Hot Nights Cool Tunes Archives - Visit Brenham Texas

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!

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

Summer Showcase

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.

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

National Ice Cream Day at Blue Bell Creameries

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

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!

Hot Nights, Cool Tunes

Hot Nights, Cool Tunes is one of the highlights of the summer in Brenham & Washington County! And it is not just a one-time event. Bring your lawn chair and your friends, and join the fun each Saturday evening in July for live music on the historic square in Downtown Brenham. Admission and parking are free. Food and drinks are available for purchase at local downtown businesses. The west end of Alamo Street features a classic car show by Stray Katz Car Club, which is always a family favorite.

The music begins with the Summer Showcase! Local talent will be performing on stage in Alamo Alley (next to 115 W. Main St, Brenham) every Saturday of Hot Nights Cool Tunes from 5:00-6:30pm. This year, free Blue Bell ice cream floats will be given out during every performance until it is sold out!

July 5th - Henry Williams

July 12th - Lightning Ben

July 19th - Blaggards

July 26 - Cathey Bolin

The headliner bands start playing at 7:00 pm and ends around 9:00 pm at the corner of Alamo and Baylor on the square. Come early for shopping, food, car show, and the local music!

Local band playing on the stage in Alamo Alley in Downtown Brenham before the headliner band at Hot Nights, Cool Tunes Summer Concert Series. Photo by Natalie Lacy Lange — Alamo Alley, Downtown Brenham

July 5th, 2025 – Suede

Main Street Brenham is kicking off the 21th year by bringing back one of the most loved groups. The Austin-based classic rock ‘n roll band SUEDE returns to the courthouse square.

Sponsored by Dahmann & Associates, Brenham National Bank, Seidel Shroeder, and Brenham Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

July 12th, 2025 – Cap City Band

A party band with a wide variety of crowd favorites, the second week of Hot Nights, Cool Tunes will feature the Cap City Band.

Sponsored by Briannas Fine Salad Dressings, Deep in the Heart Farms, Upchurch Yates Law Firm, and Brannon Industrial Group.

July 19th, 2025 – 90 PROOF

Bringing the best of ‘90s country to the streets of Downtown Brenham, the third week of Hot Nights, Cool Tunes features 90 PROOF, a Dallas-Fort Worth band known for their high-energy covers of classic country hits from the decade that defined the genre.

Sponsored by Blue Bell Creameries, Citizens State Bank, Bluebonnet Electric Cooperative, Woodson Lumber Company.

July 26th, 2025 – The Spicolis

The classic MTV tribute band out of Houston, The Spicolis who feature hits from the 80s. This is the fifth year the Spicoli’s have performed in Brenham, and they are always a crowd-pleaser!

Sponsored by Chelsea Build, Valmont Industries, Strand Associates, and Budweiser - Mike Hopkins Distributing.

Hot Nights, Cool Tunes concert series is brought to you by

The City of Brenham and KTEX 106.1

To learn more, visit https://downtownbrenham.com/hotnights or the Hot Nights Cool Tunes Downtown Brenham Facebook page.

Make a weekend out of it, and stay in Brenham and Washington County! Click here for lodging.

Summer Fun in Brenham

The days are getting longer and the sun is shining, which means that it is time to plan your summer trip to Brenham, Texas! Come spend a few nights at one of our wonderful lodging properties because there is no shortage of fun during the summer months. Make your summer to-do list for Brenham & Washington County today!

Summer Events

Chappell Hill Art Walk, Downtown Chappell Hill

Main Street Chappell Hill Artwalk - May 24, 2025; Come to Chappell Hill to shop and meet the artists in the variety of stores while they create original artwork throughout the day.

Summer Sip & Art Walk - June 7, 2025; stroll through unique shops in historic Downtown Brenham while tasting signature drinks and enjoying a variety of featured art.

Cotton Gin Classic Car & Truck Show, Burton

Cotton Gin Classic Car & Truck Show - June 14, 2025; Annual Car & Truck Show held in the shadow of the oldest operating cotton gin in America, located in Burton, TX. This event is weather dependent.

WCJA Juneteenth Ceremony & Parade - June 14, 2025; Annual Juneteenth Parade in Downtown Brenham held by Washington County Juneteenth Association.

Annual Judge Eddie E. Harrison Juneteenth Heritage Celebration - June 21, 2025; Washington-on-the-Brazos is proud to celebrate Juneteenth as a part of Washington County’s long history of marking the end of slavery in Texas. This year, the event will focus on celebrating African American Churches in the Brazos Valley. There will be musical performances from local church choirs, food, vendors, informational and cultural heritage booths, and lots of fun!!

Summer Showcase - July 5, 12, 19, & 26, 2025; Head to Alamo Alley in Downtown Brenham for Summer Showcase, where local musicians take the stage from 5–6:30 PM before Hot Nights, Cool Tunes for a free live music pre-show presented by Visit Brenham and the Texas Music Friendly Committee.

Hot Nights, Cool Tunes, Downtown Brenham

Hot Nights, Cool Tunes - Saturday evenings July 5, 12, 19, & 26; Bring your lawn chair and gather around the historic downtown square to listen to the sounds of live music and walk through the classic car show. Admission and parking is FREE!

Chappell Hill Independence Day Parade & Festivities - July 4, 2025; It's the best small town parade you'll experience! Come on out to celebrate Independence Day in Chappell Hill.

Annual Independence Celebration - July 4, 2025; Fireworks will be visible for miles, so there's plenty of room for everyone to come out and celebrate our freedom and independence in Independence, TX.

Chappell Hill Wine & Cheese Swirl - August 9, 2025; Stroll the shops along Chappell Hill's charming Main Street and taste a variety of wines and chocolate pairings.

Movies in the Park Summer Series - May 26, July 3, & August 1, 2025; Bring the kids and watch movies including Mufasa, Finding Nemo and Moana 2 at the Blue Bell Aquatic Center, Fireman's Park and Henderson Park. All movies will start approximately 10 minutes after sunset.

Summer Activities for Kids

Blue Bell Creameries is a must visit when you are in Brenham! It is usually only open on the weekdays, but during the summer months of June-August, the Ice Cream Parlor and Country Store will be open on Saturdays from 10am-4pm as well. To experience everything Blue Bell has to offer, including the parlor, visitor center, country store and observation deck, please come on weekdays from 8am-5pm.

Other fun activities include swimming at the Blue Bell Aquatic Center, roller skating at Silver Wings Ballroom, picking lavender at the Chappell Hill Lavender Farm, and horseback riding at Rockin' Star Ranch. There's fun for everyone in Brenham & Washington County!

Texas Arts and Music Festival

The ninth annual Texas Arts & Music Festival in historic Downtown Brenham is just around the corner! Join us October 18-20, 2024, for a family-friendly weekend of art, music, street food, and activities in the streets of Downtown Brenham.

Each year the Texas Arts & Music Festival brings live music and world-renowned mural artists for live art installations for the public to enjoy. This year for the first time, the festival will host a juried art show alongside the expected slate of activities. The show is eligible for any artist to enter and will be open during festival operating hours on Saturday and Sunday, with an added invite-only opening Friday evening.

Texas Arts and Music Festival will feature live music throughout the day on Saturday, October 20 with Brazos Valley’s own Kane Alvarado opening with a rock and blues set from 2 to 3:30 p.m.

Willow Creek Junction will follow from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Based out of Magnolia, the band offers a balanced repertoire of original compositions and cover renditions embodying the essence of Texas Country.

Next will be the Americana and Indie Rock musical stylings of Susto from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Originally from South Carolina, he now lives in Austin, and his music reflects his new southwest style.

This year’s headliner will be Jomo and the Possum Posse, playing from 8 to 9:30 p.m. Self-described as “The Greatest Band in the World. Possibly Ever”, the group combines a unique style of original music with comedy and honky-tonk. The concert, along with the festival, are family-friendly and FREE to the public. Bring your lawn chair and enjoy live music and delicious food and refreshments from local restaurants and food trucks.

The Art Village will be open on Saturday, 10am-8pm and Sunday, 10am-2pm. Artists and Craftsmen from across Texas will be set up offering their unique handmade creations to the public.

The Texas Arts & Music Festival is the perfect weekend to enjoy all that historic Downtown Brenham has to offer! Check out our lodging partners, and plan your weekend now.

For more information, visit the TAMF website.

Photography by Natalie Lacy Lange