This fall marks a pivotal moment in Artpace’s history. As we celebrate our 30th anniversary, we are proud to unveil a major transformation of our downtown building, a newly renovated rooftop terrace powered by solar energy, and to mark the occasion with The Happening in Red, our anniversary gala on October 11, 2025.
The rooftop renovation reflects Artpace’s dual commitments to sustainability and community engagement. Designed by Grasso Gay Architects, the new space features a shade structure, expanded event deck, food and beverage bar, and new amenities that create a welcoming venue for performances, gatherings, and rentals. Partnering with Texas-owned Big Sun Solar, Artpace has also integrated solar panels into the design, offsetting more than half of our annual energy use and reducing our carbon footprint by more than 75 metric tons each year.
This expansion is more than a building upgrade. It is a chance to reimagine how Artpace can serve San Antonio. The redesigned rooftop will allow us to expand our beloved programs like the Russell Hill Rogers: San Antonio Sessions, reintroduce community favorites like Morning Mixers, and host new initiatives such as outdoor film screenings and live performances under the stars.
Our 30th anniversary gala, The Happening in Red, will be the rooftop’s inaugural event. On October 11, 2025, we will honor Artpace founder Linda Pace, whose vision created a home for artists in San Antonio, and internationally acclaimed sculptor Nancy Rubins, whose monumental installations have redefined contemporary sculpture. Guests can expect cocktails, dinner, dancing, and the highly anticipated after-party on the new rooftop. Following the gala, the rooftop will officially reopen to the public with programming designed to bring our community together in this revitalized space.
The Happening is more than a celebration. It sustains the heart of Artpace. As one of our largest fundraisers, the event supports free year-round exhibitions, residencies, and educational programming that have made Artpace a vital part of San Antonio’s cultural landscape for three decades.
As we look ahead, the new rooftop stands as a symbol of our commitment to both the arts and the environment. We look forward to sharing this reimagined space with the community, a place to gather, celebrate, and experience art together.
Join us on October 11, 2025, for The Happening in Red as we honor our history and toast to our future. Tickets are available at artpace.org/happening.
