There are many reasons to love living in the Dallas area–among them are those cherished times when—without planning on it–you happen upon a community, business, or event that turns an average day into something special. This happens quite a bit when visiting Garland. Next time you are looking for something different to do, head to Garland. It’s cool, original, charming, and full of colorful stories.
Garland has long been a place to visit to browse mom-and-pop shops, experience rich culture, enjoy unique experiences, and taste just about every flavor imaginable. Craving ethnic food? This is where you’ll find it, as Garland is, unarguably, among the most diverse places to live in the Dallas area. In fact, Garland ISD is home to students who speak more than 100 languages. A rich mixture of people has made their homes in Garland and established businesses here by opening family restaurants that serve delicious, flavorful dishes that tell a story about their cultures.
“The uniqueness of Garland is born out of our rich mixture of cultures and city leadership that fosters entrepreneurialism and creativity,” says the director of VisitGarland, Dana Lodge. “Celebrating diversity is not just talk for Garland; it’s a way of life. We have an open-arms, come-as-you-are attitude, and something more than just cookie-cutter chain restaurants, retailers, or subdivisions. If you want to surround yourself with relaxed, unpretentious charm, Garland is good for families. And good for the soul.”
So, what is there to do this summer in Garland? We’re glad you asked. Garland is always a must for interesting shopping destinations—Jimmy Wallace Guitars, Alston’s Antiques, the famed Resistol Hat Outlet Store, and Cali Saigon Mall, just to name a few spots. And don’t miss all the food and drink, including a brewery, in downtown Garland. But there is so much more to add to your calendar. A few upcoming events:
Asian-Pacific American Heritage Festival.
Head to Garland for live music, dance, food vendors, and more from 3 to 10 p.m. Saturday, May 20, at Winters Park Amphitheater. Celebrate the talent, creativity, and cultural diversity of Asian-Pacific American communities at Garland’s inaugural Asian-Pacific American Heritage Festival. Cultural performances will celebrate the traditions of Thailand, Laos, China, Indonesia, Vietnam, Cambodia, the Philippines, Singapore, Myanmar, India, Japan, Korea, and Hawaii. In addition to a Colorful World Nation Parade and lion dance, craft stalls and art performances will display the skillful hands of Asian Pacific Americans. Learn more here.
Pho Real Trail.
Thinking of pho? Think Garland. Garland’s Vietnamese community, which is the 14th-largest in the U.S., has created a mecca for delicious Vietnamese food in Garland with some of the best pho in the region. From cash-only strip mall stands to traditional restaurants, these family-owned restaurants serve fresh, savory pho and specialties, all with a friendly welcome. Pho Real Trail recently earned a Destination Excellence Award from the Texas Association of Convention and Visitor Bureaus and has been spotlighted by local influencers and media. Plan your stops along the trail at https://www.visitgarlandtx.com/p/restaurants/garland-pho-real-trail.
2023 DFW Asian-American Soccer Tournament.
Experience diversity, culture, and the love of soccer with this tournament bringing 36 teams from 14 states and Canada to Garland to compete this year. The opening ceremony includes a special presentation by Hoa Dao – Lion & Dragon Dance! The tournament is held July 8-9 in Winters Park in Garland. Get details at https://www.visitgarlandtx.com/events/2023/dfw-asian-american-soccer-tournament.
Sounds of Summer.
The City of Garland presents Sounds of Summer, evenings of live music featuring touring, on-the-rise artists and lively entertainers. Visitors can also grab a bite from on-site food vendors and let the kids run and play in the activity area. The concert series takes place at Winters Park on May 5 and 19, and June 2. Concerts on June 16 and 30 will be at Audubon Park. The music begins at 7 p.m. Free parking and plenty of shade, food trucks, and activities are available. Check out the lineup at https://www.visitgarlandtx.com/events/2023/soundsofsummer2023.
Juneteenth Celebration.
The City of Garland is proud to host its annual Juneteenth event from 5 to 8 p.m. Saturday, June 17, at Audubon Park. Bring the family to commemorate the emancipation of enslaved people by celebrating freedom and unification through dance, speakers, and live music. Take part in food trucks, a children’s activity area, and a designated space to reflect on the day’s historical significance. Check out the day’s agenda at https://www.visitgarlandtx.com/juneteenth.
Come Hungry.
No matter what activity you choose in Garland—or even if you just go for the food—you’ll want to plan and map it out, because there are so many choices. And save plenty of room, from appetizers through dessert. Garland’s diverse food scene serves delicious, flavorful dishes that tell a multicultural story at each location. Feeling adventurous? Here are some Garland favorites to check out when you’re here.
· Colombian: Mi Pueblito Colombiano
· Filipino: Taste of Philippines
· Indian: Indian Garden
· Mediterranean/Tex Mex: Ferah Tex-Med Kitchen
· Nigerian: Salt N Pepper Kitchen & Catering
· Pakistani: BBQ King
· Salvadoran: Pupuseria Lilian
· Vietnamese sandwiches: Quoc Bao Bakery
· Vietnamese: 286 Noodle House
To learn more about all things Garland—the destination for all things bold, charming, and original, go to https://www.visitgarlandtx.com/ and plan your next visit, whether for a day or a weekend.
