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THE LATIN ISSUE CULTURE CLASH CORRESPONDENT AND GUEST EDITOR, JAMIE VILLAMIL, ON BUILDING THE LATIN ISSUE: "I chose to focus on the Latino and Hispanic community because, coming from a first-generation family, it is personal. It is connected to my identity, upbringing, and the experiences that have shaped my understanding of the world. Across the United States and around the world, Latino communities continue to face challenges shaped by discrimination, immigration struggles, economic barriers, and a lack of representation among the voices shaping our future. Growing up, I witnessed what it meant for families like mine to work tirelessly while still being overlooked. I watched my parents make sacrifices to create opportunities they never had , carrying the hopes of those who came before them while building a foundation for the next generation. Their journey shaped the way I view success; not as an individual achievement, but as something built through resilience, determination, and the sacrifices of others. For many first-generation families, success is never achieved alone. It reflects the dedication of parents, the strength of communities, and the drive to create a better future. Resilience should not be the only story associated with the Latino community. Too often, our experiences are acknowledged only when they become headlines, statistics, or political conversations. We are not defined by hardship alone. We are a community shaped by culture, history, innovation, and contributions that continue to influence society. I believe storytelling has the power to challenge perspectives and create meaningful conversations. This issue is about creating space. Behind every statistic, every headline, and every conversation about the Latino community are real people with histories, dreams, and experiences that deserve to be seen, heard, and valued."

Write us an email or shoot us a comment any time online: CultureClashGalveston.com CultureClashGalveston@gmail.com ON THE COVER: Featured Artist, Carlos Villasana, collaborated with Galveston's LULAC Council 151 to create this piece for Día de los Muertos. The piece was then auctioned off, with proceeds supporting scholarships for Latino students' education. According to Carlos, "This piece holds a special place for me; it's a reflection of my culture and identity."

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Table of contents Vol. 9 Issue 6 (September/October 2026)

CULTURE

CL AS H MAGAZINE

FEATURES

16 What It Means to Be Latina in Galveston

PUBLISHER Janese Maricelli-Thomasson LAYOUT & DESIGN JanMar Agency Sara Beshai Monica Fuentes

20 For 78 Years, LULAC Has Been Here for Galveston BE A BETTER HUMAN 7

Representation Starts With Showing Up

Space for Every Voice

VOICES OF THE ISLAND 11 What's In a Label? The Complicated Language of Latinx 12 Inside GHIRP’s Work COOLTURE

MANAGING EDITOR Jessica Safavimehr

SPECIAL THANKS TO LULAC Council 151, CASA of Galveston County, GHIRP, and Ball High Ballet Folklórico

MAKE A CONNECTION For ad rates or personalized marketing strategies, call us at 409.502.8221

25 Featured Artist: Carlos Villasana

ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTIONS Please mail check payable to Culture Clash 1625 23RD ST • GALVESTON, TX 77550 In the amount of $36 Note “subscription” in memo line

27 Ballet Folklórico of Ball High School 28 PULSE Calendar

CONTRIBUTORS Juan Carcano • Eliane Carrasco Jessica Duarte • Kristi Gonzalez Holly Kuchera • Joanna Medoza Reiki Minister • Robert Quintero Keila Rodriguez • Karina Ruiz Krista Ruiz • Jaime Villamil Carlos Villasana

FO R T H

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S KID

GET READY FOR THE NEXT ISSUE!

Be a Better Human

Representation starts with showing up. These stories explore the importance of listening to Latino voices, creating space for every perspective, and building a Galveston where people feel seen, heard, valued, and empowered to shape their community and its future.

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BE A BETTER HUMAN

REPRESENTATION STARTS WITH SHOWING UP Article and Photos By Joanna Mendoza Being Latina is one of the greatest sources of pride in my life. As a first-generation college graduate, I know I would not have completed my education without the tough love and steady motivation of my father. His example set the tone for what would be my life’s work. I grew up watching him work hard, survive on little sleep, and still find ways to help those less fortunate than us. That foundation shaped who I am as CASA of Galveston County's Strategic Marketing and Outreach Manager.

One of the greatest strengths my family instilled in me is a willingness to serve others. I hope that more people in our community will recognize the difference they can make by being more involved. Volunteer, lead, or simply start a conversation. By giving a few hours a week as a CASA volunteer advocate, you can help change the trajectory of a child's life. Learn more at casagalveston.org. Show up any way you can; if not here, anywhere.

Today, I have the privilege of raising awareness for children in foster care who have experienced abuse and neglect. I help connect our community with children who need caring adults to stand beside them and advocate for their future. I carry the responsibility of finding people who can be for these children what my father was for me: a steady voice, a source of support, and someone who believes in their potential. Statistics plainly show what children in foster care are up against, but they do not determine a child's future. As a Latina, I grew up with people who expected me to be just another statistic, so I know the importance of breaking glass ceilings. I also understand the importance of representation. When children see adults from different backgrounds stepping up for them, it sends a powerful message: You matter. Your safety and future matters.

“

You matter. Your safety and future matters.

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BE A BETTER HU MAN

SPACE FOR EVERY VOICE Article By Juan Carcano When I think about the Latino community in Galveston, I think about the people who help keep this city moving. We are part of the workforce, the culture, and the economy. We are business owners, parents, students, community leaders, workers, neighbors, and families who have contributed to the growth and character of this island for generations. Yet, despite our presence and contributions, I believe there is still room for greater visibility and representation. There are so many Latino-owned businesses, community leaders, families, and organizations doing important work throughout Galveston, but those contributions are not always highlighted or recognized at the level they deserve. We have made progress over the years, but I believe we have an opportunity to bring more Latino voices into leadership roles, local conversations, and the decisionmaking processes that shape the future of our city. For me, one of the biggest challenges is accessibility. Information may be available, but that does not necessarily mean it is reaching everyone who needs it. Language can certainly be a barrier, but communication is about more than translation. It is also about trust, awareness, and meaningful outreach. Many Latino families and business owners simply do not know where to turn when they are looking for resources, opportunities, or ways to become more involved in the community.

STAR T

HERE

Hispanic Business Network of Galveston County is dedicated to strengthening and supporting the Hispanic business community through networking, referrals, visibility, and resource-sharing.

Photo Courtesy of HBNGC

Creating stronger connections among the people and organizations doing the work would make a significant difference. Together we can find better ways to bring people together, share information, and ensure residents know what is happening in their own community. Representation is another important part of that conversation. When Latino residents see people who look like them serving on local boards, working with nonprofits, participating in city initiatives, and taking leadership roles in business and community organizations, it creates a stronger sense of belonging. It sends a message that there is a place for us at the table and that our voices matter. That visibility inspires the next generation. When young people see members of their community stepping into leadership, they begin to understand that they can do the same. Representation is not simply about having a seat. It is about creating opportunities for people to participate, contribute, and help shape the community they call home. To me, meaningful change means Latino residents feeling fully included and represented in the decisions that affect their families, businesses, and neighborhoods. It means that our voices are not only heard when we speak up, but actively sought out when Galveston is planning for its future. There are concrete steps we can take to move in that direction. The city and local organizations can expand bilingual outreach efforts, increase Latino representation on advisory boards and in leadership positions, and partner with trusted community leaders who already have strong relationships within the Latino community. Ultimately, it’s about more than programs or policies; it’s about connection. Galveston is a city shaped by many cultures, histories, and traditions. Our Latino community is an important part of that story, and our future should reflect that reality. C U LTU RE C LASH TH E L AT I N I S S UE

BE A BETTER HUMAN

be the change. If you want to see greater representation and stronger connections within Galveston's Latino community, there are already organizations doing the work. Get involved, lend your voice, volunteer your time, or simply start by showing up.

HERE ARE A FEW PLACES TO START: LULAC

Fighting for Hispanic civil liberties. Membership via sponsorship. Next Event: 10/31, Dia de los Muertos

Hispanic Business Network of Galveston County

Connect with local professionals. Monthly Events: Visit Facebook

Latinas for the Arts

Support and celebrate Latina artists and creatives. Monthly Events: Visit Facebook

Girl Gang

Latina-focused Facebook group about finding community. Monthly Events: Visit Facebook

Ball High Hispanic Dance

Youth Hispanic cultural and dance club at Ball High School. Monthly Events: Visit Facebook

YOUR VOICE IS PART OF GALVESTON'S FUTURE.

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Voices of the Island

Latina/o/e/x, Hispanic, or simply Galvestonian. The words we use to describe ourselves can carry a sense of belonging that is hard to articulate. The following stories remind us that community is not defined by a single word.

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VOICES OF THE ISLAND

WHAT’S IN A LABEL? THE COMPLICATED LANGUAGE BEHIND LATINX Article By Reiki Minister I want to start by acknowledging that I am, in fact, someone who does not rely on labels to identify my being or to pursue public acceptance. However, through social observations and my personal thoughts on the way humanity is progressing, I am beginning to better understand how language is being cultivated. I am also growing in understanding how it is used to bring forth one's identity and, in tandem, acceptance from an outward perspective. When I asked my queer-Latin American and Spanish community in Galveston what the term Latinx meant to them, none of them identified with the label. They shared their identity as either Latina, Latino, or Hispanic. When I lived in California, I heard the term Latinx being used more often than I have ever heard it used here in Galveston. Interestingly enough, when I asked an elder in the community what the term Latinx meant to them, the first thing they said was, “It’s because people see us as mutants.” The “X” represents the mutated form, like in “X-Men.” What I discovered about those in the community who are queer and of Latin American or Spanish heritage, out of those I interviewed, neither of them would align themselves with the term Latinx. This was true even if one of them could be seen as trans or other members of the LGBTQ community. They still would refrain from the Latinx identifier. To them, they are no more or less than anyone else who is a minority and do not need the “X” to validate their queer identity.

A brief history lesson may be necessary to better understand this topic.

Scan the QR code to learn your history:

exists within how those families relate with one another, and how they keep peace. It would seem those who are queer, of a minority heritage, and distant from their families would then use language like Latinx to associate themselves with a form of community. The term helps them as they seek belonging and acceptance, which perhaps was not available to them. Furthering the creation of the language by adding “X” because “love” and “nonjudgment” were absent. At the end of my research, I am still bound to my understanding of humans using language to create safety within themselves. Perhaps one day, when humanity no longer relies on language, we would find that true acceptance is a feeling and state of being within, without the need for words.

Another friend of mine from Mexico says Latinx is a form of modern terminology to foster identity and acceptance within themselves. More often than not, for Hispanic families living in America, the real culture S EP T EMB E R / O C T O B E R 2 02 6

VOI CES OF THE ISLAND

INSIDE GHIRP’S WORK TO PROTECT GALVESTON’S IMMIGRANT FAMILIES Article and Photos By Keila Rodriguez and Holly Kuchera of GHIRP

The Galveston-Houston Immigrant Representation Project (GHIRP) is a legal services organization that launched in October 2020 with a mission to build a resilient, diverse community by providing comprehensive representation and holistic legal services to immigrants in need. Inspired by the idea of fundamental fairness, GHIRP’s founders set out to bring a new level of advocacy to meet the realities of our immigration justice system today. Over the past five years, GHIRP has built a proven model of trauma-informed legal representation, helping children, survivors, and families navigate one of the most complex immigration legal systems in the world. Beatriz Treviño and Holly Kuchera make up the Galveston County GHIRP team who currently office in the Washington Building at 2228 Mechanic Street. Beatriz is a proud Galveston County resident, former Galveston ISD teacher, and Galveston County Daily News Citizen of the Year Finalist. The GHIRP Galveston team partners with several local partners, including St. Vincent’s House, a trusted community organization that has served Galveston families for generations. Through this partnership, GHIRP provides monthly Know-Your-Rights Presentations and free immigration legal consultations for Galveston County residents every second Tuesday at 9:30 am at St Vincent’s House. GHIRP also regularly receives referrals from many Galveston County service providers and organizations to ensure that all Galveston County immigrants in need can receive quality information and legal advice. GHIRP Galveston provides direct legal representation for eligible individuals, assistance with naturalization and citizenship applications, legal services for immigrant survivors of crime and human trafficking, and referrals to trusted community resources and support services. In the 2024-2025 fiscal year, GHIRP

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2,765

VOICES OF THE ISLAND

CLIENTS SERVED

661 42 1,959

While these are undoubtedly challenging times for immigrants in Galveston County, GHIRP continues to achieve positive outcomes for our clients every day. GHIRP’s goal is to ensure that members of the Galveston community know that reliable legal information and compassionate legal representation are available and that they do not have to navigate the complex immigration system alone. S EP T EMB E R / O C T O B E R 2 02 6

400

APPLICATIONS FILED ON BEHALF OF OUR CLIENTS (81% INCREASE FROM 23-24)

CHILDREN AND YOUTH RECEIVED DIRECT LEGAL REPRESENTATION

(31% INCREASE FROM 23-24)

119

PEOPLE APPLIED FOR U.S. CITIZENSHIP WITH OUR HELP (467% INCREASE FROM 23-24)

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS AND CONSULTATIONS PROVIDED

GHIRP’s legal services provide immigrants powerful tools to prevent unlawful immigration arrests, detention, and family separation. Legal representation is often the deciding factor between safety and separation, but access to attorneys and legal information remains alarmingly scarce. Recent data shows that only 27.8% of immigrants in deportation proceedings in Texas had legal representation. GHIRP exists to close that gap.

STAFF MEMBERS

1,775

Galveston represented 182 individuals and provided Know-Your-Rights presentations to 269 individuals.

NEW CLIENTS (46% INCREASE FROM 23-24)

GALVESTOn 269 PARTICIPANTS RECEIVED KYRs (66% INCREASE FROM 23-24) 182 CLIENTS REPRESENTED (168% INCREASE FROM 23-24) 13

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LATINA IN GALVESTON A Conversation with Jessica Duarte, Elaine Carrasco, and Karina Ruiz Interviewed by Culture Clash Magazine | Photos by Contributors

Galveston is a city shaped by generations of people who have made homes, built businesses, raised families, served their neighbors, and carried their cultures forward. For the island's Latino community, being rooted in Galveston does not mean staying within its boundaries. It means honoring where we come from while imagining where we can go next. In this special collection of firstperson stories, Latino business owners, community leaders, advocates, and organizers share what it means to build a life and a future on the island. From creating spaces for dance and helping seniors navigate Medicare to supporting students through scholarships and encouraging entrepreneurs to dream beyond the island, these stories offer a look at the people working every day to make Galveston stronger, more connected, and more inclusive. S EP T EMB E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 02 26 6

LATINA IN GALV ESTON Dancing My Way Home Jessica Duarte on Building a Place for Dance in Galveston I have been living in Galveston for eight years. Before Galveston, El Paso, Texas, was my home, where I worked at a ballroom dance studio. I never imagined myself owning a studio, but when I arrived in Galveston, I was surprised to discover there was nowhere to learn ballroom dancing. My husband saw my desire to dance every day, so he made space in our garage so I could keep up with my practice. Five years later, I have my own studio, Danzica, and I am blessed to bring dancing to all kinds of people. Creating Danzica has been about more than opening a business. It has been about creating a space where people can come together through movement and experience the joy of dance. What started as a need in my own life became an opportunity to build something for the community I now call home. Galveston has given me a place to grow, and I am grateful to be able to give something back by bringing dance to the island and making it available to more people. Good People Helping Good People Elaine Carrasco on Making Medicare Education More Accessible At Good People Helping Good People, our mission is to educate and empower seniors so they can make confident decisions about Medicare. I believe people deserve clear information and the ability to understand their options without feeling pressured. We offer our Medicare 101 educational events in both English and Spanish, making information available in the language people are most comfortable with, which makes it easier for our community to understand the choices available to them. Our educational events are completely free, and our goal is to simplify Medicare. The goal is never to pressure anyone into enrolling in a plan. Instead, we focus on providing clear, unbiased education so people can make informed decisions based on their individual healthcare needs, doctors, and medications. Helping people understand something that can often feel confusing or overwhelming is one of the most meaningful parts of what I do.

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LATINA IN GALVESTON Why Think Small? Karina Ruiz on Growing Up Latina in Galveston and Building a Bigger Future I was born and raised in Galveston, and this island has shaped almost everything about who I am. Growing up here, you realize how small it can feel. A lot of people don't even cross the bridge. They stay comfortable because this is what they know. I love Galveston, and I always want to be here, but I also knew I had to think bigger. When I decided I wanted to become a massage therapist, I didn't just want to be known in Galveston. I wanted people all over Texas to know my name. I wanted someone to come to the island and say, "When I go to Galveston, I'm going to get a massage from her." Eventually, I started thinking even bigger than Texas. I wanted to think worldwide. That mindset wasn't always easy to explain to people, especially in my family. I grew up with a strong work ethic and a belief that you work hard, take care of your family, and don't step too far outside what you know. My mother is one of the hardest-working people I know. After our family went through a divorce, homelessness, and living in the projects, she sold tamales to help get us out. She was making as many as 80 dozen a week. She did what she had to do to take care of us. My mother taught me how to work hard, but I want to teach my children that they don't always have to struggle. They can follow their dreams. They can think bigger.

One of the biggest lessons I've learned is that sometimes you have to be willing to go where other people don't expect you to go. In 2018, I took my massage business to a vendor event in Houston connected to Dope House Records. It wasn't exactly the obvious place for a massage therapist with candles and a massage chair, but I saw it as an investment. That decision eventually helped me connect with people I never imagined I would meet, including artist and rapper Baby Bash. I've continued to push myself outside of Galveston, and I've had opportunities to work with people from all over. I was even featured on IShowSpeed's livestream, where millions of people around the world saw me. Every experience reinforces the same lesson: Why think small? Think big. Now, I want to use what I've learned to help other people, especially within the Latino community. I'm involved with LULAC, where we've been able to help provide scholarships to students throughout Galveston County, and I'm also involved with the Hispanic Business Network of Galveston County. The goal is to help business owners find resources, connect with one another, and recognize that there are people who can help. My hope for Galveston's Latino community is that people realize there is more out there. I want people to get out, network, connect with other cultures and businesses, and let the world know they exist. We don't have to stay in our comfort zones. I want to be part of creating those opportunities. I want to help people think bigger, dream bigger, and believe that they can build something meaningful right here, while still reaching far beyond the island. Galveston will always be home. It gave me my roots, my work ethic, and my reason to keep pushing. But I don't believe being from a small island means you have to have small dreams.

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LULA C GALVESTON

For 78 Years,

LULAC

Has Been Here for

Galveston...

Photos Courtesy of LULAC

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LULAC GALVESTON

Rob Quintero on the Legacy and Future of LULAC in Galveston I have been involved with LULAC for a long time, and one of the things I have learned is that our work is about much more than one program or one issue. The League of United Latin American Citizens has been fighting for civil rights, education, and equal opportunity for generations. Here in Galveston, our council has been doing that work for 78 years. When people ask me what LULAC does, I tell them that we are here to help people. Sometimes that means standing up for civil rights. Sometimes it means helping a family find resources. Sometimes it means supporting a young person who needs a little help getting to college. Whatever the need is, we try to be there. Education has always been one of the most important parts of our work. Our scholarship program began in the early 1960s, and this year we are breaking the $1 million mark in scholarships awarded over the life of the program. LULAC provides scholarships to recent high school graduates and college students, and the money can be used for whatever the student needs, whether that is tuition, books, or housing. Our scholarships aren't limited only to Hispanic students. We look for students who have a financial need and can benefit from the support. We want to give young people an opportunity to continue their education and build a future for themselves. But scholarships are just one piece of what we do. We have supported organizations such as the Sunshine Center and the Ronald McDonald House. S EP T EMB E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 02 26 6

LULA C GALVESTON

We work with children with autism and have sponsored Little League and Lassie League in Galveston for decades. We also support Galveston's ROTC students, including sending one Hispanic student to a leadership academy each summer. LULAC believes in giving young people opportunities to grow into leaders. We also believe that culture and community should be celebrated. Our Cinco de Mayo celebration includes folklórico and Aztec dancers, and this year we brought back our Cinco de Mayo parade after more than 30 years. We also participate in Día de los Muertos celebrations. These events are important because they give people a chance to celebrate our culture while inviting the entire community to take part. LULAC also has a responsibility to speak up when people's civil rights are threatened. We have participated in demonstrations and worked with families and communities when they need assistance. We don't always lead the fight. Sometimes our role is to connect people with the right resources or help them find the LULAC council or district director best equipped to address their situation. We are there to assist. Looking ahead, I want to see LULAC continue to grow in Galveston. I want more people to know who we are and understand that we are here for them. I want businesses, churches, nonprofits, and community organizations to work together instead of staying in separate corners. When you have like-minded people with a progressive attitude, you can get things done. The attitude shouldn't be, "It can't be done." It should be, "Let's be the first." That is what I want for LULAC and for Galveston. Let's keep the fire alive, keep serving our community, and keep finding new ways to make this island a better place for everyone. 22

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Coolture: Arts + Music

In this issue, we celebrate how Carlos Villasana transforms walls across the island into bold expressions of color and community, while the young dancers of Ball High School’s Ballet Folklórico keep Mexican heritage alive.

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COOLTURE: CARLOS VILLASANA

FEATURED ARTIST: CARLOS VILLASANA Carlos Villasana is a Galveston, Texas–based artist, muralist, educator, and the creator of Loz Paints Art Works. Art has always been a part of his life. Even as a toddler, Carlos used his mother’s makeup to draw on walls and plants to create colors he did not have. Now, he uses art to connect with others and represent the culture and community that has shaped who he is. His journey as an artist has been built through passion, experimentation, and a willingness to challenge himself. Over the years, he has developed his own style by combining bold colors, modern designs, cultural influences, and elements inspired by Houston and Galveston. What began as a personal passion has grown into a business and an opportunity to leave a lasting mark on his community. Through Loz Paints Art Works, Carlos has created murals, paintings, live artwork, and custom projects for schools, businesses, organizations, and public spaces. He says, “Seeing my work displayed throughout the community has been one of the most rewarding parts of my journey.”

Photos Courtesy of Artist

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COOLTURE: CARLOS VILLASANA Alongside his art career, Carlos has also worked in education. Working with students has taught him the importance of patience, communication, creativity, and building meaningful relationships. He says his experience in education has also influenced the type of artist hopes to be—someone who can use creativity not only to make spaces beautiful, but also to inspire others. One of the biggest lessons Carlos has learned is that growth comes from being willing to try things that may feel uncomfortable or unfamiliar. Whether he is painting a large-scale mural, experimenting with a new technique, working with students, or managing the business side of art, he continues to learn. Carlos says, “I am proud of how far I have come, but I also know that my story is still being written. My goal is to continue evolving as an artist, expanding Loz Paints Art Works, and creating meaningful artwork that represents my Mexican culture, my community, and the experiences that made me who I am.

Join the Culture Clash Crew to keep Galveston’s stories in print, support local artists, and get exclusive perks: • Behind-the-scenes content • Early access to our island’s stories • Member-only merch and more Scan the QR code to join today. Culture doesn’t survive on its own — people keep it alive. Dirty Third Coast Correspondent $5/month

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COOLTURE: BALLET FOLKLÓRICO

BALLET FOLKLÓRICO OF BALL HIGH SCHOOL Article and Photos By Kristi Gonzalez The Ballet Folklórico of Ball High School began as an after-school program within the school’s Spanish Club. Founded by instructor Anna Olivares, the program was created after she recognized the enthusiasm and potential of students who were looking for a place to belong. Many participants were not involved in other school organizations, and she envisioned a program that would give them a sense of pride, purpose, and community. Mrs. Olivares also believed that Ballet Folklórico could serve as a way to celebrate and share Mexican culture with the broader community. She wanted students of all backgrounds to appreciate their heritage, learn about cultural traditions, and develop respect for diversity. To make this vision a permanent part of the school, she developed a comprehensive curriculum and presented it to the School Board. After receiving approval, Ballet Folklórico officially became a credited class. For more than 30 years, the program has continued to grow in both size and reputation. It has earned numerous awards, including recognition at competitions hosted by Lamar University in Beaumont.

The group has also gained international recognition through performances in Ball High School’s sister city of Stavanger, Norway, where students proudly represent their school, community, and culture. Over the decades, Ballet Folklórico has become a cherished tradition at Ball High School, with multiple generations of families participating as siblings, cousins, and other relatives follow in one another’s footsteps. The program maintains high standards, requiring students to keep passing grades and good attendance. These expectations encourage academic success while teaching discipline, responsibility, and teamwork. Today, Ballet Folklórico of Ball High School stands as a lasting symbol of cultural pride, excellence, and opportunity, enriching the lives of students and strengthening connections within the community.

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COOLTURE: PUL SE CALENDAR

PULSE

Photo Courtesy of 409 Dronegraphy

SEPT-OCT 2026 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

OLD 97’S, STRAND SUMMER SERIES September 12 | 7 PM - 9 PM Saengerfest Park Galveston Historical Foundation invites you to enjoy historic downtown Galveston for the 2026 Strand Summer Series! These movie and music nights are located in The Strand’s principal parks and feature free-to-the-public concerts and movies from April through September. Admission: Free ARTWALK September 12 & October 10 | 6 PM - 9 PM Downtown Galveston ArtWalk occurs monthly on the Second Saturday. In partnership with downtown galleries, artist studios, nonprofits, and local businesses, ArtWalk takes place inside existing art spaces, for free and open to everyone. Admission: Free 2ND ANNUAL GALVESTON PIRATE FESTIVAL WEEK September 14 - 20 Various Locations 2nd Annual Galveston Pirate Festival runs from September 14 to September 20, with the main festival events on Saturday, September 19, at Moody Gardens. The week features free weekday activities, a pirate boat parade in the harbor on Friday, live music, and familyfriendly swashbuckling entertainment. Admission: Tickets starting at $25 3RD ANNUAL GALVESTON ISLAND GHOST COAST FESTIVAL October 9 - 11 League Kempner Mansion The Ghost Coast Festival is a family-friendly event that will be held at the League Kempner Mansion October 9 - 11, 2026, and includes celebrity guests, paranormal investigations, a vendor market, panels, speakers, and so much more! Admission: Tickets starting at $40 28

HARVEST MOON REGATTA October 22 | 2 PM Start Seawall The 2026 Harvest Moon Regatta starts on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at 2:00 PM near the Galveston Pleasure Pier. Hundreds of boats race a 150-nautical-mile course down the Texas coast to Port Aransas, hosted annually by the Lakewood Yacht Club. Admission: Free MYSTICAL PARADE OF BOO October 24 | 6:30 PM Downtown Galveston This family-friendly Halloween event takes place in the historic downtown district and features decorated golf carts, dancers, and festive floats. Admission: Free

LATINAS FOR THE ARTS PRESENTS DÍA DE LOS MUERTOS FASHION SHOW November 1 | 2 PM - 5PM The Grand 1894 Opera House The "Día de los Muertos Fashion Show" in Galveston is presented by Latinas for the Arts in support of The Grand 1894 Opera House. The upcoming event, themed "It Takes an Island," is scheduled for Sunday, November 1, 2026, at The Grand 1894 Opera House. Admission: TBD

C U LTU RE C LASH TH E L AT I N I S S UE

Fall Festival Guide

SEPT 19-20

OCT 17-18

SEPT 25-26

OCT 23-24

SEPT 19-20

SEPT OCT OCT 19-20 10-11 10-11

OCT 31

For more information go to S EP T EMB E R / O C T O B E R 2 02 6

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BRINGING TOGETHER ART, AWARENESS AND ADVOCACY.

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

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#TurtlesAboutTown | @tirn.gulf

Lady Gem’s Tea by the Sea

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A community art project that highlights the City of Galveston and the conservation efforts of Turtle Island Restoration Network to protect endangered sea turtles on the upper Texas coast.

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LIVE MUSIC AND THANKSGIVING FOOD/CANNED DRIVE

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NOV 21ST | 6 PM ALLEYKATZ 1808 AVE M MIDNIGHT HERON