Spring hasn’t quite sprung yet. But, it’s coming. The arrival of spring is just weeks away. YEAH! Officially, the first day of the spring 2018 equinox is Tuesday, March 20 at 12:15 p.m. And, I can’t wait for sunny skies, warmer weather, green grass, and beautiful flower blossoms lining our streets and parks. Spring is really nature’s way of saying go, go, go. Once it arrives, there’s no holding back. And, there’s plenty of ways to enjoy and celebrate. So get ready and mark your calendar for these Austin area events and activities sure to make everyone smile.
Indoor spring fun for everyone
Hold your own event and throw a St. Patrick’s Day party for a few of your friends and Travisso neighbors. Who can resist piles of thinly sliced corned beef, cabbage, potatoes, and thick slices of Irish Soda Bread? I am sure no one. Plan a game or two such as pin the shamrock on the leprechaun or hunt for gold (chocolate coins work great). Then, serve a luscious dessert for a grand finale. Or, maybe two.
If you have never been to a rodeo ya’ll now’s the time. Rodeo Austin stampedes into town just in time for spring break fun on March 10 and runs through March 24. Get yourself a seat and brace yourself for a variety of rodeo events such as barrel racing, calf roping, bull riding, steer wrestling, mutton bustin’, and mutton bustin’ team roping. But, there’s oh so much more. You can easily spend the entire day attending the numerous kid’s activities the event provides. There’s a carnival, fried carnival food, a petting zoo, pig races, a youth art show and pony rides. In addition there’s daily main stage concerts, a craft beer garden, a wine garden, and the livestock show. Ticket prices vary depending on what you want to do. Going to the rodeo can be costly. If you need to economize check out their discounted deals including $2 Tuesday.
Outdoor spring events
Go fly a kite at the 89th annual ABC Kite Fest in Zilker Park on Sunday, March 4. The first Zilker Kite Festival debuted in 1929 making it the oldest kite festival in the U.S. And, it’s still going strong. This one-day festival filled with all things spring starts with a sky full of colorful kites. Other activities to fill up your day include music, food, kite-flying contests and a kite-making workshop. There’s also rock climbing, bungee jumping, face painting, and more. Review the requirements here for the Exchange Club Kite Showcase and Contest.
Explore the wonderful world of plants during the Zilker Garden Festival, March 24-25. Here’s another long-standing event that’s been 50 years in the making. This two-day, one-stop gardening destination is a must for all those with green thumbs. And, also, for those that are just starting their first garden. Clinics and workshops are available for those that need a little help. The festival also features food, music, and vendors selling unique one-of-a-kinds. Don’t forget to check out the flower show in the garden center.
Take the kids to an egg hunt. Hop on over to the city of Leander’s annual spring Egg-Stravaganza on Sunday, March 25 from 1 to 3 p.m. at Benbrook Ranch Park. Hunt for prizes and sweet surprises. Free. Sponsored by the Leander Parks and Recreation Department.
