Texas Travel News

Whistle Stop Christmas in Cleburne

noreply@blogger.com (Grace Sydney) — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 20:18:00 +0000

After 35 years on the Santa Fe Railroad, Steam Engine 3417 carried its last load in 1954. Retired to the peace of Hulen Park, today the locomotive charms a new generation of Lone Star residents, and each December since 1996 its whistle blasts heralds the start of the holiday season.

From mid-November through New Year's Eve, more than 3 million Christmas lights will illuminate Hulen Park's 12 acres, casting a warm glow on the faces of visitors who can also experience a weekend of winter wonder in early December as a plethora of marching bands and festive floats promenade downtown in a Christmas parade. Carol-singing choirs provide a seasonal soundtrack as spectators stroll among vendor booths brimming with holiday gift items while little ones sit on Santa's lap for a photo that will be cherished through the years.

The following day, the doors of many of Cleburne's most architecturally interesting abodes open to the public for the Candlewalk Tour of Homes.

When: November 23 - December 31, 2009 (Hulen Park Christmas lights)
December 4: Christmas parade, Santa
December 5: Candlewalk Tour of Homes

Where: Hulen Park and downtown Cleburne.

For more information:

visit www.whistlestopchristmas.org

Holiday at the Hall in Lewisville

noreply@blogger.com (Grace Sydney) — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 17:16:00 +0000

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas everywhere you go, including the city of Lewisville, which welcomes more than 15,000 spectators each year as residents ring in the festive season with the Holiday at the Hall event.

Kids converging at the Kiwanis Club can enjoy pancakes and sausage with Old Saint Nick, sing carols and create a Christmas art project at the Breakfast with Santa event.

Local and regional acts will perform seasonal songs on two stages, while strolling performers spread Christmas cheer throughout the festival area.

Instead of eight tiny reindeer, horsepower from hundreds of "hogs" bring a little Christmas magic at the Motorcycle Toy Run. Riders giving an unwrapped new toy, which will later be distributed at a local charity, will rev up their engines in Old Town.

Christmas themes chiseled in ice will sparkle in the street as visitors vote on their favorite work of holiday art at the Polar Ice Carving Village.

A cavalcade of cuddly canines will also be on hand to celebrate the spirit of the season at Tailwaggers Ranch, where doggie don duds for a pet costume contest and pet parade, Rovers show their skills in an agility rally, and 20 rescue groups bring some barking buddies to join the in fun.

Strike up the band for the annual Sam Pack's Ford Christmas Parade, which will feature floats, dance troupes, drill teams and more, filing down the streets of of the city.

As natural light begins to dim, residents and guests alike will gather for the Holiday Lights! Old Town lighting ceremony.

When: December 5, 2009

Where: Old Town Lewisville

For more information:

visit www.cityoflewisville.com

Get a sneak peek at Holiday at the Hall in the following clip from the City of Lewisville:

Mariachi Vargas Extravaganza in San Antonio

noreply@blogger.com (Grace Sydney) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 21:51:00 +0000

A seven-day salute to south of the border sounds, from the heavenly refrains of a Mariachi mass at the San Jose Mission to a final farewell breakfast, the 1,000 mariachi musicians and vocalists who perform at Mariachi Vargas Extravaganza have offered San Antonio music lovers food for the soul each year since 1994.

Concerts

The blare of trumpets and romantic strains of violins will beckon music lovers to the Instituto de Mexico in HemisFair Palza for a performance by Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán during a homage to Hispanic heritage, Noche de Cultura.

As the sun begins to set over San Antonio, sightseers at the Rivercenter Mall Lagoon on the Riverwalk can enjoy an evening of canciones y cultura as student Mariachi groups from across the nation perform during Serenata en el Rio.

A century of tradition echos in the songs of Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán, who-- along with the winners of the student competitions and "Best Mariachi vocalist in the U.S." victor-- will take the stage for a concert at San Antonio Municipal Auditorium.

Competitions

Mariachi Group Competition
Mariachi vocal Competition

Workshops

Performers pass on their passion for the musical genre to the next generation at mariachi instrumental and vocal workshops at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center as well as through community and in-school presentations at various locations.

When: November 15 - 21, 2009

Where: Various venues throughout San Antonio.

For more information:

visit www.mariachimusic.com

The following QPNN.TV clip, featuring the music of Los Galleros, offers a glimpse of the event's Mariachi magic:

Salado Scottish Clan Gathering and Highland Games

noreply@blogger.com (Grace Sydney) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 21:01:00 +0000

A wee bit of Scotland can be found in central Texas each year in Salado, and whether you are searching for your ancestors in a genealogy workshop or simply savoring the event's sights and sounds, the three-day gathering is one Highland fling that will never be forgotten.

Events

The rhythm of Scottish drums and blare of pipes are sounds that stir the blood during a competition of musical mastery, while performers prancing to the steps of the Seann Triubhas, the Sword dance and the Pas de Basques tap out the heartbeat of the Highlands during the dance competition.

In a battle of brawn, find out who will be the king of the clans in a tug-o-war, and cheer on the kilt-clad contestants aiming to win first prize in the athletic games, which include the weight toss and weight throw, tossing the sheaf the hammer throw, the stone toss and tossing the caber.

Passersby intrigued by the intoxicating aroma of Scottish shortbread can head to the Clan Tent area for the start of a culinary contest, then stay for the day's quirkiest competition, the bonniest knees contest.

In the evening, a Texas Tattoo says farewell to the setting sun on College Hill, then head to the Longhorn Room for a Texas-style Scottish soiree-- a ceilidh.

Shopping

Find a Scottish souvenir of your stay in Salado among the vendor booths in the clan tents and at the Wee Scots Shop next to the Central Texas Area museum.

When: November 13 - 15, 2009 (the grounds for the games are not officially opened until November 14th.)

Where: Salado Civic Center in Salado.

For more information:

visit www.ctam-salado.org

The Tremont House in Galveston Offering Thanksgiving Getaway Package

noreply@blogger.com (Grace Sydney) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 19:37:00 +0000

In celebration of the upcoming holiday, The Tremont House in Galveston is offering a Thanksgiving Getaway package. Step away from the stove and enjoy a Thanksgiving Dinner Buffet served on November 26 (other meals at Tremont Cafe are 20% off, excluding alcohol), then relax with a transcendental "Thank You Special for Two" treatment at The Spa at The Hotel Galvez, which also includes a 50% discount on a second spa service. Guests can also get in the spirit of the season with two tickets to the Moody Garden Festival of Lights.

Available from November 25 - 28, 2009, a two-night stay $325 can be booked for Wednesday and Thanksgiving Thursday, while a two-night stay on Thanksgiving Thursday and Friday can be booked for $395, based on double occupancy. (Couples can add an additional night for $175.) Guests staying on Friday get an additional treat, as the Hotel Galvez presents its annual holiday lighting celebration.

For more information:

visit The Tremont House

Photo courtesy The Tremont House

The Austin Celtic Festival

noreply@blogger.com (Grace Sydney) — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 17:51:00 +0000

Bagpipes beckon to residents of the live music capital of the world each fall as the annual Austin Celtic Festival gets underway by Ladybird Lake.

Events

Highland Games

Kilt-clad participants carry on a tradition reaching back to 12th century Scotland as they balance a large wooden pole in the caber toss just one of the tests of adults agility during the games. Kids can also participate in their own mini-version of the games.

History Performers

Enjoy a blast from the distant past as you watch vikings battle for victory, look on in awe at reenactors who conjure up the spirit of inhabitants from the Iron Age, and see promising Robin Hoods take aim at their target during an archery demonstration and King's Tournament.

Storytelling

The rippling water of Lake Lady Bird Lake will sound like applause as storytellers weave fanciful tales on the stage at Seelie Court.

Dancing

Tartan will twirl on stage as dancing troupes move their feet to the beat of bagpipes and bodhrans. If the beat inspires you to move your feet, there will be free dance workshops for all ages.

Animals

Furry friends will be on hand to enjoy the festivities, including Scottish Terriers, Irish Wolfhounds and Scottish Deerhounds, whose paws will promenade to the tune of a piper in the Celtic Dog Parade, while the intelligence of our tail-wagging chums will be on display during the sheep herding demonstration. (Pets will not be allowed on festival grounds due to health and safety regulations.)

Workshops

Although advanced classes require prepayment, beginners to the arts (including the Celtic guitar, Irish drums, Irish whistle, Scottish country dances, Breton dancing, Celtic poetry and more) can learn the basics at free workshops conducted both days.

Vendors

Looking for a Celtic Christmas gift? Browse among booths brimming with claddagh rings, green man garden sculptures and Celtic crosses.

When: November 7 and 8, 2009

Where: Fiesta Gardens on the shores of Lake Ladybird Lake in Austin.

For more information:

visit www.austincelticfestival.com

Get a peek at festivities in the following clip from The Daily Texan:

Hotel Galvez in Galveston Rings in The Holiday Season

noreply@blogger.com (Grace Sydney) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 20:35:00 +0000

The holidays are close at hand, Galveston's Hotel Galvez is ready to celebrate the season. Patrons can pack their suitcases for a special Thanksgiving Getaway Package stay, which features brunch for two, pickets to the Moody Gardens Festival of Lights, and transcendental treatments from The Spa at Hotel Galvez with its Thank You Special for Two with a 50% discount on a second spa service. A two night stay on Wednesday and Thanksgiving Thursday costs #369, while stays on Thanksgiving
Thursday and Friday are available for $479, based on double occupancy.

The "Queen of the Gulf" will look regal in the glow of the Holiday Lighting ceremony. an event free to the public which will take place on November 27th. Galveston's Mayor will flip the switch on the hotel's front lawn, illuminating rows of Christmas lights, their sparkle matched only by the beaming smiles of children as they have their photo taken with Santa. The Galveston Ballet will dance to the delight of both the young and the young at heart and the harmonious voices of carolers will echo in the air as the public peer at a gingerbread replica of the Hotel Galvez, while inside the real hotel adult attendees can sample specialty drinks from the lobby bar. A royal visit by "Queen Victoria" is a welcome invitation to Galveston's upcoming annual event, Dickens on The Strand.

Loving his stay in the Lone Star state, Saint Nick will make future appearances at Hotel Galvez at Sunday Brunch with Santa on December 6, 13 and 20th, when kids can once again have their picture taken with the jolly old elf. Live holiday entertainment will also keep the hotel in the holiday spirit every Friday and Saturday in December from 5 p.m. - 10 pm and on Sundays from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

For more information:

visit www.WyndhamHotelGalvez.com

Photo courtesy Mitchell Historic Properties

Rock 'n' Roll San Antonio Marathon & 1/2 Marathon Post-Concert Information

noreply@blogger.com (Grace Sydney) — Sun, 18 Oct 2009 18:30:00 +0000

After pounding the pavement, runners who competed in the second annual Rock 'n' Roll San Antonio marathon and 1/2 marathon and lovers of Lone Star music alike can move their feet to the beat of Los Lonely Boys, Grand Funk Railroad and Del Castillo during a post-race concert at the Alamodome.

Although marathon runners and the event's volunteers will be admitted free to the concert, the race is on for the general public to obtain tickets. Early birds can pay $21 online to reserve a spot, while tickets at the doors will cost $30. Tickets will also be sold during the two-day free Health & Fitness expo, which takes place in the days prior to the marathon, on November 13th and 14th. The first act will take the stage at 7 p.m., following an awards ceremony at 6:30.

When: November 15, 2009

Where: The post-race concert will be held at The Alamodome in San Antonio.

For more information on the post-race concert and the Rock 'n' Roll San Antonio Marathon and 1/2 Marathon:

visit www.runrocknroll.com

Logo courtesy Rock 'n' Roll San Antonio Marathon and 1/2 Marathon

Terrorplex Haunted Attraction in Mansfield

noreply@blogger.com (Grace Sydney) — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 18:03:00 +0000

The season for screamin' is upon us, and the foreboding attractions at Mansfield's Terrorplex promises four times the fright for fear fans.

Midnight Manor

When the clock strikes 12, will it be the dawn of a new day or dawn of the dead for those who dare to enter the lair of Dr. Morbid? A Victorian era vision by day, once the sun's light is extinguished the domain's demented denizens pass through the veil that separate living souls from the spirit world to give their guests a gruesome greeting.

Van Helsing's Haunted House of Wax

The globe's most ghastly fiends have been frozen in the form of wax figures inside Van Helsing's museum, but now the resin-encased relics have awakened. See if you can escape such classic creeps as Count Dracula, Frankenstein's monster and Leatherface.

Heavy Metal Madness

Guitar riffs drive the sane into a rabid rage within this dark den, where smoke snakes around its victim as tunes of terror make even the ears of the brave bleed.

Count Orlock's Castle of Torture

It's been said that a vampire has no soul, but some vestige of a nosferatu still seems to cling to the array of artifacts that have made their way to Mansfield, Texas. Recent sightings of the blood sucker call for an exploration of into the unexplained.....

Terrorplex Midway

Enjoy a festival atmosphere which features a DJ spinning sinister sounds, a psychic that might predict peace or peril in your future, souvenir shopping at the Gore Store, a concession area and fog machines to add to the menacing mood.

When: Open each Friday, Saturday and Sunday from September 18 - November 1, 2009.

Where: 6921 Bennett Lawson Road in Mansfield.

For more information:

visit www.terrorplex.com

Kirbyville's Car Show and BBQ Cook-Off Fundraiser

noreply@blogger.com (Grace Sydney) — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 18:13:00 +0000

Finding a way to fight crime with flair and flavor, this fall the community of Kirbyville is launching the first annual Car Show and BBQ Cook-off Fundraiser to benefit EasTex Crime Stoppers.

Events

Day One: V.I.P. Party and Concert

The price of admission may be $20 per person during the first day of festivities, but it's not a gamble to say that ticket holders will have a good time at the Texas Hold'em Tournament, where players ponying up a $50 buy in will see who is king of the cards. A live music act will provide the soundtrack to the soiree as attendees attempt to choose the choicest Lone Star cuisine during the Best BBQ Team Decoration Contest. Seats are limited for this evening-long event.

Day Two

Pledge allegiance to the red-white and blue during the opening ceremony, then head over to a display of hot rods, motorcycles and vintage vehicles that will get your motor running.

For a saw buck, you can savor samples of different cooking teams' culinary delights during the BBQ Cook-Off, where the public decides who will take home the People's Choice award.

Bid on a souvenir of your day's stay in Kirbyville at one of the live and silent auctions, then tap your feet to the beat of an array of musical acts.

When: October 23 - 24, 2009

Where: Magnolia Park/Pavilion in Kirbyville.

A Tomball Christmas

noreply@blogger.com (Grace Sydney) — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 18:03:00 +0000

The cozy community of Tomball will transform its downtown into a wintertime wonderland during a day long fröhliche Weihnachten celebration filled with festive food and fun.

Held as a part of the Second Saturday Events, Tomball denizens bring a dollop of Deutschland to the southeast Texas town as attendees clink glasses of dunkles Bier and Glühwein to the sounds of traditional German tunes, while others remember the reason for the season as a band of Christmas singers perform "Stille Nacht, Heilige Nacht."

Among the many activities for all ages:

Ice skating rink
Large outdoor movie screen
Hayrides
A tour of the Christmas lights
fireworks
unveiling of bronze statue, "The Train Conductor"
German gastronomic delights, including Christmas Stollen, apple strudel, red cabbage, bratwurst, and Kaffe und Kuchen
Vendors selling Christmas ornaments and German-inspired arts and crafts

Children's Activities: Children can make a new four-legged friend as they cuddle critters in the petting zoo and take a leisurely pony ride, or burn off excess energy as they jump for joy in a bounce house, scale a rock wall or brave a mini-bungee jump.

Admission is free and there are no parking fees.

When: December 12, 2009

Where: Events will be held in Old Town near the Train Depot Plaza at 201. S. Elm in Tomball.

For more information:

visit www.tomballsistercity.org or www.myspace.com/tgchristmas

Ghost Tours at Galveston's Hotel Galvez

noreply@blogger.com (Grace Sydney) — Sat, 03 Oct 2009 16:59:00 +0000

If you're looking for a Halloween season happening that will haunt your memory, take a tour of Galveston's historic Hotel Galvez for a possible glimpse of one of the Queen of the Gulf's ghostly guests. Although typically reserved only for those who have booked a room, this year the public can explore the mystery of the ethereal elementals which reportedly have made the hotel their otherworldly home.

A commanding presence on the Texas Gulf Coast since its construction in 1911, the Hotel Galvez may have welcomed both Presidents and paparazzi magnets over the years, but perhaps its most famous patron is the forlorn phantasm which resides in room 501. Perhaps in the hope that she would be reunited with her beau in the beyond, a young woman forfeited her life on the premises upon hearing that her seafaring fiance had met his end. Not until the sailor's return to the hotel was it was learned that the news had been false. To this day her soul is said to still wait for her love in room 501, from whose windows she had peered out on the waves which she had believed had taken him from her forever.

Hotel Galvez's sad specter is not alone as she ambles through the afterlife at the regal retreat. Visitors may also feel the presence of a friendly phantom near the portrait of Bernardo de Galvez which hangs in a hallway, or even in the ladies loo. Hotel concierge Jackie Hasan will take sightseers intrigued with the supernatural on a one hour tour of the hotel, using an electromagnetic field detector and an infrared thermometer to determine if the departed make an appearance.

Interesting Fact: The Discovery Channel series Ghost Lab will turn the spirits of Galveston into TV stars when an episode filmed at Hotel Galvez airs this fall.

Tickets for the tour are available for $10 per person at the hotel's gift shop. Ticket holders also receive a 20% discount at Bernardo's Restaurant at Hotel Galvez.

When: Tours are .conducted for the public at 5:30 p.m. each Thursday from October 8 - October 29, 2009

For more information:

visit www.hotelgalvez.com

Take a sneak peek at Hotel Galvez and its paranormal patrons in the following ABC12 Eyewitness News interview with Hotel Concierge Jackie Hasan:

Photo courtesy Mitchell Historic Properties

Thrillvania Thrill Park in Terrell

noreply@blogger.com (Grace Sydney) — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 17:30:00 +0000

As though rising from the depths of Hell itself, belching flames intermittently
illuminate the night sky over a secluded section of Terrell, Texas each fall, beckoning unwitting wanderers to enter the lair of lycanthrope Baron Michael Verdun and his blood-sucking bride, Lady Cassandra. Meeting a gruesome end many years ago, their evil lives on in the 50 acres that surround their demonic domain.....

Along with the teeth-chattering tour of Verdun Manor, seven other terrifying attractions makes this a fright night to remember:

Dr. Lycan's Trail of Torment

Horrific hybrids will haunt your dreams after you stroll through a graveyard hunting ground for scientist Baron Verdun's psychotic subjects.

Maze of Chaos

Lost your way? You just might also lose your mind if you linger too long in this labyrinth of lunacy.

Granny Lupus' Seance Theatre

The departed denizens of this depraved domicile are reawakened by an animatronic elder in a "spirit"ed show.

Cassandra's Labyrinth of Terror

Lady Cassandra D' Arque lost her head long ago, and now her mission is to make you lose yours.....

Voodoo Bayou

Visitors of Verdun Manor are just a heartbeat away from horror as villainous ghouls vying for victims invade the grounds.

Six Feet Blunder

Sit down for a spell and watch as special effects bring mortuary madness to life in a 4-D experience that will turn your blood cold as the embalming fluid begins to flow.

Thorn Hall

Mortimer Thorn stabs at your senses in this black-as-night foray into fright.

Recognition: The mayhem of Thrillvania Thrill Park has been immortalized on The Travel Channel's "America's Scariest Haunted Attractions."

When: Opening weekend September 25th and 36; also open October 2nd and 3rd, then every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from October 9 - Halloween.

Where: Interstate 20 and Wilson Road in Terrell, Texas.

For more information:

visit www.thrillvania.com

NYLO Dallas/Las Colinas Celebrates Grand Opening

noreply@blogger.com (Grace Sydney) — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 16:29:00 +0000

As the saying goes, everything is bigger in Texas, and Lone Star soirees are no exception to the rule. On August 20, 2009 more than 1,000 guests gathered to celebrate the grand opening of NYLO Dallas/Las Colinas, The Big D's newest chic retreat.

The party for the popular property was held at The Loft-- the hotel's restaurant/bar-- spilling out into the adjoining ballroom and patio, where attendees sampled ambulatory appetizers , so to speak, with servers styled in hoop skirts which transformed into buffet tables brimming with such culinary creations of mini lobster sliders, sushi and sesame-seared tuna. Inside The Loft, guests rank up the upscale atmosphere as they ordered such creative cocktails as a Lexus Lemonade with VOX Vodka before taking a stroll into the library, where they enjoyed a tasty teaming of tried and true Texas fare and contemporary cuisine as Johnny Lloyd Rollins and a deejay provided the soundtrack for the evening.

A happening with heart, an art auction was conducted to benefit the Make a Wish Foundation. Party-goers also had the opportunity to admire the works of art by local artists which adorn the hotel guestrooms, including "Longhorn Love" by Jennifer Moreman.

Mark your social calendar for upcoming events at NYLO Dallas/Las Colinas, which include a Halloween party and a symphony orchestra gala.

For more information:

visit www.nylohotels.com/lascolinas

Photo courtesy NYLO Dallas/Las Colinas

Cedar Park Center Adds Final Touches

noreply@blogger.com (Paris and John) — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 01:00:00 +0000

Today we checked out the almost-completed Cedar Park Center, the new $55 million facility in Cedar Park. The opening of the center will be marked on September 25 with a concert by George Strait and Lee Ann Womack.

The arena expects to host over 120 events during its first year. The facility will be the home of the Texas Stars in their first year with the American Hockey League.

Where: The arena is located at 183A and New Hope Road in Cedar Park, 20 minutes northwest of downtown Austin.

For More Information:

visit http://www.cedarparkcenter.com

Galveston's Haunted Happenings in October

noreply@blogger.com (Grace Sydney) — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 16:47:00 +0000

As Halloween approaches, Galveston is offering a number of "spirit"ed tours that may provide proof that some of the city's dearly departed denizens may still consider the Gulf Coast area home.

Each Tuesday through Saturday in October at 7:30 and 6 p.m. on Sundays, paranormal professional Dash Beardsley of Ghost Tours of Galveston will take tourists on a two-hour trip back in time. Starting at the Railroad Museum at 25th and Strand, where a headless haunt is said to hover, the sojourn into the supernatural continues at a former bank building, where sightseers can search for a sighting of a police officer from yesteryear who lost his life at the site. Before the "Boo"fest concludes, a visit to an old infirmary which once gave shelter to Civil War soldiers may offer a viewing of an incorpeal vision.

For more information:

visit Galveston Ghost Tours

The Galveston Historical Foundation is offering three haunted happenings tours throughout the month of October:

Guests arriving for a one-hour tour of Ashton Villa (seen in the photo to the right) will be greeted by a guide, but perhaps also by the ghost of Miss Bettie, the daughter of the Italianate mansion's original owner whose ethereal presence reportedly lingers among the family heirlooms. Visitors will get an up close look at the restoration of the residence's ground floor after the devastation of Hurricane Ike, and walk through the send floor, which remains just as it was in Miss Bettie's day. Ashton Villa's Are We Haunted? tour will take place throughout the month each Friday at 5, 7 and 9 p.m. and on Halloween at 3 and 5 p.m.

Seafaring specters might be spotted at the Haunted Harbor Tours aboard Seagull II. One-hour tours will take place every Friday and Saturday at 4:30 pm. at the Texas Seaport Museum, Pier 21, and on October 30th and 31st at 4:30 and 6 p.m.

As a person remembered never truly dies, pay your respects to the residents of seven Broadway Cemeteries during a guided tour of the grounds. Perhaps a few phantoms will cross the veil to welcome visitors on October 29th, 30th and 31st at 6:30 and 8 p.m.

For more information:

visit The Galveston Historical Foundation

East Texas Yamboree in Gilmer

noreply@blogger.com (Grace Sydney) — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 21:08:00 +0000

A Lone Star tradition since 1937, the tiny town of Gilmer greet more than 100,000 guests in October for a salute to the sweet potato during the yearly Yamboree.

Events

Classic car enthusiasts will get revved up over the vintage vehicles on display at the antique automobile show.

Look for the Junior Livestock Show each day of the festival.

Americana at its best, folks can wave to the Queen's court during a parade.

Competitions

The sweet potato takes center stage in several culinary-inspired contests, including the yam growing and yam pie competitions, while a variety of vegetables, fruits, sauces and jams vie for first prize in the home canning competitions.

For spectators in search of food for the soul, stop by the fiddler's contest to cheer on participants from all age groups, then get an introspective look at life as seen through the lens in the photography contest exhibition and check out the works of promising Picassos in both the Junior and Senior Art Show contests.

Burn off any calories gained from eating sweet potato treats at the Tater Trot, which will feature both 10k and 2k runs.

From trombones to trumpets, competitors get ready to strike up the band in the marching contest. A staple of the four-day festival for the past 40 years, prizes will be awarded for best majorette line, outstanding drum major, first division bands and outstanding band in each class.

Entertainment

Gilmer Civic Center will play host to the heavenly sounds of Southern gospel, while country crooners will get your toes tapping during the barn dance at Trinity Street Gym.

Children's Activities: let the giggles and squeals of delight guide you to the carnival area, where

When: October 14 - 17, 2009

Where: Events take place at the Upshur County Courthouse, Trinity Street Gym and Yamboree Park in Gilmer, Texas.

For more information:

visit www.yamboree.com

Photo courtesy Big Stock Photo

Scarecrow Invasion and Comfort Village Fall Antiques Show in Comfort

noreply@blogger.com (Grace Sydney) — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 18:53:00 +0000

Warding off blackbirds may be their traditional function, but the array of scarecrows standing outside the houses of the tiny town of Comfort each autumn seem to take on the role of a greeting committee, their outstretched arms waiting to give visitors arriving for the Comfort Village Antiques Show a welcoming hug.

In celebration of the harvest season, the straw sentinels which appear each year have fast become local celebrities in the town dubbed "The Star of the Texas Hill County," complete with competitions for the town's best bird control structure. Sightings of the scarecrows, which occur in mid-October, coincides with the annual antiques event, where visitors can search for that elusive Shawnee vase or McCoy cookie jar amid covered booths brimming with treasures of times gone by.

When: The Comfort Village Fall Antiques Show is held October 17th and 18th; the Scarecrow Invasion will take place between October 15th and November 2nd.

Where: Downtown Comfort.

For more information:

visit The Comfort Chamber of Commerce

Photo courtesy Nicole Welch; Comfort Chamber of Commerce

Kolache Festival in Caldwell

noreply@blogger.com (Grace Sydney) — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 18:14:00 +0000

The residents of The Kolache Capital of Texas know that fruit, meat or cheese wrapped inside a bread roll makes a tasty Czech pastry, and that a dash of cultural pride mixed with a soupcon of sentimentality provide the perfect ingredients for a fun festival.

Since 1984, the citizens of Caldwell have honored their ancestry each second Saturday in September with a day of demonstrations, displays and diversions that revive the memory of the Czech forefathers who started a new life in the area. The festival's more than 20,000 visitors can get an up close look at the threads that bind the town's present to the people of its past at a quilt show, marvel at the artistry on display at egg decorating (kraslice) and stenciling demonstrations and be entertained by dancers who perform in two-four time to an array of polka tunes.

Foodies can please their palates with Czech cuisine, including the treat that the town is famous for, which is the star of the kolache-eating contest. Be sure to buy a few kolaches before your ride home-- they will be a sweet reminder of your stay in Burleson County.

When: September 12, 2009

Where: On the square in downtown Caldwell.

For more information:

visit www.burlesoncountytx.com

Photo courtesy Burleson County Chamber of Commerce

NYLO Dallas/Las Colinas Hotel Opens

noreply@blogger.com (Grace Sydney) — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 21:30:00 +0000

Having made its debut in July, the NYLO Dallas/Las Colinas is the latest luxury boutique retreat in the Big D area.

Offering a touch of elegance from the moment patrons enter the lobby, staff stylishly suited in uniforms designed by Project Runway competitor Daniel Vosovic greet guests who have booked a stay in one of the hotel's 200 rooms or five suites, which feature beds draped in down comforters, custom duvets, and cotton-rich linens; 32" flat-screen TVs and in-room safes.

Six meeting rooms and 7,000 sq. ft. of event space are available for business travelers, who can make use of the hotel's wired and wireless internet, cordless speakerphones and voice mail, as well as faxing, scanning and copying services.

Business travelers and tourists alike can rejuvenate in the 24-hour fitness center or unwind with a Nintendo Wii game or a round of billiards in The Library, then take a dip in one of two heated pools before ordering a drink from the outdoor bar and slipping inside a cabana for a little R&R in The Courtyard.

Patrons can please their palates at the restaurant and sushi bar located at The Loft, the social sanctuary which also encompasses the library, business center and game lounge.

The eco-friendly hotel has made steps to "go green" for its guests by using low wattage light bulbs throughout the hotel, carrying exclusive NYLO bath and body products packaged in recycled bottles, offering recycled paper in meeting rooms and guest rooms, and opting for energy efficient brick and concrete construction.

NYLO Dallas/Las Colinas is conveniently located nine miles from the Dallas/Fort Worth Airport in Irving.

For more information:

visit www.nylohotels.com/lascolinas

Hyatt Hill Country Resort and Spa's First Hill Country Halloween This October

noreply@blogger.com (Grace Sydney) — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 20:59:00 +0000

For a frightfully fun time this All Hallow's Eve, book a stay at the Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa in San Antonio during their first ever Hill Country Halloween, taking place October 30 and 31, 2009!

On day one, decipher whodunit during a Murder Mystery Dinner at Antlers Lodge, then sink your teeth into some S'mores as terrifying tales unfold over an open fire. After an outdoor movie for the mini-monsters, the late night fun has just begun as grown-up ghouls get ready to do the time warp during a showing of the camp classic Rocky Horror Picture Show.

Say "Boo!" on day two at Spooktacular Central, a pumpkin patch party where everyone from tiny terrors to their Mummies and Dads will be gussied up in Fright Night fashion. See if the gruesome grin you've carved can win a pumpkin-carving contest, then move to the groove of some terrifyingly good tunes at the Halloween Bash. Finally, dine on some devilishly decadent dishes at dinner, then mosey in the moonlight along Aunt Mary's Trick or Treat Haunted Trail, where you can tickle your taste buds at 12 different candy stations.

For more information:

visit www.hillcountry.hyatt.com

Hotel Palomar Dallas Offers Summer Playground Package

noreply@blogger.com (Grace Sydney) — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 16:54:00 +0000

Going on through Labor Day, you can hula hoop your way to a reduced rate stay at Kimpton's Hotel Palomar Dallas. As part of their Summer Playground package, guests who can keep the childhood toy in motion for one minute will receive a 50% discount on a room, while just 20 seconds worth of hula hoop rotation is good for a free room upgrade (at check-in, based on availability.)

The Summer Playground Package at Kimpton's Hotel Palomar Dallas offers:

overnight accommodations

$25 credit for food and drinks

A free in-room movie and popcorn

Patrons booking the special Summer Playground package can also tap their feet to the beat of summertime tunes while sampling complimentary sangria and Blythe Bites created by Blythe Beck, Executive Chef of Central 214. Held during the hotel's wine hour, the daily get together of guests also includes Wii competitions in tennis, golf and baseball.

Summer Playground package rates start at $199 per night. The offer is available through September 7, 2009.

For more information:

visit www.hotelpalomar-dallas.com To make a reservation, enter PLGD in the rate code box.

Call 1-800-KIMPTON and ask for the Summer Playground package.

Photo courtesy Hotel Palomar Dallas

XIT Rodeo and Reunion in Dalhart

noreply@blogger.com (Grace Sydney) — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 18:17:00 +0000

Stretching over 10 counties, the XIT Ranch was the pride of the Texas Panhandle in the late 19th century. Those glory days may be gone, but the spirit of this lost Lone Star treasure lives on in the townspeople's annual ode.

Rodeo Events: The wranglers of the XIT Ranch would be proud of the cowboys who courageously enter the arena to test their talent in saddle bronc riding, barrel racing and wild cow milking events. Younger cowpokes also have a chance to show off their skills at the junior rodeo, which features flag racing, barrel racing, calf raiding and breakaway roping.

Parade: As kids clamor for the candy tosses toward spectators, a plethora of patriotic flags wave a welcome to the array of riders of horseback, floats, vintage vehicles and rodeo royalty during a parade which makes its way down Dalhart's streets.

Music: Get ready for some boot-scootin' boogie to the beat of the bevy of country and western bands that take the stage each evening at the Rita Blaca Coliseum.

Food: If you've rustled up an appetite after the day's excitement, mosey over and get in the chow line for free food! Each evening patrons can partake of complimentary cuisine, with one evening set aside for watermelon, another for pork chops, and the final night features the world's largest free barbecue!

Other Activities: Lace up your sneakers for a one-mile fun run, tap your feet at a fiddler's contest and learn the history of one of the world's most famous ranches during a tour of the XIT museum.

When: August 6 - 8, 2009

Where: Events take place at the XIT Rodeo Arena and the Rita Blaca Coliseum.

For more information:

visit www.xit-rodeo.com

Plano Balloon Festival Celebrates 30th Year

noreply@blogger.com (Grace Sydney) — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 18:03:00 +0000

Just like the lyrics of The 5th Dimension's '60's classic, let your imagination float "Up, Up and Away" as 100 beautiful hot air balloons fill the Lone Star skies for three days in September. More than 75,000 spectators are expected to gather at Plano's Oak Point Park to watch the largest balloon festival in the state, with not only five launches but also an array of other aerial activities, including sky divers and a fireworks display.

For those who wish to hover in the heavens, balloon rides will be available at $250 per person, with tickets distributed before each launch on a first come, first served basis.

If you plan to keep your feet firmly planted on terra firma, you can stroll for souvenirs among arts and crafts booths brimming with bargains, tap your toes at a concert on Saturday night, and watch the rainbow-colored envelopes light up like fireflies in the dark during balloon glows on Friday and Saturday night.

Children's Activities: Little ones can draw and paint their flights of fancy at the "Kids Korner" art activity area, bounce on inflatable rides and conquer a rock climbing wall at the Kids Fun Zone.

Tickets: Price of a one-time admission is $5, $8 for a two-time admission per person. A per person discount of $4 is available from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., and seniors 65 and over get a $1 off discount. Children under 36 inches will be admitted free of charge.

When: September 18 - 20, 2009

Where: Oak Point Park at 2801 E. Spring Creek Parkway in Plano.

For more information:

visit www.planoballoonfest.org or www.planocvb.net.

Photo courtesy Tucker PR

The Tremont House in Galveston Offers Summer on Sale Special

noreply@blogger.com (Grace Sydney) — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 21:15:00 +0000

Although the flood waters from Hurricane Ike brought destruction to the Galveston area in late 2008, time and tide has brought rebirth to one of the city's treasures, Tremont House, a Wyndham historic hotel. Recently restored to its former glory after its first floor suffered damage, the landmark venue is inviting guests to celebrate its rejuvenation with a Summer on Sale special.

Patrons who make reservations by July 31, 2009 for a stay of three or more consecutive nights from now through September 8, 2009 will receive a 30% discount. Guests checking in during the month of July will also enjoy a complimentary breakfast, a 25% discount on food from Olympia The Grill at Pier 21 and a 15% discount on transcendental treatments from The Spa at Hotel Galvez.

The arrival of August will bring the opening of a new Tremont Cafe, where guests can sip Starbucks coffee and dine on pastry or pizza in front of 42-inch plasma TVs or check their e-mails in an Internet booth complete with complimentary Internet wireless service and printing capabilities. The eatery will serve breakfast, lunch and dinner and will provide meals for room service.

For more information:

visit www.WyndhamTremontHouse.com

Photo courtesy the Tremont House