This weekend offers a variety of engaging activities across our region, from health education to film appreciation, wedding planning, and family adventures. Here’s our roundup of events happening February 21-23, 2025, with something for everyone in the family to enjoy.
ETX Mega Heart Health Fair
The East Texas Mega Heart Health Fair takes place Friday, February 21, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Pitser Garrison Convention Center in Lufkin. This free community event features interactive educational displays including the MEGA HEART, MEGA BRAIN, and MEGA LUNG exhibits that make learning about health engaging for all ages.
Visitors can explore modern medical technology, including demonstrations of the DaVinci Surgical Robot with 3D visual learning experiences. Medical professionals, including cardiologists and robotic surgeons, will be available to answer questions throughout the event.
The fair offers free health screenings such as blood pressure checks, heart disease and stroke risk assessments, coronary risk labs, EKG testing, and diabetes screenings. Families can also participate in hourly giveaway drawings and receive complimentary items from vendors.
A blood drive runs concurrent with the health fair, with donors receiving a special gift for their contribution. Those interested in healthcare careers can visit the on-site hospital job fair. For additional information, interested attendees can email jima.hill@commonspirit.org.
Nac Short Film Festival
Film enthusiasts won’t want to miss the Nac Short Film Festival in Nacogdoches on Saturday evening. This celebration of independent regional filmmaking begins at 7 p.m. with screenings of selected short films continuing until 9 p.m.
Following the screenings, attendees can participate in a filmmaker Q&A session from 9 to 9:30 p.m., offering insight into the creative process. The evening culminates with audience voting and the announcement of the $100 Audience Choice Award winner. This free event welcomes all ages, though content may be most appropriate for older children and teens.
While the deadline for film submissions has passed, the festival provides excellent networking opportunities for those interested in regional filmmaking. The evening showcases the creative talent flourishing throughout our communities.
Bridal Fair
Engaged couples planning their special day will find inspiration at the Bridal Fair happening Sunday, February 23, from 1 to 5 p.m. at Eden Hill Event Venue in Lufkin. Located at 521 Asa Read Road, this free event brings together premier wedding vendors from around the region.
Brides-to-be and their guests can tour the stunning venue while meeting with professionals offering various wedding services, from photography to floral design. The fair provides an excellent opportunity to gather ideas, ask questions, and begin planning dream celebrations.
Admission is free for brides and their guests, though pre-registration through the venue’s RSVP form is recommended. Wedding vendors interested in participating can still secure booth space for $250 by completing an inquiry form through the venue’s website.
Crockett’s Downtown Treasure Trot
Families seeking an active outing can participate in Crockett’s Downtown Treasure Trot, a self-guided scavenger hunt adventure through historic Crockett. This two-hour experience challenges teams to solve puzzles, complete tasks, and explore landmarks throughout the downtown area.
The modern-day treasure hunt allows participants to start whenever their group is ready, making it a flexible weekend activity. Teams compete for top rankings while learning about the area’s history and architectural highlights in an interactive, engaging format.
This adventure works particularly well for families with school-age children and teens, combining physical activity with problem-solving skills. The outdoor format provides a perfect opportunity to enjoy February’s typically mild weather while exploring one of the region’s historic communities.
Planning Your Weekend
With events spread across Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, families can create a weekend itinerary that includes multiple activities. The health fair provides educational value on Friday, while Saturday’s film festival offers cultural enrichment. Sunday presents opportunities for both wedding planning and family adventure.
All featured events welcome community participation without admission fees, making them accessible options for families throughout the region. Indoor events like the health fair and bridal showcase provide comfortable environments regardless of weather conditions, while the Crockett scavenger hunt offers flexibility for enjoying fair-weather periods.
Weather Note: February conditions can vary, so checking forecasts before venturing out is recommended, particularly for the outdoor scavenger hunt in Crockett. This week is a cold one, so stay safe and warm out there!
