Annual event anchors at Dallas Market Hall July 17^th  through 20^th  at Dallas Market Hall

The Dallas Summer Boat Show is making waves once again as it returns to Dallas Market Hall, July 17–20, 2025. As the largest boating and recreational showcase in North Texas, this year’s show is packed with more boats, more brands, and more reasons than ever to get out on the water in 2025.

Whether you’re in the market for your first watercraft or looking to upgrade, the Dallas Summer Boat Show offers an unmatched selection of brand-new 2025 models, cutting-edge marine accessories, and expert advice—all in one air-conditioned indoor location. More than 80 dealers and manufacturers will be in attendance, featuring leading names like Bennington, Regal, Yamaha, Cobalt, Supra, Barletta, Moomba, and many more.

Explore. Compare. Save.

Attendees can explore everything from pontoons and wakeboard boats to luxury cruisers and personal watercraft, with plenty of opportunities for hands-on walkthroughs, one-on-one consultations, and show-only pricing and financing incentives. Experts will be on-site to answer questions, provide demonstrations, and help match you with the perfect vessel to fit your lifestyle and budget.

“We’re inviting guests to immerse themselves in the thrill and lifestyle of life on the water by experiencing some of the most innovative watercraft and marine accessories available for 2025,” said Bron Beal, Executive Director of the Dallas Boat Show.

“This event transforms Dallas Market Hall into a massive indoor playground for boaters, from seasoned captains and first-time buyers to families and fun-seekers simply curious about the boating lifestyle,” Beal continued. “Boating may seem like a luxury, but thanks to exclusive show pricing and flexible financing options, the Dallas Summer Boat Show makes the boating lifestyle more affordable than ever.”

From affordable fishing boats to family pontoons and high-performance wake boats, the show is designed to help you navigate every step of the buying process. With competitive pricing on 2025 models, special promotions, and financing partners on hand, attendees can take advantage of limited-time offers and make informed decisions in a low-pressure environment.

Family-Friendly and Fun for All Ages

In addition to the incredible inventory, the show will offer a family-friendly environment with interactive exhibits and fun for all ages. It's not just a shopping trip—it's an experience that celebrates everything great about lake life, from gear and gadgets to lifestyle and leisure.

www.dallasboatexpo.com

Families in North Texas have a new way to beat the summer heat — with some help from the Smurfs. Just in time for rising temperatures, The Smurf Experience USA, located at Esports Stadium Arlington, is rolling out a special All You Can Play Summer Pass. Beginning June 13, visitors can purchase the pass for $54.99, which allows unlimited entry all summer long.

For less than the price of two regular tickets, all you can play summer pass holders can return as often as they like to enjoy the experience’s immersive mix of games, challenges and Smurf-themed fun — rain or shine it’s guaranteed to be a good time. 

“We’re thrilled to introduce the All You Can Play Summer Pass as a way for families to enjoy The Smurf Experience all season long,” says Danny Fritz, CEO of SBX Group. “The response so far has been overwhelmingly positive — we’ve earned a 4.5-star rating on Google — and this pass makes it even easier for guests to come back and experience something new each time.”

The 13,000-square-foot interactive attraction made its U.S. debut in May after drawing more than 2 million visitors across Europe. Designed for both kids and parents, The Smurf Experience takes guests on a 75-minute journey through Smurf Village, the Enchanted Forest and through the lair of the evil wizard Gargamel.

The experience is divided into nine themed zones, each with mission-based challenges. Visitors can explore obstacle courses, interactive scavenger hunts, virtual reality and hands-on activities. Character meet-and-greets with favorites like Papa Smurf and Smurfette are included, along with photo ops perfect for sharing.

Standard admission starts at $27.44, with VIP upgrades also available, but the new summer pass offers the best value for families looking for repeat visits. Tickets and additional information are available at www.SmurfExperienceUSA.com.

The attraction will only be in Texas through the end of the summer, making it a limited-time opportunity for local families looking for a unique and interactive indoor adventure.

Event Details:

• Location: Esports Stadium Arlington, 1200 Ballpark Way, Arlington, TX 76011
• Dates: Now through August 11, 2025
• Tickets: Available at www.SmurfExperienceUSA.com
• Don’t miss this unique opportunity to step into the magical world of the Smurfs and create unforgettable memories with family and friends.

Last Thursday evening, magic filled the air at The British Emporium in Grapevine as wizards, witches, and magical creatures gathered for a spellbinding Harry Potter-themed cosplay event. The enchanting evening, held in partnership with FAN EXPO Dallas, welcomed fans of all ages to don their robes, raise their wands, and step into the Wizarding World for a night of trivia, tea leaves, and photo ops.

A crowd of Potterheads lined up outside the iconic British specialty store, transformed for the evening into Diagon Alley’s Texan twin. Guests were greeted by Dumbledore, Newt Scamander, and other fan-favorite characters brought to life by costumed staff and volunteers. The evening featured a Harry Potter trivia contest hosted by emcee Jeff Herndon, costumed in full wizarding regalia, as well as butterbeer tastings, a tea leaf reader, and fortune telling—all adding to the magical ambiance.

“We were thrilled to see so many families, friends, and fans from across DFW show up and show off their Hogwarts pride,” said Dana Cobb, organizer of the event. “It was a fantastic preview of the fandom celebration awaiting fans at FAN EXPO Dallas.”

The British Emporium’s longstanding ties to British pop culture and FAN EXPO Dallas’ dedication to fandom made for a perfect partnership. Expecto excitement!

For more information about upcoming events or FAN EXPO Dallas, visit www.fanexpodallas.com or www.britishemporium.com.

ABOUT THE BRITISH EMPORIUM: The British Emporium has provided British groceries and gifts and hosted community-related events such as royal celebrations, Doctor Who parties, and meet-and-greets with VIP visitors from Great Britain for more than 30 years. More information about The British Emporium can be found at www.british-emporium.com.

Recommended by D Magazine

“Best of British Award” – UK Telegraph Newspaper

2021 Dallas Morning News Best in DFW Best Multicultural Grocery Store

2021 Dallas Observer Best of Dallas Best British Store

ABOUT FAN EXPO DALLAS :  FAN EXPO Dallas is the ultimate fan destination for everyone looking to celebrate everything big in pop culture! As the largest fan gathering in Texas, this three-day event at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center from May 30 to June 1, 2025, offers a citywide extravaganza featuring family-friendly attractions, world-renowned celebrities, and an ultimate playground for Comics, Sci-Fi, Horror, Anime, and Gaming enthusiasts. Don't miss out on the epic experience – secure your tickets now at www.fanexpodallas.com!

Dallas Agency Recognized at 2025 Telly and Viddy Awards for Standout Campaigns in Automotive, Nonprofit, B2B, and More

The Barber Shop Marketing, a full-service advertising and marketing agency based in Dallas, has garnered top national recognition for its creative work in video, brand storytelling, and campaign strategy—earning a combined ten awards from the 2025 Telly Awards and 2025 Viddy Awards. The agency’s wins showcase its ability to develop high-impact, emotionally resonant, and results-driven content across industries and platforms.

At the 46th Annual Telly Awards, which received over 13,000 global entries, The Barber Shop Marketing stood alongside world-renowned winners such as Pixar, ESPN, NASA, MTV, and LinkedIn. The agency’s recognized work includes:

• Gold Telly – Automotive: Bill Dickason Chevrolet’s Hero Ad
• Silver Telly – B2B: Port Authority of New York and New Jersey Internal Customer Service Video
• Bronze Telly – Promotional: Baker Brothers’ Campaign with the Texas Rangers
• Bronze Telly – Branding: Lawn South Promotional Video Featuring Their 2024 Award-Winning Work

“The Telly Awards is uniquely positioned to spotlight how brands are blending classic storytelling with emerging technologies to reach audiences across screens,” said Amanda Needham, Managing Director of the Telly Awards.

“Hopefully, our work exemplifies that creativity, purpose, and performance can—and should—go hand in hand,” said Amy Hall, President of The Barber Shop Marketing.

In addition, The Barber Shop Marketing was honored with six Viddy Awards, further cementing its reputation for excellence in video production:

• Platinum – Nonprofit: The Warren Center’s 31st Annual Fantasy Football Draft Night Honored Family Video
• Platinum – Automotive: Bill Dickason Chevrolet’s Hero Ad
• Gold – Culture / Lifestyle: Gateway to the Globe 2024 Promotional Video
• Gold – Ad Campaign: Baker Brothers’ Partnership with the Texas Rangers
• Honorable Mention – Corporate Image: Port Authority of New York and New Jersey Internal Video
• Honorable Mention – Products & Services: Lawn South 2024 Promotional Video

The Viddy Awards, established in 1994 as the Videographer Awards, have evolved into one of the most respected competitions honoring excellence in video for digital and broadcast platforms. Entries are judged by the Association of Marketing and Communication Professionals (AMCP), which also oversees the MarCom and Hermes Creative Awards.

“Viddy Award recipients represent the best of the best in modern visual storytelling,” said Ed Dalheim, Executive Director of AMCP.

“Our portfolio stood out for its clarity of message, high production values, and genuine audience engagement. These awards reflect the power of storytelling, strategic execution, and the strong partnerships we’ve built with our clients,” said Hall. “Each campaign is a collaborative effort, and it’s deeply gratifying to see that work resonate with industry leaders and audiences alike.”

 For more information about The Barber Shop Marketing and their award-winning work, visit www.thebarbershopmarketing.com.

Celebration of Memer’s 104th Birthday Includes Complimentary Slices of Her Signature Buttermilk Pie at All Locations

 Soulman’s Bar-B-Que, a staple of North Texas for more than 50 years, will commemorate the life and legacy of family matriarch Mary Alice ‘Memer’ Hallett with a heartfelt tribute on what would have been her 104th birthday, May 20, 2025. In honor of Memer’s enduring influence on the Soulman’s menu and mission, the first 101 guests at each of the 20 Soulman’s Bar-B-Que locations will receive a complimentary slice of her famous buttermilk pie with their dine-in meal, while supplies last.

Mary Alice Hallett, affectionately known as "Memer" by family and friends, was the heart of Soulman’s Bar-B-Que when it first opened its doors in Pleasant Grove on October 19, 1974. Her homemade recipes helped shape the foundation of the beloved barbecue brand. From side dishes to desserts, Memer’s Southern culinary flair has been a central part of the Soulman’s story for generations.

"Memer wasn’t just a wonderful cook—she was the soul behind Soulman’s,” said Brett Randle, CEO of Soulman’s Bar-B-Que. “Her signature buttermilk pie is more than just a dessert. It’s a symbol of the love, tradition, and comfort that Soulman’s brings to the table. We’re proud to honor her memory in a way that connects with so many of our loyal guests, some of whom have been dining with us since the beginning."

Guests visiting any Soulman’s location on May 20 are encouraged to share their own stories and memories of family, food, and tradition using the hashtag #SliceOfMemer on social media. The company will also feature vintage photos and a special tribute video on its digital platforms to celebrate Memer’s life and legacy.

“This day is about more than free pie—it’s about the power of family recipes and the stories they carry,” added Randle. “We hope our guests will take a moment to savor the past while creating new memories with loved ones at Soulman’s.”

About Soulman’s Bar-B-Que

For 50 years, Soulman’s Bar-B-Que has satisfied the hardest to please bar-b-que lovers….Texans!  Founded in Pleasant Grove, Texas, in 1974, Soulman’s had only a few simple goals—serve great Texas-style BBQ and offer friendly, sincere service.  With a focus on Faith, Food, and Family, Soulman’s passed-down recipes are still the foundation for the company’s success from their 8 different types of meat that are smoked “low & slow” over only hickory wood to their famous homemade sides, including Ranch house beans and Texas style cream corn! Throughout the years, this family-owned and operated company has remained true to its original strive for success and customer satisfaction and is honored to be considered one of the Best Regional Barbecue Chains to Try at Least Once (2025), Best Roadside Restaurants in America (2024), Top Bar-B-Que Chains in America (2024), the Best Bar-B-Que in Dallas for Takeout  & Delivery (2020), and one of the Best Bar-B-Que Chains in America (2018).

Soulman’s currently owns and operates 20 North and East Texas locations in Allen, Cedar Hill, Fort Worth, Forney, Garland, Greenville, Hurst Grapevine Highway, Lancaster, Lewisville, Mabank, Mansfield, Mesquite, Quinlan, Red Oak, Rockwall I-30, Rockwall Goliad, Royse City, Sulphur Springs, Terrell, and Van. To learn more about Soulman’s Bar-B-Que, visit them online at https://www.soulmans.com or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/soulmansbbq.