Athens Christmas Parade slated for December 7

Plans are in full swing for the annual lighted Christmas Parade, Christmas Around the Square, sponsored by the City of Athens.

The annual lighted Christmas Parade will kick off at 6:30 p.m. in downtown Athens on Saturday, December 7.

Parade winners will be announced downtown at the judges’ staging area 30 minutes after the parade.  Prizes will be awarded to the first, second, and third place winners, sponsored by Republic Services and Kevin Lilly’s McDonald’s. The first place winner will receive $500, second place $300 and third place $200.

The fun doesn't end yet; stick around for the After Parade Party, sponsored by local churches, which will be bigger and better this year.  The After Parade Party will feature 17 inflatables including slides and bounce houses, booths and music in downtown Athens.

Come early for Holiday on the Square, sponsored by the Light Up Athens committee, that will take place downtown on the Courthouse Square from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. and will feature a Holiday Market, arts and crafts for children, visits with Santa, and the lighting of the Christmas Tree.  Keep Athens Beautiful will have a food booth with pulled pork sandwiches, hot dogs and Frito pie, while supplies last.

Other holiday events that will take place in Athens the day of the Christmas Parade include the Cain Center’s Breakfast with Santa at 8 a.m. and there will be a special showing of the “Polar Express” at 3 p.m. at the Henderson County Library.

Bring the entire family and join us downtown for Christmas Around the Square.

For more information, please visit our website at www.AthensTX.org.

Newly constructed Veterans Memorial Wall to be dedicated November 11

The East Texas Arboretum & Botanical Society is home to the newly constructed Henderson County Veterans Memorial Wall and Plaza, that will be dedicated at 11:30 a.m. on Veterans Day.

The memorial wall honors more than 9,000 military veterans from Henderson County beginning from the Civil War to present.

The two red brick curved walls, located within an open plaza with a bronze eagle sculpture overlooking the plaza, are embedded with names of veterans engraved on granite panels.

Visitors to Athens can see the new memorial wall daily from dawn to dusk at the East Texas Arboretum, located at 1601 Patterson Road.

Christmas Park Land of Lights opens for holiday season November 10

Christmas Park Land of Lights will be opening for the holiday season on Sunday, November 10 and will remain open through January 2.

Christmas Park Land of Lights first opened in 1998 and has grown each year with visitors from all 50 states and many international visitors. Lights have been purchased from all over the United States and from other countries. All the wood cut outs and the majority of metal art were designed and constructed on the park grounds.

The drive through Christmas Park is more than a mile long with over four million lights, 2,000 wood cut outs, more than 60 scenes, 50 motion controlled lighted scenes, six tunnels, eight arches and a concession stand. Don't miss Santa Claus starting Thanksgiving night.

Due to the heavy bumper to bumper traffic on weekends, it is recommended that tour buses give prior notification in advance of arrival and it is recommended that buses visit during the week, if possible. Please note that trailers are not allowed due to steep grades.

For more information, including admission, please visit www.AthensTX.org.

Scenic Fall Foliage Driving Trail

Vibrant red foliage of the Sumac can be
seen at the Texas Freshwater Fisheries
Center in Athens, Texas.
Photo courtesy of
Larry D. Hodge, TFFC.

Each autumn in Athens, the picturesque landscape transforms to the vibrant colors of red, orange and yellow as leaves begin to turn throughout the East Texas woodlands.

The City of Athens Department of Tourism offers a scenic driving trail for visitors to take this fall season to view the fall foliage of East Texas. Henderson County has breathtaking scenic highways and byways that are identified on the easy to follow interactive map.

Athens borders the Texas Forest Trail and Texas Lakes Trail Regions. Here you will find beautiful autumn color displays of the deciduous trees including oaks, maples, sweetgums and sumacs.

The 55-mile self-guided driving trail begins and ends at the Athens Partnership Center, located at 201 W. Corsciana Street, where visitors can pick up additional information about Athens before heading out on the tour.

The scenic driving trail includes several points of interest such as the NY-TX Zipline Adventures, located atop the highest point in Henderson County; the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center, where visitors can walk the interpretive wetland trail and learn about the hatchery; next visitors can stroll through the gardens at the East Texas Arboretum & Botanical Society and view the fall foliage from the Arboretum's observation deck; Tara Vineyard and Winery is the oldest winery in Henderson County and offers a panoramic view of the rolling hills of East Texas including the stately Murchison Home, which overlooks the vineyard.

Autumn color is expected mid to late November but it is recommended to call ahead. Visit www.AthensTX.org for foliage reports and to download the interactive map.

It's Time to Register for the 16th Annual Turkey Trot

Come out early Thanksgiving Day to the Cain Center and join in the fun for the 16th Annual Turkey Trot!

Early bird registration is now open through November 15 and walk-in registration is open November 16 through November 27. Participants will also be able to register the day of the race starting at 7 a.m. on November 28.

This year, there will be a Drumstick Dash for children ages 0-12. Participants are allowed to bring their dogs, which must be kept on a leash at all times and a registration form must be filled out on their behalf.

For participant fees, event schedule and online registration information, please click here.

Texas Swing and Heritage Festival coming up October 19 at the Cain Center

Athens will be the hottest place in the Lone Star State when the Texas Swing & Heritage Festival gets
underway at 10 a.m. on Oct. 19 at the Cain Center.

Robyn Ludwick, Deadman, Elizabeth McQueen and many other performers will grace three stages during the 12-hour festival, which also features the Austin Blues Society's Heart of Texas Blues Challenge (East Texas division), the Swing Chick fiddle contest, swing-dancing contest, and barbecue cook-off and more. Late Texas honky-tonk legend Al Dexter will be honored with a presentation by Dr. Gary Hartman, director of the Center for Texas Music History at Texas State University.

Admission is $35; VIP tickets are $150 and includes access to a special festival lounge with open bar (noon to 10 p.m.), food from Railway Cafe and exclusive performances. Tickets are available online at texasswingfestival.com or by calling 903.677.4247.

Other performers include Bordertown Bootleggers, Lone Star Swing, JT Coldfire and Shoot Low Sheriff, with more to be announced, including entrants in the Heart of Texas Blues Challenge. The winner of this regional preliminary for the Blues Foundation International Blues Challenge, held annually in Memphis, will receive an expenses-paid trip to compete in the Austin Blues Society Heart of Texas finals in Austin. The final winner will compete in Memphis.

"Our festival is built upon the idea of bringing people together, and one of the ways we're doing that is through good old-fashioned competition," says festival director Michael Lenz. "We're just updating ours a bit."

But celebrating heritage is equally important, which is why the festival also is paying homage to musical legend Al Dexter. Dexter co-wrote and recorded Honky Tonk Blues, the first song to use that term, in 1936. Born in Jacksonville, Texas (conflicting reports list the year as 1902 and 1905; he died in 1984), Clarence Albert Poindexter also ran his own honky-tonk, the Roundup Club, in Turnertown, and in 1943, recorded his biggest hit, Pistol Packin Mama. The first country singer to perform on Broadway, he was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1971 and the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame in 2010.

About the Texas Swing Festival: Formed in 2011, the Texas Swing & Heritage Festival is committed to celebrating and promoting Texas musicians, artists and cultural heritage, and strives to become the premier festival showing unique and emerging Texas music and arts. Held in Athens, Texas, the festival combines music, education, workshops, blues and barbecue competitions and other forms of creative expression in a family-friendly format.

Athens Department of Tourism Hosts Texas Friendly Hospitality Training

The City of Athens Department of Tourism hosted its second Texas Friendly Hospitality Training on August 22 at the Athens Partnership Center for hospitality industry employees.

The Texas Friendly Training offers essential training for all front-line employees, including front desk staff, hotel staff, guest services, restaurant staff, etc. Excellent customer service is a vital key to the lifeline of all successful businesses as well as the success of the tourism industry here in Athens.

Attending the training was representatives from the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center, Athens Chamber of Commerce, Holiday Inn Express Athens, Coker and Qualls P.A., and the Cain Center.

Registration Now Open for the Annual Bluegill Family Fishing Tournament at Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center

Join the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center for a fun-filled day of trying to catch the biggest Bluegill at the
Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center and on Lake Athens.

The annual Bluegill Family Fishing Tournament will take place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, September 28, 2013.

The cost is $15 per family team, entry includes family admission.

Numerous prize packages will be awarded, including an X-Box 360 with game, fishing equipment and gift cards from local businesses. More than $2,500 in prizes will be awarded.

The tournament awards prizes for the heaviest stringers of sunfish, but the event is really about adults and children having fun fishing together.

Teams must consist of one adult 18 years or older and one child under 18 years of age. Each team can weigh in a maximum of four fish. Multiple teams can fish from the same boat, making it possible for both parents to partner with different children and still fish as a family. Team members are not required to be related.

Teams may choose to fish either on Lake Athens, which is adjacent to TFFC, or in TFFC's ponds and streams, some of which have been stocked with bluegills.

All species of sunfish or bream, except largemouth bass, are allowed. For information on identifying them, please click here.

For more information about the Bluegill Family Fishing Tournament, visit the event page by clicking here. To request an entry form, contact Craig Brooks at TFFC at 903-670-2222.

The Henderson County Performing Arts Center Announces Shows for its 50th Anniversary Season

The Henderson County Performing Arts Center will celebrate its 50th Anniversary in 2014 and they have selected the right mix of shows that were produced in the past 50 years to produce again during their special Anniversary Season.

The season will kick off during Valentine's weekend with Love Letters, the March show will be Enchanted April, and the month of April will be a joint effort with TVCC Drama Department to present the classic Picnic. June is the time for the comedy audience-pleaser, Daddy's Dyin', Who's Got The Will? The Summer Youth Musical will be Once Upon A Mattress and September is the slot for the return of the very popular, Rabbit Hole. The HCPAC will have 50 years of Musicals Revue featuring current and former musical stars. The season will conclude with their Christmas Show, The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe.

The HCPAC is offering an early bird special for the 2014 Season Tickets. Contact the Henderson County Performing Arts Center at 903-675-3908 for more information.

5 Ways to Beat the Summer Heat

August is a hot month for Texans with temperatures soaring to 100 degrees. This year, summer temperatures seem to be more mild compared to previous year's but let's face it, it's still hot out there. Below are five ways you can beat the heat when you visit Athens this month:

1) Enjoy outdoor activities during the morning hours
The East Texas Arboretum is a wonderful place to visit to see the beautiful gardens and walk nature trails. Open daily from dawn to dusk, consider visiting the Arboretum in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the extreme temperatures. The Athens Farmer's Market opens at 8 a.m. every Saturday through October. This is a good opportunity to get outside early and buy local produce or other homemade items. The Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center offers a monthly Bird and Nature Walk that begins at 9 a.m. the second Saturday of the month or fish anytime from the TFFC casting pond.

2) Visit places that are indoors during the heat of the afternoon
Athens has a number of indoor shopping opportunities from boutiques to art galleries that offer a break from the heat. For a list of shopping opportunities, click here to download our shopping guide. You can also tour the Henderson County Historical Museum, open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. every Friday and Saturday. Take the kids bowling at the Athens Bowling Center, where they can also play at the arcade or indoor miniature golf. Enjoy a movie matinee at Cinema 4.

3) Get Wet
Athens is surrounded by several lakes and offers a number of opportunities to get wet this summer. Take the boat out on Lake Athens or go jet skiing. Staying overnight at an Athens hotel? Enjoy complimentary access to the Cain Center to swim or workout, simply by showing your hotel room key to the front desk attendant. Are you scuba certified? Hunt for sunken treasure at the Athens Scuba Park.

4) Evening Entertainment
Be entertained at the Henderson County Performing Arts Center in August with Annie Get Your Gun. The Texas Gospel Music Hall will feature Tribute Quartet in concert this month. Bring the family to Family Fun Friday Nights at the East Texas Arboretum or relax on the patio with a taste of Texas wine at Tara Vineyard and Winery.

5) Drink Plenty of Fluids and Wear Sunscreen
Don't forget to drink plenty of fluids during your visit and if you will be spending time outdoors, you'll want to be sure and pack your sunscreen.

Annual TFFC Fourth of July Fireworks Show Less Than A Week Away

Fireworks light up the skies over the
Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center and
adjacent Lake Athens.

The annual Fourth of July fireworks show at the The Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center is almost here and will take place on Thursday, July 4. The show will last approximately one-half hour and is one of the biggest in East Texas.

The Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center will be open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for regular paid visitation. Free admission for the fireworks show will start at 4 p.m.

Visitors are encouraged to fish in the stocked casting pond while waiting for the fireworks, which will begin at dark.

No license is required to fish, and bait and tackle are furnished for free as long as supply lasts. Fishing ends approximately 30 minutes before the fireworks begin.

Food and beverages will be available for purchase, and people are encouraged to bring picnics. KCKL (FM 95.9) will broadcast patriotic music during the show.

Pets, alcohol, tobacco products and private fireworks, including "snap caps" and sparklers, are not allowed.

The show is a Keep Athens Beautiful event and is sponsored by the City of Athens, local businesses and individuals.

The event has become an area tradition, with many people dressing in red, white and blue in keeping with the holiday theme.

Parking is available in the main TFFC parking lot and in an overflow parking area on Peninsula Point Road. Persons using the overflow parking area may enter through Gate C, which is across the street from the parking area. For more information about the event, please click here.

Ready..Set..Glow Run

The Cain Center will be hosting an evening 5k/10k family-friendly event at 8:30 p.m. on July 27th.

Glow sticks and other glowing attire will be handed out as well as Glow in the Dark t-shirts for those that register early.

Come enjoy the warm summer night in colorful display of glowing sticks, necklaces, glasses, bracelets, and lights along with other cool stuff!

Please click here for more information and to download a registration form, or contact the Cain Center at 903-677-2001.

East Texas Arboretum Presents New Summer Events

The East Texas Arboretum and Botanical Society will be hosting a series of Family Fun Friday Nights this summer on the grounds of the East Texas Arboretum.

Family Fun Friday Nights will feature a family-friendly movie along with other activities for the kids. The first event will kick off this Friday night, June 21st with Jurassic Park Night and a Dino Bone Dig. Light concessions will be available for guests. Events open at 7:30 p.m. and the movie will start at dusk.

Mark your calendars and plan to attend Family Fun Friday Nights on July 19th for Beach Blanket Bingo, a Slip-n-Slide and a Professional Dog Show. On August 16th, come out to the East Texas Arboretum for Ferris Bueller's Night, a Sock Hop and a Car and Motorcycle Show.

Admission is $4 per car for members and $5 per car for non members. For more information, please contact the East Texas Arboretum & Botanical Society at 903-675-5630.

City of Athens Promotes Tourism with New HD Video

In today's competitive tourism market, video is not an option but a must. With this in mind, the City of Athens Department of Tourism has teamed up with Phillips Productions of Dallas, Texas to produce the City's first tourism video to attract visitors to the City of Athens.

The City of Athens Department of Tourism has been working closely with the staff at Phillips Productions to produce a high quality video that brings to life the experience and ideas of what visitors can see and do here. "Athens has so much to offer visitors and our goal was to produce a video that speaks directly to the visitor and that captures the natural beauty that is Athens,” said Sherri Skeeters, tourism coordinator for the City of Athens Department of Tourism.

Michael Grant, director of marketing and strategic planning of Phillips Productions said, "Our company has a rich tradition in the art of storytelling. We used this powerful resource to produce a unique approach to the Athens video. We believe the storytelling technique is an authentic experience that viewers will enjoy while seeing all the things that make Athens a special place to visit."

The video captures stunning imagery and the charm of Athens from its nature trails and gardens to historic sites and outdoor adventures, and offers an invitation to viewers to get away for a while, relax and enjoy some new and exciting scenery.

The new video is available on the City of Athens Department of Tourism’s website at www.AthensTX.org and will be used to further promote Athens as a visitor destination through Texas tourism websites, including online advertising and promotions for the Department of Tourism.

What's blooming at the East Texas Arboretum?

Teresa Glasglow, Executive Director of the East Texas Arboretum & Botanical Society, included a bloom report in her recent newsletter. Here's what Teresa had to say about what's blooming at the Arboretum:

"The warmer weather has given the East Texas Arboretum a chance to plant a little earlier than usual. Poppies are starting to bloom now; and remember they do not last long. The largest concentration of poppies this year are in the Master Gardener's Dream Garden area behind the Wofford House. Larkspur are full of buds and will be showing off color anytime now. We let these beautiful flowers just pop up where they want every year.

While you're strolling through the gardens this year, check out one the Arboretum's new finds; the orange esperanza. Some of the other plants in bloom are Azaleas, Moss Rose, Gerber Daisy's, Pansies, Violias, Roses, and the list grows each day.

Early last summer, the Arboretum dedicated the new "Garden in the Forest". This new trail area is 1/3 of a mile long and is paved with small areas of landscaping. Perfect for parents with smaller children and strollers. The entrance is located at the far east side of the parking lot."

For more pictures of the Arboretum in bloom, click here to check out our "Spring Blooms" board on Pinterest.

East Texas Arboretum Gears Up for Spring Gala, Night in Vegas

The East Texas Arboretum and Botanical Society is gearing up for their annual Spring Gala on Saturday, May 4th.

The theme of this year's event will be Night in Vegas. Pit your skills against Lady Lucky at the Pink Pavilion. The Wofford House will be transformed into an Italian eatery, featuring delicious cuisine by Sharon Locke. Elope with your sweetie at the Vegas Style wedding Chapel. Have some cake, be entertained by Elvis and win something fabulous at the silent auction.

Tickets are $50 per person and includes your meal, drinks, and entertainment. Proceeds from the annual Spring Gala support the Gardens and Education program at the East Texas Arboretum.

Contact the East Texas Arboretum office at 903-675-5630 for tickets, which may be purchased by check, cash or credit card.

Come have fun for a good cause!

The 28th Annual PRCA Stampede Rodeo, Just One Week Away

The 28th Annual PRCA Stampede Rodeo, hosted by the Athens Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by
Elder Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep, is now just one week away.

The annual event will begin on Friday night, April 26th and will run through Saturday, April 27th.  Gates open at 5 p.m. and the rodeo will begin at 7:30 p.m. at the Henderson County Regional Fair Park Complex. This year's rodeo promises to be one of the most exciting yet!

Contestants will compete in team roping, barrel racing, calf roping and bull riding. There will also be a 21 and older women's calf scramble with cash prizes.

The kids will not only enjoy watching the rodeo but will also have an opportunity to play at the inflatable carnival. Be sure and stop by and visit with local vendors at the rodeo.

Tickets are $5 for children 12 and under, $10 pre-sold for adults and $12 at the door. Tickets are available at the Athens Chamber of Commerce, Lone Star Western Wear, Cavendar's, Citizen's National Bank, and First State Bank.

For more information about the 28th Annual PRCA Stampede Rodeo, please contact the Athens Chamber of Commerce at 903-675-5181.

Cain Center Announces Performances in the Park

On Thursdays during the month of April and May, the Cain Center will be hosting a series of Performances

in the Park. Spring is a beautiful time of year in Athens and the local community and visitors alike are invited to come out and enjoy live music in the park from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on the east grounds of the Cain Center. 

A food truck will be available for those that want to purchase food. The first performance in the park, on April 18th, will feature the TVCC Dixieland Band. New Grace Trio and Kadie Lynn Roberson will perform live Gospel Music on May 2nd, and Athens' Got Talent will be the featured entertainment for May 16th.

Bring your blankets, lawn chairs, and picnics and share some time with your sweetheart or family listening to wonderful music and enjoying nature. All performances are free to attend.

For more information, please contact the Cain Center at 903-677-2001 or visit http://athenstx.org/things-to-do/performances-in-the-park.

April Happenings

There are several exciting events coming up this month that you don't want to miss! Whether you're interested in live theater performances, sporting events, food events, or a Southern Gospel concert, Athens offers something for everyone.

Starting this weekend, the Henderson County Performing Arts Center presents In the Room Upstairs, a taunt drama by local playwright, Robin Haynie. Performances will take place the first and second weekend of April.

Looking for a challenge? The Cain Center will host their first half marathon on April 13th. Race through scenic landscape of rolling hills and winding roads at the Home Town Half Marathon.

The Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center will host three events this month, Outdoor Fools Day, the Bird and Nature Walk, and the 3rd Annual Athens EggFest. The month of April at the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center provides opportunities to spend time outdoors. On April 6th, visitors can learn a variety of outdoor skills and engage in activities such as archery, fishing, and kayaking at Outdoor Fools Day. The morning of April 13th kicks off with the monthly Bird and Nature Walk and the 3rd Annual Athens EggFest, featuring gastric delights and the incredible Green Egg outdoor ceramic cooker.

The 28th Annual PRCA Stampede Rodeo, hosted by the Athens Chamber of Commerce, will take place at the Henderson County Regional Fair Park Complex the last weekend in April. Also that weekend, the Texas Gospel Music Hall will feature a concert with Brian Free Assurance, New Grace Trio and special guest Miss Kadie Roberson.

Be sure and check out our events calendar at www.AthensTX.org for more information on these and other events happening in Athens.

Signs of Spring

Bradford Pear tree at the East Texas Arboretum

With the warmer temperatures, Athens is beginning to see signs of spring.

Beautiful, white blooms of the Bradford Pear trees can be seen throughout town along with a few Redbud trees, a native tree of Texas.

In just a few weeks, we'll begin to see the dogwoods and azaleas begin to bloom. Peak color for the azaleas are anticipated to arrive in late March.

Springtime also brings a diversity of birds during spring migration. There are two identified bird watching locations in Athens; the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center and the East Texas Arboretum and Botanical Society.

The Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center offers monthly Bird & Nature Walks the second Saturday of the month. Visitors can expect to see 25 or more different species on each outing. Bring binoculars and a field guide, although it is not required. The Bird and Nature Walks take place from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. and are free with regular paid admission.

The East Texas Arboretum spans one hundred acres and includes two miles of nature trails. The gardens will soon come to life and will be bursting with spring color. Explore the Arboretum's nature trails for nature and wildlife viewing opportunities. Interpretive signs will guide you along the winding trail, by a spring-fed stream, across a 115-foot suspension bridge, and by the observation deck to take in the view.

Spring is a great time to visit Athens and to spend time outdoors. For more information, please visit us online at www.AthensTX.org.

Special Offers Available

Attention Visitors: Just in time for Spring Break, the City of Athens Department of Tourism now has new coupons available for participating restaurants and hotel accommodations.

Click here to download the coupon page. Coupons will expire July 31, 2013.

New Event Coming To The Cain Center Easter Weekend

Cain Center Inc. cordially invites you to Hats & High Tea at the Cain Center Easter weekend.

Hats & High Tea is a celebration for grandmothers, mothers, and daughters and will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 30th at the Cain Center.

This is a dress up occasion and prizes will be awarded to best dressed. Entertainment is provided.

Tickets are limited so contact the Cain Center today at 903-677-2000 to reserve your ticket. Tickets are $5 adults and $3 children. Click here to check out our events calendar for more information.

3rd Annual Athens EggFest Registration Now Open

The 3rd Annual Athens EggFest will take place on Saturday, April 13 at the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center and registration for the event is now open. Join us from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for an event featuring gastric delights and the incredible Green Egg outdoor ceramic cooker.

Participants come from across the country to showcase their personal recipes, meet with fellow Eggheads, and share some great food with the crowd. This year's theme is "Food's Better Outside."

Regular admission to the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center will apply and a tasting badge fee will be collected at the event entrance for persons age 12 and older, $5 for those who register in advance, $10 at event entrance. There is no registration fee to cook.

For more information about the event or to pre-register, please click here.

Looking For Something To Do For Valentine's?

Grab your sweetheart and head out to the Cain Center in Athens for the Heart N Sole 5k and 1 mile heart walk on February 16th.

A chocolate fountain with fruit and other goodies to dip will be waiting for racers who cross the finish line, or for all those who would like to come out and watch.

Runners who register before February 1st are guaranteed a t-shirt. Come out to the Cain Center on February 16th for this family friendly event, which benefits the Cain Center. Click here to check out our events page for more information.

Make Athens Your Spring Break Destination

If you haven't already decided where to take the family for Spring Break this year, why not bring them to Athens, Texas?

Conveniently located within a few hours drive from most major cities in Texas, Athens offers the perfect place to get away and spend quality time with your family without breaking your pocketbook.

Nestled among the rolling hills and piney wood forests of East Texas, Athens is a mix of landscapes and known for its natural beauty. The outdoors is the major draw for Athens with opportunities for fishing, golfing, bird watching, biking, boating and water skiing.

So what can you and your family do while you're in Athens?  We've put together a few suggestions on how you and your family can spend time together this Spring Break.


Day 1

Get in touch with your cultural side!  Did you know that Athens is named in honor of Athens, Greece?  Mrs. Dull Averiette named Athens, Texas in honor of Athens, Greece because she felt the town would become the cultural center of the county.  Spend time downtown while you're in Athens and stop by the Henderson County Historical Museum to learn more about the history of Athens and Henderson County.  Open Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., the museum is housed in the historic Faulk-Gauntt building, located one block north of the courthouse square. First built in 1896 as a grocery store, exhibits on the first floor continue to emulate a turn-of-the-century dry goods store while the second floor is a re-creation of an early law office, parlor, bedroom, bath, kitchen, and schoolroom.  Take a step back in time and experience life the way it was at the turn-of-the-century.


Next, you'll want to visit the art galleries in downtown Athens.  The newest gallery in Athens is Gallery 211, located one block east of the museum. Whether you're browsing for fine art, sculptures or paintings, Gallery 211 features regional art in a wide variety of media and genres. For two weeks in March, the gallery will host the Youth Art Month show featuring winning artists from competitions throughout the county. Gallery 211 is open Thursday and Friday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Take a break and enjoy lunch at one of our downtown restaurants.  Did you know that Athens is home of the original hamburger? Athens native "Uncle" Fletcher Davis introduced this wonderful new sandwich at the 1904 World's Fair in St. Louis. A historical marker on the downtown square pays tribute to the originator of this all-time favorite American food. In honor of our hamburger history, enjoy an old-fashioned hamburger while you're in town. For a complete list of restaurants, check out our restaurant listing by clicking here.

After lunch, stroll through downtown and visit some of our local boutiques. For a complete list of shopping opportunities in Athens, click here.


Day 2

Take the family to the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center for a day of fun.  Did you know that at the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center the entire family can go fishing, no license is required, and all bait and tackle are furnished?  The 1.2 acre lake is stocked with plentiful numbers of catfish and sunfish year-round and rainbow trout are stocked from December through March. The friendly TFFC staff will provide a brief orientation to fishing and your choice of bait. They will also untangle your line and replace lost hooks or bobbers or any other equipment problems, leaving you free to concentrate on fishing.

In addition to fishing, the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center offers 300,000 gallons of aquaria with native Texas fish, a daily dive show, an alligator exhibit, tram tours, and the interpretive wetland trail where kids can go turtle-spotting, see bees at work and walk off stream.  Stay on the grounds for a family picnic and be sure to buy a souvenir at the TFFC gift shop.

The Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center will have a couple of special events in March.  The monthly Bird and Nature Walk will take place from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. on March 9th. These outings are perfect for both beginning and advanced birdwatchers. Birdlife changes with the seasons and each outing should see a variety of 25 or more species. Bring binoculars and a field guide if you have them, although it is not required, and prepare to learn about the birdlife of the Athens area.  Also on March 9th, the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center will host their annual Fly Fish Texas event from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.  If you've ever wanted to learn to fly fish, don't miss this event.  Aimed at the novice fly fisher, this event is designed to teach you how to tie a fly, cast it and catch a fish with it, all in the same day!

The Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center is open Tuesday-Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $5.50 adults, $4.50 seniors 65 & older, and $3.50 for children ages 4 through 12.

Day 3

Up for an adventure? Head on out to NY-TX Zipline Adventures, the "Best Adventure Tour in Texas." Located 15 miles east of Athens in New York, Texas, NY-TX Zipline Adventures is atop the highest point in Henderson County at Shultz Mountain. The zipline offer guests a panoramic view of the beautiful rolling hills and trees of East Texas and they have the longest zipline in Texas at over 900 feet! NY-TX Zipline offers 6 lines and 9 lines for your zipline experience. Regular hours are Thursday through Sunday by reservation only, but they will be open all week during Spring Break on March 11th-15th. Please be sure to call ahead.

After your zipline adventure, head over to Lake Athens Marina and stop by the bait shop to pick up your supplies to go pier fishing. If you're hungry, you can grab a bite at their restaurant. Lake Athens is a 1,799 acre lake and offers a variety of water sport activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Impounded in 1962, the lake is known for largemouth bass, sunfish, crappie and white bass. Spring is the best time of year for largemouth bass and crappie and white bass are most active from February through May. Bring your boat and have some fun on the water. Although they are not rented by the marina, jet skis, canoes, kayaks, and other water sport paraphernalia are welcomed on Lake Athens.

Day 4

One hundred acres of wooded beauty, trees, flowers, and wildlife await your discovery at the East Texas Arboretum and Botanical Society. The forest appears to come alive as you meander along two miles of woodland trails. Make your way along winding, spring-fed streams connected by a 115-foot suspension bridge. Experience life in early Henderson County at the historic Wofford House museum, built in 1850. Stroll through the beautiful gardens and watch the kids play on the playground, slide hill, and explore the playhouses.  The East Texas Arboretum is open daily from daylight to dusk. Admission is $2 per person for ages 12 and older.

Next, take the family bowling for some family fun.  The Athens Bowling Center offers $.99 bowling all day on Monday. Plus, they have an arcade and in-door miniature golf providing a safe place for children to play. With 22 lanes, there's room for everyone! In between games, visit the snack bar for a delicious treat.  The Athens Bowling Center is open on Monday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Tuesday and Thursday from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m.

In March, it's still a little too cold to swim outdoors but you can still swim in Athens at the Cain Center!  Guests staying overnight in Athens hotels are offered complimentary access to the fitness center and indoor junior Olympic swimming pool, simply by showing their hotel room key to the front desk attendant. The kids will enjoy jumping off the diving boards and parents can relax nearby in the hot tub, dry sauna, and steam room.

The Cain Center sits nestled in the heart of the beautiful 85-acre Cain Park, surrounded by beautiful oaks and pines.  Cain Park is a great place to walk or jog, or even ride your bikes.  There is a playground, fishing pond, and tennis courts for all your recreational needs.

On March 16th, the Cain Center will host its 28th Annual Athens Triathlon. The 300 meter pool swim, 13.8 mile bike ride, and 5 km run is perfect for first timers! Awards will be presented to 1st Overall Male/Female, 1st Male/Female Masters, and 1st Overall Male/Female Grandmasters. Age groups start at age 10 and up. Call the Cain Center at 903-677-2000 for more information.

So what are you waiting for?  Pack your bags and head to Athens for Spring Break 2013!  But wait, before you do, be sure and make your hotel reservations. For more information about Athens, including a complete list of attractions, restaurants, hotels, coupons, and shopping opportunities, visit us online at www.AthensTX.org. If you have any questions about your visit, give us a call at 1-888-294-2847 or stop by our office, located in the Athens Partnership Center at 201 W. Corsicana Street, Suite 2 to pick up your brochures.

We look forward to seeing you in Athens!

Don't Miss Out On These Great Events!

Athens, the Home of the Original Hamburger, offers a variety of events throughout the year including a fiddler's contest, sporting events such as fishing, rodeos, a triathlon and more.  Below are a few of Athens' annual events coming up over the next few months that you don't want to miss:

In February, Keep Athens Beautiful will host its 8th annual Home and Garden Show from 9 a.m.to 4 p.m. on the 23rd at the Athens Cain Center. The Cain Center's Multipurpose Room will be transformed into a marketplace for those looking to remodel or decorate their homes or landscape their yards. Come and visit with vendors about your remodeling project or get ideas about how to landscape your yard. Mini-workshops will be offered on topics such as organic gardening, container gardening and improving your curb appeal. Door prizes will be given out throughout the day. Two days before the Home and Garden Show, folks will have the opportunity to attend Organically Speaking, with Rebecca Miller, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on the 21st at the Athens Cain Center. Enjoy a fabulous meal and hear former TV news meteorologist Rebecca Miller speak on the benefits of living organically. Miller, a master gardener, co-hosts "Living Natural First" on WBAP radio. For ticket information, please contact 903-675-7961.

Fly Fish Texas! Tie a fly. Cast a fly. Catch a fish. That's all there is to fly-fishing and Fly Fish Texas is the place to learn it. The annual event will take place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on March 9th at the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center. All Fly Fish Texas activities are free with regular paid admission. Fly Fish Texas emphasizes hands-on learning and immediate application of newly acquired skills. Visitors can collect aquatic insects from the center's streams, tie a fly to imitate one of those insects under the supervision of a skilled tier, learn to cast it from a certified fly-casting instructor, then use it to catch a rainbow trout from one of TFFC's stocked ponds or streams. Fly fishing clubs and anglers from across Texas come to the center to share fly fishing tips and techniques and teach them to others. For more information, please contact 903-676-2277.

Did you know that age 16, Lance Armstrong participated in the Athens Triathlon conquering the field and setting a new course record? His record time of 49:16 still stands today. It was a great race then, attracting up and coming talent and the Athens Triathlon remains a great competition to this day. The 28th Annual Athens Triathlon will take place on March 16th at the Athens Cain Center. This 300 meter pool swim, 13.8 mile bike ride, 5 km run is safe, fairly flat and very fast. Excellent for first timers, the race is capped at 500. The Athens Triathlon is a USA Triathlon sanctioned event and all participants must hold an annual membership or single day permit. Awards are presented to 1st Overall Male/Female, 1st Male/Female Masters, 1st Overall Male/Female Grandmasters. Age groups range from 10-14 to 80+. For more information, please contact 903-677-2000.

April Fool's Day at the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center takes place the first Saturday in April with Outdoor Fools Day. Visitors can learn a variety of outdoor skills and engage in activities such as archery, fishing and kayaking. Members of various divisions of the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department and representatives of conservation groups and outdoor businesses will lead hands-on activities that will make you a better camper, angler and hunter. You never know what kind of new creature you will meet at the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center during Outdoor Fools Day. From snakes large and small to turtles and lizards, there's plenty of opportunity to get up close and personal and learn more about reptiles and nature.  For more information, please contact 903-676-2277.

The Athens Chamber of Commerce will host their 28th annual PRCA Stampede Rodeo at the Henderson County Regional Fair Park Complex on April 26th & 27th. Contestants come from across the country to compete in Team Roping, Barrel Racing, Calf Roping and Bull Riding. The rodeo kicks off on Friday night and there are activities planned for the kids. For more information, please contact 903-675-5181.

On May 4th, the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center will host the annual Cinco de Mayo Celebration from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.  This annual event features performances of traditional Mexican dances in the Hart-Morris Conservation Center. Area restaurants compete in a salsa contest and visitors will be able to sample the entries following the judging. Cinco de Mayo is a celebration of the joint heritage and history of Texas and Mexico.  For more information, please contact 903-676-2277.

The oldest contest of its kind, known nationwide, that has run continuously year after year is the 82nd annual Old Fiddlers Contest and Reunion. The big attraction is the Fiddlers Contest, which is broken down into five divisions from ages 66 and over to ages 18 and under.  A playoff between the 1st place winners in each of the five divisions compete for the title of Grand Champion, winning the Grand Prize of $600, in addition to the $200 already won by being the 1st place winner of his/her division. At the conclusion of the Fiddlers Contest, there will be an Acoustic Guitar Picking Competition for all ages. Once the competitions have concluded, it's time for the famous Street Dance, featuring a country western band with professional musicians playing until midnight! Come the day before for the Jam Session, on the courthouse lawn. This year, the event has moved one day forward with the Jam Session beginning at 7 p.m. on Friday, May 31st and the Contest starting at 9 a.m. on Saturday, June 1st, that will run all day.  Come to Athens and hear some of the best fiddlers music around!

Be sure and check out our events calendar at www.AthensTX.org for more information on these and other Athens' events coming up in 2013!