REMEMBER THAT GENERATIONS OF OTHERS WHO WILL MAKE LAS COLINAS THEIR HOME WILL FOLLOW US. LET THEM LOOK BACK AND REFLECT ON THE FINE EFFORT MADE BY THOSE WHO WERE ITS CUSTODIANS DURING THE DEVELOPMENT STAGE.
“El Ranchito de las Colinas” or “the Little Ranch of the Hills” was the affectionate nickname coined by Flossie, the Carpenter family matriarch, back when Las Colinas was still undeveloped ranch land. John and Flossie Carpenter and their children resided in Highland Park but the little ranch of the hills was their haven. By 1970, the Dallas area was growing faster than ever making development of the 6,000-acre ranch inevitable.
With a vision towards the future and a love for the land, the Carpenter’s son, Ben, saw the opportunity to pave a new way. In 1973, Ben Carpenter unveiled the bold master plan for Las Colinas, which included a high-density mixed-use urban center, custom homes tucked away in the hills, Lake Carolyn and a canal waterway. Within the first seven years, more than 130 companies moved to Las Colinas and five residential villages were constructed. Now, fifty years later, Las Colinas has not only lived up to Carpenter’s vision but has exceeded it, solidifying itself as an international hot spot for business strength and quality of life.
Today, Las Colinas remains America’s premier address for working and living. It is a commercial, residential and recreational hub, home to the global headquarters of ten Fortune 500 firms, along with key offices for 7,500 companies and organizations. Situated as the geographic center of the college-educated workforce in North Texas, over 150,000 employees are based in Las Colinas.
Approximately 55,000 people enjoy a vibrant quality of life throughout Las Colinas’ 42 neighborhood villages. The community remains a popular destination for both locals and visitors who are eager to explore its diverse restaurants, walkable trails, concerts and festivals, and take in the artistic details of the iconic Mustangs of Las Colinas statue.
7,500 SINGLE FAMILY HOMES
150,000+ EMPLOYEES BASED IN LAS COLINAS
190 ACRES OF PARKLAND
14th MOST DIVERSE CITY IN U.S.
10 MINUTES TO DFW AIRPORT
Whether you’re a longtime resident or a newcomer, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. From a canalside festival and digital activations to a mobile exhibit and home tour, we invite you to be a part of this momentous occasion and help us honor the legacy of Ben Carpenter and the visionaries who made Las Colinas the world-class development it is today.
Discover the history of Las Colinas like never before with the Las Colinas Experience, an innovative mobile exhibit that brings the story of this master-planned community to life.
UPCOMING STOPS:
Las Colinas Home Tour
Water Street
May 20-21, 2023
Expo Tequila & Mezcal
Toyota Music Factory
May 27, 2023
Sparks & Stripes
Levy Event Plaza
July 4, 2023
TGIF Comedy Nights
Irving Arts Center
July 28, 2023
As Las Colinas marks its 50th anniversary, we invite you to join us in celebrating its rich history and culture.
May 20-21, 2023
Step behind the gates and experience some of the most exclusive neighborhoods in Dallas-Fort Worth. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a curious neighbor, or a design aficionado, this tour offers a rare glimpse into the stunning homes that make Las Colinas so special.
Tickets: visit anniversary.lascolinas.org or scan the QR code to purchase
MANDALAY MILE PRESENTED BY
The Mandalay Mile, presented by Toyota Music Factory, invites users on an adventure along the Mandalay Canal. Using QR code technology, attendees are guided through the canals and around Lake Carolyn to discover Las Colinas’ storied history.
1928
John Carpenter purchases Hackberry Creek Ranch
1959 Hackberry Creek Ranch expanded to 6,000 acres
How it works:
A series of stops along the route are defined by “experience markers” which, when scanned on a mobile device, trigger an interactive experience. Each time a user engages with the Mandalay Mile experience along the route, points are earned and can be exchanged for merch and discounts at the Toyota Music Factory. Launching Summer 2023.
1968
Federal Aviation Administration announces DFW airport site adjacent to ranch
1970s
John’s son Ben Carpenter unveils Las Colinas master plan, development of the Urban Center begins; first companies and residents move in
1980s
Growth continues rapidly with completion of Williams Square, Omni and other significant projects. The Mustangs of Las Colinas are installed in 1984.
LET’S GO DIGITAL
Visit: anniversary.lascolinas.org
Follow us: @LasColinasTex
GTE (Verizon), ExxonMobil, and Nokia open significant new offices
Las Colinas becomes a technology hub with Microsoft, Blackberry, Seimens, NEC, Oracle, and others
GLOW Canalside Celebration
Online Archive
Historical Photo Gallery
Event Calendar
Residential growth accelerates as Las Colinas grows to 55,000 residents by 2020 and new destinations at Toyota Music Factory and Irving Convention Center open
Caterpillar, Christus Health and Builders
FirstSource are some of the notable corporate players to call Las Colinas home.
Before the curtain closes on Las Colinas’ 50th Anniversary, GLOW takes center stage to illuminate the Mandalay Canal. This two-night celebration brings together the elements of light, water, and sound for a dazzling display of performances. With interactive light installations, water-based entertainment, and walkways synced to music, expect the unexpected as the immersive experience unfolds throughout the canal. Don’t miss this illuminating encore that captures the vibrancy and spirit of Las Colinas, October 20-21, 2023.
Interested in getting involved as 50th Anniversary program partner or volunteer? Email us at liaisons@lascolinas.org.
DATES:
OCTOBER 20-21, 2023
LOCATIONS:
» Mandalay Canal
» Venetian Terrace
» Omni Las Colinas
» Water Street
» Williams Square Plaza
» Toyota Music Factory
This October, GLOW Canalside Celebration takes center stage for an unforgettable two-night celebration along the Mandalay Canal. As part of GLOW, the Las Colinas Association has created an opportunity for local and national artists to showcase their talents through the GLOW Art Collaborative.
Through this program, we can unlock the potential of the Mandalay Canal and pave the way for more permanent art installations in the Las Colinas Urban Center. If you are interested in becoming an essential part of this journey by supporting the GLOW Art Collaborative, please email anniversary@lascolinas.org
Your generosity will not only support talented artists but also shape the evolving landscape of Las Colinas, making it a more engaging and culturally rich place to live, work, and play. Every donation, no matter the size, has a significant impact on our mission.
