The Ennis Bluebonnet Festival has easily become one of my favorite festivals in Texas. This local festival is homey, beautiful, and the perfect way to celebrate our wildflower! Bluebonnets typically peak around the 3rd week of April.
About the Ennis Bluebonnet Festival
Every spring, the small town of Ennis comes alive with a spectacular celebration of Texas’s state flower, the bluebonnet. This beloved event, perfectly timed to coincide with peak bloom season, transforms the area into a sea of vibrant blue. Tens of thousands of visitors flock to this charming community to experience the annual Bluebonnet Festival, a cherished tradition that highlights the region’s natural beauty.
At the heart of it all is downtown Ennis, where you can pick up detailed maps showcasing the best trails to find these wonderful wildflowers. With three unique routes to explore, each offering its own breathtaking views, the festival truly captures the magic of springtime in Texas. Officially designated as the “Official Bluebonnet City of Texas,” Ennis showcases some of the most picturesque landscapes in the state, making it the perfect destination for an unforgettable day surrounded by nature’s finest.
Festival Shops
There were so many lovely handcrafted items, boutiques, and more that were fun to browse through while walking. The variety of local shopping vendors offering unique items adds to the charm of the festival.
One of the cool things I discovered was a Texas-owned business selling alcohol-infused chocolates. So many good flavors! Additionally, bluebonnet souvenirs are available for sale during the festival, making it easy to take home a memorable keepsake.
There were also food stands filled with everything from your typical festival food (street corn, turkey legs, and funnel cakes) to more unique items like brisket mac and cheese and Cajun food!
Festival Schedule and Entertainment
The Ennis Bluebonnet Trails Festival takes place from April 1-30, with a variety of events and activities scheduled throughout the month. The live music schedule includes performances by local bands. Visitors can enjoy live music, food, and shopping vendors in downtown Ennis, as well as explore the beautiful Bluebonnet Trails.
The festival also features a wine and beer wander, as well as a kids’ fun area, making it a great event for the whole family. Be sure to check the festival schedule for specific dates and times for events like the Wildflower Walks at Kachina Prairie.
Exploring the Bluebonnet Trails
The Ennis Bluebonnet Trails are a 40-mile trail that runs throughout the month of April, offering visitors a chance to see the beautiful bluebonnets in bloom. The different trails are well-marked and easy to navigate, making them accessible to visitors of all ages. The Ennis Welcome Center provides free maps of the trails and information about the festival, as well as updates on the latest bloom status.
Visitors can also download the Ennis Y’all mobile app to find the best route to the most picturesque spots on the day of their visit. Some popular stops along the bluebonnet trails include the Ennis Veterans Memorial Park, Bluebonnet Park, and Meadow View Nature Area.
Wine Wander at the Ennis Blue Bonnet Festival
The wine wander is one of my favorite events because every year that I go, I find new wines and wineries that I love. They have new wineries each year offering incredible deals. For the price of the wine wander, you get tickets to try the different wines while visiting the different booths, and you get to keep their cute wine glass.
The Ennis Garden Club provides updates on the latest status of the bluebonnets.
This year an unexpected favorite for me was the chocolate retreat wine which I put on top of a bowl of ice cream. Yumm!
For the Kids
Oh, to be a kid again! Can they make these activities for adults? There were plenty of activities to keep the kiddos amused!
Live Music
Make sure you stay for the live music because it is a hoot! This year’s festival brought in Le Freak, and people of all ages were dancing to classics and partying away! The festival also featured performances by Fleetwood Journey and a tribute to Taylor Swift. You can bring chairs to relax or stand up front.
Either way, Ennis is good at finding a band that will be enjoyable for everyone!
Where to Stay
If you’re looking to add to your experience or want to stay overnight, consider booking a stay at the adorable Hoefer House! It is a beautifully restored home in the historic district that is just filled with character! Small towns like Ennis offer a unique charm and atmosphere that enhance the overall experience for visitors.
Fittingly, I checked into the bluebonnet room. It was just a short walk away from the festival and downtown square. One thing I loved about the house was the vintage mixed with modern. The rooms were large, chic, and gorgeous. Ennis is also an easily accessible destination for Dallas residents, making it a perfect day-trip option to enjoy the vibrant bluebonnet bloom during the festival.
Bluebonnets Festival: FAQs
Can I bring my dog to the bluebonnet festival?
Yes, well-behaved dogs on leashes are welcome. You might even consider entering your dog in the Pet Parade!
When do the bluebonnets peak?
Bluebonnets typically peak during the second to third week of April, though this can vary depending on weather conditions and terrain. Be sure to check local updates closer to your visit for the best viewing days!
Explore Ennis
Checkout our list of blogs below that showcases the beauty of Ennis Texas
- Things to Do in Ennis TX this Weekend
- Check out the Ennis Polka Festival
- Hoefer House in Ennis Texas
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Ennis Bluebonnets Festival: Final Thoughts
Visiting the Ennis Bluebonnet Festival was such a wonderful experience. I loved walking through the vibrant fields of flowers, meeting friendly faces, and discovering all the little treasures the festival had to offer. It was a perfect mix of nature, community, and fun, and I left feeling so refreshed and inspired.
If you’ve never been, I can’t recommend it enough. It’s truly a sight to see, and there’s something special about being surrounded by those gorgeous blooms. If you’ve been before, I’d love to hear about your favorite part! Or better yet, plan your visit and experience the beauty for yourself. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
Last Updated 3 weeks ago by Jessica Serna | Published: May 17, 2019
