A note regarding COVID-19
Abilene
“Full Steam Ahead: The Texas and Pacific Railway”
July 13-July 5
The Grace Museum, 102 Cypress St.
This exhibition highlights the history of the Texas and Pacific Railway in Abilene through several artifacts from the museum’s permanent collection. See the impact of the railroad on the growth of the city and the people who built the tracks and buildings, worked for the railway, and utilized the train’s services.
Houston
“Tacita Dean: Blind Folly”
Oct. 11-April 19
The Menil Collection, 1533 Sul Ross St.
The first major museum survey in the United States of work by the British European visual artist Tacita Dean, the exhibition spotlights her career-defining approach to creating art through unmediated and chance-based drawing processes across a variety of mediums, from film to printmaking.
Arlington
Symphony Arlington in Concert
Oct. 17, Nov. 14, Dec. 19, Jan. 16, Feb. 13, March 13, April 17, May 8
Arlington Music Hall, 224 N. Center St.
Symphony Arlington celebrates its silver jubilee with a season of concerts featuring Spanish pianist Daniel del Pino, Argentinian bass-baritone Federico De Michelis, American violinist Luke Hsu, and Canadian pianist Marika Bournaki. Other shows include Dallas pianist Eldred Marshall premiering “Llano Estacado” by Dallas composer Michael Capps.
Austin
“Freedom to Write, Freedom to Read: The Story of PEN”
Nov. 2-Aug. 18
Harry Ransom Center, 300 W. 21st St.
The Harry Ransom Center presents an exhibition exploring the history of PEN, the renowned international association dedicated to protecting free expression. The exhibition draws upon the Center’s PEN Records collection in order to trace the history of the organization from its founding as a dinner club in 1921, through the darkest days of war and repression, to supporting contemporary writers and readers today. The exhibition allows visitors to engage with key moments from the story of PEN, showing how writers need freedom of expression in order to produce inspiring work, and how, in turn, readers need to be free to choose what they read.
Houston
“Joe Overstreet: Taking Flight”
Jan 24-July 13
The Menil Collection, 1533 Sul Ross St.
This is the first major museum exhibition in 30 years devoted to the work of the pioneering abstract painter. Renowned for his innovative approach to non-representational painting, American artist Joe Overstreet consistently sought to intertwine abstraction and social politics.
Rockport
Performing Arts Series at the ROCC
Feb. 7-May 9
Randall Ewing Kemper Hall at The ROCC, 106 S. Austin St.
The Performing Arts Series at the Rockport Conference Center offers a variety of musical artists and genres each month. This season’s lineup features Texas Trio (Feb. 7), Doc Watkins (March 14), Luke Bulla (April 11), and Bruce Robison (May 9). All shows include VIP and general admission seating, available online through the Rockport Center for the Arts website, with ticket prices and availability varying by performance.
El Paso
“Tom Lea and Contemporaries”
Feb. 15-Dec. 31
El Paso Museum of Art, 1 Arts Festival Plaza
Tom Lea was one of the most prolific Southwestern artists of the 20th century. This exhibit features landscapes, portraits, and mural studies that highlight the correspondence between artists to tell the story of a tightly knit creative community, which made El Paso a central point for rich cultural exchange. Along with Lea, artists include Manuel Acosta, Lois Denton, Freemont Ellis, Leola Freeman, Carl Hertzog, Peter Hurd, Ada Miller, Audley Dean Nicols, Urbici Soler, and Henriette Wyeth. A gallery tour with Adair Margo, founder of the Tom Lea Institute, takes place on Oct. 10.
Kerrville
Kerr County Market Days and Hill Country Swap Meet
March 1, April 5, May 3, June 7
Hill Country Youth Event Center, 3785 SH 27
Market Days features artists and crafters bringing their own original handcrafted items. Hill Country Swap Meet is a community garage sale/flea market.
Kerr Arts and Cultural Center Art Exhibits
March 6-April 5
Kerr Arts and Cultural Center, 228 Earl Garrett St.
View three separate art exhibits on display, one featuring works by the Texas Woodcarvers Guild, then the Monday Artists Exhibit and the Kerr Arts and Cultural Center Membership Show.
Boerne
Family Night Hike
March 7, April 4, May 2
Cibolo Center for Conservation, 140 City Park Road
Hit the trails at sunset and discover the various creatures that call the Cibolo home. Family Night Hikes are great ways for children and families to explore the center and see what lives in the park in the dark.
Rockport
Rising Eyes of Texas Exhibition
March 7-April 20
Rockport Center for the Arts, 204 S. Austin St.
Every year, Rockport Center for the Arts hosts a statewide, juried exhibition for undergraduate and graduate students emerging in the visual arts. Meet the artists at a reception on March 8.
San Marcos
Art Squared Arts Market
March 8, April 12, May 10
Hays County Historic Courthouse, 111 E. San Antonio St.
This arts and fine crafts market brings the best local artists together in one place. Find art of all kinds, live music, a free arts and crafts booth for kids, and live art demonstrations.
Grand Prairie
“Disaster The Musical”
March 14-23
Uptown Theater, 120 E. Main St.
Prepare for a tidal wave of laughter at this jukebox musical that parodies 1970s disaster films. Packed with songs, outrageous comedy, and larger-than-life characters, this show is a campy, feel-good experience. From earthquakes to infernos, the chaos never ends.
Fort Davis
Davis Mountains Preserve Open Weekends
March 14-16, July 11-13, Aug. 22-24, Nov. 7-9
Davis Mountains Preserve , State Highway 118 North (about 10 miles past McDonald Observatory)
The Nature Conservancy’s Davis Mountains Preserve—home to Mount Livermore and Baldy Peak—is closed to the public for research and conservation-related management activities throughout the majority of the year. However, the preserve opens for camping, hiking, biking, equestrian, picnics, photography, birding, and other outdoor activities on select weekends throughout the year. All are invited, no reservation required.
nature.org/en-us/get-involved/how-to-help/events/tx-davis-mountains-open-days
Mckinney
Bugs Live
March 15-June 29
Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary, 1 Nature Place
Visitors have the opportunity to explore larger-than-life animatronic insects and arachnids, strategically positioned along the nature trails of the Heard. This unique exhibit offers a compelling conservation experience designed to deepen the understanding of these fascinating creatures and their vital roles in the ecosystem.
Sweetwater
Rattlesnake Gravel Grind
March 19-23
Lake Sweetwater, Country Road 264
The Rattlesnake Gravel Grind benefits the volunteer fire department of Nolan County and takes riders on tours of the scenic areas around Lake Sweetwater as well as farm and ranch roads around Bird Nest Canyon, Happy Valley, Mulberry Canyon, and Panther Canyon. Route distances range from 111, 66, and 32 miles. After the event, enjoy beer, food, and live music.
Kerrville
Summit in the Hills
March 20-23
Rev your engines for the ultimate sportbike rally of the Hill Country, hosted by Texas Sportbike Moto Rallies. Join fellow enthusiasts for adrenaline-pumping group rides through scenic routes, stunt shows, live music, camping, and raffles. Registration takes place at Kerr County Youth Event Center.
Round Top
Spring Antiques Show
March 20-April 6
Various locations
More than dusty relics and shabby chic signage, the antiques show has over 65 venues in about a 20-mile radius in the communities of Round Top, Warrenton, Carmine, Burton, and Fayetteville. Over two weeks, people from across the United States come to shop for treasures and enjoy a festival of epic proportions, with food and fun in the Texas countryside.
Tyler
Azalea and Spring Flower Trail
March 21-April 6
Goodman Museum, 624 N. Broadway Ave.
Each spring Tyler celebrates the season with more than 10 miles of residential gardens and historic homesites covered with azaleas, tulips, wisteria, dogwood, and other flowers. This annual spring event has been described as a floral wonderland and a photographer’s paradise.
Liberty
Jubilee
March 21-22
Downtown Liberty, 1829 Sam Houston St.
This small town family festival is held around the historic downtown area and opens with various food vendors, arts and crafts vendors, and the Liberty Municipal Library’s book and bake sale. Friday evening features a street dance. Judging for the barbecue cookoff takes place on Saturday. There is also a stage with live entertainment and children’s games and rides.
Abilene
Outlaws and Legends Music Fest
March 21-22
Back Porch of Texas, 3350 N. Clack St.
Calling itself “The Biggest One-Stage Event in Texas,” this annual music festival features a lineup this year that includes Clint Black, Ella Langley, Don Felder, the Wallflowers, Mark Powell, and Blackhawk. Different ways to enjoy the festival include general admission tickets, tailgate and party packages, and RVing in the park.
Houston
“What drawing can be: four responses”
March 21-Aug. 10
Menil Drawing Institute, 1412 W. Main St.
See site-specific installations by Jillian Conrad, Teresita Fernández, Tony Lewis, and Constantin Luser, who each have an individual gallery space to explore the experimental potential of the medium.
Austin
The Bloody Mary Festival
March 22
Fair Market, 1100 E. Fifth St.
The sixth annual Bloody Mary Festival includes the best bloody marys from around the city. Taste and enjoy them and then vote for your fave to help crown Best Bloody Mary in Austin. Tickets include unlimited bloody marys, spirits, beer, food, temporary tattoos, and photo ops.
Plano
Texas Forever Fest
March 22
Haggard Park, 901 E. 15th St.
Come celebrate the food, music, and people of Texas. Enjoy live music, entertainment, activities, food, drinks, and vendors all influenced by Texas’ spirit and diverse culture.
Boerne
Music in the Cave: Spring Equinox with Rudi and the Rudiments
March 22
Cave Without a Name Throne Room, 325 Kreutzberg Road
Enjoy an evening of contemporary acoustic music, soaring vocal harmonies, and a percussive tribal, world-beat vibe performed on an unusual mix of ancient and modern instruments, all focused on the theme of the spring equinox as a time of rebirth and renewed energy.
Huntsville
Herb Festival at the Wynne Home
March 22
Wynne Home Arts and Visitors Center, 1428 11th St.
Hosted by the Texas Thyme Unit, the festival is an annual showcase for locally grown herbs, perennials, native plants, vegetables, and bulbs. Speakers, herbal and garden vendors, music, and children’s activities round out the day’s events. The historic Wynne Home Arts and Visitors Center and its current art exhibition are also open to visitors.
Bandera
Frontier Times Fourth Sunday Jamboree
March 23
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.
Groesbeck
Limestone County Fair
March 24-29
Limestone County Fairgrounds, 922 N. Tyus St., State Highway 14 and FM 1245 East
The Limestone County Fair Association hosts its annual fair and livestock show, with attractions that include an opening weekend barbecue cookoff and concert, a carnival, a pet show, vendors, and a calf scramble.
Amarillo
FIRST Robotics Competition
March 27-29
Amarillo Civic Center, 401 S. Buchanan St.
This competition brings together high school students worldwide to design, program, and compete with industrial-size robots in a new game challenge. Teams collaborate, innovate, and showcase their engineering skills in a vibrant, competitive atmosphere that promotes STEM education and teamwork.
Bandera
Thunder In the Hill Country
March 27-30
Mansfield Park, 2886 SH 16 North
Come celebrate the 23rd annual event consisting of tent camping, a poker run, vendors, food, field events, music all day Friday and Saturday, a bike show, a tattoo contest, and and other festivities.
Abilene
Nancy Newberry: “Extraños Magníficos”
March 27-Sept. 20
The Grace Museum, 102 Cypress St.
This exhibition displays works by Nancy Newberry, a photographer who draws inspiration from classic spaghetti western movies, merging documentary portrayals with dreamlike creations that investigate notions of nationalism and community.
Brenham
10 Minute Play Fest
March 28
Dr. W. W. O’Donnell Performing Arts Center, 600 Blinn Blvd.
Join the Blinn College-Brenham Theatre Arts Program for an evening of original 10-minute plays designed to inspire, enlighten, and entertain audiences.
Tyler
Historic Tyler on Tour
March 28-30
Various locations, Pollard Neighborhood
Each spring during the Azalea Trail, see inside some of Tyler’s landmark houses as you stroll through the city’s first historic district. A candlelight garden party and tour kicks off the annual weekend (held at 3117 Dinah Lane in the Pollard Neighborhood). Enjoy hors d’oeuvres, libations, live music, a photo booth, and a tour of a 1955 International Ranch style home. The next day features tours of midcentury homes including a 1949 International Ranch, a 1952 Colonial Revival Ranch, and a 1955 Colonial Revival Ranch. Some of the homes are residential designs by noted architects E. Davis Wilcox and Carl Gregory.
Grand Prairie
Nitty Gritty Dirt Band in Concert
March 28
Texas Trust CU Theatre at Grand Prairie, 1001 Texas Trust Way
The legendary group stops in Grand Prairie on its All the Good Times: The Farewell Tour. Don’t miss one final opportunity to see the iconic band perform their classic hits.
San Antonio
Night of Artists
March 28-May 11
Briscoe Western Art Museum, 210 W. Market St.
One of the premier Western art events in the world, “Night of Artists” is an invitational art exhibition that includes the viewing and sale of new works of painting, sculpture, and mixed media by today’s leading contemporary Western artists.
Lake Jackson
Brew on the Bayou
March 29
Gulf Coast Bird Observatory, 299 SH 332 West
Sample specialty brews from local breweries as well as wines. Listen to live music, grab a bite to eat from local food trucks, and check out items in the silent auction. The beautiful wooded grounds at the Gulf Coast Bird Observatory are lit by torchlight, making it a perfect spot to enjoy the event.
Goliad
Goliad Massacre and Living History Program
March 29-30
Presidio La Bahia State Historic Site, 217 Loop 71
The 39th annual event features a reenactment of the battle of Coleto Creek, which took place 10 miles east of Presidio La Bahia when Col. Fannin’s command was ordered to retreat and join with the main body of Texas troops under Gen. Sam Houston. Visitors can walk through reenactor camps, visit other historic sites, and wander the grounds of Presidio La Bahia. Saturday offers a nighttime candlelight tour.
thc.texas.gov/events/39th-annual-goliad-massacre-and-living-history-program
Houston
Bayou City Art Festival Downtown
March 29-30
Sam Houston Park, 1000 Bagby
This festival celebrates more than 50 years of providing unique art experiences and education for the greater Houston area. As the nation’s premier spring outdoor art festival, the festival provides attendees with the opportunity to meet artists, view original works, and purchase one-of-a-kind art, prints, jewelry, sculptures, and functional art. The event also offers live entertainment, a food truck park, a craft beer and wine garden, and beverage stations throughout the festival.
Llano
Llano River Chuckwagon Cookoff
April 3-5
Badu Park, 300 Legion Drive
Every year since 2005, chuckwagon enthusiasts have gathered on the banks of the Llano River and gone back in time to an era when the West was settled. Each wagon cooks and serves a meal of using traditional cooking methods from that era, wear traditional dress, and experience traditional neighborly fun as they compete for prizes in a number of categories.
Fort Worth
Fort Worth Food and Wine Festival
April 3-6
Heart of the Ranch at Clearfork, 5000 Clearfork Main St.
The Fort Worth Food and Wine Festival returns with an indulgent ode to the city’s diverse community of chefs and food artisans, craft brewers, winemakers, and distillers. With gourmet eats, craft drinks, and live beats, take a thrilling ride through North Texas’ finest culinary offerings.
Giddings
Rodeo Giddings
April 4-5
Lee County Sheriffs Posse Rodeo Arena, 2591 US 290
Are you ready for a rootin’ tootin’ good time? Rodeo Giddings rolls into town with bareback bronc riding, bull riding, steer wrestling, team calf roping, a calf scramble, and mutton bustin’.
San Marcos
Studio Tour
April 4-6, 12-13
Various Locations, 20027 San Marcos Highway 80
Art lovers and artists alike can explore the city’s colorful and creative side during the San Marcos Studio Tour. Visit featured studios on the tour map and see a group exhibition at MotherShip Studios for works from participating artists.
Kerrville
Texas Woodcarver’s Guild Spring Roundup
April 4-11
Hill Country Youth Event Center, 3785 SH 27
The guild hosts its annual event featuring vendors; seminars on carving in the round, relief carving, and chip carving; exhibitors; a show and sale; and the Texas State Woodcarving Championship.
Buda
Buda’s Birthday Music Festival
April 4-6
Downtown Buda & Buda Amphitheater, 204 San Antonio St.
Join this citywide birthday bash that transforms downtown Buda into a hub of music, food, art, and entertainment for all ages. The event includes a carnival, a craft market, food vendors, live music, and the Blues Brunch on Sunday at various downtown restaurants.
Llano
Fiddle Fest and Open Fiddle Contest and Concert
April 5-6
John L. Kuykendall Events Center and Arena, 2200 W. Ranch Road 152
The annual Fiddle Fest includes an open fiddle contest with youth, senior, open, and accompanist divisions. Saturday’s activities feature an evening music concert and dance with Billy Mata. The competition is free to attend while tickets need to be purchased for the concert and dance Saturday evening.
Schulenburg
Sausagefest
April 5
Downtown, 618 N. Main St.
All things sausage collide at Sausagefest. There’s the sausage toss contest, hog calling contest, children’s activities, arts and crafts vendors, dancing, food and drinks, live music, and competitions for sausage, wine, pickles, and sauerkraut. Admission is free.
Waxahachie
Scarborough Renaissance Festival
April 5-May 26
Scarborough Renaissance Festival, 2511 FM 66
Discover a 16th century English village celebrating the visit of King Henry VIII and Queen Katherine Parr, their royal court, and other guests. Visitors can enjoy full combat jousting, birds of prey exhibitions, the Mermaid Lagoon, nonstop Renaissance entertainment, an artisans’ marketplace, demonstrations, children’s knighting ceremonies, human chess matches, the Grande Parade, and themed weekends with interactive activities.
Bandera
Cowboys On Main
April 5-26
Western Trail Heritage Park, 415 Main St.
Enjoy free cowboy fun on Main Street in downtown Bandera. Activities can include chuckwagon storyteller, rides on a saddle-broke longhorn, and horse-drawn wagon tours of the town. At Western Trail Heritage Park, see reenactments from the Western Trail Gunfighters at 10 a.m. and noon.
Music Festival
April 5
Red Horse Saloon, 2440 SH 16 North
The Red Horse Saloon hosts the second annual Bandera Music Festival, an event that celebrates the Cowboy Capital of Texas’ music heritage—past, present, and future.
Quintana
Spring Fling
April 5-May 3
Quintana Neotropical Bird Sanctuary, 814 N. Lamar St.
Spring is peak migration time, so the Gulf Coast Bird Observatory hosts Spring Fling for four weeks. Volunteers and staff are available each day to help identify the migrating and resident birds as well as keep a daily list going.
Mason
Arts and Wine Festival
April 5
Mason County Downtown Square
The sidewalks of the downtown square are filled with the creations of local artists and crafters, while Mason winemakers and Texas vintners serve wines all featuring grapes from Mason County.
Bellville
Texas Select Custom Cutlery Event
April 5-6
Austin County Fair Convention and Expo, 1076 SH 159 East
Shop for that perfect handmade knife—whether it’s for cooking, hunting, everyday carry, or a one-of-a-kind collectible—at this annual knife show, the largest gathering of custom knifemakers in the Greater Houston area. Meet competitors from the History Channel’s “Forged in Fire” and see bladesmiths participate in live forging demonstrations and the chopping competition.
Marble Falls
Paint the Town Plein Air Art Festival
April 6-12
Lakeside Park, 305 Buena Vista Drive
Plein air artists from across the nation work in various media to capture the outdoor sights and scenes of historic Marble Falls. With a pop-up gallery, live plein air painting, free art demonstrations, and a Student Art Day, there is so much to do to get fully immersed in the event.
Amarillo
World Championship Blacksmith Competition
April 9-12
Amarillo National Center, 3301 SE 10th Ave.
The competition brings skilled blacksmiths from around the globe to compete in forging, shaping, and crafting metalwork masterpieces. This intense competition highlights artistry and craftsmanship, celebrating the tradition and skill of blacksmithing at its finest.
Fort Worth
Main Street Fort Worth Arts Festival
April 10-13
Downtown, Main Street
Ranked the No.3 fine arts event in the country, the always-free Main Street Fort Worth Arts Festival caters to the whole family, showcasing over 200 jury-selected visual artists, live music, local cuisine, the family-friendly TCC Makers Zone, craft beer, and wine tastings across 18 square blocks throughout downtown.
Amarillo
West Texas Ranch Rodeo
April 11-12
Amarillo National Center, 3301 SE 10th Ave.
The rodeo showcases authentic ranching skills, with teams from across the region competing in events like bronc riding, cattle sorting, and branding. This high-energy event celebrates the rugged heritage and traditions of West Texas ranch life.
El Paso
Comic Con
April 11-13
El Paso Convention Center, One Civic Center Plaza
This pop culture event brings the best in entertainment to West Texas, with celebrity guest panels, autograph signings, photo ops, gaming competitions, cosplay, contests, special events, and KidCon.
Grapeland
Salmon Lake Park Bluegrass Fun Pick
April 11-13
Salmon Lake Park, 247 Salmon Lake Road
This event provides musicians of all levels a chance to join a vibrant community of bluegrass lovers for a laid-back weekend of camping and pickin’.
Salado
Porch and Planet Festival
April 11-13
Salado Main Street, 601 N. Main St.
This event combines live music with Earth Day activities. Locations include front porches, stoops, yards, or driveways of businesses along Main Street from Salado Plaza Drive to College Hill Drive and on Royal and Rock streets. Various businesses host a plant sale and barbecue cookoff, and there’s an Environmental Fair at Salado Civic Center.
Pilot Point
Easter Egg Hunt and Flower Festival
April 12
Pilot Point Historic Square, 107 W. Main St.
Bring the kiddos to Old City Park for a madcap search of more than 6,000 Easter eggs and photo ops with the Easter Bunny. Then, head to the square for the Flower Festival, where local nurseries, landscapers, gardeners, and vendors are on hand selling plants and helping everyone get their home ready for spring.
Seguin
Texas Ladies State Championship Chili Cook Off
April 12
Max Starcke Park East Pavillion, 650 River Drive West
This prestigious cookoff is not for just the ladies—it’s also for junior miss cooks and supporting men as well. Over 300 judges participate in this event that in the past has offered live entertainment, a silent auction, raffle, and wagon drawings.
Hico
Art and Wine Festival
April 12
Various locations
Texas wineries and artists showcase their merchandise and crafts in participating downtown shops. Proceeds go to help the Hico ISD art department. There’s also an outdoor market on First Street with more offerings from local artists.
Plano
“A Walk Down Broadway”: Musical Theatre Showcase
April 12
Christ United Methodist Church, 3101 Coit Road
The show features an extended showcase from the musical “Damn Yankees” featuring the Plano Civic Chorus and performers from North Texas Performing Arts. In addition, the program offers solos and duets performed by the singers.
Galveston
ArtWalk
April 12-Dec. 13
Galveston Arts Center, 2127 The Strand
Once a month, ArtWalk celebrates local artists by transforming the historic Strand district into a lively hub for art enthusiasts. Visit galleries, boutiques, and pop-up exhibits to see a mix of unique art pieces and discover hidden gems, meet talented creators, and support Galveston’s thriving arts community.
Amarillo
National Intercollegiate Ranch and Stock Horse Association Show
April 14-16
Amarillo National Center, 3301 SE 10th Ave.
The competition brings together collegiate riders to showcase their ranching and stock-handling skills through events like reining, cow work, and trail. This event emphasizes traditional horsemanship and ranch work, highlighting the talents of the next generation of skilled riders and stockmen.
Grand Prairie
Live Thoroughbred Racing
April 17-July 13
Lone Star Park, 1000 Lone Star Parkway
A good time you can bet on. Watch the horses race past you at this beautiful major league sports entertainment attraction.
Grandview
Antique Alley Texas
April 18-20
Antique Alley Texas, 300 E. Criner St.
Go on a treasure hunt in North Central Texas. Eight cities participate: Grandview, Cleburne, Maypearl, Alvarado, Venus, Keene, Joshua, and Waxahachie. Since 1999, this biannual event has offered multiple yard sales and vendor sites in fields on East FM 4. Local antique shops, specialty stores, and eateries offer special deals. There’s also musical entertainment, food trucks, car and tractor displays, and church fundraisers.
West Columbia
Governor Hogg’s Easter Egg Hunt
April 18
Varner-Hogg Plantation State Historic Site, 1702 N. 13th St.
Brazoria County’s largest Easter egg hunts offers games, snacks, activities, a vendor market, photos with the Easter Bunny, and thousands of eggs filled with candy or small toys to be found by children ages 12 years and under.
Kerrville
Easter Bike Tour
April 18-20
Schreiner University, 2100 Memorial Blvd.
Experience the charm and hospitality of the Texas Hill Country for three days of the best riding Texas has to offer. The 52nd annual ride includes quiet, well-paved roads, fully stocked rest stops, and panoramic scenery. Routes are suitable for all categories of participants, from novices to experienced riders.
Jefferson
Outlaw Nationals Car Show
April 18-19
Downtown
Jefferson’s most popular and longest-running car show is open to all—if it runs, bring it. Activities include karaoke on Friday night, live entertainment and a live auction on Saturday night, and awards to be given out before the auction.
Greenville
Hunt County Fair
April 18-April 27
Hunt County Fairgrounds, 9800 Jack Finney Blvd.
See the talents, skills, and aspiration of Hunt County youth at this fair that promotes agricultural growth and awareness through educational programs, competitions in breeding and showing of livestock, and by promoting and supporting the education of local children by providing scholarships. There is live entertainment, food, impressive animals, and a midway of rides and attractions.
Freeport
“The Birthplace of Selena: El Nacimiento de Selena”
April 19
Freeport Historical Museum, 311 E. Park Ave.
Selena Quintanilla lived in Lake Jackson, but she was born at the Freeport Community Hospital. Learn more about Freeport in the 1970s, and the historic hospital that many Brazosport residents call their birthplace.
Fort Davis
Dark Skies Festival
April 21-26
McDonald Observatory, 3640 Dark Sky Drive
Join McDonald Observatory in celebrating far West Texas’s famous dark skies with special talks, tours, star parties, and other activities. Events are held at McDonald Observatory and locations throughout Alpine, Marfa, and surrounding communities.
Corpus Christi
Birdiest Festival in America
April 23-27
South Texas Botanical Gardens and Nature Center, 8545 S. Staples St.
Spotlighting South Texas’ peak spring migration in one of the country’s busiest flyways is the Birdiest Festival in America. The festival features birding field trips, presentations, workshops, bird walks, and educational programs by Jonathan Wood of The Raptor Project.
Fort Stockton
Big Bend Open Road Race
April 23-26
Fort Stockton Convention Center, 2181 I-10 Service Road
The most challenging open-road race in the country for more than 20 years, the Big Bend Open Road Race is a 118-mile loop from Fort Stockton to Sanderson and back that’s open to everyone older than 18. Festivities include a car show, a party at Rooney Park, and a parade through town showcasing all the cars and hot rods primed for the competition.
San Antonio
Fiesta San Antonio
April 24-May 4
Various locations
Fiesta San Antonio started in 1891 as a one-parade event to honor the memory of the heroes of the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto. Today, Fiesta is one of this nation’s premier festivals, with more than 100 local nonprofit organizations orchestrating festivities and raising funds that support the community throughout the year.
Lampasas
Riata Rodeo and LTX Barbecue Fest
April 24-26
580 Sports Complex, 2351 FM 580
There are plenty of rodeo activities to enjoy including mutton bustin’, calf roping, bronc riding, breakaway roping, team roping, a calf scramble, barrel racing, steer wrestling, and bull riding. There are also food trucks and vendors, kids activities, a queen and princess contest, trick riders, and a concert on Saturday evening. The barbecue competition on Saturday features teams vying for points, bragging rights, and awards.
Corsicana
Derrick Days
April 24-26
Downtown , Beaton Street
Celebrate Texas’ first oil boom with festivities such as a chili cookoff, live entertainment including a Battle of the Bands competition, historical tours, and a variety of vendors and food booths. Kids can look forward to carnival rides, pet adoptions, and other activities.
The Woodlands
The Chevron Championship
April 24-27
The Club at Carlton Woods, One Carlton Woods Drive
The best players on the LPGA Tour compete in the first major golf championship of the year, held on the Jack Nicklaus Signature Course at The Club at Carlton Woods. The defending champion is world No. 1 Nelly Korda.
Dale
Old Settler’s Music Festival
April 24-27
The Old Settler’s Music Festival has grown from a one-day bluegrass festival in 1987 into a nationally renowned four-day event attracting loyal music fans. The 38th festival, taking place on a 145-acre ranch located 45 minutes south of Austin and 12 miles southeast of Lockhart, hosts musical acts that include local and national favorites such as Tony Kamel & Kym Warner, Steel Betty, all-female bluegrass band Sister Sadie, Wild Child, Harvest Thieves, Jeff Plankenhorn, Del Castillo Trio, the Travelin’ McCourys, Jack Barksdale, Heartless Bastards, Yonder Mountain String Band, and mandolin phenom Sierra Hull. The family-friendly includes on-site parking, kid’s activities, a variety of food offerings, and partially electrified campgrounds.
Llano
Crawfish Open
April 25-26
Robinson Park , 123 Robinson Park Drive
Along with 28,000 pounds of crawfish, attendees can enjoy live music, a golf tournament, a gumbo cookoff, the Crawfish Motorcycle Fun Run, arts and crafts vendors, a rodeo with team roping and barrel racing, and a cornhole tournament.
Port Aransas
Texas SandFest
April 25-27
Port Aransas Beach, Between beach mile markers 9 and 13.
See amazing feats of sand art and architecture as master sculptors from all over the world come to Port Aransas to make pure magic from the sand. This is the largest master sand-sculpting competition in the United States.
Kerrville
Camerata San Antonio: “Romantic Resonances”
April 25
First Presbyterian Church, 800 Jefferson St.
The concert explores the richness and diversity of Romantic-era music, with a program that features music by Saint-Saens, Mendelssohn-Hensel, and Dohnani.
Del Rio
George Paul Memorial Xtreme Bull Riding
April 25-26
Val Verde County Fairgrounds , 2006 N. Main St.
See bull riders and bull fighters compete at the 47th annual event, named after the 1968 world champion and National Finals Rodeo winner from Del Rio.
Georgetown
Red Poppy Festival
April 25-27
Downtown, 103 W. Seventh St.
This is the 26th year that the Red Poppy Capital Of Texas has hosted this festival to celebrate the history and beauty of the city’s poppy season. Taking place in and around the historic town square, the festival features live music and arts performances, handcrafted works from local artisans, a classic car show, food, and family-friendly activities. The parade takes place Saturday morning and passes through the town square.
Linden
Wildflower Trails of Texas
April 25-26
Linden City Square, 100 E. Houston St.
The 55th annual tricity festival celebrates the wildflowers that grow between the northeast Texas towns of Linden, Avinger, and Hughes Springs. Festivities, which vary by town, include art, quilt, flower, and car shows; hot dog eating contests; bingo; parades; and live performances.
Kerrville
Roundup Exhibition and Sale
April 25-June 7
Museum of Western Art, 1550 Bandera Highway
Duplicate: The 42nd annual event features more than 150 works for sale from local, regional, and national artists.
Castroville
Alsatian Festival of Texas
April 26
Koenig Park, 1700 San Jacinto St.
Watch the Alsatian Dancers of Texas perform lively folk dances. Look up your Alsatian ancestry. Taste Alsatian cooking made with local recipes, including fresh parisa (a cured raw meat dish with cheese, peppers, onions, and spices) and Alsatian wines and beer. Castroville was founded in 1844 and is known as the “Little Alsace of Texas” and still boasts the largest population of Alsatian descendants in the nation.
Temple
Texas State Button Society Show and Sale
April 26-27
Hilton Garden Inn , 1749 Scott Blvd.
The Texas State Button Society presents its annual spring show and sale, where attendees can find buttons, buttons, and more buttons. Hosted by the Austin Button Club, the event this year is themed “Once Upon a Time...on a Button.” The public is invited to come and learn a new hobby, browse vendor tables full of buttons, and visit with knowledgeable button collectors.
Huntsville
General Sam Houston Day
April 26
Sam Houston Memorial Museum and Republic of Texas Presidential Library, 1836 Sam Houston Ave.
Step back in time for an event honoring Sam Houston and his times (1793-1863). Enjoy historical demonstrations, hands-on activities, and period music. Tour the homes the Houstons lived in while in Huntsville, gain access into the Steamboat House and the 19th-century cabins on the property.
Ingram
Stonehenge Food and Wine Festival
April 26-27
Hill Country Arts Foundation, 120 Point Theatre Road
The Hill Country Arts Foundation hosts this new event showcasing two days of music, wine, and food trucks.
Plano
Plano Symphony Orchestra Grand Finale Concert
April 26
Plano ISD Robinson Fine Arts Center, 1800 Alma Drive
The orchestra performs the world premiere of a commissioned piece by composer Xi Wang, an associate professor at SMU’s Meadows School of Arts. Special guests include internationally acclaimed pianist Alessio Bax and the Plano Civic Chorus, performing works by Strauss, Rachmaninoff, and Borodin.
Boerne
Texas Corvette Association Open Car Show
April 26
Hill Country Mile, 100 N. Main St.
More than 450 colorful Corvettes and other classic vehicles line the historic Hill Country Mile and Main Plaza, attracting car enthusiasts and guests.
Grand Prairie
“Texas Country Reporter” Festival
April 26
Downtown , 200 block of West Main Street
Grand Prairie is the new home of the “Texas Country Reporter” Festival, a one-day arts and music festival filled with live music, vendors, and family fun.
Bertram
Art, Herb, and Wine Festival
April 26-27
Enjoy a family-friendly weekend in downtown. The event features over 80 local vendors offering handcrafted artisanal items, herbal products, and wine from Texas wineries; a food court with food trucks; live music; free mini-seminars; and the 5K Wine Thyme Run.
Sugar Land
Arts and Music Fest
April 26-27
Smart Financial Centre , 18111 Lexington Blvd.
Highlighting the cultural and artistic diversity of Fort Bend County and beyond, this family-friendly event enters its fourth year with live entertainment, cuisine from local restaurants, a children’s activity tent, a wine and beer garden, 100 artist booths, and live mural painting.
Bellville
Fruehling Saengerfest
April 27
Bellville Fruehling Saengerfest, 952 S. Tesch
Originating back to 1860, this local German singing festival has live bands and German choirs at historic Concordia Hall. There are fun activities for children and adults. This is a charitable fundraiser with barbecue chicken and sausage with sauerkraut.
Del Rio
Birding the Border
May 1-4
Amistad National Recreation Area, 10477 US 90
This unique Texas birding experience connects birders with landowners. In 2025, the Birding the Border Festival returns to Del Rio where visitors have opportunities to birdwatch on private and restricted-access properties to find all kinds of bird species.
Helotes
Cornyval and PRCA Rodeo
May 1-4
Helotes Cornyval grounds, 12210 Leslie Road
This annual event features a carnival and midway with rides, games, food, and attractions; corn-eating contests; chicken bingo; racing pigs; a cornhole tournament; and a PRCA rodeo.
Marble Falls
FiestaJAM
May 1-3
Johnson Park, 230 Ave. J
Eight-time Grammy-winning Western swing band Asleep at the Wheel headlines the first spring edition of FiestaJAM, a musical celebration staged each year in Marble Falls that celebrates singer-songwriters and brings awareness to the needs of youth music education. Other performers include Ruben Ramos, Shawn Camp, and Verlon Thompson.
Jefferson
Battle for Jefferson
May 2-4
The Jeffersonian Institute , 120 E. Austin St.
The 25th annual Civil War reenactment in historic Jefferson, features two full-scale battles, period encampments throughout the historic district, student living history demonstrations, a grand ball, a ladies tea, secret codes of the underground railroad, period sutlers, and the Illumination event at Oakwood Cemetery.
Arlington
Lone Star Smokeout
May 2-4
AT&T Stadium, 1 AT&T Way
From the team behind the Windy City Smokeout and Chicago-based Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants comes the first-ever Lone Star Smokeout. Along with performances by top country artists, guests can experience a lineup of 10 of the country’s best barbecue teams and a robust craft beer program.
Bastrop
“A Legacy of Legend and Law”
May 2-June 28
Bastrop Museum and Visitor Center, 904 Main St.
This exhibit explores the history of legendary law enforcement agency the Texas Rangers, in partnership with the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum. A selection of items from the private collection of Bastrop County Sheriff and former chief of the Texas Rangers Maurice C. Cook is also on display.
New Ulm
Honeybee Jubilee
May 3
St. John Lutheran Church festival grounds, 210 Hickory Road
This springtime festival promotes and educates the public about honey bees and the nature that surrounds them. Enjoy vendors selling local honey and bee-related crafts. There are also workshops and clinics, local bee keeping clubs, native plant sales, educational groups, and food and drink, including honey beer.
Plano
AsiaFest
May 3
Haggard Park, 901 E. 15th St.
Celebrating Asian American Heritage Foundation hosts its annual Asian American heritage festival, showcasing the rich cultures of Asia through numerous cultural demonstrations, performances, and vendors.
Del Rio
Cinco de Mayo
May 5
Brown Plaza, Cantu Street
Enjoy the holiday Cinco de Mayo on the border with a festival of music, culture, and celebration.
Kilgore
Geekend
May 3-4
Downtown, 207 E. Main St.
Geeks take over downtown for the 12th annual Geekend. Family-fun activities include live performances, cosplay, games, shopping from vendors, and contests.
New Braunfels
Saengerfest
May 3
This free downtown festival features live music, family activities, downtown shopping, and food vendors, plus sampling and sales of wine and craft beer.
Fredericksburg
First Weekend at Pioneer Museum
May 3-Aug. 2
Pioneer Museum, 325 W. Main St.
On 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, handworker, and blacksmithing), the living history interpretors, and a family hands-on activity plus a scavenger hunt.
Elgin
Explore Elgin Arts and Culture Festival
May 8-11
Downtown , 109 Depot St.
Enjoy an event filled with artist demonstrations, live music, food, and hands-on activities in historic downtown Elgin. In addition, there are artist and maker markets, scheduled lectures, guided public art walks, and church sanctuary tours.
El Campo
Crawfish and Gumbo Cookoff
May 9-11
El Campo Lost Lagoon, 665 CR 451
In addition to a crawfish and gumbo cookoff, there’s also a bloody mary contest, live music, and activities for kids.
Amarillo
The Hope and Healing Place Half Marathon
May 9
Downtown , 1721 S. Tyler St.
The half-marathon whisks runners through scenic downtown, historic Oliver Eakle and Wolflin neighborhoods, past parks, and through central Amarillo.
Boerne
Moondance Outdoor Concerts
May 10
Cibolo Center for Conservation, 140 City Park Road
Moondance is a longstanding monthly outdoor concert series at the Cibolo beginning in May and running through October. Grab lawn chairs, coolers, and friends, and come enjoy live music from local bands under the oak trees.
Grand Prairie
Alton Brown
May 10
Texas Trust CU Theatre at Grand Prairie, 1001 Texas Trust Way
The famed foodist reflects on his decades in food media, presents several of his favorite culinary mega-hacks, and offers a culinary variety show that is as entertaining as it is informative.
Nacogdoches
Scottish Highland Games
May 10
Nacogdoches County Expo and Civic Center , 3805 NW Stallings Drive
At this lively celebration of Scottish and Irish heritage, visitors can enjoy live Celtic music, kilt-adorned athletes participating in traditional competitions, food, Scottish merchandise, living history demonstrations, and, of course, bagpipes.
Spring
Axiom String Quartet in Concert
May 13
The Centrum, 6823 Cypresswood Drive
The Houston-based quartet performs “Screen to Stage,” the ensemble’s favorite movie music alongside string quartets from film composers Miklós Rózsa and Erich Korngold.
Giddings
Lee County Fair
May 15-17
Lee County Fairgrounds, 2495 US 290
Enjoy live music from country crooners to indie rock bands; cold brews; local artisans offering handcrafted jewelry to funky art pieces; the Charcoal Challenge BBQ Cookoff, where pitmasters from all over Central Texas come to compete; carnival rides including an antique carousel; special days including Senior Citizens Day (Friday) and Armed Forces Day (Saturday), and a patriotic parade.
Fort Stockton
Summer Off the Patio
May 15-July 24
Annie Riggs Museum, 301 S. Main St.
This series of concerts is held every other Thursday between May 15 and July 24. Enjoy an assortment of food and drinks, a refreshing summer breeze, and local bands playing as people sing along.
Hico
Texas Steak Cookoff
May 16-17
Downtown , 101 Pecan St.
Cooks work to see who can make the best 12-ounce ribeye steak. Attendees get to enjoy a steak dinner, of course, plus there’s shopping, live entertainment, and a separate wine-tasting event.
Columbus
Magnolia Days Festival
May 16-17
Courthouse Square, 400 Spring St.
Held the third weekend in May in downtown, the festival offers live music, a family fun zone, a car show, merchandise and food vendors, a beer garden, and a presentation of the Magnolia Belles.
Grapevine
Main Street Fest
May 16-18
The 41st annual Main Street Fest, presented by Bank of the West and taking place in the heart of historic Grapevine, is a timeless Texas tradition and family-friendly festival with live music, craft brew and wine experiences, delicious food and unique shopping. Enjoy the carnival and midway, explore the KidZone and experience Texan-size fun all weekend long.
La Grange
Bluff SchuetzenFest
May 17
Kreische Brewery and Monument Hill State Historic Sites, 414 State Loop 92
Celebrate the history of the Bluff Schuetzenverein, a German marksmanship and social organization that once made its home on the grounds of Kreische Brewery and Monument Hill State Historic Sites. The day is full of entertainment, community booths, family activities, living history demonstrations, special tours, and food and drink.
Spring
Michael Cavanaugh: “Singer-Songwriter Series”
May 17
The Centrum, 6823 Cypresswood Drive
Michael Cavanaugh unveils the “Singer Songwriters Series,” his latest creation following the acclaimed “The Music of Billy Joel and Elton John” and “A Merry Rockin’ Christmas.” The Tony- and Grammy-nominated performer is known for his lead role in Billy Joel’s Broadway hit “Movin’ Out.”
Greenville
Audie Murphy Day
May 17
Audie Murphy/American Cotton Museum, 600 I-30
To honor and remember our nation’s military heroes, Audie Murphy Day is hosted by the Audie Murphy/American Cotton Museum to celebrate Audie Leon Murphy, the most decorated combat soldier of World War II, as well as military veterans and those currently serving the country. Featured speakers include Seth Paridon, host of the popular podcast The Unauthorized History of the Pacific War, and Terrance Furgerson, author of “The Dallas Story: The North American Aviation Plant and the Industrial Mobilization during WWII.” In addition, the movie “Ride Clear of Diablo” starring Murphy is shown twice at the Texan Theater on Friday.
Hillsboro
ChurroFest
May 17
Hillsboro Downtown District
The family-friendly event features inflatables for the kids, live music, vendors, food, and the Margarita Walk for anyone 21 and older.
Kerrville
Kerrville Folk Festival
May 22-June 8
Quiet Valley Ranch, 3876 Medina Highway
Enjoy 18 days and nights of music featuring songwriters of national and international acclaim. This is one of the longest continuously running music festivals in the United States and offers activities for all ages with a focus on nurturing and developing artistic expression, especially the art of songwriting, in a loving family-friendly environment.
Grapeland
Gospel Bluegrass Festival
May 22-24
Salmon Lake Park, 247 Salmon Lake Road
For the 28th year, gospel bluegrass bands gather for this Memorial Day weekend celebration at Salmon Lake Park. Bluegrass gospel artists perform uplifting songs at this beloved East Texas outdoor music festival.
Bandera
Memorial Day Stampede Rodeo
May 23-25
Mansfield Park, 2886 SH 16 North
Enjoy three nights of cowboy action at this Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association-sanctioned rodeo presented by Bandera Pro Rodeo.
Kerrville
Texas Masters of Fine Art and Craft Invitational Show
May 23-25
YO Ranch Hotel, 2033 Sidney Baker
This exhibition offers work by some of the finest professional artists and craftspeople from Texas and has established a reputation as a prestigious sale in a beautiful venue, produced and managed by the artists themselves.
Burleson
Hot Sounds of Summer Concerts
May 23, 30; June 6, 13, 20, 27
Mayor Vera Calvin Plaza, 141 W. Renfro St.
Enjoy concerts on the lawn of Burleson’s 1-acre public plaza in Old Town. BYOB and lawn chair, and relax while listening to great music.
Bandera
Memorial Day Stampede Parade and Market Days
May 24-25
Bandera County Courthouse, 500 Main St.
The annual Memorial Day weekend parade travels down Main Street on Saturday. Head to the courthouse lawn to find arts and crafts vendors at the Stampede Market Days on Saturday and Sunday.
Hunt
Crider’s Rodeo and Dancehall
May 22-Aug. 30
Crider’s Rodeo and Dancehall, 2310 SH 39
After the rodeo, there’s dancing and live music every Saturday night from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Rockport
Rockport Festival of Wine & Food
May 24
Texas Maritime Museum, 1202 Navigation Circle
Indulge with the perfect blend of wine, music, and festivities at the 28th annual festival, hosted at the Texas Maritime Museum grounds and featuring more than 75 wines, live music, and local cuisine.
Canton
First Monday Trade Days
May 1-4, 29-June 1, July 3-6, 31-Aug. 3, 28-31
Trade 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.
Cleburne
Shakespeare in the Park
May 30-31
Winston Patrick McGregor Park , 1628 W. Henderson St.
Cleburne’s Plaza Theatre Company and the Cleburne Chamber of Commerce present Shakespeare in the Park. This year the show is “The Comedy of Errors,” about the misadventures of two sets of twins. Come out and watch under the big Texas sky at Winston Patrick McGregor Park. Gates open at 6 p.m.
Corpus Christi
Mural Fest
May 31-June 7
Mural Fest was created to celebrate the history and culture of Corpus Christi, while enhancing the visuals in the Marina Arts District with the addition of large-scale murals. Each participating muralist has been inspired to showcase different aspects of Corpus Christi including the beach, Harbor Bridge, local pets, the Naval Air Station, tropical plants, marine life, and more. At MuralWalk, visitors can take self-guided tours to admire the vibrant murals and collect “artographs” from the participating talented national artists. Also, the festival features its monthly ArtWalk festivities, including lively block parties on Chaparral, Lomax, Peoples, and Starr streets, and park celebrations at La Retama and Artesian Parks. These gatherings offer over 100 pop-up vendors, local food trucks, and live music both on the streets and within certain establishments.
Victoria
Victoria Bach Festival
May 31-June 7
Various Locations
Artistic airector Alejandro Hernandez-Valdez leads this festival that celebrates the works of J.S. Bach and composers spanning the ages. Orchestral, choral, and chamber works are performed by local and national musicians in venues in and around Victoria.
Bandera
Wagon Rides, Campfires, and S’Mores
June 3-Aug. 30
Flying L Ranch and Resort, 675 Flying L Drive
Available Tuesdays through Saturdays, visitors can sit by the campfire and roast marshmallows while enjoying entertainment by a cowboy under the Texas stars. Also, enjoy wagon rides to feed the deer, visit Ghost Town, or watch the running of the horses.
Amarillo
Texas Route 66 Festival
June 5-14
Greater Amarillo Area
Dive into 10 days of classic car shows, exclusive bus tours, special Route 66-themed movie screenings, a cattle drive and parade, live music, and many other offerings along the iconic Texas stretch. The grand finale on June 14 takes place in Amarillo’s Route 66 Historic District.
Stephenville
MooLa Festival
June 5-7
Stephenville City Park, 800 S. Graham Ave.
This family-friendly event celebrates the dairy industry in Stephenville along with celebrating its rich western heritage. Over the years, the event has featured dairy activities, tethered balloons and balloon rides, live music and entertainment, a carnival and kids zone, food trucks and vendors, a wine tent, and balloon glows.
San Antonio
Fiesta Noche del Rio
June 6-Aug. 2
Arneson River Theatre, 418 Villita St.
The oldest outdoor dance performance of its kind in the United States, Fiesta Noche del Rio, Spanish for “Party Night on the River,” is a musical variety show of authentic Mexican, Spanish, and Texas songs and dances performed by local professionals. San Antonio’s annual iconic cultural performance, full of colorfully costumed dancers and rich, lush sounds, brings to life the deep roots that make San Antonio a special place for love and life. The audience is seated on tiered grass seats across the river from the stage, located in La Villita, the Little Spanish Village of the city.
Kerrville
Shakespeare in the Park: “The Tempest”
June 6-7
Louise Hays Park, 202 Thompson Drive
Themes of magic, betrayal, revenge, and family are intertwined in one of the Bard’s most famous plays, featuring the wizard Prospero and his servants Caliban and Ariel. Pack a picnic, bring some lawn chairs, and enjoy Shakespeare under the stars.
Clifton
Clifton Rodeo
June 6-7
At the 74th annual rodeo, watch the cowgirls run for the best time on barrel racing and then sit back and watch the cowboys rope, ride, and get bucked on the broncos and bulls. The family can enjoy the carnival, mutton busting with young contestants, and the always entertaining 4-H/FFA calf scramble.
Graham
Food Truck Championship of Texas
June 7
Downtown, 608 Elm St.
Food trucks of all varieties take over “America’s Largest Downtown Square” to compete for the coveted grand champion prize and a total payout of $16,000. A large concert on the downtown square featuring Josh Weathers finishes out the day.
Bandera
Bandera Cattle Company Gunfighters
June 7, 12, 19, 26
Rattlesnake Ridge, 126 SH 16 South
On Saturdays, see the Bandera Cattle Company Gunfighters reenact 1800s gunfights twice a day at Rattlesnake Ridge, located behind the Bandera Visitors Center.
Plano
Water Lantern Festival
June 7
Haggard Park, 901 E. 15th St.
The festival brings people together for a celebration of light and community. The evening is filled with tasty dishes from food trucks, fun music, activities, and thousands of lanterns lighting up the night with love, hope, and happiness.
Waxahachie
Gingerbread Trail Home Tour
June 7-8
Various locations, 201 S. College St.
Tour a selection of historic homes on one of our oldest and most beloved annual events that has been a Waxahachie favorite event for 55 years. This year sees the latest features by top designers and contractors.
Pancake Breakfast Fly-In
June 7
Mid-Way Regional Airport, 131 Airport Drive
Enjoy classic airplanes and fighters, fly-overs, helicopter rides, the Midlothian Classic Wheels show, live music, and children’s activities.
Amarillo
TX 66 East Bus Tour
June 11
Center City building, 1000 S. Polk St.
See landmarks and quirky attractions like Britten Leaning Water Tower. The journey includes stops at iconic spots like the Jericho ghost town and Devil’s Rope Museum, and includes a lunch at the historic Conoco Tower Station and UDrop Inn. There’s also a happy hour and live music at Cactus Rose Taphouse.
Lockhart
Chisholm Trail Roundup Festival and Rodeo
June 12-14
Lockhart City Park, 504 E. City Park Road
What began over 50 years ago as a hometown celebration inspired by the wild and raucous history of a cattle town along the historic Chisholm Trail has evolved into the quintessential expression of everything there is to love about Lockhart. This family-friendly event hosts an award-winning rodeo, live entertainment, a carnival, food and craft vendors, and a grand parade.
Amarillo
TX 66 West Bus Tour
June 12
Center City building, 1000 S. Polk St.
This but tour offers a mix of history, culture, and iconic Route 66 experiences along the West Texas portion of the highway. Stops include Magnolia Station, the Milburn-Price Culture Museum, Dots Mini Museum and the Bent Door Cafe. The tour ends at Mama Jo’s Pie & Sweets followed by live music on the courthouse lawn.
San Marcos
Texas Water Safari
June 13
San Marcos River Park, 211 San Marcos Springs Drive
Considered the world’s toughest canoe race, the Texas Water Safari is a 260-mile-long canoe and kayak race from Spring Lake in San Marcos to the city of Seadrift on the Texas coastline. Come cheer the teams on at San Marcos riverside parks.
Longview
Great Texas Balloon Race and Festival
June 13-15
Longview Convention Complex, 1123 Jaycee Drive
Balloon teams from across the country are competing in hot air balloon races. In addition to the competition, there are vendors, food, drinks, live music, specialty shape balloons, a balloon glow, and a drone show.
Mineral Wells
Flying Pig Festival
June 13-14
Downtown, 107 N. Oak Ave.
For years, many people have proclaimed The Baker Hotel would make her reappearance “when pigs fly.” Pigs are certainly flying in Mineral Wells and the “Flying Pig” has become synonymous with the rebirth, revitalization, and big dreams coming true across the city. The Flying Pig Festival includes a concert, retail vendors, a food court, kids’ area, car and bike show, pork cookoff, 5K and fun run, and the Kiss-A-Pig Contest.
Nacogdoches
Texas Blueberry Festival
June 14
Downtown, 200 E. Main St.
One of the most delicious festivals in the Lone Star State, the Texas Blueberry Festival marks its 35th year with a daylong celebration of the blueberry harvest. As the only state-sanctioned blueberry festival in Texas, this annual event attracts more than 19,000 people to downtown Nacogdoches.
Amarillo
TX 66 Festival Finale
June 14
Historic Route 66 District , Southwest Sixth Avenue
Attendees can expect a wide range of attractions, including vendor booths, food options, live music, Elvis impersonators, Miss Texas Route 66 Pinup Pageant, kids activities, corn dog eating contests, a car show, and a bike show.
Galveston
Juneteenth Celebration
June 14-19
Various locations
Galveston Island hosts several days of festivities for the holiday that originated here including festivals, picnics, parades, concerts and pageants, plus the reenactment of the reading of General Orders No. 3 that freed the last slaves in the South.
Graham
Summer Concert Series
June 14, 28; July 12, 26; Aug. 9
Graham Downtown Square, 608 Elm St.
This free concert series, held on America’s largest downtown square, features music from a variety of genres. This year’s lineup of artists includes Adam Hood, the Strike, Robert Ellis, and Hudson Westbrook.
Hillsboro
Bond’s Alley
June 14
Hillsboro Downtown District
The historic alley, located between the Old Rock Saloon (1876) and the T. B. Bond Drug Building (1881), is home to this annual art fair. Artists and artisans fill Bond’s Alley and downtown sidewalks, giving visitors a chance to shop for crafts and food.
Mcallen
Taste McAllen
June 19
McAllen Convention Center, Oval Park, 700 Convention Center Blvd.
Taste McAllen is South Texas’ premier food festival, offering guests the opportunity to savor signature dishes from over 24 local chefs, highly-rated food trucks, and both independent and chain restaurants unique to the region.
Corsicana
Juneteenth
June 19
Various locations
Corsicana’s Juneteenth celebration honors history, culture, and community with live entertainment, great food, and family-friendly activities. Join the festivities and be part of a day of reflection, celebration, and unity.
Bandera
Smithsonian Museum on Main
June 21-July 26
Bandera Middle School, 1005 Cherry St.
Bandera is one of seven Texas cities chosen to host the Smithsonian traveling exhibit “Crossroads: Changes in Rural America.” The focus of the exhibit is to takes a close look at the evolution of rural America in the last century. Come see all the exciting exhibits on display throughout the county.
Hamilton
Central Texas Barrel Racing Association
June 21, Aug. 16-17
Circle T Arena, 4007 SH 36 West
See the professional barrel racers compete against each other and the clock at these events produced by the Central Texas Barrel Racing Association.
Plano
Melon Dash 10K, 5K, and Fun Run
June 21
Oak Point Park Special Events Field, 2801 E. Spring Creek Parkway
Held at Oak Point Nature Preserve, the event features certified 10K and 5K courses, convenient parking, and an after-race party. Stick around for the awards ceremony, kids activities, a sponsor village with lots of goodies, ice-cold beer, and watermelon.
Freeport
Fort Velasco Day
June 21
Freeport Historical Museum, 311 E. Park Ave.
This living history event commemorates the 191st anniversary of the Battle of Fort Velasco by bringing reenactors from across the state to the site to give visitors a glimpse of what life and conflict was like at the mouth of the Brazos River in 1830s Texas.
Plano
World’s Largest Swimming Lesson
June 26
Oak Point Recreation Center, 6000 Jupiter Road
Held every June to bring awareness to the importance of learning how to swim, this fun-filled event is held at Oak Point Recreation Center Pool and every participant (6 and older) receives a free lesson, certificate, and a chance to be a part of the Guinness World Record for the largest swimming lesson.
Boerne
Tour de Boerne
June 28
Don Strange Events, 103 Welfare Road
Ready for a Texas-size challenge? Saddle up for a ride across some of the most beautiful terrain in Texas. Known for steep hills, epic views, and friendly faces, the Tour de Boerne is the fastest-growing charity bike ride in the Lone Star State.
Grand Prairie
Lone Stars and Stripes Celebration
July 3-4
Lone Star Park, 1000 Lone Star Parkway
Celebrate the Fourth of July at the racetrack. After the last race, stay to enjoy the 20-minute firework show, choreographed to music.
Waxahachie
Crape Myrtle Festival and Parade
July 3-4
Waxahachie Sports Complex and Downtown , 151 Broadhead Road and 100 W. Main St.
Designated the Crape Myrtle Capital of Texas, Waxahachie celebrates with this festival and parade. Enjoy a concert followed by a fireworks show with patriotic music (simulcast on the radio) choreographed to the show. The parade takes place downtown on the Fourth of July.
San Angelo
Holiday Salutes at Fort Concho
July 4
Fort Concho National Historic Landmark, 630 S. Oakes St.
Fort Concho puts on a patriotic display with hourly artillery salutes to mark the nation’s 249th birthday.
Amarillo
Will Rogers Range Riders Rodeo
July 4-6
Arena of Life Rodeo Ministries , 8827 S. Washington St.
The Will Rogers Range Riders host a variety of events including ropings, mounted shootings, and trail rides. The largest of their events is the Rodeo and Reunion, held over the July Fourth weekend. This event is sanctioned as a UPRA Rodeo and was recently sanctioned as a WRCA event.
rodeoticket.com/will-rogers-range-riders-rodeo/rodeo-information
Fredericksburg
Fourth of July Parade
July 4
Main Street
This small town patriotic parade runs down historic Main Street and features over 100 floats.
Kerrville
Kerrville Open Pro Rodeo
July 4-5
Hill Country Youth Event Center, 3785 SH 27
This rodeo includes bareback and saddle bronc riding, calf roping, team roping, ladies barrel racing, bull riding, calf scramble, and mutton bustin’ for the kids.
Fourth on the River
July 4
Louise Hays Park, 202 Thompson Drive
This Independence Day celebration consists of a concert, vendors, and the largest fireworks display in the Texas Hill Country.
Winnsboro
Fireworks on the Fourth
July 4
Pleasure Point Park, County Road 4860
The Winnsboro Chamber of Commerce invites visitors to its annual fireworks display. Celebrate Independence Day at Lake Winnsboro and experience the beauty of the lake while enjoying a spectacular fireworks show.
Bandera
Barbecue Dinner and Fourth of July Parade
July 4
American Legion Post 410, 127 Legion Drive, Lakehills
Celebrate the holiday enjoying a barbecue dinner with all the fixings, live country music, a parade, and a live auction.
Cowboy Capital Fourth of July Celebration and Parade
July 4
Celebrate the nation’s birthday in the Cowboy Capital of the World. Along with the parade, visitors can enjoy lots of country music and nightlife.
Galveston
Independence Day Parade and Fireworks
July 4
Galveston Seawall
From fireworks over the beach to a traditional hometown parade, Galveston provides family-friendly activities to celebrate the Fourth of July.
Corsicana
Freedom Fest
July 4
I.O.O.F. Park, North 45th Street
Spend a day having patriotic fun, with live entertainment, family activities, and a spectacular fireworks show. Enjoy food, music, and festivities as the community comes together to honor Independence Day.
Lake Jackson
Firecracker 4 Run
July 4
Dunbar Park, 803 FM 2004
Participate in a 4-mile run through the neighborhoods of Lake Jackson along Oyster Creek. This is a USATF-certified course.
Rockport
Rockport Art Festival
July 5-6
Rockport Festival Grounds, 1500 E. Laurel St.
A staple of the summer season on the coast, the festival features over 120 artists who sell their work to over 10,000 art buyers.
Bandera
Bandera Cattle Company Gunfighters
July 5, 12,19,26
Rattlesnake Ridge, 126 SH 16 South
On Saturdays, see the Bandera Cattle Company Gunfighters reenact 1800s gunfights twice a day at Rattlesnake Ridge, located behind the Bandera Visitors Center.
Hamilton
National Team Roping
July 5-6
Circle T Arena, 4007 SH 36 West
Spend Fourth of July weekend watching team roping competitions presented by National Team Roping.
San Angelo
“The Art of Ezra Tucker”
July 10-Sept. 7
San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts, 1 Love St.
In this first traveling exhibition of artworks by Ezra Tucker, the untold stories of the Black experience in the history of the American West are depicted alongside monumental and dramatic paintings of North American wildlife and examples of allegory, fantasy, illustration, and narrative.
Kerrville
Summer Market
July 12-13
Inn of the Hills Conference Center, 1001 Junction Highway
Vendors bring their best clothing, jewelry, gifts, accessories, Texas handmade items, gourmet food, photography, Scentsy products, and home décor.
KACC Art Exhibits
July 17-Aug. 16
Kerr Arts and Cultural Center, 228 Earl Garrett St.
Kerr Arts and Cultural Center presents three exhibits: “Nature Journaling” by Rebecca Stapleton and Ele Chew; a photography show by J. Regan Ferguson; and “PhotoQuest,” the Hill Country Camera Club’s annual judged exhibit.
Clute
Great Texas Mosquito Festival
July 24-26
Clute Municipal Park, 100 Parkview Drive
At this fun-filled family event, celebrating its 44th year, festivalgoers can expect vendor booths with a variety of foods, arts and crafts, and other merchandise; a carnival; live entertainment each evening; and Willie-Man-Chew, the 26-foot-tall mosquito mascot that greets visitors.
Fredericksburg
Hill Country Auto Swap Meet and Flea Market
July 25-27
Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park, 432 Lady Bird Drive
Car enthusiasts can find just about anything at this annual event. A “car corral” has vintage autos for sale in various states of restoration, and there’s also be a flea market.
Boerne
Hot Summer Nights Antique Tractor Pull
July 26
The AgriCultural Museum and Arts Center, 102 City Park Road
The Boerne AgriCultural Museum and Arts Center hosts its summer antique tractor pull event. Come out and watch antique tractors from around Texas as they compete to pull the heaviest weight the furthest distance.
Plano
Christmas in July
July 26
Plano Event Center, 2000 E. Spring Creek Parkway
Over 100 local vendors sell everything from women’s and children’s boutique clothing to home, holiday, and garden décor, from gourmet food items to handmade and fashion jewelry, and many other items.
San Angelo
Buffalo Soldier Anniversary Day
July 28
Fort Concho National Historic Landmark, 630 S. Oakes St.
This event features programs and activities to mark the anniversary of the creation, by an act of Congress, of the all-Black Buffalo Soldier units in the U.S. Army in 1866.
Bastrop
“Uncorked”
Aug. 1-Sept. 20
Bastrop Museum and Visitor Center, 904 Main St.
Winemaking in Texas has a long and surprising history that extends nearly 350 years. The earliest accounts of successful vineyards were started by missionaries near El Paso in the late 1600s. Although the Texas environment creates limitations, early European settlers from wine-producing countries helped lay the foundation for winemaking in Texas. This special exhibit delves into the history, culture, and artistry of winemaking specific to Bastrop County.
Boerne
Family Night Hike
Aug. 1
Cibolo Center for Conservation, 140 City Park Road
Take a hike on the trails at sunset and discover the various living organisms that call the Cibolo home. These family night hikes give families an opportunity to explore the center and see what lives in the park in the dark.
Plano
Quilt Plano Show
Aug. 8-9
Plano Event Center, 2000 E. Spring Creek Parkway
Attendees have a chance to view over 300 beautifully crafted quilts, enjoy the Mini Quilt Auction, explore special exhibits, and shop with a variety of vendors.
Fredericksburg
Gillespie County Fair
Aug. 21-24
Gillespie County Fair Grounds, 530 Fair Drive
Held over the course of four days, the 137th fair includes a parade, 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.
Hamilton
Vegas Tuffest Finals
Aug. 22-24
Circle T Arena, 4007 SH 36 West
This event showcases rodeo’s up-and-coming junior contestants in calf and team roping, barrels, breakaway and goat tying.
Jefferson
UFOcon
Aug. 23
Jefferson Convention and Visitors Center, 305 E. Austin St.
This UFO convention covers Texas-based UFO sightings, alien encounters, and UFO crash sites.
Kerrville
Heart of the Hills Golf Tournament
Aug. 29-31
Scott Schreiner Municipal Golf Tournament, 1 Country Club Drive
Golfers from around the country and state compete in this annual 72-hole tournament, celebrating its 79th year.
Bandera
Bandera Round-up Ranch Rodeos
Aug. 30-31
Mansfield Park Arena, 2886 SH 16 North
Talented cowboys and cowgirls showcase their skills at the Bandera Pro Rodeo’s ranch rodeos on Labor Day weekend. The event also has kids mutton bustin’.
Gainesville
Depot Day
Oct. 11
Farmers Market, 201 N. Chestnut St.
This 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.
