CULTURE CLASH Healthy Galveston - January/February 2025

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CULTURE CLASH

a venue for Galveston’s free thinkers

Tourist-Ted

SpiritofSea Aggieland

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.

BRINGING TOGETHER ART, AWARENESS AND ADVOCACY.

Rovin' Rotarian

SELF-GUIDED TOUR SELF-GUIDED TOUR

Lady Gem’s Tea by the Sea

I nt e gratedTherapies

SHARON OLSON LMT

Feel better. Feel relaxed. Feel your BEST.

Healthy Galveston Healthy Galveston

Integrated massage therapy is my passion, my purpose, and my peace. Let me help guide you on your path to health and vitality.

This issue’s focus is “Healthy Galveston," exploring the ways our island is working to live better, longer, and stronger. The cover story dives into the details of what makes a Blue Zone and how Galveston can become one. If you haven’t heard of Blue Zones, these are places where people routinely live to 100 years or more, thanks to a blend of natural movement, purpose-driven lives, strong social connections, and nourishing diets. These areas have captivated researchers and communities worldwide, and we believe Galveston has what it takes to join their ranks.

Galveston is already on its way to being a Blue Zone. From the walkable streets of the Strand to the fresh produce sprouting in community gardens, from beach cleanups that strengthen our environment to mental health initiatives that strengthen our spirits, our island is embracing wellness in all its forms. Throughout this issue, you’ll find stories that celebrate and challenge us to think differently about health and community.

Health is more than just a personal journey. Our hope is that this issue sparks conversations, inspires action, and reminds all of us that Galveston’s greatest strength has always been its people. Together, we can create a community that not only survives but thrives for generations to come.

Here’s to a healthier Galveston and a brighter future for our island!

ON THE COVER: "Island Blues” by J. Lee Art Creations, is the artist's interpretation of the term “Blue Zone."

*This magazine is NOT printed on recycled paper or with soy-based inks YET! But we are working on it. Help us get there, advertise or sponsor us! E-mail for more details CultureClashGalveston@gmail.com.

Be a Better Human

What if the key to a longer, healthier life wasn’t hidden in cutting-edge tech or expensive trends but in the age-old wisdom of the world’s Blue Zones? These regions, known for their exceptional longevity and vitality, hold the secrets to thriving physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Rise and shine. Timothy Simkins wakes up early to enjoy a quiet workout on the sandy beaches of the island.

BUILDING A HEALTHIER GALVESTON

A healthy community begins with instilling good habits in children, particularly around nutrition and exercise. That’s why it is imperative for local businesses to support initiatives like The Young Gardener’s Program through the Farmer’s Market, teaching kids the value of fresh produce and outdoor activity.

In many Blue Zone cultures, people spend significantly more time outdoors and walk more than the average American. Here in Galveston, we’re fortunate to have natural spaces that encourage a similar lifestyle. The beach, for instance, is ideal for walking, grounding, and reconnecting with nature—a practice that can help alleviate the stress of modern life. Even the simple act of gazing at the Gulf can be a powerful stress reliever.

Achieving

this vision starts with us—modeling healthy behaviors for our children and peers.

A great example of connecting with nature is Bent on Healthy Living’s free beach yoga hosted every Wednesday in May, offering residents and visitors the opportunity to combine movement with mindfulness in a serene setting. If you’ve never experienced yoga on the beach at sunrise, it’s a rejuvenating way to start your day. Beyond yoga, I encourage everyone to get outside and find joy in activities like walking a dog (yours or one from the Galveston Island Humane Society), fishing, or simply sitting along the seawall and soaking in the beauty of the Gulf. In addition to promoting outdoor activity, I also advocate for homeopathic approaches to health. Using essential oils, halotherapy (salt booth), or an infrared sauna to manage allergies, joint pain, or stress can often be effective alternatives to over-the-counter medications.

Another aspect of Blue Zones is the social and community connectivity. The island offers places to connect with others who share a commitment to health through recreation and wellness centers. Group fitness classes help beginners and seasoned exercisers alike feel part of a supportive community. In addition, community initiatives like the Share Your Holidays Food Drive, doggie yoga fundraisers for the Galveston Island Humane Society, and a freecycle fitness clothing exchange reflects the island’s dedication to promoting wellness and community.

Fresh veggies courtesy of Ely with Sustainable Vegetable Garden. Check out their booth at Galveston's Own Farmers Market.

Sustainability should also be a priority. We can promote sustainability by encouraging each other to carry refillable water bottles, reducing single-use plastics. Future programs like Perpetual, will help reduce single-use plastics by offering a reusable cup system throughout island business. The city’s efforts to keep our beaches clean and educate the public with Washed Ashore sculptures, which highlight the importance of recycling and reducing marine debris, is unmatched.

The need for better nutrition and exercise is more urgent than ever, given the rising rates of obesity and metabolic disease. Expanding community gardens and offering free classes on preparing healthy meals would be a gamechanger for Galveston. Teaching people to make traditional dishes healthier and reconnect with cooking at home could significantly improve overall health.

Initiatives like The Young Gardener’s Program and Galveston’s Own Farmer’s Market are already making strides by providing fresh, affordable produce to families. These efforts set the stage for a healthier future by making nutritious food more accessible.

I envision a Galveston where people are walking, biking, swimming, gardening, playing pickleball, and enjoying the outdoors. Achieving this vision starts with us—modeling healthy behaviors for our children and peers. Surrounding ourselves with active, health-conscious individuals inspires us to adopt similar habits. Imagine attending a group fitness class, walking on the beach with friends, and finishing the day with a healthy salad. Small changes like these can lead to a healthier overall lifestyle.

The team here at Bent on Healthy Living strives to lead by example. Several of our instructors are over 60 and have been teaching fitness classes for decades, demonstrating the benefits of lifelong physical activity. One of our instructors didn’t begin exercising until her late 40s but found that it transformed her life. Today, she teaches Pilates, cycling, and barre, inspiring others to start their own wellness journeys.

Building a healthier community is a collective effort, and together, we can create a Galveston that thrives on wellness, connection, and sustainable living.

Free Health and Wellness Resources on The Island

Community Fridge

The Galveston Community Fridge provides nutritious, fresh food to the community 100% free.

Located at 4628 Avenue Q

Menard Park

Menard Park offers free ways to exercise including an outdoor gym, skate park and playground.

Located at 2222 28th Street

Rosenberg Library

Rosenberg offers free events throughout the week that include activities for all ages.

Located at 2310 Sealy Avenue

ArtWalk

In 2025, ArtWalk will occur monthly on the Second Saturday for the community to freely tour installations.

Located on Post Office Street

Lee and Joe Jamail Bay Park

Looking for a free place to cast your reel? Lee and Joe Jamail is the perfect spot to fish on Offatts Bayou.

Located off of 61st Street

Voices of the Island

Galveston thrives on community spirit, because of this the island is well on its way to becoming a Blue Zone. Read along for what members had to say about the resources the island has to offer that can help us all live longer healthier lives.

Bloom Community Garden at the Sunshine Center.

CULTIVATING KINDNESS THROUGH GARDENING

Interview with Emma Mericle: The Vision Behind Bloom Galveston

“I’m Emma Mericle, a second-year OTD student at UTMB,” she begins with enthusiasm. “Through a scholarship, I was able to create a program called Bloom Galveston. It’s a community garden initiative designed to cultivate kindness, civility, and independence for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.”

Bloom Galveston operates at the Sunshine Center, a day center for individuals with disabilities in Galveston. The program focuses on teaching participants the importance of gardening, providing them with the skills and tools needed to grow their own produce. “We’re not just gardening. We’re learning why we’re doing it and how it connects to wellness and independence,” Emma explains. Galveston’s unique climate plays a significant role in Bloom’s success. “We’re in Zone 19, and the mild winters and moisture allow us to grow crops year-round,” Emma says. The current garden includes kale, collard greens, carrots, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage. “Overall, the climate here lets us grow more than we could in colder regions.”

Emma’s research into gardening highlights its profound impact on mental health. “Gardening provides a sense of autonomy and accomplishment,” she explains. “For individuals with disabilities, it offers a chance to care for something else, as they’re often the ones being cared for.” The inclusivity of gardening makes it particularly special. “Whether someone uses adaptive equipment or not, everyone can participate,” she says. “It fosters independence and builds social connections. Research shows helping others improves mental wellness, and at Bloom, participants are not just gardening—they’re teaching and supporting one another.” Emma recalls the joy of seeing participants react to the transformed garden for the first time. “They were so excited and happy. It was incredibly encouraging to see how much they embraced it,” she says.

Emma Mericle, second year Occupational Therapy Doctoral student at UTMB and founder of Bloom Galveston.

When asked about turning Galveston into a Blue Zone, Emma points to kindness and community as key factors. “When I started this project, I conducted a needs assessment. What stood out most was the need for kindness and civility,” she says. Emma believes that adding purpose to activities like gardening can create a lasting impact. “It’s not just about having a garden..it’s about why we’re doing it. We want to serve others and build a community rooted in kindness and connection.” Bloom Galveston is more than a garden. It's a community project fueled by donations and volunteer support. “If anyone is interested in helping out or learning more, we’re always open to talking about it,” Emma shares.

As the program grows, Emma hopes to see it inspire others in the Galveston community. “Gardening is a small step, but it’s a powerful way to bring people together, improve mental health, and build a more connected, sustainable community.” Bloom Galveston, is planting seeds for a kinder, healthier Galveston.

FISHING AND A FLOW STATE SHAPE GALVESTON

Galveston is more than just a vacation spot; it’s a place where the rhythms of the ocean influence life in profound ways. Robert Kuhn, a musician and longtime resident, has experienced the power of this coastal community firsthand. Through fishing, music, and a deep connection to nature, he has found sustenance and a sense of belonging and purpose.

Kuhn’s relationship with fishing began long before he arrived in Galveston. He lived in indigenous villages in Central and South America. “People there live almost entirely off what they create from farming, fishing, and building their homes and boats,” he shares. The experience of working alongside these communities left a lasting impression.

In Galveston, fishing is more than a pastime; it’s a sustainable way of life. One particular fish stands out in Kuhn’s narrative: the mullet. Often overlooked or dismissed as a “trash fish,” mullet is abundant, low in mercury, and packed with nutrients. “People in other parts of the Gulf Coast love mullet—smoked mullet is a delicacy. Here, it’s plentiful but underutilized,” he explains.

Robert Kuhn casting his net off the coast of Galveston.

For Kuhn, fishing is a way of connecting with nature, finding a flow state, and creating shared memories with his daughter. “When you’re fishing, you’re in the sun, in the water, and in tune with the world around you. It’s like surfing or playing music; it puts you in a flow state.” Kuhn describes the flow state as a psychic condition where one is fully immersed in an activity, free from the distractions of the ego. “Whether it’s fishing, surfing, or jamming on a guitar, you’re present in the moment, and it’s incredibly fulfilling,” he says. This state of being is something he believes contributes to the longevity and well-being observed in “Blue Zones,” areas around the world where people live extraordinarily long lives. For Kuhn, Galveston offers many pathways to achieving this flow state. “Time spent fishing is time that doesn’t age you. It’s healing for the mind and body.”

When asked how Galveston could evolve into a Blue Zone, Kuhn's answer is simple: “Go fishing.” He believes fostering connections to nature, embracing sustainable practices, and building a strong community are essential. He also highlights the importance of traditions like dancing, bartering at farmers’ markets, and celebrating local culture.

When you’re fishing, you’re in the sun, in the water, and in tune with the world around you. It’s like surfing or playing music; it puts you in a flow state.

Galveston’s culture thrives on its sense of community. “This place has always been special,” Kuhn says. “It’s a reflection of humanity: creative, resilient, and connected.” The island fosters an environment where people can pursue their passions, whether as artists, musicians, or small business owners. Kuhn is passionate about building on this foundation. “It’s not just about farming or fishing; it’s about creating a sustainable, interdependent community,” he explains.

Kuhn’s vision is rooted in self-sufficiency and mutual support. “The more independence we have, whether through growing food, fishing, or trading the better,” he says. For him, Galveston represents a place where people can thrive by reconnecting with the land and each other. Galveston isn’t just a location; it’s a lifestyle. “This island lets people be who they are,” Kuhn says. “It’s a place where writers, musicians, doctors, and fishermen coexist, each contributing to the vibrant tapestry of the community.” Galveston offers an unparalleled sanctuary for those seeking peace, creativity, and a deeper connection to life. As Kuhn puts it, “There’s something about crossing the causeway that elevates your mood. It’s like coming home.”

Angel and Chris capture a red fish at the Galveston Fishing Pier on 91st and Seawall.

WHAT IS A BLUE ZONE

AND HOW GALVESTON IS ON THE PATH TO BECOMING ONE

Imagine living in a community where reaching 100 years old isn’t the exception but the norm. Where people thrive into old age, not just in years but in health and happiness, these places, known as Blue Zones, have captivated scientists, health enthusiasts, and urban planners worldwide. Blue Zones are regions identified as having the highest concentrations of people who live to 100 years or more and have low rates of chronic diseases. Five Blue Zones are officially recognized: Okinawa, Japan; Sardinia, Italy; Ikaria, Greece; Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica; and Loma Linda, California.

While these zones are spread globally, they share commonalities in lifestyle, diet, social connection, and community design that contribute to their residents’ extraordinary longevity. Galveston is embracing these principles and making strides to join this elite group. Blue Zones are more than just geographic locations; they are ecosystems of habits, values, and environments that promote long, healthy lives.

There are several elements that make up a Blue Zone including movement, purpose, stress reduction, plant based diet, and a strong social connection. In Blue Zones, exercise isn’t scheduled; it’s seamlessly integrated into daily life. Residents walk, garden, or perform physical labor as part of their routines. This constant, low-intensity movement keeps their bodies healthy without the need for gym memberships. Residents of Blue Zones wake up each day with a sense of purpose, often referred to as ikigai [Ick-ee-guy] in Japan or plan de vida in Costa Rica. This life purpose has been shown to add years to their lives by reducing stress and improving mental health.

A plant-based diet is a key staple of a Blue Zone.

BLUE

ZONES ARE REGIONS IDENTIFIED AS HAVING THE HIGHEST CONCENTRATIONS OF PEOPLE WHO LIVE TO 100 YEARS OR MORE AND HAVE LOW RATES OF CHRONIC DISEASES.

The ability to live off the resources immediately available to you allows you to become self-sustaining.

Chronic stress is virtually absent in these communities. Practices like meditation, prayer, naps, and spending time in nature help residents unwind and prevent stress-related illnesses. Members of Blue Zones diets are primarily plant-based, consisting of legumes, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, with meat consumed sparingly. Community and family are pillars of life in Blue Zones. People maintain close connections through family ties, faith-based groups, or friendships, which provide emotional support and a sense of belonging. The infrastructure within Blue Zones encourages physical activity, healthy eating, and social interaction. Walkable streets, community gardens, and fresh food make healthy choices easy.

Galveston is full of bountiful community gardens.

The gulf provides healthy options for food packed with protein and vitamins to help keep our community strong.

Galveston is well on its way to becoming a Blue Zone. The island has invested in infrastructure that promotes natural movement. The island’s walkable historic neighborhoods, miles of beachfront paths, and parks encourage residents and visitors to stay active. Efforts to improve bike lanes and pedestrian access continue to expand opportunities for physical activity. Organizations like the Galveston County Food Bank and local farmers’ markets have made strides in improving access to fresh, healthy food. Additionally, community gardens, like the one at McGuire-Dent Recreation Center, provide fresh produce and foster a sense of community.

Galveston is home to numerous community events and social groups that facilitate connections among residents. From the monthly Galveston ArtWalks to neighborhood cleanup initiatives, the city encourages participation and collaboration. Galveston has embraced the importance of mental health, offering services through organizations like the Family Service Center. Programs focused on mindfulness, yoga, and stress reduction are becoming more prevalent. Environmental health plays a significant role in overall well-being, and Galveston has launched several initiatives to preserve its natural beauty.

For example, the Surfrider Foundation Galveston Chapter organizes beach cleanups and advocates for sustainable practices to protect the island’s ecosystem. Galveston’s strong sense of identity as a historic and coastal community offers residents a unique connection to their homes. Many residents participate in preservation efforts, such as the Turtle Island Restoration Network, and take pride in contributing to the island’s legacy.

GALVESTON IS WELL ON ITS WAY TO BECOMING A BLUE ZONE.

While Galveston has made significant strides, challenges remain. Access to healthcare, particularly for under-served populations, needs improvement. The island’s geography also poses risks, as hurricanes and rising sea levels threaten infrastructure and resources. However, these challenges present opportunities for innovative solutions. Galveston has the potential to integrate sustainability and resilience into its Blue Zone aspirations, creating a model for other coastal communities.

Becoming a Blue Zone is no small feat and requires systemic changes, community buy-in, and sustained efforts. The island is on track to foster a healthier, more connected, and vibrant community by aligning its initiatives with Blue Zone principles. As Galveston charts its course, it’s worth remembering that becoming a Blue Zone isn’t just about extending life—it’s about enhancing the quality of life. Whether you’re strolling along the Seawall, enjoying fresh Gulf seafood, or participating in a neighborhood cleanup, you’re contributing to a vision where longevity and joy go hand in hand.

Exercise and outdoor activities keep Galvestonians young.

BLUE ZONE STATE

ORIGINAL BLUE ZONE REGIONS

LOMA LINDA, CALIFORNIA

NICOYA PENINSULA, COSTA RICA

WE THINK GALVESTON IS READY TO BECOME AN OFFICIAL BLUE ZONE. TO HELP US GET STARTED SCAN THE QR CODE AND LEARN MORE ABOUT THE BLUE ZONES PROJECT.

IKARIA, GREECE

SARDINIA, ITALY

STATE OF MIND THINK BLUE:

PLANT-BASED DIETS: DIETS IN BLUE ZONES ARE LARGELY PLANT-BASED, RICH IN VEGETABLES, FRUITS, LEGUMES, WHOLE GRAINS, AND HEALTHY FATS, WITH LIMITED CONSUMPTION OF MEAT AND PROCESSED FOODS.

REGULAR PHYSICAL ACTIVITY: DAILY LIFE IN THESE REGIONS NATURALLY INCORPORATES PHYSICAL ACTIVITY, SUCH AS WALKING, GARDENING, OR MANUAL LABOR, RATHER THAN STRUCTURED EXERCISE ROUTINES.

STRONG SOCIAL CONNECTIONS: CLOSE-KNIT COMMUNITIES AND STRONG FAMILY BONDS PROVIDE EMOTIONAL SUPPORT AND A SENSE OF BELONGING.

OKINAWA, JAPAN

STRESS MANAGEMENT: RESIDENTS PRIORITIZE PRACTICES LIKE MEDITATION, PRAYER, NAPS, OR SPENDING TIME IN NATURE TO REDUCE STRESS.

MODERATE CALORIE INTAKE: MANY FOLLOW A PRINCIPLE OF EATING UNTIL THEY ARE 80% FULL, AVOIDING OVEREATING.

MODERATE ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION: IN SOME BLUE ZONES, PEOPLE DRINK ALCOHOL, SUCH AS WINE, IN MODERATION, OFTEN AS PART OF SOCIAL GATHERINGS.

PURPOSE-DRIVEN LIVES: HAVING A SENSE OF PURPOSE, OFTEN REFERRED TO AS "IKIGAI" (IN JAPAN) OR "PLAN DE VIDA" (IN COSTA RICA), PROVIDES MOTIVATION AND EMOTIONAL WELL-BEING.

PEOPLE PEOPLE OF GALVESTON

WHAT FREE RESOURCES DOES GALVESTON OFFER THAT PROMOTE HEALTH AND WELLNESS?

JACKIE CASTANEDA

Galveston is a hub of outdoor activities, community events, and wellness resources that cater to a variety of interests. Its public parks, like Menard Park and Kempner Park, offer scenic walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas for relaxation and recreation, while the Galveston Island State Park provides opportunities for hiking, fishing, and birdwatching. The city’s beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying beach sports, offering a yearround escape to the coast. Additionally, local farmer's markets promote healthy living with fresh produce, free samples, and nutrition education.

The community thrives on its inclusive and enriching events, such as free health fairs, festivals, and workshops covering topics like gardening and meditation. Resources like the Rosenberg Library provide access to books, digital tools, art exhibits, and educational programs, while community health clinics offer affordable care and support groups for mental health and recovery. Galveston also encourages connection through volunteer opportunities with organizations like Galveston Urban Ministries and citysponsored recreational activities, including exercise classes and sports leagues, fostering a strong sense of community and personal fulfillment.

DANIELLE VANETTA

LISA BITTINGER

Galveston Island

Running co, we offer a group run and walk every Saturday morning at 6:30 AM here on the island. This activity is free and anyone can join, all distances and paces welcome.

We also offer free clinics and resources to the post-op community. These clinics are put on by UTMB and help teach people how to recover from a surgery and injury with running and walking. We also work with many non-profits on the island to support the community through running and walking.

What interests me about Blue Zones isn’t just the diet and exercise aspect; but also the social and behavioral one. Degenerative disease goes down and longevity increases when the elderly are integrated in their communities, both within families and the community at large.

My mom moved down from Upstate New York three years ago and while we were planning on buying her a home in Fish Village, we’ve all decided on her staying and living with us. We are building an apartment for her over our garage to keep her as close as we can. While our three small children will miss her very much (6, 4, and 10 months) they are excited for backyard sleepovers.

My mom (67) is also extremely active in the church parish community, as well as physically active, doing Tai Chi and water aerobics. After working as a nurse for over 35 years, I was worried she’d be bored. She's the busiest she’s ever been! And I’m so thankful for that.

Coolture: Arts + Music

Arts, music and culture bring communities together by encapsulating the soul of the people. For a Blue Zone to thrive it must bloom from within and that’s what the island’s artist are all about.

“A long healthy life is not accident.” - Dan Buettner

FEATURED ARTIST: J. LEE ART CREATIONS

Galveston Island artist J. Lee is a vibrant storyteller whose work reflects the beauty and complexity of life. Drawing inspiration from her surroundings, personal experiences, and the warmth of family, J. Lee weaves emotion and meaning into every piece she creates. Her signature style is as distinctive as it is relatable, encouraging viewers to connect with their own stories and embrace authenticity.

Through her art, J. Lee invites others to explore their creativity and reimagine the world around them. Whether capturing the serene simplicity of coastal life or the intricate layers of human emotion, her work resonates deeply with those who encounter it.

Galveston is no stranger to unique voices, but few bands embody the island's eclectic spirit like Come See My Dead Person. At the heart of the band are members Matt, Mike, Noe, Roy, and Chris, who have roots in many different genres including death metal and harder rock. These influences are prevalent in the band's sound as well as drawing from artists like Tom Waits, Pink Floyd, and Dax Riggs. The band’s name, Come See My Dead Person, was born from their early days as a death metal band and reflects their love for Halloween and dark humor. Come See My Dead Person is committed to creating memorable experiences for their audience.

The band’s journey hasn’t been without its setbacks. A hurricane devastated their Dickinson home and rehearsal space, destroying equipment and forcing the group to take a hiatus. But like their name suggests, Come See My Dead Person is a band that thrives on revival. With renewed determination and the support of a close-knit team of musicians, managers, and collaborators, the band reemerged stronger than ever.

The band’s lineup reflects their eclectic musical tastes. Their mandolin player moonlights as a punk rock drummer, while their guitarist channels David Gilmour’s ethereal tones. Their drummer pulls inspiration from the Dave Matthews Band. From the Allman Brothers to stoner rock bands like Elder, their influences are vast and varied. The future is bright for Come See My Dead Person. They have several upcoming gigs, including a birthday bash at The Kickback Bar in Houston and shows at iconic Texas venues like Dan Electro’s and The Far Out Lounge. They're also planning something special for Mardi Gras in Galveston.

Fans can follow the band on Instagram, where they share updates, show flyers, and behind-the-scenes content. Their music is available on Spotify, and their YouTube channel offers full-length performance videos.

FOLLOW THE BAND ON INSTAGRAM

CATCH THEM LIVE TUES. MARCH 4 AT MARMO

PULSE

ART WEEK GALVESTON

Jan 6 - 12

JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2025 CALENDAR OF

EVENTS

Galveston's Historic Downtown Cultural Arts District

The week long event will feature visual art exhibits, gallery openings, literary presentations, culinary events, musical performances, fashion shows, and downtown discovery tours. Learn more at ArtWeekGalveston.com

Ticket prices vary

AIN'T TOO PROUD: THE LIFE AND TIME OF THE TEMPTATIONS

Jan 17 - 18

The Grand Opera 1894 Opera House

Ain't Too Proud is the electrifying new musical that follows The Temptations' extraordinary journey from the streets of Detroit to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Ticket prices vary

2ND ANNUAL GALVESTON ISLAND COUNTRY MUSIC FEST

Jan 25 | 6 PM - 11 PM

Galveston Island Convention Center

Grab your cowboy hats and mark your calendars! This highly anticipated event promises an evening of unforgettable country music and Texas charm.

Admission: $200+

LYLE

LOVETT AND HIS ACOUSTIC GROUP

Feb 4 | 7:30 PM

The Grand Opera 1894 Opera House

The Texas-based musician fuses elements of country, swing, jazz, folk, gospel and blues in a manner that breaks down barriers.

Ticket prices vary

COME SEE MY DEAD PERSON

March 4 | Immediately Following Fat Tuesday Parade

MarMo Cafe & Lounge

Music, light shows, and local art at in partnership with the La Izquierda Surf and Music Festival (coming May 3rd and 4th).

Admission: Free and open to the public

MARDI GRAS parades

THE FUNKY UPTOWN UMBRELLA BRIGADE, IN MEMORY OF MARY PREGLER

Feb 21 | 8:30 PM

Downtown Entertainment District

The Funky Uptown Umbrella Brigade has been breaking World Records for having the most decorated umbrellas in a single parade since 2011. Over the years, fans from all around Texas have traveled to Mardi Gras! Galveston to claim a spot. FREE ADMISSION with a decorated umbrella.

KREWE OF GAMBRINUS PARADE

Feb 22 | 6 PM

Seawall Boulevard to 25th Street

Krewe of Gambrinus launches 14 floats, and just as many marching bands, tossing over 600,000 beads and trinkets. The Krewe of Gambrinus, is a not-forprofit organization, chartered for the support of tourism and underprivileged children in Galveston, Harris, and surrounding counties.

KNIGHTS OF MOMUS GRAND NIGHT PARADE

March 1 | 6 PM

Seawall Boulevard to 25th Street

Galveston's largest and best parade! The Grand Night Parade features a magnificent fleet of colorful floats, marching bands from all over the state, dignitaries, and more. Meet-up in the median on 25th street and pop-in to your local favorite house parties.

SHRINERS CHILDRENS TEXAS & SUNSHINE KIDS PARADE

March 2 | 12 PM

Downtown Entertainment District

Hundreds of Sunshine Kids and Shiners children, along with their families parade the streets of Downtown Galveston inviting locals and tourists alike to revel in the joys of childhood.

FAT TUESDAY PARADE

March 4 | 6:30 PM

Downtown Entertainment District

Galveston locals' favorite! The all Krewe parade will feature marching bands, dance teams, and participating Krewes in the final hours of Mardi Gras Galveston 2025. FREE and open to the public.

JOIN THE CULTURE CLASH KREWE AT THE MARMO CAFE AFTER THE PARADE

DRINK UP

GREEN REFRESHER

Cucumbers - Kiwi - Spinach - KaleLime - Mint - Gala Apples

May help promote gut - eye - bone - brain - skin health, hydrating, aids in colds, iron absorption and weight loss, chronic disease prevention, potassium, antioxidants, removes free radicals from the body, lower blood sugar

JUST BEET IT

Beets - Gala Apples - Kale

Strawberries - Blueberries

May help promote gut-brain heart health, anti- inflammatory, strengthens bones, boost metabolism, antioxidants, improves endurance

SUMMER SQUEEZE

Pineapple - Gala Apples - Pear

May help promote gut health, boosts immunity; ease arthritis

GET THEM NOW AT MINI JUICE BOX 532 23RD STREET, BY LOLO KAI

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