Galveston's Urban Evolution

Shaping the Future of Our City

Learn about the latest Civics News in Galveston here! Explore the latest developments in urban planning and community projects that are transforming Galveston into a vibrant, sustainable city.

Latest Civics News

David Squared: Galveston Politics, Unfiltered – Episode 2

Politics gets personal in Episode 2 of David² as David Landriault and David Finklea break down how revenue caps, limits, and policy decisions are shaping day-to-day life in Galveston. Real conversation. Real stakes.In each conversation, co‑hosts David Landriault and...

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Another Win for Galveston Shipbuilding

Galveston Isn't waiting for the Future - We're Building It. Galveston just notched two of the most significant maritime wins in the nation: the Coast Guard’s next-generation icebreaker program and the Navy’s Flight III destroyer modules. What began as a hopeful spark...

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Galveston Firehouse Bond Endorsement

We endorse a YES vote on the $10 million Fire Station No. 2 bond. It’s the first brick in a larger promise: protect the people who protect us—and do better than we did this budget season.Galveston’s 1960s-built Fire Station No. 2 can’t meet today’s emergency needs—too...

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Recent Civics Stories

What Local Issues and Civics Stories Should We Cover

Your perspective is vital to understanding Galveston’s civics life. Help The 1839 uncover the important stories that deserve more attention.

Coming Soon - Updates on Ball High Construction

Construction Highlight

Client

Galveston Independent School District

Date

TBA

Status

Ongoing

Project Overview

In this coming construction check-in, you’ll hear from Billy Coltzer, AIA—principal of Galveston’s Zero/Six (Z6) Consulting, the team overseeing the building-envelope commissioning. Coltzer notes that brick veneer is already climbing the north academic wing, the exterior sheathing is nearly closed in, and crews have begun setting window frames while mechanical-electrical-plumbing rough-ins race ahead inside. Foundations for the natatorium and the south academic wing were poured earlier this spring, with structural steel scheduled to go vertical in May. The $200 million project remains on budget and is still targeting substantial completion in late 2025, positioning Ball High students to move into their new campus for the 2026-27 school year.

 

Community Voices

“The new parks and walkways have truly transformed our neighborhood, making it more vibrant and accessible for everyone.”

Emily R., Galveston Resident

“Thanks to the recent urban development projects, our community feels safer and more connected than ever before.”

John M., Local Business Owner

“The improvements in public transport have made commuting so much easier, enhancing our daily lives significantly.”

Linda S., Daily Commuter

Upcoming Community Events

Monday January 12 – Friday January 30

Galveston Restaurant Week

Weeks of January 12 - January 30

Galveston Restaurant Week(s) invites diners to explore the island’s vibrant culinary scene with prix-fixe brunch, lunch, and dinner menus offered at unbeatable prices. It’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy signature dishes, discover new favorites, and savor the diverse flavors that make Galveston a true dining destination.

Galveston Restaurant Week The 1839

Located at Participating Restaurants

Sunday, February 1

2026 Galveston Marathon

7:15 AM

The countdown to the 2026 Galveston Marathon is on, featuring flat, fast coastal miles with scenic gulf views and sea-breeze energy. With Marathon, Half, and 5K events, custom medals, and post-race celebrations, there’s something for every runner.

2026 Galveston Marathon

Galveston Seawall | 515 Seawall Blvd.

Friday, February 6th – Tuesday, February 17

Galveston Mardi Gras

Click below for parade times

Mardi Gras in Galveston brings two full weeks of nonstop celebration with parades, balcony parties, balls, live music, and streets filled with color, beads, and energy. From family-friendly daytime fun to adults-only nightlife, it’s a festival experience packed with great food, unforgettable entertainment, and Gulf Coast flair.

Galveston Mardi Gras

Historic Downtown & Seawall Boulevard

Saturday, February 7

Mardi Gras Watch Party at Holiday Inn Resort

11:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Celebrate Mardi Gras at the Holiday Inn Resort with a premier family-friendly parade watch party on the Seawall, featuring live music from The Nigel Edison Band, great food, and festive drinks. Enjoy front-row views of the Mystic Krewe of Aquarius and Krewe of Gambrinus parades, plus a seafood boil and signature Mardi Gras cocktail included with your ticket.

Mardi Gras Watch Party at Holiday Inn Galveston

Holiday Inn Resort Galveston | 5002 Seawall Boulevard

Saturday, February 14th

Valentine's Day Buffet at Café in the Park

Noon - 9 PM

Café in the Park offers a relaxed and festive Valentine’s Day buffet from noon to 9 p.m., perfect for families and couples alike. With a wide variety of dishes and a bright, welcoming atmosphere, it’s an easygoing way to enjoy a memorable Valentine’s celebration together.

Valentines Day Buffet at Cafe in The Park

Café in the Park | 7 Hope Blvd

Sunday, February 15th

PAWTY GRAS YAPPY HOUR

2:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Show off your furry babies right after the Barkus & Meowe Parade with a lively, pet-friendly hangout made for pawents and pups. Enjoy drink specials for humans, pup-cups for the furries, and plenty of tail-wagging fun.

PAWTY GRAS YAPPY HOUR

1827 Strand

Saturday, February 14th

Caregiver’s Night Out

5:30 PM – 9:00 PM

Caregivers’ Night Out at Galveston Arts Center gives kids a fun, creative evening filled with art projects and activities led by experienced Teaching Artists in a safe, welcoming space. While children build creativity and social skills, caregivers can enjoy dinner, a show, or a relaxing night around Galveston, with enrollment due the Monday before the event and late sign-ups permitted.

Basement to Attic Tours of the 1892 Bishop's Palace. Oct. 4th the 1839.com

2127 The Strand

Tuesday, February 17th

Fat Tuesday

5:30 PM – 9:00 PM

Celebrate Fat Tuesday at the Naked Iguana with live music from Galveston native Patrick Olivier, blending zydeco, country, and soul into the perfect Mardi Gras soundtrack. Enjoy festive drink specials and step right outside to catch the final parade of 2026 from the patio while the celebration rolls on.

Fat Tuesday

Naked Iguana Brewery | 1827 Strand

Friday, February 20th

The Glenn Miller Orchestra Live at The Grand 1894 Opera House

7:00 PM

The Glenn Miller Orchestra returns to the stage with over 18 musicians and singers performing beloved swing-era classics including In the Mood, Chattanooga Choo Choo, and Moonlight Serenade, keeping the legendary sound alive more than 80 years later. Presented by Sonic Era Touring, this must-see performance is perfect for jazz and swing fans, romantics, and anyone ready to step back into the golden age of music.

The Glenn Miller Orchestra Live at The Grand 1894 Opera House

The Grand 1894 Opera House | 2020 Postoffice St.

Saturday, March 28th

The 4th Annual Hatchling Hustle

7:00 AM

The 4th annual Hatchling Hustle takes place at Babe’s Beach on Galveston Island, featuring a 5K run and a 1-mile fun run or walk. Hosted by Turtle Island Restoration Network, the event raises awareness for endangered sea turtles and the upcoming nesting season along the Texas coast.

The 4th Annual Hatchling Hustle

Babe's Beach | 6285 Seawall Blvd

Friday, April 3rd – Friday, April 17th

2026 ELISSA Daysail Series

8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Step aboard the 1877 Iron Barque ELISSA for a unique day sail experience on the Gulf Coast. Train like a 19th-century sailor with hands-on learning as this legendary ship returns to open water.

2026 ELISSA Daysail Series

Galveston Historic Seaport | 2200 Harborside Drive

Saturday, April 25th – Sunday, April 26th

RailFest 2026

10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

RailFest brings model train displays, live entertainment, vendors, and kid-friendly activities to the depot and Garden of Steam. Model train builders from across the country will showcase large-scale trains throughout the museum and railyard.

RailFest 2026

Galveston Railroad Museum | 2602 Santa Fe Place

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Follow us for behind-the-scenes sneak peeks and the latest updates—don’t miss out!
Stay Connected with The 1839!
Follow us for behind-the-scenes sneak peeks and the latest updates—don’t miss out!