Thanks to warmer temperatures, longer days and even a few weeks of rain showers, there’s no doubt about it — spring has sprung! After whiling away the gray hours of January and February mostly indoors, nothing feels better than getting outside and enjoying the greenery popping up all over the city. Why not celebrate the season by checking out these vibrant happenings in and around Downtown Dallas?
Anyone who’s called Dallas home for a while knows that spring also means the start of festival season. Make sure to check out one of the largest and most acclaimed — the Deep Ellum Arts Festival — which runs from April 6-8. This event features over 200 decorative and visual artists from around the country as well as performances by more than 100 bands.
Another can’t-miss event is the Old 97’s County Fair. For the third year in a row, the city’s favorite alt-country sons will welcome a diverse crew of fellow musical acts, including The Mavericks, Erika Wennerstrom and Lord Huron. Pair authentic, rootsy tunes with the feel of an actual fair — complete with a Ferris wheel and corn dogs — and you have a great way to spend a Saturday (April 14) at Downtown Dallas’ Main Street Garden (1902 Main St.).
Just northeast of Downtown, a local spring classic is returning to the Dallas Arboretum (8525 Garland Rd.). Dallas Blooms will run until April 8 and features over 500,000 stunning spring bulbs. One of the largest floral festivals in the Southwest, this event takes on a different geographical theme each week, from the Mediterranean to Asia to the Americas. And make sure to catch the International Festival on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., where you’ll be treated to live music, dance performances, special vendors and more.
Culture is truly bursting out all over Dallas this spring. Not surprisingly, venues across Downtown Dallas are at the heart of this creative explosion. On Saturday, April 7, Klyde Warren Park (2012 Woodall Rodgers Fwy.) welcomes celebrants to the Festival of Joy. Learn more about the rich cultural history of India while enjoying performances of traditional dance, marveling the skill of henna tattoo artists and feasting on a free vegetarian meal. One month later, on May 5, the Dallas-based crafters of Etsy Dallas will hold their 10th Annual Spring Bash at the South Side Event Center (1135 S. Lamar St.). Browse a wide selection of handmade goods, such as soaps, journals, jewelry, apparel, prints and more. The first 50 shoppers to arrive will even receive a free Bash Goody Bag. Refreshments will be provided as well, courtesy of several food trucks and a full bar.
Warmer weather usually inspires all of us to get a little more active, and there’s no better way to kick off your pre-summer, get-fit plan than by participating in the Celebration White Rock 5K/10K Race on April 5. Not only is it the largest run at White Rock Lake, but it’s one of the few races that doesn’t stick to a strict 8 a.m. start time. This race actually kicks off around 6:30 p.m., so runners can cross the finish line just in time to watch the sun set over the Downtown Dallas skyline. And, with live music, food and drinks, it features a post-race party to remember.
Of course, as you enjoy the cheery spring weather, make sure to show your appreciation for Mother Nature by celebrating Earth Day. EarthX describes itself as “the world’s largest environmental experience” and will be hosting experts in all things green at Fair Park April 20-22. The event schedule includes presentations on topics ranging from alternative fuels to sustainable architectural practices as well as art exhibits, film screenings and live music. The entire weekend is free and open to the public, provided attendees register in advance.
Lastly, mark the last week of spring by attending the AT&T Byron Nelson, one of Dallas’ largest sporting events. This year, the nationally broadcasted golf tournament celebrates its 50th anniversary and will be teeing off at a new location — the Trinity Forest Golf Club. Not only will you get the chance to watch the sport’s very best compete, but all proceeds will benefit the Momentous Institute, which provides therapeutic and educational services for children.
How do you plan to spring into the season? Share the excitement with us on Facebook and Twitter.