Despite the fact that it's existed since the 1800s, there is nothing old-fashioned about Southlake today. Southlake is home to just under 30,000 residents. It is part of the greater Dallas-Fort Worth region and provides a large assortment of events, activities, and attractions for residents and visitors to enjoy.
Southlake's origins date back to the 1840s when it was first settled. However, it was not until the 1950s that the city was formally incorporated with its current name. Although the area is now a cohesive city, it combines the formerly separate communities of Jellico, Union Church, Dove, and Whites Chapel. Unlike neighboring cities, Southlake's economy didn't transition for rural to more industrial until the 1970s when the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport arrived. Now, the city is a thriving place with many special yearly events and attractions to visit year-round.
Annual Events
While there are many premier places to check out in Southlake throughout the year, there are also some special holiday, cultural, and athletic events that residents look forward to every year. Collectively, they show the area's love of art, music, good food, the seasons, and more.
Art in the Square
Art in the Square is an event that celebrates the arts. The event, which is judged, draws some of the top art talent from the Dallas-Fort Worth region and across Texas. The festival launched in the year 2000, and it quickly gained prominence for its prestigious nature. Now, it is considered one of the top 10 arts events in the nation. While the competition might be fierce, the atmosphere is one of fun and celebration with live musical entertainment, vendors selling food and drinks, and a children's zone with arts and crafts, games, and other children's activities. More than 145 artists compete in the event each year.
Oktoberfest
Modeled after the original festival in Germany, Southlake's version is just as lively. This event is held in October each year. Its highlights include, of course, food and beer. However, the Southlake version is designed to be a family-friendly weekend of festivities. In addition to the usual attractions, it also includes a kid's area and a sports zone where festival attendees can participate in a variety of recreational athletic endeavors. The event, which is hosted on the town square, also includes vendors selling everything from homemade food to jewelry, handmade gifts, arts, crafts, and more. Dog races are also a highlight of the Oktoberfest celebration.
Home for the Holidays
Every November, the city kicks off the start of the holiday season with a two-month long event. The event includes Christmas-themed activities like a snow hill, horse-drawn carriage rides, and photo opportunities with Santa. As Christmas gets closer, the annual tree-lighting ceremony joins the list of events. The town's square is filled with light and cheer as lights decorate the streets and local shops stay open for business. Holiday music and treats are also part of the festive event.
Outdoor Attractions in Southlake
When there's not a holiday celebration taking place or a competitive art show to watch, there are plenty of ways to get outside and enjoy Southlake's climate and natural beauty.
Bob Jones Nature Center
Covering more than 750 acres of land, the Bob Jones Nature Center is one of the go-to places in Southlake if you're looking for a quiet escape from city life. Green fields, woods, and waterways cover this nature center, which has more than 20 miles of trails available for recreational use.
Bob Jones Park
Closer to the center of the city is the Bob Jones Park, which is a popular outdoor area for families, children, and pets. The park contains something to keep everyone happy with athletic fields, dog parks, and picnic areas. There is also a playground for children, and the park even has several places to go fishing. The city periodically hosts special events here too, such as an annual Easter egg hunt in April.
No matter when you visit, there's always plenty to see and do in vibrant Southlake, Texas. Even though it is close to Dallas and Fort Worth, the city still retains many elements of its agricultural past. Even though your property may not cover hundreds of acres, you can still make it a lush space that you're proud to show off. From gardening to pruning and weeding, turn to Lawn Love, your local lawn care professionals, for assistance in transforming your yard from mean to green.
