The Farmers Branch Historical Preservation & Restoration Board heard updates on programming and facilities, with members reporting strong public turnout and laying out plans for upcoming holiday events.
Board members said the Haunts & Houses program drew “over 700 attendees,” and volunteers, the library and city public safety staff supported the event. “We had over 700 attendees,” Unidentified Speaker 3 said, thanking volunteers and partner agencies for their help.
Speaker 3 also reported the event center construction has reached a key milestone. “The building is now officially dried in,” Speaker 3 said, and at least one reservation has been made, with staff promoting the venue online as “Venue 1842.” The speaker said Lynette Hill, the event-center manager, has been handling reservations and outreach.
The board was briefed on the Day of the Dead celebration, scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 2, from 6 to 9 p.m. Speaker 3 said bilingual flyers and volunteer sign-ups are in circulation and described educational materials that explain the holiday’s traditions. The celebration will include face painting, altars, Mariachi and folklorico performances, kids’ crafts and food.
Because construction on Denton Drive will affect the usual tree-lighting site, Speaker 3 said the city is relocating the tree-lighting event to the Historical Park for the season. The board was told the evening will feature stage entertainment, a children’s zone, Santa photos and a fireworks display; exhibit tours of the park’s historic structures will be open during the event.
Board members encouraged volunteers to help with exhibit tours and staffing. They also discussed promotions: Councilman Roman filmed an event video that Speaker 3 said will be posted to the city’s Facebook page and website to expand outreach.
The board set planning steps for later holiday programming, noting some events (for example, the Christmas teas) were already sold out. The next board meeting was scheduled for Nov. 16 at 6 p.m., and the meeting was adjourned at 7:08 p.m.