Time to grease your surfboards y’all. McKinney’s planned Cannon Beach surf lagoon and recreation complex cleared an important step on Tuesday. The Planning & Zoning Commission recommended approval of a zoning change needed for the project, sending the proposal to City Council for a final decision.

To accommodate the project, the city had to introduce a new zoning category called “Outdoor Water Recreation and Entertainment Facility.” City planners said the classification could allow similar recreation-focused developments in the future.

The development would feature a large artificial surf lagoon powered by Wavegarden technology, a globally used system that creates rideable waves in man-made lagoons. The same tech works at surf parks in the UK, Brazil, Switzerland and Australia.

Plans for Cannon Beach include more than just surfing. The complex is expected to offer swimming areas, paddleboarding, cabanas, food and beverage spaces, and spectator viewing areas, turning the lagoon into a regional recreation destination rather than just a surf park.

Developers emphasized that the project is designed to operate year-round, with different wave settings that can serve beginners through advanced surfers. If approved by City Council, Cannon Beach would become one of the few surf lagoon destinations in Texas and a major new attraction for McKinney.
(Source: McKinney Planning & Zoning Commission, March 10)

🎨 Arts in Bloom Festival
A spring weekend where Historic Downtown turns into an open-air art gallery. Expect 120+ artists, live music, Texas wine tastings and plenty of street energy.
Historic Downtown McKinney | Apr 10–12 | Free admission ($30 wine tasting package).

A 327-unit apartment community called Palladium Craig Ranch is moving forward at 7909 Collin McKinney Parkway in Craig Ranch Town Center. The project will include studios through three-bedroom units plus amenities like a pool, fitness center, dog park, and courtyard, with the first apartments expected to open in summer 2027.
Source: Connect CRE

It just got easier to make new friends in town. What’s On McKinney launched a new Facebook group today where locals can introduce themselves, suggest activities, find people to meet up with and find events where it’s easy to connect.

The idea is simple: post a quick intro, propose something like coffee, pickleball, or a walk on the Square, and see who wants to join. Friendship doesn’t usually happen by waiting for it - it happens when you actually get out there and meet. So get off your screens and make it happen! Join here.
Source: What’s On McKinney

The Samaritan Inn has started expanding its PAWS pet kennel program, which will allow the shelter to serve more dogs and add housing for cats on its 15-acre campus. The new kennel is expected to be completed in October, helping ensure residents experiencing homelessness don’t have to give up their pets to access shelter services.
Source: The Samaritan Inn

🧵 Machine Embroidery
Bring your own supplies and work on embroidery projects alongside other makers in this relaxed drop-in crafting group.
Senior Recreation Center, 9AM-3PM (Free, no registration needed).

🏕️ Family Campout at the Heard
Spend the night at the sanctuary with team games, wildlife encounters, and classic campfire s’mores. A fun overnight adventure for families with kids ages 5–12.
Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, 6PM–11:59AM ($24 kids | $29 adults).

🏺 Sip & Throw Pottery Wheel Class
Try the pottery wheel in this hands-on class with 90 minutes of guided instruction, plus time to sip, socialize and create your own ceramic piece.
Jump Into Art Pottery Studio, 7-9PM ($88, registration required).

☘️ St. Patrick’s Weekend Kick-Off Party
Kick off St. Patrick’s weekend with live music from Plunk Murray, plus plenty of beer and festive vibes at TUPPS Brewery.
TUPPS Brewery, 7–10PM.

😂 ComedySportz: Richardson Regals vs McKinney Main Events
Improv comedy played like a sport. Two teams face off in fast, ridiculous games inspired by audience suggestions while the crowd cheers and helps decide the winner.
The Comedy Arena, 7:30-8:30PM ($15 + 2-item minimum).

🏃 McKinney Shamrock Run 5K
Kick off St. Patrick’s weekend with this festive 5K at Towne Lake Park, featuring a chip-timed race, finisher medals, and a post-race green beer from TUPPS Brewery.
Towne Lake Park, 9AM (Festivities start 8AM, $48).

🧘 Free Tai Chi Fitness Class with Cheng Ming
Slow down and reset with a gentle Tai Chi session focused on balance, breathing and mindful movement. Great for beginners and regulars alike.
District 121, 10-11AM (Free).

🛍️ MillHouse Makers Market
Shop handmade goods, art, jewelry, and small-batch finds from local makers inside the historic McKinney Cotton Mill. A relaxed indoor market perfect for discovering something unique.
MillHouse McKinney, 10AM-4PM (Free).

🍀 McKinney St. Patrick’s Day Beer Walk
Wear green and explore Historic Downtown while tasting craft beer, cider and seltzer at participating stops.
Historic Downtown McKinney, 11AM–6PM ($42).

🐉 Dragon Trails Grand Opening
A brand-new dragon-themed nature trail is opening at the Heard. Expect giant dragons hidden along the forest path, perfect for kids, photos, and a fun walk through the sanctuary.
Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, 10AM-5PM (Reservations required).

🐰 Chunky Knit Bunny Workshop
Sip, laugh and craft your own adorable chunky knit bunny in this cozy, beginner-friendly workshop. BYOB and perfect for a girls’ afternoon or creative break.
MillHouse Create, Suite 520, 4-6PM ($35).

😂 Comedy Night at Landon Winery
Stand-up comedians take the stage for a night of big laughs paired with wine and good vibes.
Landon Winery McKinney (101 N Kentucky St), 7-8:30PM (tickets from $19).

🍀 St. Patrick’s Day Vendor Market
Shop local vendors across 14 acres of family-friendly market fun during this St. Patrick’s themed shopping day.
The Stix Icehouse, 11AM–5PM.

🛶 3-Hour Wetland Canoe Trails
Paddle through the Heard wetlands and discover local wildlife while learning the basics of wetland ecology. After a quick canoe intro, enjoy a guided paddle followed by free time to explore the water on your own. No experience needed.
Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, 1-4PM ($32 members | $42 non-members).

🎶 City Live Duo
Original acoustic arrangements of favorite pop and rock songs in a laid-back live set.
Harvest at the Masonic, 7:30-11PM.

🎸 Love Handle - Live Music
High-energy rock band playing a crowd-pleasing mix of classics from Billy Joel, Huey Lewis, ZZ Top, Poison and more. Expect big solos, sax riffs and a packed dance floor.
Zin Zen Wine Bistro, 8-11PM.

🎸 Zin Zen Live Music Featuring The Skinny Bishop
McKinney-based band covering favorite hits from the 60s to today - rich three-part harmonies, electric guitar solos, and a mix of modern and classic pop.
Zin Zen Wine Bistro, 8-11PM (Reservations + open seating).

☘️ St. Patty’s Day Bash at TUPPS Brewery
An all-day St. Patrick’s party with live bands, Irish vibes, and plenty of craft beer flowing. Line-up: 10AM-1PM Dak Barkley (Beer Hall) | 1-4PM The Flannel Pajamas (Outdoor Stage) | 4-7PM Violet Envy (Beer Garden) | 7-10PM GM Exiles (Beer Hall)
TUPPS Brewery.

🎶 Groovin’ in The Garage
Live music every Saturday night in this laid-back downtown bar behind Spoons Cafe. Expect rotating local artists, good drinks, and a cozy spot to hang out with friends.
The Garage (behind Spoons Cafe), 6-9PM.

🎻 Masterworks Series: Mozart
The McKinney Philharmonic Orchestra performs an all-Mozart evening, featuring Symphony No. 38 and a clarinet concerto with guest soloist Steven Robinson.
Trinity Presbyterian Church, 7PM.

🕺 Free Dance Party with DJ Art
Hit the dance floor for a high-energy night of crowd favorites and good vibes with DJ Art. Family-friendly and plenty of space to dance.
District 121, 7-9PM (Free).

🎶 The Buzz Andrews Band
Bluegrass, country and rock covers from the ’60s through the 2000s, delivered with vocals reminiscent of Neil Young, Willie Nelson and Merle Haggard.
Zin Zen Wine Bistro, 8-11PM.

Fri: ☀️ Breezy with plenty of sunshine, high 75°F
Sat: ☀️ Warm & sunny, high 81°F
Sun: 🌤️ Warm with sun & clouds, becoming windier, high 81°F

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