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Kathy Beazley
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Photo credit Social House Entertainment

The ultimate fusion of hip-hop, tacos, and tequila just got even hotter! The 4th annual Tacos and Tequila Festival at Panther Island Pavilion on May 17 is turning up the heat with four legendary new additions to its already stacked lineup: Pretty Ricky, Soulja Boy, Mike Jones, and Petey Pablo!

These hip-hop heavyweights will join an already mind-blowing roster featuring Busta Rhymes, Timbaland, Trina, Trick Daddy, Frankie J, Mims, and DJ Ashton Martin. Fans of 90s and 2000s hip-hop are in for an unforgettable, nostalgia-packed party filled with classic hits, hand-crafted margaritas, and the best tacos North Texas has to offer.

Meet the Newest Additions to the Lineup:

  • Pretty Ricky – This Miami-based R&B/hip-hop group dominated the 2000s with hits like “Grind On Me” and “On The Hotline.” Their 2007 album Late Night Special debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200, solidifying their place in hip-hop history.
  • Soulja Boy – The mastermind behind “Crank That (Soulja Boy),” which took over the charts and dance floors worldwide in 2007. A true internet pioneer, Soulja Boy changed the game with his viral approach to music.
  • Mike Jones – WHO? Mike Jones! The Houston rap legend made waves with “Still Tippin’” and “Back Then” in the mid-2000s, bringing Southern rap to the mainstream with his unforgettable hooks and self-promotion.
  • Petey Pablo – The North Carolina native and “Freek-a-Leek” hitmaker turned up the energy in the early 2000s, with his GRAMMY-nominated debut album Diary of a Sinner: 1st Entry proving his staying power.

The party just got even wilder! These hip-hop icons are linking up with an already fire lineup, making this the ultimate throwback bash you don’t want to miss!

  • Busta Rhymes – Grammy-nominated rapper and former member of Leaders of the New School. Gained fame with A Tribe Called Quest’s “Scenario” before launching a successful solo career with hits like Woo Hah!! Got You All in Check and Break Ya Neck.
  • Timbaland – Grammy-winning producer and artist known for shaping modern hip-hop and R&B. He made his mark with Aaliyah’s One in a Million and has produced hits for Missy Elliott, Jay-Z, and Justin Timberlake.
  • Trina – “The Baddest” female rapper, who broke out with Trick Daddy’s Nann Nigga and later delivered gold-certified hits like Here We Go with Kelly Rowland. Recognized as one of hip-hop’s most consistent female artists.
  • Trick Daddy – Miami rap legend behind I’m a Thug, Nann Nigga, and Shut Up. Achieved platinum success with Thugs Are Us and seven consecutive Top 10 R&B/Hip-Hop albums.
  • Frankie J – Mexican-American singer and former Kumbia Kings member. Transitioned to a successful solo career with Obsession (No Es Amor) and a Grammy-nominated Latin pop album.
  • Mims – Best known for This Is Why I’m Hot, which topped the Billboard Hot 100 in 2006. He built his career independently before signing with a major label and launching Music Is My Savior.
  • DJ Ashton Martin – High-energy DJ known for genre-blending mixes and electrifying live performances.

Beyond the beats, the festival serves up a feast for the senses with:

  • The area’s best tacos and other tasty treats
  • Handcrafted margaritas
  • Tequila Shot Bars
  • Lucha Libre wrestling
  • Exotic car showcase (Bring your cool car and register HERE.)
  • Chihuahua beauty pageant (Register your chihuahua HERE.)
  • Salsa & Queso Competition
  • Art installations & photo ops

North Texas’ top food trucks and restaurants, including Flores Home Cooking, Salmark BBQ, BRT Smoked Tex Mex, Los Brothers, K-Che Tacos, Doss Tastebudz, Holy Frijole, MexiBoujee Tacos, Taqueria El Michoacano, The Cookie Crave, Frezko Taco Spot, Arvizu’s Taqueria, Alley Trap Fin & Wings, Nana Dot's Southern Sweets and La Bandida Street Food, will be serving up mouth-watering delectables from tacos and elote to barbecue and traditional festival eats to keep the party fueled.

Get Your Tickets Before They’re Gone!

  • $69 General Admission - limited time offer
  • $99 General Admission for 2
  • $149 VIP - limited time offer
  • VIP Party Deck Pass available - pricing varies

This 21+ event is your excuse to leave the kids at home, grab your crew, and turn up the nostalgia. Tickets available at: www.tacosandtequilaDFW.com

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Sponsors

Special thanks to our sponsors: Social House Entertainment, Tixr, Cayman Jack, White Claw Hard Seltzer, Majic 94.5 and 97.9 The Beat.

About Tacos and Tequila Festival

The Tacos and Tequila Festival is a multi-city celebration of hip-hop, incredible food, and craft tequila. Having captivated audiences in San Antonio, Dallas/Fort Worth, Kansas City, Milwaukee, Sioux Falls, and Winnipeg, this high-energy event continues to bring fans back to the golden era of hip-hop with legendary performances and an unbeatable festival atmosphere.

About Social House Entertainment

Social House Entertainment is a full-scale event production company born out of Kansas City. We specialize in producing large scale music festivals in unique outdoor venues, specialized community events, food, and beer festivals and many other types of events of all sizes. We are passionate about elevating live event experiences all around North America.

Kathy Beazley
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Photo credit Sneaker Haven

Sneaker Haven, the ultimate destination for sneaker enthusiasts, is celebrating its newest location, a brand-new store in Watters Creek Village in Allen, with a grand opening event on Sunday, March 23, 2 to 3 p.m., at 873 Watters Creek Boulevard. At the free event, attendees can enjoy perusing the newest collection of shoes, entering giveaways and raffles, and taking pictures with Dallas Stars players Ilya Lyubushkin and Evgenii Dadonov. Allen-based MonkeySports will also give away sports equipment and gift cards to attendees celebrating Sneaker Haven’s grand opening.

As the premier sneaker and streetwear boutique, Sneaker Haven offers a curated collection of sought-after footwear, apparel and accessories from top brands, including Nike, Supreme, Jordan, Off-White and more. Sneaker Haven buys new and gently used sneakers from collectors and sells only new collectible merchandise in store, as well as offering an authenticity guarantee. 

“Our goal is to transform the sneaker resale landscape,” said Justin Viel, a self-proclaimed sneakerhead who started buying and selling collectible tennis shoes as a young teen growing up in Lucas. “I always wanted to create a space where people could come in and ogle over the shoes and try them on. Everything here is brand-new and we take authenticity super-seriously. We want to be the place where everyone in the community feels welcome and appreciated.”

Offering the level of customer service they personally want in a sneaker store is important to Sneaker Haven’s owners, Justin Viel, Haris Khan and Walker Scheer. Viel and Khan discovered their shared love of buying and selling premium sneakers as high school students. They would run into each other in the school bathroom, where they had each escaped to so they could purchase exclusive sneakers online as they dropped and before they sold out. Viel met Scheer while standing in line for hours for the drop of another coveted sneaker. “We all started as kids wanting to get into buying and selling shoes,” Viel explained.

 

Appealing to all types of sneaker enthusiasts, from the die-hard sneakerhead to the casual sneaker wearer, Sneaker Haven offers new shoes for men, women and children, offering shoes in sizes starting at 3.5 in youth and 5 in women’s, all the way through size 13 for men. 

 

From fashion-forward kids and teens who spend time following all the latest shoe releases to adult professionals feeling nostalgic for the desired sneakers from their youth, Sneaker Haven offers a convenient front door to the exciting and growing world of collectible tennis shoes. Sneakers in the store range in cost from $110 a pair to $10,000 for highly collectible pairs. Sneaker Haven is the only collectible sneaker store in the DFW area with a return policy and a guarantee for authenticity. The store also offers other athletic-inspired gear, such as the original DALLAS Haven Hoodies, designed by Viel’s fiancé, Valerie Wu and known for their comfortable cut.

Viel and Khan are 2019 graduates of Lovejoy High School in Lucas, and they’re proud to employ a team of 10 sneakerheads, many of whom are students or graduates of area high schools. When considering where to open their newest Sneaker Haven, Watters Creek Village in Allen was high on their list.

“I grew up in Lucas, and Watters Creek was the shopping area where we hung out. I would go there all the time,” Viel said. “Once we heard that the ownership group that owned Highland Park Village, HP Village Partners, now owned it, we wanted to be there. We know how important it is to be in an area with good owners and managers.”

When asked what the coolest pair of shoes Sneaker Haven at Watters Creek Village has in store, Viel was quick to answer: “The craziest shoes we have right now are two pairs of Nike Air Yeezeys, which are from before Kanye went to Adidas. They are brand new, in the box, dust bag and everything!” he said. 

“I’m still a sneaker head at the end of the day! It’s hard not to nerd out,” Viel laughed.

For more information about the event and Sneaker Haven, visit sneakerhaven.shop or follow the store on Instagram @sneakerhaven.tx. The store is open Monday through Friday, 12 to 8 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Sunday 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Watters Creek Village is a unique, resort-style mixed-use development. With its vertically dense design, this 52-acre project incorporates a complete mix of uses including a large creekside village green, interactive public art, a variety of retail options, restaurants featuring al fresco dining and water views, and office space and residential lofts. The lifestyle destination’s purpose is to enhance communities, enrich lives, and create extraordinary environments. Watters Creek Village is committed to making a positive impact, always seeking ways to make a difference, honoring the destination’s connection to the community and the environment. When the property opened in May 2008, it was the first retail development in Texas to be LEED certified by the U.S. Green Building Council.  Watters Creek Village is located at U.S. Highway 75 and Bethany Drive at 970 Garden Park Drive in Allen, Texas.  For more information, call 972-747-8000 or visit watterscreek.com. Connect with Watters Creek Village @WattersCreek on Facebook and @WattersCreek on Instagram.

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Old World Meets New Wine Dinner Experience at McRae’s American Bistro & Cocktails

Enjoy a culinary experience featuring one of California’s exceptional wineries, Peirano Estate Vineyards. “The Other Wine” dinner promises a memorable menu, each course complemented by a perfectly selected wine.

This special dinner begins at 6:30pm on April 1 for $75/person. Reservations are required.

The evening menu begins with Popcorn/Chicken Salad, paired with Peirano Estate Vineyards Chardonnay. Entrees to follow include a rich Espresso Cured Pork Belly with Smoked Gouda Grits and Sauteed Spinach, paired with The Sea Enchantress, Red Blend and a tender Pistachio Crusted Venison Tenderloin served with Parmesan Potato Pave and Green Beans, paired with The Other, Cabernet Blend. The wine dinner menu concludes with a luscious S’mores Cheesecake and The Immortal, Zinfandel.

Please call 214-792-9944 to make a reservation. See the full menu at https://mcraesamericanbistro.com/peirano-wine-dinner/

The award-winning McRae’s American Bistro & Cocktails is located at 9913 Garland Road in East Dallas near White Rock Lake and offers an intimate and eclectic dining experience. With a loyal following, McRae’s continues to make a name for itself recently receiving four Gold awards in the Dallas Morning News “Best in DFW” – Best Cocktail Bar, Best Brunch, Best Martini, Best Outdoor Dining, and a Silver award for Best Date Night Spot.

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You’ve picked your bracket. Now what’s next? Kenny’s East Coast Pizza in Plano is inviting everyone to celebrate March Madness today through the end of the NCAA tourney with a fun fusion food!

The all-new Pizza Quesadilla will be available for dine in, take out and delivery.

At lunch, guests can enjoy a combo featuring the Pizza Quesadilla with a side Caesar salad for $13.99. Im the evenings, the tasty treat is served as an appetizer for $12.99. The Pizza Quesadilla is stuffed with house-made red sauce, pepperoni, sausage, Monterey Jack and mozzarella and is served with sides of ranch and red sauce.

Or, those seeking a real game-day celebration can order a March Madness Combo, which includes a Pizza Quesadilla with five enormous whole chicken wings tossed in your choice of Parmesan Garlic, BBQ or Ranch. This massive treat is $26.99.

 

 

Kenny’s East Coast Pizza

4701 W. Park Blvd.

Plano, TX 75093

(972) 519-9669

 

kennyseastcoastpizza.com

11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday

11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday

 

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With spring in the air and patio season here, Galleria Dallas is embracing all things fresh and new with a vibrant market in the shopping center’s revamped outdoor plaza. The space will be transformed with captivating décor and music on Friday, April 4 and Saturday, April 5.

 

Good Market celebrates local entrepreneurs and the small businesses they own. The market will feature more than 10 curated vendors selling a variety of specialty goods, including handmade leather goods, jewelry and unique textiles. Dallas-based Gelato La Boca will pop up with a gelato cart serving refreshing artisanal Argentine gelato throughout the event.

 

 

 

Vendors at Good Market will donate 10% of sales during the weekend to Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center, Galleria Dallas’ charity partner for the month of April. The nonprofit will also have a booth at the market to introduce shoppers to their cause and welcome contributions supporting the mission of improving the lives of abused children in Dallas County and providing national leadership on child abuse issues.

 

Good Market vendors include:

 

  • Byndr Leather Goods, handmade leather goods created in Dallas and made to last a lifetime
  • Castillo de Flores, a maker of one-of-a-kind floral arrangements that help recipients remember to keep blooming
  • Cool Crayations, a shop selling cool crayons in designs that empower and educate children
  • Gelato La Boca, a pop-up gelato cart serving refreshing artisanal Argentine gelato
  • LIO Jewelry, handcrafted fine jewelry that is sweat-proof and sustainable
  • Luminary Lifestyle, sophisticated and comfortable ready-to-wear pieces for all seasons
  • Malibu Apothecary, a destination-inspired fragrance company that gives back to coastal conservation efforts
  • Mended, textiles and home goods hand block-printed by survivor artisans to support education, food supply and home building
  • Mini Mahjer, mahjong game kits designed to teach children American Mahjong
  • P.Cill, women’s apparel that is stylish while comfortable to wear
  • Ruth and Ralph, timeless, hand-smocked and embroidered children’s wear
  • Swap Top, the maker of hats for kids and adults that show off your favorite charms
  • Taylor Paladino, watercolor stationery and home accessories featuring original designs

 

The shopping center’s outdoor plaza will be adorned with extravagant themed décor providing photo ops at every turn and an upbeat shopping soundtrack will be performed by DJ TJ.

 

What: Good Market at Galleria Dallas

 

When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, April 4 and Saturday, April 5, 2025

 

Where: Galleria Dallas, 13350 Dallas Parkway, Dallas, TX 75240. Located in the outdoor plaza near North Italia

 

Cost: Free

 

Information: galleriadallas.com

 

 

About Galleria Dallas 

Galleria Dallas is an iconic shopping center with a unique collection of more than 200 retailers, restaurants and experiences including Nordstrom, Macy’s, the world’s only GAP, Banana Republic and Old Navy combo anchor, The Westin Galleria Dallas and the signature Galleria Ice Skating Center. Welcoming more than 12 million visitors annually, only Galleria Dallas delivers the consummate Dallas shopping experience. Visit galleriadallas.com for hours and to learn more about the shopping center. Galleria Dallas is owned by MetLife Investment Management, managed by Trade-mark Property Group, Inc.  Galleria Dallas, 13350 Dallas Parkway, Dallas, Texas, 75240.

For Social Media: @GalleriaDallas #GalleriaDallas

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Dr. Liang Hong

Dr. Liang Hong leads the Texas A&M University College of Dentistry’s public health sciences department. Dr. John K. Neubert takes the reins of the dental college’s biomedical sciences department.  

Drs. Liang Hong and John K. Neubert recently joined Texas A&M University College of Dentistry in leadership roles. Hong is the new department head of public health sciences, and Neubert is the leader of the biomedical sciences department. 

Hong, also named a Faculty Fellow of Texas A&M Institute for Healthcare Access, joined A&M Dentistry after serving as professor and director in the Division of Community Dentistry at the University of Tennessee HSC College of Dentistry and professor in the UTHSC College of Medicine. 

“This dental school, the location – the Dallas area and the state of Texas – provides huge opportunities to pursue my professional goal of improving oral health and access to dental care of the public,” he said. “Oral health indicators in Texas are behind the national average and the objectives of Healthy People 2030. There’s a lot of work to do.” 

Neubert joined the dental college after more than 20 years on the University of Florida faculty, including several years as the director of predoctoral orthodontic education. A translational researcher, his work is recognized worldwide. 

His background is in neuroscience, pain research and therapeutics. Neubert said he pursued a leadership role at the dental college to focus more on leading a basic science and research program. 

“Even though I’m a dentist and an orthodontist, I consider myself a researcher and academic,” Neubert said. 

The department’s strong neuroscience group complements his research in finding alternatives to opioids and other drug treatments for those suffering from pain, especially in the orofacial region. 

 

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To help fund this critical initiative, Cerulean Blue Coffee in Flower Mound will host a special community event on March 20 from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.

As summer approaches, many children who rely on free or reduced-priced meals during the school year face food insecurity. Christian Community Action (CCA) will bridge the gap with its Kids Eat Free program, aiming to provide nutritious meals to 1,000 children per week throughout the summer in Collin, Dallas and Denton counties.

The Kids Eat Free program ensures that children continue receiving healthy and nourishing meals when school cafeterias close. Through dedicated church and volunteer partners, CCA delivers weekly food packages directly to students’ homes, making it easier for families to access the nutrition they need. Each meal package includes a mix of pantry staples and fresh foods, as well as healthy weekend meal options and engaging activity packs to support children’s overall well-being.

“No child should have to worry about where their next meal is coming from,” said Gilbert Montez, President/CEO at Christian Community Action. “Through the generosity of our volunteers, church partners, and donors, we can ensure that kids in our community have access to nutritious meals throughout the summer.”

To help fund this critical initiative, Cerulean Blue Coffee in Flower Mound will host a special community event on March 20 from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m., where supporters can help CCA unlock a $25,000 matching grant from Collective Way—a local organization that champions charities throughout the year. Every donation made at the event will be matched dollar for dollar, doubling the impact for children in need.

The evening will feature special guest speakers, and an opportunity to learn more about the Kids Eat Free program and its impact. Attendees can also enjoy Cerulean Blue’s signature coffee and pastries while engaging with community leaders and supporters. CCA also will have a four pack of Dallas Stars and Texas Rangers tickets to give away. 

“We believe in the power of partnerships to drive real change,” said Scott Hall, Chief Ministry Officer at Collective Way. “By connecting faith-driven businesses with faith-based nonprofits, we can create meaningful, lasting transformation in our communities. We’re honored to support Christian Community Action as they work to ensure children have the nutrition they need to thrive.”

For more than 50 years, Christian Community Action (CCA) has been a cornerstone of hope and support for families in need across North Texas. As a faith-based nonprofit, CCA is dedicated to alleviating poverty, providing essential resources, and empowering individuals to build brighter futures. Through a variety of programs—including food assistance, financial coaching, education, and crisis support—CCA serves thousands of families annually, ensuring they have the tools and resources needed to achieve long-term stability. To learn more about Christian Community Action, visit ccahelps.org.

Collective Way connects and mobilizes faith-driven business leaders to deliver unmatched community and sustained financial support to faith-based nonprofits to bring economic, social, and spiritual transformation. We embrace non-profit organizations in our collective and offer a supportive network of community, care, and development to insure sustained growth and measurable return for all our partners. 

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Frisco's PGA District Invites you to Grab your Girlfriends for their Fun, Free Spring Market March 29

Celebrate the season at the Spring Market at PGA Frisco Saturday, March 29 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Guests are invited to stroll through this pop-up outdoor marketplace featuring more than 40 juried vendors offering a curated selection of handmade items, boutique clothing, jewelry, fresh flowers, soaps, candles, and other one-of-a-kind treasures. Among the new featured vendors at the Spring Market are:

  • Crooked Creek Honey Farm - Fresh Honey 
  • Stemmed and Found Co- Fresh BYO Flower Bouquets
  • BreadbyRona- Fresh Sourdough Bread and Sourdough Starters
  • Buff City Soap Celina- Laundry Detergents & Soaps
  • TX 28 Beef Jerky, LLC- Beef Jerky
  • Lone Star Roots - Branded Soft Tees, Aprons, Tumblers, Slippers, Mugs & More
  • Glowstone Candle - Luxury Candles & Wax Melts
  • Kessler Elliott - Custom Charm Jewelry 

 

The PGA District’s free Spring Market was created with area shoppers in mind. Visitors can source the perfect spring decor, thoughtful gifts and more. The market provides the perfect opportunity for a girl’s day out, with more than just shopping. The festive restaurants of the PGA District offer a great place for lunch or just a shopping break.

PGA Frisco offers amazing activities year-round. Guests can learn about all upcoming events at pgafrisco.com/events or by registering for the Omni PGA Frisco newsletter.

 

About Omni PGA Frisco Resort & Spa

Open since May 2, 2023, Omni PGA Frisco Resort & Spa offers a reimagined destination resort experience for the ultimate getaway. With a wide selection of unique experiences and remarkable year-round programming and activities, the resort provides a diverse and fun-filled destination for guests of all ages. The oasis of the 660-acre PGA Frisco campus, this luxury resort is both one of the world's leading meeting and conference destinations as well as a bucket list leisure destination featuring two championship golf courses at Fields Ranch designed by Gil Hanse and Beau Welling. With comprehensive resort amenities featuring a signature spa, 13 restaurants and bars, and retail shops - there's something designed for all. Featuring subtle nods to Texas culture, each of the resort's 500 guest rooms and suites and 10 exclusive four-bedroom modern-Texas ranch houses, offer sweeping views of lush surrounds. The resort features more than 127,000 sq. ft of indoor and outdoor space for meetings and events, including 2 ballrooms; 19 meeting rooms; 9 outdoor event venues; and Panther Creek Pavilion, the ideal venue for weddings. Visit omnipgafriscoresort.com or call 469-305-4500 for more information and room reservations. Follow Omni PGA Frisco Resort & Spa on Facebook and Instagram.

 

About the PGA of America

The PGA of America is one of the world’s largest sports organizations, composed of nearly 28,000 PGA Professionals who work daily to grow interest and inclusion in the game of golf. For more information about the PGA of America, visit PGA.com and follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

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Shelton sophomore Reese Olsen played Ariel Moore, the fiery preacher’s daughter, in "Footloose."

The stage came alive in February as Shelton Theatre Arts delivered a high-energy performance of the beloved musical Footloose! With a cast and crew of 79 students, this production was packed with electrifying dance numbers, powerful vocals and the unforgettable spirit of the 1980s.

The accomplished cast brought iconic songs to life, including the rebellious anthem "Footloose" and the uplifting "Let’s Hear It for the Boy." Senior Charlie Raynaud led the talented ensemble as Ren McCormack, bringing passion and energy to the stage. Reese Olsen shone as Ariel Moore, the fiery preacher’s daughter, while Keegan McGehearty added humor and charm as Willard. Jen Jen Dayton, playing Ariel’s best friend Rusty, wowed audiences with her standout performance, and Dylan Tompkins gave a moving portrayal of Rev. Shaw Moore, the conflicted town leader. Shelton Upper School English and Film teacher Joe Mallick authoritatively played Principal Harry Clark.

This collaborative production showcased the dedication and talent of Shelton’s students and staff, from vibrant choreography to seamless set changes. Every detail contributed to an unforgettable show!

Congratulations to the entire Footloose team for putting on a fantastic production that had audiences dancing in their seats!

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Courtesy of the Festival of Joy

Celebrating the sights, sounds and culture of India, the sixth-annual Festival of Joy is set for Saturday, April 26, at Klyde Warren Park (2012 Woodall Rodgers Fwy., Dallas). The family-friendly event kicks off at 11 a.m. with a vibrant parade, dancing, music and live performances throughout the day. Presented by the acclaimed East Dallas restaurant Kalachandji’s, the Festival of Joy brings together thousands of families, adults and dignitaries from across North Texas for a fun-filled day, teeming with bright colors, beautiful flowers and interactive exhibits focused on exploration and joy. Festival goers seeking culinary delights can enjoy a free vegetarian feast and a variety of ethnic vegetarian foods available for purchase.

The event culminates with an evening concert at 7 p.m. featuring The Mayapuris, a vibrant traveling party of conscious musicians. Raised in the mystic traditions of ancient India, the Mayapuris fuse the soul stirring experience of mantra music with exceptional musicianship in both eastern and western styles. They have toured across six continents propelled by their thunderous rhythm and soaring vocals.

“The Festival of Joy is a reminder that even in challenging times, hope, faith and love have the power to transform our lives,” said Nityananda Das Adhikari of the Radha Kalachandji Temple. “It’s a celebration of the choice we all have to live with compassion, peace and connection to the world around us. At its core, the festival is about fostering a deeper sense of unity, both within ourselves and the universe. We invite everyone to experience this incredible gathering, where hearts come together in harmony.”

The Festival of Joy, also celebrated as Ratha Yatra or Festival of Chariots, has its roots in the ancient Indian tradition. It has been observed annually for more than 3,000 years in the holy city of Jagannatha Puri in the South Indian state of Orissa, making it the world’s longest-running street festival. It is now held in major cities worldwide, including New York City’s Fifth Avenue and London’s Piccadilly Circus.

The festival starts at 11 a.m. with a welcome ceremony at Klyde Warren Park, followed by a parade at 11:30 a.m. through the Dallas Arts District, returning to the park at 1:30 p.m. Hundreds of festivalgoers, pilgrims and faith leaders joyously pull the colorful chariot carrying the sacred deities of Jagannatha, Subhadra and Balarama along the route. Hundreds more dance, sing and play traditional musical instruments. Devotees believe that if they get the opportunity to pull the ropes of the giant chariot carrying Lord Krishna, known as Jagannatha or the Lord of the Universe, they can obtain eternal service to the Lord in the spiritual world.

After the procession returns to Klyde Warren Park, guests can enjoy a free vegetarian feast, live stage entertainment, sample delicious regional Indian street foods, shop at an ethnic clothing bazaar, and explore exhibits celebrating the spiritual heart of India. From Ayurveda and yoga to traditional crafts, try-a-sari, mehndi, "ask-a-monk" sessions and more, attendees can immerse themselves in the rich cultural offerings of India.

For more information and the latest updates, go to festivalofjoydallas.com.

About Kalachandji’s and The Texas Krishnas. Kalachandji’s vegetarian restaurant has been operated for 43 years by The Texas Krishnas Inc., the North Texas affiliate of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON). The society was founded in 1965 by Srila A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, who brought the ancient Vedic tradition of bhakti or devotion to the West. The society serves a local congregation of over 10,000 at the Radha Kalachandji Temple, 5430 Gurley Avenue in East Dallas, with daily worship services and classes in meditation, yoga and vegetarian cooking. They also operate the nearby TKG Academy elementary and middle school, and the Food for Life program for the homeless. Nashringa Rupa Dasa, president of the Radha Kalachandji Temple says, “We are excited that our festival was attended last year by over 10,000 North Texas  residents and anticipate welcoming even more in our 6th year at Klyde Warren Park.”