Spark! Experiences: Alpine Calendar of Events

A Museum on Main Street exhibition organized by the Smithsonian Institution. Inspired by Places of Invention, an exhibition developed by the Smithsonian’s Lemelson Center for the Study of Invention and Innovation. Installed in the Education Room at the Museum of the Big Bend.

Healing Under the Stars features 12 large-scale astrophotography prints created by veterans participating in the CreatiVets Astrophotography Program. On display at the Alpine Public Library, the exhibition explores the connection between creativity, science, healing, and the night sky. Through art and astronomy, the program supports veterans through stress relief, personal expression, and community connection, and with a special focus on reaching Native American veterans through themes of identity, ancestry, and shared connection to the stars.

Step inside Big Bend Saddlery and experience the craftsmanship behind traditional West Texas saddlemaking. Visitors can watch live daily demonstrations showcasing the tools, techniques, and artistry used to create custom handmade saddles and leather goods. Rooted in ranching culture and generations of practical innovation, these demonstrations highlight a living tradition that continues to shape the identity of Far West Texas.

New Exhibit – North Hallway | Jodie P. Harris was a soldier who was stationed along the Big Bend border in 1916-17, and hand-drew a series of postcards that he mailed back to his family in Mineral Wells. Texas. We have selected and enlarged some of those postcards, which are now on display in the North Hallway. Jodie P. Harris was one of the first people to call for the creation of Big Bend National Park.

As part of the Smithsonian’s SPARK! Places of Innovation exhibition, the Museum of the Big Bend will feature selections from its permanent history exhibits as the local companion exhibit. Exploring the people, industries, cultures, and ideas that shaped Far West Texas, the exhibit highlights the innovation, resilience, and ingenuity that helped communities survive and thrive in the Big Bend region — from early transportation and ranching to border culture, trade, art, and everyday life in a rugged landscape.

The Art of the Camera: Glenn Burgess Collection features photographs, cameras, and field equipment from the collection of Glenn Burgess, an Alpine photographer known for documenting the early years of Big Bend National Park and the people and landscapes of Far West Texas during the 1940s and 1950s. The exhibit explores both the artistry and evolving technology of photography, offering a glimpse into how images of the Big Bend were captured during a transformative period in the region’s history.

Go back in time, enjoying small-town pro ball in beautiful, historic Kokernot Field, called “The Best Little Ballpark in Texas…or Anywhere” by Sports Illustrated magazine.

Every Tuesday in July from 8 to 10 PM, bring your own chair, pack your refreshments, and settle in under some of the darkest skies in Texas for an evening of live music featuring bands. Sponsored by 5th Street Gallery, Front Street Books, Javelinas, and Alpine Pool & Spa. This a celebration not just of live music, but of Alpine itself, creativity, history, and community!

July 7 – The Latecomers

July 14 – Evie Dorsey, Ted Arbogast & Steven Bennack

July 21 – Big Bend Community Band

July 28 – The Swifts

No tickets, just come and enjoy!

Join us for the opening reception with food, drinks, and live music, and then head out into Alpine’s Independence Day celebration. It’s the best possible way to start your summer!

Join Ranger Charlie Ewing for an evening exploring telescopes and the incredible night skies of Far West Texas. Learn how telescopes work, what celestial objects to look for, and why the region is home to some of the darkest skies in the country.

Regional roundtables are events that include presentations, walking tours of host downtowns, and networking with other downtown professionals and champions. Click here to register.

The Archives of the Big Bend 50th Anniversary Shindig is the official birthday bash celebrating 50 years of the Archives of the Big Bend. It is a collaborative event between Historic Alpine and the Archives of the Big Bend (Sul Ross State University), open to the entire community. The evening will feature an educational conversation and Q&A focused on the Archives’ role in preserving our regional identity, followed by cake and champagne.

Come take a tour see how radio is done and record a greeting that may be played on air!

Summer programs at Alpine Public Library. The Fossil Dig with Big Bend Ranch State Park is for ages 5-12.

“Amidst a crisis in Boquillas, Mexico, bold Texas ranchers hatch a risky plan to aid neighbors. Indomitable Joan and Caroline race to the Rio Grande, danger lurking. Their unstoppable spirit proves friendship’s strength in adversity.”

MoBB summer camp – advance registration required

Summer programs at Alpine Public Library. Astronomy Adventures with McDonald Observatory is for all ages.

Part of Viva Big Bend music festival – Panel Discussion: local luthiers and musicians talking about craft, materials, sound, and how West Texas influences their work

Summer programs at Alpine Public Library. Astronomy Adventures with McDonald Observatory is for all ages.

Summer programs at Alpine Public Library. Touch a Truck/End of Summer Reading Celebration is for all ages.

Artist Ramon Deanda connects Alpine and Presidio through a pair of sister murals celebrating the culture, history, and spirit of Far West Texas. Community members of all ages are invited to participate in the creation of the mural facing Alpine Elementary School.

Discover how communication technology has transformed life in Far West Texas. Enjoy an open house social cocktail hour, and a video presentation showcasing the history of BBT and the innovations that have connected Big Bend communities for generations.

The Big Bend Ranch Rodeo celebrates the skill, teamwork, and ingenuity of working ranch life in Far West Texas. Rooted in everyday ranch work, rodeo events highlight generations of innovation, adaptation, and practical knowledge developed to thrive in one of the most rugged landscapes in the country.