Some birthdays call for cake.

Others call for live music, food, art, family activities and — because this is TERI — even a few mini horses.

TERI is celebrating its 46th anniversary this year, and the San Marcos community is invited to join the party at TERI Fest on Saturday, September 26.

The free celebration runs from 2 to 6 p.m. at the TERI Campus of Life, 555 Deer Springs Road in San Marcos, with free admission and parking.

But the story behind this particular birthday goes back a lot further than the party.

It Started in 1980

TERI — the Training, Education & Resource Institute — was founded by Cheryl Kilmer in 1980 with a mission centered on improving the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.

What began as a small effort focused on high-quality residential care has grown considerably.

Today, TERI operates more than 20 programs and serves more than 900 individuals and families each year through education, vocational training, residential programs, health and wellness initiatives and other lifelong services.

And some of the people TERI first served decades ago remain connected to the organization today.

That makes 46 years something worth celebrating.

A 20-Acre Campus in San Marcos

The TERI Campus of Life has become a very visible part of the organization's work in San Marcos.

Located on 20 acres in Twin Oaks Valley, the campus has continued to grow over the years as TERI has expanded its facilities and programs.

The property was acquired following a $1 million lead gift in 2002. After years of planning, TERI received its Major Use Permit in 2015, and the Harriet E. Pfleger Equestrian Center became the first major facility developed on the campus.

Today, the property also includes places that welcome the broader community, including TERI Common Grounds Café & Coffee Bar and the Bornemann Theatre.

Now They're Opening the Campus for a Birthday Party

TERI Fest gives local residents a chance to visit the campus while celebrating the organization's 46th anniversary.

The afternoon is scheduled to include live music from local musicians, hands-on art activities and family fun.

And TERI's own invitation includes one attraction that may be particularly hard for the kids to resist: a family-fun zone — including their mini horses.

Admission and parking are free. Food and beverages will be available for purchase from TERI Common Grounds Café & Coffee Bar.

The event is being presented for all ages and abilities.

Gates are scheduled to open at 1:30 p.m., with TERI Fest running from 2 to 6 p.m.

After 46 years, that's quite a journey from an organization that began in 1980.

And for one Saturday afternoon in September, they're inviting San Marcos to come celebrate it with them.

Questions You May Have About TERI Fest

When is TERI Fest?
Saturday, September 26, 2026, from 2 to 6 p.m. Gates are scheduled to open at 1:30 p.m.

Where is TERI Fest?
TERI Campus of Life, 555 Deer Springs Road in San Marcos.

Does TERI Fest cost anything?
Admission and parking are free. Food and beverages will be available for purchase from TERI Common Grounds Café & Coffee Bar.

Do I need to register?
TERI is encouraging guests to reserve their spot in advance through its TERI Fest registration page.