Houston Botanic Garden, 1 Botanic Lane

To mark its fourth birthday, the Houston Botanic Garden presents “Habitat.” The exhibit—which incorporates installations created by local artists—explores the central idea of “protecting habitats protects life,” through the lens of the Gulf Coast environment. With thematic sections on topics such as fungi, dead wood, nests, and insects, “Habitat” explores the critical role that many organisms play in creating and sustaining habitats.

hbg.org

Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary, 1 Nature Place

Third Thursday Bird Walks are offered by Heard staff. These seasonally relevant bird walks are intended to help beginning and intermediate birders with bird spotting and identification techniques. There are also plenty of opportunities provided for participants to ask questions from experienced birders.

heardmuseum.org

The Grace Museum, 102 Cypress St.

The year 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in the United States. The Grace Museum is celebrating this momentous anniversary through an exhibition in the history gallery along with exciting programming throughout the entire year. This includes recognizing the narratives of those who lived here before the founding of the country and those who have weaved into the cultural fabric of our lives today. The exhibition highlights the stories of members of the Abilene community and the surrounding areas, integrating the history of the region into the context of the history of the rest of the country. The exhibition reflects on Abilene’s past and honors the contributions of all Americans.

thegracemuseum.org/history

The Grace Museum, 102 Cypress St.

This exhibition features large glass installations by celebrated Dallas glass artist, Carlyn Ray, with suspension and interactive elements to surprise and delight each visitor. Through this body of work, Ray explores the immersive potential of art; how light, color, and form can evoke emotion and foster deeper connection.

thegracemuseum.org/exhibitions/carlyn-ray-emergence

Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, 3200 Darnell St.

One of the most acclaimed artists of his generation, Rashid Johnson is known for his diverse practice, which spans painting, sculpture, film, and installation—all of which are included in this exhibition, the artist’s largest to date and his first major museum survey in more than a decade.

themodern.org

The Grace Museum, 102 Cypress St.

The Grace Museum presents this exhibition that highlights the early history of Abilene High School and Lincoln Middle School, both formerly located in one of Abilene’s oldest and most significant buildings. Along with narratives about the history of the site, the exhibition includes reproductions of the David S. Castle architectural drawings, historic photographs, and artifacts from the site.

thegracemuseum.org

The Grace Museum, 102 Cypress St.

In connection with The Grace Museum’s “Beginnings” exhibition, this related show highlights clothing and ephemera from Abilene-area junior high and high schools, colleges, and universities.

thegracemuseum.org

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.

allthingshamilton.org

The Menil Collection, 1533 Sul Ross St.

The Menil Collection and the Baltimore Museum of Art have co-commissioned renowned British filmmaker and artist John Akomfrah to create an immersive, multichannel video installation exploring the history of civil rights-era nonviolent protests, including the Student Non-Violent Coordinating Committee.

menil.org/exhibition/john-akomfrah-the-hour-of-the-dog

Museum of the Plains, 1200 N. Main St.

Habitats provide homes for all living things, from the tiniest ant to the tallest tree. The exhibition “Habitat” explores the critical need for varied habitats, how interconnected and fragile they are, and what we can do to protect them. The experience showcases the unique habitats throughout the gardens and landscapes of the Museum of the Plains.

museumofhteplains.com

Inspired Minds Art Center, 121 Main St.

Bring your kids to Inspired Minds Art Center for a creative break. Choose your favorite craft supplies and load them onto your tray. Find a workspace at an open table or on the grass outside, and create crafts to your liking.

eventvesta.com/events/138742/t/tickets

Crider’s Rodeo and Dancehall, 2310 SH 39

Every Saturday night from Memorial Day to Labor Day, Crider’s welcomes visitors to a rodeo followed by dancing and live music.

cridersrandd.com

Various locations, 205 E. Eighth St.

From the infamous witch trials to tragic events that still echo through Austin’s streets, guides expertly weave together the supernatural with Austin’s historical tapestry, creating an experience that leaves you both fascinated and spooked.

austinghosts.com

Various locations, 400 S. Houston St.

As night falls over Dallas, the city’s skyline gives way to whispers of a past that refuses to rest. Step into the shadows, where expert local guides lead you through streets steeped in tragedy, ambition, and restless spirits.

dallasterrors.com

Various locations, 114 W. Mills Ave.

Step into the shadows on an El Paso ghost tour, where whispered legends and documented hauntings blur together into a chilling journey through time. Led by passionate local guides who know these streets by heart, this experience invites you to uncover the darker chapters of the city’s story and the spirits many believe still roam after nightfall.

usghostadventures.com/el-paso-ghost-tour

Various locations, 131 E. Exchange Ave.

As night settles over Cowtown, Fort Worth begins to whisper its secrets. Step into a world where legends linger and history refuses to stay buried. Guided by passionate local storytellers from a women- and minority-led team, this walking tour draws you into the city’s shadowed past, where every quiet corner and flickering streetlight seems to watch you back.

usghostadventures.com/fort-worth-ghost-tour

Various locations, 2010 The Strand

Led by Galveston’s official haunted history experts, this immersive walking tour weaves real history with unsettling encounters, drawing you into a city shaped by tragedy, resilience, and whispered legends.

usghostadventures.com/galveston-ghost-tour

Various locations, 864 Congress St.

Join Houston Ghosts for tales of grisly ghost sightings that send shockwaves of adrenaline racing through your veins. Unearth the mysteries behind horrible tragedies, gruesome deaths, and the spectral energy left behind on the most haunted Houston ghost tour.

usghostadventures.com/houston-ghost-tour

Various locations, 1000 Zaragoza St.

Step into the shadows on a ghost tour in Laredo, where history and hauntings intertwine on a chilling walking journey through the city’s oldest streets.

usghostadventures.com/laredo-ghost-tour

Various locations, 126 W. Commerce St.

As night settles over San Antonio and the city’s oldest streets fall quiet, the past begins to whisper. Step into the darkness on a ghost tour in San Antonio, where centuries of triumph, tragedy, and unrest come alive through chilling storytelling. Led by expert local guides, this walking tour invites you to slow your pace and listen closely as history unfolds around you.

usghostadventures.com/san-antonio-ghost-tour

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.

museumofwesternart.com

Flying L Ranch and Resort, 675 Flying L Drive

Tuesdays through Saturdays, visitors can sit by the campfire and roast marshmallows while enjoying entertainment by a cowboy under the Texas stars. Also, enjoy taking a wagon ride to feed the deer, visit Ghost Town, or watch the running of the horses.

flyingl.com

11th Street Cowboy Bar, 307 11th St.

On Wednesday nights, bring your own choice of meat, cook it on a Texas-size barbecue pit, and receive a bake potato, salad, and a roll with admission. Then feast while listening to live country music.

11thstcowboybar.com

Major Hope Corral, 749 Old Medina Highway

Every Sunday, visitors can enjoy a cowboy breakfast and a morning horseback ride with Bandera Historical Rides.

banderahistoricalrides.com

Museum of the Southwest, 1705 W. Missouri Ave.

Texas sculptor Ken Womack debuts “Giant,” his first-ever solo exhibition inspired by the 1956 George Stevens film of the same name. The exhibition features 25 large-scale sculptures drawn from several years of studio production, including a number of never-before-exhibited pieces that span the full range of Womack’s practice. His work features American consumer products on a monumental scale with the materials left visible, all built from plywood, acrylic, pool noodles, and discarded cable spools. The exposed nature of each piece denies any critique of the object, leaving it to the audience to interpret.

museumsw.org/ken-womack

Grapevine Convention and Visitors Bureau, 636 S. Main St.

Step into Dinosaur Quest, a walk-through maze adventure where curiosity leads the way and every turn reveals a new discovery. Uncover fossils and facts about dinosaurs as you live large in reptilian role-play activities, undertake three Mesozoic missions spanning 150 million years, and mimic dinosaur behavior.

grapevinetexasusa.com/event/be-the-dinosaur-exhibit-at-tower-gallery/41271

African American Museum, Dallas, 3536 Grand Ave.

Marking its debut in Texas, “Mandela: The Official Exhibition” explores the life of one of the world’s most recognizable champions of freedom and justice—whose vision of justice, service and reconciliation continues to inspire people around the globe. Presented in partnership with the city of Dallas, the exhibition serves as both a cultural anchor and welcoming destination for international visitors during World Cup “Fan Fest” activities at Fair Park and the Cotton Bowl Stadium. The exhibition spans all four galleries and unfolds through multisensory experiences, tracing Nelson Mandela’s extraordinary journey from his rural childhood in the Eastern Cape to his decades of resistance against apartheid and his election as South Africa’s first democratically elected president. His journey to becoming the “Father of South Africa” and a globally revered figure is presented in personal and revealing ways. Through his own reflections and stories shared by his family and those who knew him best, visitors see Mandela—respectfully called Madiba—in a new light. One gallery is transformed into a fully immersive, multimedia environment that places visitors within defining chapters of Mandela’s life. Guests encounter rarely seen films, photographs and personal artifacts on loan from the Mandela family, as well as museums and archives worldwide, illuminating the people, places, and pivotal experiences that shaped one of the 20th century’s most remarkable leaders.

aamdallas.org

The AgriCultural Museum and Arts Center, 102 City Park Road

Bring your instrument and play along, or just come to listen to musicians perform at the Bluegrass Jam.

theagricultural.org

Kuhlmann-King Museum, 402 E. Blanco Road

The Kuhlmann-King house gives the public the opportunity to step back in time to see what a historic Boerne home looked like “way back when.” Monthly events and themes vary.

bahpsboerne.org

Old Jail Museum, 208 E. San Antonio Ave.

The Kendall County Historic Jail, constructed in 1887, served for a century as the county jail. The Friends of the Kendall County Historic Jail have restored the space, bringing it back to life as a one-of-a-kind museum of the county’s history. 

facebook.com/kchistoricjail

The Nave Museum, 306 W. Commercial St.

Experience the works of Texas artist Stan Irvin. Irvin specializes in altered, wheel-thrown vessel forms and printing on clay. He uses his vessels as a vehicle for the expression of form and ideas, to create an informal dialogue between the art and its viewers.

navemuseum.org

Cadillac Dance Hall, 1375 FM 1855

On the last Saturday of the month, house band Eddie Shell and the Not Guilties perform. Dance the night away on the hardwood floors of an authentic Texas dance hall. You might see kids dancing across the dance floor, a dog or two running around loose, and probably a few cattle and horses gathered around the entrance.

visitmarblefalls.org/listing/cadillac-dance-hall/111

Cibolo Center for Conservation, 140 City Park Road

Moondance is a longstanding, beloved tradition at the Cibolo. Grab your lawn chairs, coolers, and friends, and come enjoy live music from local bands under the oak trees. This summer, the center welcomes back favorite music groups and food trucks from past Moondances, as well as new ones.

cibolo.org/moondance

Hill Country Arts Foundation, 120 Point Theatre Road

The Hill Country Arts Foundation hosts its annual juried art show, open to all mediums and ranging from the most traditional to the most conceptual or experimental.

hcaf.com

ArtCentre of Plano, 902 E. 16th St.

Marking its fifth year, this signature exhibition celebrates the breadth and creativity of sculpture being made across Texas.

artcentreofplano.org

Art Museum of Southeast Texas , 500 Main St.

In celebration of the museum’s 75th anniversary, this exhibition highlights the second half of the Art Museum of Southeast Texas’ legacy of nearly eight decades of community, culture, creativity, and connection. The exhibition chronicles the museum’s commitment to exhibiting contemporary artists of Texas and the region, and offers visitors the opportunity to view some of the museum’s most notable acquisitions, including Mexican folk art from the John Gaston Fairey collection and works by notable Texas artists such as José Villalobos, Earlie Hudnall Jr., Teresa Baker, Paul Manes, John Alexander, James Watkins, James Surls, and Tom Jean Webb.

amset.org

Kerr Arts and Cultural Center, 228 Earl Garrett St.

Three separate art shows are on display: paintings by Tassie Marceaux, the Kerrville Art Club Show and Sale, and Hill Country Camera Club annual judged exhibit.

kacckerrville.com

Rattlesnake Ridge, 126 SH 16 South

On Saturdays, see the Bandera Gunfighters reenact 1800s gunfights twice a day at Rattlesnake Ridge, located behind the Bandera Visitors Center.

facebook.com/banderagunfighters

Every Saturday, enjoy free cowboy fun in downtown Bandera with activities such as chuckwagon storytelling, horse-drawn wagon tours around Bandera, and live Western music performances.

banderabusiness.com

Herff Farm, 33 Herff Road

This Saturday farmers market on the historical Herff Farm offers hikes on trails, shopping in the open air, gardening inspiration, and classes on growing your food. Guests can help the Cibolo Center for Conservation maintain the land through volunteer service projects, or get new recipe ideas.

cibolo.org/locations/herff-farm

Center for the Arts and Sciences, 400 College Blvd.

A 30-foot dome equipped with a Spitz Star Ball projector, along with a large variety of other high-tech equipment, produces the night sky as it appears to the naked eye. The show gives audiences a close-up look at comets, exploding stars, and black holes.

brazosportcenter.org

Boerne Farmers Market, 402 E. Blanco Road

Late afternoon on Tuesdays, this market goes beyond the traditional shopping experience. Come out and explore the bounty offered by local farmers and growers, homesteaders, ranchers, and artisans, and enjoy the dynamic atmosphere of the market.

boernefm.com

Georgetown Art Center, 816 S. Main St

“Texture and Time: Digital Impressionism Meets Geometric Abstraction in Glass and Tile” is series of works that stretches the materiality of mosaics from repurposed shards of stained glass and vitreous tile to Mexican Talavera and fine Turkish marble. Contemporary mosaic motifs are upended by graffiti scrawls and striking portraiture of urban art icons.” An opening reception takes place on Aug. 8, followed by a talk with artist J. Muzacz on Aug. 9.

visit.georgetown.org/georgetown_art_center/gallery_schedule/papers.php

Bastrop County Museum and Visitor Center, 304 Cold Spring Loop

The Bastrop County Historical Society hosts “Soul Circuit: Juneteenth Rodeos in Texas,” a traveling exhibition from Humanities Texas about the African American rodeo network of small town rodeos that carried on the heritage of Black cowboys in America, including right here in Bastrop County. Don’t miss this superb exhibit about one of Texas’s most cherished traditions.

bastropcountyhistoricalsociety.com/event-details-registration/soul-circuit-juneteenth-rodeos-in-texas

Hill Country Community Theatre, 4004 W. FM 2147

Hill Country Community Theatre presents this definitive spoof of Gothic melodramas and a fast‑paced, quick‑change marathon where two actors take on a wild array of roles—including a lovelorn werewolf, a mysterious vampire, and an ancient Egyptian princess awakened from her tomb. Recently revived off‑Broadway to rave reviews, this outrageously funny satire is packed with clever wordplay, over‑the‑top antics, and non‑stop surprises.

thehcct.org

Moody Center, 2001 Robert Dedman Drive

When professional bull riders compete on teams, the excitement level produced by the thrilling man-versus-beast matchups PBR is known for becomes even more intense. Bull riding games bring fans two hours of heart-pounding, edge-of-your-seat athletic competition in an atmosphere that provides fun, high-energy family entertainment.

ticketmaster.com/austin-gamblers-tickets/artist/3101664

Sunday Farms, 355 Sunday Farms Lane

Shop more than 350 vendors in seven barns and acres of antiques, collectibles, tools, crafts, shabby chic, primitives, ranch furniture, hunting accessories, candles, unique clothing, jewelry, food, and other items. Relax in the beer garden while listening to live music.

fbgtradedays.com

Martha Knies Park, 111 Old Kyle Road

Discover the incredible world of bats and learn about their vital role in our ecosystem and ways to help protect them for future generations. After the lesson, stick around for a guided bat watch to see these amazing creatures take flight.

wimberleyparksandrec.com/bat-watch

Cibolo Center for Conservation, 140 City Park Road

Hit the trails at sunset for a night hike. These hikes are focused on nocturnal wildlife viewing, so hikers can expect longer hikes, using unfamiliar trails, and spending time without the use of flashlights. These hikes are hands-on, engaging, and fun for mature teens and adults.

cibolo.org/night-hikes

Downtown, Congress Avenue

Celebrated during Austin Pride Month each August, don’t miss this giant parade down Congress Avenue during the largest annual LGBTQI advocacy and fundraising event in Central Texas.

austinpride.org/event/pride-2026

Georgetown Art Center, 816 S. Main St

Participate in a masterclass artist workshop by artist J Muzacz, a mosaic artist and muralist based in Austin and director of The Mosaic Workshop community mural projects and studio.

visit.georgetown.org/georgetown_art_center/gallery_schedule/papers.php

Koenig Park, 1700 San Jacinto St.

As has happened for the last 143 years, the famed St. Louis Day celebration opens the gates to visitors from all over the state. Tons of barbecued beef, Alsatian-style sausage and other foods, drinks, music, games, and fun all day long have kept this tradition going for over a century.

saintlouisday.com

Frontier Times Museum, 510 13th St.

The Frontier Times Museum presents this jamboree on the fourth Sunday of each month. The event includes live music, storytelling, and fun for all ages.

frontiertimesmuseum.org

Frontier Times Museum, 510 13th St.

The Frontier Times Museum presents a fun-filled day where kids and adults can learn about the history of Bandera’s local cowboys.

frontiertimesmuseum.org

Gillespie County Fairgrounds and Exhibition Hall, 530 Fair Drive

The oldest continuous county fair in Texas celebrates its 138th year. Held over the course of four days, it includes two days of pari-mutuel horse racing, livestock shows, agricultural exhibits, a carnival and midway, household exhibits, arts and crafts, an antique tractor show, 42 domino tournament, and live music.

gillespiefair.com

Kerr Arts and Cultural Center, 228 Earl Garrett St.

Three separate art shows are on display: paintings by Keith Stinnett, landscape and nature photography by Phil Stapleton and Frank Klein, and the center’s annual judged membership show.

kacckerrville.com

McKinney Cotton Mill, 610 Elm St.

Summer ArtFest transforms the Cotton Mill into a destination for art lovers, gift seekers, and weekend explorers. More than 70 artists showcase original work including fine art, artist-made silver and gold jewelry, studio ceramics, fiber art, woodwork, photography, and more—all handmade and thoughtfully curated. Summer ArtFest is fully indoors, and on-site food and beverages are available.

millhousefoundation.org/artfest

Palace Theatre, 125 W. Collin St.

The Bellamy Brothers have celebrated more than 40 years making country hits together. Enjoy signature songs like “Let Your Love Flow” and “Redneck Girl” and unforgettable energy live on stage.

corsicanapalace.com

Sunset Strip Comedy Club, 214 E. Sixth St., Unit C

The Big Texas Comedy Showcase features a high-energy lineup of Austin’s funniest comedians and special guests delivering sharp, uncensored stand-up.

eventvesta.com/events/156020/t/tickets

Bass Performance Hall, 330 E. Fourth St., Suite 200

Conducted by Eric Roth, this concert features an immersive performance which brings together the power of a full orchestra and chorus, the intensity of original NieR vocalists Nique Nicole and Emi Evans, stunning visuals on a giant screen, and a new narrated story, inviting you into an expanded musical world of the NieR series.

access.fwsymphony.org/5944/5986

Pearsall Park, 4838 Old Pearsall Road

This summer race is the perfect chance to challenge yourself, enjoy creative swag, and be part of an encouraging, affordable, and inclusive community. Races include a 5K, 10K, and 15K, plus a 1-mile run and a kid’s run.

runsignup.com/race/tx/sanantonio/summersizzlersanantonio

The Long Center for the Performing Arts, 701 W. Riverside Drive

The annual Oita Japan Summer Festival is a vibrant celebration of Japanese culture and the sister city relationship between Austin and Oita, Japan. Hosted by the Austin-Oita Sister City Committee, this family-friendly event brings the sights, sounds, and flavors of Japan to Austin, featuring authentic food and drinks, live performances, cultural demonstrations like tea ceremonies and calligraphy, and a curated marketplace of unique goods. Guests of all ages can enjoy interactive activities, connect with the community, and experience the rich traditions and contemporary culture of Japan.

austinoita.org/2026-oita-japan-festival

Sunset Strip Comedy Club, 214 E. Sixth St., Unit C

Sunset Sundays features a curated lineup of Austin’s funniest comics delivering tight, high-energy stand-up.

sunsetstripatx.com/events

Boerne Farmers Market, 402 E. Blanco Road

This weekly market goes beyond the traditional shopping experience. Come and explore the bounty of local farmers and growers, homesteaders, ranchers, and artisans, and enjoy the dynamic atmosphere of the market.

boernefm.com

Kerr Arts and Cultural Center, 228 Earl Garrett St.

This month’s exhibits at the Kerr Arts and Cultural Center feature paintings by Robert Behan and Doreen Shann, works by Aurora Joleen Aristry, and a group show by the Magnificent Seven Artists.

kacckerrville.com

Hill Country Arts Foundation, 120 Point Theatre Road

Hill Country Arts Foundation presents a gourd art show along with artwork from Master Naturalists.

hcaf.com

Museum of Western Art, 1550 Bandera Highway

See this exhibit featuring award-winning American artist Adrienne Stein’s paintings, which celebrate the natural world through bold, vibrant color.

museumofwesternart.com

Center for the Arts and Sciences, 400 College Blvd.

A 30-foot dome equipped with a Spitz Star Ball projector along with a variety of other high-tech equipment produces the night sky as it appears to the naked eye. The show gives audiences a close-up feel for comets, exploding stars, and black holes.

brazosportcenter.org

The Navarro County Farmers Market brings fresh produce, fruits, jams, honey, baked goods, and more to downtown Corsicana every Tuesday and Saturday from 7 a.m. to noon or sell out. Shop local and enjoy seasonal offerings from area growers and vendors throughout the fall season.

visitcorsicana.com

Globe Theatre , 132 W. Vaughan St.

Honky Tonk Wednesday is a free night of music featuring a different artist each first Wednesday of the month. Performers this season: Tumbleweed Hill Band, the Steel Belts, and the Merles.

visitmarblefalls.org/event/honky-tonk-wednesday/327

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.

firstmondaycanton.com

Gruene Hall, 1281 Gruene Road

Texas’ oldest dance hall presents this music series spotlighting country artists on the rise. The shows give a platform to the next generation of Texas talent—artists who are building momentum and ready to make their mark. All performances are free, open to all ages, and benefit the SIMS Foundation, a nonprofit providing mental health and substance use recovery services to musicians, music industry professionals, and their families.

gruenehall.com

Downtown

The First Friday Farmer and Artisan Market is an open-air market with local artisans and crafts, cottage food, and retail vendors.

downtownbrenham.com

Georgetown Square, 103 W. Seventh St.

Every month on the first Friday from April through November, the Georgetown square comes alive with live music and after-hours shopping.

visit.georgetown.org

Grapevine Main Station, 815 S. Main St.

Enjoy unforgettable evenings of live music under the stars during these complimentary fall concerts. Bring your own chairs and enjoy the vibes on Peace Plaza.

grapevinetexasusa.com

Circuit of The Americas, 9201 Circuit of the Americas Blvd

Don’t miss the Lone Star Le Mans when it returns to Austin for the sixth and only North American race in the official World Endurance Championship season. Witness the greatest lineup of horsepower featuring world-class brands including Ferrari, Porsche, and McLaren.

circuitoftheamericas.com/event/fia-world-endurance-championship

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.

homefortheholidaysgiftmarket.com/new-braunfels-hollydays

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.

granburysquare.com/annual-festivals-events

Cibolo Center for Conservation, 140 City Park Road

Hit the trails at sunset and discover the various living organisms that call the Cibolo home. Family Night Hikes are great ways for children and families to explore the Cibolo and see what lives in the park in the dark.

cibolo.org/night-hikes

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.

texassaltco.com

Various locations, Downtown

Experience the diverse creativity of Jefferson. Stroll the streets and businesses of historic downtown, listen to live music at various locations, and meet and mingle with some of the inspiring local artists showing their work.

facebook.com/p/jefferson-texas-art-walk-61561264580533/

Eisenhower Birthplace State Historic Site, 609 S. Lamar Ave.

Celebrate Denison’s connection to President Dwight D. Eisenhower during Ike’s History Fest, a community event featuring historical presentations, family activities, reenactors, and educational experiences honoring the life and legacy of America’s 34th president and first who was born in Texas.

thc.texas.gov/historic-sites/eisenhower-birthplace

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.

gruenehall.com

Wimberley Lions Field, 601 FM 2325

Held on the first Saturday of each month from March through December, Wimberley Market Days is one of the largest and most beloved outdoor markets in the Texas Hill Country. Set beneath the shade of towering oak trees, the event features nearly 500 vendor booths offering antiques, handmade goods, art, jewelry, clothing, plants, and unique vintage finds. Visitors can enjoy live music at three stages, 10 distinct food concessions, and a small-town atmosphere.

wimberleymarketday.com

Slaton Bakery, 109 S. Ninth St.

Held Labor Day weekend in downtown Slaton, this family-friendly event features live music, local vendors, and delicious food. Purchase a Puddin’ Pass to sample four unique pudding flavors, including three takes on Slaton Bakery’s famous banana pudding and one special rotating flavor. The festival is free to attend, and a portion of Pass sales benefits local charities.

events.ticketleap.com/tickets/slaton-bakery/2026-texas-banana-pudding-festival

Paris Farmers and Artisan Market, 400 SW First St.

Lots of vendors line up at the farmers market to roast and sell hatch chiles fresh from New Mexico. Vendors also sell their locally grown produce, pastries, breads, jewelry, and coffee. The event showcases mariachi bands, games, and handmade treasures.

visitparistexas.com/hatch-chili-fest

Lost Pines Art Center, 1204 Chestnut St.

Enjoy hundreds of original works of art, live music, and complimentary refreshments in a beautiful gallery. September’s event features the new members showcase as well as the curated show for fired arts.

lostpinesartcenter.org/events

Pilot Point Square, 55 Washington St.

This festival features classic and modern car shows, live music, vendors, a silent auction to benefit first responders, kids’ activities, and the tug of war between Pilot Point Police Department and Pilot Point Fire Department.

visitpilotpoint.org/events/chromefest

Austin PBS Pfluger Keller Soundstage Theatre, 6101 Highland Campus Drive, Building 3000

The fourth annual Austin Women in Jazz Festival brings nationally acclaimed jazz artists Gerald Albright, Jazmin Ghent, Althea Rene, Kayla Waters, and Pamela Hart to Austin PBS for an unforgettable Labor Day Weekend celebration of live jazz, culture, and community.

womeninjazz.ludus.com

Congress Ave Bridge, 100 S. Congress Ave.

Celebrate this batty event as the world’s largest urban bat colony takes flight. Spectators can see bats take to the skies for their nightly flight, and enjoy live music, children’s activities, and family fun.

roadwayevents.com/event/bat-fest

Various locations

The Front Fest is an end-of-summer festival featuring performances, films, and creative experiences curated by Future Front. Hosted annually in Austin, Future Front puts Texas women and LGBTQ+ creatives of all kinds at the front of their lineups.

thefrontfest.com

Grapevine Vintage Railroad, 705 S. Main St.

This three-part journey goes from the top of the Observation Tower to a guided stroll through the 1888 Cotton Belt Train Depot and a 90-minute excursion on Grapevine Vintage Railroad, followed by a chartered ride on the Grapevine visitors shuttle.

grapevinetexasusa.com/event/planes-and-trains-guided-tour/41394/

Pioneer Museum, 325 W. Main St.

On the Friday before the first Saturday of the month, the Pioneer Museum and the Vereins Kirche Museum offer guests the opportunity to explore a temporary exhibit in the museum store, demonstrations (spinner, handwerker, and blacksmithing), the Frontier Company Interpretive Living Historians, a family hands-on activity, and a scavenger hunt for Frederick Burger.

pioneermuseum.org/event-details/first-weekend-at-the-museum-2026-09-05-10-00

Marktplatz, 126 W. Main St.

Redbud Artisan Market, now in the 10th year, is an art and fine craft show, featuring the handcrafted work of over 50 Texas artisans. Works include paintings, woodworking, jewelry, glass art, and photography. There’s live music and free admission, as always.

visitfredericksburgtx.com/events/redbud-artisan-market

Five Points Plaza, 100 S. Broadway St.

Discover one-of-a-kind items at Main Street Trade Days, held on the first Saturday of every month in downtown La Porte. This open-air market is a treasure trove for those seeking unique handmade and homemade goods, and a wide variety of collectibles, all surrounded by Main Street.

visitlaportetx.com

Pete P. Gallego Center, 400 N. Harrison St.

Shop for guns and knives at this event, hosted by the Alpine Lions Club. All federal, state, and local firearm ordinances and laws must be obeyed.

Herff Farm, 33 Herff Road

At this open-air farmers market, open every Saturday on the historic Herff Farm, visitors can shop, hike the trails, get gardening inspiration, take classes on growing food, help the Cibolo Center for Conservation maintain the land through volunteer service projects, and get new recipe ideas.

cibolo.org/locations/herff-farm

Hill Country Mile, 100 N. Main St.

Once a month, shops and boutiques stay open late and have exclusive discounts, special offers, and plenty of chances to discover something new. Stroll down the Hill Country Mile, enjoy live music, and soak up the fun, welcoming atmosphere.

theboernelife.com

Rattlesnake Ridge, 126 SH 16 South

On Saturdays, see the Bandera Gunfighters reenact 1800s gunfights twice a day at Rattlesnake Ridge, located behind the Bandera Visitors Center.

facebook.com/banderagunfighters

Every Saturday, enjoy free cowboy fun in downtown Bandera with activities such as chuckwagon storytelling, horse-drawn wagon tours around Bandera, and live Western music performances.

banderabusiness.com

Bandera honors its cowboy and Western heritage with an annual Longhorn cattle drive and parade down Main Street. The event also offers arts and crafts vendors on the courthouse lawn.

banderachamber.com

Mansfield Park Arena, 2886 SH 16 North

Experience two exciting nights of rodeo action, including a women’s ranch rodeo and a men’s ranch rodeo, plus mutton bustin’ for the kids.

banderaprorodeo.org

Hill Country Youth Event Center, 3785 SH 27

Market Days features original handcrafted items from artists and crafters, while the Hill Country Swap Meet is a community garage sale/flea market.

kerrmarketdays.org

Downtown , 321 W. Main St.

Sip and stroll through downtown Denison during the T.V. Munson Wine Walk, where guests can sample wines at participating businesses while celebrating the legacy of Denison horticulturist T.V. Munson, whose work helped save the French wine industry.

Haggard Park, 901 E. 15th St.

Experience an evening of magic and reflection. Check in, receive a lantern kit, and step into a vibrant festival atmosphere filled with live music, food, and activities. Personalize the lantern with a message or intention, and take time to share meaningful moments with others. At sunset, lanterns are released across the water in a powerful shared moment.

events.visitplano.com/event/water-lantern-festival-2026

Abner Jackson Plantation Site, FM 2004 near State Highway 332

Visit the historical archeological site of Maj. Abner Jackson, the namesake of the city of Lake Jackson. Once a prosperous sugar plantation, the site was destroyed by the same hurricane that devastated Galveston in 1900. Learn about the sugar-making process of the 1840s and how convict labor replaced slave labor during the 1870s.

ljhistory.org

Palmilla Beach Resort and Golf Community, 132 Palmilla Beach Drive

Enjoy a Labor Day concert featuring Django Walker, the son of Jerry Jeff Walker who delivers laid-back Gulf Coast grooves and timeless songwriting. Headlining the show is Sundance Head, the winner of Season 11 of “The Voice” under Blake Shelton. His music fuses soulful, blues-driven country with a commanding stage presence. No coolers or outside beverages are allowed.

palmillabeach.com/summer-concert-series

Grand Prairie City Hall, 300 W. Main St.

This event is a big dill. Visit downtown for a pickle-themed spectacular with pickle-centric vendors on-site with snacks, beer, and items featuring everyone’s favorite sour snack.

gptx.org

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.

visitsouthpadreIsland.com/events

Billy Bob’s Texas, 2520 Rodeo Plaza

The sixth annual Banding Together for Kids Benefit Concert supports Masonic Children and Family Services of Texas, helping kids across the state access therapies, medical care, dental care, and basic human needs they need to thrive. Headlining is The Band of Heathens, alongside The Wilder Blue.

billybobstexas.com/events

Cave Without a Name , 325 Kreutzberg Road

Axiom Quartet returns to perform “Stories in Three,” which takes audiences on a journey through the world of the waltz. Having performed countless times at a variety of venues, the quartet has won over critics and fans alike. The group turns classical fans onto popular music while serving as advocates for classical music to contemporary music fans.

cavewithoutaname.com

Major Hope Corral, 749 Old Medina Highway

Every Sunday, join Bandera Historical Rides for a cowboy breakfast and a morning horseback ride.

banderahistoricalrides.com

DFW Toy and Car Museum, 2550 McMillan Parkway

See a classic car show that’s free and open to the public.

ddrockinrods.com

Buddy Holly Center, 1801 Crickets Ave.

Celebrate music legend Buddy Holly’s 90th birthday. Admission is free, and there’s live music, kids activities, a guided gallery tour, documentary viewing, tours of the historic J.I. Allison House, and light refreshments.

buddyhollycenter.org

Grapevine Vintage Railroad, 705 S. Main St.

Step back in time with a nostalgic ride on the Grapevine Vintage Railroad. Choose from two routes: the round-trip Cotton Belt Route that goes to the Fort Worth Stockyards, and the Trinity River Train Excursion that leaves from the stockyards and goes through Fort Worth to Trinity Park and back.

grapevinetexasusa.com/event/labor-day-train/41732/

Oak Point Recreation Center, 6000 Jupiter Road

The Blackland Triathlon and its youth triathlon are Labor Day traditions. The family-friendly, fun race day includes a sprint triathlon, sprint aquabike, sprint aquathlon, euathlon, the Try a Tri+ Youth Tri, and Splash and Dash. It all ends with a Labor Day picnic.

events.visitplano.com/event/blackland-triathlon-2026

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.

events.visitplano.com/event/labor-day-party-2026

Bishop Arts Theatre Center, 215 S. Tyler St.

“Portalgraphs” is a musical about Beverly, a spirited grandmother, and her sassy granddaughter. On the day of her husband’s funeral, a photo album becomes a time machine, transporting them into key moments of Beverly’s life. As they jump through memories, what starts as a trip down memory lane becomes a powerful lesson: when you truly live in the moment, time doesn’t just fly—it stands still.

bishopartstheatre.org

Expo Center of Taylor County, 1700 SH 36

At the West Texas Fair and Rodeo, find a plethora of delicious foods, a carnival with rides, two nights of tractor pulling, five nights of PRCA rodeo action, the best livestock from across Texas, and world-class entertainment.

westtexasfairrodeo.com

Palmer Events Center, 900 Barton Springs Road

The psychedelic music and art festival is a four-day weekend of music that brings art to Austin’s diverse Red River Cultural District and east-side venues and art spaces.

levitation.fm/pages/levitation-2025

Menil Drawing Institute, 1412 W. Main St.

The Menil Collection has commissioned Jitish Kallat to create the eighth installment of the Menil Drawing Institute’s ephemeral Wall Drawing Series. Born in Mumbai where he continues to live and work, Kallat is a leading figure in contemporary Indian art. His work often probes the intersections of the intimate and the immense, weaving together references to history, science, philosophy, and the cosmic scale of time.

menil.org

Menil Drawing Institute, 1412 W. Main St.

The exhibition highlights paper—and its incongruous and variable characteristics—as an artistic material. Included in the show are works that present a range of processes, as well as paper sculptures and found papers that imbue a finished work with an additional sense of history and place.

menil.org

Lakeside Pavilion, 305 Buena Vista Drive

Taste of the Town is an unforgettable evening celebrating the very best of local flavor and flair. The night is filled with delicious food samples from local favorites, unlimited beverages, unique shopping vendors, and a live auction.

business.marblefalls.org/chamber-events/Details/taste-of-the-town-1716366?sourceTypeId=Website

Warehouse Living Arts Center, 119 W. Sixth Ave.

The Warehouse Living Arts Center presents this moving drama by Anne Nelson that follows a fire captain and writer as they honor firefighters lost on 9/11. This heartfelt production marks the 25th anniversary of the attacks with a powerful story of remembrance and resilience.

thewlac.com

Penfold Theatre Company, 2120 N. Mays St., Suite 290

It’s a dark and stormy night, and this cast of oddball characters has been invited to a very unusual dinner party. Each of the guests has an alias, the butler offers a variety of weapons, and the host is, well, dead. So, whodunit? Join the iconic oddballs known as Scarlet, Plum, White, Green, Peacock, and Mustard as they race to find the murderer in Boddy Manor before the body count stacks up.

penfoldtheatre.org/on-stage/26-27

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.

eclostlagoon.com

Red River Valley Fairgrounds, 570 Rita Haynes Blvd.

A family-friendly festival brings hot air balloon glows and tethered balloon rides (weather permitting), two bands each night, food trucks, a kids area, 50+ vendors with an array of items to sell, monster truck rides, helicopter rides, and a 5K run.

parisballoonandmusicfestival.com

Jim’s Pier, 209 N. Whiting St.

Anglers compete for cash prizes targeting wahoo, blackfin tuna, and dorado in this thrilling summer tournament.

visitsouthpadreisland.com/events

Downtown, 400 S. Main St.

The annual Fall Festival includes vendors, food, a car show, truck show, tractor show, and a street dance. The All School Reunion starts on Friday evening.

quanahchamber.com

Washington County Expo, 1305 E. Blue Bell Road

At the “Oldest County Fair in Texas,” visitors can expect shows, rodeos, music, and fun entertainment for the whole family. There’s also a carnival, crafts, food, livestock, commercial exhibits, and other attractions.

washingtoncofair.com

Texas State Railroad, 789 Park Road 70

Embark on an enchanting Piney Woods ride with dinner beneath the stars. Indulge in appetizers, a champagne or cider toast, dessert, and refreshments.

texasstaterailroad.net

Victoria Community Center, 2905 E. North St.

Enjoy a weekend of anime, comics, sci-fi, gaming, and cosplay.

facebook.com/victoriafanfest

Downtown, 200 E. Main St.

The biggest and baddest rigs are on display. This family-friendly event features an exciting display of big rigs, show trucks, and custom semis, all polished to perfection, plus live music and food vendors.

visitnacogdoches.org/old-town-rig-down

Center for the Arts and Sciences, 400 College Blvd.

Enjoy this stage production featuring a collection of songs, dances, and comedic sketches.

brazosportcenter.org

Lone Star Park, 1000 Lone Star Parkway

The fall season at Lone Star Park features quarter-horse racing. Come see the horses race past you.

lonestarpark.com

Rose City Comedy Club, 7428 Old Jacksonville Highway, Suite 10

Matthew Broussard’s comedy is heady, self-effacing, and weirdly educational. He’s performed on the “Tonight Show,” Conan, “Jeff Ross Presents Roast Battle,” and the “Comedy Central Half Hour.” You can catch him on “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” “The League,” “The Mindy Project,” and alongside Billy Crystal and Tiffany Haddish in the film “Here Today.” He is the creator of the webcomic and puzzle app, Monday Punday.

rosecitycomedy.club

Tyler Civic Theatre, 400 Rose Park Drive

“The Velveteen Rabbit” by Margery Williams Bianco is an staged adaptation of the classic children’s book written in the early 20th century. This beloved tale follows the journey of a stuffed rabbit made of velveteen and explores themes of love, reality, and the nature of being through the eyes of toys.

Freestone County Courthouse, 118 E. Commerce St.

The Show of Wheels Car Show brings classic, custom, and modern vehicles together for an exciting day of automotive fun. Enjoy a showcase of polished rides, live entertainment, local vendors, and family-friendly activities as car enthusiasts and the community come together to celebrate all things on wheels.

fairfieldtexaschamber.com

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.

rueggenbach.com/rueggenfest

Various locations

Enjoy learning about early education in Gillespie County. The Friends of Gillespie County Country Schools, a nonprofit organization focused on the preservation of 12 one-room schoolhouses built in and around Fredericksburg between 1881 and 1936, hosts open houses from March through October. This month, the featured schools are Cherry Spring, Williams Creek (Albert), and Crabapple.

historicschools.org

Love Civic Center, 2025 S. Collegiate Drive

Get ready to shine at Girls Night Out, a magical evening where golden vibes meet good times,”all in support of the Rotary Club of Paris. Tickets include a charcuterie box, bingo supplies for 10 rounds of bingo and a chance to win a designer purse, music, photo-ops, raffle prizes, and giveaways.

visitparistexas.com/girls-night-out-purse-bingo

Downtown , Culbertson Fountain

Salsa on the Square spotlights Hispanic and Latino culture, music, dance, food, and arts during Hispanic Heritage Month.

visitparistexas.com/salsa-on-the-square-3

The Rail Yard, 971 W. Kaufman St.

This live music event offers multiple bands, food vendors, a live auction, and activities with proceeds benefitting children with critical or terminal illnesses.

juddspicnic.com

Norbuck Park, 200 N. Buckner Blvd.

Get ready for the ultimate summer challenge with flat half marathon, 10K, and 5K courses. Afterwards, celebrate your victory at an after party. Stay cool with cold drinks, ice-cold towels, and of course, ice-cold beer at the finish line.

runproject.org/too-hot-to-handle-race

Downtown

Step back in time and stroll through Chappell Hill viewing a plethora of quilts. Grandma’s attic full of quilts are all hanging in Chappell Hill for the day. Some quilts are available for sale.

chappellhilltx.com

John L. Kuykendall Events Center , 2200 RR 152

Show your support for the Llano County 4-H and FFA Youth and savor a distinctive dinner. You can taste alligator, aoudad, axis, blackbuck, elk, frog legs, quail, and white-tail deer. There are also auctions and raffles.

llanowildgamedinner.com

Convention Center Plaza , 1 Civic Center Plaza

Join the El Paso community in celebrating the bigger and better than ever Vivamos Mexico: Official Grito in downtown El Paso. This free event celebrates Mexican Independence Day and honors the history of the region with one bi-national fiesta.

visitelpaso.com/vivamos

Robert A. “Bob Bowers” Civic Center , 3401 Cultural Center Drive

Food, music, and folkloric dancing highlight a day of pageants and celebration.

visitportarthurtx.com

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.

dgagtx.org/market-days

Hays County Historic Courthouse , 111 E. San Antonio St.

Art Squared Arts Market is a juried arts and fine crafts market that brings the best local artists together in one place. You’ll find great art of all kinds, live music, a kids arts and crafts booth, and live art demonstrations.

artsquaredmarket.com

Historic Nash Farm, 626 Ball St.

Experience the largest show of premier Italian automobiles in the Southwest. More than 90 modern and classic vehicles are expected to be on display at the 22nd annual festival.

grapevinetexasusa.com/event/22nd-annual-italiancarfest/41312/

Hill Country Galleria, 12700 Hill Country Blvd.

This juried festival attracts hundreds of local and national artisans offering original handcrafted creations in a variety of mediums, from metal, wood, fiber, clay, leather, glass, and stone to repurposed materials of all kinds. There are nearly 50 musical acts across three stages, 30 food vendors throughout the festival, and kids activities.

pecanstreetfestival.org

Palace Arts Center, 300 S. Main St.

See the tribute act that honors the legendary Chicago. The Chicago Xperience invites audiences to reminisce and experience the music that fans still cherish to this day, with wild guitar riffs, bracing horns and searing vocals.

grapevinetexasusa.com/event/the-chicago-concert-xperience/41695/

Luling Foundation Farm, 523 S. Mulberry St.

Kids in grades third through 12th compete in a youth beef burger competition.

lulingfoundation.org

Nalle Bunny Run Wildlife Preserve, 4615 Bunny Run

An immersive walk through Nalle Bunny Run Preserve explores what our senses tune into, how the brain and body react, and when and how to apply simple practices. This is a 2-hour experience at a leisurely pace with opportunities to explore multiple habitats on the preserve and pauses for discussion.

hillcountryconservancy.org/event/nature-immersion-walk-at-bunny-run-wildlife-preserve

Downtown, 100 W. Buck St.

Attend the 41st annual Kolache Festival on the square in downtown Caldwell, always the second Saturday in September. Along with homemade kolaches, the event includes the crowning of Miss Kolache Festival followed by the SPJST youth Beseda dancers, a kolache eating contest, the kolache baking championship, a 5K Kolache Krunch run, and polka music. Plus, there are arts and crafts booths and food vendors, a quilt show, museum exhibitions, a street rods and classic car show, an antique machinery and tractor show, and a kids activity zone.

burlesoncountytx.com/kolache-fest

Main Plaza, 100 N. Main St.

Spend a Saturday or Sunday browsing this monthly market and visiting the many downtown boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. There are a variety of bargains and items to be found including jewelry, plants, art, handicrafts, collectibles, and antiques.

boernemarketdays.com/boerne.html

The AgriCultural Museum and Arts Center, 102 City Park Road

Bring your instrument and play along, or just come to listen to the Bluegrass Jam at The AgriCultural, held on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month.

theagricultural.org

Kuhlmann-King Museum, 402 E. Blanco Road

The Kuhlmann-King house gives the public an opportunity to step back in time to see what a historical Boerne home looked like “way back when.” Monthly events and themes vary.

bahpsboerne.org

Old Jail Museum, 208 E. San Antonio Ave.

The Kendall County Historic Jail, constructed in 1887, served as the county jail for a century. The Friends of the Kendall County Historic Jail have restored the space, bringing it back to life as a one-of-a-kind museum of Kendall County history. 

facebook.com/kchistoricjail

Downtown, Austin Street

This show features more than 100 years of rural American history with vehicles as well as stationary and working antique engines, antique farm machinery, and antique displays. Other festivities include a swap meet, a parade, exhibits, a slow tractor race, and awards.

diamonddonempire.com

Hill Country Youth Event Center, 3785 SH 27

Vendors sell new and used guns, knives, ammo, coins, jewelry, camping gear, and accessories.

texasgunandknifeshows.com

Downtown

The music festival brings live music, entertainment, and community to downtown Denison and celebrates the city’s railroad heritage with performances from regional and local artists.

facebook.com/downtowndenisoninc

Downtown, 200 Main St.

Cooler weather is here, and it’s time for Main Street Market Day in Marble Falls. Browse several blocks of arts, crafts, baked goods, and other merchandise in downtown on Main Street. The event is pet-friendly.

marketdayonmain.com/dates

Gulf Coast Bird Observatory, 299 SH 332 West

Watch thumb-sized hummers dart in and out of nectar-producing flowers like lantana, trumpet-vine, and honeysuckle, or spy them sipping nectar at feeders hanging from tree limbs and building awnings. See a bird-bander take measurements of a hummingbird, weigh it, and clamp a thin, number-coded band on one of its legs. There are also activities for kids, nature-themed booths, and native plant sales.

gcbo.org

Freeport Historical Museum, 311 E. Park Ave.

Experience this exhibition about local ghost stories and Freeport’s spookiest places.

freeportmuseum.com

Various locations

Every second Saturday in historical downtown Corsicana, participating shops and businesses offer complimentary mimosas to customers at a variety of stops.

visitcorsicana.com

The Palace Theatre, 112 W. Sixth Ave.

Fleetwood Journey is a premier tribute band celebrating the legendary music of Fleetwood Mac and Journey. Known for their powerhouse vocals and rhythmic vibes, this tribute band captures classic songs with due homage to the original recordings.

corsicanapalace.com

Gruene Historic District, 1601 Hunter Road

Participants enjoy a leisurely or competitive run through the Texas Hill Country with medals awarded for each age group and a post-race social with food and beer for all participants. The event is sponsored by the New Braunfels Running Club and benefits a New Braunfels charity.

gruenetexas.com

The Boulders at Lake Tyler, 16538 McElroy Road

This annual sprint triathlon is known for a beautiful course around Lake Tyler and attracting new participants from across East Texas and beyond each year. The race consists of a 650-meter open water swim, a 13-mile bike portion, and a 3-mile run.

ettriathletes.com/rose-city-tri

Freeport Historical Museum, 311 E. Park Ave.

See this exhibition about the federal Bracero Program, which provided agricultural labor from Mexico during World War II, and local Hispanic history. 

freeportmuseum.com

San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts, 1 Love St.

Rock musician Bobby Whitlock was best known as a songwriter and performer, co-founding Derek and the Dominoes with Eric Clapton, and having performed on George Harrison’s 1970 triple album “All Things Must Pass.” In his later years, he found painting to be outlet for creative expression. Having worked in collaboration with Whitlock and his wife and longtime musical partner, CoCo Carmel, the San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts presents an interactive exhibition of Whitlock’s dynamic paintings, together with music and memorabilia from the course of his long career.

samfa.org

H-E-B Performance Hall at The Tobin Center, 100 Auditorium Circle

Syncopated Ladies is a female tap dance band from Los Angeles, created by Emmy Award-nominated tap dancer and choreographer, Chloe Arnold, protegé of Debbie Allen. The group has worked with Beyonce and appeared on “So You Think You Can Dance” and “Good Morning America.”

tobincenter.org/syncopatedladies

Main Street, 636 S. Main Street

The 40th annual GrapeFest is the largest wine festival in the Southwest. Its wine encounters and festivities include the popular GrapeStomp, kid-friendly fun, live music, and the People’s Choice Wine Tasting Classic and International Wine Experience.

grapevinetexasusa.com/grapefest/grapefest-events/

The Nave Museum, 306 W. Commercial St.

Experience the works of Texas artist Stella Alesi, who works with a variety of mediums including drawing, painting, collage, photography, and large wall works.

navemuseum.org

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.

grapevinetexasusa.com/event/harvest-wine-train/41480/

Alamo Drafthouse Cinema , 1911 Aldrich St., Suite 120

Fantastic Fest is the largest genre film festival in the U.S., specializing in horror, fantasy, sci-fi, action, and just plain fantastic movies from around the world.

fantasticfest.com

Museum of the Big Bend, 400 N. Harrison St.

The nation’s longest-running exhibit of premier Western art and custom cowboy gear celebrates its 40th year. Experience artist demonstrations and a live auction.

museumofthebigbend.com/trappings-of-texas

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.

rockport-fulton.org/hummerbird-celebration

Oak Point Park / Red Tail Pavilion, 2801 E. Spring Creek Parkway

See more than 30 magnificent, colorful, hot air balloons. Other attractions include a parachute team that jumps from a plane over the park and lands right in the middle of the launch field; live music; a kids fun zone with inflatable rides, slides, a pirate ship, and the “berry go-round”; a balloon glow in the evening; and nightly fireworks shows.

events.visitplano.com/event/2026-plano-balloon-festival

The ROC, 115 Putman St.

Over 100 quilts are on display and vendors are set up for shopping.

sulphurspringstxquilts.com

Diamond Don RV Park and Event Center, State Highway 49

This 22nd annual event has racers come from all over the world to participate in a weekend full of old bikes showcasing AHRMA vintage, post vintage, next gen classes: 100cc, XR 200, and 2 stroke modern bikes. The wide, flat grassy pit area offers great viewing of the racetrack that runs through the pasture and into the Piney Woods. Vendors and concessions are available at the track. The weekend closes out with a wine-down party on Sunday evening and a fireworks show with cannon fire.

diamonddonempire.com

Freyburg Hall, 5701 Freyburg Hall Road

“Now and Then” is a heartfelt romantic comedy/drama written by Sean Grennan. Set in 1981, it follows Jamie, a young bartender and aspiring pianist, and his girlfriend, Abby, who are visited by a mysterious older man who offers them a life-changing sum of money to just sit and talk with him.

faycotheatre.com

Various locations, 300 E. Criner St.

The North Central Texas communities of Grandview, Cleburne, Maypearl, Alvarado, Venus, Keene, Keen, Hillsboro, and Waxahachie participate in this treasure hunt adventure. Find antiques and collectibles, visit eclectic retail shops in the downtown areas, and browse yard sales and church and school fundraisers scattered throughout Johnson, Hill, and Ellis counties. Stop by local, family-owned eateries and food trucks along the shopping trail.

antiquealleytexas.com

Cibolo Center for Conservation, 140 City Park Road

These hikes begin at sunset and focus on nocturnal wildlife viewing. Hikers can expect longer hikes, use unfamiliar trails, and spend time without the use of flashlights. The hikes are hands-on and fun for adults of all ages. For the purpose of this hike an “adult” is a mature teenager on up.

cibolo.org/night-hikes

Amarillo Tri-State Fairgrounds, 3301 SE 10th Ave.

One of Amarillo’s oldest and biggest events, the fair and rodeo features carnival rides, funnel cakes and other fair food, live music, exciting rodeo action, competitions, and exhibits.

tristatefair.com

Surfside Beach Public Boat Ramp, Coast Guard Drive

Enjoy this event featuring live music, historical reenactments, food trucks, mariachi bands, and other festivities.

visitsurfsidebeachtx.org

Texas Trust CU Theatre , 1001 Texas Trust Way

Enjoy an evening of stand-up comedy as Ron White brings his signature storytelling style and sharp wit to Texas Trust CU Theatre.

texastrustcutheatre.com

Uptown Theater, 120 E. Main St.

Uptown Theater presents the dark and gripping theatrical thriller that explores the battle between good and evil within a single soul. Based on the classic novella by Robert Louis Stevenson, this powerful musical follows brilliant doctor Henry Jekyll as he pursues a dangerous experiment to separate humanity’s light from its darkness—with terrifying consequences.

uptowntheatergp.com

Asia Times Sqaure, 2625 W. Pioneer Parkway

Join Asia Times Square for a free family-friendly celebration with food, live entertainment, and cultural activities.

asiatimessquare.com

Whataburger Field , 734 E. Port Ave.

Conquer the Coast begins at Whataburger Field and proceeds with options of 66-, 21-, and 10-mile routes for cyclists of all ages and skill levels.

unitedcorpuschristi.org/conquer-the-coast

O’Reilly Auto Parts, 5160 E. Belknap St.

See a classic car show that’s free and open to the public.

ddrockinrods.com

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.

buckstinbrewing.com

Fort Concho National Historic Landmark, 630 S. Oakes St.

Explore the past 2,000 years of the Concho Valley with displays, children’s activities, and demonstrations.

fortconcho.com

Hilton Garden Inn, 7010 Padres Blvd.

This sea turtle-themed 5K run celebrates Kemp’s Ridley sea turtles. After crossing the finish line, enjoy a vibrant post-race celebration featuring an awards ceremony, photo ops with Sea Turtle Inc. mascots, a pop-up gift shop, snacks, a live DJ, and your finisher’s medal.

visitsouthpadreisland.com/events

Old Broadway School Campus, 200 Broadway Ave.

Shop for arts and crafts, ceramics, dolls, needlework, jewelry, clothing, and homemade goods. Only handcrafted items are allowed, giving you the opportunity to shop local for the upcoming holidays.

gladewaterartsandcrafts.com

Lucy Kidd-Key Park, 373 W. Pecan St.

Families love Arts Fest for its live music, visual and performing arts, photography, and the youth art show. Food vendors and artisans complete the day.

scptheater.org

Kreische Brewery and Monument Hill State Historic Sites, 414 State Loop 92

Monument Hill is the final resting place of Texas men killed in the Dawson Massacre of 1842 and the Black Bean Lottery of 1843. Join descendants of the Dawson and Mier expeditions, members of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas, Sons of the Republic of Texas, and the local community to commemorate the soldiers entombed on Monument Hill.

friendsofkbmh.org

Coryell Museum and Historic Center, 718 Main St.

Visit the Coryell Museum and Historic Center for their annual Spurfest for old-time demonstrations and the Lloyd Mitchell Spur Collection. Admission is free.

Cave Without a Name , 325 Kreutzberg Road

The band performs in the Queen’s Throne Room, where natural acoustics and ancient formations create an unforgettable underground performance venue. Rudi and the Rudiments have been performing concerts in the cave annually since 2002. The thematic focus of this show is on the balance of darkness and light marked by the first day of autumn. Part of the concert is performed in darkness with flickering candlelight.

cavewithoutaname.com

The Sheepwalk Ranch, 5305 SH 173 North

Shop local at this farm and artisan market hosted by Wool and Wildflower Mercantile. Browse fresh farm goods, handcrafted items, artisan products, and unique finds from local vendors—all set against the scenic backdrop of the Texas Hill Country.

sheepwalkranch.com

Getzendaner Park, 400 S. Grand Ave.

This Chevy truck show, considered the largest C10 gathering in the South, features over 1,000 C10 trucks, live music, and concessions.

c10sinthepark.com

Robinson Fine Arts Center, 1800 Alma Drive

Plano Symphony Orchestra presents a program with conductor Stilian Kirov and pianist Sean Chen. Kirov is a first prize winner of the “Debut Berlin” Concert Competition and has been music director of the Illinois Philharmonic and the Bakersfield Symphony. Chen is known for his “alluring, colorfully shaded renditions” (“The New York Times”) and “genuinely sensitive” artistry (“Los Angeles Times”).

events.visitplano.com/event/all-american-program

Surfside City Hall, 1304 Monument Drive

This event, which includes a speaker and light refreshments, shines a spotlight on the importance of the Texas Navy and significant moments in its history.

surfsidetx.org

Texas Trust CU Theatre , 1001 Texas Trust Way

Internationally acclaimed singer Shreya Ghoshal takes the stage for a night of music. Fans can experience her powerful vocals and beloved hits spanning multiple languages and genres.

texastrustcutheatre.com

EpicCentral, 2961 SH 161

Texas’ barbecue community is like a family, and, as in many big families, members can go many years without seeing one another. This event brings together top barbecue legends from across the state for an evening of community, two-steppin’, and smoky deliciousness under the stars.

epiccentral.com

Caldwell Arts Academy Field, 376 W. Woldert St.

The fifth annual Tyler Art Festival is back with food, fun, and lots of art.

visittyler.com

Gruene Historic District, 1601 Hunter Road

Nearly 100 vendors offer uniquely crafted items and packaged Texas foods.

gruenemarketdays.com

Hawaiian Waters Waterpark, 4400 Paige Road

This one-of-a-kind event for dogs and dog lovers returns for another great year at Hawaiian Waters Waterpark. Dive in with your best canine friend and enjoy doggie swims, contests, games, and prizes. A portion of the proceeds benefit The Colony Animal Shelter Injured Animal Fund. Concessions are available for purchase. Limit two dogs per owner.

thecolonytx.gov/839/Bow-Wow-Luau

Various locations

The annual Museum Day is a free, citywide celebration of art, culture, history, music, nature, and science. More than 20 museums in the greater Austin area welcome visitors with special programming, including guided exhibition tours and hands-on activities for visitors of all ages.

austinmuseums.org/about-austin-museum-day

Mansfield Park Arena, 2886 SH 16 North

Come see barrel racing at Mansfield Park, presented by Riding on Faith. Watch as the talented youth show the adults how it’s done.

ridingonfaithrodeo.com

Downtown , Beaton Street

Every third Sunday, visitors can enjoy a relaxed afternoon of shopping, dining, and exploring local businesses in Corsicana.

visitcorsicana.com

3Ten ACL Live, 310 W. Willie Nelson Blvd.

Pride in Local Music is a dynamic music festival that began during the pandemic as a way for the Austin LGBT Chamber to support Austin’s live music scene and creative economy. Since its inception, the Chamber has supported more than 20 local LGBTQIA artists through the festival.

austinlgbtchamber.com/prideinlocalmusic

Pecan Grove Store, 5244 SH 16 North

The 10th annual Classic Car and Truck Show features 75 of the coolest classic vehicles. Admission is free with a donation of three cans of food or a cash donation for the local food bank.

visitfredericksburgtx.com/events/10th-annual-fredericksburg-classic-car-truck-show-at-pecan-grove-store

Texas Trust CU Theatre , 1001 Texas Trust Way

Grammy Award-winning artists Taj Mahal and Keb’ Mo’ join forces as TajMo for an unforgettable evening of blues, roots, and Americana music. The Room on the Porch tour celebrates their latest collaboration and timeless sound.

texastrustcutheatre.com

H-E-B Performance Hall at The Tobin Center, 100 Auditorium Circle

The historic collaboration between two generations of American music masters, Taj Mahal and Keb’ Mo’, brings their Room On The Porch Tour back on the road with more than 15 live shows across the United States. Recorded in Nashville with Keb’ and Taj co-producing, the Grammy-nominated Room On The Porch finds the pair in peak form, playing to each other’s strengths and opening up new creative horizons more than a half-century into their storied careers. The songs are warm and inviting, rooted in the joy of human connection and the power of positivity, and the performances are as timeless as they are adventurous, incorporating the full spectrum of American roots music from blues and jazz to folk and country.

tobincenter.org/tajmo

Spur Hotel and Larry McMurtry Literary Center, 110 N. Center St.

For nearly three decades, writers of all persuasions and from all backgrounds have come to Archer City to participate in a writers workshop. The workshop is open to writers of nearly every genre, including fiction, nonfiction narratives, memoir, history, and features.

lmcmurtrylitcenter.org/workshops/archer-city-writers-workshop-fall-2026

Texas Trust CU Theatre , 1001 Texas Trust Way

Legendary British rock band Squeeze brings decades of chart-topping hits and fan favorites to Grand Prairie. Don’t miss an evening of classic songs and unforgettable live performances.

texastrustcutheatre.com

KL Ranch Camp, 5455 River Road

Set against the backdrop of the pristine Guadalupe River, this unforgettable weekend blends scenic camping, craft beer, and live music from across the Lone Star State.

riverrevival.net

S.A.L.E. Rodeo Arena, US 90 East

See the Sul Ross State University rodeo team’s world-ranking performers at the birthplace of college rodeo.

sulross.edu/rodeo

The Palace Theatre, 112 W. Sixth Ave.

Country music star Tracy Byrd brings decades of chart-topping hits to the Corsicana Palace Theatre this fall. Known for fan favorites like “Holdin’ Heaven,” “Watermelon Crawl,” and ACM Song of the Year winner “The Keeper of the Stars,” Byrd helped define ‘90s country music with his traditional sound and platinum-selling success.

corsicanapalace.com

Texas Trust CU Theatre , 1001 Texas Trust Way

Experience a night of classic rock featuring Grand Funk Railroad, the Marshall Tucker Band, and BlackHawk. This powerhouse lineup delivers iconic hits and high-energy performances from some of rock’s most enduring bands.

texastrustcutheatre.com

The Center for the Arts and Sciences, 400 College Blvd.

The Sea Shell Searchers of Brazoria County and the Houston Conchology Society host the 2026 Texas Shellers Jamboree, a gathering that includes an annual shell show featuring various shell displays, sales, and meetings for shelling enthusiasts. If you plan to attend, you can find further details and registration forms as they are posted on the Houston Conchology Society homepage or check the Sea Shell Searchers of Brazoria County for local club information. You do not have to be a member of a Texas Shell Club to come to the jamboree, but there is a charge to attend. The Sea Shell Searchers Shell Show is free.

houstonshellclub.com

Giddings Public Library and Cultural Center, 276 N. Orange St.

Texas authors and Texas books are honored at the Texas Word Wrangler Book Festival. Speak with talented Texas authors and have the opportunity to hear them read selections from their writings, and buy signed copies of their work. Books of all genres are presented including mystery, children’s, science fiction, Western, romance, religious, and instructional.

texaswordwrangler.com

Old Town Lewisville, 151 W. Church St.

Taking over the streets on the last weekend of September, this isn’t just a festival. It’s a full-throttle celebration of Texas spirit. Hear country music on six stages, witness the Padrino Foods World Tamale Eating Championship, partake in Western-themed activities, and browse vendor booths.

cityoflewisville.com/city-hall/city-departments/community-engagement/special-events-festivals/western-days-festival

Water’s Edge Park, 602 S. Shoreline Blvd.

The Texas Food Championships isn’t just a competition, it’s where Texas flavor meets world-class ambition. As the official state qualifier for the World Food Championships, this is where the best of the best battle it out for a coveted spot on Team Texas. Category champions earn the honor of representing the Lone Star State on the biggest culinary stage in the world.

texasfoodchampionship.com

The Bowery, 200 Market St.

The Bowery becomes a hub of activity, filled with attendees drawn by the easy rhythm of the Cowboy Music and Poetry Gathering. Regional performers take to both outdoor and indoor stages, carrying forward the voices and stories of life on the range. Alongside the music and poetry, a ticketed chili cookoff invites a bit of friendly competition, while evening concerts showcase headlining artists who bring both authenticity and energy to the stage.

winnsborocenterforthearts.com

The Continental Club, 1315 S. Congress Ave.

Equal parts velvet and desert dust, songwriter, actress, and filmmaker Patricia Vonne continues her celebration of the music and culture of her beloved South Texas with the upcoming release of her tenth album, “My Heart’s Got A Mind of Its Own.” With this new project, she brings her signature magnetism to fans wrapped up in a noir-meets-fiesta package. ​

Big Laugh Comedy Club , 604 Main St., Suite 100

Experience a night of laughter with your special someone and enjoy this unique, relationship-themed comedy show. Hosted by standup comedian Jesse Peyton, the show includes a panel of comedians answering relationship questions submitted by the audience and marriage advice that’s brutally honest and funny. This is for audiences age 21 and up.

fortworth.blcomedy.com/shows/couples-therapy

Robinson Park , 123 Robinson Park Drive

Two full days of the best in Texas live music includes seven bands on a special concert stage along the Llano River. Food and drink vendors are on site.

llanotexasmusicfest.com

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.

bangersaustin.com/pages/event-calendar

Bandera Brewery, 3540 SH 16

The fifth annual Bandera Brewery Beerfest features four days of games, craft beer, music, and delicious food. Tickets are not required to enter, but organizers encourage signing up for games in advance.

banderabrewery.com

Mansfield Park, 2886 SH 16 North

Biker Rallies of Texas hosts this rally that includes a poker run, a bike show, biker games, a tattoo contest, a cowboy rodeo, concerts, venders, and food.

bikerralliesoftexas.com

The Menil Collection, 1533 Sul Ross St.

The exhibition presents 44 prints and works on paper by the American artist Terry Winters, who draws inspiration from mathematical systems and structures of the natural world. Celebrating two groups of gifts to the Menil and organized in close consultation with the artist, the career-spanning presentation explores the importance of printmaking to Winters’s practice and its dialogue with other forms of making.

menil.org

Hill Country Community Theatre, 4003 FM 2147 West

Hill Country Community Theatre opens Season 41 with “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder,” the knock-‘em-dead, uproarious hit that was the most-nominated show of the 2014 Broadway season.

thehcct.org

Texas Trust CU Theatre , 1001 Texas Trust Way

British electronic soul group Jungle brings their acclaimed live show to Texas Trust CU Theatre. Fans can expect infectious grooves, dynamic visuals, and tracks from their celebrated catalog.

texastrustcutheatre.com

The Park of East Texas, Inc., 204 Patton Lane

Celebrate East Texas’ traditions at the 110th annual East Texas State Fair and second annual rodeo. Enjoy exciting rodeo action, live entertainment, fair food favorites, livestock exhibits, carnival rides, and family-friendly fun. This beloved fall event showcases the heritage, agriculture, and hospitality that make East Texas unique.

etstatefair.com

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.

fairfieldtexaschamber.com

Sam Rayburn Historic Site, 890 SH 56 West

Experience the rich history of northeast Texas at Farming Heritage Day, a free event celebrating the legacy of the mid-1900s family farm. Get hands-on with the past as you explore livestock exhibits, classic automobiles, antique tractors, and vintage farming implements.

thc.texas.gov/historic-sites/sam-rayburn-house

Mike Leebron (Lions) Park, 716 CR 296 (Caney Drive)

Start with a leisurely paddle on Caney Creek then join the festivities at Lions Park, which include food trucks, beverages, auctions, an open-class car show, and family fun.

Trinity Park, 2933 Farmhouse Way

Part of Fort Worth’s Oktoberfest, this race features 5K courses that run along the Trinity Trail with fairly flat routes. All participants receive a commemorative Oktoberfest beer stein and a three-day pass to the Oktoberfest festival and race swag. There’s also a costume contest, the largest team contest, and stein hoisting. Dressing in lederhosen is recommended.

runproject.org/fort-worth-oktoberfest-5k

Downtown , 110 E. Vaughan St.

Family-friendly fun includes a parade, live music, vendors, food vendors, wine and craft beer, a washer tournament, relay games, a kids play area, and a car show. The day ends with a free street dance.

oatmealfestival.org

Courthouse Square, 1132 W. Court Plaza

Get ready for a day full of chrome, classics, horsepower, and hometown fun at the family-friendly car show on the courthouse square. Enjoy great food, cool cars, music, shopping, and fun for all ages.

Lakehills Community Center, 11225 Park Road 37

Celebrate the 45th year of the Medina Lake Cajun Festival. What began as a small gumbo cookoff to raise funds for the Lakehills Community Center has evolved into a unique event bringing the food, music, and culture of Louisiana to the heart of the Texas Hill Country. Crawfish pies, crawfish étouffée, jambalaya, fried catfish and shrimp, boudin, and more are found, and the gumbo cookoff remains the heartbeat of the event. Two stages blast Cajun, zydeco, and country music, and there are arts and crafts and games for kids.

cajunfestival-medinalake.com

Convention Center Plaza, 1 Civic Center Plaza

Way Out West Fest celebrates 10 years as one of the city’s most anticipated country music festivals. Featuring multi-platinum country artist Cole Swindell as this year’s headliner, the festival brings together live music across multiple stages, regional food and drink experiences, interactive activations, contests, dancing, and the vibrant energy that defines El Paso’s entertainment scene.

epwayoutwest.com

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.

pilotpointoktoberfest.com

Leo J. Welder Center for the Performing Arts, 214 N. Main St.

Fall for Dance features a mixed repertory of classical and contemporary pieces highlighting the talent of Victoria Ballet Theatre. Pieces by professional guest choreographers are included.

victoriaballet.org

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.

grapevinetexasusa.com/nash-farm/events/harvest-moon-supper/

Sundrop Springs, 953 Hueco Springs Loop Road

Sundrop Springs is a new family tradition that brings entertainment during the best time of year. Enjoy a hayride, pumpkin patch, mazes, and delicious food.

sundropsprings.com/fall-attractions

The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel, 1601 Lake Robbins Drive

Discover a curated indoor show celebrating creativity, craftsmanship, and design. Explore original works from artists and designers across the country, enjoy artist talks, acoustic music, specialty vendors, and opportunities to connect directly with artists.

thewoodlandsartscouncil.org

Black Rifle, East San Antonio Avenue and South Main Street

Join the team at Black Rifle Coffee Company and their neighbors for an old-fashioned block party. Enjoy live music, great food and drink, and a cool car show.

blackriflecoffee.com

Cibolo Center for Conservation, 142 City Park Road

Moondance is a longstanding, beloved tradition at the Cibolo. Grab lawn chairs and coolers, and come enjoy live music performed by local bands under the oak trees, as well as tasty bites from food trucks.

cibolo.org/moondance

Arts in the Sunset, 3701 Plains Blvd.

World-class muralists add new art to Amarillo at this event that’s capped off by a high-energy music festival and interactive art show at Arts in the Sunset.

hoodoomural.com

Cailloux Theater, 910 Main St.

Best known as the Season 17 winner of NBC’s “The Voice,” Jake Hoot has graced the Grand Ole Opry, the Ryman Auditorium, and other legendary stages, captivating audiences with his rich, soulful voice and undeniable gift for storytelling. 

caillouxperformingarts.com

Cadillac Dance Hall, 1375 FM 1855

The Cadillac Dance Hall opens on the last Saturday of every month for an evening of good fun, great music, and real country entertainment. Dance the night away on the hardwood floors of an authentic Texas dance hall.

visitmarblefalls.org/event/eddie-shell-and-the-not-guilties/214

Texas Trust CU Theatre , 1001 Texas Trust Way

The popular live podcast comes to Grand Prairie for a night of stand-up comedy and unpredictable entertainment. Hosted by Tony Hinchcliffe, the show features comedians, special guests, and audience participation.

texastrustcutheatre.com

UT Tyler Cowan Center, 3900 University Blvd.

Multiplatinum-selling singer and ASCAP award-winning songwriter LeAnn Rimes has made a name for herself since she was 14 and winning Best New Artist, making her the youngest solo artist to take home a Grammy, and, at 15, becoming the first country artist to win Artist of the Year at the Billboard Music Awards. Her ballad “How Do I Live” holds the record as Billboard’s Hot 100 all-time No. 1 hit by a female artist.

cowancenter.org

St Paul’s Lutheran Church Picnic Grounds, FM 2239 and CR 212

Celebrate Wendish culture with services at St Paul’s Lutheran Church, then continue with food, events, and demonstrations. See Wendish noodle making, sausage making, and the authentic painting of traditional Wendish Easter eggs. It’s a great day for the whole family with lots of activities for the kids.

texaswends.org/wendish-fest

South Padre Island Entertainment District, 211 W. Whiting St.

Designed for both seasoned athletes and first-time competitors, the SPI Triathlon features Olympic and sprint distance courses, offering an exciting challenge for every skill level. The race includes an open-water swim, cycling, and running.

visitsouthpadreisland.com/events

H-E-B Performance Hall at The Tobin Center, 100 Auditorium Circle

Taylor Dayne is a global pop icon with a career spanning three decades. Taylor’s groundbreaking debut single “Tell It To My Heart” turned her into an overnight international star in 1987. She followed the smash hit with 17 Top 20 singles over the course of her career, including No.1’s “Love Will Lead You Back,” “Prove Your Love,” and “I’ll Always Love You.”

tobincenter.org/taylordayne

Victoria Community Center, 2905 E. North St.

Celebrate Czech heritage with live Czech music and dancing, Czech food and drink, arts and crafts, games, and a country store.

victoriaczechs.org

Watermelon Thump Pavilion, 319 E. Davis St.

A fun car show and quilt show are rolled into one event with food, music, and things for kids to do.

facebook.com/quiltsandcars

Frontier Times Museum, 510 13th St.

Kick up your boots at the jamboree held every fourth Sunday of the month. Enjoy an afternoon of live music with the Frontier Times Troubadours, along with wild stories and great company.

frontiertimesmuseum.org

Venue ATX, 516 E. Sixth St.

Austin Summer Carnival is a vibrant celebration of African heritage with Brazilian, Latin, Caribbean, and African rhythms, hosted every last Saturday of summer.

austinsummercarnival.com

Spur Hotel, Larry McMurtry Literary Center, 110 N. Center St.

Over the course of three and a half days, workshop your memoir material.

lmcmurtrylitcenter.org/workshops/writing-dynamic-memoir-from-lived-experience-to-gripping-story

On The Levee, 1108 Quaker St.

Presented by nonprofit Texas Vignette, the juried event showcases works exclusively by women artists, spotlighting and supporting exceptional yet often underrepresented talent across the state. The Vignette Art Fair is unique in that it is fully submission-based, curated in an exhibition-style setting, and solely spotlights the work of women artists. Most significantly, 100% of all sales proceeds go directly to the artists.

texasvignette.org

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.

firstmondaycanton.com

Bass Concert Hall, 2350 Robert Dedman Drive

Boz Scaggs is an American singer, songwriter, and guitarist. An early bandmate of Steve Miller in The Ardells and the Steve Miller Band, he began his solo career in 1969, though he lacked a major hit until his 1976 album, “Silk Degrees.” He’s known for his 1976 songs “Lido Shuffle” and “Lowdown.”

texasperformingarts.org

Clayton’s Beach Bar and Grill, 6900 Padre Blvd.

More than 30,000 come to see master sandcastle builders demonstrate their abilities. The event features game vendors, food and drinks, and art booths.

visitsouthpadreisland.com

Various locations

Homeowners all over town go through their closets and storerooms and bring out treasures to sell. Many local businesses participate as well. You might find that perfect item you have had your eye on for sale this weekend. Maps will be provided.

jeffersontxchamber.org

Harbor Festival Grounds, 101 Seabreeze Drive

Since 1975, the Rockport-Fulton SeaFair has been the Gulf Coast’s premier fall festival, with four days of live music, legendary Cajun cooking competitions, crab races, carnival rides, a parade, and the warmth of a tight-knit coastal Texas community.

rockportseafair.com

Texas Trust CU Theatre , 1001 Texas Trust Way

Join Anne Wilson and special guests for an inspiring evening of contemporary Christian music. The Stars Tour features uplifting performances and powerful messages of faith and hope.

texastrustcutheatre.com

Downtown, 2503 College Ave.

Join along in the heart of Snyder for one of the town’s most beloved traditions—White Buffalo Days, which celebrates the rich history, culture, and spirit of Snyder. Two days of fun include vendor shopping, food trucks, live music, and activities for all ages.

snyderchamber.org

Possum Kingdom Chamber of Commerce, 362 N. FM 2353

A concert, food trucks, cornhole tournament, vendors, silent and live auctions, and a competitive barbecue and chili cookoff are all included in the 32nd annual Possum Fest, which raises funds for annual nonprofits, scholarships, and community events.

possumkingdomlake.com

Alpine Civic Center , 801 S. Holland Ave.

The fifth annual Big Bend Bluegrass Festival brings together exceptional bluegrass talent, rich musical heritage, and the unmatched, rugged charm of the Big Bend region. Located just a short drive from Big Bend National Park and the McDonald Observatory, the festival offers the perfect soundtrack to your desert mountain adventure.

bigbendbluegrass.com/bgf5k

Downtown

The First Friday Farmer and Artisan Market is an open-air market with local artisans and crafts, cottage food, and retail vendors.

downtownbrenham.com

De Leon Plaza, 101 N. Main St.

This two-day fall festival is a celebration of all things Texas. Enjoy live Tejano and Texas country music, ballet folklórico and mariachi, a car show, a kids area, food trucks, and a shopping market.

discovervictoriatexas.com

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/

Zilker Park , 2207 Lou Neff Road

Back for its 25th year, Austin City Limits Music Festival brings the magic of the famed public TV series “Austin City Limits” outside the studio and into Austin’s most beloved park. A diverse lineup of acts perform every year with nine stages, 100+ performances, and, best of all, two weekends.

aclfestival.com

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.

austintexas.org/event/boo-at-the-zoo/380255

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.

visitfredericksburgtx.com/events/oktoberfest1

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 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.

granburysquare.com/annual-festivals-events

Downtown , Main Street

Experience the Smithville Music Festival, a celebration of live music, local culture, and community spirit. See performances by talented artists and enjoy family-friendly entertainment, great food, and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of historic Smithville.

facebook.com/stxmusicfestival

Hill Country Mile, 100 N. Main St

The family-friendly event features classic rides in the Hill Country. Enjoy live music, local craft beer, food, vendors, and cars. This year’s event is open to all-American cars, trucks, and motorcycles from 1985 and older. Register your vehicle online, or make plans to come enjoy the day admiring awesome cars in downtown Boerne.

hcmrr.com

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.

pipecreekpumpkinpatch.com

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.

texassaltco.com

Playhouse 2000 VK Garage Theater, 305 Washington St.

P2K Youth Theater presents “Get Smart,” a hilarious spoof of secret agent thrillers that follows Secret Agent Maxwell Smart on his quest to stop the sinister underground organization from their evil plot.

caillouxperformingarts.com

Downtown , 199 N. Burleson St.

Bring your hot car and your cool friends to Cars and Coffee this October and enjoy hanging out with other automobile enthusiasts in downtown Giddings.

visitgiddings.com

Wimberley Lions Field, 601 FM 2325

Held on the first Saturday of each month from March through December, Wimberley Market Days is one of the largest and most beloved outdoor markets in the Texas Hill Country. Set beneath the shade of towering oak trees, the event features nearly 500 vendor booths offering antiques, handmade goods, art, jewelry, clothing, plants, and unique vintage finds. Visitors can enjoy live music at three stages, 10 distinct food concessions, and a small-town atmosphere.

wimberleymarketday.com

Various locations

Join Burton’s Treasure Trail, a city-wide yard sale. Maps are provided at participating locations, or just look for the yard sale signs around the city.

destinationburton.org

Downtown

Celebrate the rich history and small-town charm of Honey Grove—the town famously named by Davy Crockett himself—during the 31st annual Davy Crockett Day. This family-friendly event fills historic downtown with shopping, food, live entertainment, antique tractors, classic cars, kids activities, and community fun all day long.

Lost Pines Art Center, 1204 Chestnut St.

Enjoy hundreds of original works of art, live music, and complimentary refreshments in a beautiful gallery. October’s event highlights local literary artists with readings and discussions by several authors.

lostpinesartcenter.org/events

Grayson County Courthouse Lawn, 100 W. Houston St.

The square comes alive with wine tastings, shopping, and food from the winning food trucks from the Sherman Showdown Food Truck Competition.

downtownsherman.com/stroll-on-the-square

Patrick Heath Public Library, 451 N. Main St., Bldg. 100

The Boerne Book Festival celebrates 10 years with all things regional and literary. The Texas Tech University Press and Texas A&M University Press are on hand once again, as well as some great literary organizations like the Writers League of Texas and the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. Some of the themes for this year include Hill Country baseball and Texas crime.

boernebookfest.com

Goldthwaite Pavilion at the Texas Botanical Gardens & Native American Interpretive Center, Inc., 1014 Third St.

Prairie Experience celebrates regional lifeways and Native American traditions while sustaining a place dedicated to preserving history, land, and cultural heritage for future generations. The evening includes storytelling and dancing from Larry Yazzie of Native American Productions, plus food from Pecan House Grill, raffles, live and silent auctions, and artisan pieces for sale. All proceeds benefit the Texas Botancial Gardens and Native American Interpretive Center.

legacyplaza.org

Downtown, 114 W. Mills Ave.

Over 45,000 people visit this chalk art competition each year, where more than 100 local and touring artists from all disciplines compete. There’s also art installations, live dance and theatrical performances, art and food vendors, and access to hands-on activities and exhibits.

chalktheblock.com

Alamo Park, West First Street

This festival celebrates El Campo’s heritage with live music, a beer garden, food and craft vendors, a kids zone, community 5K run, shopping, entertainment, and hometown fun all day long.

Old Rip Square, 100 W. Main St.

This vibrant, family-friendly festival honors the town’s legendary horned toad, “Old Rip,” and draws thousands to the downtown square. There’s a 5K run, parade, bands, vendors, car show, and kids activities.

eastlandchamber.com/ripfest

Scholz Garten, 1607 San Jacinto Blvd.

Hosted in tandem with the Austin Saengerrunde, the 2026 festival features live music, classic German-style beers, a massive sausage competition, and historic bowling lanes.

saengerrunde.org/events/austoberfest

Various locations, 102 NE First St.

Treasure hunters, bargain shoppers, and collectors won’t want to miss the Smithville Community-Wide Garage Sale. Explore sales throughout town and discover unique finds, antiques, household items, clothing, and tools from local residents.

smithvilletx.org

Various locations, Main Street

Experience one of Smithville’s most beloved traditions as beautiful handmade quilts are displayed throughout historic downtown. The annual self-guided tour of homes also takes place, and unique architecture, local history, and beautifully decorated residences are showcased.

Herff Farm, 33 Herff Road

At this open-air farmers market, open every Saturday on the historic Herff Farm, visitors can shop, hike the trails, get gardening inspiration, take classes on growing food, help the Cibolo Center for Conservation maintain the land through volunteer service projects, and get new recipe ideas.

cibolo.org/locations/herff-farm

Hill Country Mile, 100 N. Main St.

Once a month, shops and boutiques stay open late and have exclusive discounts, special offers, and plenty of chances to discover something new. Stroll down the Hill Country Mile, enjoy live music, and soak up the fun, welcoming atmosphere.

theboernelife.com

County Courthouse Lawn, 500 Main St.

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.

banderabusiness.com

Rattlesnake Ridge, 126 SH 16 South

On Saturdays, see the Bandera Gunfighters reenact 1800s gunfights twice a day at Rattlesnake Ridge, located behind the Bandera Visitors Center.

facebook.com/banderagunfighters

Every Saturday, enjoy free cowboy fun in downtown Bandera with activities such as chuckwagon storytelling, horse-drawn wagon tours around Bandera, and live Western music performances.

banderabusiness.com

Jake’s at Polly Peak, 3810 SH 16 South

The festival features live blues music from several bands, vendors, and food.

banderacowboycapital.com

Frontier Times Museum, 510 13th St.

Become an archeologist for a day. Dig into archeology and discover the world of fossils, or bring your own to have them identified. Enjoy hands-on activities and fun for the whole family.

frontiertimesmuseum.org

11th Street Cowboy Bar, 307 11th St.

Frogs for Freedom is a fundraiser and a patriotic celebration honoring veterans and supporting the SEAL Veterans Foundation. Enjoy live music, dancing, a live auction, and barbecue plates.

frogsforfreedom.com

Riverside Nature Center, 150 Francisco Lemos St.

The sale features water-wise shrubs, trees, and grasses to enhance native landscapes.

riversidenaturecenter.org

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.

winnsboroautumntrails.com

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.

winnsboroautumntrails.com

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.

winnsboroautumntrails.com

Singleton Plaza, 200 N. Rogers St.

This art and music festival showcases the creative talents of Texans who lean toward the odd. Local craft beers and unique food vendors round out a one-of-a-kind event.

oddfestwaxa80.com

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.

denisontexas.us/fallfestival

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.

bonhamchamber.com

Center for the Arts and Sciences, 400 College Blvd.

A 30-foot dome equipped with a Spitz Star Ball projector along with a variety of other high-tech equipment produces the night sky as it appears to the naked eye. The show gives audiences a close-up feel for comets, exploding stars, and black holes.

brazosportcenter.org

Center for the Arts and Sciences, 400 College Blvd.

Dinosaur George, a paleontologist and animal behaviorist, brings real artifacts of prehistoric life to the coastal community. His show features over 150 exhibit pieces.

brazosportcenter.org

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.

visitvarnerhoggplantation.com

The Clarion, 500 College Drive

Experience Shakespeare’s tragic love story through the music of the symphony orchestra.

brazosport.edu/clarion

Freeport Historical Museum, 311 E. Park Ave.

Celebrate Texas Archeology Month with sand excavations and artifacts visitors can touch.

freeportmuseum.com

Roberts Point Pier, 301 JC Barr Blvd.

Head to the Texas Coast for a full day of friendly competition, coastal adventure, and unwavering support for the officers and families of the Texas Department of Public Safety. Every cast helps the department continue its mission of providing scholarships, relief assistance, and emergency support for the DPS community. Registrations, check-ins, and weigh-ins take place at Roberts Point Marina.

portapf.org

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.

tradersvillage.com/grand-prairie

Louie’s Backyard, 2305 Laguna Blvd.

Cyclists from across the region bike the Ride for Rotary, a scenic cycling event beginning in Brownsville and finishing on South Padre Island. Participants can choose between a 33-mile short route or a 50-mile long route.

visitsouthpadreisland.com

Ellis County Rural Heritage Farm, 130 Cunningham Meadows Road

This family-centered event features outdoor games, hayrides, farm vendors, farm animals, and farm living history activities.

ruralheritagefarm.org

H-E-B Performance Hall at The Tobin Center, 100 Auditorium Circle

Fifty years after the discovery that monarch butterflies spend winters in the forests of Mexico, photographer and National Geographic Explorer Jaime Rojo reveals this winged wonder of the insect world in new ways with never-before-seen visuals. Tag along with conservationists and citizen scientists who are helping this species avoid catastrophic threats, all through Jaime’s beautiful photos and videos.

tobincenter.org/chasingmonarchs

Major Hope Corral, 749 Old Medina Highway

Every Sunday, join Bandera Historical Rides for a cowboy breakfast and a morning horseback ride.

banderahistoricalrides.com

Medina Community Center, 13857 SH 16 North

Join the Medina Livestock and Wildlife Association for their annual fundraiser. Enjoy cabrito, brisket, sausage, and all the trimmings, along with a raffle and silent auction.

banderacowboycapital.com

Warehouse of Living Arts, 119 W. Sixth Ave.

The Corsicana Piecemakers’ annual quilt show runs the entire month of October. The quilts are judged on October 1st, then hung on the 2nd. Opening day to see the quilts is October 5th, and at the end of the show, there’s a raffle quilt drawing.

corsicanaquiltguild.com

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.

giddingsstonemansion.com

Boerne Farmers Market, 402 E. Blanco Road

This weekly market goes beyond the traditional shopping experience. Come and explore the bounty of local farmers and growers, homesteaders, ranchers, and artisans, and enjoy the dynamic atmosphere of the market.

boernefm.com

Bivin’s Home Lawn, 1000 S. Polk St.

Jazztober is a free jazz concert on Tuesday nights in October. Bring a lawn chair and a picnic to the lawn of the historical Bivins Home in Center City. The porch of the Bivins Mansion becomes the stage.

centercity.org/jazztober4

Fannin County Multi-Purpose Complex, 700 FM 87

The Fannin County Fair offers a classic community experience filled with carnival rides, livestock shows, and live entertainment for all ages, including a petting zoo, animal tricks, and live music. The fair is a time-honored tradition that showcases the hard work of local youth and the vibrant culture of the region.

fannincountyfair.net

Heritage Farmstead Museum, 1900 W. 15th St.

Learn about what life would have been like for an early settler moving out, building up, and living on a farmstead. Meet local demonstrators and find out what important craft or skill was needed to settle a farmstead. Try your hand at farm chores including washing laundry, plowing a field, feeding the chickens, and milking Buttermilk the cow (a mechanical milking machine).

heritagefarmstead.org/events/category/homeschool-day

Various locations

Lockhart, the barbecue capital of Texas, welcomes some of the top 50 barbecue joints in the state for Texas Monthly’s Barbecue Fest. Attendees can expect barbecue samples, an artisan market, live music, and cooking demonstrations.

texasmonthly.com/event/2025-texas-monthly-bbq-fest-in-lockhart

New Braunfels Civic Center, 375 S. Castell Ave.

Shop a huge book sale with thousands of books of every genre, plus CDs, DVDs, books of special interest, and collectibles. The sale raises tens of thousands of dollars to support the New Braunfels Public Library.

facebook.com/nbplfol

Gruene Historical District, 1612 Hunter Road

The Gruene Music and Wine Festival began as a one-day event in 1987 with the purpose of promoting Texas and Americana music while raising funds for the United Way of Comal County. Over the years, it has become a multi-day celebration not only of Texas and Americana music, but also wine, made right here in Texas.

gruenemusicandwinefest.org

Mansfield Park, 2886 SH 16 North

Enjoy family fun at this fall celebration that features farm animals, arts and crafts, live music, delicious food, and live entertainment in the heart of Bandera.

banderacountyfair.com

Arts in the Sunset, 3701 Plains Blvd.

Celebrate storytelling from around the world with diverse films, engaging workshops, and networking opportunities.

amarillofilmfestival.com

Amarillo Tri-State Fairgrounds, 3301 SE 10th Ave.

Over 100 cooking teams compete to serve up the best barbecue, while thousands of fans get to enjoy the feast.

amarillo-chamber.org/barbecue-cook-off.html

Cailloux Theater, 910 Main St.

Enjoy a full orchestra of professional musicians and advanced music students, performing a diverse musical program featuring top soloists. This month, the symphony performs “Timeless: Webber and Brahms.”

symphonyofthehills.org

Warehouse Living Arts Center, 119 W. Sixth Ave.

The Warehouse Living Arts Center presents Shakespeare’s classic comedy set in a mystical forest, where the mischievous fairy Puck causes love trouble.

thewlac.com

Texas Trust CU Theatre , 1001 Texas Trust Way

Celebrate the music of Phil Collins with this tribute concert honoring his legendary career. Audiences can expect faithful performances of classic hits from both his solo work and time with Genesis.

texastrustcutheatre.com

Marketplatz, 114 W. Main St.

The Texas Mesquite and Fine Art Spectacular is a small-town art fair in Texas where patrons discover unique treasures made by hand. Art varies each year, but expect spectacular furniture, turnings, mantels, delicate scroll work, charcuteries, sculpture, pens and pencils, lamps, and a host of unique items featuring Texas’ own mesquite wood.

texasspectacular.com

Art Museum of Southeast Texas, 500 Main St.

Delilah Montoya is a Latina photographer living in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Montoya’s exhibition features a curated selection of art from her recent retrospective at the Albuquerque Museum of Art and additional artwork. Examples of artworks in this exhibition include portraits from the Contemporary Casta Portraiture: Nuestra Calidad series featured at the National Museum of Mexican Art and landscapes from the Trail of Tears series.

amset.org

Bass Concert Hall, 2350 Robert Dedman Drive

Experience the heroism of “My Hero Academia,” celebrating 10 years of unforgettable adventures. From Deku’s first steps to the thrilling battles, this live concert brings the anime’s full eight-season journey to life on stage. Accompanied by a 15-piece live band performing Yuki Hayashi’s iconic score perfectly synced with striking visuals of your favorite scenes, every note captures the triumph, heartbreak, and courage of Class 1-A, creating an immersive concert experience for fans new and old alike.

texasperformingarts.org/event/my-hero-academia-2026-bass-concert-hall-austin-texas

Fort Concho National Historic Landmark, 630 S. Oakes St.

Take an evening walking tour of the historic site with true and scary stories told based on actual events from the 1870s.

fortconcho.com

South Texas Botanical Gardens and Nature Center, 8545 S. Staples St.

A magical evening under the stars and among the flowers includes music and dancing with the Diamond’s Edge Band, dinner from various restaurant stations, a butterfly release, a silent auction, garden strolls through exhibits, and “magic” from San Antonio mentalist James Arthur.

stxbot.org

Horsehead Crossing on the Pecos River, 1000 Horsehead Road

A celebration of the “second most iconic spot in Texas history” sees reenactors, chuckwagons, cowboy music, Comanche dancers, and live cannon fire at the spot where Oliver Loving and Charles Goodnight hit the Pecos River on their cattle drive that inspired “Lonesome Dove.”

pecoscountyhistoricalcommission.org/horsehead-crossing-celebration

Heritage Park, 301 N. Ash St.

A three-day, German-themed festival sees live entertainment, children’s activities, and food and drinks.

muensterchamber.com

Nash Farm, 626 Ball St.

Dust off your boots and grab your dance partner for a lively 1950s-themed evening at Nash Farm, featuring a fried chicken box supper, live music, called dances, and a pie auction supporting the farm’s educational programs.

grapevinetexasusa.com/nash-farm/events/barn-dance/

Grapevine Vintage Railroad, 705 S. Main St.

Thomas the Tank Engine is visiting the Grapevine Vintage Railroad and you’re invited. Climb aboard for a ride with Thomas, meet Sir Topham Hatt, and enjoy a day packed with games, crafts, live entertainment, and plenty of fun.

grapevinetexasusa.com/gvrr/special-events/day-out-with-thomas/

Barons Creek Vineyards, 5865 US 290 East

Roll up your pants, jump in the barrel, and channel your inner winemaker. The annual Grape Stomp is a playful nod to old-world winemaking and yes, it’s just as fun (and messy) as it sounds.

visitfredericksburgtx.com/events/grape-stomp

The Stable Performance Cars, 511 W. Holland Ave.

High-performance vehicles cruise Big Bend’s scenic highways, promoting geared camaraderie while raising funds for the local community. There’s also the Poker Run and the Show-n-Shine car show.

thestablealpine.com/2026-octane-fest

Various locations

Enjoy bike games, rides, a live auction, live music, and a bike show. There’s also a raffle for a brand-new 2026 motorcycle. The event is sponsored by The Phoenix Organization of Jefferson and the Brother’s Keepers MC. Proceeds go to Percy R. Johnson Burn Foundation and Camp I’m Still Me.

easttexasburnrun.com

Texas Motorplex , 7500 US 287 West

This NHRA Fall Nationals event, called “the fastest 10 days in Texas,” is action-packed with racing, concerts, and special events.

texasmotorplex.com

Old Town Park, 408 N. Alister St.

This celebration of art, heritage, and creativity by the sea showcases the cultural, artistic, and civic spirit of Port Aransas. Visitors can enjoy immersive experiences—from food and music to storytelling and the arts.

portaransas.org/event/port-a-cultural-arts-festival/5755

Texas Trust CU Theatre , 1001 Texas Trust Way

Experience an evening of captivating live music as the ReFantazio Orchestra presents “Metaphor.” This special performance showcases dynamic arrangements and exceptional musicianship in a unique concert experience.

texastrustcutheatre.com

EpicCentral, 2961 SH 161

Join Chef Tiffany Derry, the James Beard-nominated chef and co-founder of purpose-driven hospitality group T2D Concepts, for the third annual Shef Food and Wwine Festival with activities at EpicCentral.

epiccentral.com

At Tyler’s annual aviation celebration, visitors can see thrilling aerial performances, explore military and civilian aircraft up close, and enjoy family-friendly activities, food vendors, and entertainment throughout the weekend. The event brings together aviation enthusiasts and curious visitors alike for a day of flight and community spirit.

rosecityairfest.com

Lindsey Park, 12557 Spur 364 West

A premier disc golf tournmament, the event celebrates its 23rd annual year and is a PDGA A-tier tournament.

pdga.com/tour/event/103519

Various locations

Enjoy the beauty of the East Texas rolling hills and finish with a challenging climb up “The Beast” on one of the most popular bike tours in the country.

rccyclingtyler.com/racethebeast

Watermelon Thump Pavilion, 319 E. Davis St.

The annual Night In Old Luling event includes family-friendly fun with food, bingo, games, a petting zoo, hay rides, a cake auction, and more. Funds raised at the event go to help support local nonprofit organizations.

facebook.com/nightinoldluling2022

Farmers Market, 201 N. Chestnut St.

This 39th annual event is held at the Gainesville Farmers Market and includes local entertainment, food, vendors, and a kid zone. Car enthusiasts can also find entertainment with a stroll through the car show.

gainesvillecofc.com

Downtown

The FireAnt Festival returns every year on the second Saturday of October. Entertainment throughout the day includes a TourDeFireAnt long-distance bike ride, the FireAnt 5K, the Toddler Trot, a kids run, parade, the Diaper Derby, the gurning contest, the Chicken Chunkin’ Contest, a kids dance contest, and vendors.

marshalltexas.com/fireant-festival

River Oaks Community Center, 5300 Blackstone Drive

See a classic car show that’s free and open to the public.

ddrockinrods.com

Edom Arts Festival Grounds, Fm 279 and FM 314

Edom Arts Festival holds its 54th annual celebration with plenty of art to shop, plus wine, music, and food trucks. There’s a kids area so young artists can create a masterpiece of their own while the big folks can shop for art.

edomarts.com

Assumption Greek Orthodox Church, 714 19th St.

A celebration of Hellenic culture, this event is a lively experience featuring Greek food, wine, beer, pastries, and commemorative items. There is no admission fee.

galvestongreekfestival.com

Wharton County Historic Courthouse, 100 N. Fulton St.

One of Wharton’s most delightful evenings includes shopping for art while sampling wine in a relaxed atmosphere.

whartonchamber.com

Burnet County AgrilLife Extension Building, 607 N. Vandeveer St.

The Texas Button Society holds its fall workshop and sale, themed The Future of the Wonderful World of Buttons. Attendees can find buttons, buttons, and more buttons, and shop from knowledgeable button collectors.

texasstatebuttonsociety.com

Town Plaza, 103 Main Street West

The second Saturday of October every year, CountryFest takes over the downtown plaza. After a pancake breakfast, there’s more than 100 vendors to shop from, plus food trucks, entertainment, kids games, a splash pad, bounce houses, mini train rides, and the annual beef and chicken stew contest.

mvkeyclub.wordpress.com

Pilot Point Square, 55 Washington St.

The annual festival is held to commemorate the day Hollywood came to Pilot Point, when the film “Bonnie and Clyde” shot its famous bank robbery scene at the historic Farmers and Merchants Bank Building.

pilotpointtx.gov/304/bonnie-clyde-days

German-Texans Heritage Society, 507 E. 10th St.

Enjoy an afternoon of all things German with lot of kids activities, pumpkin painting, German music and food, and a beer garden.

germantexans.org/oktoberfest

Main Plaza, 100 N. Main St.

Spend a Saturday or Sunday browsing this monthly market and visiting the many downtown boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. There are a variety of bargains and items to be found including jewelry, plants, art, handicrafts, collectibles, and antiques.

boernemarketdays.com/boerne.html

Cave Without a Name , 325 Kreutzberg Road

The husband-and-wife duo returns to perform their original Americana tunes and distinctive harmonies that serve as a channel for their sometimes raucous, sometimes reminiscent compositions. The couple has been offering their own brand of bold, harmony-driven Americana to audiences large and small and winning awards like the 2022 Rocky Mountain Songwriter Contest.

cavewithoutaname.com

The AgriCultural Museum and Arts Center, 102 City Park Road

Bring your instrument and play along, or just come to listen to the Bluegrass Jam at The AgriCultural, held on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month.

theagricultural.org

Kuhlmann-King Museum, 402 E. Blanco Road

The Kuhlmann-King house gives the public an opportunity to step back in time to see what a historical Boerne home looked like “way back when.” Monthly events and themes vary.

bahpsboerne.org

Old Jail Museum, 208 E. San Antonio Ave.

The Kendall County Historic Jail, constructed in 1887, served as the county jail for a century. The Friends of the Kendall County Historic Jail have restored the space, bringing it back to life as a one-of-a-kind museum of Kendall County history. 

facebook.com/kchistoricjail

Medina Main Street

This small town morning market takes place twice a year. Find antiques and vintage treasures, homemade baked goods, flea market finds, collectibles and one-of-a-kind items. You may even find the kitchen sink.

banderacowboycapital.com/events/2026/medina-street-sale

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.

visitkilgore.com/kilgore-oktoberfest

Louise Hays Park, 202 Thompson Drive

Bring lawn chairs and picnic blankets and come out to the park to enjoy a free concert along the banks of the beautiful Guadalupe River.

kerrvilletx.gov

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.

winnsboroautumntrails.com

Jack Cross Pavillion, Winnsboro City Park, 915 Wheeler Drive

Enjoy an outdoor concert featuring the Brad Carpenter Band and headliner Jason Waldon and the Alibis. Along with live music, there’s dancing and vendors to round out a night under the stars in East Texas.

winnsboroautumntrails.com

Eisenhower Birthplace State Historic Site, 609 S. Lamar Ave.

Honor President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s birthday at his birthplace in Denison with special ceremonies, historical programs, and educational activities celebrating his leadership and legacy.

thc.texas.gov/historic-sites/eisenhower-birthplace

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

Inks Lake State Park, 3480 Park Road 4 West

This event is hosted by the TPWD archery team. Stations feature an archery range led by archery specialists and NASP-certified park staff and volunteers; field game dressing demonstrations; outdoor and hunting-based games; the Operation Game Thief Trailer; and an interactive archery game. There also learning tables presented by TPWD Biologists.

tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/inks-lake

Brazos Valley Museum of Natural History , 3232 Briarcrest Drive

The 21st annual Boonville Days kicks off with the annual Buffalo Stampede 5K race and 1-mile fun run. After the race, the entire family can enjoy fun activities highlighting Texas history. Enjoy actors dressed in period attire, musicians, demonstrations of frontier skills, and kid-friendly activities including pony rides.

brazosvalleymuseum.org

Beach Mile Marker 13, 405 W. Ave. G

The fun begins in the morning near beach marker 13. The sky comes alive with kites of all shapes, sizes, and colors. If the evening breeze is right, you might even see the beach light up with glowing night kites. Bring your own kite and join in, or just relax and enjoy the view. This fevent is open to all ages.

portaransas.org/event/fall-kite-fly-2026/5834

Texas Trust CU Theatre , 1001 Texas Trust Way

Regional Mexican music group Los Parras brings their signature sound and energetic performance to Grand Prairie. Enjoy an evening filled with fan-favorite songs and live entertainment.

texastrustcutheatre.com

Flores Center, 11237 FM 14

The Halloween Mashup brings fast-paced, competitive roller derby to Tyler. Costumes are encouraged. BYOB. Come enjoy the mayhem.

facebook.com/mayhemrollerderby

UT Tyler Cowan Center, 3900 University Blvd.

With 10 multiplatinum albums and 16 Top 30 hits, Foreigner is hailed as one of the most popular rock acts in the world with a formidable musical arsenal that continues to propel sold-out tours and album sales exceeding 80 million records. Founded in 1976, the group’s enduring anthems include “Juke Box Hero,” “Cold As Ice,” and “Hot Blooded.”

cowancenter.org

The Roosevelt Room, 307 W. Fifth St.

Join in for a guided tasting through the crisp, botanical, and beautifully nuanced world of vodka, gin, genever, and aquavit. Explore the surprisingly dramatic history of grain spirits, how they’re produced around the world, and why these clear spirits continue to dominate cocktail culture from dive bars to luxury hotel lounges. Guests receive a curated flight of 12 spirits, two classic cocktails, and hors d’oeuvres.

eventbrite.com/e/the-roosevelt-rooms-master-class-series-vodka-gin-genever-aquavit-tickets-890005399107

Downtown, 303 Main St.

Enjoy live, outdoor, plein-air art competitions, art demonstrations, musicians, artisan markets, gallery exhibits, artist meet-ups, kids activities, and film and live theater performances.

inspiredminds.art/budartsfestival

Bass Concert Hall, 2350 Robert Dedman Drive

Experience the music of KPop Demon Hunters, BTS, Huntr/x, Blackpink, and more in a high-energy tribute show brought to life by live singers and dancers.

texasperformingarts.org

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.

victoriasymphony.com

Menil Park, 1423 Branard St.

The Menil Collection’s annual fall fundraiser, Party in the Park, features cocktails and culinary delights under the majestic oak trees and twinkling lights of Menil Park. Proceeds support the museum’s public programs, as well as the enhancement, maintenance, and care of museum’s art buildings and green spaces.

menil.org/partyinthepark

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.

visitcorsicana.com

Rose Garden Center, 420 Rose Park Drive

Since its beginning in 1933, the Texas Rose Festival has represented the spirit that brings Tyler together as a community. Rich in heritage and tradition, the festival offers enchanting ceremonial events, including the Queen’s Coronation, the Queen’s Tea, and the Rose Parade, all amid a backdrop of brilliant roses.

texasrosefestival.org

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.

yorktowntx.com/western-days

Fort Concho National Historic Landmark, 630 S. Oakes St.

Guests receive clues and attempt to solve the murder case by visiting with various characters from the 1870s.

fortconcho.com

Downtown

Held annually the third weekend in October, the festival celebrates the arts with live mural painting, artist duels, an art village, a juried art show, and music—all free to the public.

texasartsandmusicfestival.com

Bass Concert Hall, 2350 Robert Dedman Drive

The Be Like Blippi Tour invites you to break out your orange Blippi glasses and ignite that spark of curiosity that lives inside every single one of us and share in an unforgettable experience that encourages kids to be like Blippi.

texasperformingarts.org/event/be-like-blippi-tour-2026-bass-concert-hall-austin-texas

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.

hotluckfest.com

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.

visitlindale.com

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.

winnsboroautumntrails.com

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.

events.visitplano.com/event/hollydays-market-of-plano-2026

Various locations

This event is a prime weekend to score deals. Snag that great pair of flip-flops or that extra-special price on the must-have swimsuit you’ve been eyeing. It’s also a goof time to bring a touch of fall décor into your home.

portaransas.org/event/shoptober/5456

Uptown Theater, 120 E. Main St.

“Puffs” (or, “Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic”) is a hilarious and heartfelt comedy that flips the wizarding world on its head—telling the story from the perspective of the students who usually stand in the background.

uptowntheatergp.com

Tyler Civic Theater, 400 Rose Park Drive

Written by Lauren Gunderson, this comedic and poignant play chronicles the efforts of Shakespeare’s fellow actors, John Heminges and Henry Condell, to compile and publish the First Folio, the first collected edition of his plays, after his death. The play, set in 1619, follows their humorous and heartfelt quest to save Shakespeare’s legacy from being lost to time and bad quartos, battling unscrupulous publishers and their own mortality in the process.

tylercivictheatre.com

Downtown , 115 N. Avenue D

Celebrate autumn’s return with family fun in downtown Clifton. Set along downtown’s historic avenues, visitors can find performers, artisans, and crafters from around the state. There’s also vendors and food.

cliftontexas.org

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.

visitsouthpadreisland.com

Texas Live!, 1650 E. Randol Mill Road

The Big Texas Run brings runners to Arlington’s entertainment district for a high-energy race experience followed by the official after-party at Texas Live. Choose your distance and take on the course with thousands of runners before celebrating with music, cold beer, and the Big Texas Run community.

runproject.org/big-texas-run

Downtown , 500 Main Plaza

Celebrate Día de los Muertos and Hispanic culture in New Braunfels. Expect live music, face painting, and a kids’ area with games, activities, and craft making. There are also vendors selling food, beer, and arts and crafts.

facebook.com/nbddlm

Palace Arts Center, 300 S. Main St.

Recreating the timeless magic of the Beatles, Hard Night’s Day delivers a tribute experience with beloved hits like “Hey Jude” and “Come Together” and deep cuts and fan favorites, complete with vintage instruments, spot-on vocals, and vibrant costumes.

grapevinetexasusa.com/event/hard-night%e2%80%99s-day-%26%238211%3b-a-tribute-to-the-beatles/41696/

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 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.

visitnacogdoches.org/events

Victoria Fine Arts Center, 1002 Sam Houston Drive

Join the Victoria Symphony Orchestra and special guest, Nola Richardson, as they perform “Voices of the Americas.” Hear the voices through the wide-open prairies of Appalachia, the deep South, and the vibrant rhythms of Mexico.

victoriasymphony.com

Downtown, 13811 RR 12

In its 19th year, the Wimberley Valley Arts Fest is a large, outdoor art festival with more than 100 fine artists from across the U.S. showcasing their work. There’s also live music, food, and drinks to round out the event.

wimberleyartsfest.org/wimberley-arts-fest-2026

Faith Lutheran Church, Fellowship Hall, 4600 Bellaire Blvd.

Houston-area wood carvers display one-of-a-kind art and compete for awards. On display are caricature, realistic, and stylized carvings including birds, animals, Santas, and cowboys. Relief and chip carvings and pyrography are also displayed. Watch the whittling contest in the afternoon.

houstonareawoodcarvers.com/fallshow.html

The Grace Museum, 102 Cypress St.

This exhibit explores the many ways in which animals fascinate and frighten us with their grace, humor, strength, and mystery through art. The artists and the animals that are part of this exhibition challenge us to examine our involvement in the lives of animals in the wild, at home, at play, and at work. They also remind us to be mindful of the animal kingdom and the planet we all share.

thegracemuseum.org

The Grace Museum, 102 Cypress St.

Through the fluidity of her painted relationships and dreamlike environments, Emily LaCour communicates the felt dynamics of relationships that transcend particular spaces. Influenced by her own relationships as part of a family unit and a new mother, she transcribes her personal and observed experiences into paralleling narratives.

thegracemuseum.org

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.

hcaltx.org/barktoberfest

The Sheepwalk Ranch, 5305 SH 173 North

Shop local at this farm and artisan market hosted by Wool and Wildflower Mercantile. Browse fresh farm goods, handcrafted items, artisan products, and unique finds from local vendors—all set against the scenic backdrop of the Texas Hill Country.

thesheepwalkranch.com

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.

frontiertimesmuseum.org

Cal Farley Boys Ranch, 8 Julian Bivins Blvd.

The Boys Ranch Rodeo is a Cal Farley’s Boys Ranch tradition that dates to 1945. Youth ages 5 to 18 compete in more than a dozen rodeo events, ranging from stick horse racing to bronc riding. The event also features a cornhole tournament, food trucks, and vendors.

calfarley.org/rodeo

Jefferson Convention and Visitor Center, 305 E. Austin St.

Established in 2001 as the original annual Bigfoot Conference in Texas by the Texas Bigfoot Research Center, this event features a full day of expert speakers, physical evidence, presentations, special screenings, vendors, and other activities.

tbc2025.eventbrite.com

Louise Hays Park, 202 Thompson Drive

Join Kerrville Parks and Recreation at the large pavilion in Louise Hays Park for Art in the Park. All ages are welcome to the free event that offers multiple crafts to create.

kerrvilletx.gov

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.

winnsboroautumntrails.com

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.

winnsboroautumntrails.com

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’.

winnsboroautumntrails.com

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.

texasjazz-festival.org

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

Inks Lake State Park, 3480 Park Road 4 West

Join the Austin Astronomical Society and use their equipment for some amazing stargazing.

tpwd.texas.gov/calendar/inks-lake/fy-27/october/star-party

Freeport Historical Museum, 311 E. Park Ave.

Things get spooky at the Freeport Historical Museum at this event showcasing ghost stories and local legends.

freportmuseum.com

Gulf Coast Bird Observatory, 299 SH 332 West

Watch volunteers collect baseline data on bird populations at the sanctuary. The banding station is an excellent opportunity to see birds up close and to learn all the birds of the Brazosport area.

gcbo.org

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.

discovertemple.com

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

Coriscana Municipal Airport, 9000 Navarro Road

The annual Corsicana Airsho brings high-flying excitement to the skies with thrilling aerial performances, military aircraft displays, and family-friendly aviation experiences.

visitcorsicana.com

Texas Trust CU Theatre , 1001 Texas Trust Way

Soft rock legends Air Supply perform their timeless collection of hits in an unforgettable live concert. Fans can sing along to classics that have captivated audiences around the world for decades.

texastrustcutheatre.com

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.

epiccentral.com

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.

Mansfield Park Arena, 2886 SH 16 North

Come see barrel racing at Mansfield Park, presented by Riding on Faith. Watch as the talented youth show the adults how it’s done.

ridingonfaithrodeo.com

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.

jeffersontxchamber.org

Kerr Arts and Cultural Center, 228 Earl Garrett St.

Members of the Outdoor Painters Society visit Kerrville to capture on canvas the Hill Country community’s beautiful landscapes and unique buildings. The public is invited to an exhibition of the work.

kacckerrville.com

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.

visitfredericksburgtx.com/events/food-and-wine-festival

Amarillo Botanical Gardens , 1400 Streit Drive

See the Amarillo Botanical Gardens in a whole new light with 1,000 lit-up jack-o-lanterns.

amarillobotanicalgardens.org/calendar

San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts, 1 Love St.

Award-winning plein air artists from all over the United States were selected to live and paint for three weeks on local ranches, giving an artistic perspective on the unique, diverse, and breathtaking beauty of the region.

samfa.org/epat

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.

facebook.com/etxchilicookoff

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.

winnsboroautumntrails.com

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.

harvestmoonregatta.com

MLK JR. Center, 1114 E. Sixth Ave.

The Corsicana Artist and Writer Residency’s Fall Presentations and Open Studios offer a chance to meet current resident artists and writers, explore their workspaces, and experience new creative work in Corsicana.

corsicanaresidency.org

Downtown , Beaton Street

Boo on the Block is a family-friendly Halloween event featuring trick-or-treating, costumes, and festive activities throughout downtown.

visitcorsicana.com

Palmer Events Center, 900 Barton Springs Road

Hosted by the Austin Gem and Mineral Society, this gem and mineral show offers over 30 vendors selling jewelry, beads, gemstones, minerals, crystals, fossils, and spheres. Exhibits include a touch table of rocks and fossils, fluorescent minerals, and members’ collections.

agms-tx.org

Evergreen Cemetery, 1868 N. Vine St.

Experience live theater in a historic cemetery setting. Visit with townspeople, portrayed by actors, at their gravesites and learn about their history. The information presented is historically accurate and entertaining.

victoriapreservation.com

Circuit of The Americas, 9201 Circuit of the Americas Blvd

An action-packed experience fuses world-class racing with major championship implications. There’s no shortage of star power off-track as superstars hit the Super Stage with post-race performances each night. Maroon 5 is scheduled for Friday night, and Post Malone is scheduled for Saturday night.

circuitoftheamericas.com/event/f1

Hill Country State Natural Area , 10600 Bandera Creek Road

Designed to test runners, the rugged trail-running race features picturesque views, technical climbs and descents, fun terrain, and optional distances of 5, 25, 50, and 100 miles.

tejastrails.com

Brazos County Expo Complex, 5827 Leonard Road

Head to the fair and rodeo for a livestock show, mutton bustin’, barrel racing, bareback riding, breakaway roping, bull riding, and even chuckwagon races. There are also nightly concerts, a fairway and carnival, and vendors.

destinationbryan.com

Texas Trust CU Theatre , 1001 Texas Trust Way

Latin music superstar Cristian Castro takes the stage for a night of beloved ballads and chart-topping hits. Don’t miss the opportunity to see one of Latin pop’s most celebrated performers live.

texastrustcutheatre.com

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.

asiatimessquare.com

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.

gptx.org

Various locations

Enjoy learning about early education in Gillespie County. The Friends of Gillespie County Country Schools, a nonprofit organization focused on the preservation of 12 one-room schoolhouses built in and around Fredericksburg between 1881 and 1936, hosts open houses from March through October. This month, the featured schools are Crabapple and Rheingold.

historicschools.org

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.

cityoflewisville.com/city-hall/city-departments/community-engagement/special-events-festivals/little-monsters-on-main

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.

Beach Waterpark, 33261 State Park Road 100

This timed, chipped event rewards participants with festive perks including tacos, beer, margaritas, unique swag, and a lively mariachi band waiting at the finish line.

visitsouthpadreisland.com

Stewart Creek Park, 3700 Sparks Road

Lace up for The Colony’s Shoreline 5K and 8-mile annual runs. Participants enjoy a flat, scenic course featuring miles along The Colony’s beautiful Shoreline Trail overlooking Lewisville Lake. The event includes live entertainment from DJ Dame, a complimentary post-run beverage, and the opportunity to support UT Southwestern cancer research.

thecolonyhalf.com

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.

thecolonytx.gov/835/family-fright-fest

Biggs Army Airfield, 12716 Biggs St.

A weekend of speed, sound, and patriotic excitement comes to Fort Bliss with the Amigo Airsho. Performers include the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor Demo Team, U.S. Army Golden Knights, world champion aerobatic pilot Kirby Chambliss, plus airshows and military demonstrations.

visitelpaso.com/events/annual-events-and-festivals/amigo-airsho

Downtown , 125 W. Mills Ave.

The ninth annual Día de los Muertos Desfile and Festival is a celebration of life for those who have departed. The event is free and includes arts and cultural activities, altars and exhibits, local vendors, and performances. The parade features 60 entries of floats, performers, and local organizations.

instagram.com/p/DWUC1YDEcRe

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.

llanochamber.org

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/

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/

Main Plaza, 100 N. Main St.

This car show, celebrating its 38th year, is open to all British-made automobiles. Come spend the day admiring vehicles manufactured across the pond.

theboernelife.com

The AgriCultural Museum and Arts Center, 102 City Park Road

The AgriCultural Museum and Arts Center hosts its fall antique tractor pull event. Come and watch antique tractors from around Texas compete and see which ones can pull the heaviest weight the furthest distance.

theagricultural.org

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.

ci.boerne.tx.us/1045/boerne-boo

Salvation Army Kroc Center, 201 Holdsworth Drive

Whether participating in the run or coming to cheer on the participants, stay for the free festivities. There’s lots of candy, bounce houses, face painting, carnival games, and a cake walk.

kerrvillekroc.org

Kerrville Schreiner Park, 2385 Bandera Highway

This is the final race of the Texas Fall Cup. The event includes mountain bike racing, a free kids race, kids activities, and clinics.

kerrvillemountainbikefestival.com

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.

waterstreetfestival.org

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.

winnsboroautumntrails.com

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.

winnsboroautumntrails.com

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.

winnsboroautumntrails.com

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.

winnsboroautumntrails.com

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.

winnsboroautumntrails.com

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.

winnsboroautumntrails.com

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.

diadelosmuertoscc.com

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.

lcraparks.com/parks/mckinney-roughs-nature-park

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.

wimberleyparksandrec.com/special-events

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.

texascountryfestival.com

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.

events.visitplano.com/event/rest-in-plano-rip-2026

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.

bonhamchamber.com

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.

visitvarnerhoggplantation.com

Horace Caldwell Pier, 230 North on the Beach

With options that include a 5K, a 10K, and a family-friendly fun run, this event welcomes all to enjoy the beach views while staying active. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or looking for a family adventure, sign up for a race and help support local high school runners and sustainability efforts in Port Aransas.

portaransas.org/events/festivals-and-annual-events/beachtober/flynns-beach-run

The Palace Theatre, 112 W. Sixth Ave.

Texas Flood delivers an electrifying tribute to Stevie Ray Vaughan and Jimi Hendrix with authentic Texas blues, soaring guitar solos, and high-energy performances. This internationally recognized Dallas-based band brings the spirit and sound of SRV to the stage.

corsicanapalace.com

Gruene Historic District, 1601 Hunter Road

At the 33rd annual festival, respected potters and sculptors from around Texas display their works, sell their wares, and demonstrate a variety of techniques. Hands-on activities are available for children.

texasclayfestival.com

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.

visit.georgetown.org

Frontier Times Museum, 510 13th St.

Kick up your boots at the jamboree held every fourth Sunday of the month. Enjoy an afternoon of live music with the Frontier Times Troubadours, along with wild stories and great company.

frontiertimesmuseum.org

Downtown, 105 S. Main St.

Enjoy trick-or-treating, a costume contest, and family-friendly fun at this free annual event.

destinationbryan.com/halloweentown

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.

sweetwatertexas.org

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.

firstmondaycanton.com

Victoria Community Center, 2905 E. North St.

Learn about the farming and ranching industries through educational programs, classes, speakers, and exhibitors. Programs are offered for adults and children.

southtexasfarmandranchshow.com

Downtown

The Austin Film Festival (AFF) is a premier annual event that celebrates the art of storytelling through film, television, and digital media. Known for its focus on the craft of screenwriting, AFF brings together industry professionals, emerging filmmakers, and movie enthusiasts from around the world.

austinfilmfestival.com

Kerr Arts and Cultural Center, 228 Earl Garrett St.

This annual statewide competition features one-of-a-kind pieces by some of the finest custom furniture makers in Texas.

kacckerrville.com

Clute Municipal Park, 100 Parkview Drive

Drive through spooky displays, grab some treats, and enjoy the Halloween spirit from your car.

clutetexas.gov

UT Tyler Cowan Center, 3900 University Blvd.

The classic rock. band returns with a new lineup of musicians but continues to play all the hits, as well as dive deep into album cuts.

cowancenter.org

Fort Concho National Historic Landmark, 630 S. Oakes St.

A historic building turns into a scary haunted house for Halloween.

fortconcho.com

Heritage Farmstead Museum, 1900 W. 15th St.

Little Farmer Fridays are interactive programs designed for preschoolers and their grown-ups. Most appropriate for children ages 2 to 5 years old, the programs offer families the opportunity to hear a story, make a craft, meet the animals, enjoy a wagon ride, and have fun on a 4.5-acre farm.

heritagefarmstead.org/learn/preschool-programs

Sanford Schmidt Amphitheater, 283 W. Fair Grounds Road

“Too Many Ghosts” is a hilarious, heartwarming comedy by Todd Wallinger. The story follows Jo Crenshaw and her daughter, who inherit a haunted house in Salem, Massachusetts, and try to turn it into a successful bed and breakfast despite the five rambunctious ghosts who refuse to leave.

fayettecountycommunitytheatre.com

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.

grapevinetexasusa.com/event/bewitched-by-the-barn/41300/

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.

grapevinetexasusa.com/event/witches-brew-train/41478/

Texas Cotton Gin Museum, 307 N Main St.

Stroll through participating businesses while shopping and sipping signature drinks.

facebook.com/events/2203950387070444

The Rockport Conference Center , 106 S. Austin St.

The 20th annual Rockport Film Festival honors the enduring power of cinema to connect communities and cultures. International in scope yet rooted in local spirit, the festival presents an exceptional selection of independent films from Texas and around the world, celebrating the art of storytelling through diverse voices and perspectives. A red carpet party takes place Oct. 29.

rockportartcenter.com/rockportfilmfestival

Hill Country Youth Event Center, 3785 SH 27

The festival celebrates fiber producers, artists, teachers, and enthusiasts. Vendors sell products and art while teachers and speakers offer classes with subjects ranging from fiber arts to animal husbandry practices. There are also live demonstrations—from sheep herding to washing and dying of fleeces—exhibits, and several smaller events.

texasfleeceandfiber.com

Downtown , 100 E. Commerce St.

Sponsored by Gladewater’s first responders, the city of Gladewater, and the Gladewater Chamber of Commerce, families can enjoy free food, games, candy, and a costume contest.

gladewaterchamber.org

H.E.B Center at Cedar Park, 2100 Avenue of the Stars

H-E-B Center at Cedar Park plays host to the 2026 U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame Game between the University of North Dakota and Michigan State.

hebcenter.com/events/detail/2026-us-hockey-hall-of-fame-game

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.

navemuseum.org

Main Plaza, 100 N. Main St.

Experience the premier exhibition of German motoring in the Hill Country. German marques are invited to enter, two wheels or four, and the event is free for spectators. Expected to attract participants from far and wide, the event also showcases music and beauty on Hauptstrasse (Main Street).

germanmotorgathering.com

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.

cityofbandera.org

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.

kerrvilletx.gov

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.

discoverdenison.com/events

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.

discovertemple.com

Major Hope Corral, 749 Old Medina Highway

Every Sunday, join Bandera Historical Rides for a cowboy breakfast and a morning horseback ride.

banderahistoricalrides.com

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.

thewomansclubfw.com

The Meadows Center , 201 San Marcos Springs Drive

The Sacred Springs Powwow is a two-day annual celebration honoring the culture, art, traditions, and languages of the Coahuiltecans, the Native people who have lived in the San Marcos area for thousands of years. Held at the Meadows Center, the event features more than 100 Native dancers competing in stunning, handcrafted regalia to the rhythm of traditional drums and songs. Guests can explore a market of more than 50 arts and crafts vendors and enjoy storytelling, live performances, and educational programs in the Native Cultures Tent.

sspowwow.com

Boerne Farmers Market, 402 E. Blanco Road

This weekly market goes beyond the traditional shopping experience. Come and explore the bounty of local farmers and growers, homesteaders, ranchers, and artisans, and enjoy the dynamic atmosphere of the market.

boernefm.com

Center for the Arts and Sciences, 400 College Blvd.

A 30-foot dome equipped with a Spitz Star Ball projector along with a variety of other high-tech equipment produces the night sky as it appears to the naked eye. The show gives audiences a close-up feel for comets, exploding stars, and black holes.

brazosportcenter.org

Palmer Events Center, 900 Barton Springs Road

The annual Garage and Estate Sale gives attendees a unique opportunity to purchase from thousands of items at bargain prices. Ranging from jewelry, tools, vintage collectibles, and children’s clothing, there’s something for everyone. Shop 21 departments for treasures and walk away with great deals.

settlementhome.org/garage-sale

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.

juniorleaguetyler.org/mistletoeandmagic

Link and Pin Gallery, 2235 E. Sixth St., Suite 102

See a group exhibition during the Austin Studio Tour using landscape as a window to the possibilities of a post-human future.

linkpinart.com

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.

boerne.org/diva-night

The Harbor Tent at Charlotte Plummer’s, 202 N. Fulton Beach Road

The festival is a multiday celebration of Texas songwriting and live music held each fall in the coastal community of Rockport-Fulton. Featuring acclaimed singer-songwriters, intimate performances, storytelling, and waterfront venues, the festival honors the rich musical legacy of hometown legend Guy Clark while showcasing the spirit and creativity of the Texas coast.

rockportsongwriterassociation.com

Warehouse Living Arts Center, 119 W. Sixth Ave.

The Warehouse Living Arts Center presents this touching story of how a stray dog changes the lives of one family forever.

thewlac.com

Fair Park, 3809 Grand Ave.

DIY Con is a hands-on festival for DIY enthusiasts, makers, and homeowners to explore tools, techniques, and creative inspiration across home improvement, woodworking, smart home, crafting, and décor.

diycon.com

Downtown

The First Friday Farmer and Artisan Market is an open-air market with local artisans and crafts, cottage food, and retail vendors.

downtownbrenham.com

Llano Visitor Center , 100 Train Station Drive

The Llano Outdoor Sports Expo is the largest event of its kind in the Hill Country. There are dozens of vendors, free goodie bags (while supplies last), food and drinks, educational courses, and workshops and seminars.

llanochamber.org

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.

wurstfest.com

Downtown

A three-day film festival showcases a variety of independent and studio films from American and Latin American cultures.

vivatexasfilmfestival.com

Riverside Park, 456 McCright Drive

Experience two days of car fun in beautiful Riverside Park. Friday includes a car meet, a cruise through Victoria, and a movie on the big screen. On Saturday, enjoy a custom car show and live music. Food trucks are on site both days.

hotrodriot.com

Espino Conference Center, Sul Ross State University, 400 N. Harrison Ave.

The Center for Big Bend Studies Annual Conference brings together historians, archaeologists, folklorists, and other researchers studying the past and present of the Big Bend region and northern Mexico.

cbbs.sulross.edu/conference

1910 Church, 130 Sisterdale Road

The Boerne Handmade Market is the largest market of its kind in South Texas. The two-day event features 75-plus handmade-only vendors with merchandise that includes jewelry, apparel, leather goods, toys, home décor, and art, as well as handmade candles, food, and drink.

boernehandmademarket.com

Mansfield Park Show Barn, 2886 SH 16 North

Bandera County Chamber of Commerce hosts its annual BuckFest Gala. The evening features a social hour, dinner and a dance, live and silent auctions, and a raffle.

banderachamber.com

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.

texassaltco.com

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.

amoa.org/christmas-roundup

VK Garage Theater, 305 Washington St.

A spy thriller, love story, and screwball comedy all in one show, “Red Herring” is set in the 1950s at the height of the Cold War.

caillouxperformingarts.com

Center for the Arts and Sciences, 400 College Blvd.

Brazosport Center Stages presents the story of an aimless drifter who encounters a group of resilient Catholic nuns in the desert and is eventually convinced to build them a chapel.

brazosportcenter.org

Surfside Beach Public Boat Ramp, Coast Guard Drive

Enjoy this event featuring live music, historical reenactments, food trucks, mariachi bands, and other festivities.

visitsurfsidebeachtx.org

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.

Wimberley Lions Field, 601 FM 2325

Held on the first Saturday of each month from March through December, Wimberley Market Days is one of the largest and most beloved outdoor markets in the Texas Hill Country. Set beneath the shade of towering oak trees, the event features nearly 500 vendor booths offering antiques, handmade goods, art, jewelry, clothing, plants, and unique vintage finds. Visitors can enjoy live music at three stages, 10 distinct food concessions, and a small-town atmosphere.

wimberleymarketday.com

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.

National Oak Park, 118 S. Magnolia St.

Shop arts, crafts, and collectibles and see antique tractors and farm equipment on display. There’s also a car and bike show, entertainment, a raffle, a veteran tribute, food courts, and kids games. Proceeds support community charitable organizations.

alvinrotary.org/novemberfest

Lost Pines Art Center, 1204 Chestnut St.

Bastrop Art Fest occurs each fall, bringing in visitors from all over Texas and beyond. Enjoy a full day of arts and crafts vendors, live performances, demonstrations, and hands-on arts and crafts activities.

lostpinesartcenter.org/events

H-E-B Performance Hall at The Tobin Center, 100 Auditorium Circle

Get ready for an unforgettable night of outlaw country, Americana, and Texas soul as Ryan Bingham and The Texas Gentlemen bring their raw sound and electrifying live show to The Tobin Center. Bingham is known for his gritty vocals, poetic songwriting, and unmistakable blend of country, blues, and rock. The Texas Gentlemen bring soulful storytelling, fiery musicianship, and the kind of authenticity that can only come from artists who live and breathe the music they play.

eventvesta.com/events/147816/t/tickets

Winedale Historic Site, 3738 FM 2714

Join Winedale as they celebrate the work of local craftsmen and artisans. The event includes demonstrators, music, food, handmade items for sale, and free tours of houses. This is a free event.

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.

burtontexas.org

San Marcos Regional Airport , 1807 Airport Drive

Two days of high-flying action include aerial performances from the U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, F-16, B-25 Yellow Rose, and more, plus up-close access to historic aircraft and interactive exhibits.

texascapitalairshow.com

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/

Pioneer Farms, 10621 Pioneer Farms Drive

The Austin Celtic Festival is a premier celebration of Celtic culture, music, and arts. This vibrant festival brings together top-tier performers, musicians, dancers, and artists from around the world to showcase the rich traditions of Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and other Celtic nations.

Herff Farm, 33 Herff Road

At this open-air farmers market, open every Saturday on the historic Herff Farm, visitors can shop, hike the trails, get gardening inspiration, take classes on growing food, help the Cibolo Center for Conservation maintain the land through volunteer service projects, and get new recipe ideas.

cibolo.org/locations/herff-farm

Cave Without a Name , 325 Kreutzberg Road

Experience an evening showcasing award-winning mariachi vocalists. Hear young National Vocal Competition superstars accompanied by UTSA School of Music’s Mariachi Los Paisanos, who placed second in the university/college group at this year’s Mariachi Extravaganza.

cavewithoutaname.com

Hill Country Mile, 100 N. Main St.

Once a month, shops and boutiques stay open late and have exclusive discounts, special offers, and plenty of chances to discover something new. Stroll down the Hill Country Mile, enjoy live music, and soak up the fun, welcoming atmosphere.

theboernelife.com

County Courthouse Lawn, 500 Main St.

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.

banderabusiness.com

Rattlesnake Ridge, 126 SH 16 South

On Saturdays, see the Bandera Gunfighters reenact 1800s gunfights twice a day at Rattlesnake Ridge, located behind the Bandera Visitors Center.

facebook.com/banderagunfighters

Every Saturday, enjoy free cowboy fun in downtown Bandera with activities such as chuckwagon storytelling, horse-drawn wagon tours around Bandera, and live Western music performances.

banderabusiness.com

The Farm Country Club, 475 Pue Road

The Medina Volunteer Fire Department hosts this annual fundraiser that includes dinner and a dance.

medinavfd.com

Jefferson Convention and Visitors Center, 305 E. Austin St.

Experience special guest speakers, vendors, tours and nighttime investigations at some of Jefferson’s historical, rumored haunted locations. This fun event is for those who enjoy history, mystery, the unexplained, and things that go bump in the night.

facebook.com/historyhauntsandparanormalconference

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.

facebook.com/craftingforgood

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.

denisonartscouncil.org

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.

events.visitplano.com/event/patriots-run-2026

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.

events.visitplano.com/event/plano-flags-of-honor-2026

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.

events.visitplano.com/event/plano-food-wine-festival-2026

Freeport Historical Museum, 311 E. Park Ave.

Learn about pottery making and the language of Freeport’s first residents.

freeportmuseum.com

Columbia Cemetery, Corner of 16th and Jackson streets

Learn about past residents of West Columbia at one of the most historical cemeteries in Texas, the Columbia Cemetery. Guides lead guests to graves of notable occupants.

columbiahistoricalmuseum.org

Texas Trust CU Theatre , 1001 Texas Trust Way

One of the most popular bands in regional Mexican music, Banda MS delivers an exciting live performance filled with chart-topping songs and fan favorites.

texastrustcutheatre.com

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.

holidaysingruene.com

H-E-B Performance Hall at The Tobin Center, 100 Auditorium Circle

Pirates might be reduced to a Halloween costume for some people, but they are a year-round fascination for archaeologist and National Geographic Explorer Lisa Briggs. Go on assignment with her to the Mediterranean Sea to explore how pirating shaped the Roman Empire. You also meet the Pirate Queen of China and then head into the lab with Lisa to follow the most famous renegade, Blackbeard.

tobincenter.org/pirateslife

Various locations

Austin Studio Tour is a free, city-wide event that invites the public into working artists studios, galleries, and creative spaces across the city. Anyone can browse listings online and in the print guide to find unique locations to visit, purchase art, learn about the creative process, and meet Austin’s most talented artists.

Downtown , 900 W. Cesar Chavez St.

Each November, over 5,000 runners and walkers take to the streets of downtown Austin for the annual Run For The Water 5K, 10-Miler, and Kids K through the beautiful West Austin course.

runforthewater.com

Various locations

The festival celebrates the legacy of Roy Perry and Aeolian-Skinner pipe organs with a week of inspiring performances by renowned organists in Kilgore and surrounding cities. The festival showcases the rich sound and artistry of American classic organ building.

royperryfoundation.org/2026-festival

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.

portafarmersmarket.com

Omni Barton Creek Resort and Spa Golf Courses, 8212 Barton Club Drive

This inaugural tournament features a field size of 120 players.

Harlingen Convention Center, 701 Harlingen Heights Drive

Each November, the Rio Grande Valley transforms into one of North America’s most vibrant birding destinations—and in 2026, the tradition continues with the Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival. This internationally recognized festival draws birders, photographers, and nature enthusiasts from around the globe, all eager to experience the unmatched biodiversity of the Lower Rio Grande Valley. Positioned at the crossroads of two major migratory flyways, the region offers a rare opportunity to spot species found nowhere else in the United States. Over five days, attendees can choose from expertly guided field trips, hands-on workshops, and engaging seminars led by some of the most respected naturalists and ornithologists in the field. Whether you’re hoping to glimpse the vibrant green jay, track elusive rarities, or refine your bird photography skills, the festival offers curated experiences for every level of enthusiast. Beyond birding, the event highlights the Valley’s unique ecosystems—from coastal wetlands and thorn forests to riparian corridors—while promoting conservation and environmental stewardship. Evening socials, vendor exhibits, and community events provide opportunities to connect with fellow bird lovers and explore the culture and hospitality of Harlingen. For seasoned birders and curious newcomers alike, the Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival is more than an event—it’s an immersive celebration of nature, discovery, and community in one of the most ecologically rich regions in the country.

rgvbf.org

The Texan Theater, 201 S. Kilgore St.

Celebrate the tenth anniversary of the REEL East Texas Film Festival, showcasing a slate of indie film projects with live screenings, filmmaker Q&As, and special events that highlight the city of Kilgore for visiting film industry colleagues.

reeleasttexas.com

Lake Road from Kohl’s to MacLean Park

Celebrate veterans in Brazoria County by attending this patriotic parade.

Diamond Don RV Park and Event Center, SH 49

All street-legal bikes can participate in self-organized rides through the Piney Woods. Some of the dirt roads harken back to stagecoach days with wagon trails on each side. Bring out your vintage dirt bikes on Saturday and Sunday to ride the Diamond Don National Motocross track.

diamonddonempire.com/diamond-don-racing

Various locations, 146 US 83

Enjoy a one-of-a-kind songwriter festival held the second weekend in November (Veterans Day weekend) in the scenic Frio Canyon town of Leakey. Over four days, award-winning and Hall of Fame songwriters from Nashville and Texas share the stories behind the songs that shaped country music in intimate listening-room settings, riverside performances, and free community events. Now in its fifth year, what began as a small gathering has grown into one of the region’s most anticipated weekends where world-class talent meets small-town Texas charm. There are at least 13 events the entire weekend at locations that include the courthouse lawn, Rio Bella Resort, The Back Porch at The Historic Leakey Inn, and The Bent Rim Grill.

songsonthefrio.com

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.

visitkilgore.com/christmasunderthestars

The Rockport Conference Center , 106 S. Austin St.

Silver Meltdown returns for a stylish evening celebrating the artistry, creativity, and craftsmanship of the Coastal Bend’s premier silversmiths. Held in Randall Ewing Kemper Hall at The ROCC, this annual event transforms the evening into a lively women-only experience filled with fashion, handcrafted silver jewelry, cocktails, music, and exclusive shopping.

rockportartcenter.com/silvermeltdown

Amarillo Civic Center, 401 S. Buchanan St.

At this competition, working ranch cowboys battle it out for top honors in an authentic Western rodeo.

wrca.org

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

UT Tyler Cowan Center, 3900 University Blvd.

Based on Tim Burton’s beloved film, this hilarious musical tells the story of Lydia Deetz, a strange teenager whose whole life changes when she meets a recently deceased couple and a demon with a thing for stripes. Under its uproarious surface is a remarkably touching show about family, love, and making the most of every Day-O!

cowancenter.org

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.

comeandtasteit.com

St. Joseph’s Halle, 212 W. San Antonio St.

The 33rd annual Fall Art Show features over 40 Hill Country artists in all mediums.

dkfredericksburg.org

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.

galvestonrrmuseum.org

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.

texasstaterailroad.net

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.

Barrow Brewing Company, 108 Royal St.

The 65th annual event includes the skirl of bagpipes, the wearing of the tartan, tossing the caber, Highland dancing, Celtic entertainers, shopping, food, and other Celtic fun.

saladomuseum.org

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.

woofstockevent.com

Hill Country Arts Foundation, 120 Point Theatre Road

At this holiday shopping showcase, find handmade crafts and other items by area artists.

hcaf.com

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

Isla Blanca Park, 33174 State Park Road

Known for its scenic surroundings and fast, runner-friendly course, this event invites athletes of all levels to run where the shoreline meets the finish line. From the sound of the waves to the coastal atmosphere throughout the course, every mile delivers the laid-back beach vibes that make racing on South Padre Island truly unique.

visitsouthpadreisland.com

Texas State Capitol, 1100 Congress Ave.

Founded in 1995, the book festival has evolved into one of the premier literary events in the country and hosts about 300 authors each year. Join other bookworms for readings, panel discussions, signings, cooking demonstrations, local food, an exhibitor marketplace, and the popular Saturday night Lit Crawl.

texasbookfestival.org

Bass Concert Hall, 2350 Robert Dedman Drive

John Dela Cruz, widely recognized by fans around the globe as Nurse John, is a stand-up comedian born in the Philippines and now based in Los Angeles. An actual nurse by profession turned viral creator, John is a comedian by heart. His comedy feels like talking to your work bestie, as his portrayals of life working in healthcare have proven to be hilariously relatable to those both in and out of the healthcare industry.

texasperformingarts.org

Commemorative Air Force Central Texas Wing, 1841 Airport Drive

Honor and celebrate the brave men and women who gave us our freedom at the Commemorative Air Force Central Texas Wing in San Marcos. Swing dance along to authentic ‘40s music amongst restored and functioning WWII aircraft.

hangardance.org

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.

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.

crossroadsbbqandbrew.com

Marktplatz, 126 W. Main St.

The Texas Woodworkers Market is an art and fine-craft show just for woodworkers. This is the second annual show and close to 50 woodworkers are present to sell their creative wood pieces, both artsy and functional. There’s live music and free admission.

visitfredericksburgtx.com/events/texas-woodworkers-market

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.

visitnacogdoches.org/events

Main Plaza, 100 N. Main St.

Spend a Saturday or Sunday browsing this monthly market and visiting the many downtown boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. There are a variety of bargains and items to be found including jewelry, plants, art, handicrafts, collectibles, and antiques.

boernemarketdays.com/boerne.html

Cave Without a Name , 325 Kreutzberg Road

Colorado’s Acoustic Eidolon, featuring Joe Scott (double-neck guitjo) and Hannah Alkire (cello), has graced stages throughout the U.S., Europe, Australia, and Canada. The duo continues to captivate audiences with a signature “new acoustic” sound, blending boundless possibilities of Celtic, Americana, world, and flamenco musical influences.

cavewithoutaname.com

The AgriCultural Museum and Arts Center, 102 City Park Road

Bring your instrument and play along, or just come to listen to the Bluegrass Jam at The AgriCultural, held on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month.

theagricultural.org

Kuhlmann-King Museum, 402 E. Blanco Road

The Kuhlmann-King house gives the public an opportunity to step back in time to see what a historical Boerne home looked like “way back when.” Monthly events and themes vary.

bahpsboerne.org

Old Jail Museum, 208 E. San Antonio Ave.

The Kendall County Historic Jail, constructed in 1887, served as the county jail for a century. The Friends of the Kendall County Historic Jail have restored the space, bringing it back to life as a one-of-a-kind museum of Kendall County history. 

facebook.com/kchistoricjail

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.

al157tx.org

Hill Country Youth Event Center, 3785 SH 27

Vendors sell new and used guns, knives, ammo coins, jewelry, camping gear, and accessories.

texasgunandknifeshows.com

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.

kerrvilletx.gov

Texas Trust CU Theatre , 1001 Texas Trust Way

Celebrate the rich traditions of mariachi music at Mariachazo. This special event features talented performers, vibrant cultural entertainment, and an unforgettable musical experience.

texastrustcutheatre.com

Sylvan Beach Park, 636 N. Bayshore Drive

The La Porte By the Bay Half Marathon starts from Sylvan Beach Park by the water, proceeding through La Porte streets and on to the Fred Hartman Bridge, one of the most beautiful and unique structures in Texas. After looping back to take on the bridge for a second crossing, the race finishes at Five Points Plaza, where the post-race party awaits with food and cold beer, awards, and good times.

runsignup.com/race/tx/laporte/laportebythebayhalf

Larry McMurtry Literary Center, 214 S. Center St.

Tracy Daugherty, author of the biography, “Larry McMurtry: A Life,” is the first speaker in the annual Larry McMurtry Lecture Series, sponsored by the Larry McMurtry Literary Center in Archer City.

lmcmurtrylitcenter.org

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

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.

frontiertimesmuseum.org

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.

visitcorsicana.com

UT Tyler Cowan Center, 3900 University Blvd.

One of the most distinctive and recognizable sounds in country music, the Oak Ridge Boys’ four-part harmonies and upbeat songs have spawned dozens of country hits and two pop smashes, as well as winning awards ranging from Grammys to CMA and the ACM. Hits include“Elvira,” “Bobbie Sue,” and “Dream On.”

cowancenter.org

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.

heritagefarmstead.org

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.

visitnbtx.com/events/downtown-lighting-santas-arrival

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.

sophienburg.com/weihnachtsmarkt

Downtown, 204 E. Holland Ave.

Alpine’s biggest arts festival spans two days in November to showcase a variety of art exhibitions in many local businesses, all against a backdrop of festivities and live music.

artwalkalpine.com

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.

visitmarblefalls.org/christmas-season

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.

destinationbryan.com

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.

lulingcc.org

Dickman Hall, 1 McClernand Road

For six weeks, the Smithsonian’s Spark! Places of Innovation exhibition anchors an exciting season of local programming across Kinney County. This nationally traveling exhibit explores how innovation in rural America has shaped communities and how people turn challenges into solutions that transform towns for generations.

fortclark.com

Panther Island Pavilion, 395 Purcey St.

Experience beautiful run courses along the Trinity River, surrounded by stunning fall foliage. After the race, head to the Shack for a festive afterparty with pumpkin spice coffee, hot chocolate, ice-cold beer, pumpkin spice treats, and live music.

runproject.org/pumpkin-spice-race

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.

royaltheater.org/opry2.html

Grapevine Convention Center, 1209 S. Main St.

See live animals from around the world, purchase pets and pet products direct from the experts, and learn about reptiles and exotic animals.

grapevinetexasusa.com/event/repticon/41409/

Pioneer Museum , 325 W. Main St.

The 67th annual Gillespie County Historic Home Tour and Market showcases eight homes in Gillespie County as well as a holiday market. All properties are self-guided with docents available to answer any questions.

visitfredericksburgtx.com/events/67th-annual-historic-home-tour

The Sheepwalk Ranch, 5305 SH 173 North

Shop local at this farm and artisan market hosted by Wool and Wildflower Mercantile. Browse fresh farm goods, handcrafted items, artisan products, and unique finds from local vendors—all set against the scenic backdrop of the Texas Hill Country.

sheepwalkranch.com

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.

kerrvilletx.gov

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.

discoverdenison.com/events

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.

events.visitplano.com/event/plano-holiday-market-2026

Downtown, 105 S. Main St.

Sip and shop your way through historic downtown Bryan during this annual event that benefits Voices for Children.

destinationbryan.com

Gulf Coast Bird Observatory, 299 SH 332 West

Watch volunteers collect baseline data on bird populations at the sanctuary. The banding station is an excellent opportunity to see birds up close and to learn all the birds of the Brazosport area.

gcbo.org

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.

ljhistory.org

Doris Williams Civic Center Plaza, 333 SH 332

Kick off the holiday season with a carnival, games, a parade, entertainment, and other festivities.

lakejackson-tx.gov

Center for the Arts and Sciences, 400 College Blvd.

This event offers an opportunity to experience planetarium shows, demonstrations, and night sky viewing through telescopes to see the moon, planets and other interesting night sky objects.

brazosportcenter.org

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.

visitgiddings.com

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.

fortworthparadeoflights.org

Mansfield Park Arena, 2886 SH 16 North

Come see barrel racing at Mansfield Park, presented by Riding on Faith. Watch as the talented youth show the adults how it’s done.

ridingonfaithrodeo.com

Frontier Times Museum, 510 13th St.

Kick up your boots at the jamboree held every fourth Sunday of the month. Enjoy an afternoon of live music with the Frontier Times Troubadours, along with wild stories and great company.

frontiertimesmuseum.org

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.

pipecreekchristmastrees.com

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.

lakejackson-tx.gov

Comanche Trace, 3074 Bandera Highway

This scenic 5K through the beautiful Hill Country community is a healthy way to kick off the holidays.

athleteguild.com

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.

turkeytrotportaransas.com

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.

lakejacksonturkeytrot.com

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.

prairielights.org

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.

birdiestfestival.org

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.

visit.georgetown.org

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.

llanostarrystarrynights.com

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

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.

dickensonmain.com

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.

banderacowboycapital.com

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.

brazosportcenter.org

Bass Concert Hall, 2350 Robert Dedman Drive

A live orchestra performs Bear McCreary’s acclaimed score from the television show, “Outlander,” while highlights from eight seasons illuminate the screen. Relive Claire and Jamie’s journey as Scotland’s Celtic sound takes the spotlight.

texasperformingarts.org/event/outlander-in-concert-2026-bass-concert-hall-austin-texas

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.

visit.georgetown.org/shop-small-cocoa-crawl

Downtown, 200 E. Main St.

Sip festive holiday wassail as you explore downtown shops.

visitnacogdoches.org

Cave Without a Name , 325 Kreutzberg Road

The a cappella quartet performs sounds of the Christmas season with contemporary classics and beloved carols. Tinsel’s roster of professional singers includes Grammy winners and classically trained vocalists. From classical to contemporary, the group’s original arrangements of holiday favorites sparkle with sophistication while respecting tradition.

cavewithoutaname.com

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.

visitjeffersontexas.com

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.

hometownholidays.com

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.

emilyann.org/trailoflights.html

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.

bonhamchamber.com

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.

tradersvillage.com/grand-prairie

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.

cowancenter.org

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.

discovertemple.com

Amarillo Civic Center, 401 S. Buchanan St.

The Amarillo Farm and Ranch Show brings together agriculture professionals, equipment exhibitors, and industry experts for one of the region’s largest agricultural trade events.

amarillofarmshow.com

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.

cityofwinnsboro.org

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.

lulingmainstreet.com

Downtown , Polk Street, 11th to Fourth avenues

The holidays shine extra bright as colorful floats, lights, and music light up downtown Amarillo.

centercity.org/lightparade

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.

bonhamchamber.com

Wimberley Lions Field, 601 FM 2325

Held on the first Saturday of each month from March through December, Wimberley Market Days is one of the largest and most beloved outdoor markets in the Texas Hill Country. Set beneath the shade of towering oak trees, the event features nearly 500 vendor booths offering antiques, handmade goods, art, jewelry, clothing, plants, and unique vintage finds. Visitors can enjoy live music at three stages, 10 distinct food concessions, and a small-town atmosphere.

wimberleymarketday.com

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.

facebook.com/bonhamchamber

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.

bonhamchamber.com

Karnes City Park, 302 S. Browne St

Celebrate the 11th annual Founders Day with family fun for all ages. The event transforms this South Texas town into a vibrant hub of community, culture, and live entertainment. with a color run in the morning, live entertainment, vendors, food trucks, carnival rides, dummy roping, fireworks, and both Tejano and country music artists.

cityofkctx.com

Amarillo Civic Center, 401 S. Buchanan St.

Lone Star Ballet presents the holiday classic and beloved Amarillo tradition.

lonestarballet.org/season-of-dance

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.

destinationbryan.com

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.

fairfieldtexaschamber.com