A note regarding COVID-19
Boerne
Wassail Walk and Weihnachts Weekend
Dec. 4-5
Hill Country Mile, 100 N. Main St.
Get ready for small town cheer this weekend, starting with the Wassail Walk and Caroling Contest along the Hill Country Mile. Participating businesses have their spin on the warm winter drink favorite, while carolers vie for your vote as they sing holiday tunes.
Hamilton
Main Street Market
April 11-Dec. 12
Downtown , 102 N. Rice St.
Hamilton’s Main Street Market is a community event celebrating local talent, creativity, and small town charm. Held every second Saturday of the month in April through December), the market is open in the morning till noon and features vendors, handmade crafts, fresh produce, live music, and baked goods. Whether you’re shopping local or just soaking in the friendly atmosphere, there’s something for everyone at the market.
New Braunfels
Friday Afternoon Club at Gruene Hall
Sept. 4, 11, 18, 25; Oct. 2, 8, 16, 23, 30
Gruene Hall, 1281 Gruene Road
At this Gruene Hall tradition, now in its 28th year, hipsters, oldsters, suits, locals, and drifters mix it up to start their weekend rite (pun intended). This quintessential Friday happy hour celebrates the warmer weather with great beer prices, prize giveaways, and Texas tunes broadcast live by KNBT 92.1 FM Radio New Braunfels. There’s even a very special guest interview each week. A few who have been known to stop by for a chat have included Ray Benson, Steve Earle, Delbert McClinton, Radney Foster, Hayes Carll, and Ray Wylie Hubbard.
Georgetown
Second Saturday Market Days
Sept. 12-Nov. 14
Georgetown Square, 103 W. Seventh St.
Everyday, Georgetown’s historic downtown offers a vast selection of premier shopping and dining. But on Second Saturday Market Days, there is even more, including artisan crafts, food trucks, festive foods, and retail.
Corsicana
Mimosas at the Market
Sept. 12, Oct. 10, Nov. 14
Various locations
Every second Saturday in historical downtown Corsicana, participating shops and businesses offer complimentary mimosas to customers at a variety of stops.
New Braunfels
Old Gruene Market Days
Sept. 19-20, Oct. 17-18, Nov. 21-22, Dec. 5-6
Gruene Historic District, 1601 Hunter Road
Nearly 100 vendors offer uniquely crafted items and packaged Texas foods.
Corsicana
Sunday Stroll
Sept. 20, Oct. 18, Nov. 15
Downtown , Beaton Street
Every third Sunday, visitors can enjoy a relaxed afternoon of shopping, dining, and exploring local businesses in Corsicana.
Dallas
Junkyard Haunted House at City Park
Oct. 2-Nov. 1
Old City Park, 1515 S. Harwood St.
The Junkyard Haunted House is proud to collaborate with the city of Dallas to host a new haunted house experience at City Park. Seven haunted houses including the elusively haunted Millermore Mansion are available for spooky tours. Food vendors are on site, and there are several photo ops with spooky characters.
Grand Prairie
Trick or Treat Trail
Oct. 3-Nov. 1
Traders Village, 2602 Mayfield Road
Every weekend in October, bring the kids out for a safe, festive trick-or-treating adventure. Stroll through a decorated trail packed with goodies, and enjoy tons of activities.
Bandera
Morning Ride with Cowboy Breakfast
Oct. 4, 11, 18, 25
Major Hope Corral, 749 Old Medina Highway
Every Sunday, join Bandera Historical Rides for a cowboy breakfast and a morning horseback ride.
Yorktown
Western Days Festival
Oct. 16-18
Every October, folks from all over gather to enjoy live music, a hometown parade, cookoffs, carnival rides, local vendors, and memories that last a lifetime—always for free. The 68th annual event also has mutton bustin’, a pig scramble, a stick horse rodeo, a quilt show, an arrowhead exhibit, a car show, and a petting zoo.
Austin
Hot Luck Festival
Oct. 16-17
Franklin Barbecue, 900 E. Eleventh St.
Austin’s beloved Hot Luck Festival is returning for two days this fall. Hot Luck Festival is a fun, chef-driven celebration of fire, food, music, and camaraderie. Come hungry, thirsty, and bring your dancin’ boots. A wide variety of food and music events comprise the event.
Lindale
Fall Piney Woods Wine Festival
Oct. 16-17
Picker’s Pavilion at Blackberry Square, 205 Cannery Row
Enjoy tastings from over 20 wineries of the Piney Woods Wine Trail, shop unique gift vendors, enjoy food trucks, and hear live music.
South Padre Island
Wine for Wishes
Oct. 17
The Greens at the Shores, 8605 Padre Blvd.
Raise a glass for a meaningful cause, benefiting Make-A-Wish Rio Grande Valley on South Padre Island. Guests can expect curated wine tastings, flavorful bites from local restaurants, live entertainment, sponsor experiences, and inspiring stories highlighting the impact of wishes granted for children with critical illnesses throughout the Rio Grande Valley.
Fredericksburg
Knights of Columbus Bestfest
Oct. 17
Marktplatz, 126 W. Main St.
Bestfest is fun for all with craft beer, an all-you-can-eat specialty sausage meal, polka and country bands, dancing, a multi-gun raffle, Kawasaki mule raffle, bucket raffles, and children’s activities. Beer, wine, and soft drinks are available for purchase. Proceeds benefit charitable giving of the Knights of Columbus Council 9765.
visitfredericksburgtx.com/events/knights-of-columbus-bestfest
Nacogdoches
Tobaccodoches Cigar Festival
Oct. 17
Nacogdoches Cigar Co., 325 E. Main St.
At the fifth annual Tobaccodoches Cigar Festival, the aroma of fine cigars fills the air and good times await. Enjoy live music while savoring food and drinks.
Boerne
Barktoberfest
Oct. 17
Main Plaza, 100 N. Main St.
This Oktoberfest-inspired festival includes doggy dash races, a dog costume contest, local beer vendors, music, food trucks, pet adoptions from local rescues, and a petting zoo.
Bandera
Moonshine and Moonpie Bash
Oct. 17
Frontier Times Museum, 510 13th St.
At this fourth annual event, guests can enjoy a variety of moonshine tastings and homemade moon pies while dancing under the stars.
Winnsboro
Autumn Trails Pancake Breakfast, Trail Ride, and Campout
Oct. 17
Winnsboro Civic Center and City Park, 915 Wheeler Drive, 900 Wheeler Drive
Participate in a good old-fashioned breakfast at the Civic Center to kick off the weekend’s festivities. Then trail riders participate in a 16-mile trail ride through the countryside of the Piney Woods. Horses, mules, and wagons are welcome. Trail riders also may camp out in tents or RVs in City Park.
Corpus Christi
Texas Jazz Festival
Oct. 17-19
Heritage Park, 1581 N. Chaparral St.
Now in its sixth decade, this is the longest continuously running free jazz festival in the world. Musicians from across the country take over the historical Heritage Park downtown for three days of live performances, artisan markets, global eats, and local flair.
Plano
International Festival
Oct. 17
Haggard Park, 901 E. 15th St.
This is the largest, longest-running multicultural festival in North Texas and has been bringing the sights, sounds and tastes of the world to Plano since 2005. Enjoy cultural booths, performances, children’s activities, a wellness fair, and other festivities.
events.visitplano.com/event/plano-international-festival-2026
Temple
Oktoberfest
Oct. 17
The Yard , 212 S. Main St.
At this Oktoberfest, attendees discover a plethora of family-friendly activities and nightlife celebrations ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Johnson City
Texas Wine Jam
Oct. 17
Memorial Park and Avenue G, 100 Main St.
Celebrate Texas wine at the sixth annual Texas Wine Jam, a “USA Today” Top 10 Readers’ Choice Award-winning festival featuring 25 Texas wineries, live bands, food, local makers, educational sessions, and opportunities to meet winemakers and buy Texas wine.
Jefferson
Taste of Jefferson
Oct. 18
Various locations
Reimagined and expanded, this food event is an opportunity to sample delectable dishes from participating Jefferson restaurants. Tickets may be purchased the day of the event.
Fredericksburg
Food and Wine Festival
Oct. 21-24
Marktplatz, 126 W. Main St.
The Fredericksburg Food and Wine Festival is the premier culinary and wine experience in the Texas Hill Country, showcasing food, wine, craft beverages, and Hill Country culture.
Kilgore
East Texas Oil Men’s Chili Cookoff
Oct. 22
World’s Richest Acre, 100 N. Commerce St.
Oil field service and supply companies compete for the title of best chili in East Texas. Get in the line that stretches 3,000 feet and try as much chili as you can handle, then vote for your favorites.
Fredericksburg
Food and Wine Festival—Opening Night
Oct. 22
Contigo Ranch, 13454 Lower Crabapple Road
Opening Night kicks off festival weekend with sweeping Hill Country views, a signature cocktail from LALO Tequila with bites, and wine pairing stations from local talent including Turtle Creek Vineyard and Prochnow Winery, plus live music and a bandana embroidery bar.
Grand Prairie
HKMKT NightMKT
Oct. 23-25
Asia Times Sqaure, 2625 W. Pioneer Parkway
Enjoy a free outdoor event at Asia Times Square with food vendors serving cuisines from regions all across Asia.
Main Street Fest
Oct. 23-25
Downtown , 200 block of Main Street
Celebrate the city at this festive, family-friendly event that features novelty entertainment, carnival rides, arts and crafts, vendors, live music, food and beer gardens, and a kids zone.
Brownwood
Corks and Caps
Oct. 24
Brownwood Event Center, 601 E. Baker St.
Hear live music with headliner Zak Webb and local groups and enjoy food trucks and wine and beer tastings.
The Colony
Family Fright Fest
Oct. 24
Stewart Creek Park, 3700 Sparks Road
Experience Halloween fun with hayrides, games, trick-or-treating, and crafts at Stewart Creek Park. Get into the spooky spirit with a costume contest featuring categories for all ages along with free activities for everyone. Food trucks are also be available for tasty treats.
Grapevine
Trick ‘R Treat Trains
Oct. 24-25
Grapevine Vintage Railroad, 705 S. Main St.
Enjoy festive songs, spooky stories, and a special prepackaged bag of treats for every little ghost and goblin. Kids are encouraged to wear their favorite costumes for a train ride filled with family-friendly Halloween fun.
grapevinetexasusa.com/event/trick-%e2%80%98r-treat-trains/41477/
Kerrville
Water Street Festival
Oct. 24
Downtown , Water Street
This festival, a celebration of art, music, heritage, and local culture in downtown Kerrville, features pop-up shops, music, kids activities, open-air food, and drink tastings.
Winnsboro
Autumn Trails Lone Star Pepper Palooza
Oct. 24
The Bowery, 101 Market St.
Set your mouth on fire at this nationally sanctioned contest. Come early to get registered, or come later to enjoy the professional and amateur hot pepper-eating contestants show spectators what they’re made of.
Autumn Trails Model A Club Barbecue and Tour
Oct. 24
Winnsboro Civic Center, 915 Wheeler Drive
Model A automobiles take a tour of Winnsboro and the Piney Woods beginning at the Trail Country Motel. Model A Car Club members are then invited to a barbecue at the Winnsboro Civic Center.
Waxahachie
Crossroads of Texas Country Festival
Oct. 24
Downtown, 100 W. Main
The family event in historical downtown Waxahachie features arists, craftspeople, live music, and food from all over the Lone Star State and beyond.
Plano
Rest in Plano Fest
Oct. 24
Downtown Plano Arts District, 1021 E. 15th St.
Rest In Plano (R.I.P.) Fest is a Halloween-themed event offering a night packed with eerie entertainment, family fun, and fall vibes for all ages. The fest transforms the downtown area into a spirited (but not too spooky) scene, complete with Instagram-worthy photo ops, live performances, carnival rides, and creepy characters roaming the streets. Whether you’re a little goblin or a grown-up ghoul, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Bonham
Halloween on the Square
Oct. 24
Downtown, 101 E. Sam Rayburn Drive
Don your costumes and bring the kiddos, young and older, to downtown Bonham where local businesses are set up to give out treats and maybe a few tricks in the late afternoon. Visit the Fannin County Courthouse grounds during trick-or-treating to play carnival games and win prizes.
Tyler
Prowl-O-Ween
Oct. 24
Tiger Creek , 17552 FM 14
Families can enjoy festive activities, vendors, candy, Halloween costumes, and a chance to celebrate the spooky season with some of Tyler’s favorite furry residents.
Rockport
Texas Culinary Arts Festival
Oct. 24-25
Rockport Conference Center, 106 S. Austin St.
Along the shores of Aransas Bay, a new signature experience arrives to the Texas Coast. The Texas Culinary Arts Show is an immersive celebration of fine cuisine, curated artistry, coastal culture, and refined seaside living inspired by the timeless charm of Rockport. Set against the vibrant creative spirit of the Rockport Cultural Arts District, this premier festival invites guests to indulge in an elevated culinary experience with chef showcases, curated wine and spirit tastings, artisan markets, coastal entertainment, and art installations. Rockport’s longstanding reputation as an artistic and culinary destination provides an ideal setting. The Texas Culinary Arts Show blends the beauty of the sea with the creativity of culinary and visual arts.
rockportculturalartsdistrict.com/event/texas-culinary-art-show/
Canton
First Monday Trade Days
Oct. 29-Nov. 1
First Monday Trade Days Grounds, 800 First Monday Lane
What started as a small market on the first Monday of the month has grown into the “World’s Largest Outdoor Flea Market” now held Thursday through Sunday once a month. Find home décor, one-of-a-kind furniture, clothing, and an array of delicious food.
Clute
Spooktacular Drive-Thru Trick or Treat
Oct. 29
Clute Municipal Park, 100 Parkview Drive
Drive through spooky displays, grab some treats, and enjoy the Halloween spirit from your car.
Grapevine
Witches’ Brew Train
Oct. 30-31
Grapevine Vintage Railroad, 705 S. Main St.
The Witches’ Brew Train is rolling in with Texas craft brews and deliciously spooky bites, making for a frightfully fun Halloween train ride.
Burton
Wine and Wander Burton
Oct. 30
Texas Cotton Gin Museum, 307 N Main St.
Stroll through participating businesses while shopping and sipping signature drinks.
Denison
Monsters on Main
Oct. 31
Downtown
Monsters on Main transforms downtown into a Halloween celebration filled with costumes, trick-or-treating, and spooky fun for families and visitors of all ages.
Bandera
Morning Ride with Cowboy Breakfast
Nov. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
Major Hope Corral, 749 Old Medina Highway
Every Sunday, join Bandera Historical Rides for a cowboy breakfast and a morning horseback ride.
Boerne
Fall Diva Night
Nov. 5
Hill Country Mile, 100 N. Main St.
The Boerne Chamber of Commerce and the Boerne Retail and Restaurant Owners Association invites visitors to experience a night out with friends at favorite local businesses. At this always popular evening, enjoy later shopping hours, cocktails, delicious bites, and music.
Brenham
Farmer and Artisan Market
Nov. 6
Downtown
The First Friday Farmer and Artisan Market is an open-air market with local artisans and crafts, cottage food, and retail vendors.
New Braunfels
Wurstfest
Nov. 6-15
Wurstfest Grounds, 178 Landa Park Drive
A unique annual celebration rich in German culture and full of Texas fun includes food, music, dancing, carnival rides and games, beer, special events, and the finest in Bavarian-style entertainment.
Bandera
First Friday Sip and Shop
Nov. 26
Texas Salt Co., 304 11th St.
Come sip, shop, and save with special discounts, while supporting local businesses in the Cowboy Capital of the World.
Surfside Beach
Surfside, Sunset, and Sound
Sept. 18-19, Nov. 6-7
Surfside Beach Public Boat Ramp, Coast Guard Drive
Enjoy this event featuring live music, historical reenactments, food trucks, mariachi bands, and other festivities.
Lake Jackson
Mums and Mistletoe Market
Nov. 6-7
St. Michael’s Event Center, 100 Oak Drive
This holiday market has a variety of vendors and is famous for their market café cheese soup.
Burton
Big Star Texas Night
Nov. 7
La Bahia Turn Verein Halle, 550 SH 237
The 16th annual Big Star Texas Night is full of fun with great country music, food, and auctions.
Grapevine
Veterans Day Parade and Fair
Nov. 7
Town Square Gazebo, 115 E. Worth St.
Honor veterans in this annual parade and fair. The parade begins at Main and West Hudgins streets and travels north along Main to East Wall Street. The fair, hosted by VFW Post 10454 Grapevine and the city of Grapevine, takes place in the large public parking lot behind the Town Square Gazebo. More than 15 organizations provide veteran services, programs, and benefits. Attendees can enjoy live music performed by Guitars for Heroes, an all veteran band that is part of the Wounded Warrior Project, view military vehicles, enjoy food from AMBUCS and Elks Lodge, and participate in activities.
grapevinetexasusa.com/events/annual-events-festivals/veterans-day-parade/
Medina
Medina VFD Hunters Game Dinner
Nov. 7
The Farm Country Club, 475 Pue Road
The Medina Volunteer Fire Department hosts this annual fundraiser that includes dinner and a dance.
Plano
Food and Wine Festival
Nov. 7
Legacy West, 5908 Headquarters Drive
Get ready for a flavorful day celebrating the best in food and drink. Sip and sample from 100-plus award-winning wines, explore a selection of fine spirits, and indulge in mouthwatering bites from some of Plano’s top restaurants. Enjoy live culinary demos from the chefs at Lombardi Family Concepts, shop unique finds from local vendors, and soak in the vibrant festival atmosphere.
Port Aransas
Fall Farmers Market
Nov. 8
Roberts Point Park, Fred Rhodes Memorial Pavilion, 301 JC Barr Blvd.
Enjoy a vibrant community gathering featuring local farms, fresh produce, artisan goods, wellness products, handmade items, fresh seafood, and live music—all while supporting small businesses and sustainable living along the Texas coast.
New Braunfels
Come and Taste It: Meet Texas’ Best Winemakers and Brewers
Nov. 12, Dec. 17
The Grapevine, 1612 Hunter Road
The Grapevine Garden welcomes visitors to taste favorite Texas wines and craft beers. This event features live music and complimentary tastings by up to three wineries and three breweries, hand-selected by the Grapevine staff.
Jefferson
Woofstock
Nov. 13-15
Downtown
This family- and pet-friendly fundraiser for pet rescues in Marion County includes food trucks, artisan and craft vendors, kids and pet activities, games and prizes, a silent auction, a 5K fun run, a 1-mile dog walk, and live entertainment.
Austin
Texas Craft Brewers Festival
Nov. 14
Fiesta Gardens, 2101 Jesse E. Segovia St
Eighty five Texas craft breweries and more than 200 handcrafted beers are available for sampling. It’s the largest celebration of small and independent Texas craft brewers anywhere. There’s also food trucks and live music.
Victoria
Crossroads Barbecue and Brew Music Festival
Nov. 14
De Leon Plaza, 101 N. Main St.
Hear live country music while sampling barbecue from more than 15 barbecue joints. There are additional food trucks, and you can shop a vendor market.
Nacogdoches
NacoPalooza Music Fest and Pub Crawl
Nov. 14
Downtown, 200 E. Main St.
Hit the streets of downtown Nacogdoches for NacoPalooza Music Fest and Pub Crawl. Experience a high-energy evening of live local music, great drinks, and unforgettable vibes.
Bandera
Bandera Honors Veterans and Parade
Nov. 14
The American Legion 157 Post hosts this 23rd annual celebration that includes displays, information booths, special programming honoring Vietnam War-era veterans, a parade on Main Street, and a veterans/spouses barbecue.
Kerrville
Cruise-In Car Show
Nov. 14
Kerrville Sports Complex, 111 Home Run Drive
This event is open to cars of all makes, sizes, colors, and speeds. Bring the family out to enjoy the various vehicles, music, food, and fun.
Henderson
Heritage Syrup Festival
Nov. 14
Downtown, 100 E. Main St.
The tradition of ribbon cane syrup making is commemorated at the annual Heritage Syrup Festival, held the second Saturday of November. The highlight of the only folk life festival in East Texas is the syrup making demonstration on the Depot Museum grounds. Experienced syrup makers operate the museum’s antique mule-powered equipment to produce old-fashioned cane syrup. While the syrup cooks, other folk artists demonstrate the techniques of lace making, rope making, basket making, blacksmithing, wood carving, quilting, and other old-time survival skills. Folk singers entertain, antique tractors whine, and a petting zoo and local civic organizations offer a varied selection of food and beverages.
Tyler
An Evening of Alton Brown
Nov. 14
Cowan Center , 3900 University Blvd.
Food, science, and comedy come together for an entertaining evening with television personality, author, and culinary personality Alton Brown. Expect a lively mix of storytelling, culinary curiosity and the trademark humor that has made Brown a household name.
Kerrville
Holiday Lighted Parade, Courthouse Lighting Ceremony, and Merry on the Square
Nov. 21
Kerr County Courthouse, 700 Main St.
Officially welcome the holiday season with a lighted parade and the arrival of Santa Claus on his signature fire truck. The parade commences at the corner of G Street Bridge and Water Street and ends at the Kerr County Courthouse. After the parade, enjoy vendors, live music, food trucks, and the lighting of the Courthouse and a 45-foot-tall tree.
Bryan
Jingle Bell Sip and Stroll
Nov. 21
Downtown, 105 S. Main St.
Sip and shop your way through historic downtown Bryan during this annual event that benefits Voices for Children.
Clute
Elizabethan Madrigal Feast
Nov. 27-29, Dec. 4-6, 10-12
Center for the Arts and Sciences, 400 College Blvd.
Flood your senses with the majesty and pageantry befitting the court of Queen Elizabeth I at this holiday feast. Join the Earl of Warwick and his royal guests in the main hall of his castle for an exquisite meal and entertainment provided by the court’s troupe of players, dancers, and singers.
Georgetown
Coffee and Cocoa Crawl
Nov. 28
Georgetown Square, 502 S. Main St.
In conjunction with Small Business Saturday, holiday shoppers are invited to kick off the season with tastings of coffee and cocoa while supporting local businesses.
Nacogdoches
Wassail Fest
Nov. 28
Downtown, 200 E. Main St.
Sip festive holiday wassail as you explore downtown shops.
Wimberley
EmilyAnn Trail of Lights
Nov. 28-Dec. 26
EmilyAnn Theatre and Gardens, 1101 FM 2325
The trail of lights is a walking trail through approximately 8 acres of festive, lighted exhibits, featuring live entertainment, hot cocoa, and Santa Claus. Free to attend but donations are graciously accepted.
Bonham
Downtown Christmas Tree Lighting
Nov. 28
Downtown, 101 E. Sam Rayburn Drive
Don’t miss this show as the switch is flipped to light up the beautiful 30-foot-tall Christmas tree, bringing holiday magic back to downtown Bonham. Get your teams together for the S’Mores Cookoff also happening in the evening.
Abilene
Winter Lightfest
Nov. 28-Dec. 27
Abilene Field of Dreams, 2250 E.N. 10th St.
Winter Lightfest features a 3/4-mile paved walking path that takes visitors through nearly 3 million lights. Enjoy photo ops, meeting Santa, a scavenger hunt, hot chocolate, s’mores, and other festivities.
Columbus
Ladies Night Out
Dec. 3
Stafford Opera House, 425 Spring St.
Held on the first Thursday of December, Ladies Night Out is an evening of shopping, wine, food, fun, and music in Columbus. Businesses offer in-store specials, door prizes, snacks, wine sampling, and live music.
Denison
Tree Lighting, Christmas Parade, and Hot Cocoa Competition
Dec. 3
Downtown , 324 W. Main St.
Start the holidays with live music and a community countdown as Denison’s Christmas tree lights up for the season. Stick around to visit Santa, taste entries in the Chamber of Commerce’s Hot Cocoa Competition, and watch the 92nd annual Christmas Parade.
Marble Falls
Candles and Charcuterie : A Holiday Candle Making Experience
Dec. 3
The Retreat Ranch, 1643 CR 403
Retreat Ranch hosts this festive two-hour adventure where guests handcraft their very own holiday-scented soy candles while indulging in a delicious spread of meats, cheeses, crackers, and desserts. Feel free to bring a favorite bottle of beverage from home.
visitmarblefalls.org/event/candles-%26-charcuterie-%3a-a-holiday-candle-making-experience/1344
Luling
Cookies and Carols
Dec. 4
Luling Main Street, East Davis Street
Cookies and Carols is a downtown cookie baking competition between participating downtown business owners. Visitors get to vote for their favorite cookie recipe and are entered into a drawing for door prizes. Festivities include live performances, downtown shuttle hayrides, a visit from Santa Claus, and Christmas carolers from Luling High School, churches, and other organizations.
Bonham
Holiday Parade
Dec. 4
Downtown, 101 E. Sam Rayburn Drive
Enjoy a holiday night to remember as magical floats and community entries make their way around downtown Bonham. The parade begins after hot cocoa is served, with sales benefiting local nonprofits.
Paris
Texas Barbecue Blowout
Dec. 4-5
Love Civic Center, 2025 S. Collegiate Drive
The Texas Barbecue Blowout is an annual barbecue cookoff with live concerts, a kids cookoff, and community food tasting to raise money for local scholarships.
Bonham
Holiday Wine Stroll and Taste of Bonham
Dec. 5
Downtown , 327 N. Main St.
Experience the magic of the season by enjoying wine, sampling delicious local cuisine, and soaking up the festive atmosphere at shops and downtown boutiques.
Victoria
Crossroads Pickle Festival
Dec. 5
Victoria Community Center, 2905 E. North St.
This one-of-a-kind festival brings together local businesses, performers, organizations, families, and community members while supporting local youth, foster families, group homes, scholarships, and other community initiatives throughout the Crossroads. Shop the Pickle Patch Marketplace featuring local boutiques, makers, farmers market vendors, handmade goods, gifts, specialty products, and plenty of pickle-inspired finds. Compete in a pickle-eating competition, pickle recipe competition, the Pickle Pageant, and more. Enjoy musicians, dancers, singers, comedians, cultural performers, and spoken-word artists.
Elgin
Holiday by the Tracks
Dec. 5
Veteran’s Memorial Park, 109 Depot St.
Downtown Elgin welcomes the holiday season with a family-friendly celebration featuring a Christmas Bazaar, the annual Hot Cocoa Stroll, shopping, music, and an evening lighted Christmas parade. Visitors can shop from local artisans, makers, food vendors, and small businesses while enjoying holiday activities throughout downtown. For the Hot Cocoa Stroll, participants receive a passport and map directing them to participating cocoa stops. Tickets include a commemorative mug, cocoa samples, and the opportunity to vote for the best cocoa. Additional festivities include face painting, live music, a raffle, and Santa appearances.
Plano
Shopping Days: Christmas Edition
Dec. 5
Plano Event Center, 2000 Convention Center Blvd.
Shop small and support local businesses this holiday at this community-driven vendor market featuring small boutiques, handmade goods, unique finds, gourmet and specialty foods, live music, and giveaways.
events.visitplano.com/event/shopping-days-christmas-edition-2026
Bandera
Market Day
Dec. 5
On the first Saturday of the month, arts and crafts vendors set up pop-up shops featuring original works along Main Street, while farmers sell produce, canned goods, and baked items.
Marble Falls
Breakfast with Santa
Dec. 5
Lakeside Pavillion, 305 Buena Vista Drive
Breakfast with Santa brings the magic of Christmas morning to life in Marble Falls, with holiday music, crafts for kids, and plenty of Christmas spirit. Families are invited to enjoy a hot breakfast, share special moments with Santa, and capture festive photos.
Very Merry Movie Mile
Dec. 5
Lakeside Park, 305 Buena Vista Drive
Stroll the Walkway of Lights and return to Johnson Park for family-friendly holiday fun, including a hot cocoa bar, s’mores, ornament decorating, local beverages, and Christmas movies playing throughout the evening.
Houston
Make a Joyful Noise!
Dec. 10
Padre’s Wine Bar, 3522 White Oak Drive
Make A Joyful Noise! returns for an evening of fun creativity at Padre’s Wine Bar, inviting guests to sip, mingle, and explore their musical side through ROCO’s Instrument Petting Zoo for adults. Led by ROCO musicians, the event offers hands-on experiences with orchestral instruments in a relaxed, no-pressure setting, paired with a variety of wines and tasty bites.
Kilgore
Drive-Through Nativity
Dec. 10-13
Forest Home Baptist Church, 15746 CR 173 North
Experience the Christmas story at the Forest Home Baptist Church Drive-Through Nativity, featuring more than 150 cast members across 13 scenes, including the Nativity, the Shepherds, and a biblical marketplace. There’s also Santa’s Workshop to visit. This free East Texas tradition runs in the evening and includes complimentary hot chocolate.
Cedar Park
A Jolly, Bright Lakeline Night
Dec. 11
Lakeline Park, 1510 Alexis Drive
This joyful celebration features twinkling lights, family-friendly activities, holiday music, warm treats, Santa’s arrival, and timeless holiday cheer. Bundle up, bring your holiday cheer, and join a night with festivities that include the Frosty Winter Fun, pictures with Santa, food and beverage vendors, a holiday market, and the Sip and Stroll presented by Always Fun Market.
Bastrop
Bastrop County Historical Society’s Rendezvous
Dec. 11
Bastrop Convention Center, 1408 Chestnut St.
Rendezvous is the Bastrop County Historical Society’s most glamorous event of the year, bringing together history, holiday cheer, and a little bit of indulgence for one unforgettable evening. Dress up, raise a glass, enjoy delicious seasonal food and drinks, and spend the evening surrounded by friends who believe local history is worth preserving. There’s a raffle and an auction as well.
bastropcountyhistoricalsociety.com/event-details-registration/rendezvous
Corsicana
Mimosas at the Market
Dec. 12, Jan. 9, Feb. 13
Downtown , Beaton Street
Every second Saturday in historical downtown Corsicana, participating shops and businesses offer complimentary mimosas to customers at a variety of stops.
Pipe Creek
Pancakes with Santa
Dec. 12
Al’s Hideaway, 299 Willow Springs Drive
Bring the family to Al’s Hideaway Cabin and RV Rentals for pancakes and pictures with Santa. This event is held every Saturday morning after Thanksgiving and up to Christmas.
Boerne
Storytime with Mrs. Claus
Dec. 19
Tapatio Springs Hill Country Resort, 1 Resort Way
Cozy up with cookies and milk as Mrs. Claus shares beloved Christmas classics, then help the little ones write their letters to Santa. Parents can relax and enjoy favorites from the La Cascada menu along with a festive classic Christmas cocktail.
tapatiosprings.com/tec-events/category/children-family/page/2
Cedar Park
Polar Plunge
Jan. 1
Veterans Memorial Pool, 2525 New Hope Drive
Kick off the new year by taking a dip in the dive well at Veterans Memorial Pool. Line up for a trip down the drop slide, or jump off the dive platform, then warm up with a hot cocoa bar afterwards. This event is for ages 12 and older. Register to participate.
Bandera
Market Day
Jan. 2
On the first Saturday of the month, arts and crafts vendors set up pop-up shops featuring original works along Main Street, while farmers sell produce, canned goods, and baked items.
Plano
Hot Cake Hustle
Jan. 9
Red Tail Pavilion, 2801 E. Spring Creek Parkway
Start your 2027 racing season with a 10K, 5K, or fun run that offers a flapjack-filled finish. This event winds through the scenic trails of Oak Point Nature Preserve. After crossing the finish line, stick around for a stacked after-party featuring hotcakes, coffee, hot chocolate, and ice-cold beer.
Rockport
La Mardi Gras
Jan. 13-14
Lamar Volunteer Fire Dept, 302 Bois D’arc
Celebrate Mardi Gras with local flare that benefits the Lamar Volunteer Fire Department. The party starts Friday evening and goes all day Saturday. Festivities include a parade, live music, cold beer, themed food, auctions, and casinos.
Galveston
Yaga’s Chili Quest, Beers, and Cheers
Jan. 16
Galveston Historic Strand District, 2314 The Strand
Kick off the ultimate weekend of flavor and fun in Galveston’s historic Strand District with this action-packed festival featuring everything from championship chili cookoffs and public tastings to an indoor beer and spirits fest. The weekend also gets moving with the Beerfoot Beer Run 5K, inviting participants to log some morning miles and balance out the festival indulgence before diving into a full day of great food, drinks, and coastal entertainment.
Brenham
Uptown Swirl, Downtown Brenham
Jan. 16
Downtown
This wine walk event lets visitors experience unique shops while sipping and sampling wines from around the world.
Port Aransas
Restaurant Weeks
Jan. 16-26
Various locations
Take a break from the sand and surf to dive into the island’s unique local culture. There’s no ticket purchase necessary, simply select the prix-fixe menus that catch your eye and enjoy all the delicious dishes this island has to offer.
Grand Prairie
Lunar New Year
Jan. 22-26, 29-31; Feb. 6-7
Asia Times Square, 2625 W. Pioneer Parkway
Asia Times Square hosts its annual Lunar New Year celebration. Enjoy live cultural performances, food vendors and merchants, and firecrackers.
Jefferson
Queen Mab Ball
Jan. 23
Jefferson Visitor Center, 305 E. Austin St.
Enjoy a festive evening filled with food, live music, dancing, Mardi Gras costumes and beads, and the crowning of the 2027 Mardi Gras King and Queen.
Rockport
Winter Texan Appreciation Day
Jan. 27
Fulton Convention Center, 402 N. Fulton Beach Road
Winter Texans are encouraged to stop by for refreshments, collect info from local businesses, learn about local attractions, grab a bite to eat, and enjoy live entertainment, food, and games at local RV parks.
Bandera
11th Street Mardi Gras
Jan. 28-30
11th Street Cowboy Bar, 307 11th St.
Join the fun at the 11th Street Cowboy Bar’s annual Mardi Gras celebration that includes Cajun food and live zydeco music.
Mardi Gras Gumbo Cookoff
Jan. 30
11th and Cypress streets, 307 11th St.
Enjoy tasting all the gumbos during the Mardi Gras Gumbo Cookoff. Ticket sales start at 11 a.m. in front of the 11th Street Cowboy Bar.
Denison
North Texas Coffee Fest
Jan. 30
410 Niche Coffee and Shop, 410 W. Main St.
Coffee shops and vendors from across Texas take over downtown for a full-scale coffee crawl. Entry is free, drinks are sold separately, and a live DJ keeps things going at Niche Coffee and Shop.
Port Arthur
Mardi Gras
Feb. 5-7
Downtown , Procter Street
Mardi Gras Port Arthur celebrates the season in the official Cajun Capital of Texas. Inspired by the rich heritage of Mardi Gras celebrations along the Gulf Coast and in Southeast Texas, Mardi Gras Port Arthur is creating a vibrant new tradition filled with colorful parades, live music, delicious food, family-friendly activities, and the warm hospitality that defines our region.
Jefferson
Mardi Gras
Feb. 5-7
Various locations, Downtown
The Krewe of Hebe presents this year’s Jefferson Mardi Gras, with a whole weekend of festivities including parades, live music, food, vendors, a carnival, frosty beverages, masks, and beads.
Amarillo
First Friday Art Walk
Feb. 5
Arts in the Sunset, 3701 Plains Blvd.
First Friday is a free, kid-friendly event held the first Friday evening of every month. Come and go as you please, and enjoy music, food trucks, and artwork from local artists.
Grapevine
Bacon and Sausage Making Workshop
Feb. 6
Nash Farm, 626 Ball St.
In this hands-on workshop you’ll learn the traditional skills behind making bacon and sausage, then create your own to take home. Come ready to roll up your sleeves, learn a time-honored craft, and feed your family for a fraction of the store-bought price.
Bandera
Market Day
Feb. 6
On the first Saturday of the month, arts and crafts vendors set up pop-up shops featuring original works along Main Street, while farmers sell produce, canned goods, and baked items.
Surfside Beach
Marathon
Feb. 6
Stahlman Park, 2211 Bluewater Highway
Surfside Beach Marathon offers something for everyone, with marathon, half-marathon, 5K, and kids K distances. A post-run party includes Texas barbecue, drinks, and games. The race starts as the sun rises over the water and follows the public beach to San Luis Pass, then returns. The entire course is on the firm, smooth sand that is great for running.
Grapevine
Pie Making and Supper at the Farm
Feb. 12
Nash Farm, 626 Ball St.
Spend an evening at Nash Farm learning the art of pie making before gathering around the table for a hearty supper prepared on the historic wood-fired stove. Come solo, bring a date, or gather a few friends for a relaxed evening of good food, conversation, and farmhouse hospitality.
Boerne
Chocolate Walk
Feb. 12-13
Hill Country Mile, 100 N. Main St.
This sweet event takes participants on a stroll through historical downtown Boerne. Collect a special chocolate treat as you step inside each participating store, gallery, and restaurant along Main Street. Once you’ve visited all the stores, you can return your raffle ticket for a chance to win prizes donated by the store owners.
Port Aransas
Chocolate Crawl and Shoparound
Feb. 12
Various locations
Celebrate Valentine’s Day early by shopping at local boutiques and shops to find outfits for the holiday or a gift for that special someone. Starting late afternoon, shoppers are treated to beverages and a wide assortment of chocolate goodies throughout the evening.
Yoakum
Land of Leather Days
Feb. 19-20
Downtown , 100 Block of West Grand Avenue
Celebrate Yoakum’s leather heritage with Land of Leather Days. A chili cookoff holds contests for chili, beans, people’s choice, bloody marys, and margaritas. There are arts and craft vendors, food vendors, a carnival, and live entertainment.
Luling
American Legion Chili and Barbecue Cookoff
Feb. 26-27
Luling American Legion Post #177, 215 E. Davis St.
Join the Luling American Legion Post #177 for this Tolbert-sanctioned chili and bean cookoff and barbecue cookoff. Celebrate two days of food, fun, and festivities. Bring your best recipes and compete in chili, beans, ribs and brisket, the open-meat category, margaritas, and bloody marys.