Chicano Block Party: California Center for the Arts, Escondido hosts its free Aug. 8 celebration of Chicano art, culture and community, with a lowrider car show, printmaking fair, live DJs, workshops and a live mural in the galleries. Open Calls: MedFest Egypt opened submissions for “Beyond the Scene: Bitter and Sweet,” inviting visual artists and media creators to explore the hidden ideas behind stories (deadline Aug. 15). Digital Heritage: Ho Chi Minh City museums are leaning into VR, 3D displays and digital halls to boost cultural tourism and the night-time economy. Temple Architecture Spotlight: “Sapta Sindhu 2026” wrapped in Vijayawada with competitions and exhibitions celebrating India’s temple heritage and traditional design. Privacy vs. Convenience: New Zealand experts warn that cheap wearable camera glasses could outpace privacy protections, making discreet recording easier. Arts & Community Grants: Chico awarded $50,000 to 12 local arts and culture projects through its 2026-2027 grants program. Public Art in Motion: Philadelphia’s Afromation Avenue dedicates a new Kensington street-art installation on Aug. 8, pairing affirmations with community healing. Culture on Stage: Tuacahn’s “Grease” review praises the fast, crowd-pleasing regional production. Film & Media: Padma Lakshmi will receive the Asian American Arts Alliance Vanguard Award on Oct. 5.