Upcoming Events in Piney Woods

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

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

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

Tyler State Park , 789 Park Road 16

Celebrate the season at Parktober, a fall festival filled with family-friendly activities, autumn fun, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy Tyler’s parks. Get outside and soak up the sights and sounds of fall in East Texas.

tpwd.texas.gov/calendar/tyler/parktober-trick-or-treat

Tiger Creek , 17552 FM 14

Families can enjoy festive activities, vendors, candy, Halloween costumes, and a chance to celebrate the spooky season with some of Tyler’s favorite furry residents.

tigercreek.org/events

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

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

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

Lindsey Park , 12557 SH 364 Spur West

Soccer teams from across the region come together in Tyler for the 45th annual Brookshire’s Fall Kickoff. The tournament brings competitive youth soccer, enthusiastic fans, and a lively weekend of sports to East Texas.

tylersoccer.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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Liberty Hall , 103 E. Erwin St.

Red Dirt Comedy presents an evening with comedian William Lee Martin as his Seemed Smart at the Time comedy tour comes to Liberty Hall. Known for his relatable, clean humor, and four comedy specials, Martin brings his take on life, family, and the questionable decisions we all make.

libertytyler.org

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

Downtown, 100 E. Main St.

The tradition of ribbon cane syrup making is commemorated at the annual Heritage Syrup Festival, held the second Saturday of November. The highlight of the only folk life festival in East Texas is the syrup making demonstration on the Depot Museum grounds. Experienced syrup makers operate the museum’s antique mule-powered equipment to produce old-fashioned cane syrup. While the syrup cooks, other folk artists demonstrate the techniques of lace making, rope making, basket making, blacksmithing, wood carving, quilting, and other old-time survival skills. Folk singers entertain, antique tractors whine, and a petting zoo and local civic organizations offer a varied selection of food and beverages.

facebook.com/heritagesyrupfestival

Cowan Center , 3900 University Blvd.

Food, science, and comedy come together for an entertaining evening with television personality, author, and culinary personality Alton Brown. Expect a lively mix of storytelling, culinary curiosity and the trademark humor that has made Brown a household name.

cowancenter.org

Cowan Center , 3900 University Blvd.

Join Curious George on a deliciously fun musical adventure as the little monkey searches for the Golden Meatball. This family-friendly production brings the beloved children’s character to life with music, laughter, and plenty of monkey business.

cowancenter.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

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

Downtown, 200 E. Main St.

Sip festive holiday wassail as you explore downtown shops.

visitnacogdoches.org

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

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

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

Van Cliburn Auditorium, 1000 Brook Drive

This fall, the Texas Shakespeare Festival joins forces once again with Kilgore College Theatre to create a show featuring both professional and student actors. Dying too young on her wedding day, Eurydice must journey to the underworld, where she reunites with her father and struggles to remember her lost love. With contemporary characters, plot twists, and a script written to be a playground for designers, the play is a fresh look at a timeless love story.

texasshakespeare.com

City of Liberty—Hall Square, 1829 Sam Houston St.

More than 112,000 warm lights are strewn from massive oak trees and city and courthouse buildings. A Christmas parade adds more sparkle with over 80 lighted entries, plus there’s children’s make-and-take projects, a live nativity, festive photo ops, and local talent.

lightsinliberty.org

Various locations

Historical homes normally not open to the public are lavishly decorated for an old-fashioned Christmas, with live greenery, candlelight, and trees adorned with tinsel, ribbon, and sparkling glass balls. Docents in period costumes greet visitors and describe each home’s origins and finery.

jeffersoncandlelight.com

Downtown, 104 E. Commerce St.

Magical Mineola is Mineola’s annual Christmas celebration, transforming historic downtown into a festive holiday destination for an entire weekend of holiday fun. Activities include a tree lighting, hot chocolate, snow hills, family-friendly activities, holiday attractions, shopping, a parade, and a tour of homes.

mineola.com

Millard’s Crossing Historic Village, 6020 North St.

Guests experience live Christmas caroling, a photo op with Santa, hayrides, a special Christmas tree lighting, face painting, a hot cocoa bar, food, lots of holiday demos, and crafts.

visitnacogdoches.org/events/millards-crossing-old-fashioned-christmas/6a95dfdc86787426fc417231

Downtown

The Wonderland of Lights Parade is a cherished holiday tradition. Every year, a new parade theme is announced, inspiring the community to come together and participate in a festive showcase of creativity and hometown pride.

marshalltexas.com/events/wonderland-of-lights-parade

Texas Jailhouse, 704 Avenue A

Meet the Grinch this Christmas at the Texas Jailhouse in Palestine. Step into his festive lair for a live, interactive holiday adventure full of mischief, laughter, and a touch of Whoville magic.

txjailhouse.com/products/grinchs-lair-1

Downtown , 825 W. Spring St.

Palestine’s largest parade lights up the night with a dazzling display of lights adorning floats. Head to downtown Palestine for the mile-long train of festive fun and a visit from Santa himself.

visitpalestine.com/mainstreet

Downtown , Main Street

Main Street shines with the Christmas Parade of Lights, dazzling floats, and festive cheer. While downtown, shop unique gifts, savor local dining, and stroll twinkling streets adorned with murals, sculptures, and Christmas décor for a truly enchanting celebration.

visitpalestine.com/mainstreet

Downtown, 200 E. Main St.

The Nine Flags Christmas Festival is a magical holiday tradition that brings festive cheer to the oldest town in Texas. Enjoy twinkling holiday lights, a dazzling Christmas parade, live entertainment, crafting, shopping, carols, and more.

visitnacogdoches.org/nine-flags-christmas-festival

Downtown, 400 E. Houston Ave.

Step back in time during Crockett’s Holiday Tour of Homes and experience the beauty and warmth of some of the community’s most cherished historic homes, lovingly decorated for the season.

discovercrocketttx.com

Town Square, 104 S. Main St.

Bring the family out for a winter festival celebration filled with vendors, live music, a parade, and activities.

lindentxchamber.org

Dodson Auditorium, 817 Nolen St.

Celebrate the holiday season with the Kilgore College Rangerettes at their beloved annual Christmas Show, featuring dazzling choreography, festive music, and plenty of Christmas spirit. There are two performances in the afternoon.

rangerette.com/events/christmas-show

Forest Home Baptist Church, 15746 CR 173 North

Experience the Christmas story at the Forest Home Baptist Church Drive-Through Nativity, featuring more than 150 cast members across 13 scenes, including the Nativity, the Shepherds, and a biblical marketplace. There’s also Santa’s Workshop to visit. This free East Texas tradition runs in the evening and includes complimentary hot chocolate.

fhbckilgore.org/drive-through-nativity

Chamber of Commerce, 401 W. Main St.

Enjoy a festive afternoon exploring beautifully decorated homes-each decked out for the holidays and filled with inspiration, charm, and cheer. Each stop on the tour offers a unique glimpse of holiday style and local character.

palestinechamber.org/holiday-home-tour

Mission Dolores State Historic Site, 701 S. Broadway St.

The East Texas Spanish mission site has crafts, food and drink, Santa and Mrs. Claus, faux snowball fights, and heritage events at the site museum. Visitors can stroll along the festive Trail of Lights and stop for photo ops.

visitmissiondolores.com

Downtown, 14264 Liberty St.

Step into the charm and history of one of Texas’ oldest communities. The morning kicks off with the Lone Star Christmas Parade. Set in the heart of historic Montgomery, this festive day invites visitors to shop a holiday vendor market, enjoy the famous Cookie Walk, tour beautifully decorated historic homes, and experience the small-town warmth that makes Montgomery especially memorable at Christmastime.

mhs-tx.org/events

Downtown , East Pacific Avenue

In the air there’s a feeling of Christmas as the Gladewater Chamber of Commerce hails the coming of the holiday season and offers a warm winter welcome to all East Texas visitors with a gigantic Christmas parade. Antique cars, firetrucks, horses, queens, dignitaries, and floats are all participating.

gladewaterchamber.org

Palestine High School Auditorium, 1600 Loop 256 South

Join the community for an enchanting afternoon filled with the joyous sounds of the season. The Anderson County Community Chorus proudly presents The Sounds of Christmas, a festive concert that warms hearts and lifts spirits.

Various locations, 200 E. Main St.

Tour the beautiful homes and historic structures of Nacogdoches this Christmas season.

visitnacogdoches.org/nine-flags-christmas-festival

Winnsboro Farmers Market Pavillions, 111 E. Carnegie St.

The winter market stays open every Saturday morning from November through March. Explore stalls filled with crisp storage crops, winter squash, microgreens, fresh baked goods, pasture-raised meats, and warm artisan soups.

winnsborofarmersmarket.com

The Bowery, Market Street

This market brings makers, artists and craftspeople together in the heart of historical downtown Winnsboro. Visitors can stroll the pedestrian-friendly Bowery while browsing one-of-a-kind, handcrafted goods from local and regional artisans. Along with live music, the market lets visitors spend the day discovering the creativity and character of East Texas.

winnsborofarmersmarket.com

Winnsboro Center for the Arts, 200 Market St.

The Winnsboro Players perform this holiday story—but with a twist. Every year the Winnsboro Center for the Arts presents a different adaptation of this Charles Dickens’ holiday ghost story. From musicals to radio plays to modern takes, each year brings a new feel.

winnsborocenterforthearts.com/performance/a-christmas-carol

Texas Theatre, 213 W. Crawford St.

Sing classic Christmas carols and share an evening with family and friends at the Texas Theatre.

texastheatrepalestine.com

Winnsboro Farmers Market Pavillions, 111 E. Carnegie St.

The third annual Country Christmas Market features farmers and crafters set up with plenty of local goods and handmade items for Christmas shopping, along with the other merchandise and goods you expect to find at the market. DJ Cormican plays festive music, Santa is available for photos, and the carolers fill the market with Christmas songs. There’s also free hot cocoa.

winnsborofarmersmarket.com

Jefferson Visitor Center, 305 E. Austin St.

Enjoy a festive evening filled with food, live music, dancing, Mardi Gras costumes and beads, and the crowning of the 2027 Mardi Gras King and Queen.

visitjeffersontexas.com/events

Downtown

Join in for a vibrant and colorful parade featuring lively music, dazzling floats, and a festive atmosphere buzzing with excitement and family fun. Explore the charming streets of downtown Palestine, and immerse yourself in a celebration that combines the rich traditions of Mardi Gras with the unique hospitality of Texas.

visitpalestine.com

Various locations, Downtown

The Krewe of Hebe presents this year’s Jefferson Mardi Gras, with a whole weekend of festivities including parades, live music, food, vendors, a carnival, frosty beverages, masks, and beads.

mardigrasupriver.com

Texas Theatre, 213 W. Crawford St.

“The Importance of Being Earnest” is a comedic play that explores themes of identity, social expectations, and the nature of truth and deception. The plot follows two main characters, Algernon Moncrieff and Jack Worthing, who both lead double lives to escape societal constraints.

pctboxoffice.com