-
DSRA Power Boats
DSRA Power Boats
The city of Orange officially came into existence in 1836, but its history, like that of the Lone Star State, goes back many years prior to that memorable date. Also known as the “Gateway City,” the lumber industry helped start the boom and the city has never looked back. Orange continues to grow each day while hanging on to its signature small-town charm and world-class culture along with countless, year-round entertainment options.
Gumdrop Shop Market at Stark Park
Collaborating with surrounding entities to create a “Downtown Christmas,” Saturday, Dec. 2, will include a full day of events. From 7:30-10:30 a.m., the Kiwanis Club of Orange is set to host “Breakfast with Santa” at Spanky’s Bar & Grill (1703 N 16th St.).
Similar to the popular “Art in the Park,” a plethora of vendors will be set up at Stark Park (201 7th St.) during the second annual Gumdrop Shop Market, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Plenty of food as well as a “kiddie zone” will be offered to enjoy.
“It’s very festive,” said Brandy Judice, Orange CVB coordinator. “The market features unique items that aren’t available in retail stores, which makes for perfect Christmas presents.”
Patrons are also encouraged to view the Stark Museum of Art (712 Green Ave.), open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., as well as The W.H. Stark House (610 Main Ave.), which will provide “A Stark Family Christmas Tour” from 12-5 p.m. Buddy the Elf, from 1-3 p.m., will make a special appearance at the Heritage House Museum of Orange County (905 W Division St.).
Later that evening, the 74th annual Kiwanis Christmas Parade begins at 6 p.m. This year’s theme is “Toys That Made Us.”
After the parade, the community is invited to return to Stark Park for the lighting of the Christmas Tree along with photo opportunities with Santa Claus.
“With the collaborations, this is an all-day Christmas-driven event with different venues participating,” said Judice. “Downtown Orange, including old City Hall near Green Avenue and Lamar State College Orange, will debut their Christmas lights for the season.”
Mardi Gras on the Sabine
The good times will be rolling Feb. 2-3, 2024, at the 20th annual Mardi Gras on the Sabine at Riverside Pavilion (809 Simmons Drive).
Chris Ardoin and the NuStep Krewe will provide the Zydeco sounds (7-9 p.m.) on Friday, Feb. 2. Gates will open at 5 p.m. and feature on-site food trucks.
In conjunction with Orange Chamber of Commerce, gates will open at the Pavilion at 10 a.m. on Feb. 3, and include a kids’ zone, food trucks, Mardi Gras floats. The Munchkin Parade is scheduled for 1 p.m. followed by the Orange Chamber’s Chamber Krewe of Krewes Parade at 6 p.m.
Spring Break Shootout
Jet skis from Nauti Water Racing will be racing up and down the Sabine River at the second annual Spring Break Shootout at the City of Orange Boat Ramp (408 Pier Road) on March 15-16, 2024.
Gates open at 10 a.m. on both dates with plenty of activities for kids as well as food truck options.
“Though we had bad weather last year, the racers brought out thousands of people,” said Judice. “They have a large organization that comes in and uses all of our resources by spending their money at our hotels and restaurants, which is a major plus for us.”
Art in the Park & Car Show
Save the date for the 22nd annual Art in the Park and Car Show on Saturday, April 6, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Stark Park (201 7th St.). More than 100 market vendors will be onsite along with activities for the kids, food and live music.
“This is a very popular event,” said Judice. “The community can enjoy the atmosphere, shop and everything is in walking distance. There is literally something for everyone.”
Rock the River
The City of Orange Boat Ramp and Riverside Pavilion will be the hub of the annual Rock the River DSRA Power Boat Races on Friday, May 3, through Sunday, May 5, 2024.
Gates open at 10 a.m. on both days with racing on the river, kiddie zone, food trucks, plus live music from multiple bands, including Saturday headliners – The Velcro Pygmies at 6:30 p.m.
Fourth of July
Celebrate our nation’s independence Thursday, July 4, at the annual Fourth of July Concert and Fireworks Show at the Riverside Pavilion from 4-9 p.m. Food, activities, live music followed by massive fireworks display at 9 p.m.
“It takes everyone to make a town great,” said Judice. “With all the beautification projects and the family-friendly events we have, it really makes everything nicer and more enjoyable. Orange keeps growing and continues to get better and better.”