Travel

Plano Balloon Festival

leheria on September 13th, 2009

The Balloon Festival is one of the biggest events in Plano, bringing together approximately 100,000 people each year both local and from different parts of the country. This festival is held over 3 days (Friday, Saturday and Sunday) every September. This event provides a kaleidoscope of different colors and shapes of hot air balloons with a back drop of beautiful blue skies. It is a delightful visual feast. There is plenty to do in this festival during the three full day programs. There are  food stalls involving around 40 vendors providing variety of food items. There is live entertainment provided by various bands and there are activities for kids also in a special Kids Corner . Of course the main attraction are the hot air balloons. You can view the preparation and lift off balloons of different colors and shapes. The night provides other opportunities, the Balloon Glow event and the fireworks. All in all the festival with all its variety is a great experience for all ages and a must see!

Pedernales Falls

leheria on August 25th, 2009

Pedernales falls state park is located in Blanco County (Texas),  10 miles east of Johnson City and 30 miles north west of Austin, 75 miles from San Antonio, 230 miles from Dallas and 230 miles from Houston. The closest city to Pedernales Falls state park is Johnson City. The park is on Pedernales river and covers an area of 5221 acres. This was actually a private property known as Circle Bar Ranch and was purcased by State of Texas in 1970. This park opened to public in 1973.

This park offers great diversity to the visitors. The visitors can indulge in activities like swimming, wading, tubing and fishing. There are a number of picnic areas and campsites within the park. There are also numerous hiking, biking and equestrian trails. The main areas of attraction are the falls area, the beach and the Bird Blind.

Our trip to Pedernales Falls state park was planned for  the Memorial Day weekend in 2009. We decided to base ourselves at Marble Falls. around 34 miles north of Pedernales Falls State Park.