Central Texas AirFest Tickets on Sale!

Happy Monday! Hope you all had a fantastic Easter weekend filled with sunshine, sweet treats, and some well-deserved downtime. From egg hunts in the park to family brunches and community events, it was great to see the town come alive with celebration. In case you missed anything, we’ve rounded up the biggest local stories and happenings to keep you in the loop. Let’s dive in!

In todays edition: 

• Central Texas AirFest Tickets on Sale

• Hawn Plaza Back in Business

• 4th Street Parking Garage Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

✈️ Central Texas AirFest is Cleared for Takeoff!

Big news for Temple — the award-winning Central Texas AirFest is back and bigger than ever! Set to soar over Draughon-Miller Central Texas Regional Airport, this high-energy event is a must-see for aviation lovers and families alike.

Guests can expect jaw-dropping aerobatic performances, historic warbird flyovers, and an impressive display of military aircraft on the ground and in the skies. There will also be food vendors, kids' activities, and interactive exhibits, making it a fun-packed weekend for all ages.

Tickets are on sale now, and they’re expected to go fast — don’t miss your chance to experience one of the region’s most exciting events!

Hawn Plaza is Back in Business!

🏢 Historic Hawn Plaza Now Leasing in Downtown Temple

After two years of meticulous renovations, the iconic Hawn Hotel has been transformed into Hawn Plaza, now offering modern one- and two-bedroom apartments in the heart of downtown Temple.

Residents will enjoy upscale living spaces with high-end finishes, blending historic charm with contemporary amenities.

The revitalized complex includes Hawn West and Hawn Tower, featuring a variety of floor plans to suit different needs.

Situated steps away from local favorites like Bird Creek Brewing, Pignetti’s, and the Temple Children’s Museum, Hawn Plaza offers unparalleled access to dining, entertainment, and culture.

Additionally, the adjacent Arcadia Theater has been remodeled and is now open for booking various events, further enhancing the community's vibrancy.

For more information or to schedule a tour, visit hawnplaza.com.

🚗 4th Street Parking Garage Grand Opening – April 24

Downtown Temple is set to enhance its infrastructure with the grand opening of the new 4th Street Parking Garage. The City of Temple will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday, April 24, at 2 p.m., celebrating this significant addition to the community. ​Located at 301 S 4th Street, the six-level facility offers 415 parking spaces, featuring both an elevator and an open staircase for convenient access. Additionally, the ground floor includes retail space available for lease, aiming to boost downtown commerce. Assistant City Manager David Olson remarked, "As Downtown Temple continues to grow, this new parking facility offers a solution to current and future parking challenges while supporting the ongoing development of our city." ​

Community members, city officials, and project stakeholders are invited to attend the ceremony, which will take place on the second floor of the garage. Attendees can access the garage via N 6th Street and E Central Avenue, with designated parking spots and street parking available for the event.

P.S. Looking to advertise in the TemBel Buzz? Reply to this email or reach out at [email protected]!

Events this week:

• HERPS Exotic Reptile & Animal Show - April 26 & 27

  • Location: Cadence Bank Center

  • Description: Join us for thousands of reptiles, amphibians, small mammals, and supplies at huge discounts! Enjoy hands-on learning, meet top breeders, and explore amazing animals.

• Bob Ross Painting Night - April 22

  • Location: Bird Creek Brewing Company

  • Description: A fun guided painting session while you enjoy a nice cold beer!

• Kids Movie Night: The Lorax - April 23

  • Location: Treno Pizzeria & Taproom

• Belton Hype Social - April 23

  • Location: The Beltonian Theater

  • Description: Connect with fellow young professionals, enjoy meaningful conversations and experience a fun evening of networking in a unique and historic setting.

• Wind & Wine Paint/Craft Party - April 26 2:00-4:00 PM

  • Location: Dancing Bee Winery

  • Description: The ultimate paint and craft party. Create a wind chime or paint your own masterpiece.

• Airplanes & Coffee - April 26 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM

  • Location: Draughon-Miller Central Texas Regional Airport

  • Description: This exciting event is open to everyone in the community—you don’t need to be a pilot to enjoy the experience. Whether you’re curious about aviation, looking for a unique outing with the family, or just want to see some cool planes up close, Airplanes & Coffee is the perfect way to spend your Saturday.

Live Music!

Friday, April 25

Craig Howell with Somewhere in Texas Band | Bo’s Barn Dance Hall | 8:00 PM

Lacey Sturm - Acoustic Set | Schoepf’s Backyard | 6:00 PM

Saturday, April 26

Marcus Lindsey | Bo’s Barn Dance Hall | 9:00 PM