City of Hempstead, Texas

06/10/2026

06/10/2026

Did You Know?
Hempstead proudly holds the title of the Watermelon Capital of Texas, thanks to its long history as one of the nation's leading watermelon shipping centers. For generations, the town's rich soil and warm climate helped produce some of the sweetest melons around, making it a summertime destination for watermelon lovers.

But Hempstead isn't the only Texas town with watermelon pride. Knox City is known as the Seedless Watermelon Capital of Texas, while Grapeland has earned a reputation for producing some of the finest melons in East Texas. Luling celebrates the beloved fruit each year with its famous Watermelon Thump festival, complete with seed-spitting contests, live music, and plenty of juicy slices. Meanwhile, Dilley boldly claims to be the Watermelon Capital of the World, a title its residents wear with pride.

From East Texas fields to South Texas farms, watermelons are woven into the state's agricultural heritage. These communities continue to celebrate the fruit through festivals, traditions, and generations of hard-working growers, proving that when it comes to watermelons, everything really is bigger in Texas.

06/05/2026

*****MAY UPDATE*****

06/01/2026

Dear Citizens:

Within the next couple of weeks, the City Park will be shut down while upgrades are being made. The walking trail will be replaced, and lighting will be installed around the walking trail. The work will be done in phases, and it will be clearly indicated when the park is closed. Thank you for your patience and understanding during these necessary upgrades.

James Glover

05/22/2026

We are counting down the days until the Class of 2026 walks across the graduation stage on Friday evening. The Hempstead High School tradition of taking the senior class photo on the steps of the courthouse is back for the first time since 2023.

Help us congratulate our Seniors! 🎓

05/22/2026

05/19/2026

Hempstead Rec Center Summer Information

The Hempstead Rec Center will offer a summer program this year from June 1, 2026 to August 14, 2026; however, the program will not be open to the general public.

Additionally, children ages 11 through 15 will be allowed to visit the Rec Center Monday through Thursday from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM to play basketball or use the computer lab/game room. Please note that the weight room will not be accessible.

Program Details:
• $10 weekly admission fee
• Parents/guardians must walk children into the facility and sign them in at the front desk with current contact information.
• Children must be picked up promptly by 8:00 PM.
• No backpacks allowed.
• Regular athletic shoes are required. Sandals, flip-flops, and Crocs are not permitted.
• Arguing, fighting, or disruptive behavior will not be tolerated. Participants involved in such behavior will be banned for the remainder of the summer.

Thank you for your cooperation and support.

James Glover

05/11/2026

NOTICE

For the next three weeks, on Mondays and Wednesdays, the building department will be closed from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. for staff development.

Thank you for your understanding.

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AVISO

Durante las próximas tres semanas, los lunes y miércoles, la oficina estará cerrada de **1:00 p.m. a 2:00 p.m.** por capacitación del personal.

Gracias por su comprensión.