Get ready to feel the heartbeat of Rockwall County as we celebrate the city’s 171st birthday at the annual Founders Day Festival on Saturday, May 17! This free, family-friendly extravaganza transforms Downtown Rockwall and Harry Myers Park into a vibrant showcase of small-town charm, packed with live music, local flavors, and community spirit. As someone who hopped on the complimentary trolley for the last few years with my family, I can tell you it’s an experience that brings Rockwall’s history and heart to life. Here’s your guide to making the most of this unforgettable day, with a few insider tips to keep the good vibes flowing.
A Day Full of Small-Town Vibes
Founders Day is where Rockwall’s past meets its present, blending the cozy feel of a historic town with the energy of one of North Texas’s fastest-growing communities. From morning markets to evening concerts, the festival offers something for everyone—whether you’re a local, a visitor, or just passing through. The free trolley shuttle, running every 40 minutes from 12:30pm to 10:30pm, makes it a breeze to hop between Downtown Rockwall and Harry Myers Park. Trust me, the trolley ride itself is a hit—my kids loved waving at passersby as we rolled through town, soaking in the festive buzz.
Morning in Downtown: Farmers Market, Art, and Wine
Kick off your day in the heart of Historic Downtown Rockwall, where the Rockwall Farmers Market (8am –12pm) fills the square with color and flavor. Stroll through vendor spaces brimming with fresh produce, grass-fed meats, artisan pastries, and local honey. I enjoy grabbing a coffee and a breakfast burrito to fuel my morning, and the live music adds a perfect backdrop for chatting with vendors. Pro tip: Bring a reusable bag for your finds and arrive early for the best selection.
Keep Rockwall Artsy
From 11am to 3pm, the Rockwall Art League hosts a pop-up exhibit in San Jacinto Plaza. Expect vibrant works from 15 local artists, plus live plein air painting demos and hands-on art activities for all ages. Last year, my daughter Vivi was inspired to try her hand at a mini canvas, and it’s still displayed in her room! This is a great spot to snag a unique piece for your home or just soak in the creative energy.
Sip and Stroll
For the grown-ups, the Italian-Themed Wine Walk (12pm – 4pm), hosted by the Downtown Rockwall Association, is a highlight not to miss. For $25, you’ll get a commemorative wine glass and a passport to sip 13 delightful wines at businesses throughout the district, including Montana’s Home & Gift Boutique, J10 Designs, Brooke & Blue, Vixen Wellness & Medical Spa, Lyon’s Air & Heat, The Flat, Bella’s House, Groovy’s, JML Roofing, Hanby’s Insurance, Lyla’s Clothing & Gifts, Monkey Doodle Children’s Boutique, and Lakeside Florist. Tickets are capped at 300, so grab yours soon at events.hometownticketing.com. Just present your emailed ticket at the San Jacinto Plaza info booth to start your tasting adventure. This 21+ event is perfect for a girls’ day out or a date with your partner—pair your sips with a charcuterie board from Fable and Fire, or The Downing Bottles and Bites, and channel that Italian dolce vita vibe!
Afternoon at Harry Myers Park: Family Fun and Local Finds
At 1pm, the party shifts to Harry Myers Park, where the festival’s family-friendly vibe shines. Bounce houses, a ninja course, and a rock-climbing wall keep kids entertained, while live animal shows introduce critters like snakes and owls that’ll spark wide-eyed wonder. My kids still talk about the baby goat they met last year! The food court, packed with local food trucks, offers everything from BBQ to gourmet tacos—perfect for a picnic under the park’s shady trees. Bring a blanket to spread out and savor the moment.
The Vendor Fair (1pm – 5pm) is a treasure trove of local makers, nonprofits, and community groups. You’ll find handmade jewelry, home decor, and even info on local causes. I picked up some handmade kitchen pot holders from a Rockwall vendor last year, and they’re now a staple in my home. Chat with the sellers—they love sharing their stories, and it’s a great way to feel connected to the community.
Evening Concerts: Rockwall’s Live Music Legacy
As the sun sets, Harry Myers Park’s amphitheater comes alive with music that proves why Rockwall is the “Free Live Music Capital of North Texas.” The lineup starts at 5:30pm with Will Jones, whose bluegrass-tinged country vibes channel legends like Keith Whitley. At 6:30pm, William Beckmann brings a Tex-Mex flair with his soulful voice and border-town roots. Then, at 8pm, headliner Josh Turner takes the stage, delivering hits like “Your Man” and “Long Black Train” with his signature baritone. With nearly 6 billion streams and a 2023 Greatest Hits album, Turner’s performance is the perfect cap to the day. Bring a lawn chair, stake out a spot early, and get ready to sing along.
Why Founders Day Feels Like Home
What makes Founders Day special isn’t just the activities—it’s the way Rockwall’s small-town spirit shines through. From the trolley driver’s friendly chatter to the vendors sharing their passion, every moment feels like a warm hug from the community. Hope to see past to new faces as we celebrate Rockwall’s history with a day that’s all about family, fun, and connection.
Plan Your Day: Tips for a Smooth Experience
Parking & Trolley: Park downtown near The Center at Rockwall City Place (108 E. Washington St.) for easy access to the free trolley, which shuttles to Harry Myers Park every 40 minutes. No parking hassles! Alternatively, park on the grass across from Harry Myers Park for $5. Check the Rockwall Parks Facebook page for weather updates or trolley schedules.
What to Bring: Pack sunscreen, hats, and water bottles for daytime fun, plus blankets and chairs for the evening concerts. A collapsible wagon is a game-changer for toting your ice chest, umbrella, towels, blankets, and chairs. Bring cash for some vendors, though most accept cards.
Kid-Friendly Hacks: Hit the bounce houses early to beat the crowds and keep snacks handy for little ones. The splash pad at Harry Myers Park is open for a quick cool-down. Pack wipes for messy hands after petting animals at the live shows.
Support Local: Your purchases at vendor stalls and food trucks directly support Rockwall’s small businesses. Follow them on social media to stay connected and show some love!
Engage: Capture the fun with a selfie on the trolley, in front of downtown shops, or at the vendor fair, and tag #RockwallFoundersDay. Drop your favorite Founders Day moment in the comments below—I can’t wait to hear what you’re excited about!
Join the Celebration
Founders Day is more than a festival—it’s a love letter to Rockwall’s past, present, and future. Whether you’re savoring a wine walk, cheering for Josh Turner, or watching your kids conquer the ninja course, you’ll feel the magic of this tight-knit community. For more details, visit rockwall.com/event_FoundersDay.asp. So round up your family, hop on that trolley, and come celebrate the small-town charm that makes Rockwall home. What’s your must-do at Founders Day? Let me know in the comments! Or write me I would love to hear from you.
