Grand Prairie's event planning team is gearing up for a busy year ahead, building on the successes of recent festivals like Taco Fest and the upcoming barbecue event. During a recent council meeting, officials highlighted the importance of continuous improvement and community engagement in their event strategy.

The team, led by Zane, has been conducting biweekly meetings to debrief after events, ensuring that feedback is incorporated into future planning. "We take everything, we take the venue, the music, the setup, and we roll that forward into next year," Zane noted, emphasizing the iterative nature of their approach.

A key focus for the upcoming events is enhancing family-friendly activities. Council members suggested incorporating more attractions for children, such as performances by local school groups and interactive zones. In response, the team announced plans for a dedicated kids' area at next year's TCR Fest, which will include arts and crafts, a first for the event.

The council also discussed vendor participation, with a commitment to include local businesses alongside larger brands. "We are certainly open to local businesses," Zane confirmed, highlighting the importance of reflecting the community's character in their events.

To boost local attendance, the team is ramping up marketing efforts, including targeted advertising and grassroots outreach. "We’re trying to create a little more creative and get a little more grassroots so that we can make everyone aware of the events," Zane stated.

As Grand Prairie continues to grow, the focus remains on creating inclusive and engaging events that resonate with both residents and visitors, ensuring that the city’s vibrant culture is showcased and celebrated.