Lake Texoma Weekend Guide: July 16–20

SHERMAN, Texas — The July 16–20 stretch offers a mix of free music, lake programs, shopping and a few paid outings across Sherman, Denison, Pottsboro and Lake Texoma. Thursday opens with the final Hot Summer Nights concert of the season at Lucy Kidd-Key Park. Los Morros is scheduled to start at 7 p.m., followed by Grupo Bryndis about 7:30 p.m. The City of Sherman series is free and takes place on the lawn; the calendar also lists an official after-party at The Post in downtown Sherman. Friday’s choices are at Eisenhower State Park near Denison. “Tails on the Trails” pairs a park ranger and a rescue dog from Sherman Animal Shelter for an easy walk beginning at the OHV parking lot at 9 a.m. Participants should bring water, leave personal pets at home and expect a waiver. At 2 p.m., “What’s That Snake?” at the OHV Pavilion will cover identifying Texas snakes, including the difference between venomous and nonvenomous species. Both programs are free with park admission and may be canceled for weather. Saturday is the busiest day. In Sherman, the Friends of the Sherman Public Library book sale is set for 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 1000 N. East St.; the listing says most items will cost $1 or less, with new releases priced at $3. Texoma Trade Days will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Midway Mall Expo Hall. It returns Sunday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. At Eisenhower, “Nature by Paddle” begins at the boat ramp at 9 a.m. with a kayaking introduction and guided trip. Single kayaks are the only boats available, and children must paddle their own kayak with an adult present. At the OHV Pavilion, “Guess Hoo’s for Dinner” begins at 2 p.m. with an owl-pellet activity, followed by Knot-ology 101 at 3 p.m. Materials are provided for those two programs; park admission applies. Lake visitors have two separate Saturday options: Adventure Paddles lists a 9:30 a.m. Treasure Island trip from Highport Marina, while Island Girl’s dinner cruise departs Lighthouse Marina Charter Dock in Pottsboro at 7:30 p.m. Sunday brings the start of Summer Surge, a grades 6–12 camp at Buncombe Creek Marina that runs through July 23. Families should confirm availability and weather changes with organizers before traveling.