Dancing, history, and the world of Dr. Seuss-there’s plenty to do this summer in Abilene. Explore these events for a taste of West Texas history and culture:
West Texas Western Swing Festival (June 5-9, 2012)
The 16th annual West Texas Western Swing Festival in Snyder, Texas, draws fans of western swing from around the world. The event will kick off with a burger and beans meal on Tuesday, June 5, followed by an informal jam session. The official opening ceremony will be Wednesday, June 6 at noon. Enjoy the music and dancing until Saturday with performances beginning twice daily at 12:30 and 6:30 p.m.
Fort Griffin Fandangle (June 21-23 and 28-30, 2012)
See West Texas history come alive at Texas’ oldest outdoor musical in Albany, Texas. See sights such as cowboys on the trail, a stagecoach chased by Indians, buffalo hunters, covered wagons, and an old-fashioned calliope.
Fandangle began as a theatrical history written and directed by Albany native Robert Nail in 1938. Today, Fandangle is still a community production put on in Albany’s own prairie theater. The Fort Griffin Fandangle is held annually the last two full weekends in June. Over 10,000 people come each year to see Fandangle and witness a piece of Texas history. Tickets are $15, or $20 for box seats.
Children’s Art and Literacy Festival (CALF)
See the world of Dr. Seuss brought to life in downtown Abilene June 14-17, 2012. Children and adults alike can see the movies, watch eight dramatic presentations of Dr. Seuss’s best loved books, meet the characters, and explore the art of Dr. Seuss’s works at locations throughout Abilene.
Early registration is $10 for adults, $5 for children. The first 250 families to register will receive a $10 gift card to either Buffalo Bill’s Wild Wings or Famous Dave’s. Registration includes entrance to eight different dramatic presentations, exhibits and art activities throughout downtown, the Frontier Texas! play area, Hodge Podge in Garage, and half-price admittance to the Grace Museum, Frontier Texas! and the Abilene Zoo.
Craftapalooza (July 21, 2012)
Craftapaoolza is a one-day arts and crafts shopping extravaganza held at the Abilene Civic Center. Booths will include arts and crafts, trendy boutiques, independent designers and artisans, and home décor and gifts. Be sure to check out JUNKoRMA, a sale of antique, vintage, recycled, and repurposed items. Show hours are 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 21. Vendor booths are still available.
