Blake Shelton to Headline Houston Children's Charity Gala

Country music superstar to perform 75-minute set at 30th anniversary event

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Blake Shelton, the Billboard-dominating country music star, will headline the 30th anniversary gala for Houston Children's Charity on October 17. The nonprofit organization, led by president and CEO Laura Ward, is expecting Shelton to perform hits like 'Austin,' 'God's Country,' 'Honey Bee,' and 'Boys 'Round Here' during his 75-minute set. The gala is being underwritten by longtime supporter Gary Petersen, co-founder of EnCap Investments and a minority owner of the Houston Texans and Houston Astros.

Why it matters

Houston Children's Charity has provided 8 million kids with beds, clothing, school supplies, transportation, health services, and holiday experiences over the past three decades. The organization's 30th anniversary gala, featuring a performance by a major country music star, is expected to raise more funds than ever before to support its mission of helping children in need.

The details

The 30th anniversary gala for Houston Children's Charity will take place on October 17. Country music superstar Blake Shelton will deliver a 75-minute performance of his biggest hits. The event is being underwritten by longtime supporter Gary Petersen, who has played a vital role in advancing the charity's vision and mission over the years, including enabling the purchase of 98 vans for families with disabled children.

  • The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo opens on Monday, March 2, 2026.
  • The Houston Children's Charity gala featuring Blake Shelton will take place on October 17, 2026.

The players

Blake Shelton

A Billboard-dominating country music superstar known for hits like 'Austin,' 'God's Country,' 'Honey Bee,' and 'Boys 'Round Here.'

Laura Ward

The president and CEO of Houston Children's Charity, which has provided 8 million kids with beds, clothing, school supplies, transportation, health services, and holiday experiences over the past three decades.

Gary Petersen

The co-founder of EnCap Investments and a minority owner of the Houston Texans and Houston Astros, who has been a stalwart supporter of Houston Children's Charity, underwriting the charity's 30th anniversary gala and enabling the purchase of 98 vans for families with disabled children.

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What they’re saying

“Because of the generosity of longtime supporter Gary Petersen, we were able to reach out to talent at this level.”

— Laura Ward, President and CEO, Houston Children's Charity (PaperCity)

“Blake Shelton will deliver an energized 75-minute performance that is sure to meet the expectations of all of his fans.”

— Laura Ward, President and CEO, Houston Children's Charity (PaperCity)

“Because I know that Houstonians lead with purpose and give with heart, we will try our very best in this 30th year to raise more money for the children than ever before.”

— Laura Ward, President and CEO, Houston Children's Charity (PaperCity)

What’s next

The October 17 gala is expected to surpass the $9.4 million raised at last year's event, which enabled the charity to purchase 98 vans for families with disabled children.

The takeaway

Houston Children's Charity's 30th anniversary gala, featuring a performance by country music superstar Blake Shelton, underscores the organization's longstanding commitment to supporting children in need and the generosity of the Houston community in helping the charity fulfill its mission.