This article is a part of the 2023 Spring Travel Guide, a sponsored collection brought to you by our travel advertising partners. You can find more spring travel destinations and events here.

Do you know the feeling you get when you visit somewhere so charming, so explorable, that all you want is more time in that place—more time to go down that one street, more time to try that other restaurant that looked so good, more time to stop into that one shop you’ve had your eye on since you rolled into town?

Garland, Texas, is that and more. 

It’s where wanderlust gets quenched. It’s where you finally find the quaint, the adorable, the cozy, the charming dreamy escape. Now you can rest, confident that all the reviews, all the research, all the check-ins and confirmations were valid. You did good! Now, you’ll be asking yourself for days on end why you never thought to come to Garland sooner. 

Garland is a breath of fresh air compared to the cookie-cutter communities that pervade DFW. Every corner of the community is woven together by an open hand, sincerely eager in its attempts to make your stay more welcoming. Captivating visitors with its commonsense yet blissfully creative approach to living, Garland beckons you to make it your favorite day trip go-to or weekend getaway. 

Priding itself on open arms, a welcoming spirit, and forming connections beyond the surface level, Garland is a community so much more than its charm, unique shopping, amazing restaurants, and fun things to do—it’s a place to belong, whether that be every other weekend, a couple times a year, or whenever you happen to come by, really. 

If you want to surround yourself in relaxed, real, genuine, down-home goodness, Garland is that. So, come on…come discover what makes Garland an alluring, one-of-a-kind destination. Make one of these events happening over the next few months your excuse to come explore Garland, Texas.

Cozy Up and Catch a Movie at the Historic Plaza Theatre

February–December

Retro and sexy, the Plaza Theatre is an icon of downtown Garland—perfect for date nights or getting together with your squad! Even better: the theatre throws a FREE movie screening once a month. Seats are first come, first serve. Tickets are not required. Check the theatre’s schedule for more information on upcoming shows.

Second Saturday Urban Market—Make Fresh, Refurbished, and Fun Ingredients in Your Weekend

Every second Saturday of the month

Grab a jar of jam or honey and a homemade something or another! This pop-up market is a real “Food and Finds” type that occurs every second Saturday in downtown Garland. Local vendors always arrive with farm-fresh foods, in addition to vintage, repurposed, upcycled, and handcrafted goods.

Don’t Miss Mavis Staples

Friday, March 24, at 8:00 p.m., Granville Arts Center

Mavis Staples brings her legendary American rhythm, blues, and gospel voice to Garland, Texas! As a singer, actress, and civil rights activist, Ms. Staples’ achievements encompass collaborations with Aretha Franklin, Prince, Bob Dylan, Arcade Fire, and Hozier. Don’t miss this Grammy Award winner and Lifetime Achievement Award recipient as she croons, scats, swoops, and testifies like no one else can!

Don’t Miss the Peking Acrobats

Monday, March 27, at 7:00 p.m., Granville Arts Center

For more than 30 years, the Peking Acrobats have amazed audiences with their high-flying maneuvers and dazzling special effects. Inspired by and deeply rooted in centuries of Chinese history and tradition, the acrobats and daredevils will take your breath away. 

Experience Big Art Day in Garland

Saturday, April 1, Granville Arts Center

The creative community in Garland unites with Big Art Day and the Texas Art Education Association’s (TAEA) state initiative to raise awareness of art education. Garland’s FREE art education event in Downtown Garland features visual and performing artists, steamroller art, make-and-take art, and many other attractions hosted by Garland ISD and the City of Garland.

Sounds of Summer Concert Series at Winters Park & Audubon Park

May–June

Spend your evening under the stars, taking in the live music and captivating performances from on-the-rise artists. Free parking and plenty of shade, food trucks, and fun activities for the kids are available. 

Catch a Vibe at Band Together on the Square

April–July

Another summer concert series to enjoy takes place in the heart of Garland. Grab a lawn chair and tune in to who’s playing on Garland’s square. Check the website for concert listings. 


Visit MakeYourMarkGarland.com for more information.