The Azalea and Spring Flower Trail is over 10 miles, where you can find azaleas at every corner. (Jennifer Scott/Tyler Morning Telegraph)

From colorful flower fields to scenic nature spots, East Texas offers plenty of ways to embrace the season. Whether searching for the perfect plant, admiring acres of blooming flowers, or enjoying the outdoors, there is no shortage of ways to celebrate spring.

Flower Festival

With warmer days ahead, Breedlove Nursery is inviting the community to celebrate the season in full bloom. The nearly century-old, family-owned nursery is preparing for its upcoming Flower Festival, an annual event that brings together vibrant blooms, local vendors, and a shared love for gardening.

“We know as spring awakens, our community is excited for the upcoming season and all that it brings,” said Matthew Toon, retail manager for Breedlove. “For this reason, we host an annual flower festival where we source early spring flowers, decorate the nursery, and invite some of our favorite vendors to join us.”

Located at 11576 State Hwy 64 in Tyler, Breedlove Nursery was founded in 1927 by Jesse Breedlove, who — like many nurseries of the time — focused on growing roses, helping establish Tyler as the Rose Capital of America. Passed down through generations, the family business is now operated by his grandson, Paul Breedlove, and his wife, Laurie Breedlove.

“While we still grow and sell roses, our services have expanded to include landscaping design and installation, maintenance, irrigation, and much more,” Toon said. “Our nearly 100-year-old nursery has grown as well, becoming a destination where you can expect to find quality plants, trees, statuary, and exceptional customer service.”

The nursery carries azaleas, roses, camellias, large trees, landscaping shrubs, and seasonal color, with geraniums and petunias being standout selections this time of year.

“We are unique because we have been here for almost 100 years, still family-owned, with a knowledgeable staff and plants and products that you can’t find anywhere else in Tyler,” Toon said.

While Breedlove does not offer workshops, it hosts several seasonal events, including a butterfly festival, a David Austin Rose release event, and a fall festival.

“Through these events, we hope to reach new people, celebrate the season, and provide an opportunity for fellowship in the community,” Toon said.

This year’s Flower Festival will take place on Saturday, March 8, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Attendees can look forward to “fun, flowers, inspiration, and more.” A full list of vendors and event details will be announced soon on Breedlove’s Instagram and Facebook pages as final arrangements are completed.

Other spring events in East Texas

Beyond the Flower Festival, East Texas offers a variety of events to welcome the season. Please note that event dates and details are subject to change so it is advised to visit the pages or contact the organizers directly for the most current information. Here are a few to consider:

Plantation Pines’ Tulip Farm – Located at 10098 County Road 429 in Tyler, Plantation Pines opens its tulip fields to the public Friday, Feb. 28. Visitors can walk among thousands of blooming tulips and pick their own for $3 each. The farm also offers a play area, picnic tables, and photo opportunities, making it a popular destination for families and photographers. Admission is free but it is $3 to pick tulips. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, 1 to 5 p.m., closed Monday, open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday and Fridays. More information is available at plantationpinesfarms.com/tulips.

Tyler Azalea & Spring Flower Trail – Celebrating its 66th year in 2025, this event runs from March 21 to April 6 and showcases more than 10 miles of gardens and historic homes decorated with azaleas, tulips, wisteria, dogwoods, and more. More information is available at visittyler.com/business/azalea–spring-flower-trail.

Mrs. Lee’s Daffodil Garden – Located at 21600 County Road 3103 near Gladewater, this scenic garden features acres of daffodils in bloom from late winter to early spring. Visitors can drive through or walk the trails to enjoy the flowers. Because bloom times vary depending on the weather, it is recommended to check conditions before visiting. More information is available at tinyurl.com/LeeDaffodilGarden.

Swing Into Spring at Tiger Creek Animal Sanctuary – Set for March 15 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., this event at 17552 FM 14 in Tyler allows visitors to explore the sanctuary while participating in spring-themed activities. It is an opportunity for families and animal lovers to engage with wildlife while supporting conservation efforts. More information is available at facebook.com/tigercreekanimalsanctuary.

Texas Dogwood Trails Celebration — Held in Palestine, this annual festival celebrates the blooming dogwoods with various activities and events. The 2025 celebration begins with the Dogwood Festival on March 22 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., featuring a parade, live music, art exhibits, a car show, local vendors, and children’s activities. Festivities continue through April, offering visitors ample opportunities to experience the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. More information is available at www.visitpalestine.com/events/2024/dogwood-festival.

Outdoor destinations to enjoy the season

Spring in East Texas is also an ideal time to explore the region’s natural attractions. Whether hiking scenic trails, spotting wildlife, or simply enjoying fresh air, here are a few destinations to consider:

Caldwell Zoo – A popular attraction in Tyler featuring a diverse range of animals and landscaped habitats.

Tyler State Park – Offers hiking, fishing, kayaking, and camping amid towering pines.

Longview Arboretum & Nature Center – Features walking trails, seasonal blooms, and community events.

Cherokee Trace Drive-Thru Safari in Jacksonville – A drive-thru wildlife park where visitors can see exotic animals up close.