Blue Star Museums | National Endowment for the Arts
Blue Star Museums is a partnership between the National Endowment for the Arts and Blue Star Families, in collaboration with the Department of War and museums across America, offering free admission to the nation’s active-duty military personnel and their families, including National Guard and Reserve. The 2026 program runs from Armed Forces Day, Saturday, May 16, 2026, through Labor Day, Monday, September 7, 2026.
We would like to thank our partners, sponsors and contributors for making our July, August and September programs possible. These include: Humanities Texas, the state affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities, Consulado de Carrera de Mexico en Brownsville, Revival of Cultural Arts (ROCA), and Nydia O. Tapia-Gonzales.
Museum After Dark: Heritage Museum
When: Friday, July 10, 2026
Time: 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Where: Heritage Museum, 1325 E. Washington Street
Cost: Free
Join us for special Second Friday evening hours! Bring the whole family to “Museum After Dark” and experience the Heritage Museum in a whole new light. Don’t miss this chance to explore the museum after hours! We’ll be open from 6–8 PM for an evening of history, fun, and community.
Second Saturday: ¡Bailamos! Exhibit Craft Program
When: Saturday, July 11, 2026
Time: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Where: Historic Brownsville Museum / Yturria Education Center, 641 E. Madison Street
Cost: Free
“Second Saturday” is family-friendly crafting event that invites children and adults to get creative together. Held on the second Saturday of each month, this hands-on program features fun art and craft activities inspired by history, culture, and museum exhibits. Whether you’re making a keepsake, exploring a new artistic technique or simply spending quality time with family, “Second Saturday” offers a welcoming space to learn, create, and connect. All ages are encouraged to participate – no crafting experience required! For the month of July, we are highlighting the ¡Bailamos! Exhibit currently on display at the Costumes of the Americas Museum. This program is supported by Humanities Texas, the state affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities.
Historical Happy Hour: Karaoke
When: Friday, July 17, 2026
Time: 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Where: Historic Brownsville Museum / Yturria Education Center, 641 E. Madison Street
Cost: Free for BHA members, $15 if you RSVP and pay before the event, $20 at the door. Sorry no refunds. RSVP by calling (956) 548-1313.
Have some fun and belt out your favorite tunes at our Karaoke Historical Happy Hour! Whether you’re an amateur singer, future superstar or just want to cheer on your friends with a beverage in hand, it’s sure to be a night of entertainment. This event is open to the public and for adults 21 years and older.
Museum After Dark: Costumes of the Americas Museum
When: Friday, August 7, 2026
Time: 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Where: Costumes of the Americas Museum, 1004 E. Sixth Street
Cost: Free
Join us for special First Friday evening hours! Bring the whole family to “Museum After Dark” and experience the Costumes of the Americas Museum in a whole new light. Don’t miss this chance to explore the museum after hours! We’ll be open from 6–8 PM for an evening of history, fun, and community.
