Saturday, Oct. 19, 2024 marks the 50th anniversary of The Woodlands. The Woodlands was first founded in 1974 by George Mitchell, who bought the land that is now the Village of Grogan’s Mill. Since its founding, The Woodlands has expanded to include over 150 parks, 220 miles of trails, and over 2,500 businesses. The Woodlands is a township or special-purpose district that functions to help meet the needs of the community and maintain The Woodlands. 

“The Woodlands Township has consistently been a unique form of local government, blending community services and municipal functions within a master-planned community,” the township said.

The Woodlands is unique in the fact that it is a master-planned community, meaning that a lot of the Woodlands planned out by founder George Mitchell before it was built, allowing for preservation of the area’s natural beauty.

“Over the years, The Woodlands has grown to include nine residential villages, The Woodlands Town Center®, Hughes Landing® and The Woodlands Waterway®, the community’s nexus of business, entertainment and culture,” The Woodlands said.

The celebrations of the Woodlands’ anniversary began on Monday, Oct. 14, with a kickoff ceremony.

The ceremony included “proclamations from local officials, as well as a dedication of a time capsule to commemorate the historic milestone,” The Woodlands said.

The celebrations continued with a day of giving on Tuesday, celebrating community service.

“Interfaith of The Woodlands is offering volunteer opportunities for the entire month of October,” The Woodlands said.

You can also contribute to Interfaith by purchasing The Woodlands’ 50th-anniversary merchandise.

“All proceeds will benefit Interfaith of The Woodlands,” said The Woodlands.

On Wednesday, a 100-gallon tree was added to each of the residential villages to enhance The Woodlands’ greenspace. Additionally, a hardwood tree was dedicated at Northshore Park.

“Greenspace and environmental stewardship are a critical part of The Woodlands,” The Woodlands said.

On Thursday, The Woodlands revealed a new mural along The Woodlands Waterway, painted by a local artist, demonstrating the importance of art in The Woodlands’ community.

“Howard Hughes presents: Lyle Lovett, resident of The Woodlands area, and his Large Band, with Hayes Carll and Jack Ingram, natives of The Woodlands,” The Woodlands said.

This free concert is a celebration of The Woodlands’ 50th anniversary and is taking place at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion. Tickets are available on the Woodlands’ website, while supplies last.

“Oct. 19 marks the actual 50th anniversary date of The Woodlands. A grand public extravaganza, produced by The Woodlands Township, will be held at Northshore Park and the Hughes Landing Band Shell in The Woodlands,” The Woodlands said.

The family-friendly celebration will include a dazzling drone and fireworks show and is free to the public.

Be sure to come out and celebrate the 50th anniversary of The Woodlands!