I don’t know about you, but I practically grew up at the movies. For me, that meant the IRIS Theatre right here in Historic Downtown Terrell.

I went on dates there with my now-husband, saw classics like Jaws, Grease, and Footloose, and even introduced my own kids to cinematic magic with Disney films like Beauty and the Beast and The Little Mermaid. The IRIS holds so many of my favorite memories, and it’s a big part of why I love Historic Downtown Terrell so much.

This is a place where small-town pleasures meet historic treasures, and there’s no better time to experience that than at the 4th Annual Terrell Mural Walk and Day of Art on Saturday, September 20, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

A Day of Art, History, and Community

This year’s event is going to be bigger and better than ever, with activities for the whole family. One of the things I’m most excited about is watching a commissioned artist painting a canvas of the iconic IRIS marquee right there on site. You can also get in on the fun and add your own brushstrokes to a community Paint-by-Number Mural.

But that’s just the beginning of the fun. The day is packed with so many amazing things to do and see:

• Mural Walk Challenge…download the Discover Terrell app to participate to win Terrell Swag.
• A “Rocko the Snake” Project: A youth-led project creating a giant snake from hand-painted rocks.
• The Terrell Heritage Market: Find unique items from local artisans, makers, and cottage bakers.
• Coffee and Canvas: Get creative with a painting session at Terrell Coffee Co.
• An Art Show: See beautiful works from local artists at the LYRIC Building.
• Pet Adoption and Pet Art: Meet some furry friends and create some pet-themed art.
• A Free Kids Zone: Let the kids run wild with plenty of fun, family-friendly activities.

A Special Centennial Celebration

The Terrell Mural Walk is a celebration of our community, but this year it’s also a special celebration of the IRIS Theatre’s 100th birthday! The theater first opened its doors on September 1, 1925, and to celebrate its centennial, the owners, Gayle and Ron Harris, have a real treat for us. They’ve found a copy of the original silent movie, The Lady, and they’ll be playing it throughout the day on September 20. It’s an incredible piece of local history, and I can’t wait to see it!

Make It a Getaway

Why not make a weekend of it? Historic Downtown is waiting for you to fall in love with it. You can spend the night at the Hummingbird Loft AirBnb, which was named Best Small Town AirBnb by the Official America’s Best of Series. After a fun day exploring the murals, you can go honky-tonkin at the Silver Saloon or Side Street Bar. There are also wonderful hotel options in Terrell. Download the Discover Terrell app to help plan your adventure.

Then, get up the next morning and have a wonderful breakfast buffet at Lula Mae Bistro. It’s the perfect way to cap off a weekend full of art, history, and small-town charm.

I hope you’ll join us for what promises to be a day and a weekend of art, history, and pure fun. Whether you’re a long-time resident like me or a first-time visitor, I know you’ll fall in love with Terrell.

See you in Terrell!