Ice Cream Capital of Texas Archives

8 Ways To Stay Cool Around Brenham

Summer heat in Texas is no joke—but don’t sweat it! We’ve gathered our favorite ways to chill out and stay refreshed around Brenham & Washington County while the temperature is rising.

1. Ice Cream—of course!

young boy eating ice cream and smiling at Blue Bell Creameries — Blue Bell Creameries, Brenham

Nothing says summer relief like a delicious scoop of Blue Bell Ice Cream. Right here in Brenham, proudly known as the Ice Cream Capital of Texas, you can indulge in some of the best ice cream in the country. Visit their museum, explore their charming Country Store, or just savor your favorite flavor and cool down the sweetest way possible!

Want more options for a scoop? You’re in luck—there are plenty of other local spots around town where you can enjoy Blue Bell. Check out our guide to 7 Places in Brenham to Get a Scoop of Blue Bell Ice Cream to make sure you don’t miss any of the sweet stops!

2. Splash Around at Blue Bell Aquatic Center

The sunset over the Blue Bell Aquatic Center — Blue Bell Aquatic Center, Brenham

Dive into fun at the Blue Bell Aquatic Center! With multiple pools, water slides, and play areas, it’s the perfect spot for kids and adults alike to beat the heat. Bring your sunscreen, pack a picnic, and plan to spend the day enjoying this refreshing local favorite!

3. Henderson Park Splash Pad

Children play in a colorful splash pad on a sunny day, with water jets spraying and large musical-themed structures creating a fun and vibrant atmosphere at Henderson Park in Brenham, Texas. — Splash Pad at Henderson Park, Brenham

For a cool-down that’s free, head to Henderson Park’s splash pad. The kids will love splashing around in the fountains while you relax nearby. Pack a lunch to make it an enjoyable family outing beneath the shaded picnic areas!

4. Cool Off at Lake Somerville

Sunset over Lake Somerville, with the sun casting warm orange and pink hues across the water. Silhouettes of trees frame the view, and the sky is reflected in a calm body of water in the foreground. — Lake Somerville, Somerville

If you’re looking for a classic summer lake day, Lake Somerville is just the spot. Go for a swim, paddle a kayak, or relax in the shade along the shoreline. With multiple parks and recreation areas surrounding the lake, it’s easy to find your ideal way to unwind. Pack a cooler, bring your floaties, and spend the day lakeside!

5. Chill Out in Downtown Brenham

Must Be Heaven, Downtown Brenham

Take refuge from the heat by exploring the vibrant shops and restaurants of Downtown Brenham. Grab an iced coffee, lemonade, ice cream or craft cocktail at one of our local cafes or bars, and savor it in air-conditioned comfort!

6. Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site

One man herding a longhorn and the other man is behind them walking. Two small, historic home are in the background with lots of trees and greenery. Washington-on-the-Brazos. — Washington-on-the-Brazos, Washington

Nature lovers, don’t miss the chance to cool off at Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site. Find shade among the trees, stroll along breezy walking trails, and enjoy stunning views of the Brazos River. It’s the perfect spot to unwind, relax, and escape the heat in nature.

7. Visit Our Local Wineries or Brewery

The modern, two-story tasting room at Chapelton Vineyards glows at sunset, with large glass windows, a stone chimney, and guests enjoying wine on the upper deck. The winery sits on a spacious green lawn surrounded by trees and a peaceful hill country setting. — Chapelton Vineyards, Washington

Nothing cools you down like sipping a crisp wine or cold craft beer in a picturesque setting! Wineries like 36 North Vineyard, Chapelton Vineyards, Texas Star Winery, and Haak Wines offer refreshing tastings in cool comfort. Or, if you’re more of a beer lover, head over to Brazos Valley Brewery for a chilled pint in their laid-back taproom or shaded beer garden. Whether you’re sipping indoors or under the trees, it’s a relaxing way to beat the heat.

8. Explore Independence

A woman wearing sunglasses, a black tank top, and denim shorts walks her happy, dark brown dog through a lush, flower-filled pathway at the Antique Rose Emporium. Hanging baskets of colorful flowers frame the archway overhead on a bright, sunny day. — Antique Rose Emporium, Independence

Take a short scenic drive to the charming historic community of Independence. Stroll through the peaceful grounds of Old Baylor Park, where shaded walking paths and historic ruins offer a quiet retreat from the sun. While you’re there, stop by the Antique Rose Emporium—a stunning garden center where you can wander through fragrant blooms and take in the colorful, shaded landscapes. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the outdoors without melting in the heat!

Stay cool, Brenham—we’ll see you out there!

Summer Showcase in Downtown Brenham

Brenham knows how to do summer right—and there’s no better way to start your Saturday nights in July than with live music, local talent, and free ice cream floats. That’s right—before the big shows of Hot Nights, Cool Tunes, the music begins with Summer Showcase!

What is Summer Showcase?

A lively outdoor concert takes place in Alamo Alley in Downtown Brenham, Texas. A local band performs on a small stage under a covered awning, surrounded by greenery and string lights. Audience members of all ages relax in folding chairs, lean against railings, or sit on low walls, enjoying the music. The scene is vibrant and casual, with families, couples, and friends gathered on a sunny summer afternoon. A stroller, coolers, and sun hats add to the laid-back, community feel of the event. — Alamo Alley, Downtown Brenham

Summer Showcase is a special concert series that shines a spotlight on local musicians as part of Brenham’s official Texas Music Friendly Community designation. Each Saturday in July, a new artist will take the stage in Alamo Alley (next to 115 W. Main St.) from 5:00–6:30 PM, warming up the crowd before the main concert kicks off in Downtown Brenham!

Did Someone Say Free Ice Cream?

Hand holding a triple-scoop Blue Bell ice cream cone in front of a painted Texas flag wall. The ice cream features three colorful flavors, and the person has lavender nail polish and a gold watch. — Alamo Alley, Downtown Brenham

Yes, please! We’ll be serving up free Blue Bell ice cream floats at every Summer Showcase performance—while supplies last. It’s our sweet way of helping you beat the heat and celebrate Brenham’s new title as the Ice Cream Capital of Texas! Grab a float, find a seat, and enjoy the music under the Texas sky.

2025 Summer Showcase Lineup

Here’s who you can catch on stage this year:

July 5 – Henry Williams
Smooth vocals and soulful sound—Henry brings laid-back vibes to start your July with style!

July 12 – Lightning Ben
A local favorite known for high-energy blues and rock. You don’t want to miss this one!

July 19 – Blaggards
Get ready for Celtic rock with Texas attitude—Blaggards always bring the party!

July 26 – Cathey Bolin
A powerhouse vocalist with country roots and a heart full of soul. A perfect way to wrap up the month!

Come Early, Stay Late

Families and visitors stroll down a blocked-off street in Downtown Brenham, Texas during a classic car show. Vintage cars with open hoods line both sides of the road, while people admire the vehicles and enjoy the evening atmosphere. Historic buildings and local shops frame the scene, and the sky is clear with a soft glow from the setting sun. A couple holds hands with their two young sons in the foreground, adding to the family-friendly, small-town charm of the event. — Downtown Brenham

Make an evening of it! Before and after the Showcase, take a stroll through Downtown Brenham’s shops, grab a bite at one of our local restaurants, and stick around for the Hot Nights, Cool Tunes main event on the Courthouse Square.

Summer Showcase Location

An evening scene in Alamo Alley in Downtown Brenham, Texas, softly lit by string lights suspended overhead. A group of four people stands in the foreground, taking in the view of a nearby classic car show, where vintage vehicles with open hoods are parked along the adjacent street. The alley is lined with trees, planters, and cozy seating areas, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The soft glow of the lights and the relaxed crowd evoke a charming, small-town summer night. — Alamo Alley, Downtown Brenham

Alamo Alley, next to 115 W. Main St., Brenham, TX
(Just steps away from the Brenham & Washington County Visitor Center!)

Why We Do It

Brenham is proud to be a Music Friendly Community, and the Summer Showcase is just one of the ways we support and celebrate our local musicians. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering a new favorite, this series is a great way to connect with the creative energy of our community!

Mark your calendars, grab your friends, and we’ll see you in Alamo Alley this July!

Want more summer fun? Check out Hot Nights, Cool Tunes for the full concert lineup and event details.

Summer Showcase is hosted by Visit Brenham, with ice cream generously donated by Blue Bell Creameries and soda provided by Keurig Dr Pepper.

Ways to Celebrate National Ice Cream Month in Brenham

July is National Ice Cream Month, and there’s no better place to celebrate than the Ice Cream Capital of Texas—Brenham! Whether you’re a scoop purist, a float fan, or just in it for the festive fun, we’ve got something sweet lined up all month long. Here’s how you and your crew can cool off and enjoy the month in Brenham:

Sundae Stroll

All of July | Downtown Brenham

Take a stroll through Downtown Brenham and check out the decorated ice cream cones displayed at participating businesses. Cast your vote for your favorite by picking up a voting pamphlet at the Brenham & Washington County Visitor Center. It’s a fun way to explore the shops, snap some cute photos, and support local businesses!

Summer Showcase

A local band performs on an outdoor stage in downtown Brenham, Texas. The musicians, dressed in casual summer attire, play guitars and harmonicas under a covered pavilion. A red brick building and a painted Texas flag backdrop set the scene, while families with strollers and onlookers gather nearby to enjoy the live music on a sunny day. — Alamo Alley, Downtown Brenham

Saturdays in July | 5 PM – 6:30 PM | Downtown Brenham

Come out early before Hot Nights, Cool Tunes and enjoy free Blue Bell ice cream floats in Alamo Alley. It’s the perfect pre-show treat to beat the heat and kick off your Saturday night downtown.

Hot Nights Cool Tunes

July 19 | During the concert | Downtown Brenham

We’re celebrating National Ice Cream Day a little early this year with hand-dipped Blue Bell ice cream served during the concert! Bring your lawn chairs, grab a scoop, and enjoy a night of live music and small-town charm.

National Ice Cream Day at Blue Bell Creameries

July 20 | 12 PM – 3 PM | Blue Bell Creameries

Three cups of Blue Bell ice cream sit on a marble countertop, each filled with a different flavor and topped with a white plastic spoon. In the background, a blurred American flag and softly lit indoor seating area create a cozy and patriotic atmosphere. The focus is on the colorful scoops, highlighting the classic, creamy texture of the beloved Texas-made treat. — Blue Bell Creameries, Brenham

July 20 | 12 PM – 3 PM | Blue Bell Creameries

Stop by the Blue Bell Parlor to celebrate the big day with free ice cream! The Blue Bell Country Store will also be open—stock up on Blue Bell gear, gifts, and sweet souvenirs. There’s no better place to enjoy the holiday than right here in Brenham, home to one of the most beloved ice cream brands in the country.

Sweet Specials all july

Downtown Brenham is celebrating National Ice Cream Month with ice cream-themed specials all month long! From refreshing treats to creative desserts, local businesses are serving up limited-time offers you won’t want to miss.

Mescalito Coffee

$2 Affogatos
$2 Homemade Ice Cream Sandwiches

Must Be Heaven

Buy a slice of pie and get a free scoop of ice cream (à la mode!) – the ultimate classic summer combo!

Yumm! Sweets & Eats
Featuring over-the-top Dubai Milkshakes – only available for a limited time!

Whether you hit every event or just stop by for a scoop, there’s no wrong way to enjoy National Ice Cream Month in Brenham. So grab your spoon, and treat yourself to a taste of why we’re proud to be the Ice Cream Capital of Texas!