Tag: Summer

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Area Attractions Blog Family Fun Kyle Kyle Texas Lifestyle TX

Celebrate Red, White & Blue at Kyle Market Days: Patriotic Fun on July 12

Summer in Kyle just got even more festive! On July 12, City Square Park transforms into a star-spangled celebration at Kyle Market Days. Whether you’re a longtime Crosswinds resident or new to our friendly community, this all-American event is the perfect way to spend a sunny Saturday with family and neighbors.

What’s Happening

From the moment you arrive, you’ll be greeted by the lively sounds of local bands playing your favorite summer tunes. Stroll the rows of artisan booths showcasing handcrafted jewelry, home décor, and one-of-a-kind gifts—perfect for treating yourself or finding a unique keepsake. Don’t miss the lineup of food trucks serving up classics like barbecue sliders, funnel cakes, and fresh lemonade to keep you fueled through the afternoon.

Embracing All-American Spirit

Kyle Market Days takes the red, white, and blue seriously! Festive bunting and balloons flutter in the breeze, and many vendors offer patriotic-themed goods—think hand-painted flags, star-spangled apparel, and Americana art. Pin on your favorite patriotic button, sip a “Liberty Lemonade,” and snap a few photos at the Old Glory backdrop set up by the park entrance to capture memories that’ll last long after July fades to August.

Activities for All Ages

Kids will love the crafts corner, where they can decorate their own mini flags or paint wooden stars. There’s face-painting for little patriots and a DIY flag parade at noon—be sure to join in and wave your creations high! Meanwhile, adults can sample local honey, pick up fresh produce, or sip craft brews from nearby breweries. With lawn games like cornhole and giant Jenga scattered throughout the park, everyone finds something fun to do.

How Crosswinds Families Can Make a Day of It

Turn Market Days into a neighborhood outing by coordinating a meet-up with a few Crosswinds families. Pack a big picnic blanket to share, or pre-order from your favorite food truck and claim a shady spot under the oak trees. It’s a great opportunity for kids to run around safely while parents catch up. Don’t forget to support fellow Kyle locals—every purchase you make helps small businesses thrive.

Why Kyle Market Days Are a Monthly Must-Do

July’s red-white-and-blue extravaganza is just one highlight in a season of Market Days. Each month brings fresh vendors, live entertainment, and new reasons to celebrate community life. From spring flower markets to fall harvest festivals, Kyle Market Days keep the fun rolling year-round—making Crosswinds not just a place to live, but a place to gather, explore, and connect.

See You in the Park!

Mark your calendars for July 12 and come experience the patriotic magic of Kyle Market Days. With live music, festive décor, and activities for every age, it’s the perfect way to celebrate summer—Crosswinds style. We can’t wait to see you and your family waving, shopping, and making memories under the Texas sky!

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Area Attractions Blog Family Fun Kyle Kyle Texas Lifestyle TX

“Mufasa” Movie Night in the Park: A Magical Summer Evening Under the Stars

Crosswinds at Kyle, TX invites you and your family to a heartwarming outdoor experience—an enchanting screening of Disney’s latest “Mufasa” under the starry sky of Gregg-Clarke Park. Grab your loved ones, pack your favorite snacks, and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime!

What to Expect

When the sun dips below the horizon on July 18, Gregg-Clarke Park will transform into an open-air cinema. A jumbo screen will be set up on the grass, complete with crisp audio so you won’t miss a single roar or musical note. Friendly volunteers will be on hand to guide you to the best viewing spots, and food trucks offering popcorn, lemonade, and other treats will line the park entrance for those spontaneous snack runs. It’s casual, it’s comfortable, and it’s all about bringing the community together around one of Disney’s most beloved tales.

A Perfect Family Evening

Movie night is one of those simple pleasures that appeals to all ages. Imagine spreading out cozy blankets on the grass, little ones bundled up in soft hoodies, and parents reclining on lawn chairs as the opening credits roll. Don’t forget a big basket of goodies—homemade trail mix, fresh fruit, or even a charcuterie board if you’re feeling fancy. As “Mufasa” unfolds, you’ll find yourself laughing at the antics, tearing up at the tender moments, and marveling at the lush visuals on the big screen—all from the comfort of your own slice of grassy real estate.

Tips for a Great Night Out

  • Arrive Early: Gates open about 30–45 minutes before showtime. Staking out your dream spot early means a clear view and room for that picnic spread.
  • Bug Spray Is Your Friend: June and July nights in Kyle can bring out the mosquitoes. Pack a travel-size insect repellent or wear long sleeves to keep the bites at bay.
  • Glow Sticks & Flashlights: Add a splash of fun with glow sticks or LED bracelets—kids love them, and they help you keep track of little ones as dusk settles in.
  • Portable Speaker (Optional): If you have a small Bluetooth speaker, share the pre-show playlist with fellow movie-goers for an impromptu neighborhood dance party.

Why Kyle’s Events Make Crosswinds So Vibrant

Living in Crosswinds means more than having a beautiful home—it’s about being part of a thriving community that knows how to celebrate summer. From weekend farmers markets to live music on the lawn, Kyle offers something for everyone. Events like Movie Night in the Park aren’t just activities; they’re the heartbeat of our town, fostering connections among neighbors and creating shared experiences that weave us closer together.

Turning It Into a Neighborhood Outing

Why go solo when you can rally the whole block? Invite a few families down the street to join you. Coordinate a potluck picnic—one family handles sandwiches, another brings desserts, and someone else is in charge of drinks. Carpool over to Gregg-Clarke Park to reduce traffic, and don’t forget to tag your photos with #CrosswindsKyle so we can showcase your magical evening on our community page!

See You Under the Stars!

As the final credits roll and the screen goes dark, the glow of friendship and laughter will linger long after you pack up your blankets. “Mufasa” Movie Night in the Park is more than a film—it’s an invitation to slow down, enjoy summer evenings, and cherish the community spirit that makes Crosswinds in Kyle so special. Mark your calendars for July 18, and get ready for a magical night under the Texas sky. We can’t wait to see you there!

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Area Attractions Blog Family Fun Kyle Texas Lifestyle

Kids Take Over the Kitchen: 5 Summer Recipes Your Little Chefs Will Love

Summer is the perfect time to get kids involved in fun, hands-on activities—and what better place to start than the kitchen? Cooking with kids is more than just a way to keep them busy on a hot afternoon. It teaches useful skills, builds confidence, and creates sweet memories (sometimes literally!). If you’re living at Crosswinds, you’ve got the space to spread out and let your young chefs experiment with new flavors and ideas—right at home.

Here are five easy, kid-approved recipes that are perfect for summer—and simple enough for little hands to help with.

1. Rainbow Fruit Kabobs

Colorful, fun, and packed with vitamins, fruit kabobs are a perfect introduction to kitchen fun. Let kids choose their favorite fruits—think strawberries, grapes, blueberries, melon, or pineapple—and thread them onto wooden skewers. You can even make it a pattern game by helping them arrange the fruit in rainbow order. Serve with a yogurt-honey dip on the side for an extra treat. No cooking required, just chopping and assembling (with adult help for slicing)!

2. Mini English Muffin Pizzas

This one’s a dinner win for everyone. Toasted English muffins make the perfect base for personal pizzas. Set up a DIY topping station with pizza sauce, shredded cheese, pepperoni, chopped veggies, and anything else your family loves. Let each kid customize their pizza, then pop them in the oven for a few minutes until melty and golden. It’s fast, fun, and guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters.

3. Frozen Yogurt Bark

Looking for a cool-down snack? Frozen yogurt bark is a healthy, hands-on option that’s just as fun to make as it is to eat. Spread vanilla or strawberry yogurt in a thin layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Then let your kids sprinkle it with toppings—think sliced strawberries, granola, mini chocolate chips, or even rainbow sprinkles. Freeze for a few hours, then break into pieces and enjoy poolside or as an after-dinner treat.

4. No-Bake Cereal Bars

These easy snack bars are a great way to let kids mix and measure. Combine cereal (like Cheerios or Rice Krispies), nut butter (or sunflower butter), honey, and a few extras like raisins or mini marshmallows in a big bowl. Mix well, press into a pan, and refrigerate until firm. They’re easy to grab on the go, perfect for park days or backyard picnics, and they don’t require turning on the oven.

5. DIY Lemonade Slushies

For a fun summer drink that feels like a special treat, try making homemade lemonade slushies. Kids can help squeeze fresh lemons, add a bit of sugar or honey, then blend it all up with ice. Add strawberries or blueberries for a fruity twist, or use a splash of sparkling water for a little fizz. Serve with silly straws and enjoy on the porch or patio after a day of playing outside.

Cooking Together at Crosswinds

At Crosswinds, homes are built with families in mind—which means open kitchens, roomy counters, and layouts that make it easy to cook together. Whether it’s baking cookies on a rainy afternoon or trying out a new smoothie recipe, the kitchen becomes the heart of the home—especially during summer.

Cooking with kids doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few ingredients and a little imagination, you can turn an ordinary afternoon into something creative and fun. Plus, your kids will love getting to show off their “creations” and feel like part of the team.

So roll up your sleeves, let them wear the aprons, and get ready to taste what your little chefs can do. From kabobs to slushies, summer cooking is a great way to bond—and maybe even discover a new family favorite.

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Area Attractions Blog Kyle Texas Lifestyle

Summer Date Night Ideas in Kyle, TX: Fun Adventures Near Crosswinds

When the sun sets a little later and the temps cool off just enough, summer becomes the ideal time to plan a night out. Whether you’re catching up with your partner, planning a low-key hangout, or trying something new together, Kyle has plenty of options that make a night out easy—and enjoyable. From relaxing evenings at the park to dinner spots and unique experiences, here are some great summer date night ideas near Crosswinds.

Picnic Nights at Lake Kyle Park

Sometimes, simple is best. Grab a blanket, pack a few snacks, and head to Lake Kyle Park for a casual evening picnic. There’s plenty of space to stretch out and enjoy the views, and as the sun sets, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and catch up. Bring along a deck of cards or a playlist and turn it into your own laid-back version of dinner and a show.

Catch Live Music at Jams on the Green

For a fun and easy night out, check out Jams on the Green, Kyle’s free summer concert series held at La Verde Park. With local bands, food trucks, and a friendly crowd, it’s a great way to enjoy live music without leaving town. Bring lawn chairs or a picnic blanket and enjoy an evening outdoors with good food and good vibes.

Try a Local Restaurant (and Save Room for Dessert)

Kyle has no shortage of great local restaurants. Head to The Texas Pie Company for a casual dinner and finish off with a slice of one of their famous pies. If you’re up for a short drive, Hays City Store or Ilario’s Italian Cuisine offer cozy spots with solid menus—perfect for a weeknight meal or a weekend dinner plan.

Watch a Movie at Doc’s Drive-In Theatre

Looking for something a little different? Just down the road in Buda, Doc’s Drive-In Theatre offers a fun twist on movie night. Watch classic favorites or new releases from your car, or check out their themed casitas for a more unique experience. It’s a fun throwback that’s great for groups or a relaxed night for two.

Book a Chill Afternoon at Sage Hill Inn & Spa

If you’re looking to take things slower, a spa day at Sage Hill Inn & Spa just outside of Kyle might be the way to go. It’s a peaceful spot with hill country views, great food, and plenty of space to recharge. Whether you book a massage or just explore the trails, it’s a low-effort way to press pause and enjoy the quiet.

Explore Downtown Kyle

Sometimes you don’t need a big plan—just a walk and some good conversation. Take a stroll through Downtown Kyle, grab a drink or dessert at a local café, or pop into a shop or two. It’s a casual way to spend time together and enjoy the local flavor of the community.

Date Nights Are Easy at Crosswinds

One of the best parts of living at Crosswinds is how close you are to all of these local favorites. Whether you’re planning something spontaneous or a little more thought-out, everything’s just a few minutes away. And when you’re ready to head home, you’ve got a welcoming neighborhood waiting—with wide front porches, open spaces, and plenty of room to relax.

Wrap Up Your Summer with Something Fun

Whether it’s live music, a good meal, or just a peaceful evening outside, there are plenty of ways to enjoy a summer night near Crosswinds. You don’t have to go far or spend a lot—just pick a plan and make it your own. So, whether it’s your first date night in a while or part of your regular routine, Kyle has plenty of ways to help you make the most of summer.

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Area Attractions Blog Family Fun Kyle Texas TX

Slide into Summer: Water Parks Near Austin

Nothing provides relief from the scorching summer heat quite like a dip in the pool or blast down a waterslide with a near 90-degree drop! Texas residents have no shortage of water parks to cool down in this summer – each of them offering landscape slides, pools, and lazy rivers that promise a wet and wild good time. 

 

Schlitterbahn (New Braunfels)

 

It wouldn’t be an understatement to call Schlitterbahn the grandaddy of waterparks. The park rivals every water park in the country when it comes to the staggering number of slides, pools, and other attractions visitors can cool down in. 

 

Guests have over 50 water rides to explore, with everything from adrenaline-rushing slides like Dragon’s Revenge to relaxing zero-entry pools like Kristal Cove. One day really isn’t enough to soak up all Schlitterbahn has to offer and the park has several overnight accommodations guests can reserve. 

 

Kalahari Resorts (Round Rock)

 

Nothing can zap the fun out of a day at the water park like a bad sunburn. Move the water park indoors, however, and that chance of sunburn shrinks down to zero! At over 223,000 sq ft, Kalahari is America’s largest indoor water park. 

 

Twisting indoor slides like the Kenya Korkscrew and Stingray are two of the most popular attractions, but there’s plenty of variety to enjoy, like the FlowRider surfing simulator, Grotto swim-up bar, and Splashdown Safari kid’s area. 

 

Volente Beach Water Park (Leander) 

 

With water park passes easily climbing upwards of 50 bucks, Volente offers some welcomed relief for families on a budget. Weekday passes are only $15 a person, and season passes are only $40!

 

While Volente isn’t as large as some of the other parks, there’s still plenty of cool-down fun to be enjoyed. Fans of thrill rides will enjoy slides like Flash Flood and Sidewinder, and kids will love playing at the Gators Crossing obstacle course and floating pirate ship. 

 

Typhoon Texas (Pflugerville)

 

There’s something for everyone at Typhoon Texas, with slides that nearly defy the limits of gravity, as well as colossal water playscapes and relaxing tidal pools. Slides like Duelin’ Daltons promise thrill-seekers a 7-story free fall, and guests in search of something more relaxing are sure to enjoy a float down the Lazy River. 

 

The park also offers private cabana rentals for guests who are looking for a bit more relaxation and privacy with their visit. 

 

Crosswinds Splash Park

There’s no doubt that a day at the water park provides great family fun, but sometimes skipping the parking and locker rental and opting for a staycation can be the more appealing choice. 

 

Whether you’re looking to work on your tan and enjoy a good book, splash around with the kids, or perfect your cannonball, the pool and splash park is the ideal place for Crosswinds residents to cool down on a hot summer day. 

If you’d like to learn more about all the amenities Crosswinds has to offer and find your dream home, contact our team today.

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Area Attractions Blog Family Fun Kyle Texas Lifestyle Tips

Beat the Heat: Indoor Activities for Hot Summer Days

Between sunset concerts, movies in the park, family vacations, and Fourth of July fireworks, there’s plenty to love about summer. As much fun as it can be, however, it can also be brutally hot, and that heat can quickly drain enthusiasm. 

 

On those days when it’s just too hot to venture outside, here are some fun activities to keep the kiddos entertained indoors. 

 

Get Crafty

 

Crafts and art projects are hands down one of the best ways to keep kids entertained during a hot summer day. Supplies are often not too expensive, and kids get to engage their creative side while having fun. 

 

The list of indoor crafts for children is nearly endless, but a few classics your kiddos may want to try include: 

 

  • Dreamcatchers
  • Sponge water bombs
  • Seashell, button, or macaroni picture frames
  • Paper mache balloons
  • Water gun painting
  • Watermelon lip scrub
  • Oil and glitter sensory bottles

 

Cook Up Some Fun

 

Cooking is another great activity that engages kids, and creating new recipes can be especially fun for children who like to help out in the kitchen. Summer recipes like making homemade pizza yogurt parfaits, or rainbow fruit skewers (with the occasional mini marshmallow) are great for smaller children, as it allows them to get hands-on without too much mess. 

 

If cooking isn’t really your child’s passion, they may still love indoor activities like setting up a blanket picnic or creating a sundae ice cream bar. 

 

Board Games

 

Board games will always be a classic indoor activity that families can enjoy. Boardgames not only offer a much-needed way for kids to have unplugged fun but also provide an avenue for families to bond and spend time together. 

 

Not only are classic board games like Sorry, Life, Candy Land, Settlers of Catan, and Monopoly fun to play, but can help to lengthen a children’s attention span and even soothe anxiety. 

 

Learn Something

 

A hot (or rainy) summer day can be a great opportunity for kids to get some mental stimulation while on summer break. The Kyle Public Library has a summer reading program with a great selection of books for all age levels. Why not swing by to pick up a few and then set up a reading nook in your home for your child to dive into their book selection?

 

Simple science experiments like making elephant toothpaste or color-changing invisible ink can also be a fun activity for kids. Some of these can get messy though, and best suited to the garage or a space that’s easy to clean up. 

 

Get Active

 

One of the biggest challenges on a hot summer day is finding ways for kids to burn up energy and stay active while indoors. Not to worry, there are several fun ways you can engage your kiddos inside without leaving your home like it was hit by a tornado. 

 

Dance parties are a simple yet fun way to get kids moving. Turn the lights down low, put on a strobe or disco light, and crank up the jams. Indoor obstacle courses can also be a fun way for gets to stay active. An army crawl through a pillow fort, funky feet tape trail, or headstand station against a wall are all fun obstacles for any aspiring ninja warriors. 

Crosswinds residents can beat the heat at our community-exclusive Swimming Pool and Splash Park! Each home within the Crosswinds community is constructed to suit today’s family living needs. If you’d like to learn more, contact our team today.

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Area Attractions Blog Events Family Fun Kyle Texas Lifestyle

July Events + Activities in Kyle, Texas

With summer in full swing, July is packed full of activities for the entire family. Mark your calendar because there’s something for everyone happening this month in Kyle. 

 

Happenings and Events

 

Grab the sunscreen and a bottle of water, and get outside because there are events happening around Kyle you won’t want to miss! If you haven’t made it down to Kyle Market Days yet, then be sure to stop by the July 13 date. From 8 AM to 1 PM, vendors at Mary Kyle Hartson Park will be selling food, arts and crafts, and farm-to-market items. There will also be live music to go along with a patriotic theme. 

 

If you’re looking for some relief from the Texas heat (and who isn’t?), then Kyle’s Dive-In Movie Night is not not be missed. Families are invited to the James Adkins Pool on July 19 for a 7:30 PM showing of Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom. Along with swimming, there will be raffles, prizes, and outdoor games to round out the fun. 

 

Hobbies 

 

Kyle’s community calendar is full of opportunities to enjoy a variety of hobbies (all in the comfort of air conditioning). Community hobby night happens every Monday at 5 PM and offers visitors to the library a chance to enjoy models, miniatures, board games, card games, and fiber arts. Be sure to stay after for weekly trivia, kicking off at 6:30 PM. 

 

Summer is one of the best times to pick up a new hobby, and teens can take a free juggling workshop on Saturday, July 6, at 1 PM. 

 

Ways to Stay Fit

 

If you’re looking to get active this summer, there are several events happening around Kyle  – all of them free and open to the public! On Tuesday, July 2 and 16, at 6:30 PM, there’s a free Hatha-style yoga class that is open to all ages and skill levels. 

 

If you can’t make one of the yoga classes, then be sure to stop in for the July edition of Kyle’s free nutrition class and walking club. The event takes place July 16 at 10 AM and will cover both tips for healthy eating as well as a walking session. 

 

Something for the Kiddos

 

It’s important that kids stay active both mentally and physically on summer break, and from babies up through teens, there is plenty happening around Kyle for children. 

 

On July 8 at 10:30 AM, parents can enjoy stories and sensory play with their toddlers at the Kyle Public Library, and on July 11, babies can get in on the action with nursery rhymes at the Baby Lapsit event. Older kids and teens will want to check out events like Lego Mania, Pokémon Trainers, and a reptile show happening on July 10 at 2 PM. 

 

Arts

 

Looking to get crafty this summer? From art shows to DIY art classes, a variety of artsy events are happening around Kyle this July:

 

Needless to say, there’s a lot going on and a lot to love about living in Kyle. If you’d like to find your dream home here, reach out to us to learn more about the Crosswinds master-planned community.

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Amenities Area Attractions Blog Family Fun Kyle Texas Tips

Packing Tips and Must-Have Items for Your Summer Trip

Is there really any vacation that embodies the summer experience more than a trip to the beach? Families have been loading up their cars, spreading out on the sand, and soaking up the sunshine amid dashes into the water for generations. 

While there’s not a lot of complexity to enjoying a few days at the beach, a little bit of planning can go a long way. 

Sun Protection Essentials

No matter what beach you visit, packing the right sun protection is key – especially if you have young children in tow. Don’t head to the beach without these essentials. 

  • Waterproof sunscreen (dermatologists recommend SPF 40 or higher for kids)\
  • Sunglasses
  • Hats
  • UV shirts or UV suits
  • Lip balm with sunscreen
  • Sunburn relief cream

When it comes to applying sunscreen, it’s good to apply it at least 10 minutes before heading outside and reapply every two hours, especially if your child is doing a lot of swimming. Pay special attention when applying sunblock to areas more prone to sunburn, like the shoulders, back, nose, neck, and ears. 

Keep Cool

Small children can’t stay out in the sun as long as adults, and providing some relief from the sun’s rays will help to keep everyone more comfortable. Consider bringing a beach canopy that you can set up or renting an umbrella if you’re at a beach that provides them. 

Be sure to also bring along plenty of snacks and drinks to keep everyone happy. Soda or sugary drinks may be popular, but water is your best bet when it comes to preventing dehydration. 

Fun in the Sun

It’s easy to have a good time simply splashing in the surf, but beach toys will take the fun to a whole other level. Just don’t make the mistake of taking more toys than you can carry. A good rule of thumb for the kiddos is to remind them that if they want to play with it, then they can help carry it. 

A few classic toys to consider bringing:

  • Sandcastle buckets and shovels
  • Frisbee
  • Kite
  • Skimboard
  • Water guns
  • Floats
  • A mask, snorkel, and flippers

If your beach crew is all about some friendly competition, beach games like volleyball, tidal-ball, spike ball, or a portable cornhole set can provide plenty of fun. 

Keep Things Easy

A relaxing day at the beach should be a simple affair, but that doesn’t mean that items of convenience should be ignored. One of the great things about stopping at those giant beach stores every touristy beach town has is that they’re full of items you don’t think you need until you need them. 

These items may not be essentials, but they’re nice to have:

  • Cooler bags
  • Mesh or waterproof bags
  • Sunglass straps
  • Aloe vera gel
  • Sand remover wipes
  • Insulated water bottles
  • Bug repellant
  • Trash bags
  • Rash guards
  • Beach chairs

The awesome thing about Kyle is that it’s only about 3 and a half hours to Gavelston, and if you’re simply looking for a beach day at the lake, well, that’s only a 10-minute car ride away. Kyle’s easy access to so much that Texas has to offer is one of the things that makes it such a wonderful place to live. 

Until you can get to the beach, you could enjoy a stay at home Sunday at Windy Point Amenity Center, which features a large pool with beach access, shade structures, and a spray park! If you’re looking for a home here, reach out to the Crosswinds team to learn more about this master-planned community.

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