April in McKinney (2013)

There’s no doubt about the fact that Spring is in full swing in McKinney, despite what Mother Nature was telling us with those mid-March colder-than-usual temps.

We’ve had several visitors in our offices the past week from northern regions of the country – Michigan, Wisconsin, and New York – and all of them, without fail, have asked if this weather is normal. They  no doubt came here hoping to escape the cold, which most did as their home states were all suffering from inch upon inch of snow.

So now that we prepare to turn the calendar to a new month, we wanted to share some of the things to be looking for in April. We’ll be updating this blog entry as we learn more, and to add links as we find them, so we invite you to come back and check this particular blog entry throughout the month.

Something New & Different:
High Noon on the Courthouse Lawn – Fridays in April and May
Grab a lunch and head to the downtown square to sit on the lawn or at bistro tables around the McKinney Performing Arts Center (a.k.a. the historic courthouse). Most of the downtown restaurants will offer lunches to go, too! Entertainment will include various musicians, fitness fun (hula hoop contest, table tennis,  and cycling) and even mechanical bull riding. Fridays in April and May, noon-1 p.m.

Chicken Coop & Victory Garden Tour – April 20
We can’t wait for this first-time event because it features backyard chicken coops and gardens within the historic district – talk about fun and different! The tour is free, starting at D&L AgMart at 201 W. University. (You even get free breakfast when you stop in between 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.) Other goodies along the way, too. Check it out at the McKinney Historical Neighborhood Association website.

Shopping & Eating
Ladies Night Out at the Heard-Craig Center- April 18
Enjoy delicious hors d’oeuvres, desserts, memorable music and appreciate the good fortune of being able to shop at some of the most unique and elegant retailers in the area…all in one location! Call 972-569-6909 to make reservations.

Cupcake Bliss Class – April 2
Learn about baking special cupcakes during a class at Market Street with food blogger and radio personality Lorie Fangio.

Heard Spring Native Plant Sale – April 5-7
Select from a wide assortment of landscape plants that are native to Texas- beautiful and drought-resistant to add color and depth to your garden.

Third Monday Trade Days – April 12-14
Old Red Lumberyard & the Flour Mill District Shopping Days – April 12-13

The Arts!
49th Annual Collin County Adult Art Show and Student Art Show - April 5-7
Hosted by the Art Club of McKinney at Heard-Craig Center for the Arts.

Heard-Craig Garden Concert Series – April 11 & April 25
The annual garden concert series features the E-Flat Porch Band on April 11 and the McKinney Community Band on April 25. Concerts are free and start at 7 p.m. in Katie’s Garden at the Heard-Craig House.

Fibers, Brushes and More – April 12
Participants will create four projects at four downtown studios/businesses – Diggin’ It, Happiness Is…Quilting, Wild Brush Studios and Walls of Clay.

Arts in Bloom – April 13
This all-day event is a perfect opportunity to experience the magic of McKinney’s historic shopping district during the spring season with art, music, food and much more. Also going on as part of the event: Art in the Making, Second Saturday on the Square, and Chalk Walk, among other happenings around the square that day.

Fun with Wellness & The Great Outdoors
Spring Family Fun Day (Part of the Mayor’s Health Partnership) – April 6
Family fun at Cooper Fitness in Craig Ranch featuring fit kid demonstrations, sand pit relays, healthy snack creation and more. Open to the public; $5 non-members, free for members. 11 a.m.- 2 p.m.

Heard Museum’s Celebrate Nature event – April 6
Explore the various habitats on the 289-acre Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary as well as enjoying family activities, live music and animal presentations in the outdoor amphitheater. Refreshments will be available for purchase.

Color Me Cooper 5K/10K – April 20
Start the off-road foot race dressed in white and cross the finish line covered in colors!

We’re in the process of getting these events loaded on our website and on our app, too, so you’ll soon be able to find them there, too.

A Romantic Surprise…With a Little Help from His Funny Friends

Photo Credit: Mark Woods

Three decades ago, Cliff Cubbage (of Allen) proposed to his bride-to-be Linda in his car. But Saturday night in McKinney, Cliff was more public, this time asking his wife to renew their vows while on stage in front of a comedy show audience of more than 400.

“When I first asked Linda to marry me, I chickened out and instead of asking her over dinner at Red Lobster, I asked her in the car. [A couple years ago], Linda said it would have been nice if I had asked her in the restaurant,” Cliff said. “I was going to take her to Red Lobster again [this year] with everyone in the family and ask her to redo our vows for our 30^th anniversary.”

Enter McKinney’s all-female comedy troupe, the Four Funny Females, who came into the picture after the Cubbages attended one of their January shows.

“Sitting there at the show, I was thinking [they] might be able to help me go above and beyond my own expectations,” Cliff said.

Cliff met with Bartlett to share ideas about a special surprise for his wife, and she asked him if he’d mind the re-proposal being built into the show.

“He said he was game for anything,” Bartlett said.

During this meeting, Cliff related to Bartlett the circumstances behind his request, which dated back to 1995 when a bad fall dislocated his left shoulder, lower back, and left ankle, and crushed his right knee, leaving him in pain and disabled.

“[At one time], I was taking 39 medications. [A few years ago], I was rushed to the hospital three different times. That last time, when my wife walked in the room, [the way] she looked at me, I knew I had to make some changes,” Cliff said. “I stopped taking 22 of the medications, I started reading the Bible and what I was reading told me I needed to fix my marriage.”

The idea of renewing their vows seemed the perfect way for Cliff to rededicate himself to Linda.

“After I heard his story, I knew we needed to make this more special than just inviting him onstage,” Bartlett said.

A few phone calls to local businesses explaining the romantic request resulted in donations of special touches for the evening: a tuxedo rental from Men’s Warehouse (in Allen), a bouquet of roses from The Lily Pad Flower Shop, a romantic dinner at Café Malaga, and sweets from Nothing Bundt Cakes. The comedy troupe also gave the couple a special-label bottle of wine from Landon Winery, and Bartlett contacted Red Lobster (in Plano), who donated a gift card.

The night of the Feb. 9 show arrived, and Cliff and Linda took their seats at the McKinney Performing Arts Center, ready for an evening of laughter followed by dinner with the family and friends attending the show with them. Cliff had taken Linda to have her hair and nails done and had bought her a red gown for the evening out, so she had an idea he was planning something.

Photo by MCVB

As headliner Linda Stogner took the stage, Cliff excused himself to the restroom, when in reality he was sneaking into the MPAC Green Room where the comics helped him do a quick-change into the tux. Comics Jodi Hadsell and Sherry Belle, who had finished their sets, worked with the back-stage volunteers gathering the goodies and listening for their cue. As the show ended, Belle went into the audience to escort Linda from the front row onto the stage.

“Come on. Huuuhhh-neh,” Belle said in her thick Louisiana drawl, grabbing Linda’s hand. “You’re come’n with me!”

“You think you’re just here for a night out with family,” Bartlett told Linda, as they stood center stage. “But you’re really here because your husband wanted to make this a special evening for you.”

The tux-clad Cliff appeared from behind the curtain, walked to center stage, handed the roses to Linda, and took a knee in front of his stunned wife. The audience cheered.

“To the world, you are just a person, but to me, you are my world,” he said, holding her hand. “Buttercup, will you be my Valentine?”

Following a kiss and more enthusiastic applause from the sold-out audience, Cliff continued.

“I love you with all my heart. Linda Marie Friend Cubbage, will you marry me all over again for the second time?” he asked, pulling the ring box from his pocket.

Photo: MCVB

Barlett held a microphone for Cliff so the audience could hear the proposal, adding her own narration, “She said ‘yes!’,”eliciting more applause and a standing ovation. “And she said ‘yes’ again!”

Backstage after the show, the Cubbages posed for photos with the comics.

“I knew he was doing something, but I just thought he’d do something while we were having dinner with the family,” a beaming Linda said. “My husband’s never done anything like this. And I’ve never even seen him in a tux! I’m still in shock!”

The Cubbages will renew their vows on September 4, 2013, their 30^th wedding anniversary.

For more about the Four Funny Females, visit www.FourFunnyFemales.com.

To see more photos of this event (including backstage shots), visit the MCVB Facebook page, Destination McKinney Texas.

Ring Them Bells: It’s Christmastime in McKinney!

And so the Christmas season has begun again in McKinney, the holidays official rung in over Thanksgiving weekend at Dickens of a Christmas: Home for the Holidays and the wonderful Believe Run with its Great Santa Chase. That weekend was the precursor of a month full of feel-good, homey activities in McKinney ahead of us, a time when the community comes together to celebrate all we hold dear, and a time to reach out to those who might need help. (In McKinney, the desire to help others is happily a year-round attitude. That being said, please drop a contribution in the red kettles while you’re out and about. We have a very active Salvation Army and they will appreciate your support.)

Take a gander at what is coming up in the month of December, mark your calendars and by all means, please take part in one, three or many of them. You’ll be glad you did, and your cheeks will feel rosier!

The Arts: Music, Drama & Visual

There’s still time to see Dicken’s “A Christmas Carol,” the classic holiday tradition from the McKinney Repertory Theatre at the McKinney Performing Arts Center (Dec. 1-2.  Tickets are available online or by calling 214-544-4630.

Join McKinney’s own Jon Christopher Davis (pictured at right) for Wales Manor’s first Music Under the Stars Holiday Concert (Dec. 1, 7-10:15 p.m). Admission is $10/person. Bring a lawn chair and blankets, but no outside beverages. Wine, margaritas, sodas and water for sale, and oven-fired pizza!

The Krakatuk Ballet presents two performances of A Nutcracker Prequel Ballet (Dec. 12 for schools; Dec. for the public). The story includes an evil mouse queen, a king, queen, princess, sausages, nursemaids, cats, a very hard nut to crack and a boy who is able to crack it. Tickets are at MPAC.

The all-volunteer McKinney Community Band is holding its first public Christmas Concert, “Sounds of the Seasons” (Dec. 14, 7;30 p.m.) at Christ Fellowship Church in McKinney, 2801 Orchid, just off Eldorado. Admission is free, and the church will have its coffee shop open for purchases of hot chocolate, coffee, cookies and other yummy goodies.

Enjoy the Romance of Christmas Concert with Erica Lane and Dustin Keele (MPAC, Dec. 14, 8 p.m.). Tickets are $20 and $22.

The Turtle Creek Chorale brings laughter, joy and the most beautiful music of the season to MPAC (Dec. 15, 2 p.m. & 7 p.m.) in their “Comfort & Joy” concert. Tickets are $20 and $30.

Second Saturday (Dec. 8, 7-10 p.m.) as always showcases the art of wonderful local and regional artists at our downtown art galleries. For a list of participating galleries and businesses, click HERE.

The annual Heard-Craig Center for the Arts hosts its annual Holiday Tea & Conversation (Dec. 12) program this year, showcasing the amazing voices of the McKinney High School Harmony group and the Boyd High School Jazz Choir.

Holiday Sights and Lights

The McKinney Rotary Club presents the 13th Annual Christmas Parade of Lights (Dec. 1, 6:30 p.m.) around the historic downtown square. This year’s parade features the theme, “Christmas at the Movies.” Gather your family and friends to see all of the beautifully decorated and lighted floats as we kick off the festive Christmas season, McKinney-style. Then hang around the square for dinner and live music!

The first weekend of December (Dec. 1-2) has been The Heritage Guild of Collin County Holiday Tour of Homes since 1973! Every year, five or six homes and historic structures are decorated for Christmas for the tour. Proceeds from ticket sales and raffle are a major component to the ongoing operation of Chestnut Square. Tickets are $20 at the door/$15 in advance and are available online or at locales downtown; 12 and under free.

The Heard Museum hosts its Holiday Trail of Lights (Dec. 14-15, 6:30-9 p.m.) where guests will see thousands of holiday lights–many synchronized to holiday music–along a half mile Heard nature trail. Have a photo taken with Father Christmas and Mother Nature in a festive setting. Enjoy hot beverages and treats. Listen to live holiday music in the Heard outdoor amphitheater performed by local groups.

And Even More To Do:

Dec. 1: The DFW Toys for Tots 44-mile Motorcycle  Run kicks off in McKinney to collect toys. Line up at 8:30 a.m., leave at 10:30 a.m. Don’t ride a motorcycle? Bring $15 and a new toy to the McKinney VFW Post 2150 for lunch, and photos with Santa and Marines. Benefitting DFW Toys for Tots. 1710 N. Church. For info, call 214-563-4185.

Dec. 1:  Morning Maniacs Shine & Show Classic Car Show: 7:30-10:30 a.m. around the McKinney Performing Arts Center on the square.

Dec. 5-6: Scholastic Book Fair: Pick up books and great stocking stuffers at this annual  McKinney Community Center event; all inventory 50% off.

Dec. 14-16: Third Monday Trade Days is the oldest and largest monthly trade days/flea market in North Texas. Over 400 vendors offer almost anything you can imagine—unique gifts, delightful home décor, trendy clothing and accessories, sporting goods, antiques and collectibles, landscaping materials, tools, and small animals along with many specialty “state fair” type food concessions. Shoppers will find plenty of all-weather parking, clean restrooms, two ATMs, an air conditioned and heated Mall building, mobility cart rental, wagon and stroller rental, and a family-friendly atmosphere including a fun playground and train ride. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. all three days.

Dec. 15:  For Adriatica’s Christmas Cookie Competition & Craft Fair, bring a plate of your decorated cookies, take pictures with Santa, sip on some hot cocoa, and check out all of the wonderful crafts! Winners of the Christmas Cookie Decorating Competition will receive awesome holiday prizes! Craft Fair: 10am-5pm; Cookie Competition: 2pm-4pm; Pictures with Santa: 2pm-4pm. At the Love Life Wrapping Center, 6851 Virginia Parkway, 972.540.5955.

Saturdays at 11 a.m.: Franconia Brewery Tour with Bavarian brewmeister Dennis Wehrmann shares his knowledge and laughs. Tour fee of $5 gets you the tour and tastings. 495 McKinney Pkwy., 972-542-0705.

 

Ring in the New Year at MPAC!

The McKinney Performing Arts Center is hosting a New Year’s Eve on Dec. 31 bash featuring casino games, dancing and a champagne toast. Guests will groove to the beats of DJ Mark Brown and enjoy refreshments in the courthouse’s old vault retrofitted as a lounge area. Details and tickets are available on the MPAC website.

October in McKinney: Fall Colors & Spooky Stuff

Grab a pumpkin and have a fun October in McKinney

Once again, we feel the hint of crispness in the air as our thoughts turn to all things autumnal –pumpkins, brilliant colors of changing leaves, and things that go bump in the night!

McKinney offers all these things and more. Check out the many activities in store for visitors and residents in McKinney in the month of October.

At the Heard Museum

October 2012 gets underway with the Oct. 2 opening of the annual Dinosaurs Live! exhibit at the Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary. T-Rex and his pals will be around until February, giving you plenty of time to see and hear these animatronic creatures, made right here in Collin County, by the way. Don’t forget the camera as family pictures with the dinos make great additions to annual holiday cards. (We know this first hand, as we at the McKinney CVB took our holiday picture with the T-Rex a few years back!)

Dinos return to the Heard Oct. 2

A little later this month at the Heard:

• Halloween at the Heard(Oct. 20, 6-10 p.m.) allows kids to trick-or-treat by flashlight along the nature trails, or take a detour to the “Haunted Forest” (not recommended for younger guests). There’s a costume contest (12 and under), concessions for purchase, and this year’s outdoor movie, “The Lorax.”  Tickets go on sale to members today (Oct.1) and to the general public on Oct. 8. Note: this event sells out fast!
• The monthly 2^nd Saturday Bird Walk (Oct. 13) allows bird and nature enthusiasts to explore the abundant bird life in the sanctuary. For more about birds and nature, watch this VIDEO.

Historic District Events

McKinney Community Band Free concert

Enjoy several entertainment options taking place in and around downtown McKinney this month:

• McKinney Repertory Theatre brings Agatha Christie’s “And Then There Were None” (Oct. 5-6, 12-14) to the Courtroom Theater at the McKinney Performing Arts Center (MPAC).
• A capella sensations Pentatonix(winners of the Nov. 2011 “Sing-Off” Season 3 on NBC) perform at MPAC this month (Oct. 18), but sorry, folks – this show’s already sold out!

• The McKinney Community Band honors Serenity High during their “After Ghoul Special” concert featuring bewitching music befitting the Halloween season. The concert is free, but tickets are needed as seating will fill up quick for this special night at MPAC. Get tickets HERE.
  

  Scare on the Square

• Kids will fill the square by the thousands for Scare on the Square (Oct. 31, 4-6 p.m.) featuring trick-or-treating, a costume contest, and the McKinney Fire Department McTown Klownz(performing at 6:30 p.m. in a free show at MPAC).
• Rocky Horror Picture Show (Oct. 19, 9-11 p.m) – The adults can enjoy some kid-free Halloween fun, too, as they rock along with this cult-classic. Bring your water guns, newspapers, toast, rice and more, or buy your Rocky Horror Kit when you buy your ticket to this late night event at MPAC.
• Vocalists are submitting videos now (through Oct. 11) for the McKinney Mash-Up with online voting starting soon (Oct.12-26). Contestants will be notified Oct. 29 with the event taking place next month at MPAC.

Over at Chestnut Square Historic Village, enjoy the following family-friendly events:

• Visit the last weekly Farmers Market (Oct. 13) Saturday, 8 a.m.-noon, before monthly markets start up.
• At Legends of McKinney Ghost Walk (Oct. 20 & 27), guests will learn about McKinney’s ghostly legends on a self-guided tour through McKinney’s purported haunted locales, including this year’s addition of a haunted trolley ride to Finch Park (additional fee applies).
• The city’s Parks department is hosting an outdoor showing of “The Hunger Games” at the McKinney Community Center (Oct. 25, 6:30 p.m.). You bring the lawn chair and/or blankets while the city provides the movie and free popcorn.

Jon Christopher Davis

McKinney At-Large

Fall fun isn’t just for the historic district. Check out these Fall events elsewhere in the city:

• Wales Manor Vineyard and Winery again welcomes Jon Christopher Davis and friends to the outdoor stage for Music Under the Stars (Oct. 6).
• Pumpkinville (Oct. 17-31) features a pumpkin patch, display of farm equipment from the Collin County Farm Museum, tractor-pulled hay rides (times vary by day), pumpkin decorating, games, picnicking, a toddler-sized hay maze, and more. Free admission with pumpkin sale proceeds benefiting McKinney Christian Academy.
• Visit Storybook’s Ghost Ranch and Pumpkin Patch (thru Oct. 31) for wagon rides, petting zoo, hay maze and more.

Charitable Causes

Go to Pumpkinville at Tucker Hill & see their incredible fountain

• The 4th annual Wish 100 (Oct. 6, 8 a.m.) in which the city partners with The Make-A-Wish Foundation® of North Texas, McKinney Velo and Matrix Cycling for a 60-mile ride through McKinney and surrounding communities to raise funds to help make wishes come true for children battling life-threatening medical conditions.
• A special Sunday Brunch at Gather (Oct. 14) benefits CASA. Reservations are recommended and a photo booth will be on-site for capturing the fun with your friends.
• Walkers and runners can help multiple charities at the Stonebridge Racers’ Halloween Hustle (Oct. 28) which features 1K, 5K and 15K races.

This event list may look extensive, but our website calendar is full of many others, including Second Saturday art gallery openings, Third Monday Trade Days and Old Red Lumberyard, classes, FFA shows, garden workshops, Scouting badge days and more!  As always, check VisitMcKinney.com and the Destination McKinney Texas Facebook page for more event information.

And if you don’t have our Smartphone app yet (for iPhone, iPad or Android) by all means, go HERE now and get it! You’ll be glad you did.

August in McKinney is Alive with Arts & Music

MPAC stands in the center of McKinney’s downtown square, overlooking a bustling arts scene.

McKinney always offers a wide variety of arts and musical experiences, but August seems to be more chockful than ever! From community theater to a world-renowned rocker (hint: think Fleetwood Mac!), there is no shortage of arts and music from which to partake in McKinney this month.

On the Stage

The McKinney Repertory Theatre is keeping the stage at the McKinney Performing Arts Center busy this month with a couple shows. The first two weeks of the month feature a melodrama, “Return to Calamity Gulch” which encourages audience participation in the way of popcorn being thrown at the performers and much cheering and booing. Then later in the month (Aug. 17-19), the MRT’s Young Actors Guild takes over, bringing “Fox Tales” to the MPAC stage.

Lindsey Buckingham (Fleetwood Mac) to rock the MPAC stage in a sold-out concert Aug. 22.

Rocking the MPAC stage on August 22 is Fleetwood Mac guitarist Lindsey Buckingham. Sorry, though, folks – if you don’t already have a ticket, you’re out of luck on this one. This show sold out last month. But those lucky fans who do have tickets are in for a treat! ENJOY!

Another future show sure to sell-out is another nationally-known act: 2011 winners of NBC’s “The Sing Off,” Pentatonix, coming to the MPAC stage October 18. (Click the group’s name to order your tickets now so you won’t miss that show. And if you aren’t familiar with them, check out videos of them HERE.)

Second Saturday Packed Full of Artists

As always, McKinney’s downtown square comes alive for Second Saturday (August 11) when guests are invited to enjoy a fun filled evening of art, shopping, music, food and spirits. The local art galleries and even a few of the other businesses feature local and regional talents of artists and musicians.  Of course, a trip downtown isn’t complete without eating in at least one of McKinney’s fine eateries. (Why not see how many you can visit by enjoying pre-dinner drinks and appetizers in one location, dinner in another, then stop for dessert somewhere else! All the while, there’ll be great music to set the mood for your evening.  Also, quite a few shops in downtown McKinney will also keep their doors open for this monthly event.

Where to see art on Second Saturday:

Garret Art Gallery is featuring watercolor artist Sarah Buie (from Aug. 11 through Sept. 6). At a young age, Sarah Buie enjoyed both drawing and painting. Sarah studied art history at the University of Dallas but painting remained her passion. Her style falls somewhere between Impressionism and Realism with an endeavor to express the good and the truth through everyday objects and nature. Her primary desire is to glorify God through her art by helping people see that despite the storm there can be peace, despite the sorrow there can be joy, and despite the struggle there is hope.

Sarah works as art teacher and in-home caregiver in Grapevine. She continues to enjoy traveling and giving of her time and talents to people close to home and abroad. Stop by The Garret Art Gallery from 7-10 p.m. during Second Saturday to meet Sarah and see her art, while enjoying refreshments.

Imaging on the Square  is featuring various local artists, showcasing their many different mixes and mediums throughout the evening.  They’ll also feature up-and-coming singer Stacey Whitson during the Second Saturday event.

A sample of art in Laura Moore’s Hideout “open call to artists” juried art exhibit this month.

It’s time for Laura Moore Fine Art Studios’ annual open “call to artists” juried art exhibition, this year themed “Hideout.”  Guests can see more than 80 works of art from 45 artists in two locations through September 5 at two locations: the gallery itself at 107 S Tennessee, and hiding out in a second location at the Heard-Craig Carriage House at 205½ W. Hunt Street. There is always an eclectic mix of artists and mediums in this show, so do make a point of seeing it. You’ll be glad you did!

Orisons Fine Art & Framing Gallery  features the work of several professional photographers from the north Texas area who have been invited to show their work in a Group Photo Show.  The public is invited to the gallery to view and vote for their favorite photograph leading up to the event.  Voting patrons will be entered in a prize drawing for free print to canvas services.  Photographers winning the People’s Choice Awards will be announced during the Second Saturday reception.

And something even more special at Orisons: The gallery has acquired three extremely rare Bert Stern photos of Marilyn Monroe.   Taken six weeks prior to her death, these are from Monroe’s final photo shoot commissioned in June 1962 by Vogue Magazine.  All three were originally published in Stern’s 1982 book and are signed and numbered (each is 199/250) with certificates.  The plates used to print these were donated to a museum and will never be printed from again.  During the photo exhibit, these will be on display and for purchase.  Vote for your favorite of these as well through August 10 to be entered in a drawing for a free 16 x 20 canvas wrap.

Main Street Magic & Fun Company’s Chris Gracy performing magic at this year’s Ice Cream Crank Off.

Other businesses featuring local art include:

La Misha European Bistro where you can see the work of artists Catherine Brown and Miles while enjoying a glass of wine or a bite of light Mediterranean fare. 113 N. Kentucky, 972-540-6050; and
McKinney Wine Merchant features the art of Nick Saia. 120 W. Virginia, 972-542-4636.

Main Street Magic & Fun Company hosts their monthly Cabaret Style Magic Show at 7 p.m.  (for adults & children) and again at 9 p.m. (for adults only) in their Magic Attic Theater. Tickets are only $10 and include a complimentary glass of wine for those 21 and older.  Seating is very limited so call 214-274-7802 to reserve your tickets.

The following is the live music you can enjoy during Second Saturday.

• Cadillac Pizza Pub – Buzz Andrews Band
• Café Malaga – The Bodarks
• Grotto – Maylee Thomas Band
• Landon Winery– Tu-Tones
• Lone Star Wine Cellars – Steve Rose
• Rick’s Chophouse – Melissa Medlock
• Spoon’s Café – Duane Bates

The McKinney Convention & Visitors Bureau also lists all live music for the month on their Visit McKinney Texas Smartphone app. Click HERE to access a link to download the app for your iPhone, iPad or Android.

Support Local High School Musicians!

The McKinney Boyd Band drumline kicks off their Drum-a-thon on the downtown square.

The McKinney Boyd Bronco Band’s annual fundraiser and teambuilding event, Drum-a-Thon, features high school musicians playing marimbas, tenors, bass drums, snares, cymbals, and more as percussion playing for 18 straight hours at McKinney Boyd High School (600 N. Lake Forest Drive). The event runs takes place on Saturday, August 11 from 6 a.m. to midnight. No admission is required, but the drumline will happily take donations! In fact, any patron who donates $100 or more will be listed on this year’s drumline shirt, which not only will be worn by our percussionists, but also by friends of the band and MBHS students.  You can get a sneak-peek of the event during their kick-off on Friday, August 10, from 5:30- 6:30 p.m. on McKinney’s downtown square. Last year, the group moved around the square, playing for awhile on one corner before moving elsewhere. Just listen for the drums and enjoy! Please contact Derek Stoughton for more information regarding this event at: dstoughton@mckinneyisd.net

Visit McKinney Texas: Where to find us!

Remember “everything McKinney” is always at your fingertips with our Smartphone app. Links for downloading it to iPhone, iPad and Android can be found HERE. And if you need to check out McKinney on your computer, you can find us at our website or on Facebook and Twitter. We’re even working on growing a Pinterest page!

BOOM! It’s July in McKinney…

McKinney puts on the red, white and blue for the annual July 4th hometown parade.

July started with a BANG in McKinney… or rather with a “BOOM” as in Red White and BOOM! Thousands turned out on the downtown square for the July 4th hometown parade, the street fair and the car show, all taking place under the bright, hot sun and insanely gorgeous blue sky. Even more thousands filled the soccer complex at Craig Ranch that night for a concert by McKinney’s own Jon Christopher Davis and his band Lone Star Attitude followed by the city’s annual fireworks display.

Now as we enter the first full weekend of the month, get ready for some great music by local talent, some great art created by local artists, and even a couple stage productions of popular musicals. Then of course, there is always nature to enjoy in McKinney!

Music, Stage and Galleries in July

• McKinney Summer Musicals‘ production of “My Fair Lady” kicks of this weekend on Saturday night (July 7) and Sunday afternoon (July 8) – and finishes with four shows next weekend. (Click the show title above for tickets.) The show is at Boyd High School.
• 

  The McKinney Community Band performs a free concert at MPAC on July 14.

  The McKinney Community Band has a concert on Saturday, July 14, called “Home on the Arrangement” with music honoring McKinney and the state of Texas. Admission is free, but they need you to reserve free tickets on their website to help them track attendance. The concert is at the McKinney Performing Arts Centerin the middle of the historic downtown square. (Hint: This concert falls during the monthly Second Saturday downtown!)

• During Second Saturday, yes, some of the shops downtown are open late, but regular visitors to this monthly event know it’s really all about the arts – new art gallery exhibit openings with meet-the-artist receptions in the downtown art galleries, and live music rocking-out so many of the restaurants/wineries downtown. Click HERE for a list of participating businesses on the square.
• In addition to Second Saturday, Orisons Art & Framing will host one of its popular “Art in the Making” events on July 21, featuring the art of local artists Annie Royer, KD Hafley, and David Hobson who will be on hand creating their art as guests to downtown McKinney can watch and ask the artists about their work.
• Another performance downtown this month is by the talented youth of McKinney! The McKinney Repertory Theatre’s Broadway Bound campers bring their acting and singing gifts to the MPAC stage for four shows of “Disney’s Aladdin Jr.” on July 19-21.
• At the Heard-Craig Carriage House on Friday, July 20, enjoy a free concert “Bluegrass to Jazz” presented by the McKinney Arts & Music Guild. The concert is from 6:30-7:30 p.m.

A boy meets a butterfly at the Heard Museum butterfly house.

Nature in July:

It may be hot out, but that doesn’t stop the butterflies, birds and other nature from being available to commune with people! The Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary opened its Butterfly Gardens and House last month, an attraction that will be open until September 30. And this month, the Heard offers a Free Resident Day on July 15 (McKinney residents, bring your water bill with you for free admission)  and throughout summer, the Heard offers its summer camp programs for kids. Also, don’t forget the Animal Superheroes exhibit running throughout the summer.

DID YOU KNOW? There are motion-activated cameras posted on the grounds of the museum that catch the action of wildlife not generally seen by humans as they go about their business day and night. Click HERE to see some of these images. (Those wildlife sanctuary residents are busy as beavers – in fact, some ARE indeed beavers.)

Wet Family Fun!

The City of McKinney Parks, Recreation and Open Space Department hosts its annual Hawaiian Night on July 21 at Juanita Maxfield Aquatic Center. The event features family activities, games, food, music and plenty of cool, splashing fun from 5:30-8:30 p.m. (For a list of all the pool facilities and splash pad parts in the city, click HERE.)

Fresh juice quenches hungry shoppers at Third Monday Trade Days.

Shopping, McKinney Style!

Every month in McKinney offers unique shopping opportunities. Below are links to the usual monthly markets as well as our weekly Farmers Markets:

• Old Red Lumberyard Vintage Sale, July 13-14, 600 E. Louisiana.
• Third Monday Trade Days, July 13-15, 4550 W. University Drive.
• TreasureSpotters, July 14, 401 E. Virginia.
• Farmers Market, Saturdays 8-noon at Chestnut Square and Thursdays in Adriatica

NEW! Just opened on the square this week (July 4) is Snug on the Square, a place for shopping and eating. Check out their Facebook page HERE!

Visit McKinney Texas: Our App and Social Media!

Remember “everything McKinney” is always at your fingertips with our Smartphone app. Links for downloading it to iPhone, iPad and Android can be found HERE. And if you need to check out McKinney on your computer, you can find us at our website or on Facebook and Twitter. We’re even working on growing a Pinterest page!

Health, Music & More in May

“Health” is the word for May in McKinney. Locals and visitors will spend the month of May involved in a variety of spring activities, many of which focus on healthy living and recreation. Among the events and activities planned in McKinney this month are:

Don’t Worry – Be Healthy!

McKinney Mayor Brian Loughmiller is challenging the residents of McKinney to adopt healthier lifestyles in an effort to make McKinney the most fit community in the nation. To encourage steps toward this goal, the city is sponsoring a series of events that started with Relay for Life the last weekend in April and includes four events in May. Eligibility passports are available here and need to be stamped at four of the Healthy Challenge events to be eligible for the June 30 drawing for an iPad. The May events include:

• Get Fit McKinney (May 4, 6-8 p.m.) Join a free event hosted by the Parks, Recreation and Open Space Department at the McKinney ISD’s Ron Poe Stadium.
• Historic McKinney Kiwanis Kids Triathlon (May 5, 8 a.m., 922-697-6922)
• Historic McKinney Kiwanis Triathlon and Wellness Run Races 3.6 mile run and a 2K fun run (May 6, 7:30 a.m. at McKinney High School).
• Bike the Bricks (May 25, 4:30-11 p.m.) This high speed closed crit race features an expected 500 cyclists racing through the downtown square as they chase a purse worth more than $20,000.

Also this month, those interested in fitness may register for these other May races:

• 2^nd Annual LifeRace 5K (May 12, 8:30 a.m., cross-country run and dog walk in Myers Park)
• TOP 5K, 10K & 1-mile Fun Run Walk/Roll (May 19, 9 a.m., in Craig Ranch).
• Stonebridge Memorial Day 1K, 5K and 10K (May 28, various start times, in Stonebridge Ranch).

Another important event focusing on health and wellness is the Strikes Against Cancer Select Youth Baseball Tournament which brings 248 teams of young ball players and their families to McKinney for the weekend (May 4-6). Not only will the boys be active playing ball all weekend, the event itself is the brainchild of 12-year-old pitcher Geordon Cox as his way to help raise money to fight his mom’s uterine cancer. The website, accessible by click the organization name above, allows site visitors to make donations and buy special Strikes Against Cancer merchandise.

Cinco de Mayo

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in McKinney with a free concert and dance at Old Settler’s Recreation Center, 1201 E. Louisiana St. with music provided by Mariachi Michoacan, a theatrical presentation by Teatro Dallas called PIZCAS and other festive activities. Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Mexican army’s defeat of French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. 972-542-5014.

Arts On Stage & In the Gallery

John Fitzgerald McGill takes the Sanctuary Stage at Zin Zen Wine Bar, 6841 Virginia Parkway. (May 1, 7:30 p.m.)

The popular “Music Under the Stars” concert series continues at Wales Manor Vineyard & Winery (May 12, 7:30 p.m., but gates open at 6:15 p.m. for best seating) with country darling IMAJ (pictured right) taking the stage. Also at this event, you’ll see the Rendola Paso fino horses from Aubrey, where IMAJ has been taking riding lessons.

The McKinney Youth Theatre brings the popular musical “Hairspray” to the Heard-Craig Performance Hall, 306 N. Church St. 972-422-2575. (May 4-13, times vary). Tickets are $8-18

Over at the McKinney Performing Arts Center, U.S. Congressman Sam Johnson will announce the winner of his annual high school Congressional Art Competition & Exhibit (May 3, 7 p.m.). The Arts and Music Guild hosts a Juried Art Show in the MPAC gallery (May 11, 7 p.m.). reception with winners announced at 8 p.m., 972-547-2650). The artwork will be on exhibit for public viewing from May 14-22.

Join the North Texas Chapter of the American Theatre Organ Society (ATOS) for their Armed Forces Salute (May 19, 7 p.m.). Patriotic and popular music will be provided by ATOS Theater Organist of the Year Dave Wickerman, musician/composer/arranger Danny Wesley Ray, the Frisco Jazz Band, and other artists.

The McKinney Repertory Theatre presents White Liars & Black Comedy (May 25-26, 8 p.m., continuing in June), two one-act comedies by Peter Shaffer.

Memorial Day in McKinney

Pecan Grove Cemetery hosts their 28^th Annual Memorial Day Celebration (May 28, 9 a.m.) featuring state, county and local officials, veterans, Boy Scouts, and local musicians. Attendees can enjoy a free barbeque lunch at the conclusion of the event.

The annual Smiles Charity Concert and Family Festival this year brings Grammy-nominated county singer David Nail on the stage at Adriatica in Stonebridge Ranch (May 27, starting at 5 p.m.). This event also features music by Lantic and local favorites the Maylee Thomas Band.

Garden, Dogs and Horses

Myers Park & Event Center offers a month of wide variety of animal-related as well as garden tours and a race. Myers Park is located at 7117 CR 166.

• May 2: Collin County Master Gardeners will have a tour of the gardens, 972-548-4219.
• May 5-6: Alamo Area Whippets Club dog show, 214-616-0918
• May 5-6: The Red River Welsh Pony Association Silver Show, 469-223-2783.
• May 12: 5K Life Race, 214-673-2860.
• May 17: The Spring Horse Herd Health Clinic, 972-548-4233.
• May 19: Lone Star 4H Horse Club, 972-658-5201.

McKinney Favorites (Weekly and Monthly Events)

The Heard-Craig Center for the Arts hosts the monthly free Art History Brown Bag lunch-time discussion (12:30-1:30 p.m., May 2) featuring local artist, instructor and historian Anne Royer. This month, the focus is on Monet and Pissaro in 19th Century France.

McKinney’s Farmers Market at Chestnut Square Historic Village continues its regular weekly season on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon, and at Adriatica on Thursdays (check their website for times). Monthly at Chestnut Square, enjoy Ghostly Haunting Tours held the third Saturday; tours of the grounds and homes on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays at 11 a.m.; and trolley tours of the historic district which leave Chestnut Square every second and fourth Saturday at 11 a.m.

Monthly flea market and vintage shopping is on tap at Third Monday Trade Days (May 18-20), Old Red Lumberyard Junk Market (May 18-19), and Treasure Spotters (May 5-6 & 19). And don’t forget the annual Spring McKinney Ladies Association yard sale at Stonebridge Methodist Church (May 5).

Find your inner drummer Saturdays during the 10 a.m. African drumming circle, courtesy of Drums Not Guns,  at Old Settlers Recreation Center or during the Fourth Friday Drum Circle in Mitchell Park.

Second Saturday on the downtown square (May 12, 7-10 p.m.) features new art exhibit openings and meet-the-artist receptions. This month’s offerings and participating galleries include:

• Laura Moore Fine Art Studios welcomes Waleed Arshad’s exhibit, “Of What is Past, Passing or to Come.” 107 S. Tennessee, 214-914-3630.
• The Artist’s Loft, 110 E. Louisiana, 972-345-6311.
• Orisons Fine Art and Framing Gallery, 110 E. Louisiana St., 972-529-1441.
• Imaging on the Square - 109 S. Tennessee St. – 972-548-7575
• Dobscha Studio - 111 E. Virginia St., #200 – 972-658-5196
• The Main Street Magic & Fun Company hosts the 2nd Saturday Magic Show at 7 and 9 p.m. in the Magic Attic Theater upstairs in the shop. Tickets are $10 and include a complimentary glass of wine for those 21 and older. Children are admitted to the 7 p.m. show. Seating is very limited. 211 N Tennessee, 214-274-7802.

Also this month: National Travel & Tourism Week, starting this weekend, May 5. More to come on this event!

From the MCVB: If you learn of something else going on in McKinney this month, please let us know. As always, you can learn more about McKinney’s events by visiting VisitMcKinney.com and by downloading our free Visit McKinney Texas Smartphone app. (For links to the Apple Store and Android Market, click here.)

New Year, New Opportunities

We hope 2012 is off to a great start for you and, we want to challenge you to try something new this year. Sign up for a class to learn a new skill, attend an event you’ve never attended, or try that restaurant you’ve always wanted to try, but have never managed to step in the door.  We see the new year as a chance for new opportunities, and we plan to relish in them and take them on! Now here’s what you have to look forward to in this first month of 2012.

Learn Something New!
January is chock full of opportunities to try something new or take on new hobbies, so why not challenge yourself!

• Adults can consider Intuitive Painting (ongoing), crazy patchwork quilting (1/16) and more at The Artist’s Loft on the downtown square.
• Kids in grades 1-8 can take part in free weekly dance classes, presented by Chamberlain Performing Arts, at the Boys & Girls Club while those 7-14 can take a Discover Art class (1/6) at the McKinney Community center or a variety of “Discover” classes including art, African culture, and modeling at Old Settler’s Park Rec Center.
• Also at Old Settler’s every Saturday at 10 a.m., ages 10 and up are invited to be part of the hand drum circle where they’ll learn the art of hand drumming; drums are provided for those who don’t have them. The sponsoring organization, Drums Not Guns, also hosts a Fourth Friday Night Drum Circle in Mitchell Park (Church/Louisiana) from 7-10 p.m. each month.
• Learn how to be “green” at the Build Your Own Rain Barrel Workshop ($50 each; 1/21) offered by the city’s Office of Environmental Stewardship and AgriLife Extension office; participants will make their own rain barrel for use in collecting and using rain water.

Claim the Spotlight
Those craving the spotlight have the opportunity to audition for three stage productions this month:

•  ”Hairspray” and “Dear Edwina,” (McKinney Youth Theatre, 1/13-21); productions are later this spring.
• “Crossroads,” (McKinney Repertory Theatre, 1/13-14); production is in March.

Or pretend to be an Olympic ice skater while twirling on the ice during the Winter Blast at the Dr Pepper Star Center (1/28).

Appreciate the Arts...and Animals
Performance and visual art enthusiasts can take in an art exhibit opening, a musical or a night of comedy during this first month of 2012.

• The McKinney Youth Theatre presents the “Wizard of Oz” at the Heard-Craig Performance Hall (1/13-22).
• Second Saturday (1/14) features a new exhibit opening of Elizabeth McDonald at Laura Moore Fine Art Studios, while the Garret Art Gallery holds over their popular miniatures exhibit and sale from December. Orisons Art & Framing features the wildlife portraits of K.D. Hafley (pictured). Live musical performances are on tap at the eateries and wineries on the square and over at Hank’s Texas Grill.
• Also during Second Saturday, enjoy the sounds of two bands – “The Patient Patient” and “Taylor Thrash” during the Winter Jam, a fundraiser for New Life Church of McKinney’s College Ministries (at MPAC, 1/14).
• The Four Funny Females (pictured right) return to the Courtroom Theatre at the McKinney Performing Arts Center for the first of three early 2012 shows (1/21).
• The McKinney Community Concert Association presents the 3 Inspirational Tenors at Faubion Middle School (1/7). These are annual membership performances, but call 972-542-2960 prior to the show to see if any tickets might be available.
• And don’t forget! The dinosaurs are still stationed along the nature trails at the Heard Natural Science Museum through Jan. 29. While there, check out the Animal Superheroes indoor exhibit as well.

Here Comes the Bride
McKinney Performing Arts Center will host its second “Walk Down the Aisle of History” Bridal Show (1/21) featuring a wide variety of the vendors and venues that help make McKinney the “Wedding Capital of North Texas.”

Unique Shopping
McKinney’s monthly shopping opportunities are back, of course, with TreasureSpotters being open 1/7-8, and Third Monday Trade Days taking place 1/13-15. (Old Red Lumberyard will not have a January market.)

Go, Dog, GO!
Myers Park & Event Center starts off the year with a full calendar including a livestock show and a handful of dog agility shows. All are free for spectators and a fun way to spend a morning or afternoon with the family, especially those with kids who love animals!

• Collin County Livestock Show (1/4-7)
• Happy Hounds Dog Show (1/14-15)
• Alamo Area Whippet Dog Show (1/21-22)
• Lone Star Poodle Club Dog Show (1/21-22)
• Texas Kennel Club Dog Show (1/28-19)

For more information, visit the Myers Park calendar.

As always, you can learn more about McKinney’s events by visiting VisitMcKinney.com and by downloading our free Visit McKinney Texas Smartphone app. (For links to the Apple Store and Android Market, click HERE.)

Christmastime Is Here!

Mayor Brian Loughmiller presents the community tree!

Christmastime is indeed here and in full-swing in McKinney, Texas. The halls (street lights and windows, too) have been decked with boughs of holly, strings of lights, and all sorts of sparkly silver and gold finery, and now we get on with the action of celebrating this joyous time of year. And if you haven’t yet seen the community tree in Mitchell Park at the entrance to downtown McKinney, we suggest you go see it at night – it’s gorgeous!

While the annual Dickens of a Christmas festival officially got the season started over Thanksgiving weekend, the month of December is filled to the brim with activities for young and old alike:

38th Annual Holiday Tour of Homes: This event kicks off the month on Saturday-Sunday, Dec. 3-4, presented by Chestnut Square Historic Village and the Heritage Guild of Collin County. Proceeds from the admission and raffle ticket sales are earmarked for maintenance costs on the historic buildings and grounds in the village.

Raffle prizes include:

• An “Experience Downtown McKinney” package valued at $500 that includes a stay at the Grand Hotel, breakfast at Spoons Cafe, lunch at The Pantry, dinner at Rick’s Chophouse, a wine tasting at Landon Winery, a spa package at Spa Esoteric, tickets to the McKinney Performing Arts Center and more;
• A Santa Limited Edition Print signed by artist Brenda Brandon, valued at $400 (pictured);
• An antique Victorian table, valued at $400.

Christmas Parade of Lights: (SCHEDULE CHANGE DUE TO WEATHER!) On the evening of Saturday, Dec. 10  (6:30 p.m.), McKinney will be filled with thousands (dare we say millions?) of lights as the “Star Spangled Christmas” themed parade  rolls through the historic downtown square. Rotary Club of McKinney presents this annual event when individuals and groups ride in cars, pull floats, push strollers and pull wagons, all adorned in lights and wearing costumes. Bring the blankets, hot chocolate and your holiday spirit for a down-home great time for the whole family.

Take a carriage ride with Happy Trails Carriage Services.

Holiday Carriage Rides: All month long (Dec. 3-31), you and your family can enjoy a carriage ride through the decorated historic district with Shannon and her team of horses from Happy Trails Carriage Service. They even provide the blankets and music! Reservations are required at happycarriage@peoplepc.com or by calling 214-662-6705.

A Christmas Carol: The McKinney Repertory Theatre presents three more shows of their annual Christmas performance at the McKinney Performing Arts Center. Friday and Saturday shows are at 7:30 p.m. with a Sunday matinee at 2 p.m. Tickets are available by calling 214-544-4630 or by clicking on the link above.

Annie the Musical: The “sun will come out tomorrow” over at the Heard-Craig Performance Hall (306 N. Church) when the McKinney Youth Theatre performs one of the world’s best loved musicals  on Dec. 2-4 and again on Dec. 9-11.

“My Country, My Christmas” – Gary Morris in Concert: The McKinney Performing Arts Center presents country recording artist and Broadway star (Valjean in “Les Miserables”) Gary Morris on Dec. 9. Tickets are $35 and you can buy them at the link above. 111 N. Tennessee.

Also on Dec. 9:

Christmas Donation Drive Party: Lone Star Wine Cellars hosts a free event to wrap-up their supply drive for McKinney’s Community Lifeline Center. Entertainment by Crystal Yates and John Griffith.  103 E. Virginia,  972-547-WINE.

Inaugural Christmas Concert featuring the Texas Boys Choir at Adriatica’s Bella Donna Chapel, 401 Adriatic Parkway. Doors open at Friday, Dec. 9, at 7 p.m.; performance starts at 8 p.m. Seating is limited, so call to RSVP (817-924-1482) or buy tickets ahead of time at www.TexasBoysChoir.org for $25 each.

A Night of Christmas Jazz featuring jazz combo trumpeter Thaddeus James Ford, violinist Richmond Punch, and tenor Daman Clark, at Mgroup Studio in the historic Cotton Mill. Friday (Dec. 9) at 7:30 p.m., $12; 972-547-4416.

Breakfast With Santa – All Aboard the Polar Express!: This annual Parks, Recreation & Open Space event (Dec. 10) is by reservation only at the McKinney Community Center and fills up very quickly. Call 972-547-2690. THIS EVENT IS FULL; no more reservations being accepted.

Holiday Trail of Lights at the Heard Museum: Bundle up your family, get out of the house, and experience the most unique holiday lighting display in North Texas (Dec. 17-19)! Tickets are available by clicking on the link above or by calling 972-562-5566. From 6:30-9 p.m. all three evenings.

Santa Photos: Entertainment Photos offers photos with Santa. For schedule and reservations, the link. Through Dec. 23, and by appointment only.

For unique holiday shopping in McKinney, check out these options:

• Candlelight Shopping in historic downtown McKinney shops displaying a candle in their window, Saturday nights in McKinney until Christmas. Participating businesses will extend their hours to 8 p.m. (and in some cases, later) to accommodate shoppers.
• Just Between Friends Holiday Toy Sale, at the McKinney Performing Arts Center, 111 N. Tennessee (Dec. 3-4)
• McKinney High School Holiday Bazaar benefitting the MHS softball program, 1400 Wilson Creek Parkway (Dec. 3)
• Scholastic Book Fair at the McKinney Community Center, 2001 S. Central Expressway (Dec. 7-8). All books are 50% off the usual ticket price.
• Old Red Lumberyard Antique & Vintage Sale, 600 E. Louisiana (Dec. 16-17). Call 972-542-8774 or check out their Facebook page at the link above.
• Chestnut Square Farmers Market & Holiday Bazaar, 315 S. Chestnut (Bazaar is at the Bevel House on Dec. 3-4 during the Holiday Tour of Homes; Farmers Market is on Dec. 17)
• Third Monday Trade Days, 7550 W. University/Hwy. 380, 2 miles west of Central Expwy. (Dec. 16-18)
• The Artist’s Loft, 110 E. Louisiana, is hosting a Holiday Gift Spree of local artisans’ work. (Dec. 16-18, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.)
• Garret Art Gallery is hosting their annual Miniature & Small Works show featuring all sorts of smaller artwork that is perfect for gift giving! (through Dec. 31)

Some holiday classes are also scheduled this month where you can learn some new gift-making or culinary skills:

• The Artist’s Loft in downtown McKinney is holding a holiday gift box making class on Friday, Dec. 9, among several other classes that same week, all of which could lead to great handmade Christmas gifts! Email debra@debralinker.com or call 972-345-6311 for more information.
• Sweet Art Bakery in the historic Flour Mill is holding a holiday cake decorating class on Dec. 13. Learn to cover a cake in fondant and decorate it to look like a holiday package. To register, call 469-563-9471.

If you learn of something else going on in McKinney for the holidays, please let us know. As always, you can learn more about McKinney’s events by visiting VisitMcKinney.com and by downloading our free Visit McKinney Texas Smartphone app. (For links to the Apple Store and Android Market, click HERE.)