Home > Things to Do > Festivals, Parades & Special Events > Dogwood Trails Celebration

Dogwood Trails Celebration

March 21 - April 6, 2025 Palestine, Texas

A lot can happen over a cup of coffee, and in 1938, the Texas Dogwood Trails were born from a casual conversation about the unique landscape and beauty of the blooms in the region. This beloved tradition has been going strong for over 80 years, drawing thousands of visitors to soak in the stunning dogwood blooms and join in the fun festivities.

In 2023, Palestine, TX, proudly became the official Dogwood Trails Capital of Texas. This long-time celebration takes place during the last two weekends in March and the first weekend in April. Enjoy the delicate beauty of the dogwood trees in Davey Dogwood Park and the surrounding area. There's a variety of activities scheduled each weekend to make the celebration even more special.

Dogwood Bloom Trolley Tour

Update: The Dogwood Trolley Tours are completely sold out for 2025! You are welcome to drive through the Davey Dogwood Park and enjoy the blooms at your own pace. The park is open to the public daily.

From March 21-23, hop aboard our guided trolley tour and experience the breathtaking beauty of Davey Dogwood Park in full bloom! This scenic 5.5-mile ride starts at the Palestine Visitor Center, taking you on a journey through stunning landscapes while uncovering the rich history of Davey Dogwood Park and the Dogwood Trails Celebration. You’ll also learn why Palestine is proudly known as the Dogwood Trails Capital of Texas!

📅 Tour Dates & Times:
🚋 03/21 (Friday) – 3:00 PM
🚋 03/22 (Saturday) – 8:00 AM
🚋 03/23 (Sunday) – 2:00 PM

🎟 Tickets are $5 per person and can be purchased at the Palestine Visitor Center or online. (Links below)

Don’t miss this magical springtime adventure—come enjoy the ride!

Visit Palestine | 825 W Spring St | 800-659-3484 | visitorcenter@palestine-tx.org

The Sound of Music

Experience the world-renowned musical "The Sound of Music" at the Historic Texas Theatre on March 28-30 and April 4-6, with showtimes at 7:30PM on Fridays and Saturdays, and 2:00PM on Sundays. This family-friendly production tells the heartwarming story of a lively governess who brings joy and music into a naval Captain's home. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students (4-18).

The Texas Theatre | 213 W Crawford St | 903-394-2173 | Purchase tickets here.

Dogwood Brunch at Queen St Grille

Celebrate the Dogwood Trails Celebration with a special Dogwood Brunch at Queen St Grille. Join them Saturdays and Sundays from 10 AM – 2 PM for a carefully curated brunch featuring seasonal Dogwood-inspired menu items available for a limited time.

Enjoy a delicious meal in the elegant setting of Queen St Grille, located inside the historic Redlands Hotel. Whether you're indulging in a signature dish, sipping a mimosa, or gathering with friends and family, this brunch is the perfect way to complement your Dogwood Trails weekends.

Reservations available but not required.

Make your brunch plans and enjoy a taste of spring in Palestine!

Queen St Grille | 400 N Queen St | 903-723-2404 | www.queenstgrille.com

Redlands History Hunt

Step into the past and explore the charm of the historic Redlands Hotel with a fun-filled scavenger hunt happening every weekend of the Dogwood Trails Celebration! Whether you're a history buff, a puzzle solver, or just looking for a unique way to explore Palestine, this adventure is for you.

🗺️ What to Expect:
🔹 Child & Adult Scavenger Hunts – Follow the clues and uncover fascinating history hidden throughout the hotel.
📸 Dogwood Photo Op – Capture the perfect springtime moment with a beautiful Dogwood-themed photo backdrop inside the hotel.
🔹 Self-Guided Fun – Take your time exploring at your own pace and enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience in a historic setting.

Come for the history, stay for the adventure, and leave with unforgettable memories!

Redlands Hotel | 400 N Queen | 903-729-2345 | https://theredlandshotel.com/

Railroad Heritage Center

Step into the golden age of railroading and experience the magic of the tracks at the Railroad Heritage Center! Marvel at the impressive 37’ x 17’ HO scale model railroad, crafted by Paul A. Domis, where intricate details bring the romance of the rails to life.

Railroads have played a pivotal role in shaping Palestine’s history, driving commerce, connecting communities, and leaving a lasting impact on East Texas. Explore fascinating exhibits showcasing the town’s deep railroad heritage and discover how the rails helped Palestine thrive.

This spring, spot the hidden dogwoods woven into the display and embark on a scavenger hunt to uncover special surprises throughout the exhibit.

🎟️ Admission: $5.00

Whether you're a train enthusiast, a history buff, or just looking for a unique experience, the Railroad Heritage Center is a must-see destination during the Dogwood Trails Celebration!

Railroad Heritage Center | 808 W Oak St | 903-586-7141

Saturdays on Main

April 5, 2025 | 8AM-10PM
Wrap up the Dogwood Trails Celebration with a day of discovery, shopping, and local flavors at Saturdays on Main, happening on the final weekend of the celebration. Immerse yourself in the charm of downtown Palestine, where local businesses, unique boutiques, and antique shops offer special event sales, perfect for finding a keepsake from your Dogwood Trails visit.

Start your morning at the Palestine Farmers Market, where you’ll find fresh produce, homemade goods, and artisan crafts from local vendors. Then, dive into railroad history at the Railroad Heritage Center, where a model train display captures the magic of the rails, or enjoy hands-on fun at the Curious Museum, where interactive STEM-focused exhibits engage visitors of all ages.

As you explore, take in the beauty of downtown’s springtime blooms, snap a photo with a Dogwood-themed backdrop, and savor local flavors at one of the many restaurants. From steakhouses and casual fine dining to Mexican cuisine, Cajun specialties, and fresh-baked sweets, there’s something for every taste.

While enjoying the day, please be mindful of ongoing revitalization efforts throughout downtown. We’re enhancing the area’s historic charm, and your safety is our priority.

Whether you're shopping, dining, exploring, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, Saturdays on Main is the perfect way to close out the Dogwood Trails Celebration.

Don’t miss this final weekend of festivities in downtown Palestine!

Palestine Main Street | 825 W Spring St | 800-659-3484

Specialty Dining at Restaurant Aubergine

Pizza! Pasta! & Pavlova!

March 21, 28 & April 4

Chef Simon Webster serves pizza from his acclaimed wood-fired pizza oven. Meal is served family-style and includes gourmet salad, wood-fired pizza, handmade pasta & his signature New Zealand Pavlova.

Reservations required
BYOB

Bistro Dining

March 22, 29 & April 5

3 course prix fixe menu. Choose from a selection of appetizers, entrees and desserts featuring seasonal & local menu items inspired by Chef Webster's global influence.

Reservations required
BYOB

Dogwood Brunch

March 23 & 30 & April 6

Plated gourmet breakfast with complimentary Mimosa.

Seating available from 9:30AM to 12:00 PM.

Reservations required
BYOB

Sabor A Pasion Estate & Vineyard | 110 County Road 406 | 903-729-9500 | https://www.saborapasion.com/

Missions Outreach 2025 5K

April 5, 2025 | 9:00 AM
The 5K will start and end at the Palestine Area Chamber of Commerce, 401 W. Main St. Pre-registration will be online and includes an event t-shirt, children 10 and under are FREE! All proceeds are benefitting the Missions Outreach 2025.

Register for the run here.

Evangelistic Temple Palestine | 3011 N Loop 256 | 903-729-2863 | https://www.etpalestine.com/

Official Dogwood Bloom Watch: 2025

As of March 19, 2025, Most of the early blooming trees have fully opened. There are some mid-season blooming trees that are just beginning to open, and we hope that they will be opened by the festival and opening of Fairy Garden Trails this weekend. Please be advised, due to unseasonably cool weather and less rainfall, the trees are blooming slightly later this year!
The tree pictured is located inside Davey Dogwood Park.

Dogwood Arts Council's VIP Art Celebration

Kick off the Dogwood Arts & Music Festival with an evening dedicated to creativity and connection at the VIP Art Event on Friday, March 21, 2025, from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM. Immerse yourself in an elegant atmosphere filled with stunning artwork, sip on refreshing drinks, enjoy delicious hors d’oeuvres, and engage with the talented artists behind the pieces. Whether you're a seasoned collector or simply an art enthusiast, this exclusive event is the perfect way to start the festival in style!

🎟️ Tickets for the VIP Art Event are $25 per person (21+ only) and can be purchased at:

Palestine Chamber of Commerce
Redlands Hotel
Online at Givebutter.com/DACArt2025

Can't make it to the VIP event? No worries! The Dogwood Arts Council Art Show will be open to the public for free on Saturday, March 22, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Stop by to meet the artists, explore incredible works, and maybe even take home a new favorite piece! The Art Show will be held alongside the Dogwood Festival in downtown Palestine, making it a perfect addition to your festival experience.

Dogwood Arts Council | 813 W Spring St | 903-922-5794 | info@dogwoodartscouncil.com

Dogwood Arts & Music Festival and Parade

Get ready for a day filled with creativity, entertainment, and community spirit at the Dogwood Arts & Music Festival in Palestine’s historic Main Street District! Wander through vibrant artist booths, shop from unique arts and crafts vendors, and indulge in delicious fair food. Enjoy live street performances, a dedicated kids’ activity zone, interactive photo ops, and so much more.

The festival kicks off with the Dogwood Parade at 10 a.m., where colorful floats, performers, and community groups will bring the streets to life. The parade route begins at the Courthouse, traveling down Avenue A, onto Spring Street, then turning right onto Queen Street, right onto Crawford Street, and finishing at the Courthouse Annex.

This is a free event for all ages, so bring your family and friends and celebrate the arts, music, and vibrant culture of Palestine. Don’t miss this signature springtime tradition!

Palestine Area Chamber of Commerce | 903-729-6066 | 401 W Main St | palestinechamber.org

Download the Dogwood Festival Map and Flyer!

Fairy Garden Trails

Discover a world of magic and creativity at Davey Dogwood Park's Annual Fairy Garden Trail. Meander through the charming pathways lined with unique fairy houses and the natural beauty of the park. Each turn of the trail reveals a new whimsical creation, sure to delight visitors of all ages.

The Fairy Garden Trails will be open from March 22nd to April 30th, from dawn until dusk, offering plenty of time to immerse yourself in the enchantment.

Don't miss our Fairy Garden Workshop on March 11th from 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM! It's the perfect opportunity to forage for natural materials, collaborate with fellow fairy garden enthusiasts, share ideas, and craft your own miniature wonderland.

If you'd like to be a part of the Fairy Garden Trails and Workshop, Click Here to register. Note that the trails are free for everyone to enjoy!

Visit Palestine | 900 N Link St | 800-659-3484 | visitorcenter@palestine-tx.org

Old Time Music & Dulcimer Festival

March 27 - 29, 2025 | A festival with a laid back attitude and really great music! Some of the best dulcimer and old time music artists from around the country serve as headliners for the concerts and lead the workshops. Friday and Saturday are filled with live performances, jamming sessions, concerts & workshops.

Palestine Old Time Music & Dulcimer | 5700 N Loop 256 | 936-222-1892 | oldpalmusic.com

Boston Porter Memorial Rodeo & Kids Rodeo

Join us for an exciting day of rodeo action, featuring events for both kids and adults. The Boston's Buckaroos Kid Rodeo will include a variety of fun activities for young cowboys and cowgirls. Later in the evening, the Boston Porter Memorial Rodeo will bring thrilling rodeo competitions to the arena. Don't miss this fun-filled day!

Date: March 22, 2025

Times: Kid Rodeo at 1:00 PM, Main Rodeo at 7:00 PM

Tickets:

Kid Rodeo: $8 general admission. Register kids at the Dogwood Trails Festival from 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM for the event.
Main Rodeo: $12 in advance at Cavender's; $15 at the gate. Children 6 & under enter free.

Anderson County Youth Livestock Arena | 750 HWY US-287 | 903-731-4943

Curious Museum

Curious Museum, Palestine’s hands-on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math) museum, invites you to explore, create, and discover during the Dogwood Trails Celebration!

On Saturday, March 22, join us for Art Day, where hands-on art activities blend science and creativity. Admission is half-price, and the museum will be open from 9 AM – 5 PM.
🔬 You can also visit the Curious booth downtown during the Dogwood Festival for an engaging art-science exhibit and a fun, interactive activity.

Throughout Fridays to Sundays during Dogwood Trails, visitors can enjoy an extra hands-on activity at the museum at no additional cost.

Then, on Saturday, April 5, Curious Family Day will focus on technology-inspired fun. Explore a Tesla Cybertruck, build a Rube Goldberg-style chain reaction, create tech jewelry, light-up mobiles, and sculptures, and experience interactive exhibits that spark curiosity.

Curious Museum is open Fridays–Sundays from 10 AM – 3 PM year-round. Admission is $10 for children and adults, $8 for seniors, and free for members and children under 2. The first Sunday of each month is Half-Price Sunday.

Come explore the magic of science, technology, art, and creativity—where learning is always an adventure!

Curious Museum | 619 W Oak St | 903-221-0118 | https://thecuriousmuseum.org/

Stained Glass Tours

Sacred Heart Catholic Church
March 22nd 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM
March 29th 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Experience the stunning stained glass, intricate detailing, and breathtaking architecture of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, a historic gem in Palestine.

Originally built in 1874 as St. Joseph’s Church, the current Victorian Gothic-style structure was completed in 1893, designed by renowned architect Nicholas J. Clayton—also known for Bishop’s Palace in Galveston. Constructed with hand-molded bricks made on-site from Trinity River mud, the church features exquisite stained glass windows from Italy and France, intricate woodwork, and a Pilcher pipe organ installed in 1926.

Recognized on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979, Sacred Heart remains one of the few churches of its kind in Texas. Whether you admire history, architecture, or faith, this extraordinary site is a must-see.

Sacred Heart Catholic Church | 503 N Queen St | 903-729-2463

First Christian Church
March 22nd 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Step inside one of Palestine’s oldest congregations and experience the rich history of First Christian Church. Established over a century ago, this beautiful brick church was constructed in 1905 and remains a cherished landmark in the community. The chapel in the educational building, adorned with stunning memorial windows, is a true centerpiece of the church and a source of pride for its members.

While you're there, enjoy a delicious Taco Soup lunch available from 11 AM – 1 PM for just $10.

Don’t miss this opportunity to explore a piece of Palestine’s history and enjoy a warm, homemade meal!

First Christian Church | 113 E Crawford St | 903-729-5440