Kennedale's Brickworks Festival
This was the official website for the Kennedale’s Brickworks Festival for number of years.
Content is from the site's 2015 - 2016 archived pages.
The 7th Annual Brickworks Festival presented by the City of Kennedale, the Kennedale Historical Society, and the Arts & Culture Foundation was the festival's last year on this website. Brickworks Festival was an event that was family-friendly which strengthened the community by bringing everyone together in TownCenter for music, art, food, and fun.
April 17-19, 2015
Friday, April 17th: 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm
Saturday, April 18th: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm
Sunday, April 19th: noon to 5:00 pm
Kennedale Town Center Park
405 Municipal Drive
Kennedale, TX 76060
The Kennedale Arts and Cultural Foundation is a group of citizens committed to making a positive impact on our community by promoting art awareness, art and culture inclusion, volunteerism and community improvement. We hope your family enjoys the festival!
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2015 Entertainment Schedule
Main Stage in TownCenter Park unless otherwise noted
All Weekend
Artist & Vendor Booths and a Food Court
Youth Art Display in the Community Center
Mechanical Bull Rides
Selfie Stations (Twitter: #Brickworks2015 | FB: @Art in the Park)
Kid's Zone (scroll past the schedule for more info)
Day 1: Friday, April 17th
6:00 pm: Opening Ceremony
6:15 pm: The Kennedale “Bricklayers”
6:30 pm: Kennedale Alumni Association
7:00 pm: San Jacinto Day/Texas Independence Day Parade (more info below)
8:00 pm: Parade Awards on Main Stage
8:15 pm: Alumni Association Tribute to KHS Alumni
8:30 pm: KHS Alumni Lannie Flowers in Concert
Day 2: Saturday, April 18th
7:00 am: Brickfest 5K & Fun Run Registration (behind City Hall)
8:30 am: Brickfest Fun Run
9:00 am: Brickfest 5K
10:00 am: Winners Announced on Main Stage
10:15 am: KHS Jazz Band
11:00 am: KHS & KJHS Choirs
12:00 pm: Delaney & Patterson Choirs
1:00 pm: Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts
2:00 pm: Historical Society Pie Eating Contest (more info below)
3:00 pm: Fellowship Academy
4:00 pm: James A. Arthur Intermediate
5:00 pm: Guitar Studio of Arlington
5:45pm: C.A.T.S.
6:15 pm: Ben Taylor "Holy Smokes"
7:00 pm: Brendon Preece in Concert (more info below)
8:00 pm: 95.9 the Wolf DJ Charla Corn in Concert (more info below)
Day 3: Sunday, April 19th
12:00 pm: Amanda’s Dance Express
1:00 pm: Pet Parade Registration (near Library)
1:30 pm: Pet Parade sponsored by Richter Animal Hospital & Pet Resort
2:00 pm: Pet Parade Awards
2:10 pm: First Baptist Church Praise Team
3:00 pm: Scholarship Presentation & Closing Ceremony
3:30 pm: KJHS & KHS Players
Kid’s Zone
Located in the TownCenter parking lot in front of the clock tower.
All Weekend
- Bounce Houses with a Giant Slide & Basketball Goals
- Face Painting
- "Fair Hair" Spray-in Hair Color & Designs
Friday
- Youth Advisory Council Craft Tables
Saturday
- The Whatever Puppeteers (hourly, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Train Depot Tent)
- The Creature Teacher (1:30 p.m. in Train Depot Tent)
- Magician (3 p.m. in the Train Depot Tent)
- Barrel Train Rides (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.)
Sunday
- Youth Advisory Council Craft Tables
- Pony Rides & Petting Zoo (noon to 4 p.m.)
San Jacinto Day/Texas Independence Day Parade
The Kennedale Chamber of Commerce is proud to present the 1st annual San Jacinto Day / Texas Independence Day Parade on Friday, April 17th at 7:00 p.m. The parade route begins at James F. Delaney Elementary School and travels through the TownCenter area. There will be an awards ceremony on the Main Stage in TownCenter Park immediately following the parade.
If you're interested in participating in the parade, please fill out the Parade Entry Form. If you're interested in being a sponsor, you can find information here. For more information, email info@kennedalechamber.com or call 817-985-2109.
Historical Society Pie Eating Contest
You won't want to miss this event!! Sure to be a lot of laughs!
Contestants Include:
Police Receptionist Lori StevensonKennedale Historical logo
Animal Control Officer Dianna Garcia
Sandy Valentino
Parks & Recreation Board Member Jeff Navarez
Mayor Brian Johnson
Councilmember Kelly Turner
Councilmember Frank Fernandez
Stephen Brim
Police Captain Darrell Hull
KISD School Board President Joe Taylor
City Manager Bob Hart
Charla Corn
The name 'Charla Corn' used to mean sCharla Cornmall-town dreamer. Now, the name 'Charla Corn' means Wife, Mommy, Singer/Songwriter, Morning Radio Show Host on 95.9 The Ranch, Creator of Corn Fed on YouTube and most recently, Skincare Specialist with the launch of Charla Corn Beauty. She is a genuine Texas Treasure, and her ability to entertain runs the entire range.
Brendon Preece
Brendon Preece has been performing since the age of 6 when he took his fist step onto a stage at the Grapevine Opry. He honed his vocal talent in his early teens on the DFW opry circuit, as well as performing regularly at Johnnie High's Country Music Revue. Since that time he has taken his talent across the country, sharing the stage with many big name artists, including Miranda Lambert, Joe Nichols, Pat Green, and Robert Earl Keen. He has a rich original song selection and puts on a fantastic live show. Come hear why Brendon Preece is an instant favorite!
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Pet Parade
Dahling, we can’t deny my fans!
You simply must sign me up for the Brickworks Festival Pet Parade.
Pets of all shapes and sizes are invited to show off their best looks at TownCenter Park in Kennedale Sunday, April 19th at 1:30 p.m.
Check-in Begins at 1:00 p.m. at the east gate (near the Library). Prizes will be awarded at 2:00 p.m. on the festival Main Stage.
1st, 2nd & 3rd Places will be awarded for:
- Best Dressed
- Best Float
- Best Owner & Pet Look Alike
- Best Trick
Pets of all shapes and sizes are invited to show off their best looks at TownCenter Park in Kennedale Sunday, April 19th at 1:30 p.m.
Check-in is at the south gate (near the Library) and begins at 1:00 p.m., and winners will be announced on the Main Festival Stage at 2:00 p.m. The entry fee is $5.00 per pet and will be donated to the North Texas Pet Food Pantry.
RULES AND REGULATIONS
- One pet per entry fee/registration form
- Each pet must be leashed, crated or suitably restrained to the satisfaction of the Pet Volunteer Coordinator/Staff present
- Guardians of misbehaving or menacing pets may be asked to retire gracefully
- Walker is responsible for cleaning up after his or her pet
- All pets must be current on shots/vaccinations
- No livestock will be allowed
- Do not bring animals who are ‘in heat’
- Animals must be walked by an adult (16+ years), but may also be accompanied by children
- No aggressive animals allowed
- Only non-motorized vehicles may be used for pet or owner transportation in the parade
- A pet can win in only one of the categories listed at right (determined by the judge)
Real life: The Pet Parade has always been my favorite event of the festival. It was fun and certainly entertaining. In 2015 while I was cheering for my youngest who had created out golden lab's parade costume of gossamer fairy wigs, a tiara, and a magic wand, I learned about a life changing alcohol detox medication from my neighbor who was standing next to me feeding me a running commentary on each animal. She was hilarious. It was during the break when we were all waiting around for the results that she mentioned a drug I had never heard of called Baclofen which removes or strongly suppresses cravings for alcohol in 92% of people. She knew that my husband, was struggling after loosing a leg in a car accident the previous year. He was depressed and had turned to alcohol. Later that evening I looked the drug up online to learn more about it and found a website called LifeBac who offered a different approach to excessive drinking. My husband had tried AA but their program just wasn't right for him. Apparently doctors in Europe prescribe baclofen as the primary treatment for alcohol misuse. Apparently clinical trials in Europe have shown 65% success allowing treatment-resistant alcoholics to return to low-risk drinking levels or abstinence when using the Ameisen method of titrated (not fixed) dose. I showed my husband the site and amazingly he agreed to give it a try. A year later my husband attended the Brickworks Festival Pet Parade with me. I was thrilled his need to drink was totally under control and he felt so much better mentally as well. This year we cheered once again out daughter proudly leading Maxie dresses up as the Jolly Green giant and our daughter as a can of corn. This year they won 3rd prize!
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Brickfest 5K & Fun Run
Saturday, April 18th
Kennedale Town Center
One Mile Fun Run at 8:30 am
5K begins at 9:00 am
Location
Kennedale Town Center (next to City Hall)
405 Municipal Drive (@ Business 287) in Kennedale, TX 76060
Parking
Parking is available around the Kennedale Town Center.
Early arrival at the race site is encouraged.
Registration+ Packets
Register online now!
Packets will be available from noon to 7 pm Thursday, April 16th
and from 10 am to 6 pm Friday, April 17th at the Runner Shop
(3535 W. Pioneer Parkway in Arlington; 817-461-2281)
Entry Fees
Early Bird (by 4/11): $20
Regular (by4/17): $25
Day of Race (on 4/18): $30
Children 10 & under: $10
Entry fees are non-refundable and non-transferrable.
Course
The 5K (chip timed) is an out-and-back certified course
(TX11103ETM). The untimed Fun Run is an out-and-back
1-mile course that follows the first half-mile of the 5K.
Shirts
Entrants who register or pick up packets before race day will
be guaranteed a shirt. Sizes are not guaranteed if your registration
is placed after 3 p.m., Wednesday, April 15th. Shirts will not be
mailed or saved if you do not pick up your packet on time.
Awards
In the 5K Race, awards will be available for Male/Female Overall,
Masters Overall, and normal 5-year age groups (based on your age on race day).
The age groups are: 8 & under, 9-11, 12-14, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34,
35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75-79, and 80 & over.
A race ceremony will be held at the conclusion of the race in Kennedale Town Center Park.
Awards and participant medals will not be mailed if not present.
Race Results
Winner results will be faxed to the Dallas Morning News and the Fort Worth Star Telegram.
All finish results may be viewed here.
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The 7th Annual Brickworks Festival 2016
The City of Kennedale, the Kennedale Historical Society, and the Arts & Culture Foundation proudly present the 7th Annual Brickworks Festival, a free three-day event celebrating our community’s past, present, and future. This family-friendly festival strengthens our community by bringing everyone together in TownCenter for music, art, food, and fun. Friday night the Alumni Association presents a tribute to KHS alumni and performances by the Kennedale Bricklayers and KHS alum Lannie Flowers. Saturday morning the Historical Society presents their first annual Historical Walk, followed by a parade on Kennedale Parkway.
Throughout the festival, you can enjoy performance groups from KISD schools and Fellowship Academy, shop with local artists and vendors, let the kids burn some energy in the Kidzone, grab a bite to eat in the food court, and cheer on your fellow residents and community leaders as they ride the mechanical bull, strut their stuff in the pet parade, or get a little messy in an old-fashioned pie eating contest.
Friday, April 15th 4:00 - 10:00 p.m.
Saturday, April 16th 10:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m
Sunday, April 17th Noon - 5:00 p.m.
2016 Entertainment Schedule
Friday, April 15th: ALUMNI ASSOCIATION NIGHT
• 4:00 p.m. Gates Open
• 6:00 p.m. Opening Ceremony
• 6:30 p.m. KHS Jazz Band
• 7:30 p.m. Brendon Preece
• 8:30 p.m. Kennedale Bricklayers & Alumni Cheer
• 9:00 p.m. Lannie Flowers (KHS '75) in Concert
Saturday, April 16th: SUPPORTING AUTISM SPEAKS AND KENNEDALE HISTORICAL SOCIETY
• 8:15 a.m. Autism Speaks Presentation
• 8:30a.m. Historical Walk through Old Town
• 10:00 a.m. History of Kennedale Parade
• 11:30 a.m. KJHS and KHS Choirs
• 12:00 p.m. Parade Awards
• 12:30 p.m. James A. Arthur Intermediate Choir
• 1:00 p.m. Delaney and Patterson Choirs
• 2:00 p.m. Pie Eating Contest
• 2:30 p.m. Artistic Motion Dance Academy of Burleson
• 3:00 p.m. Fellowship Academy
• 4:00 p.m. Selections from the musical "Annie"
• 5:00 p.m. CATS: Creative Arts Theatre
• 6:00 p.m. Hunter and Savannah
• 7:30 p.m. The Pengwins
• 9:00 p.m. 95.9 The Ranch DJ Charla Corn
Sunday, April 17th
HONORING ACTIVE DUTY SERVICEMEMBERS, VETERANS, AND THEIR FAMILIES
• 12:00 p.m. Fort Worth Guitars for Heroes
• 1:00 p.m. Pet Parade
• 1:30 p.m. Graddy’s Alumni
• 2:30 p.m. First Baptist Church Kennedale Praise Band
• 3:30 p.m. Scholarship Performances
• 4:00 p.m. Closing Ceremonies: Scholarship winners announced
• 4:30 p.m. Closing Performance: Life Fellowship Praise Band
More Background on KennedaleArtsFestival.com
The Kennedale Arts Festival, formerly represented online at KennedaleArtsFestival.com, has played a significant role in the cultural and social fabric of Kennedale, Texas. This article provides an in-depth look at the festival’s background, organization, programming, community impact, and broader significance, drawing from reputable sources outside of the festival’s own website.
Ownership and Organization
The Kennedale Arts Festival is a collaborative community event organized by the City of Kennedale in partnership with local non-profits, most notably the Kennedale Arts and Culture Foundation and the Kennedale Historical Society. These organizations work together to plan, fund, and execute the festival, with significant input from city officials, local schools, and volunteers. The City of Kennedale’s event calendar and public announcements confirm the city’s direct involvement in logistics, safety, and event promotion.
The Kennedale Arts and Culture Foundation, a local nonprofit, is dedicated to promoting art awareness, fostering inclusion, and supporting volunteerism and community improvement through arts programming. The Foundation’s mission aligns closely with the festival’s goals, which include supporting local artists, providing scholarships to graduating seniors, and raising awareness of the arts within the community.
Location and Accessibility
The festival is held at Kennedale Town Center Park, located at 405 Municipal Drive, Kennedale, Texas. This central location is adjacent to City Hall and other municipal buildings, providing a spacious, accessible, and visible venue for the event. The park’s proximity to major roads and local businesses makes it convenient for residents and visitors from the wider Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.
Kennedale itself is a small but growing city in Tarrant County, situated between Arlington and Fort Worth. This strategic location enables the festival to attract a diverse audience from both the local community and neighboring cities.
Festival Features and Activities
The Kennedale Arts Festival is known for its diverse range of activities, designed to appeal to all ages and interests:
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Art Exhibitions: The festival features numerous vendor booths, where local and regional artists display and sell works spanning painting, sculpture, photography, ceramics, jewelry, and more.
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Live Performances: Multiple stages host local bands, school ensembles, dance troupes, and guest performers, highlighting the area’s musical and performing arts talent.
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Food Court: A wide selection of food trucks and local vendors offer cuisines ranging from classic festival fare to regional specialties, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
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Kid’s Zone: Family-friendly activities include bounce houses, face painting, craft tables, games, and interactive art projects, making the event particularly welcoming to families with children.
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Community Events: Special events such as a 5K run, pet parades, pie-eating contests, and historical walks foster a sense of community and tradition.
Popularity and Audience
The Kennedale Arts Festival has grown in popularity over the years, drawing several thousand attendees annually. Its location in the heart of Kennedale and the variety of programming make it a major draw for residents, visitors from neighboring cities, and tourists seeking a taste of small-town Texas culture. The festival’s audience is diverse, including families, art enthusiasts, students, and older adults, reflecting the inclusive spirit of the event.
Awards and Recognition
While specific awards for the festival itself are not widely documented, the event is recognized locally for its contributions to community engagement and cultural enrichment. The festival’s art competitions, 5K races, and pet parades often feature awards and prizes for participants, helping to foster friendly competition and community pride. Local news outlets and city press releases have highlighted the festival as a model for successful civic events in the region.
Menus and Culinary Offerings
The festival’s food court is a highlight, featuring a rotating selection of food trucks and local vendors. Offerings typically include:
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Classic festival foods such as corn dogs, funnel cakes, and kettle corn
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Regional specialties like barbecue, Tex-Mex, and southern comfort food
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Health-conscious and vegetarian options
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Desserts, beverages, and snacks for all ages
The diverse menu ensures that attendees can enjoy a wide variety of culinary experiences while exploring the festival grounds.
Goals and Mission
The primary goals of the Kennedale Arts Festival are to:
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Promote local artists and artisans by providing a platform for exhibition and sales
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Foster community engagement and pride through inclusive, family-friendly programming
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Support arts education and scholarships for local students
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Celebrate the cultural and historical heritage of Kennedale and the surrounding area
These goals are reflected in the festival’s programming, outreach efforts, and partnerships with schools and community organizations.
History and Evolution
The Kennedale Arts Festival has its roots in the city’s broader efforts to promote arts and culture. Over the years, the festival has expanded from a small local gathering to a major annual event, incorporating new features such as live music, expanded vendor markets, and interactive art installations. The involvement of the Kennedale Arts and Culture Foundation and the Kennedale Historical Society has helped to ensure that the festival remains relevant and responsive to community needs.
The festival has also adapted to changing circumstances, such as weather events and public health considerations, by introducing virtual programming and enhanced safety measures when needed.
Press and Media Coverage
Local newspapers, city newsletters, and regional arts publications have covered the Kennedale Arts Festival, highlighting its role in promoting the arts and fostering community spirit. Coverage often focuses on the festival’s impact on local artists, the success of its family-friendly programming, and its contributions to the city’s cultural identity.
The festival has also been featured in regional event calendars and tourism guides, helping to raise its profile and attract new visitors each year.
Cultural and Social Significance
The Kennedale Arts Festival is more than just an event; it is a celebration of the city’s creativity, diversity, and sense of community. By bringing together artists, performers, families, and civic leaders, the festival strengthens social bonds and promotes a shared appreciation for the arts. Its emphasis on inclusion, education, and volunteerism reflects the values of Kennedale and serves as a model for similar events in other communities.
The festival’s support for local artists and students helps to nurture the next generation of creative talent, while its family-friendly atmosphere ensures that everyone feels welcome.
Details, Insights, and Examples
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Artistic Diversity: The festival consistently features a wide range of artistic styles and mediums, from traditional painting and sculpture to contemporary crafts and digital art.
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Community Involvement: Local schools, churches, and civic groups are actively involved in planning and participating in the festival, contributing to its inclusive and collaborative spirit.
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Notable Guests: Past festivals have featured performances by well-known local musicians, dance troupes, and guest speakers, adding to the event’s appeal.
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Interactive Experiences: Hands-on art activities, workshops, and demonstrations encourage attendees to engage directly with the creative process.
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Sustainability Initiatives: Efforts to reduce waste and promote environmentally friendly practices are increasingly evident, reflecting broader community values.
The Kennedale Arts Festival, as represented by its former website KennedaleArtsFestival.com, stands as a testament to the power of community-driven arts programming. Through its diverse offerings, collaborative organization, and commitment to cultural enrichment, the festival has become a beloved tradition in Kennedale and a source of pride for the city. Its ongoing success demonstrates the enduring value of the arts in building vibrant, connected communities.