Despite the cloudy sky and potential for rain, residents braved the weather to experience two events that took place in historic downtown Garland May 9.
One event, the Urban Flea Market headed by Emily Low, was new to the Garland community. Low said that she was motivated to put the market together because so many people want more activities in downtown Garland.
“So many local people have talked about wanting something to do in the area and to be a part of the revitalization of downtown Garland,” she said.
“We’ve seen the success of vintage stores in other areas of Texas, so it just seemed to make sense to create our own vintage market here in Garland.”
Nestled behind Low’s store, Resurrected Designs at Main Street and Avenue A, the market featured 10-15 booths owned by various vendors hand-picked by Low’s self-proclaimed “junk jury.” Vintage items ranged from delicate crystal and vibrant porcelain statues to tools and T-shirts featuring icons such as Jimi Hendrix. In addition, repurposed goods such as handcrafted jewelry, birdhouses and door hangers were available for purchase.
A free smile was handed to each customer, creating a welcoming atmosphere for the diverse group of Garland citizens that came to shop.
Low hopes that the Urban Flea will continue to support local artists and bring more people to downtown Garland.
The second event was the annual Cinco de Mayo Festival held in Garland’s square. This event was free and had the whole array of activities anyone would need to be happy on a Saturday: food, 
entertainment, vendors and a splash of culture. Residents could enjoy burgers made on the spot followed by a warm funnel cake or a cool cup of raspas.
Carlos Porras, the organizer of the event, was thrilled with the high attendance.
“All of the food vendors were completely out by the end of the night,” he said.
Between meals, attendees gathered in the square to watch live folklorico dancing, which originated in the state of Jalisco. It was a spectacle of girls twirling in beautiful black dresses overlaid with stripes of orange, red, yellow, and green accompanied by men in powder blue suits and sombreros who skillfully kicked and stomped their feet to traditional Mexican music.
After five, live bands performed onstage, attracting so many people that the square was packed to the brim.
“Considering a 100 percent chance of rain and storms, our prayers came through and a steady flow of citizens contributed to the success of this festival,” Porras said.