What a great time of year to live in and enjoy our part of the world.

It’s not just great weather, there are also many great events going on.  In January, Downtown was host to the Taste of DeLand and the Mardi Gras Dog Parade.  In February, we had a great turnout for the DeLand Craft Beer Festival.  The DeLand Classic Car Cruise-In had great turnouts too, as did Wine, Women, and Chocolate.

Now that March is here you’ll hear the roar of motorcycles as they roll through town.  The DeLand Bike Rally is on Saturday, March 10th.   Motorcycles will fill the downtown that day.  It’s really quite a sight to see.  If you haven’t come downtown to check it out, you might want to.  

There also is an Antique Bike Gathering and a ride in Bike Show. Thanks to our two major sponsors, Seminole Harley Davidson and Coors Light.  Seminole Harley will be giving out door prizes during the event.

After this winter’s freezes, you might need to replace a few plants.  If you do, Downtown DeLand is the place to get your new plants.  Area nurseries will line West Indiana Ave. at the Florida Wildflower and Garden Festival on March 24th.  

That same weekend our friends at the 53rd DeLand Outdoor Art Festival will fill Earl Brown Park with juried artists and other art and crafters.  On both the 24th and 25th there will be live music and lots of food choices.  See the whole schedule of events at www.DelandOutdoorArtFest.com. On Saturday we are offering a shuttle bus to Earl Brown Park and back downtown. 

We are moving forward with the Rufus Pinkney mural.  Eight artists responded our request for qualifications.  We will ask two or three of these artists to submit original art and from there, a selection will be made as to whom the artist will be.  Donations are being accepted at the MainStreet DeLand office or online at www.MainStreetDeLand.org. 

Enjoy your March!  Remember the saying, “Think Twice, Save A Life.”

See you downtown!

Wayne Carter
Executive Director
MainStreet Deland Association