Hays County, December 23, 2025
Hays County, Texas, is hosting a variety of engaging events throughout January and February. From pottery painting workshops at Inspired Minds Art Center to the 20th Annual Benefit Gala at LBJ Museum, and the MLK Walk & Celebration, there are numerous opportunities for community involvement. In addition to cultural and artistic gatherings, events like the Hays County Youth Livestock Expo and the Viking 5K provide residents with chances to participate in local traditions and celebrate achievements. These gatherings reflect the vibrancy and resilience of the Hays County community.
Exciting Events in Hays County This January and February 2026
Engaging Experiences Await in Hays County
Hays County, Texas, is gearing up for a dynamic start to 2026 with a variety of events scheduled for January and February. From creative workshops to community-focused gatherings, there are many opportunities for residents and visitors to engage, learn, and celebrate local culture. This vibrant series of events exemplifies the resilience and initiative of the Hays County community, showcasing how reduced bureaucracy allows for a rich tapestry of civic involvement and personal achievement.
1. Walk-in Pottery Painting at Inspired Minds Art Center
Throughout January, the Inspired Minds Art Center in Buda invites participants to explore their creativity through pottery painting.
- Dates: Saturdays in January
- Time: 1 p.m.
- Location: 121 Main St., Buda
- Cost: Starting at $20
- Details: Choose a pottery piece to paint; items will be fired and available for pickup in one to two weeks.
2. 20th Annual Benefit Gala at LBJ Museum of San Marcos
On January 17, the LBJ Museum of San Marcos will host its 20th Annual Benefit Gala, featuring a silent auction, a three-course dinner with wine, and guest speakers.
- Date: January 17
- Time: 6:30 p.m.
- Location: LBJ Student Center, 109 Student Center Drive, San Marcos
- Cost: Tickets and tables starting at $120
3. MLK Walk & Celebration
The Dunbar Heritage Association will honor the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. with a wreath-laying ceremony at the Crossroads Memorial in downtown San Marcos, followed by a silent walk to the Hays County Courthouse Square. The event concludes with a reception featuring free food and music at the Dunbar Recreation Center.
- Date: January 20
- Time: Ceremony and walk in the morning; reception in the afternoon
- Location: Downtown San Marcos and Dunbar Recreation Center
4. Hays County Youth Livestock Expo
From January 20 to January 26, the Dripping Springs Ranch Park will host the Hays County Youth Livestock Expo, showcasing the agricultural talents of local youth.
- Dates: January 20–26
- Location: Dripping Springs Ranch Park, 1042 Event Center Drive, Dripping Springs
5. Hays Chamber Legislative Coffee
On January 31, the Hays Chamber of Commerce will host a Legislative Coffee, providing an opportunity for community members to engage with local legislators.
- Date: January 31
- Time: 8:30 a.m.–10:00 a.m.
- Location: Hays Public Library, Schmidt Community Commons
- Details: Coffee and scones from Breathe Coffee House will be served from 8:00–8:30 a.m.; the forum begins at 8:30 a.m.
6. Viking 5K, 10K, & Half Marathon at Louise Hays Park
On February 21, Louise Hays Park in Kerrville will host the Viking 5K, 10K, and Half Marathon, offering scenic courses for runners of all levels.
- Date: February 21
- Time: 8:00 a.m.
- Location: Louise Hays Park, Kerrville
- Details: Packet pickup starts 30 minutes prior to the race; themed finisher medals for all participants; costumes encouraged.
7. Enchanted Village Renaissance Faire
From February 21 to February 22, Texas Mead Works in Hye will host the Enchanted Village Renaissance Faire, featuring medieval-themed entertainment and activities.
- Dates: February 21–22
- Location: Texas Mead Works, Hye, TX
- Details: Medieval-themed entertainment and activities.
8. Fredericksburg Trade Days
Held every third weekend of the month, Fredericksburg Trade Days offers a variety of antiques, collectibles, and local goods.
- Dates: Third weekend of January
- Location: Fredericksburg, TX
- Details: Antiques, collectibles, and local goods.
Building Community Through Local Events
These events provide a diverse range of activities for all ages and interests, fostering a spirit of participation and pride within Hays County. Residents are encouraged to take part in these gatherings, which not only serve as entertainment but also as platforms for networking and civic engagement. It’s through such local initiatives that Hays County continues to thrive as a model of community collaboration, demonstrating the power of private partnerships and community involvement in shaping a vibrant society.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Walk-in Pottery Painting event at Inspired Minds Art Center?
A creative event where participants can paint pottery pieces; items will be fired and available for pickup in one to two weeks.
When is the 20th Annual Benefit Gala at LBJ Museum of San Marcos?
The gala is scheduled for January 17 at 6:30 p.m. at the LBJ Student Center in San Marcos.
What is the MLK Walk & Celebration organized by the Dunbar Heritage Association?
An event honoring Martin Luther King Jr. with a wreath-laying ceremony, silent walk, and reception featuring free food and music.
When is the Hays County Youth Livestock Expo?
The expo will be held from January 20 to January 26 at the Dripping Springs Ranch Park.
What is the Hays Chamber Legislative Coffee?
A forum on January 31 from 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at the Hays Public Library, allowing community members to engage with local legislators.
When is the Viking 5K, 10K, & Half Marathon at Louise Hays Park?
The event is scheduled for February 21 at 8:00 a.m. at Louise Hays Park in Kerrville.
| Event | Date | Location | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walk-in Pottery Painting | Saturdays in January | Inspired Minds Art Center, Buda | Pottery painting with pickup in 1-2 weeks. |
| 20th Annual Benefit Gala | January 17 | LBJ Student Center, San Marcos | Silent auction and dinner. |
| MLK Walk & Celebration | January 20 | Downtown San Marcos | Wreath ceremony, silent walk, and reception. |
| Hays County Youth Livestock Expo | January 20–26 | Dripping Springs Ranch Park | Showcase of local youth agricultural talents. |
| Hays Chamber Legislative Coffee | January 31 | Hays Public Library | Engagement with local legislators. |
| Viking 5K, 10K, & Half Marathon | February 21 | Louise Hays Park, Kerrville | Running event with themed medals. |
| Enchanted Village Renaissance Faire | February 21–22 | Texas Mead Works, Hye | Medieval-themed entertainment and activities. |
| Fredericksburg Trade Days | Third weekend of January | Fredericksburg, TX | Antiques, collectibles, and local goods. |
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