The Kids & Pets Issue
ARTS + CULTURE
TAKING CENTER STAGE
LIFE + CULTURE
RUFF RANGE DOG PARK
"CLOTHES"ING THE GAP
WHERE LEGACIES GATHER
Frisco’s Kids & Pets
August has a way of reminding us what matters most. Long summer days are slowly giving way to the anticipation of a new school year, families are savoring a few more moments together, and our pets are happily along for every adventure. That's exactly why our Kids & Pets issue is one of my favorites.
This month, we're celebrating the people, places, and programs that make Frisco such an extraordinary place to grow up. We take a look inside the new Frisco ISD Visual and Performing Arts Center, a stunning space that will inspire creativity and give students opportunities to discover their talents, express themselves, and shine on stage.
We're also highlighting a program that beautifully reflects the heart of our community. In "Clothes"ing The Gap, the Frisco ISD clothes closet, Frisco Threads, quietly serves students in need by providing clothing and essentials so every child can feel confident and ready to learn. It is a reminder that some of the most meaningful acts of kindness happen behind the scenes.
For our four legged family members, we visit Ruff Range Dog Park , where pups can run, play, and make a few furry friends of their own. Because around here, pets are family too.
And finally, we're shining a light on the incredible work of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Collin County. Their commitment to empowering young people through mentorship, education, and enrichment programs continues to make a lasting impact on countless families throughout our region.
Whether you're preparing backpacks, tossing tennis balls, or simply enjoying these final weeks of summer, I hope this issue inspires you to appreciate the creativity, compassion, and connections that make Frisco feel like home.
Here's to the kids who keep us dreaming, the pets who keep us laughing, and the community that brings us all together.
Thank you for sharing your stories with us. We'll see you around town!
August 2026
PUBLISHER
Barbara Ireland | Barbara.Ireland@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Danielle Poche | danielle.poche@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Katelyn Briscoe, Sharla Davenport, Jennifer Haveman, Alexis Jacobs
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Nicole Wierick
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
BARBARA IRELAND, PUBLISHER @FRISCOMAG
Summer went fast. Sunscreen, softball camp, and “just five more minutes” at the pool every night. Backpacks are packed. First-day outfits are picked. And in August, I’ll be right there in the pickup line with the rest of you.
I’m Scott Snellings. Dad, coach, and personal injury attorney right here in our community. My family and I work, play, and do life in this community because we love it. I practice law here because when your neighbors need help, you don’t look the other way.
If your family has been hurt in an accident, you don’t need a stranger from a billboard. You need someone who cares about your community because it’s their community too. You focus on healing. We’ll take care of everything else.
print + digital packages, your business captures attention wherever our community is looking. Build unmatched local credibility on the page, and drive immediate action online.
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
Frisco Progressive Dinner in the Frisco Rail District with stop at The Heritage Table 2: Former Frisco Mayor Mike Simpson and his wife enjoy Randy's Steakhouse with Progressive Dinner friends 3: Frisco Rail District Progressive Dinner stops at Eight 11, DiDi's Downtown, Randy's Steakhouse, Heritage Table 4: Frisco greets the Sweden men's national soccer team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup 5: Fifth Third Bank has their ribbon cutting in Frisco 6: Jack Ousley and Ben Watson watch Swedish FIFA World Cup team train at Toyota Stadium 7: Snellings Injury Law sponsors Melody of Hope event at Frisco Rail Yard
1:
CITY OF FRISCO
FRISCO CHAMBER
WATSON RODEO SC
business monthly
Kaleidoscope Park Expansion
Kaleidoscope Park in Frisco is growing again. Plans for the expansion project include additional 1.4 acres of green space, expanded Performance Lawn, a new water feature, and large outdoor video screen with performance stage designed to accommodate the park's increasing popularity. Since opening, the vibrant urban park has become a hub for concerts, fitness classes, and community events. The expansion will create even more opportunities for visitors to enjoy one of Frisco's most dynamic public spaces.
Firefly Park Breaks Ground
The groundbreaking of Firefly Park developed in partnership between Wilks Development and the Frisco EDC happened end of May 2026. This upcoming mixed-use development will feature beautiful natural spaces, ponds, trails, playgrounds, plus retail, restaurants, entertainment, offices, hotel rooms, and residential living. We are excited to see this project come to life! Firefly Park is located between US 380 and PGA Parkway along the Dallas North Tollway.
The Return TO ROUTINE
The start of a new school year brings excitement, fresh opportunities, and a return to routine. While shopping for school supplies and new clothes is important, preparing children mentally, physically, and emotionally can make the transition back to school much smoother.
One of the best ways to set kids up for success is by gradually reestablishing routines before the first day of school. Summer often brings later bedtimes and relaxed schedules, but returning to a consistent sleep routine a week or two before classes begin can help
children feel more rested and focused. Experts recommend school-aged children get between nine and twelve hours of sleep each night.
Parents can also help ease anxiety by talking positively about the upcoming school year. Discussing new teachers, classes, friends, and activities can help build excitement and confidence. For younger children or those attending a new school, visiting the campus beforehand can reduce first-day jitters and help them feel more comfortable in their new environment.
Organization is another key ingredient for a successful school year. Creating a designated space at home for backpacks, homework, and important papers can help streamline busy mornings and afternoons. A family calendar is also useful for keeping track of school events, sports practices, and extracurricular activities.
Healthy habits should remain a priority as school begins. Stocking the kitchen with nutritious snacks, planning balanced lunches, and encouraging physical activity can help children maintain their energy throughout the day. Don’t forget to schedule annual wellness checkups, eye exams, and any required vaccinations before school starts.
Finally, take time to talk with your children about goals for the upcoming year. Whether it’s improving grades, making new friends, trying a new activity, or simply staying organized, setting realistic goals can help children feel motivated and empowered.
Back-to-school season can feel hectic, but a little preparation goes a long way. By focusing on routines, organization, healthy habits, and open communication, families can help children start the year with confidence and excitement. Before long, those first-day nerves will be replaced with new friendships, valuable lessons, and memories that last all year long.
How Families Can Build Healthy Routines And Reduce First-Day Jitters
Creature Comforts
These Heartwarming Novels Celebrate The Unforgettable Bond Between People And Animals
There's something special about stories told through the eyes of an animal or those where animals quietly become some of the most memorable characters. They remind us of the unconditional love our pets offer, the comfort they provide during life's hardest moments, and the surprising ways they help us better understand ourselves. With this month's focus on kids and pets, it's the perfect time to pick up a novel that celebrates the remarkable bond between humans and animals.
Whether your family includes a playful puppy, a curious cat, or another beloved companion, these novels capture the unique relationships we share with animals. They're stories that will make you smile, reflect, and maybe even reach over to give your own four-legged friend an extra scratch behind the ears before turning the next page.
ARTICLE BY JENNIFER HAVEMAN
REMARKABLY BRIGHT CREATURES by Shelby Van Pelt
WEST WITH GIRAFFES by Lynda Rutledge
THE ART OF RACING IN THE RAIN by Garth Stein
TAKING Center Stage
FRISCO ISD UNVEILS A WORLD-CLASS HOME FOR THE ARTS
ARTICLE BY SHARLA DAVENPORT | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY FRISCO ISD
Did you know that 80% of students in Frisco Independent School District (FISD) participate in fine arts programs? With more than 63,000 students and a strong commitment to arts education, the district has long prioritized providing exceptional opportunities in the visual and performing arts.
In 2018, FISD took a major step toward that goal by proposing the creation of a Visual and Performing Arts Center (VPAC) for its students. Voters approved the plan as part of a $691 million bond package that funded new schools, facility improvements, and maintenance projects throughout the district. Of that amount, $43 million was specifically allocated to construct a state-of-the-art fine arts facility on land already owned by FISD.
Following extensive planning, public meetings, and board discussions, construction began in May 2024. One year later, FISD fine arts teachers, students, current and former board members, and district staff gathered at the construction site for a topping-off ceremony, signing one of the final structural beams to mark a significant milestone. Now, the FISD Visual and Performing Arts Center is set to officially open as students return to school this month.
The district’s vision for the VPAC is to expand opportunities for students while elevating fine arts programming across all grade levels. The facility will be used more than 160 days each year and may also host community events. With a 1,200-seat performance hall, the VPAC is twice the size of a typical FISD auditorium,
allowing for larger performances, productions, and events. The center will also provide space to host major academic competitions, including University Interscholastic League (UIL) events, reducing travel time for students and keeping them in the classroom.
The state-of-the-art facility includes a visual arts gallery, dance rehearsal studio, theater auditorium, and meeting spaces for professional development. Designed to support K-12 programming throughout the district, the VPAC has received widespread praise from teachers, staff, and administrators.
To celebrate the facility’s nearing completion, FISD hosted preview performances and art exhibits last spring. Nearly 7,000 community members toured the building and expressed excitement about its impact on students and the arts.
where students can share their talents,” says Dr. Todd Fouche, FISD Superintendent of Schools. “To now see students performing and creating in this space is both rewarding and inspiring. I’m grateful to the many people whose vision and support made the facility possible.”
That excitement is shared by Preston Hazzard, FISD Managing Director of Fine Arts.
“The Visual and Performing Arts Center was designed with students at the heart of every decision, and now they have a space that matches their talent and dedication.”
Throughout the summer, district staff focused on final commissioning, operational planning, and training in preparation for the opening.
“It has been incredible watching this project take shape from an idea on paper into a place
“It’s incredibly rewarding to see this vision become a reality,” Hazzard says. “The Visual and Performing Arts Center was designed with students at the heart of every decision, and now they have a space that matches their talent and dedication. I’m excited for our community to experience all that this facility will make possible for generations to come.”
Widely recognized in Texas and across the nation for its innovative fine arts programming, Frisco ISD continues to invest in opportunities that inspire creativity, collaboration, and student success. The new Visual and Performing Arts Center stands as a testament to that commitment and promises to serve generations of students for years to come.
“CLOTHES”ING THE GAP
HOW FRISCO THREADS IS STITCHING CONFIDENCE INTO THE COMMUNITY
ARTICLE BY KATELYN BRISCOE PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF TARA CHILDERS
A little girl steps into the shop, eyes wide, fingers trailing across rows of colorful clothes. She stops when a glimmer of sparkle catches her eye and pulls out a dress, the prettiest one she’s ever seen, and her face lights up. Minutes later, she’s clutching it in her hands, asking if she can wear it out the door. Moments like that are exactly why Frisco Threads exists.
Courtesy of Tara Childers.
As a clothes closet program led by the Frisco ISD council of PTAs, their first day open for the 2026-2027 school year will be Thursday, August 13th. They have been closed for the summer, but Chair for Community Relations Tara Childers and the Frisco Threads team have been preparing to serve students as summer ends.
“We provide clothing and shoes to economically disadvantaged students enrolled in Frisco ISD, and we’re supported entirely through clothing and monetary donations from donors and community partners,” Tara said. “Our mission is: we want every student in Frisco ISD, every student in need, to have access to clothing so they can feel confident and comfortable and ready to succeed. We really want to remove those barriers that impact their confidence and well-being, so they feel like they can fully participate in school.”
Realizing that there were programs that addressed food and hygiene insecurity but not shoes and clothing insecurity, Frisco Threads was born to close that gap and has served Frisco ISD students for the past five years. Tara said that over 1,900 hours of community service and over 150 volunteers went into keeping things running for the 2025-2026 school year, and they look forward to more as the need grows.
“I think it’s important that we make sure all of our students and community feel confident,” Tara said. “I think there’s a direct correlation between a student’s confidence and their ability to learn and be successful. I just saw it as a real, tangible way to give back, and then once we got started, I just fell in love with what we do and what we provide to the community.”
Once they open back up, Tara said they will begin accepting donations on Mondays and Thursdays of any clothing size 3T and up, clean and current style. Socks and underwear donations will need to be unopened packages, but they accept gently used tops, bottoms, coats, winter hats and gloves, and dresses.
“The times that it’s most touching is when families bring their kids in the shop, and you can just see the joy on a little girl’s face when she finds the prettiest dress and she’s so excited to take it home; a lot of times the kids even want to change into their clothes and wear them to school,” Tara said. “It’s really heartwarming to see the joy the kids find in finding that special top, that special dress, or cool pair of shoes, that they wouldn’t otherwise have been able to get.”
Frisco Threads accepts clothing donations on Mondays and Thursdays at the Acker Special Programs Center on 7159 Hickory Street and monetary donations online at friscopta.org/frisco-threads.html.
Courtesy of Tara Childers.
Courtesy of Tara Childers.
Courtesy of Tara Childers.
RUFF RANGE DOG PARK
A Tail-Wagging Destination In Frisco
For Frisco dog owners, Ruff Range Dog Park offers the perfect place for pups to run, play, and socialize in a safe, welcoming environment. Located on the south side of B.F. Phillips Community Park, the popular dog park is designed with both dogs and their owners in mind.
“Dogs can enjoy a variety of amenities, including agility equipment, play structures, water stations, and dog wash stations.”
Ruff Range features separate off-leash areas for large dogs and small dogs, helping ensure a comfortable experience for pets of all sizes. The securely fenced park allows dogs to exercise freely while owners enjoy peace of mind.
Dogs can enjoy a variety of amenities, including agility equipment, play structures, water stations, and dog wash stations. Shade structures and mature trees provide welcome relief during warmer months, while dog waste stations and complimentary disposal bags encourage responsible pet ownership.
The park is equally accommodating for humans. Visitors will find comfortable seating areas, shaded benches, picnic tables, pavilions, clean restrooms, drinking water stations, and convenient parking. Wi-Fi connectivity allows owners to stay connected while their pups burn off energy and make
new friends. Trash and recycling bins are located throughout the park to help keep the space clean and environmentally friendly.
Safety remains a priority at Ruff Range. The park’s double-gated entry system helps dogs enter and exit securely, and visitors are encouraged to familiarize themselves with park rules before visiting. The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset and closes each Wednesday for routine maintenance.
Whether you’re looking for a place to exercise an energetic puppy, socialize a new rescue, or simply enjoy a beautiful day outdoors with your canine companion, Ruff Range Dog Park continues to be one of Frisco’s premier destinations for dogs and their owners.
5335 4th Army Drive Frisco, TX 75034
TREY & KATIE KENNEDY
ON MARRIAGE, KIDS, AND THE COMEDY OF REAL LIFE
Trey Kennedy makes a living finding comedy in regular life. Marriage. Toddlers. Yoga pants. The Thursday-night scramble between school dropoffs, soccer practice, and whatever has to be done by morning. Twelve years in, it shows: millions of followers across every platform, three stand-up specials, a sold-out Relatable Tour, and a style of humor fans send each other captioned, “Are you watching me?” He delivers the kind of comedy that travels because everyone’s living some version of it.
Katie, his wife of six years, is a former biomedical engineer who also built a modeling career. She’s now raising their kids and co-hosting Correct Opinions alongside Trey — the show where the two of them swap takes on marriage, parenting, and whatever came up that week.
Trey has been at this longer than people realize. An Edmond, Oklahoma kid who grew up playing basketball described himself as a “shy kid who never thought he’d be an entertainer.” He started making videos while attending Oklahoma State University. After building millions of followers on Vine before the platform shut down, he gave himself six months on Instagram and Facebook to see whether he could rebuild from zero. He did. Stand-up soon followed. His first special, Are You For Real?, streams on YouTube; the second, Grow Up, on Amazon Prime; the third, built around the Relatable Tour, wrapped earlier this year. “I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now,” he says. A slow climb, made one bit at a time.
ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
“I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now.”
Most of what Trey writes lately starts in his own kitchen. Thomas is three and a half, and he is, in his father’s words, “a movie.” He narrates his own life from the moment his eyes open and mispronounces words in ways his parents now repeat to each other because no one else would believe them. His younger sister, Eva, is what Katie calls “the calm one.” With a third now in the mix, the Kennedys are officially outnumbered.
After six years of marriage, Trey and Katie have learned that the partnership runs best when it gets its own time on the calendar. So once a week, they leave the kids with a sitter and go out for coffee. “You need a system,” Katie says. “It’s about taking time to look each other in the eye. Not the kids. Not the cameras. Just each other.”
The same instinct shapes the work. Most of Trey’s trial and error happens onstage or on Instagram, but the first read is always Katie’s. “There’s only been one time ever I’ve had to be like, ‘you’re not doing that,’” she says. The rest of the time, she just laughs first.
FEATURING TREY & KATIE KENNEDY
Trey and Katie talk about marriage, parenting, and the moments that don’t make the Instagram feed.
Watch or listen to the full conversation wherever you get your podcasts.
HAIR & MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE
BY AMY TINNIN PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Homemade Dog Food
Recipe from Amy Tinnin - A Cup Full of Sass
ARTICLE
My two pugs are more than pets—they’re part of the family. That’s why I started making their food at home, and it’s been one of the most popular posts on my blog. You may be surprised just how easy this recipe is. I add all the ingredients to my slow-cooker to cook, and my dogs love it. If you decide to try this recipe for your pet, please consult your veterinarian. Every dog has different needs based on age, weight, and any health issues. You can even share this recipe with your vet to see if any changes are needed. The ingredients are flexible and can be easily swapped to substitute the turkey for chicken or beef, and even try different dog-safe vegetables. Making dog food at home isn’t hard—it just takes a little planning, and my dogs love it.
Slow Cooker Homemade Dog Food
Ingredients:
• 3 lbs ground turkey (85% lean)
• 1¼ cups frozen sweet potatoes
• 1½ cups frozen peas and carrots
• 1 cup frozen spinach
• 1½ cups uncooked brown or white rice
• 4 cups water
Directions:
1. Add all ingredients to a slow cooker.
2. Break up the ground turkey and mix all the ingredients.
3. Cover and cook on High for 3–4 hours or Low for 6 hours, stirring occasionally.
Note: My dog food was ready in 3½ hours on High. Let cool completely before serving. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze for later use.
OPENING Doors for Collin COUNTY’S FUTURE Leaders
Boys & Girls Clubs of Collin County
Empowers Youth Through Mentorship, Education, Opportunity, and Support
ARTICLE BY ALEXIS JACOBS
As Collin County continues to grow at a remarkable pace, ensuring that every child has access to opportunity remains one of the community’s greatest responsibilities. For Boys & Girls Clubs of Collin County (BGCCC), that mission is at the heart of everything they do.
Founded on the belief that every young person deserves the chance to succeed, BGCCC provides a safe, supportive environment where children and teens can learn, grow, and discover their potential. Through after-school programs, summer activities, academic support, mentorship, healthy meals, and enrichment opportunities, the organization helps young people build confidence and develop the skills they need for the future.
“At Boys & Girls Clubs of Collin County, our mission is to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring and responsible citizens,” says Shawn Wills, CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Collin County. “More than anything, we strive to ensure every child feels seen, supported and empowered to pursue a bright future.”
While Collin County is often viewed as a thriving and prosperous region, many local families face challenges that are not always visible. Rising living expenses, food insecurity, limited access to affordable childcare, and increasing mental health concerns can create significant barriers for children and their families.
Shawn explains that BGCCC works to address these challenges by providing affordable programs, nutritious meals and snacks, academic assistance, mentorship, and activities that support social and emotional well-being.
“We believe every child deserves access to opportunities that help them thrive, regardless of their circumstances,” she says.
The young people served by BGCCC come from a wide variety of backgrounds, but they share one important characteristic: potential. Through daily interactions, caring mentors, and meaningful programs, the organization helps youth recognize their strengths and imagine possibilities for their future.
Whether a student is improving academically, developing leadership skills, exploring career interests, or preparing for college, BGCCC provides resources and encouragement along the way.
One of the organization’s guiding beliefs is that exposure creates opportunity. Shawn says some of the most powerful moments occur when young people are introduced to experiences they may never have otherwise encountered.
Each summer, BGCCC offers college tours that take teens to universities, historically Black colleges and universities, community colleges, and trade schools. Participants can connect with students, advisors, and professionals while learning about educational and career pathways available to them.
“Through mentorship, field trips and workforce readiness programs, we witness transformative
“At Boys & Girls Clubs of Collin County, our mission is to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring and responsible citizens.”
moments when young people begin to see new possibilities for their future,” shares Shawn. “Those moments of discovery and confidence are at the heart of everything we do.”
As one of the fastest-growing counties in the nation, Collin County faces both opportunities and challenges when it comes to supporting its youngest residents. Shawn believes organizations like BGCCC play a vital role in providing stability, mentorship, and support during critical years of development.
“We believe investing in young people today strengthens our entire community for generations to come,” she says.
Community involvement remains essential to the organization’s success. Volunteers, mentors, donors, businesses, and community leaders all contribute to creating opportunities for Club members. Whether through financial support, sponsorships, employee volunteer programs, or mentorship, every contribution helps make a lasting difference.
Looking ahead, BGCCC is focused on expanding both its reach and impact throughout Collin County. The organization continues to strengthen programs centered on academic success, leadership development, workforce readiness, and emotional well-being.
“What excites us most is the opportunity to serve even more young people and help shape the next generation of leaders, innovators and changemakers in our community,” says Shawn. By 2030, the organization hopes to reach 30,000 youth across Collin County.
At its core, Boys & Girls Clubs of Collin County remains committed to a simple but powerful belief. Every child deserves the opportunity to succeed. With continued community support, the organization is helping ensure that more young people have the tools, encouragement, and opportunities they need to build great futures right here at home.
BGCCC.org
BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS
Boys & Girls Clubs of Collin County serves thousands of young people through programs designed to support academic success, character development, leadership growth, and healthy lifestyles. Club members have access to after-school and summer programs, homework assistance, nutritious meals and snacks, workforce readiness training, mentorship opportunities, and enrichment activities. A key focus is providing experiences that broaden horizons and create opportunities, including college tours, career exploration programs, and leadership development initiatives. Community members can support the mission through volunteering, mentoring, sponsorships, and donations. Every contribution helps create lasting impact and opens doors for local youth every day.
AUGUST 2026
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
AUGUST 3RD
Monday Movie Night: Jurassic Park
GRANDSCAPE TEXAS | 8:00 PM
Join us on the lawn at Grandscape on Monday, August 3rd to enjoy Monday Movie Night presented by Crest Cars. The evening film will be Jurassic Park starting at 8:00PM. With larger-than-life dinosaurs and nonstop excitement, it's the perfect summer night experience. Bring snacks, water, and good vibes! Learn more at Grandscape.com
AUGUST 5TH
Mug Club Meet Up
THREE EMPIRES BREWING | 6:00 PM
Every Wednesday from 6-9PM at Three Empires Brewing is Mug Club Meet Up! Wednesday nights are for big beers, great company, and even better deals at the Brewery. Mug Club members receive and extra $1 off every beer. Join the Mug Club that night and start enjoying member benefits. 20+ oz pours. Drink Local. Stay awhile. ThreeEmpiresBrewery.com
AUGUST 7TH
One Night of Billy: The Piano Man Legacy
ROLLERTOWN BEERWORKS | 7:00 PM
The Backyard is turning into a full-on New York state of mind. On Friday, August 7, One Night of Billy takes over Rollertown for a massive night celebrating the music of Billy Joel. Cold Rollertown beer will be flowing while you and your friends singalong to the hits. Get there early under the Texas night sky! Info at RollertownBeerworks.com
AUGUST 7TH
AVP Beach Volleyball
COMERICA CENTER | 6:00 PM
AVP League Week 8 returns to Comerica Center August 7-8. Competition begins at 6:00 PM nightly with full roster of top beach volleyball atheltes, including six olympians. Secure your tickets now and be a part of the marquee event showcasing elite talent. Purchase tickets at AVP.com/event/2026leagueweek8/
AUGUST 20TH
Frisco Roughriders Rowdy Lazy River Game
ROUGHRIDERS DR PEPPER BALL PARK | 7:05 PM
Each Thursday, 21+ Adults, can enjoy the Lazy River as part of the Twisted Tea Rowdy at the River. Tickets are just $25 per person and gets you into the game. Fans can bring their own towels and change of clothing. The RoughRiders provide floats. $2 Twisted Tea, Truly, and canned beer until 8PM.
AUGUST 29TH
MJ LIve
LEGACY HALL | 8:00 PM
Summer is about to get LOUD! MJ Live, a Michael Jackson Tribute Concert, happens at Legacy Hall the end of August. Doors open at 7PM and show starts at 8PM. Presented by RNC Entertainment at Lexus Box Garden at Legacy Hall. Learn more at @MJLiveShow
Want to be featured?
DIY At Home Theater
Our family had so much fun creating this At-Home Movie Theater party for our son Ezra’s 8th birthday. All you need is a projector and an outdoor space, but I wanted to jazz it up just a little bit more.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY
BY LEANN PARKER
TICKET BOOTH
I created a ticket booth and concession stand for a full movie theater experience to ensure that our movie night felt like our guests were actually going to a movie theater and not just our house. In an attempt to achieve that, we set up a ticket booth at the front door using our kids’ old puppet theater.
Materials:
• Tickets
• Ticket Booth (optional)
Before entering our theater (aka our backyard), I set up a shadow box for guests to place their entry ticket.
PEGBOARD DISPLAY WALL
I love displaying food in a creative way at our parties. I made this simple DIY Popcorn Display Wall as a statement piece in our concession stand. We have also used it in many other ways for other parties such as a donut wall, bagel wall, pretzel wall and more. You can easily recreate your own for your next party.
Materials:
• Pegboard. I chose the 4ft square size at Lowe’s for $10 and spray-painted it white.
• Frame (optional). I bought two 1x4’s for $5 each, cut two pieces 4ft long and two pieces 3.5ft long, stained Minwax walnut, attached to pegboard with screws through the back.
• Twine to string popcorn bags. Or, if you’re using the pegboard display for donuts, bagels or pretzels then use golf tees hot-glued into holes from behind!
• Clothespins to hang popcorn bags.
• Popcorn bags
CONCESSION STAND
My daughter handed out tickets for guests to use to “purchase” their popcorn, candy and drinks at the concession stand.
Materials:
• Popcorn Machine (optional)
• Popcorn
• Popcorn flavors for guests to get creative!
• Candy - Use boxes rather than bags for movie theater vibes!
• Soda - Use bottles rather than cans
• Napkins
• Cupcake toppers & plates (if it’s a birthday celebration)
• Reused boxes and spray-painted them white for guests to easily carry their snacks
SET THE SCENE!
FINISHING TOUCHES
I cut out red stars (from foam sheets) and stuck them to the floor (with adhesive putty) to lead guests through the house to the concession stand and back outside to where our movie was going to take place. Finally, our guests could choose their seating on chairs or blankets around our yard. I also set up a little bug-spray table for people to grab as needed. Dramatic play, even as an adult, is so much fun! Who says staying home can’t be just as entertaining?
I hope you have as much fun at your party as we did! I’d love if you tagged me @silvertoothfarmhome so I can see your At-Home Movie Theater too!! In reflecting on the party, my son said that “the best part of the night was eating candy with my friends.” After all, people are what matter most!
BeefTournedos - 12 Ounces Of Filet Tips With Cognac, Bordelaise Sauce - 12-Ounce Prime Rib (Friday Only) - Parmesan Crusted Tilapia - Blackberry Filet Mignon - 8-Ounce Filet Mignon
- Chicken Marsala
- Pork Chop With Bourbon Peach Glaze