With awards including the "Least Hipster City" in the US, the #1 spot in the nation to retire, and the second happiest city in Texas, Grand Prairie is a diverse and unique place. Grand Prairie, established in 1863, has transformed over the years from a primarily rural and agricultural community to a thriving metropolitan city. Known for its diverse cultures, nightlife, shopping, and recreational opportunities, there's never a shortage of things to do in this bustling Texas city.
Annual Grand Prairie Events
Each year, Grand Prairie hosts several events. Some celebrate established holidays, while others pay tribute to the area's food and natural wonders. No matter what you're searching for, there's an activity in Grand Prairie for everyone.
Kids Fishing Day
Each year in February, Grand Prairie's parks and recreation department hosts a day of fishing for children. The event is free for children up to age 16. Before the event, the state's Parks and Wildlife Department stocks the lagoon at Mike Lewis Park with trout. Children are encouraged to bring their own fishing rods and equipment, but there are also loaner supplies available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Prairie Lights
The spectacular Prairie Lights festival takes place each year during the holiday season. Among its spectacles are the drive-through lights, shopping, and pictures with Santa. The entrance to the event features over four million colorful lights lining a two-mile stretch of road. The lights feature new shapes and designs each year. The splendor continues with the Holiday Village, which is a festive collection of holiday-themed gifts, food, carnival rides, and more. Children can get their pictures taken with Santa at the popular event or enjoy a stroll through the walk-through magic light forest with thousands of lights set up across the city's downtown trees. The forest also has a cultural element with scenes showing how the holiday season is celebrated around the world.
Main Street Fest
Each year, the Main Street Fest encourages residents and visitors to enjoy all that the city has to offer. This annual event takes place during the last weekend in April. Admission is free, and attendees can enjoy live entertainment, locally made food, and a lively carnival. There are also arts and crafts stations where people can make their own souvenirs. The festival also has a kid zone with exciting activities for young visitors and a beer garden where adults can relax and socialize while enjoying local and imported beer.
Hatch Chile Festival
For those who like spicy food, a visit to the Hatch Chile Festival is essential. The festival is held in the downtown farmer's market in the spring. The star attraction of the festival is the hatch chile, which is sold raw, roasted, or cooked into delicious dishes. Along with the famous chiles, the event features homemade baked goods and produce for sale. Coffee, jelly, preserves, and tea are other goods sold at the event.
Grand Prairie's Attractions
Along with its lively annual events, Grand Prairie has many great places to visit throughout the year. From natural areas to amusement parks, its long list of attractions leaves nothing out.
Cedar Ridge Preserve
Located on the outskirts of Grand Prairie, Cedar Ridge Preserve is an oasis from the urban landscape and fast-paced life of the city. The preserve covers more than 600 acres of land. Its trail system offers visitors a chance to admire the scenery as they hike or mountain bike through the property. The site is also great for wildlife viewing and bird watching.
Ripley's Believe It or Not! Museum
This fascinating museum features oddities such as rare animal skeletons and shrunken human heads on display. It also has a collection of full-size wax figures and a gravity-defying vortex tunnel. The museum's timed laser tag is a challenging but rewarding game, while its 7D movie theater gives visitors a unique screen-watching experience. In addition to its displays and exhibits, the museum features a packed calendar with events and activities providing fun for all ages, such as family painting nights.
As a proud resident of Grand Prairie, you're probably eager to find ways to contribute to the city's award-winning history. A good place to start is in your own backyard. With the help of Lawn Love, Grand Prairie's lawn care professionals, you can get a beautiful and healthy yard in no time that the critics (and your neighbors) will approve of. Contact us today to learn more about our services and give your lawn some professional TLC.
