About Dallas
Dallas, Texas is a major city in the Southern United States and part of the larger Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. The city's history dates back to 1841 when it was established by John Neely Bryan along the Trinity River. The location in the South has had a significant influence on culture and tradition within Dallas. It is home to numerous historical sites that showcase its rich past including Dealey Plaza where President John F Kennedy was assassinated in 1963.
In addition to its convenience and attractions, Dallas is also known for its strong Southern roots. The city has long been a favorite destination for those seeking to experience some authentic Southern culture; it was even nicknamed the “Big D” by locals in the 1950s because of its devotion to traditions such as country music and barbecue.
Dallas is a wonderful event host, given that the city celebrates local heritage; from rodeos to crawfish boils, from chili cookoffs to gospel choir concerts, the possibilities are endless! With its dynamic mix of cultures, the city is an exciting place for visitors to enjoy Southern hospitality at its finest.
Southern Event Options in Dallas
- Catering
Catering companies in Dallas specialize in delivering diverse cuisines for various occasions, including delicious fare for Southern-themed occasions. From succulent barbeque to delectable seafood straight from the Gulf, the city’s caterers ensure that all tastes are satisfied. Some specialize in preparing traditional Southern dishes like shrimp and grits, collard greens, fried chicken, and biscuits.
- Decorations
There is no shortage of decorations available when it comes to decorating a Southern-themed occasion. Everything from country-style signs and Mason jars to wildflowers in burlap accents can be used to give the space the perfect rustic feel. For modern touches, metallic accents and geometric patterns are good choices.
- Music
Depending on the type of event you’re hosting, consider booking a local band or DJ who is versed in music styles like blues, bluegrass, or even gospel choir songs. If your budget allows, having a live band perform at your event will surely make it one that’s unforgettable! Alternatively, look into renting sound systems and speakers and come up with a custom playlist.
Southern Event Vendors in Dallas
- Low Country Quisine
Low Country Quisine is renowned for its commitment to creating delicious food and crafting delightful occasions. Developed by Chef Jolie, who as a young girl would spend her summers in Charleston, South Carolina with her grandparents, their dishes combine traditional cooking techniques passed down to Jolie from her family with modern-day sensibilities. For over ten years Low Country Quisine has been helping brides, socialites, and corporate professionals plan events that produce an unforgettable experience through exceptional food and design.
- The Southern Table
Maxine Johnston, the owner of Southern Table, is a Texas native who got her start in the retail world of visual merchandising. Maxine came up with an eye for fashion and interiors after working at Barneys New York, Crate & Barrel, and Anthropologie. She moved into the floral and wedding business in Dallas to continue to develop her creativity under a distinctive perspective.
- The Silvertones
The Silvertones, founded by Brian Wicker and Kyle Copeland in the early ‘90s, is an established blues band based in Dallas and Fort Worth. Each member of the group brings their own style and soul to the performance table which has made them renowned for their great live shows. Taking influence from swing, jazz, rockabilly, and rock & roll, The Silvertones have a diverse repertoire that captures the attention of any audience.
Pros and Cons of Southern Locations in Dallas
Dallas is a major city in the United States with an array of Southern locations available for diverse events. From historical sites to modern venues, several options serve as the perfect setting for Southern-themed occasions. Here is a look at the pros and cons of booking Southern locations in Dallas.
Advantages
- Dallas offers easy access from many regions of the US due to its central location and convenient transportation network, making it an ideal destination for diverse types of events.
- There are a variety of Southern locations in the city that can accommodate different types of events, including traditional sites such as churches, and courthouses, as well as more contemporary venues like conference centers, hotels, and convention halls.
- The mild climate in Dallas makes it ideal for outdoor activities throughout the year, giving event planners plenty of options when choosing between indoor or outdoor venues.
Disadvantages
- Depending on the specific function, there may be cultural barriers that must be taken into account when planning a Southern-themed event.
- The size constraints associated with some historic venues may limit their ability to accommodate large groups.
- Most old structures were not built with wheelchair accessibility considerations included, meaning they might not be suitable for those needing special accommodations.
Tips on How to Organize Southern Locations in Dallas
When organizing a Southern-style occasion in the Dallas area, there are several steps you can take to ensure the occasion is a success. Here are some tips on how to prepare for your event:
- Consider local cuisine: Serving classic Southern dishes such as fried chicken or gumbo will help set the tone of the occasion and give guests a unique experience. If you’re not familiar with Southern cooking or don’t have adequate resources to prepare meals yourself, work with a caterer who specializes in the particular cuisine.
- Work with local entertainers: Hiring local musicians or performers adds an exciting element to your event and allows you to show off the city’s culture. Plus, it's always fun to have live music at events! If your budget allows it, contract the services of talented singers, bands, dancers, or comedians from the area.
- Decorations: Decking out the space appropriately helps establish an atmosphere of warmth and cheer. Think along the lines of bright colors and fun textures that evoke feelings of comfort and hospitality. Use items like mason jars with colorful flowers inside them or tiered trays with small snacks arranged neatly on top. They add depth and character without detracting from the overall purpose of the event.
- Creative signage: Direct guests through the space using creative signage, it also adds personality and charm to the occasion. Whether you choose to hang signs from walls or place them on tables throughout the room, be sure that all signs are legible so people do not get lost during their visit.
- Schedule traditional games & activities: Activities like corn hole toss, horseshoes, board games, scavenger hunts and more can keep guests entertained throughout your event. These activities also serve as great icebreakers for strangers who may not know each other yet, which can be especially helpful if yours is a larger gathering!
- Handle transport logistics: If there will be guests traveling long distances for your event or arriving late at night after business hours have ended, it is best to provide transportation options so they can easily get back home safely afterward. Arrange shuttles ahead of time or call a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft if need be; this way you won't have any last-minute worries!
Famous Locations in Dallas
- The Cotton Bowl Stadium
The Cotton Bowl Stadium has been around for nearly a century. First built in 1930, this iconic structure has enriched the city of Dallas with its great history and significance. It has gone through various renovations over the years, making it one of the biggest stadiums in the US, with seating able to hold over 90,000 enthusiastic fans! Every year since 1937, the stadium has hosted the annual Cotton Bowl Classic college football game between Texas and Oklahoma University, a long-standing tradition that is regularly attended by thousands of fans.
- Terrell
If you're ever in Terrell, which is only a 40-minute drive from Dallas, be sure to explore the town and all it has to offer. The town began in the 1870s and was named after pioneering settler Robert A. Terrell. Not only does it offer a unique look at the region's history, but it also contains a number of Victorian and Revival-era structures that will make for some great photos on your Instagram feed. The Terrell Heritage Museum is a great place to learn about the area through its art collections.
- Fair Park
Fair Park is a city-owned facility and is managed by a non-profit organization, Fair Park First. This State and National Historic Landmark has the greatest number of Art Deco exhibition-style buildings in the United States, with more than 250 acres of beautiful grounds. Every year, over 3 million visitors come to Fair Park to attend its various events (such as concerts, and sports games), shows, and the world-famous State Fair of Texas. The State Fair of Texas is a 24-day extravaganza in September and October that features livestock shows, classic Midway games, and BBQs.