’s featured performer, Prosper’s Side Hustle. Plus, enter to win at the Celina150 raffle, reminiscent of Saturday drawings on the Square!
LIFEINCELINATX.COM/CFNM
5/2: CINCO DE MAYO
2 - 9 PM, Celina’s Downtown Square
Join us in Downtown Celina for a vibrant Cinco de Mayo celebration, hosted by El Puente de Celina and the City of Celina. This annual event honors Mexico’s 1862 victory over the Second French Empire and brings the community together for a festive day of culture, music, and fun.
Enjoy live music, traditional dances, local food and market vendors, and family-friendly activities for all ages. Beyond the festivities, all net proceeds support scholarships for Celina High School students, helping shape the next generation of community leaders. Mark your calendar for a day of heritage, flavor, and community spirit!
CINCODEMAYOCELINA.COM
5/9: CELINA CAJUN FEST
2 - 9 PM, Celina’s Downtown Square
Get ready for a day of bold flavors, live music, and family fun at Celina Cajun Fest, presented by Methodist Celina Medical Center! This annual event brings the spirit of Louisiana to Downtown Celina, featuring delicious Cajun cuisine, lively entertainment, and activities for all ages.
Savor fresh crawfish, jambalaya, and other Cajun favorites, while enjoying high-energy Zydeco and country music performances. The day culminates with an unforgettable live concert featuring Eli Young Band and William Clark Green. Whether you’re a Cajun food enthusiast, country music fanatic or simply looking for a fun-filled day, Celina Cajun Fest is the place to be!
LIFEINCELINATX.COM/CCF
5/12: CITY COUNCIL MEETING
5 PM, Council Chambers
The Celina City Council meets on the second Tuesday of each month in the City Council Chambers at 112 N. Colorado St, beginning with an Executive Session at 5:00 PM, followed by the Regular Session at 6:30 PM. These meetings provide a key forum for policy discussions, decision-making, and updates on important city initiatives.
To promote transparency and accessibility, all City Council meetings are livestreamed and recorded, allowing residents to stay informed and engaged in Celina’s future. Your participation matters - stay connected and be part of the conversation.
5/16: FIRE STATION #1 OPEN HOUSE
10 AM - 1 PM, Fire Station #1
Check out Fire Station #1 at our Open House located at 1413 S. Preston Rd. It’s a great chance for the family to get a behind-the-scenes look at the trucks, meet our firefighters, and see some live safety demos. Come hang out with your local first responders and see how the department works up close.
5/25: MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY
9 AM, Celina’s Downtown Square
Join us for Celina’s Memorial Day Ceremony, a meaningful community event honoring the men and women who have served and sacrificed for our country.
Attend this meaningful gathering to pay tribute through patriotic ceremonies, reflections, and moments of remembrance. Come together with neighbors and friends to honor our heroes and celebrate the freedoms their service has protected.
6/5: POLICE DEPARTMENT DONUT DASH
8 AM, Old Celina Park
Join us for the 4th Annual Celina Police Department Donut Dash! This FREE 1-mile, donut-themed dash is fun for the whole family and a sweet way to start National Donut Day.
Runners of all ages can compete for awards in multiple divisions, including Overall, Masters (40+), Grand Masters (60+), and Great Grand Masters (80+). After the dash, participants are invited to enjoy donuts and coffee with the Celina Police Department.
RUNSIGNUP.COM/RACE/TX/CELINA/CELINADONUTDASH
6/5: CELINA FRIDAY NIGHT MARKET
6 - 9 PM, Celina’s Downtown Square
Join us on the Downtown Square for Celina Friday Night Market presented by Renewal by Andersen - an evening celebrating community spirit, local shopping, delicious food, and live entertainment. Stroll through a vibrant marketplace featuring a variety of vendors offering homemade, handmade, and homegrown goods, perfect for discovering something special while supporting local businesses.
Enjoy the festive atmosphere with flavors from local eateries and live music from this month’s featured performer, Myron Oliver, and enter to win at the Celina150 raffle, reminiscent of Saturday drawings on the Square!
6/10: CITY COUNCIL MEETING
5 PM, Council Chambers
The Celina City Council meets on the second Tuesday of every month in the City Council Chambers at 112 N. Colorado St. The Executive Session begins at 5:00 PM, followed by the Regular Session at 6:30 PM. These meetings serve as a critical platform for decision-making, policy discussions, and updates on key city initiatives.
For accessibility and transparency, City Council Meetings are live-streamed and recorded, ensuring residents can stay informed and engaged in the future of Celina. Your participation matters – stay connected and be part of the conversation.
CELINA-TX.GOV/LIVESTREAM
6/12: MOVIE NIGHT AT THE PARK
7 PM, Old Celina Park
Experience a magical night under the stars with a free showing of Zootopia 2 (PG) on the big screen at Old Celina Park! Presented by Sinacola, this familyfriendly event is the perfect way to enjoy an evening outdoors with loved ones.
Bring your lawn chairs and blankets, and enjoy complimentary popcorn and theater candy as you settle in for a night of entertainment. Don’t miss this festive community favorite—see you at Old Celina Park for Movie Night!
LIFEINCELINATX.COM/MOVIENIGHT
6/27: SPLASH & BLAST
5 - 10 PM, Old Celina Park
Get ready for a fun-filled, patriotic celebration at Splash & Blast! Held each summer at Old Celina Park, this exciting event brings the community together for a day of water fun, live entertainment, and AllAmerican spirit.
Enjoy giant water slides, splash zones, and kid-friendly activities, and cool off with treats from local vendors. As the sun sets, cap the day with a spectacular Celina 150 Drone Show and Fireworks Show lighting up the Celina sky in red, white, and blue. Don’t miss this free, familyfriendly tradition - join the party at Celina’s Biggest Backyard Bash of the Summer!
LIFEINCELINATX.COM/SPLASH26
When people hear that a new “big box” retailer is opening in town, reactions can sometimes be mixed. For some, it raises questions about how national brands fit into a community built on strong local relationships and small businesses.
With the grand opening of Lowe’s in Celina, however, the story is proving to be much more than the arrival of a national retailer. It’s a story about local investment, job creation, community partnerships, and keeping dollars circulating right here in Celina.
One of the most immediate impacts of the new store is its commitment to hiring locally. The Celina Lowe’s employs nearly 100 team members, many of whom are residents of Celina and the surrounding area.
The opportunities have attracted strong interest from a wide range of applicants—from young people entering the workforce for the first time, to adults seeking stable, long-term employment, to older residents looking for flexible or part-time roles. With positions across sales, customer service, logistics, and operations, the store offers opportunities for individuals with a variety of skills and experience levels.
For many employees, working at Lowe’s also means serving their own neighbors and community members, creating a local connection that extends well beyond the sales floor.
As part of the grand opening celebration, Lowe’s also demonstrated its commitment to giving back to the community by supporting several local nonprofit organizations. Contributions were made to Helping Hands of Celina, Donkey and Equine Haven, and Grace Bridge Food Bank, organizations
that provide critical services and resources to families and individuals across the region.
These partnerships highlight the company’s focus on strengthening the community through meaningful local engagement.
Another unique aspect of the grand opening celebration was Lowe’s intentional effort to support small businesses throughout Celina. Instead of relying solely on national vendors for event giveaways, Lowe’s purchased thousands of dollars in gift cards from local businesses to distribute during the grand opening festivities.
This approach ensured that the excitement surrounding the opening would extend beyond the store itself and directly benefit local shops, restaurants, and service providers. By putting those dollars back into the community, Lowe’s helped drive additional traffic and visibility for local businesses.
At the same time, the store also supports contractors, builders, and small business owners who rely on local access to home improvement materials. By providing those resources within Celina, professionals can save time and reduce travel to neighboring cities—keeping more economic activity local.
Prior to the arrival of Lowe’s, many residents had to leave Celina to purchase home improvement products and supplies. That meant valuable sales tax dollars were leaving the community and being spent in neighboring cities.
With Lowe’s now open, more of those purchases can happen locally. The result is additional sales tax revenue that can be reinvested into Celina through community programs, events, infrastructure improvements, and economic development initiatives.
The opening of Lowe’s in Celina illustrates how thoughtful growth can benefit an entire community. By creating jobs, supporting nonprofit organizations, partnering with small businesses, and keeping dollars local, Lowe’s has already begun making a meaningful impact.
It’s a reminder that even a large national retailer can still feel local, especially when it invests in people, partnerships, and the community it calls home.
As Celina continues its remarkable growth, community leaders are focused on ensuring that the city’s identity grows just as thoughtfully as its population and economy. In November 2025, City Council officially adopted a new dual branding strategy for the Celina Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) and Downtown Celina – an initiative designed to strengthen how the community presents itself to residents, visitors, and investors alike.
The branding effort supports key goals outlined in the 2025–2028 CEDC Strategic Framework, including business recruitment, destination development, and enhanced communication. By creating two complementary brands – one focused on citywide economic opportunity and the other centered on the historic Downtown district – Celina can more effectively highlight both its expanding economic corridors and the cultural heartbeat of the community.
The updated branding reflects Celina’s dynamic trajectory as one of the fastest-growing communities in the nation while honoring the city’s heritage, welcoming spirit, and distinctive sense of place. Together, the brands create a cohesive identity that positions Celina as both a thriving destination for investment and a community rooted in authentic Texas character.
Celina EDC: “The Texas You Were Promised.”
The new branding for the Celina Economic Development Corporation delivers a bold message: growth and opportunity in Celina do not come at the expense of quality of life. The brand’s strapline – “ The Texas You Were Promised.” – signals that despite rapid expansion, Celina continues to offer the best of the Texas experience. At its core, the brand represents a promise: a place where thriving enterprise and a great life can be built without compromise.
While the CEDC brand focuses on regional economic opportunity, the Downtown brand celebrates the vibrant personality and cultural energy of Celina’s historic core.
With the playful strapline “Texas Squared,” the Downtown identity conveys the idea that Celina offers the best of Texas –amplified. The phrase captures the spirit of the Square itself, where community gatherings, events, and local businesses create an uniquely welcoming atmosphere.
The Downtown Celina logo reflects this energy through a colorful icon composed of unique pieces that combine into a vibrant whole. The design visually represents the diverse offerings found Downtown – restaurants, shops, events, and gathering spaces – all connected in a lively and dynamic environment.
Downtown Celina represents the community heartbeat, where friendliness, pride, and connection are part of everyday life.
Together, the two brands create a powerful and unified story.
The Celina Economic Development Corporation brand tells the story of wide-open opportunity, honest growth, and a business environment built on character and cooperation. Downtown Celina, meanwhile, captures the authentic charm and vitality of the Square – the place where community spirit comes to life.
Each brand speaks to a different audience but shares the same values and visual harmony. Strategically implemented, the dual approach ensures that both brands stand strong individually while reinforcing one another.
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The In the Know video series is designed to help Celina residents better understand how their City works and the services available to them. Through short, easy-to-follow videos, the series highlights the everyday functions that support the community, including public safety, infrastructure, City services, local history, and community programs. By breaking down information into clear and approachable content, In the Know makes it easier for residents to stay informed about what’s happening in their City.
These videos also serve as a helpful resource for staying up to date on City projects, initiatives, and important updates. By sharing information in a visual and straightforward
The Celina EDC is celebrating the City's 150th anniversary with a special passport program that encourages residents to discover hidden gems and support local businesses from April through January 2027. Participants can explore the community, collect stamps at various stops, and win prizes, products, and exclusive promotions along the way.
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This episode of "In The Know" takes you inside the new Lowe’s in Celina to explore how this major addition is already strengthening our local community. Beyond just being a convenient spot for home improvement, the store is a dedicated partner that prioritizes hiring local residents and building meaningful relationships with our small businesses to keep our economy thriving.
format, the series helps explain topics that can sometimes feel complex or unfamiliar. This open approach supports transparency and gives residents a better understanding of how decisions are made and how City operations affect daily life.
More than just an information tool, In the Know helps strengthen the connection between the City and the community. By encouraging awareness and understanding, the series invites residents to be more engaged and involved in Celina’s growth. It reflects the City’s commitment to clear communication, accessibility, and keeping the community informed every step of the way.
This episode of "In The Know" highlights the Old Celina Cemetery as a lasting symbol of the city's heritage and early settlers. Established around 1870, this is the oldest site in Celina and serves as a powerful connection to the people and stories that helped shape the community we know today. Watch the video to learn more about this historic site.
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This video explores the Yates-Strickland House, one of Celina’s most treasured historic landmarks. By showcasing this beautifully preserved home, the feature offers a unique glimpse into the city's early days and the families who helped build the community. Preserving sites like these keeps Celina's rich heritage alive, serving as a bridge between its storied past and the generations of the future.
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Did you know Celina has a vast online and social media presence? With an assortment of social media channels and websites, we’re committed to keeping our residents informed and entertained in all areas relating to life in Celina. Below, we break down all the pages that will keep you connected to our vibrant community.
WEBSITES
City of Celina Government:
Celina-TX.gov
City of Celina Government:
CityofCelina
Celina_Texas
CityofCelinaTX
CityofCelinaTexas E Q C M
City of Celina Events:
Parks & Recreation:
CelinaTXParks
CelinaTXParks
City of Celina Events: Celina Economic Development Corporation:
LifeinCelinaTX.com
SOCIAL PAGES
Celina Police Department:
CelinaEDC.com
LifeinCelinaTX
LifeinCelinaTX E Q
CelinaPolice
CelinaPoliceTX
Celina Emergency Management: CelinaTXOEM
CelinaTXOEM E Q
Celina Public Library: Celinas EDC:
CelinaPublicLibrary
CelinaPublicLibrary
Celina’s Downtown Square:
DowntownCelina
CelinaMainStreet E Q E Q E Q
Celina-Police-Department
Celina Fire Department:
CelinaFireDept
CelinaFireDept
CelinaEDC
CelinaTXEDC
Celina-Texas-EDC