Johnson Space Center 65th Anniversary Celebration

Thursday, Nov. 19, 2026

5:30-8:30 p.m.

***This event is for Badged JSC Employees and their family and friends. This event is NOT open to the public.***

For 65 years, NASA’s Johnson Space Center has advanced human spaceflight through groundbreaking achievements, innovation, and the dedication of its workforce.

Join us at Johnson’s Lunar Receiving Park on Thursday, Nov. 19, 2026, from 5:30-8:30 p.m. as we commemorate this milestone and honor the people that contributed to our mission and continue to shape the future of exploration. This special event will feature interactive activities for all ages, a STEM zone for kids, NASA hardware, live music, and a finale you won’t want to miss!

Celebration Highlights

Live musical entertainment from country music star Josh Turner, and Houston’s own Mister Data

A spectacular NASA-themed drone show as the grande finale

Also featuring:

• Remarks by Johnson Director Vanessa Wyche
• A message from the International Space Station crew
• Floor tours of the Space Vehicle Mockup Facility in building 9
• NASA videos, simulations, and hands-on STEM activities
• Fun photo opportunities
• Delicious Space City eats 

Ticket Prices

• Kids Age 3 & Under: Free!
• Adult: $10.00
• Kids Age 4-10: $5.00

Purchase Tickets Here

This event is for badged Johnson employees and their family and friends. This event is NOT open to the public.

The Fine Print

• This event is for badged Johnson employees and their family and friends. This event is not open to the public.
• Tickets must be purchased by midnight on Nov. 18, 2026. Attendees must have a ticket before the event. Tickets will not be sold at the door. 
• Event check-in opens at 5:30 p.m. No refunds will be provided. 
• Inclement weather date is Nov. 20, 2026. Check RoundUp Today and the NASA Safe App for information. 
• Event agenda and activities are subject to change.

Celebration Do’s

• Purchase a ticket(s) prior to midnight on Nov. 18, 2026. Tickets will be not be sold the day of the event. 
• Plan to walk or bike if you are able, or carpool with coworkers. Parking is extremely limited next to the Lunar Receiving Park. 
• Bring folding chairs or blankets to sit on. You sit on what you bring!
• Utilize clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags that do not exceed 12” x 6” x 12”. Small clutch purses or wallets are acceptable. 
• When exiting the center following the event, please use Gate 1, Gate 4, or the 2nd Street Gilruth Center Gate.
• Guests of badged employees must be either U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents. 
• All non-badged guests must show a printed or digital ticket to pass the Security Gates for site entry.  
• Reach out to JSC-Starport@mail.nasa.gov for options regarding special dietary exception information if you cannot eat any of the options provided. 
• Download the NASA Safe App for emergency and weather information.

Celebration Don’ts

• Bring coolers, large bags, beach umbrellas, tents, fireworks, or pets. Weapons/firearms are also prohibited. 
• Bring outside food and alcoholic beverages.
• Run on the elevated walkways or green spaces. Watch your step as you move about the park!
• Arrive prior to the 5:30 p.m. entry time.

Food and Beverage Options

Each ticket includes an entrée, snacks, water, and soda. In addition, adults 21+ will be provided with a wristband for up to three servings of beer or seltzer. 

• Beers Rolling Smoke Trailer
  • Pulled pork sandwich with choice of chips or corn in a cup
• Foreign Policy Food Truck
  • Choice of entree with fries: Mexican pita, Greek pita, Greek salad, Korean fries, veggie pita, Texas policy burger, chicken tender bacon burger, chicken tender basket
• True Dog Houston Food Truck
  • Choice of one with chips: plain, cheese, chili cheese, or the True Dog
• Twisted Grilled Cheese
  • Choice of one with chips: O.G. classic cheese, twisted pepperoni, smokehouse brisket, or halal Philly grilled chicken
• Chick-fil-A
  • Grilled nuggets, fried nuggets, fried chicken sandwiches

Parking Map

Johnson’s 65th Anniversary Spirit Week!

We have Johnson spirit – how about you?

Join us for a four-day celebration honoring the 65th anniversary of NASA’s Johnson Space Center! From Nov. 16-19, this special spirit week will feature employee engagement activities, themed food events, community celebrations, and a special Galaxy Lights experience at Space Center Houston – all culminating in an anniversary celebration at Johnson’s Lunar Receiving Park.

Just announced: The anniversary celebration will feature live musical entertainment from country music star Josh Turner, and Houston’s own Mister Data. Plus, don’t miss the grand finale – a spectacular NASA-themed drone show!

Mark your calendars for the full schedule of spirit week events!

Monday, Nov. 16 – Spirit Week Kickoff

During the day, join us for birthday cupcakes in building 3, building 11, the Mission Control Center, Ellington Field, and the Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory (NBL). 

Tuesday, Nov. 17 – Houston Day

Start your day with Houston’s favorite! Shipley Do-Nuts will be available for employees in building 3, the Mission Control Center, Ellington Field, and the NBL. Wear your Houston jerseys to work and join us in the Teague Auditorium lobby from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. for fun with Houston-area mascots and photo opportunities!

Wednesday, Nov. 18 – Lunar Launch

Johnson’s annual Turkey Launch is getting a lunar makeover for the year of Artemis II! From 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., meet us on the quad between buildings 1 and 3 to enjoy music, outdoor games, and other activities.

Thursday, Nov. 19 – Celebration Day!

Join us at Johnson’s Lunar Receiving Park from 5:30-8:30 p.m. as we commemorate our 65th anniversary and honor the people that contributed to our mission and continue to shape the future of exploration. This special event will feature live musical entertainment and a NASA-themed drone show, plus interactive activities for all ages, a STEM zone for kids, and NASA hardware on display. Tickets are just $10 per person and include a meal and beverages. Children age 3 and under are free! Get your tickets here.