Good morning, Midland.

The U.S. Census Bureau's May 14 report shows Midland's population now stands at 147,615 — a 2.7% increase from 2024 and an 11.0% rise since 2020 — as it outpaces other West Texas cities.

Midland Animal Services reported 240 adoptions (71 in March) during the first quarter of 2026 while managing 1,081 intakes and maintaining a 78% live release rate.

Bubba’s 33 restaurants in Midland and Odessa will raise funds for wounded veterans during July by donating $1 for every Patriot Burger sold in partnership with Homes For Our Troops.

The campaign includes a Harley+Davidson giveaway for a Fat Boy motorcycle.

Midland hosts its first Arts and Culture Day today at 15 locations offering art exhibits, live music, and vendor booths.

The free event starts at 8 a.m. at the Downtown Farmers Market and ends with an outdoor concert at 6 p.m. near 404 N. Colorado St.—presented by Rogers Ford.

Airports reported that 55,301 passengers left in April, staying more than 10% above the 10-year average despite a drop from last year's record, officials said.

Fiscal year-to-date departures remain higher than FY 2023 as net parking revenues nearly match last year's pace.

Sales tax collection in Midland rose by 5% over last fiscal year, with the Texas Comptroller’s Office reporting April revenue of $5,204,648 from February sales — pushing the year-to-date total to $41,168,008.

Airline and airport data at Midland International Air Space Port for February show similar performance to past years.

Officials report that over 50,000 passengers left and parking revenue grew 1.87%—keeping fiscal year totals near those of last year.

Midland Animal Services was awarded $150,000 from the Texas Spay and Neuter Pilot Program on April 8 to support its spay and neuter services and animal medical care initiatives.

The grant, announced by Animal Services manager (Alexsey Dobberstine), will fund efforts over two years to reduce stray populations.

Midland Fire Department reported a slight increase in February calls, with overall runs rising from 1,793 to 1,804 and EMS calls up from 1,319 to 1,355 – nearly matching figures from February 2025.

The FAA announced on May 20 that Midland International Air and Space Port received $4 million in grant funding to support its Terminal Expansion Project improvements — helping secure nearly $29 million in federal funds toward the $50 million project.

The funding supports enhanced passenger screening and terminal modernization.

The Midland Fire Department responded to 5,884 calls in the first-quarter with over 4,400 EMS calls—a 3.3% increase from last year.

The department also handled 203 fires, marking a 12% rise from the previous period.

Midland Health Services provided more than 2,100 vaccines in the first quarter of 2026—reporting 853 in March and helping 719 young residents while keeping 1,511 appointments and conducting 105 inspections in March.

Summer Sunday Lawn Concert: The Pump Handle Vandals

7-9 p.m. — Museum of the Southwest — Free entry — Enjoy a lively evening of Texas country and honky-tonk music with The Pump Handle Vandals.

Summer Art Camp: Mythical Mash Up

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. — The Studio by Kidd's & Canvas — Lunch available for $5 — Engaging art camp for kids with daily fun and creativity exploring various themes.

Bejeweled Hair Clips Workshop

6-8 p.m. — Love Affair Bookstore — Free entry — Create your own sparkling hair accessories for a fun summer style.

After-Hours Reiki Energy Reset Sessions

5-7 p.m. — Earth, Body, & Soul — $10 — Experience a brief moment of tranquility and energetic cleansing to reset your stress.

Baby Witch Night: Magical Beginner Class

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Earth, Body, & Soul — $33 per person — Explore crystals, moon phases, and intention setting in a welcoming space for aspiring young witches.

Live Music with Bo Zertuche

6-9 p.m. — Venezia Restaurant — Reservation recommended — Enjoy an evening of live music while dining at a local favorite.

Summer Sunday Lawn Concert 2026: IN$UFFICIENT FUND$

7-9 p.m. — Museum of the Southwest — Free entry — Celebrate the closing of the 39th Annual Summer Sunday Lawn Concert Series with live music and family activities.

Free Tai Chi Gung Class

9-10 a.m. — Watersong Wild Space — Free entry — Engage in gentle exercises that connect you to nature and enhance well-being through balanced movements.

Live Music and Evening Dining

6-9 p.m. — Cafe at the Gardens — No cover — Enjoy local artists performing in a relaxing garden-side atmosphere while dining.

Kids Night Out

6-9 p.m. — The Studio by Kidd's & Canvas — Dinner available for purchase — A fun evening for kids ages 4 to 14 with games, crafts, and painting.