Grapevine’s biggest weekend is back. The 42nd Annual Main Street Fest, presented by Bank of the West, takes over Historic Main Street May 15-17 with three days of live music, carnival rides, craft brews, family fun, artisan vendors and a few extra-special celebrations honoring Grapevine Mayor William D. Tate’s 50 years of leadership.
From can’t-miss concerts to kid-friendly entertainment, here are 10 things to put on your festival itinerary.
1. Catch The Main Stage Headliners
Main Street Fest brings big energy to the Main Stage all weekend long. On Friday night, Disco Queens open for Limelight, an Emerald City production, at 7 p.m., followed by Limelight at 9:30 p.m. Saturday night goes country, with King George opening for Jack Ingram at 7 p.m. before Jack takes the stage at 9:30 p.m.
2. Celebrate Mayor Tate’s Golden Jubilee
This year’s festival includes several special moments honoring Grapevine Mayor William D. Tate’s 50 years of leadership. Stop by the Heritage to World Class: Mayor Tate’s 50 Year Legacy exhibit at the Tower Gallery on Saturday and Sunday, attend the mayoral statue unveiling ceremony Saturday at 11 a.m. or join the Golden Jubilee Community Picnic on Sunday from noon to 1:30 p.m.
3. Hop Aboard The Golden Jubilee Express
All aboard for a festival favorite. The Golden Jubilee Express trains depart Friday and Saturday at 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., giving guests a festive way to enjoy one of Grapevine’s most beloved traditions.
4. Explore The Craft Brew Experience
Beer lovers can head to the Craft Brew Experience, sponsored by Gaylord Texan Resort, which runs throughout the festival. For something extra special, check out the VIP craft brew keg taps, including Hop & Sting’s Sir William English-Style Brown Ale on Saturday at 2 p.m., Denton County Brewing Companies’ Barrel Aged Doppelbock on Saturday at 4:30 p.m. and Peticolas Brewing Company’s Melee in the USA on Sunday at 2 p.m.
5. Let The Kids Loose In KidZone
Families can make KidZone their home base, with activities running from 11 a.m. to dusk Friday and Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday. Kids can catch magic shows throughout the weekend, enjoy family-friendly entertainment and burn off plenty of festival energy.
6. Ride The Carnival & Midway
The Carnival & Midway will be open all weekend with rides and classic festival fun. Friday night is a great time to go big, with $30 unlimited carnival ride wristbands available from 5-11 p.m.
7. Watch The High-Wire Performances
For a little festival thrill, keep an eye out for the high-wire performances. The first one takes place Saturday at 11:30 a.m. following the mayoral statue unveiling, with additional performances Saturday at 3:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. and Sunday at 11:30 a.m., 2:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.
8. Shop Food & Artisan Vendors
Come hungry and ready to browse. Food and artisan vendors will line the festival all weekend, offering plenty to snack on, sip and shop between concerts, rides and shows. Historic Main Street’s boutiques, cafés, winery tasting room and art galleries will also be open throughout the festival.
9. Stop By The House Of Shine Young Entrepreneurs Market
On Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., the House of Shine Young Entrepreneurs Market will take over Texas Street. It’s a great chance to support young makers, creators and future business owners while picking up something unique.
10. Take Advantage Of Free Admission Windows
A little planning can make the weekend even better. Admission is complimentary Friday until 5 p.m. and Sunday until 1:30 p.m. After that, tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for children ages 6-12 and seniors 62 and older, or $20 for the weekend.
Main Street Fest runs Friday, May 15, from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Saturday, May 16, from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.; and Sunday, May 17, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Guests can ride Trinity Metro TEXRail or use free parking at Grapevine Mills and the Grapevine Convention Center, with free shuttle service available to the festival.