Well, we got Issue #01 out of the way earlier this week. But there are more positive things going on in the South 817 that need to be shared.
My goal going in was once a week, but I’m thinking we should do another. So let’s go.
From markets and festivals to new spots opening up, there’s no shortage of ways to get out and enjoy the community. Before the cooler weather really kicks in…Who am I kidding? It’s Texas. 😄 Anyway, try and take a little time to wander the South 817, connect, and make some memories close to home. To help, we’ve pulled together some of the best of what’s going on, so let’s jump in.
In today’s edition:
Burleson Brews Up Fun: Get a Cold Beer Here! BTX Brewfest Returns Oct. 4
Crowley to Light Up the Night: National Night Out To Bring Neighbors, Police & Community Together
Orange & White Stripes Arrive in Joshua
Neighbors Helping Neighbors: ABBA 4Ever Enterprises
Upcoming Events Around South 817
Thanks,
Pulse Points - Local News For You
Burleson Brews Up Fun: BTX Brewfest Returns with Tasty Drinks, Live Tunes & Community Vibes
Burleson’s own celebration of flavor and fellowship is heating up. Mark your calendar for BTX Brewfest 2025, set for Saturday, October 4, at Mayor Vera Calvin Plaza in Old Town Burleson.
What to Expect
Time & Access: The gates open for VIP ticket-holders at 2:00 PM, with general admission starting at 3:00 PM, and the festival runs through 9:00 PM.
Drinks & Eats: Sample local breweries, cideries, and seltzers. Food trucks will be on-site offering treats; vendors and local businesses will also participate.
Music & Fun: Live performances, games, and plenty of local flavor make this more than a beer fest, it’s a full festival experience.
Perks & Practical Details
Ticket Types:
VIP gets you in an hour early, plus a swag bag, festival shirt, and commemorative festival glass.
General Admission + Tastings and plain General Admission provide options depending on how much sampling you want.
Kids 12 & under attend free.
Age & ID: If you want to taste beer or cider, you must be 21+; IDs will be checked, and you’ll get a wristband.
Bring-ables & Rules: Lawn chairs, blankets, and small strollers are OK. Outside alcohol, glass containers, large umbrellas, etc., are NOT OK. Bags are subject to search.
Parking & Entry: Several local parking options are available, including public lots and surrounding streets. Multiple entry gates will be open.
Why It Matters
Spotlight on Local Businesses: BTX Brewfest is more than just a fun afternoon, it’s a major platform for local breweries, food trucks, artisans, and vendors to shine.
Community Connection: It brings neighbors together over music, drinks, and shared experiences, reinforcing Burleson’s identity as a vibrant, welcoming place.
Supporting Local Causes: A portion of net proceeds goes to charity, so attending also gives back.
When & Where
When: Saturday, October 4, 2025 — 3:00-9:00 p.m.
Where: Mayor Vera Calvin Plaza, Old Town Burleson
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Crowley to Light Up the Night: National Night Out Brings Neighbors, Police & Community Together
Crowley is gearing up for community connection this fall. On October 7, 2025, the city will host its annual National Night Out from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Crowley Crossing (201 E. Main Street).
What to Expect
Meet your local police department and city council — a great chance to chat, ask questions, and build or strengthen relationships.
Free hotdogs (while supplies last) to enjoy with the whole family.
A bounce house, face-painting, yard games, local informational vendors — fun touches that make this more than just a public safety event.
Why It’s Important
Strengthening community ties: Events like National Night Out foster trust and communication between residents and law enforcement — a foundation for safer, more neighborly places.
Neighborhood visibility: It gives citizens an accessible, relaxed atmosphere to meet city leaders and public safety personnel, learn about services, share concerns, and feel heard.
Family friendly: With games, food, and vendors, it’s an opportunity for all ages to participate. It’s a reminder that public safety isn’t only about enforcement — it’s about community wellbeing.
Mark Your Calendar
When: October 7, 2025 — 6:00-8:30 p.m.
Where: Crowley Crossing, 201 E. Main Street
This evening is free and designed for everyone who lives, works, or plays in Crowley. Bring family, friends, maybe even a neighbor you haven’t had a chance to meet yet.
Biz Buzz
Joshua Gets a Taste of Texas Tradition: Whataburger Opens Its Doors
Fresh, hot, and unmistakably Texas.
Whataburger, the beloved Texas-born fast-food chain famous for its orange-and-white stripes and made-to-order burgers, opened a new location in Joshua recently. The restaurant is located at 110 Conveyor Drive, just off Highway 174.
Key Details:
Whataburger was founded in 1950 in Corpus Christi by Harmon Dobson, who dreamed of a burger so big that customers would say, “What a burger!” The company has since grown into an iconic brand with more than 1,000 locations across the South.
The Joshua location features Whataburger’s full menu, including favorites like the Whataburger, Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit (does anybody besides my daughter call it a HubChub?), and Spicy Ketchup. Guests can also enjoy 24-hour service, curbside pickup, and a convenient double drive-thru designed to handle busy mealtimes.
The restaurant is operated by franchise group Whataburger of North Texas, which manages several stores in the region. The new spot is expected to be a popular stop for locals and travelers alike, bringing both jobs and a taste of Texas tradition to the Joshua community.
Neighbors Helping Neighbors: ABBA 4Ever Enterprises
Fulfilling a mission to empower and uplift the community
Right here in our community, ABBA 4Ever Enterprises is quietly doing big things for people who need it most. Based in Crowley, this nonprofit is focused on one mission: creating lasting change by empowering underserved families and individuals.
ABBA 4Ever offers a wide range of programs that meet people where they are. From state-approved educational classes—like drug offender and youth tobacco awareness programs—to supervised visitation services through CPS, they provide practical pathways toward stability and growth. Their diaper bank and resource support also help meet immediate needs for families facing tough times.
What sets ABBA 4Ever apart is their hands-on approach. They don’t just provide services; they walk alongside people through difficult chapters, whether that means giving parents a safe place to reconnect with their children, guiding youth toward healthier choices, or helping someone meet court-ordered requirements so they can move forward.
They’re also deeply rooted in the local community as a member of the Burleson Area Chamber of Commerce, reminding us that change often starts right here at home.
Organizations like ABBA 4Ever shine a light on the power of “people helping people.” By blending practical resources with compassion, they are making a real difference for families across our area.
If you’d like to learn more, support their mission, or even get involved, visit abba-4ever.com
Please click the share button below to send the link to anyone who’d enjoy keeping up with what’s happening in South 817.
What’s Going On? Upcoming South 817 Activities
Have an event or activity you want to share? Click reply and share the who, what, when (date & time), where, and details.
Monday, September 29, 2025
What: AgriLife Class: Better Living for Texans
When: 6 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Where: The Brick - Recreation center in Burleson
About: Join us once every 8 weeks for a FREE class on health, wellness, and practical life skills! Learn how to build healthy habits, cook nutritious meals, and make informed lifestyle choices for you and your family. Led by AgriLife Extension educators, this class is open to all—come ready to learn, grow, and live well!
Tuesday, September 30, 2025
What: Meadowcrest Park Pickleball Tournament (ages 16+)
When: 6 p.m.
Where: Meadowcrest Park - Burleson
About: Get ready for a fun, fast-paced evening of pickleball at Meadowcrest Park! This special pop-up tournament is perfect for players of all skill levels. Don’t miss your chance to play under the lights and compete for ultimate bragging rights! Dads or father figures – Suits, dress shirts, slacks
Registration deadline September 30 at noon. More info here.
Wednesday, October 1, 2025
What: Cybersecurity Awareness Event
When: 6 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Where: Burleson Public Library, 248 SW Johnson Ave, Burleson, TX
About: Learn how to spot scams, phishing attempts, and other cyber threats, plus discover the best practices to protect your sensitive information. Guest Speaker: Officer V. Johnson from Burleson PD. Free & open to the public – don’t miss it!
Thursday, October 2, 2025
What: Downtown Mural Celebration - Echoes of Alvarado
When: 11:30 a.m.
Where: 120 S. Spears Street, Alvarado, TX
About: The City of Alvarado invites you to a historic moment as we celebrate our community’s first public mural, "Echoes of Alvarado".
The celebration will feature a ribbon-cutting ceremony, remarks from city leaders, recognition of the artist, and a community photo in front of the mural. After the ceremony, we invite you to stay for a community lunch right on the Downtown Square. Food will be available for purchase, and picnic tables will be set up. If you don't want to purchase food, you can also bring a lunch of your choosing and still enjoy sharing a meal together. This event is a celebration of creativity, community, and pride in Alvarado. "Echoes of Alvarado" marks the beginning of our commitment to the beautification of the city, while maintaining its history.
Sunday, October 5, 2025
What: Crowley Main Street Market
When: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Where: 201 E Main St., Crowley, TX
About: Shop our local businesses for homemade breads, pastries, salsa, jams & jellies, and many handmade goods!
Tuesday, October 7, 2025
What: National Night Out (Crowley)
When: 6 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Where: 201 E Main St., Crowley, TX
About: National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes strong police community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make our neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live and work. Spend the evening meeting your local police department and city council! Enjoy free hot dogs (while supplies last), bounce house, face painting, yard games, local informational vendors, and much more.
Thursday, October 9, 2025
What: BTX Night Hikes (Burleson)
When: 7 p.m.
Where: Coyote Loop Trail—704 Elizabeth Dr., Burleson
About: Explore Burleson trails under the stars! Join us for a free night hike to discover the sights and sounds of nature after dark. Don’t forget your flashlight or headlamp!
Saturday, October 11, 2025
What: Alvarado Artisans and Farmers Market
When: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Where: Pecan Orchard, 101 S. Parkway Dr., Alvarado, TX 76009
About: Come spend your Saturday morning at the Alvarado Artisans and Farmers Market, sponsored by the Alvarado Development Corporation, and peruse local businesses selling fresh fruits and veggies, crafts, dog treats, homemade breads, sweets, baked goods, and artisan crafts galore!
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What: Burleson Founder’s Day
When: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Where: Mayor Vera Calvin Plaza in Old Town, 141 W. Renfro St., Burleson, TX 76028
About: Shop our local businesses for homemade breads, pastries, salsa, jams & jellies, and many handmade goods!
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What: Saddle Up & S'mores (Burleson)
When: 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Where: Russel Farm Art Center, 405 W County Rd 714, Burleson, TX 76028
About: A fun evening of instructional country western dancing followed by cozy s’mores by the fire. Perfect for date nights or a fun girls’ night out! Cost is $40 per couple. Spots are limited— don’t miss out on this sweet western night under the stars!
Monday, October 13, 2025
What: LinkUp Teen Nights at the BRiCk - ages 13-17 (Burleson)
When: 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Where: Burleson Recreation Center
About: Looking for something fun to do on a Monday night? Join us for LinkUp Teen Nights at the BRiCk! October’s theme is Mario Kart Night—a Nintendo Switch tournament where teens ages 13–17 can race for bragging rights. Come hang out, make friends, and enjoy a night just for teens. Fee: $10 per person. Registration Deadline: October 12 at 5 p.m.
Friday, October 17, 2025
What: Kids Night Out - ages 5-11 (Crowley)
When: 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Where: Crowley Recreation Center, 405 S. Oak Street, Crowley, TX 76036
About: Grab your coziest PJs and get ready for an evening of games, crafts, a movie, and tasty treats. Parents, enjoy a night to yourselves while the kids enjoy the ultimate pajama party filled with memories to take home. Pizza, snacks, crafts, games, and a movie are on the lineup for the evening.
Saturday, October 18, 2025
What: Dogs and Donuts – Halloween Edition (Burleson)
When: 9:30 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Where: Burleson Bark Park, 616 Memorial Plaza, Burleson, TX 76028
About: Get ready for a HOWL-oween paw-ty! Delicious donuts and apple cider await you and your furry best friend at the Burleson Bark Park! Join us for our Dogs and Donuts Halloween Edition for a morning of spooky fun! Don't forget to dress up your pup in their cutest (or creepiest!) costume for our Halloween costume contest! The cost is free, but registration is required to make sure we have enough treats.
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What: Fall Fest at the Farm
When: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Where: Russel Farm Art Center, 405 W County Rd 714, Burleson, TX 76028
About: Bring the whole family out for a fun-filled day packed with:
Hayrides, Petting Donkeys, Fall Arts & Crafts, Games, Train Rides, and more!
No registration needed — just show up and enjoy! Free event. All ages welcome
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What: Alvarado Fall Festival & 2nd Annual Weenie Dog Race
When: noon-3 p.m.
Where: Russel Farm Art Center, 405 W County Rd 714, Burleson, TX 76028
About: Alvarado Fall Festival & 2nd Annual Weenie Dog Race
Join us for a day full of small-town fun, including food trucks, hay attraction, local vendors, and free games & activities for the whole family.
Bring your family, bring your friends, and celebrate fall with your neighbors in the Alvarado community!
And don’t miss the 2nd Annual Weenie Dog Race—a crowd favorite!
Register your weenie dog here. Deadline to register is Friday, October 10th.
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What: Crowley Fall Festival - Sponsored by Texas Health Huguley Hospital
When: 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Where: Crowley Crossing, 201 Main Street, Crowley, TX 76036
About: Kids can dress in costumes to enjoy free carnival games, candy, bounce houses, food trucks, Market on Main vendors, and more. Dog costumes, too!
Admission is one canned food or non-perishable food item that will be donated to the Crowley House of Hope.
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What: Harvest Moon Lantern Festival
When: 5 p.m. –9 p.m.
Where: Bailey Lake Park, 280 West Hidden Creek Parkway, Burleson, TX 76028
About: Join us under the glowing Harvest Moon for a magical lantern festival filled with music, food, and good vibes!
Friday, October 24, 2025
What: Pumpkin Paint Night
When: 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Where: Crowley Recreation Center, 405 S. Oak Street, Crowley, TX 76036
About: The City of Crowley, along with the Crowley Recreation Center and Library, will be hosting Pumpkin Paint Night at the CRC. Bundle up your family, wear your best costume, and join us for an evening of fun activities.
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What: Old Town Picture Show
When: 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Where: Mayor Vera Calvin Plaza in Old Town, 141 W. Renfro St., Burleson, TX 76028
About: Join us at 6 p.m. to watch Hocus Pocus at Old Town Picture Show in the Mayor Vera Calvin Plaza. Bring your own blanket or lawn chair and get ready to enjoy the show! The Old Town Picture Show is a FREE community event that encourages people from all over Tarrant & Johnson Counties to gather here in Old Town and enjoy a family-friendly movie on a giant screen.
Saturday, October 25, 2025
What: Boo Bash Festival (12 years and younger)
When: 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Where: Chisenhall Fields, 500 W. Hidden Creek Parkway, Burleson, TX 76028
About: Join us for a spooktacular evening with your friends and family. Come dressed up in your best costume! Enjoy free candy for children from birth to 12 years old. Children can participate in free games, bounce houses and more. The cost is free, but registration is required to make sure we have enough candy. This year's activities include pumpkin painting, Country Critters petting zoo, bounce houses, and performances. There will also be on-site food trucks with food available for purchase.
Wednesday, October 29, 2025
What: Zumba Nights in the Plaza: Thriller Edition
When: 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Where: Mayor Vera Calvin Plaza in Old Town, 141 W. Renfro St., Burleson, TX 76028
About: Get ready to move and groove with Claudia Soto at Mayor Vera Calvin Plaza's Zumba Latin Nights! Come dressed in your spookiest Halloween costume on Oct. 29 for a special Latin Thriller Night! There will be a chance to win prizes in our costume contest! See you on the dance floor!
What’d we miss? If you know of an event, or have an event planned, hit reply and let us know so we can include it in the next issue.
Did You Know? Crowley, Texas was named for S. H. Crowley, the master of transportation for the Gulf, Colorado and Santa Fe Railway, who was instrumental in the establishment of the city when the railway was built through the area in the 1880s.
Thanks for reading the Issue #02 South 817 Pulse! If you’d like to submit a story or an event, just hit replay.
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