Daddy Daughter Valentine Dance, Trout Derby, Krewe of Barkus Mardi Gras Dog Parade, and Easter Egg-Stravaganza

The town of McKinney, Texas is located about 30 miles north of Dallas and has been one of the fastest growing communities in Collin County for the past several years. The city leaders continually strive to provide ideas for family oriented activities that are safe and fun.

The following family friendly events will take place in the early winter and spring months of 2010.

Daddy Daughter Valentine Dance
What little girl doesn't dream of growing up to be a princess? A Daddy-Daughter dance is the perfect way for a father to bond with his little girl and show her she is his little princess. This year's Valentine ball will take place at the McKinney Community Center on February 12th. The fun kicks off at 6:30 PM and ends at 9:00 PM. Registration for the event is limited to the first 125 couples, so don't delay! Go to www.mckinneytexas.org for more details.

Towne Lake Trout Derby
On Saturday February 6th, grab your fishing pole and bait and join in the festivities taking place at the Trout Derby being held at Towne Lake in the East pavilion. Towne Lake is located at 1405 Wilson Creek Pkwy in McKinney. The lake will be stocked with over 4,000 trout. Prizes will be given for the longest cast, heaviest stringer, and biggest and smallest fish. Admission is free for kids 16 and under, adults 17 and over cost $3. Adults must have a fresh water fishing license. Call 972-547-2686 for more information.

Krewe of Barkus Mardi Gras Dog Parade
The 8th Annual Krewe of Barkus Mardi Gras Dog Parade will be held in Historic downtown McKinney at Glen Mitchell Park on Sunday February 14th. The event is patterned after the Mystic Krewe of Barkus Mardi Gras parade that was started in New Orleans to help abused and abandoned dogs. Come to this lively festival and watch the parade, eat some food, take part in canine training demonstrations, listen to live music, and enjoy the celebration. The fun starts at 12:30 pm. The parade isn't limited to just dogs and owners, but children can also participate by riding in decorated wagon floats or bicycles. Prizes will be awarded for best doggie / owner costume. The theme for this year is "Fairy Tales and Love Stories" and participants are encouraged to come dressed in the "Valentine's Best". Registration is $5 per dog and all participants must be pre-registered and pre-paid by Wednesday, February 10, 2010. Call 972-529-6872 for more information.

Easter Egg-Stravaganza
Bring the kids to Al Ruschhaupt Soccer Complex for a free Easter celebration on Saturday April 3rd. The soccer complex is located at 1985 Park View Avenue in McKinney. Event starts at 11am and includes games, arts & crafts, prizes, and of course the largest Easter egg hunt in McKinney! Call 972-547-2686 for more information.

So don't fight the traffic in Dallas or Fort Worth. Just head north to McKinney, Texas and let your entire family enjoy these kid friendly fun activities.

Sources: Wikipedia, www.mckinneytexas.org