A sign on Chilton Ave. points visitors to the Azalea & Spring Flower Trail. For its 66th year, people can see the azaleas and other flowers on the trail in bloom from March 21-April 6. (Tyler Morning Telegraph File)

The 66th Annual Azalea & Spring Flower Trail is bringing a burst of color to Tyler, with the annual celebration now underway and continuing through April 6.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the start of the event Friday at the home of Joan Pyron, 212 West Dobbs, also known as the Pyron Garden which is open to the public daily during daytime hours. Tyler Area Chamber of Commerce Board Chair James Sheridan and Mayor Don Warren gave opening remarks.

For three weekends, visitors can explore more than 10 miles of blooming azaleas and spring flowers, take part in community events, and enjoy one of Tyler’s most colorful traditions. The trail features art shows, quilt displays, historic home tours, shopping events, and artisan and flower markets, offering something for everyone.

“This is the time of year where Tyler comes alive with colors,” said Susan Travis, Visit Tyler vice president of sales. “Everyone loves getting out in the spring in Tyler.”

The event draws thousands of visitors each year, thanks in part to the homeowners who dedicate hours to maintaining their gardens.

“The homeowners along the Trail are what make it a success. They spend hours taking care of their yards and adding new flowers to make sure everything is perfect for the visitors to enjoy,” Travis said.

Throughout the event, Rose City Ambassadors — high school student volunteers — will be stationed in busy areas to answer questions and help visitors. The program allows students to earn community service hours while gaining experience interacting with the public.

Beyond the beauty, the Azalea Trail also provides a boost to Tyler’s economy, bringing in tourists who shop, dine, and stay in the area.

“We love that the Trails attract out-of-town visitors to Tyler because while they’re here, they not only visit the Azalea Trails, but they spend money in our hotels, restaurants, shops, and more,” Travis said. “Visitors have a large economic impact on the community during this time.”

The three-week event promises to be one of East Texas’ most vibrant celebrations of spring. For more information, visit visittyler.com/azalea-spring-flower-trail.

Events

The Azalea & Spring Flower Trail festivities officially kicked off Friday and continue through April 5, giving residents and visitors plenty of opportunities to enjoy the season’s blooms and local traditions.

Now – April 30

Pyron Garden | Open now for daylight hours | 212 W. Dobbs St.

A private garden featuring a gazebo, greenhouse, sculptures, fountains and seasonal blooms. Featured in Southern Living and Texas Monthly.

Now – April 30

Kiepersol Winery | Tuesday – Saturday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. | 21556-B Merlot Ln.

Wine tastings, food and wine pairings and estate tours. Visitors can explore the vineyard and learn about the winemaking process.

Now – April 30

Amazon River’s Edge – Caldwell Zoo | Open Daily | 2203 Martin Luther King Blvd.

Exhibit featuring rainforest animals such as jaguars, sloths and tropical birds.

Now – April 30

Roses & More in Bloom – Tyler Municipal Rose Garden | 420 Rose Park Dr.

Seasonal blooms on display in the Tyler Municipal Rose Garden, featuring a variety of roses and other flowering plants.

Now – April 5

Quilt Show at the Goodman Museum | Tuesday – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. | 624 N. Broadway Ave.

The exhibit features more than 20 quilts from the 1830s to the 1940s, including an 1830s quilt and an 1880s Goodman-LeGrand family heirloom, displayed throughout the historic home.

Now – April 6

Art in Bloom – Rose City Art Gallery & Gifts | 328 S. College Ave.

Explore a variety of artwork and handcrafted items celebrating spring, including colorful paintings, sculptures and nature-inspired gifts.

Now – April 6

Carriage Rides | Wednesday – Sunday, 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. | Bergfeld Park (1510 S. College Ave.)

Take a scenic ride through the Azalea District for $5 to $20. Groups of 6 or more can reserve by calling Mark at 903-681-2647 or messaging Cowboy Carriages on Facebook. Cash required. Carriages for 4, 6 and 12 available.

Now – April 6

Tyler State Park Dogwood Days | 789 Park Rd 16

Explore blooming dogwoods and other spring flowers via a self-guided vehicle tour or on foot along the park’s walking trails.

March 29, April 5

Botanical Garden Tours with Smith County Master Gardeners | 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. | Tyler Rose Garden (420 Rose Park Dr.)

Meet certified experts in the garden to learn about plants, landscaping and local history.

March 28

Candlelight Garden Party | 7 to 10 p.m. | 3117 Dinah Lane

Kick off Historic Tyler on Tour weekend with a tour of the Curtis’s 1955 International Ranch-style home, live music, hors d’oeuvres and drinks. Ages 21+. Tickets: $150 (non-members), $125 (members).

March 29-30

Historic Tyler on Tour | Various Times

Tour four historic homes in Tyler, showcasing Mid-Century designs. Featured homes include International Ranch, Standard Ranch, Colonial Revival Ranch and Spanish Ranch styles, designed by architects E. Davis Wilcox and Carl Gregory. Ages 12+. Tickets: $25 (non-members), $15 (members).

March 29 — April 5

Antique & Collectibles Week | Various Locations

Explore unique treasures at local antique shops, enjoy exclusive deals and discover hidden gems. Complete a Bingo card for a chance to win exciting prizes. Participating locations in Tyler include Blue Bird Antique Mall & Treasure Shop, Ye Olde City Antiques, The Armory, The Loft Downtown Mall, The Royal Passage Antiques, The House of Wynne, Trading Post, Our Little Corner, plus Main Street Market Antique & Vintage Goods in Lindale and Southern Charms in Bullard.

March 29

East Texas Symphony — The Music of Queen | 7:30 p.m.| UT Tyler Cowan Center

Conductor: Richard Lee; Special guests from Jeans ‘n Classics with the Tyler Civic Choral. Experience the iconic music of Queen, including hits like Bohemian Rhapsody, We Will Rock You, Somebody to Love and more. This dynamic performance blends rock band, chorus and full orchestra for a thrilling live experience.

April 4-5

Rose City Artisan & Flower Market | Goodman-LeGrand Museum (624 N. Broadway Ave.)

Explore artisan and plant vendors, gardening talks by experts and creative products for plant lovers at this vibrant market.

For more information on the trail, visit www.visittyler.com/business/azalea–spring-flower-trail.