A note regarding COVID-19
Kerrville
“Stars, Stripes, and States”
June 1-Sept. 12
Museum of Western Art, 1550 Bandera Highway
This special outdoor exhibit features all 50 state flags and the 26 flags that have flown under the United States banner since 1776. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday.
New Braunfels
Hollydays Market
Sept. 4-6
New Braunfels Convention/Civic Center, 375 S. Castell Ave.
Shop over 130 local vendors and crafters featuring handmade gifts, boutique clothing, fall décor, home accents, specialty foods, and early holiday finds. It’s the perfect way to kick off the season and get a head start on your festive events.
Granbury
Labor Day Weekend Celebration
Sept. 4-6
Granbury Square, 201 E. Pearl St.
Celebrate the end of summer with a fun-filled Labor Day weekend in the heart of Granbury. Four days of fun include live music, unique vendors, shopping, and food.
South Padre Island
Labor Day Fireworks
Sept. 6
South Padre Island Entertainment District, 211 W. Whiting St.
Labor Day is known as the end of summer, so why not end it with a bang? South Padre Island hosts fireworks to celebrate the three-day weekend of nonstop fun in the sun.
Plano
Labor Day Pool Party
Sept. 7
The Texas Pool, 901 Springbrook Drive
Celebrate the last days of summer with a Labor Day pool party. Play traditional pool games and enter the cannonball contest for prizes. There’s a snack bar, barbecue grills, and picnic areas. Coolers with food and nonalcoholic beverages are welcome. Take one last swim across Texas in 2026.
El Campo
Freedom Fest
Sept. 11-13
El Campo Lost Lagoon, 665 CR 451
Close out the summer at Lost Lagoon during the sixth annual Freedom Fest, a high-energy weekend packed with live music, lagoon fun, and red-white-and-blue vibes to wrap up the season in style.
Marshall
Rüeggenfest
Sept. 12
Rueggenbach Brewing Co, 108 W. Houston St.
The brick streets of downtown Marshall transform into a Bavarian-style festival village for Rüeggenfest, East Texas’ own Oktoberfest-inspired celebration, where small-town Texas hospitality meets Old-World tradition. The festival fills the heart of Marshall with craft beer, live music, artisan vendors, traditional games, family activities, and the aromas of smoked meats, pretzels, and fresh-baked pastries drifting through the streets. The biergarten has German-inspired lagers, seasonal festival beers, and special one-day releases brewed exclusively for the event. Expect stein-holding competitions, yodeling, costume contests, dachshund races, shopping, demonstrations, a kids area, and food vendors.
Freeport
“Haunted Tales of the Gulf Coast”
Sept. 12-Oct. 30
Freeport Historical Museum, 311 E. Park Ave.
Experience this exhibition about local ghost stories and Freeport’s spookiest places.
Grapevine
Harvest Wine Train
Sept. 17
Grapevine Vintage Railroad, 705 S. Main St.
Experience the flavors of fall onboard the Harvest Wine Train. This seasonal event features a vintage train ride paired with Texas wines, curated with autumn flavors. Enjoy the warmth of a harvest celebration while sipping locally sourced varietals.
Rockport
HummerBird Celebration
Sept. 17-20
Rockport Fulton Visitor Center, 319 Broadway
The 38th annual Rockport-Fulton HummerBird Celebration offers programs with speakers, birding trips, hummer home bus tours, and shopping.
Beaumont
Bucktoberfest
Sept. 19
Buckstin Brewing Co., 6280 Phelan Blvd.
Bucktoberfest is a free, family-friendly Oktoberfest celebration hosted by Buckstin Brewing Co., blending traditional German beer hall culture with southeast Texas hospitality. Expect Oktoberfest food, a ceremonial cask tapping, live entertainment, a steinholding competition, a wurst-eating contest, and an Oktoberfest costume contest showcasing lederhosen and dirndls. There’s also a kids area.
Fort Worth
Oktoberfest
Sept. 24-26
Trinity Park, Entrance near Van Zandt Cottage across from Farrington Field
Enjoy more than 50 German polka party band and traditional performances on three stages. Thursday’s ceremonial “tapping of the kegs” kicks off the fun and the festival continues through Saturday with Oktoberfest Olympics, carnival rides, dachshund races, a brat eating contest, bier barrel rolling, stein hoist competitions, and a 5K. This year’s lineup includes Grammy-nominated Alex Meixner Band, Das Ist Lustig, Alpenmusikanten, Walburg Boys, Lederhosen Junkies, and returning all the way from Bavaria, the Happy Hour Oktoberfestband. Traditional German food including bratwursts, pretzels, strudel, currywurst, schnitzel, and German potato pancakes. Festivalgoers can enjoy entertainment in the air-conditioned Paulaner Festzelt, Van Zandt Zelt, and multiple shaded biergartens. Shopping vendors are on hand in the Marktplatz.
Austin
Banger’s Oktoberfest
Sept. 25-27
Banger’s Sausage House and Beer Garden, 79 Rainey St.
Banger’s Sausage House and Beer Garden, home to Austin’s widest selection of handmade sausages and craft beer, celebrates Oktoberfest with German-influenced food, beer, and live music.
Fairfield
Santa in September
Sept. 26
W.L. Moody Reunion Fairgrounds, 839 E. Commerce St.
Santa in September brings a little early holiday cheer to the community. Visit with Santa to kick off the season of giving in a cheerful way. It’s a great September surprise for kids.
Pilot Point
Oktoberfest
Sept. 26
Pilot Point Square, 55 Washington St.
From family-friendly activities like dachshund races and petting zoos to stein hoisting and costume contests, Oktoberfest honors the German roots that Pilot Point was founded on.
Grapevine
Harvest Moon Supper
Sept. 26
Historic Nash Farm, 626 Ball St.
Step back in time with a moonlit fundraiser dinner in the pasture at Historic Nash Farm, where guests enjoy wine and a select menu inspired by historical harvest-time cuisine.
Oktoberfest Craft Brew Train
Oct. 2
Grapevine Vintage Railroad, 705 S. Main St.
Celebrate Oktoberfest with a festive excursion onboard Grapevine Vintage Railroad featuring a curated lineup of seasonal craft brews from local Texas breweries. Enjoy bold German-themed brews, served alongside hearty small bites that complement the flavors of the season.
grapevinetexasusa.com/event/oktoberfest-craft-brew-train/41479/
Austin
Boo at the Zoo
Oct. 2-24
Austin Zoo, 10808 Rawhide Trail
Bring the kids in full costume to Boo at the Zoo, where they can experience the Austin Zoo in a whole new way: in the dark. Train rides, musical entertainment, and unlimited haunted house visits are also included in the fun.
Fredericksburg
Oktoberfest
Oct. 2-4
Marktplatz, 126 W. Main St.
One of Fredericksburg’s annual festivals brings a little bit of Bavaria to the Hill Country. Three days of singing, toasting, dancing, and “gemutlichkeit” (friendliness) is featured at the 46th Oktoberfest. Expect food, a waltz contest, artisans, a polka contest, and dirndle and lederhosen contests.
Bastrop
Día de Los Muertos Ofrendas
Oct. 2-Nov. 2
Bastrop County Museum and Visitor Center, 904 Main St.
Celebrate Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), a time-honored Mexican tradition that honors and remembers loved ones who have passed. Visitors can view beautiful altars (ofrendas) created by local families, each decorated with photos, candles, marigolds, favorite foods, and other meaningful items while learning about the many traditions behind this powerful holiday. The Museum also hosts a special community altar, and all are welcome to contribute by adding a photo or memento in remembrance of someone special.
bastropcountyhistoricalsociety.com/event-details-registration/dia-de-los-muertos-exhibit-1
Granbury
Oktoberfest
Oct. 2-4
Granbury Square, 201. E. Pearl St.
Grab your lederhosen and dirndls and celebrate this German tradition in the Granbury Square with vendors located on the Plaza, Bridge Street, and Crockett. Expect shopping, dancing, and treats.
Pipe Creek
Pipe Creek Pumpkin Patch
Oct. 2-31
Pipe Creek Tree Farm, 805 Phil’s Road
Open Saturdays and Sundays, the pumpkin patch includes a haystack, hop ball, scarecrow dressing, visits with farm animals, a large sandbox, rubber duck races, and pumpkin painting.
Winnsboro
Autumn Trails Antique Tractor Pull
Oct. 3
Jack Cross Pavillion, Winnsboro City Park, 915 Wheeler Drive
Come see antique tractors show what they’re made of in this tractor pull and show, one of several events taking place during Winnsboro annual Autumn Trails festival.
Autumn Trails 5K Run and .05 Run
Oct. 3
Winnsboro City Park, 900 Wheeler Drive
The Autumn Trails 5K Run, sponsored by the Interact Club of Winnsboro High School, welcomes all runners and walkers. The .05K Fun Run is literally a distance of 164 feet and half an inch, with various age brackets. The entry fee is canned food to benefit the Winnsboro Resource Center.
Little Miss and Queen Autumn Trails Pageant
Oct. 3
Winnsboro Jr. High School Auditorium , 409 Newsome St.
See the crowning of Little Miss Autumn Trails (4-6 years old), and Queen Autumn Trails (14-18 years old). The event begins at 6 p.m. at the Winnsboro Jr. High Auditorium.
Denison
Fall Festival
Oct. 3
Downtown , Main Street
Downtown Denison’s Fall Festival welcomes the season with family-friendly activities, shopping, entertainment, seasonal treats, hundreds of vendors, and festive fun for all ages in the heart of Main Street.
Bonham
Autumn in Bonham
Oct. 3
Floyd Community Center, 1100 W. Fifth St.
Locals and visitors are invited to enjoy a full day of festivities complete with DJ entertainment, family activities, and shopping from a variety of local businesses and vendors. Bicyclists hit the road in the morning and return to the festival grounds throughout the day. Attendees can cheer them on as they cross the finish line.
West Columbia
Hoggtoberfest
Oct. 3
Varner Hogg Plantation State Historic Site, 1702 N. 13th St.
Celebrate the season and learn about harvest time on a 1800s plantation. The event includes hayrides, crafts, sugar cane, and storytelling.
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.
Brenham
Christmas Magic
Oct. 6-8
Giddings Stone Mansion, 2203 Century Circle
The exterior and interior rooms of the 1870s Giddings Stone Mansion feature different holiday themes. Saturday, there’s a luncheon at the Mansion, reservations required.
Kilgore
Oktoberfest
Oct. 10
Downtown , 201 S. Kilgore St.
This annual Oktoberfest is a family-friendly, authentic German experience with German-inspired food, live music by the Royal Klobasneks, and traditional drinking activities. Come dressed for the occasion in a drindl or lederhosen and enter the Best Dressed competition. Be sure to visit the beer garden near the Texan Theater.
Winnsboro
Autumn Trails Stew Cookoff and Cake and Pie Contest
Oct. 10
Winnsboro Civic Center, 915 Wheeler Drive
Teams and individuals participate in the stew cookoff. The baking contest is open to bakers of all ages, amateur and novice bakers only, and categories are fruit pies, nut pies, cream pies, and the youth category. There’s also a bake sale.
Plano
North Texas Pride “Come As You Are” Festival
Oct. 10
Saigling House, 902 E. 16th St.
Family fun meets a worthy cause. This event is dedicated to supporting the mission of establishing a much-needed resource center for communities north of Highway 635. Additionally, a portion of the proceeds benefit a partnering nonprofit organization. Experience a vibrant atmosphere with sponsor/vendor booths, food and beverages, giveaways, and a variety of activities for both adults and children. Enjoy live music and dancing to keep the energy high throughout the day.
events.visitplano.com/event/copy-of-2025-north-texas-pride-come-as-you-are-festival
Tyler
Mayhem Roller Derby Halloween Mashup
Oct. 10
Flores Center, 11237 FM 14
The Halloween Mashup brings fast-paced, competitive roller derby to Tyler. Costumes are encouraged. BYOB. Come enjoy the mayhem.
Victoria
Victoria Symphony: Symphonic Spooktacular
Oct. 15
Victoria Fine Arts Center, 1002 Sam Houston Drive
Join the Victoria Symphony Orchestra and special guests for this family-friendly Halloween concert featuring fun and spooky music accompanied by special guests. Be sure to wear your costume.
Corsicana
Witches Night Out
Oct. 15
Downtown , Beaton Street
Witches Night Out is a downtown shopping event featuring raffles and a costume contest. Attendees are encouraged to dress up and enjoy a festive evening of shopping and fun.
Winnsboro
Autumn Trails Trail Riders Welcome Parade
Oct. 16
Water tower, 1501 E. Broadway St.
This afternoon parade starts at the city water tower and travels 2.3 miles through historical Winnsboro. It includes horses, mules, and wagons of all types.
Plano
Hollydays Market
Oct. 18
Plano Events Center, 2000 E. Spring Creek Parkway
Shop over 130 local vendor and crafter booths featuring handmade gifts, boutique clothing, fall décor, Christmas decorations, home accents, specialty foods, and one-of-a-kind finds. Complete your Christmas shopping in one convenient location while supporting small businesses from across Texas.
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.
Autumn Trails 42 Tournament
Oct. 17
Winnsboro Civic Center, 915 Wheeler Drive
Play in this fun 42 tournament. Arrive a little early if you would like to participate. There is a $25 entry fee per player. Prizes are awarded.
Autumn Trails Mule Rodeo and Barn Dance
Oct. 17
Winnsboro Rodeo Association Arena and Civic Center, 967 Wheeler Drive, 915 Wheeler Drive
See participants compete in this annual family-friendly mule rodeo, where different contests, such as barrel racing, involve mules. The boot scootin’ begins following the rodeo and continues until midnight. DJ Damon Momon gets everyone on the dance floor for an evening full of two-steppin’.
Freeport
Ghost Stories
Oct. 17
Freeport Historical Museum, 311 E. Park Ave.
Things get spooky at the Freeport Historical Museum at this event showcasing ghost stories and local legends.
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.
Magic and Mischief at the Museum
Oct. 17
Santa Fe Depot , 315 W. Ave. B
Calling all witches, wizards, and seasoned sorcerers. Step into a spellbinding world of magic and mischief inside the Santa Fe Depot. This immersive event is full of crafts and fun for the whole family. Costumes encouraged.
templeparks.com/facilities___rentals/temple_railroad___heritage_museum
Grand Prairie
Flight of the Monarch
Oct. 17
EpicCentral, 2961 SH 161
Join this day celebrating the annual monarch butterfly migration. This event offers a variety of family-friendly activities and has become a beloved tradition, drawing thousands to Grand Prairie. Experience the wonder of nature and a day filled with music, dance, and storytelling.
Austin
Halloween Children’s Concert
Oct. 18
Long Center for the Performing Arts, 701 W. Riverside Drive
Austin Symphony Orchestra takes a daring voyage into pirate territory for this annual family favorite. Navigate the treacherous seas of pirate fears and delights as manifested in short works of beloved orchestral music. There’s a costume contest, so come dressed as your favorite character, ghost, or goblin.
Amarillo
Trail of 1,000 Jack-O-Lanterns
Oct. 21-24
Amarillo Botanical Gardens , 1400 Streit Drive
See the Amarillo Botanical Gardens in a whole new light with 1,000 lit-up jack-o-lanterns.
Winnsboro
Autumn Trails Trade Day and Swap Meet
Oct. 22-25
Winnsboro City Park, 900 Wheeler Drive
Vendors sell the kinds of unique merchandise and one-of-a-kind items you expect at a trade day, flea market, and swap meet.
Port Aransas
Harvest Moon Regatta
Oct. 22-24
Roberts Point Park, 301 JC Barr Blvd.
The regatta has been hosted by Lakewood Yacht Club every year since 1987. The offshore race begins in Galveston and ends with a party in Port Aransas. Whether you are new to offshore sailing, a seasoned cruiser, a serious racer, or a spectator, Harvest Moon has something for everyone.
Corsicana
Boo on the Block
Oct. 22
Downtown , Beaton Street
Boo on the Block is a family-friendly Halloween event featuring trick-or-treating, costumes, and festive activities throughout downtown.
Lewisville
Little Monsters On Main
Oct. 24
Old Town Lewisville, 151 W. Church St.
Main Street in Old Town Lewisville is transforming into the ultimate Halloween playground, packed with trick-or-treating at your favorite local shops, bouncy inflatable attractions, and haunted hay rides (if you are feeling brave). Enjoy strolling street performers lurking at every corner, all leading up to a cozy outdoor movie under the stars.
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.
Llano
Llano River Pumpkin Float
Oct. 24
Badu City Park , 300 Legion Drive
Bring your carved pumpkins and enjoy the evening float and glow as you see lots of carved and lit pumpkins gliding across the Llano River. Costumes are encouraged.
Grapevine
Historic Nash Farm Fall Round-up
Oct. 24
Nash Farm, 626 Ball St.
Celebrate the harvest season at the 26th annual Fall Round-Up at Nash Farm, with festive photo ops, farm animals, chuck wagon demonstrations, and hands-on heritage activities, all while supporting the farm’s educational programs.
grapevinetexasusa.com/nash-farm/events/nash-farm-fall-roundup/
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/
Boerne
Boerne Boo
Oct. 24
Patrick Heath Public Library, 451 N. Main St.
Boerne Boo is a family-friendly fall festival hosted each year around Halloween. Expect a ghastly good time enjoying arts and crafts, trick-or-treating, bounce houses, carnival games, food trucks, music, lots of candy, and prizes for costume contest winners.
Winnsboro
Autumn Trails Antique and Classic Car Parade and Show
Oct. 24
Downtown , Main Street
The parade weaves through historical downtown Winnsboro, and cars park on Main Street, where pedestrians can walk among the Model A and Model T cars and inspect these vehicles from a bygone era. Car clubs are welcome. The Classic Car Show, following the parade, is in the parking lot of the train depot.
Autumn Trails Arts and Crafts Show
Oct. 24
The Bowery, 100 Market St.
Head to the Bowery, Winnsboro’s pedestrian walkway, to find works by some of the best artisans in the region. The show features local and statewide talent.
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 “Fashion Through the Eras”
Oct. 24
Vanora Studio, 215 N. Main St.
Walk through 100-plus years of fashion at the artisan boutique Vanora Studio. The exhibit, on display after the Antique and Classic Car Parade, features a collection of vintage clothing covering the past century.
Autumn Trails Pet Show and Beard and Mustache Contest
Oct. 24
The Bowery, 100 Market St.
Come see the contestants or dress up your pooch to impress. Trophies are awarded to the winning contestants. The fun starts at noon on the Bow-wow-ery (The Bowery). Then, take a look into the art of beard and mustache crafting sponsored by The Best Barber Shop. See some of the most unique and well cared for facial hair in the region. Prizes are awarded to the winners.
Corpus Christi
Dia de los Muertos Festival
Oct. 24
Various locations, Downtown
Vibrant, heartfelt, and deeply rooted in community, this award-winning street festival features traditional ofrendas (altars), folkloric dance performances, mariachi music, art vendors, and a Walk of Remembrance. The event takes place at venues along Chaparral, Starr, Mesquite, Taylor, and Peoples streets.
Cedar Creek
Tricks, Treats, and Trails
Oct. 24
McKinney Roughs Nature Park, 1884 SH 71 West
Celebrate the fall season at LCRA Parks’ annual family-friendly event that features a trick-or-treat trail, hayrides, yard games, face painting, inflatable activities, and outdoor adventures like archery, paintball and ziplining. Guests can also enjoy food available for purchase, plus plenty of festive fun for kids, adults, and pets alike.
Wimberley
Boo! Hole Halloween
Oct. 24
Blue Hole Regional Park, 333 Blue Hole Land
This is the place to be for an evening of spine-tingling fun and family-friendly chills that’ll have everyone screaming with delight. Enjoy a trick-or-treat trail, Halloween-themed carnival games, live music, and a costume contest for a chance to win a prize.
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.
West Columbia
Ghosts Along the Brazos
Oct. 24
Varner Hogg Plantation State Historic Site, 1702 N. 13th St.
Take a spooky nighttime stroll through the woods to the plantation’s 1840s-era Patton Family Cemetery, and learn about mortality on the plantation during the 1800s and the dangers of the early Texas wilderness.
Georgetown
Downtown Candy Crawl
Oct. 25
Georgetown Square, 103 W. Seventh St.
Attend a free, family-friendly event where kids and adults alike can put on their favorite costumes and enjoy an afternoon of trick-or-treating at local businesses. It’s a fun, safe, and festive way to celebrate Halloween in the heart of Georgetown, with activities for ghosts and goblins of all ages.
Bryan
Halloweentown
Oct. 25
Downtown, 105 S. Main St.
Enjoy trick-or-treating, a costume contest, and family-friendly fun at this free annual event.
Sweetwater
Trunk or Treat
Oct. 28
Nolan County Coliseum Parking Lot, 220 Coliseum Drive
Local businesses and nonprofit organizations park and decorate their cars and hand out candy to the community.
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.
San Angelo
Fort Concho House of Horrors
Oct. 30-31
Fort Concho National Historic Landmark, 630 S. Oakes St.
A historic building turns into a scary haunted house for Halloween.
Grapevine
Bewitched by the Barn
Oct. 30
Nash Farm, 626 Ball St.
Visit historic Nash Farm in your best Halloween costume and listen to family-friendly, spooky tales of old. Stories get spookier as the night sky darkens.
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.
Victoria
Día de los Muertos Celebration
Oct. 31
The Nave Museum, 306 W. Commercial St.
Celebrate Día de los Muertos with a craft market, music, children’s fun, community “ofrendas” (offerings), and an evening procession to Memorial Square.
Bandera
Nightmare On Maple Street
Oct. 31
Bandera City Park, 1102 Maple St.
Enjoy this trunk-or-treat event that includes door prizes, costume and best trunk contests, kids activities, and other spooky fun.
Kerrville
Family Fright Night
Oct. 31
Louise Hays Park, 202 Thompson Drive
Enjoy an evening of safe and traditional family fun at the park. Activities include trick-or-treating, games, and a costume contest.
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.
Temple
Trackside Treats
Oct. 31
The Santa Fe Trail , 212 S. Main St.
Experience an evening of safe, family-friendly Halloween fun along the Santa Fe Trail and The Yard. Downtown businesses and community partners hand out treats all along the trail. Don a costume and bring a candy bucket.
Fort Worth
Margaret’s Market Boutique
Nov. 2-6
The Woman’s Club of Fort Worth , 1326 Pennsylvania Ave.
A holiday shopping event includes home décor, jewelry, women’s fashion, gourmet food, children’s items, and books.
Tyler
Mistletoe and Magic
Nov. 4-7
W.T. Brookshire Conference Center, 2000 W. Front St.
The Junior League of Tyler hosts its largest fundraiser—now in its 48th year. This beloved holiday market features 75-plus merchants from across the country offering unique gifts, gourmet treats, and festive finds. Held each November, proceeds support local projects, scholarships, and outreach programs that empower women and strengthen our community.
Amarillo
Christmas Roundup
Nov. 6-8
Amarillo Civic Center, 401 S. Buchanan St.
Shop over 100 merchants and get a head start on your holiday gift-giving at this event hosted by Amarillo Museum of Art. This celebration of the season also offers cocktails, entertainment, and door prizes.
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.
Horseshoe Bay
Bayside Bazaar
Nov. 7
Quail Point, 107 Twilight Lane
Kick off the holiday shopping season with the annual Bayside Bazaar. There are more than 20 vendors as well as the Helping Hands Craft Guild’s line of handcrafted items, a silent auction, as well as the raffle of a beautiful quilt. A fashion show of the latest holiday fashions is also featured.
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/
Kerrville
Holiday Magic
Nov. 7
Elks Lodge No. 2081, 1907 Junction Highway
The holiday market, organized by Hill Country Caring Crafters, features unique handmade craft items including autumn, Thanksgiving, and Christmas decorations, cards, and gift items.
Denison
Dia De Los Muertos Festival
Nov. 7
Downtown
Celebrate culture, remembrance, and tradition during Denison’s Dia De Los Muertos Festival, featuring live performances, colorful altars, art, food, music, and activities honoring the spirit of the holiday.
Plano
Patriot’s Run
Nov. 7
Red Tail Pavilion, 2801 E. Spring Creek Parkway
The Patriot’s Run 5K and 1-mile Fun Run takes place at the Red Tail Pavilion, Oak Point Park, home of the Plano Flags of Honor. Tentative plans include a Presentation of Colors by Allen High School MCJROTC and the Pledge of Allegiance led by Congressman Keith Self, followed by a race warm-up, the fun run, and the 5K. Wheeled participants have a five-minute head start. After the race, enjoy an awards ceremony, sponsor booths, food, music, and vendor prize giveaways.
Plano Flags of Honor
Nov. 7
Oak Point Event Field, 2801 E. Spring Creek Parkway
More than 1,000 American flags are set up in a field to express gratitude to veterans and first responders. Each flag tells the story of heroes whose lives were devoted in service to others, many of whom made the ultimate sacrifice. The display also honors family members, friends, and neighbors for their service and sacrifices. Special programs are held throughout the week to recognize the community’s heroes including programs from veterans organizations, musical performances, patriotic re-enactments, and static displays.
New Braunfels
Holidays in Gruene: Photos with Cowboy Kringle
Nov. 7-8, 14-15, 21-22, 27-29; Dec. 5-6, 12-13, 19-20
Gruene Historic District, 1601 Hunter Road
Create a lasting Christmas memory by getting pictures with Gruene’s own brand of Santa. Reserve a spot in advance for photo packages, Christmas cards, and other special order items. Photos taken Nov. 21-22 benefit a local nonprofit.
Lake Jackson
Veterans Day Parade
Nov. 11
Lake Road from Kohl’s to MacLean Park
Celebrate veterans in Brazoria County by attending this patriotic parade.
Kilgore
A Very Derrick Christmas
Nov. 12
Downtown , South Kilgore Street
One of Kilgore’s seasonal favorites, this event includes the annual lighting of the derricks ceremony, shopping at the Kris Kringle Market, along with games and activities.
Plano
‘Neath the Wreath
Nov. 12-15
Plano Events Center, 2000 E. Spring Creek Parkway
The Junior League of Collin County hosts its annual holiday gift market. The group’s largest fundraiser has raised over $5.4 million over the last 30 years. Almost 10,000 shoppers are expected, and over 125 merchants sell unique holiday and home décor, ladies clothing, accessories, gifts, jewelry, children’s items, and gourmet food. A Ladies Night Out preview party takes place on Wednesday ahead of the market.
events.visitplano.com/event/neath-the-wreath-holiday-gift-market-2026
Galveston
“The Polar Express” Train Ride
Nov. 13-Dec. 23
Galveston Railroad Museum, 2602 Santa Fe Place
“The Polar Express” adventure comes to life when the train departs for a round-trip journey to the North Pole led by a cast of talented actors. Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, passengers relive the magic of the classic story with hot chocolate, dancing chefs, and a keepsake sleigh bell and souvenir golden ticket.
Palestine
“The Polar Express” Train Ride
Nov. 13-Dec. 27
Texas State Railroad, 789 Park Road 70
Step aboard a vintage train for a magical holiday adventure. Sip on hot chocolate, enjoy cookies and festive storytelling, and journey to the North Pole, where Santa greets guests with the first gift of Christmas—a silver sleigh bell. Based on the children’s story, this train ride provides families with merry holiday memories.
Austin
A Christmas Affair
Nov. 13-22
Palmer Events Center, 900 Barton Springs Road
Come together under twinkling lights to shop, celebrate, and give back. The Junior League of Austin’s A Christmas Affair is more than a marketplace. It’s a cherished holiday tradition that celebrates the warmth of community and the joy of generosity while raising critical funds to empower women and strengthen lives across Central Texas.
Ingram
ArtMart Christmas Showcase
Nov. 13-Dec. 10
Hill Country Arts Foundation, 120 Point Theatre Road
At this holiday shopping showcase, find handmade crafts and other items by area artists.
Marble Falls
Downtown Christmas Tree Lighting
Nov. 13
Harmony Park , 215 Main St.
Celebrate the start of the holiday season with the lighting of the downtown Christmas tree at the green space in Harmony Park. The lighting happens at dusk and is followed by a screening of “The Grinch” on the lawn.
visitmarblefalls.org/event/downtown-christmas-tree-lighting/88
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.
Nacogdoches
Holiday in the Pines
Nov. 19-21
Nacogdoches County Exposition and Civic Center, 3805 NW Stallings Drive
Celebrate the season in style at this festive holiday extravaganza. With over 100 boutique vendors, find unique gifts for everyone on your list. Indulge in delicious seasonal treats, enjoy the thrill of exciting raffles, and soak up the holiday cheer with plenty of festive surprises.
visitnacogdoches.org/events/holiday-in-the-pines/6a19e311cc9724497b43d55c
Bandera
Dress Flea Market and Print Sale
Nov. 19-20
Frontier Times Museum, 510 13th St.
Kick off your Christmas shopping at the museum, where you can find gifts and a shopping experience that combines community spirit with a chance to find exceptional artifacts and treasures.
Corsicana
Tree Lighting
Nov. 19
Downtown , Beaton Street
Celebrate the start of the holiday season at Corsicana’s annual Tree Lighting. Enjoy the lighting of the 3-story-tall Christmas tree, festive entertainment, and family-friendly holiday activities.
Plano
Lights on the Farm
Nov. 20-Dec. 30
Heritage Farmstead Museum, 1900 W. 15th St.
Experience the wonder of dazzling lights and festive holiday displays as you stroll along a scenic quarter-mile path through the Heritage Farmstead Museum. Snap holiday photos, meet Santa Claus, and enjoy seasonal treats like s’mores, hot cocoa, donuts, and popcorn, all set to the sounds of joyful holiday music.
New Braunfels
Downtown Lighting and Santa’s Arrival
Nov. 20
Downtown, 500 Main Plaza
The Main Plaza in downtown New Braunfels hosts the official kickoff of the holiday season when thousands of twinkling lights are turned on and Santa makes his arrival.
Weihnachtsmarkt
Nov. 20-22
New Braunfels Civic Center/Convention Center, 375 S. Castell Ave.
Enjoy an exclusive Christmas shopping experience at Weihnachtsmarkt, a German-style Christmas market with a Texas twist. The market offers authentic German collectibles and ornaments, unique decorations, specialty items, fabulous gifts, apparel, and antiques.
Marble Falls
Walkway of Lights
Nov. 20-Jan. 2, 2027
Lakeside Park, 305 Buena Vista Drive
Take a stroll through the Christmas sculptures on Marble Falls Lake with friends and family. Santa takes Christmas wishes every Friday-Sunday until Christmas.
Bryan
Lights On!
Nov. 20
Downtown, 105 S. Main St.
Count down to light the Sale Park Christmas tree and illuminate picturesque historic downtown Bryan. This free, family-friendly event includes a variety of holiday activities, live music, and a special appearance by Santa Claus.
Luling
Arts and Crafts Show
Nov. 21
Watermelon Thump Pavilion, 319 E. Davis St.
Enjoy the large arts and crafts market with handcrafted items. Discover one-of-a-kind, handcrafted gifts and stocking stuffers that’ll make your holiday season extra special. There are also pictures with Santa, hot cocoa, coffee, lunch, and sweets.
Archer City
Texasville Opry: Very Merry Country Christmas
Nov. 21
Royal Theater, 113 E. Main St.
Very Merry Country Christmas blends traditional carols, country-style holiday hits, and warm opry charm to a joyful night filled with music, nostalgia, and Christmas spirit.
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.
Denison
Denison on Ice
Nov. 21-Jan. 3
Downtown , 111 W. Main St.
Experience the magic of winter at Denison on Ice, a seasonal outdoor ice-skating rink featuring holiday lights, themed events, festive entertainment, and affordable family fun throughout the holiday season.
Plano
Holiday Market
Nov. 21-22
Carpenter Park Recreation Center, 6701 Coit Road
This event showcases unique handcrafted holiday gifts. Exhibitors have jewelry, handmade wood items, candles and soaps. There’s also a wonderful selection of tamales, brownies, cupcakes, jams, nuts, and dips for gifts or holiday parties. In addition, Collin County seniors stock the Hip Hip for Gray booth with a variety of crafts including quilts, baby items, and ornaments.
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.
Lake Jackson
Holidays Around the World
Nov. 21
Lake Jackson Historical Museum, 249 Circle Way
Make your way around the museum as you learn about different winter holidays celebrated around the world and participate in activities and crafts to take home. Get your passport stamped in each country to be entered in a drawing to win a great prize.
Festival of Lights
Nov. 21
Doris Williams Civic Center Plaza, 333 SH 332
Kick off the holiday season with a carnival, games, a parade, entertainment, and other festivities.
Giddings
Christmas Market Sip and Shop
Nov. 22
The Silos on Hwy 77, 1031 CR 223
On the Sunday before Thanksgiving, shop the wares of various talented vendors. Crafts include woodworking, handicrafts, décor, bath and body, candles, jewelry, accessories, clothing, and tasty treats. Children can busy themselves in Santa’s Workshop until Santa arrives for a special visit.
Fort Worth
GM Financial Parade of Lights
Nov. 22
Downtown, 777 Taylor St.
The GM Financial Parade of Lights illuminates the streets of downtown Fort Worth with illuminated floats, an array of festive performers, holiday décor, live music, and hundreds of thousands of sparkling lights. Carrying on the tradition, this year’s parade concludes with a special appearance from Santa and Mrs. Claus on their finale float.
Pipe Creek
Pipe Creek Christmas Tree Farm
Nov. 23-Dec. 15
Pipe Creek Tree Farm, 805 Phil’s Road
Join us for some fun at the Pipe Creek Xmas Tree Farm. Open Take a ride or walk around the tree farm and find that unique one of a kind tree for celebrating the holiday festivties.
Lake Jackson
Monster Dash 5K
Nov. 24
MacLean Park, 91 Lake Road
Participate in this race on a certified 5K course through MacLean Park in Lake Jackson. T-shirts are given to all finishers and awards are handed out to overall male and female finishers and to the top 3 finishers in all age categories. There is also a Kids 1K. Costumes are encouraged, and expect monster-themed decorations on the course.
Kerrville
Comanche Trace 2026 5K Turkey Trot
Nov. 25
Comanche Trace, 3074 Bandera Highway
This scenic 5K through the beautiful Hill Country community is a healthy way to kick off the holidays.
Port Aransas
Turkey Trot
Nov. 25
Cinnamon Shore North, 5009 SH 361
Join the fun at Cinnamon Shore North for the Turkey and Tot Trot, featuring 10K, 5K, 2K, and 1K races. Then hang around for a fun-filled morning of food trucks, inflatables for the kids, music, lawn games, and a vendor village.
Lake Jackson
Lake Jackson Turkey Trot
Nov. 26
Lake Jackson Intermediate School, 100 Oyster Creek Drive
The Lake Jackson Turkey Trot is a 5K run/walk and 10K run held on Thanksgiving Day. This event benefits the students of the Lake Jackson Intermediate Band Program.
Grand Prairie
Prairie Lights
Nov. 26-Dec. 31
Lynn Creek Park, 5610 Lake Ridge Parkway
Grand Prairie’s premier holiday light park features more than 2 miles of lights and kicks off on Thanksgiving.
Corpus Christi
Holly-Days at the Gardens
Nov. 27-28
South Texas Botanical Gardens and Nature Center, 8545 S. Staples St.
Four special holiday weekends celebrate the splendors of the season with a beautiful 20-foot, fresh-cut lighted fir tree and a huge 18-foot recycled eco-Christmas tree made of green plastic bottles. Twinkling light displays, trees, Santa, hayrides, and photo cut-outs are on site for holiday fun.
Georgetown
Lighting of the Square
Nov. 27
Georgetown Square, 103 W. Seventh St.
Kick-off the holiday season with the annual Lighting of the Square on the Friday after Thanksgiving. Downtown holiday lights remain lit every evening through January 1st. Entertainment during the event is provided by the Uptown Carolers. Toy donations to the Georgetown Police Department Blue Santa and to Williamson County Brown Santa are encouraged.
Llano
Starry Starry Nights Lighted Christmas Park
Nov. 27-Dec. 31
Badu City Park , 300 Legion Drive
The lighted park, which opens the first Friday after Thanksgiving, lets visitors stroll along the Llano River and enjoy displays that light up Badu Park. Celebrate the season with family and friends immersed in nature.
Fredericksburg
Trade Days Holiday Encore
Nov. 27-29
Fredericksburg Trade Days, 355 Sunday Farms Lane
Shop for the holidays with over 350 vendors in seven barns and acres of antiques, collectibles, tools, crafts, shabby chic, primitives, ranch furniture, hunting accessories, candles, unique clothing, jewelry, and food. Relax in the beer garden while listening to live music.
visitfredericksburgtx.com/events/fredericksburg-trade-days-holiday-encore
Boerne
Dickens on Main
Nov. 27-28
Hill Country Mile, 100 N. Main St.
Kick off your holiday season at this annual Hill Country celebration. Boerne’s Hill Country Mile is transformed into a vintage Christmas experience, with entertainment in various holiday “villages.” Enjoy live music and performances, visits with Santa Claus, ice sculpting shows, children’s take-home crafts, and snow along Main Street. Roving musicians, carolers, and other revelers, along with brightly lit shops and restaurants, add to the delight.
Bandera
Christmas Lighting in Bandera City Park
Nov. 27
Bandera City Park, Bandera County Courthouse, 1102 Maple St., 500 Main St.
Enjoy viewing the holiday lights in the park and at the Bandera County Courthouse and lawn.
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.
Jefferson
Christmas Parade and “Enchanted Forest” Tree Lightig
Nov. 28
Downtown and Lions Park
The parade travels through downtown Jefferson to Lions Park for the “Enchanted Forest” Tree Lighting Ceremony. Gather with family and friends for Christmas carol singing, live entertainment, and the grand finale—the lighting of 100-plus decorated Christmas trees. Children can also visit with Santa after he arrives atop a fire engine.
Wimberley
Wishes for Wimberley Parade and Tree Lighting
Nov. 28
Holiday Courtyard, Wimberley Square
Kick off your holiday season at Wimberley’s Lighted Parade, where revelers line the streets of downtown in the evening and watch festive floats, marching bands, classic cars, and Santa’s sleigh sparkle under the stars.
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.
Grand Prairie
The Christmas Market
Nov. 28-Dec. 20
Traders Village, 2602 Mayfield Road
Get ready for a magical holiday experience at The Christmas Market at Traders Village, open Saturdays and Sundays. Expect festive fun as the Village transforms into a winter wonderland full of cheer and excitement.
Tyler
“Dolly Parton’s Smoky Mountain Christmas Carol”
Nov. 28
UT Tyler Cowan Center, 3900 University Blvd.
The heartwarming musical features music and lyrics by the 11-time Grammy winner and a book by David H. Bell. Set in the 1930s in the Smoky Mountains of East Tennessee, this production imagines Ebenezer Scrooge as the owner of a mining company town, where his callous greed blinds him to the joys and gifts of the season. The legendary holiday tale re-written as a new American classic features Dickens’ classic characters and Parton’s one-of-a-kind songwriting expertise.
Temple
Christmas at the Plaza
Nov. 29
Santa Fe Plaza, 315 W. Ave. B
Experience a holiday drone show as Temple counts down to the pyromusical tree-lighting production illuminating downtown. With immersive holiday magic and plenty of activities for all ages, this night is becoming a favorite Temple tradition.
Winnsboro
Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting
Dec. 3
Downtown, Market Street
Winnsboro’s annual Christmas parade and tree lighting ceremony kicks off in the evening. The parade travels from the high school, circles through downtown, and ends at The Bowery for the tree lighting.
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.
Amarillo
Center City Electric Light Parade
Dec. 4
Downtown , Polk Street, 11th to Fourth avenues
The holidays shine extra bright as colorful floats, lights, and music light up downtown Amarillo.
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.
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.
Holiday Wine Stroll
Dec. 5
Downtown Bonham, 101 E. Sam Rayburn Dr.
Stroll around downtown shops while enjoying a variety of wines from local wineries and tasty bites from local eateries. Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in the best of Bonham. There’s an after-party at Neighbors Place Winery.
Amarillo
“The Nutcracker”
Dec. 13-15
Amarillo Civic Center, 401 S. Buchanan St.
Lone Star Ballet presents the holiday classic and beloved Amarillo tradition.
Bryan
Holiday Stroll and Lighted Parade
Dec. 17
Downtown, 105 S. Main St.
Enjoy free, family-friendly holiday fun in Bryan. Stroll around historic downtown Bryan for an evening of holiday cheer and merriment during the only lighted parade in Bryan-College Station.
Fairfield
Jingle All The Way
Dec. 19
Freestone County Courthouse, 118 E. Commerce St.
Jingle All the Way is a festive community celebration filled with holiday cheer, family-friendly fun, and seasonal activities for all ages. From merry moments to bright smiles, it’s the perfect way to celebrate the season together.