The City of Katy announced on January 3 the launch of “The Katy Exchange” – a new series of events that will bring local artisans, vendors, and makers to the Historic Downtown Square at Second Street and Avenue B.

The Katy Exchange will bring six new events, scheduled from March to December, to the square and will offer free entry to the public, providing a space for the community to shop, explore, and enjoy the best of local craftsmanship, according to the press release. Each event will feature a spotlight on select local nonprofits, with all proceeds benefiting the designated charities. The inaugural Katy Exchange will support the Katy VFW Post 9182 and Camp Hope’s PTSD Foundation of America. Representatives from each branch of the military will be in attendance and honored at the event.

“We are so excited to offer a platform that not only promotes our Historic Town Square but also engages with local businesses, history, and charitable organizations that contribute to our community,” said Mayor Dusty Thiele. “With 2025 being a year full of exciting developments, including the final projects of our downtown revitalization, we’re looking forward to the enhanced experiences that will make our Historic Downtown Square the heart of Katy.”

Katy’s Parks and Recreation Department will play a vital role in the success of 2025’s calendar of events, the press release said. “From seasonal festivities to cultural celebrations, the department’s efforts will bring a diverse range of events, making downtown Katy a year-round destination for residents and visitors alike,” the release said.

The City of Katy also announced the launch of the official City of Katy Historic Town Square Facebook and Instagram pages dedicated to promoting the rich history, vibrant businesses, and future events of the city’s Historic Downtown Square, according to the press release. “These social media platforms will serve as a hub for showcasing the ongoing renovations, the area's storied past, and the wide array of events planned for 2025, making this year one of the most exciting in the city's history,” the release said.

The new social media channels will also feature the stories of downtown Katy businesses, highlighting their contributions to the community and their own unique histories. From family-owned shops to the evolving culinary scene, these platforms will be a celebration of local entrepreneurship and the deep roots that tie businesses to the city's identity.

In addition, the social media pages will collaborate with the Katy Rice Harvest Festival to promote the city’s annual festival which celebrates Katy’s rice farming history and the enduring importance of agriculture to the community.