What began in 2016 as the Katy Area Safety Fest in a small movie theater parking lot has grown into something truly incredible. Over the years, the event has expanded in size, partnerships, and impact. With that growth comes a new name and a fresh new look – the event will now be known as the Lonestar Safety Fest, the organization announced in April 2025.

“As our festival continues to evolve, we wanted a name that reflects our wider reach and the amazing support from public safety agencies across the region,” said board member Lia Hales in the spring press release. “While the name is changing, it’s still the same great event, packed with safety demos, first responder fun, and family-friendly activities.”

The Lonestar Safety Fest is an annual community event that focuses on promoting safety awareness and education by engaging the community in a fun and educational environment. The annual festival brings together various public safety agencies, including fire, police, EMS, and other emergency response organizations, to offer demonstrations, hands-on activities, and educational opportunities for families and individuals of all ages. According to its website, the event is about creating a safer community.

The event – scheduled for September 27 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Typhoon Texas at 555 Katy Fort Bend Road in Katy --is still free at this time, according to the website. Attendees can enjoy all activities, demonstrations, and entertainment at no charge, making it an accessible and inclusive event. There will be food trucks on site where food and drink may be purchased.

And area first responders are invited to fire up, gear up, and show up to prove their skills during the Lonestar Safety Fest Firefighter Combat Challenge which starts at 9 a.m. and runs until 3 p.m. There is no fee to participate but turn-out gear is required. The six-event competition for the Firefighter Combat Challenge Perpetual Trophy is open to all law enforcement, EMS, emergency management and military personnel. For information on the Combat Challenge, please contact Ryan LeBlanc at ryan.leblanc@kasf.us or 937-367-3417. For more information on the festival, go to www.lonestarsafetyfest.com.