The Bush Family Home State Historic Site will mark Valentine’s Day and Presidents Day with a two-day lineup of free, family-friendly events Feb. 13–14 in Midland.
The weekend begins the evening of Feb. 13 with a themed movie night as part of the site’s Atomic Age After Dark program series.
The event, titled “Viva Zapata Date Night,” will feature a screening of “Viva Zapata” in the visitor center. Popcorn and soda will be available.
The film has ties to Midland history. “Viva Zapata” inspired the name of Zapata Petroleum, the company that helped George H.W. Bush earn his first million dollars while working in the Permian Basin.
Activities continue throughout the day Feb. 14 with a Presidents Day celebration from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Visitors can experience a living wax museum featuring children portraying former U.S. presidents and first ladies. Participants will share short stories and historical facts while dressed as the figures they researched.
Parents interested in having their children participate may contact the site at 432-685-1112 or email [email protected]. Site staff are available to help suggest appropriate clothing and lines for presentations.
Later in the afternoon, the historic site will shift gears with a 1950s-themed Valentine’s Day sock hop from 1 to 3 p.m. The event will include hula hoop and bubble gum blowing contests, music from the era and additional activities geared toward younger visitors.
“We are excited about combining two fun holidays this year with little ones to help teach about the different presidents and for our Sock Hop,” site manager Troy Gray said.
The Bush Family Home State Historic Site is located at 1412 W. Ohio St. in Midland. Regular hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, with the last tour beginning at 4:15 p.m.
The site joined the Texas Historical Commission in 2023 and is one of 42 historic sites across Texas. More information is available at visitbushfamilyhome.com.