It’s that time of year again. Festivals in North Texas are arriving and even though they look different this year, the springtime events have one thing in common: to bring connection. Whether it’s celebrating artists or a flashback to a 16th century English village, these are fun outings waiting for family and friends to find joy in. 

Of course, these are difficult times and the pandemic has continued to force cancellations or postponement to some of North Texas’ most beloved festivals, including the Main Street Fort Worth Arts Festival and the Denton Jazz Festival. So, we bring you a few in-person and online festivities to enjoy. Take a look at our picks with confirmed dates below. And check back in with us as more festivals pop up.

Most upcoming festivals are taking COVID-19 precautions: social distancing and mask requirements. Note: we encourage you to stay updated with the organizations for updates. 

Scarborough Renaissance Festival 

Photo: Shutterstock

Not even a modern-day pandemic could keep a re-created 16th century English village away for too long. The North Texas favorite, located in Waxahachie, returns for its 40th year with new events and programs. For eight consecutive weeks, visitors will see King Henry VIII, his Royal Court and other dignitaries come together for a reunion. 

This year, look out for new shows featuring acrobats, comedians, multi-instrumentalists, magicians, Scottish Bagpipe and drums, a dancing weasel, and even a sword swallower. The festival has 200 village shops so you’ll always have something fascinating to see. And if you thought it couldn’t get any better — make sure to try the food. 

Each weekend has a new theme. And the first weekend, April 10-11, up to three kids in families ages 5-12 will get free admission. The festival is following CDC guidelines and protocols. These include temperature checks, a mask requirement, social distancing and more. Employees will be masked too. Tickets prices here.

Dallas Arts Month

The nearly decade-old Dallas Arts Month continues to spotlight the growing arts community this year. Because of the pandemic, Dallas Arts Month’s city-wide celebration will include both virtual and in-person events. The 2021 programming is anchored by signature events including the following:

• April 8 – TITAS Virtual Santos Salon Series: Dallas As An Arts Hub (Virtual)
• April 16 – Nasher Prize Dialogues: Laureate Lecture (Virtual)
• April 16-18 – Cap Artist Showcase at Fair Park
• April 20 – Arts Advocacy Day Luncheon at Sammons Park (Link to come)
• April 25 – Cap Artist Showcase ar Strauss Square
• April 26 – Creative Conversation: Arts & Justice (Virtual) 

And if you’re looking for more in-person or virtual fun to catch, check out the Dallas Arts Month page. It’s powered by Art&Seek’s calendar. 

If you attend any of the events, tag #DallasArtsMonth on your social media posts.

Chalk Art Festival

Photo: Shutterstock

Let the sidewalk be your canvas at Carrollton’s second annual Chalk Art Festival. On May 15, located at Mary Heads Carter Park, visitors will enjoy free packaged crafts, music, games and an area dedicated to young aspiring chalk artists. There will be live music by Kamica King and Mark Shelton Music.

To compete: Kids ages eight to 12 can compete for $5, so long as they have not sold any artwork before. Artists ages 13 and older, who have sold artwork, can compete for $10 as a professional. The deadline to apply is May 7. More on the rules here. 

COVID-19 safety protocols will be in place, including artists placed six feet apart. Masks are recommended when social distancing is not possible.

Bluebonnet Trails and Festival

Photo: Shutterstock

In 1997, Ennis, Texas was designated by the State Legislature as the home of the Official Texas Bluebonnet Trail. This year it celebrates its 69th year.

From April 16-18, during its peak weekend for the bluebonnets, the festival will include live music, vendors, crafts and more. All month long, the Ennis Bluebonnet Trails will be open for touring. According to the festival’s Facebook, masks are strongly encouraged. Find the festival schedule here.