🐎 Derby Day Fun, Willie Nelson, & Apraxia Awareness in NB

April 29, 2026

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

Happy Wednesday! We’re right in that sweet spot of the week where weekend plans start coming together, and there’s already a couple things worth locking in early. If you’re out and about today, make sure to stop by the Civic Center to check out the FREE Senior Expo & Veterans Resource Fair. We’ll be set up at Booth #600, so come say hey!

Here’s what’s happening around town right now…

If you’re 55+ and looking to stay active, informed, and connected, this is your kind of event. The New Braunfels Senior Expo is happening today at the Civic/Convention Center from 9 am to 3 pm, bringing together health and wellness resources, financial experts, local vendors, and community organizations all in one place.

From helpful services to fun finds, there’s plenty to explore, plus hourly giveaways happening throughout the day to keep things exciting.

Make sure to come by Booth #600 to say hi to us.

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Live music, Southern food, and all-day race vibes this Saturday

If you’re looking for something fun and a little different, the 4th Annual Derby Day at The Villa is bringing the full experience this Saturday. From stylish outfits to live music and classic race-day energy, this event is all about leaning into the moment and having a good time.

There’s a full lineup of live performances throughout the day, plus Southern comfort food, contests for Best Hat and Best Dressed, and races happening all day leading up to the Kentucky Derby main event. Whether you’re going all out or just showing up for the vibe, it’s one of those events that makes your day feel like something.

Willie Nelson & Family performing live at Whitewater Amphitheater

This is one of those shows you don’t overthink, you just go. Willie Nelson and Family are performing live at Whitewater Amphitheater this Saturday night, bringing that unmistakable sound to a venue that already feels like peak Texas. Some tickets still remain at this time!

Whether you’ve seen him before or this is your first time, it hits different in a setting like this.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 A FAMILY DAY YOU’LL ACTUALLY ENJOY

If you’ve been looking for an easy win with the kids, this is it. Mayfest is happening Saturday, May 9, and it’s packed with all the stuff they actually get excited about. Think train rides, inflatables, crafts, face painting, and plenty of space to run around.

While the kids stay busy, you’ve got food, drinks, and live music right there, so everyone wins.

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WHAT’S HAPPENING AROUND TOWN?

Here are some of the events we’re most excited about over the next few days:

WEDNESDAY
🧶 Sit & Stitch at New Braunfels Public Library (9:00 AM)
🎉 New Braunfels Senior Expo + Veterans Resource Expo at New Braunfels Civic/Convention Center (9:00 AM)
🌳 Fischer Park Family Storytime at Fischer Park (9:30 AM)
📱 Device Advice at New Braunfels Public Library (1:00 PM)
🍔 Burger Night at Happy Cow Bar (5:00 PM)
🎭 Klasses In Drama at Circle Arts Theatre (5:30 PM)
🎨 Blue Ridge Mountains at Painting with a Twist (6:00 PM)
🛍️ Humpday Market at Gruene Grove (6:00 PM)
🎤 Singo Bingo & Karaoke w/ DJ Jody at Freiheit Country Store (6:00 PM)
🎵 Xtreme Music Bingo at Watering Hole Saloon (7:00 PM)

THURSDAY
☕ Coworking, Coffee, Pilates, & More at The Canopy Collective (9:00 AM)
🎮 Teen Time at New Braunfels Public Library (5:00 PM)
🎸 Tony Taylor at The Grapevine in Gruene (5:00 PM)
🐄 Spring Highland Cow at Painting with a Twist (6:00 PM)
🎶 Songwriter’s Night at The Redbird Listening Room (6:00 PM)
🎤 Manzy Lowry Band Live at Gruene Grove (7:00 PM)
🎸 The Wallflowers at Gruene Hall (8:00 PM)
🎶 Sabrina Estevez & The Blue Feather Band Live at Watering Hole Saloon (8:00 PM)

FRIDAY
👶 Infant Massage with SJRC at New Braunfels Public Library (10:00 AM)
🎨 Open Studio (DIY Experience) at Painting with a Twist (2:00 PM)
🍻 Friday Afternoon Club at Gruene Hall (4:00 PM)
🎸 Andrew Kreitz at The Grapevine in Gruene (5:00 PM)
🌌 Cosmic Riverfront Paint Night at Painting with a Twist (7:00 PM)
🎶 Mando Saenz at The Redbird Listening Room (7:30 PM)
🎤 Los Rangerz at Happy Cow Bar & Grill (8:30 PM)
🚂 Fast Movin’ Train Live at Watering Hole Saloon (8:30 PM)

Thinking about building a custom home? Meet Bandit Homes, the local home builders doing things the right way.

Behind Bandit Homes are Brady and Tyler, a local New Braunfels team focused on building homes that actually make sense for how people live. From smart layouts to durable materials, everything is designed with intention, not just for looks, but for long-term quality.

Brady leads the financial and development side, while Tyler is hands-on in construction, making sure every detail is done right from the ground up. It’s a balance of planning and execution that shows up in every home they build.

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AWARENESS GROWS FOR CHILDHOOD APRAXIA IN NEW BRAUNFELS

City proclamation highlights a condition affecting local families

The City of New Braunfels has officially proclaimed May 14 as Apraxia Awareness Day, bringing attention to a condition that impacts many children and families. Childhood apraxia of speech is a neurological disorder that affects a child’s ability to coordinate the movements needed for speech.

By recognizing this day, the city is helping raise awareness, support families, and encourage understanding around a condition that often goes unnoticed. It’s a meaningful step toward building a more informed and supportive community.

🐝 BUZZ AROUND TOWN

New Braunfels Fast-Tracks Affordable Housing Projects
The city is pushing forward three major housing developments aimed at easing the local housing shortage. Plans include hundreds of new units, upgrades to existing housing, and a mix of workforce and low-income options.

Broadway-Themed Concert Coming to New Braunfels
The New Braunfels Community Chorale is set to perform a Broadway-themed concert this Sunday, bringing classic show tunes and live performance energy to the local stage.

NBISD Announces Summer Driver’s Ed Sessions
New Braunfels ISD is offering multiple summer Driver’s Ed sessions from May through July, giving students a chance to get licensed and road-ready.

Community Shows Up for Children’s Advocacy Event
Local residents gathered for a pinwheel ceremony to raise awareness for child abuse prevention, showing strong support for protecting children across Comal County.

Kops & Kids Safety Picnic Returns This June
The New Braunfels Police Department is bringing back its free Kops & Kids Safety Picnic on June 4, featuring food, games, safety activities, and giveaways for families.

WEATHER FORECAST 

Wednesday: High: 82º | Low: 63º | 25% chance of precipitation

Thursday: High: 75º | Low: 60º | 25% chance of precipitation

Friday: High: 62º | Low: 53º | 95% chance of precipitation

Burn Ban: OFF

Water Restrictions: Stage 2 (In Stage 2, watering with a sprinkler or irrigation system is allowed one day per week based on the last digit of your address BEFORE 10:00 a.m. and AFTER 8:00 p.m.)

Texas has one of the highest uninsured rates in the country, and for many families, that means putting off care or dealing with rising costs and limited options. The good news is there are still flexible, affordable plans out there if you know where to look.

Our local partner Penn Mallery helps families and small business owners find custom PPO plans that actually fit their needs, not just a one-size-fits-all option.

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HALF-OFF CRUISES + FREE PERKS? YES, REALLY

If a trip has been sitting on your “soon” list, this might be the push. Right now, our partner Royce Staley of Cruise Planners can help you score cruise deals starting around $359 per person, with up to 50% off plus extras like unlimited drinks, specialty dining, Wi-Fi, and even onboard credit on select sailings.

These aren’t boring trips either. Think live shows, great food, ocean views, and plenty to do whether you want to relax or stay busy. Some sailings even include free spots for a third and fourth guest, making it an easy group or family option.

Thanks!

That’s everything we have for today’s email. Remember to come see us at the Senior Expo today. And for those of you who signed up for our Dinner Club, we hope you have a great time tonight!

If you enjoyed this edition, share it with a friend who’d love a daily dose of New Braunfels too.

Until next time,

— The New Braunfels Life Team

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