A note regarding COVID-19
Waxahachie
Screams Halloween Theme Park
Sept. 30-Oct. 30
Scarborough Faire, 2511 FM 66
The world's largest Halloween theme park comes complete with five haunted houses (all with different themes), the Rottingwood Cemetery walk-through attraction, stage entertainment, Scary-Oke, games, a food court, pubs, shops, and loads of Halloween fun. Admission allows you to tour through attractions as many times as you'd like.
Fredericksburg
Lone Star Gourd Festival
Sept. 30-Oct. 2
Gillespie County Fairgrounds, 530 Fair Drive
Sponsored by the Texas Gourd Society, the Lone Star Gourd Festival brings artists and crafters from across the country to Fredericksburg. The three-day event features a gourd art competition, gourd art sales, gourd supplies, and technique classes. Artists and crafters transform gourds into incredible fine art and crafts that are carved, wood burned, woven, polished, dyed, painted, and inlaid as if they were wood. Shop the many artist booths, tour the art competition area, vote in the People's Choice award, and stop at the "Imagination Station," where children and adults can try their hand at creating their own gourd art.
Oktoberfest
Sept. 30-Oct. 2
Marktplatz, 100 block of West Main Street
At the 41st Oktoberfest, celebrate the fun and flavor of Fredericksburg's German heritage with three days of music, food, drink, dancing, arts and crafts, and children's entertainment.
Markham
Culinary Weekend Getaway
Sept. 30-Oct. 2
Spread Oaks Ranch, 8052 CR 403
Spread Oaks Ranch and Brennan's of Houston are joining forces to host an exclusive Culinary Weekend Getaway complete with all-inclusive luxury accommodations, chef-prepared cuisine, wine and whiskey tastings, and world-class amenities. Guests are treated to a weekend filled with genuine Southern hospitality and exceptional regional fare by Chef Carl Walker of Brennan's of Houston and Chef Ric Rosser of Spread Oaks Ranch. Happy hours, multi-course dinners, fishing, a clay target shoot, bird watching, and ingredient harvests are all part of the weekend.
Mason
Home Tour
Oct. 1
Various locations
The Mason County Republican Women's 36th annual home tour is a one-day event that showcases historic, new, and restored homes. The tours are a scholarship fundraising event with different homes listed each year. Tickets are available only the day of event at Market Square, located on the west side of the Mason Square.
Plano
Fall Train Show
Oct. 1-2
Plano Event Center, 2000 E. Spring Creek Parkway
Experience the largest model train show in the North Dallas area. Everyone's welcome—from the novice to the seasoned engineer. The return of the Fall Plano Train Show includes train club layouts, how-to clinics, and vendors. Children 12 and under are free.
Medina
Love Creek Orchards Pumpkin Patch
Oct. 1-30
Love Creek Apple Orchard, 14024 SH 16 North
The pumpkin patch is open Saturday through Monday (closed Oct. 31). Admission includes pumpkin painting, an apple orchard tour, farm animals, games, a hayride, hay maze, storytelling, scarecrow building, and sing-alongs. Don’t forget to play an instrument in the Great Hill Country Symphony and enjoy tree ripened apples, an old-fashioned sweet cider press, and apple goodies.
Sugar Land
The Boho Market
Oct. 1
Sugar Land Town Square, 2711 Plaza Drive
Come to Sugar Land Town Square for a day of shopping, with small and local makers offering items that include candles, home goods, jewelry, clothing, accessories, and gifts.
Huntsville
Fair on the Square
Oct. 1
Downtown Huntsville, 1203 University Ave.
For over 40 years on the first Saturday in October, the Huntsville-Walker County Chamber of Commerce has hosted the annual tradition of Fair on the Square, featuring 400 booths of arts, crafts, food, and entertainment.
Wichita Falls
Mystery Art Fest Exhibit and Auction
Oct. 1-20
Kemp Center for the Art, 1300 Lamar St.
Mystery Art is an annual exhibit and auction of works by local and regional artists of all levels. Artwork is donated by the artist and their name is hidden and becomes a mystery. On the first day of the exhibit artwork is judged and awards are given. Artwork is displayed in the NorthLight Gallery for three weeks and then auctioned throughout the event with a final auction night celebration.
Mesquite
World Championship Miniature Bullriding World Finals
Oct 3-8
Mesquite Arena, 1818 Rodeo Drive
Watch young bullriders, ages 4-18, from across the world compete for a grand prize and exclusive title of World Champion Mini Bull Rider.
Seguin
Guadalupe County Fair and Rodeo
Oct. 5-9
Seguin Events Complex, 950 S. Austin St.
The 139th annual Guadalupe County Fair and Rodeo features a carnival, barbecue cookoff, agriculture and livestock exhibits, PCRA rodeo, and concerts.
Waco
Heart O' Texas Fair and Rodeo
Oct. 6-16
Extraco Events Center , 4601 Bosque Blvd.
See everything from professional bull riders to mutton bustin' buckaroos. Enjoy live music nightly, calf scrambles, and livestock shows. Heart O' Texas has been held for more than 65 years, with attendance swelling each year. In 2018, more than 193,000 people attended.
New Braunfels
Music and Wine Festival: Come and Taste It
Oct. 6, 13, 20, 27
The Grapevine, 1612 Hunter Road
Come and taste it for the United Way at this event that celebrates Texas Wine Month. Every Thursday in October, The Grapevine features complimentary tastings from up to three Texas wineries and a Texas craft brewery, live music, and prize giveaways. Proceeds from featured wine selections benefit United Way of Comal County all month long.
Austin
Austin City Limits Music Festival
Oct. 7-9, 14-16
Zilker Park , 2207 Lou Neff Road
One of the country's largest celebrations of music, this six-day festival brings the magic of the famed public TV series "Austin City Limits" outside the studio and into Austin's most beloved park with more than 140 musical acts on eight stages over two weekends. Headliners this year include Red Hot Chili Peppers, Pink, the Chicks, SZA, Kacey Musgraves, and Lil Nas X.
Alpine
Big Bend Bluegrass Festival
Oct. 7-8
Alpine Civic Center, 801 W. Holland Ave.
Alpine’s mild weather makes it an attractive year-round destination, and the town is certified with an official Music Friendly Communities designation from the Texas Music Office. The inaugural Bluegrass Festival line-up includes the Kody Norris Show, the Edgar Loudermilk, the Old Rugged Choir, Second Time Around, Bluegrass Express, and Calamity Creek. Enjoy jamming, concessions, workshops, and drawings.
Fredericksburg
Texas Mesquite Arts Festival
Oct. 7-9
Marktplatz, 100 block of West Main Street
This is the 28th year for the festival dedicated to the world's largest selection of original mesquite art. The event is a showcase for sculpture, furniture, wood turnings, architectural accents, gift items, ornaments, and other items.
Waxahachie
Stampede of Speed
Oct. 7-16
Texas Motorplex , 7500 SH 287 West
NHRA Fall Nationals event action is packed with racing, concerts, special events, and other entertainment.
Rockport-fulton
Seafair
Oct. 7-9
Aransas Navigation District, 100 Seabreeze Drive
Seafair celebrates its 47th year on the bayfront on Aransas Navigation District festival grounds. This fun festival has a gumbo cookoff, hilarious crab races, arts and crafts, a market, food vendors, an outdoor boat show, and live big-name and local entertainment including Cory Morrow.
New Braunfels
Music and Wine Festival: Rockin’ with Texas Wine and Food
Oct. 7
Gruene Hall, 1281 Gruene Road
Benefiting the United Way of Comal County and presented by Gruene Hall and KNBT 92.1FM Radio New Braunfels, this annual event features a dinner catered by Gristmill River Restaurant, wine tasting, a private performance by a Gruene Hall favorite, and the Great Guitar Auction featuring guitars signed by some of the best artists to headline the historic stage.
Jefferson
East Texas Burn Run
Oct. 7-11
Downtown Jefferson
Come for bikes, bands, and beer all weekend long. Centering around historic Auntie Skinners Riverboat Club, this event has bike games, a live auction, live music, a bike show, and a raffle for a brand new 2021 motorcycle. Sponsored by the Phoenix Organization of Jefferson and Brothers Keepers Motorcycle Club, the event benefits Percy R. Johnson Burn Foundation and Camp I'm Still Me.
Cuero
Turkeyfest
Oct. 7-9
Cuero Municipal Park, Leonard Roy Harmon Drive
Held annually the second weekend of October, the 50th Turkeyfest features food, dances, a parade, entertainment for the whole family, and of course the final heat in the “Great Gobbler Gallop” turkey race to see which town gets the title of “Turkey Capital of the World.”
Houston
Bayou City Art Festival
Oct. 8-9
Sam Houston Park and along Allen Parkway
Bayou City Art Festival celebrates 50 years of providing unique art experiences and education for the greater Houston area. As one of the top art festivals in the country, the outdoor gallery an opportunity to meet artists, view original works, and purchase one-of-a-kind art, world-class paintings, prints, and other items. The festival features two entertainment stages, a food truck park, beverage stations, art installations, and the Active Imagination Zone with hands-on art activities for all ages. This year's featured artist is Cindy Olmes, a mixed-media artist from Cincinnati, who showcases her work along with 250 artists from around the country.
Waxahachie
Chautauqua Cowboy Poet Gathering
Oct. 8
Chautauqua Auditorium, 400 S. Grand St.
There's fun for the whole family at this event, including a Longhorn stampede around Ellis County Courthouse, cowboy poets, Western music, an open mic, chuckwagon meals, a frontier women's wardrobe presentation, birds of prey exhibition, and live music with Kristyn Harris, Devon Dawson, Washtub Jerry, Ramblin' Rangers, and others.
Wichita Falls
Mad Hatter Tea Party
Oct. 8
Kell House Museum, 900 Bluff St.
Wear your wildest clothes and join in the fun of an interactive showing of the tea party scene from the classic "Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland" by Lewis Carroll. Learn about Victorian tea customs while snacking on punch and cake and discover historic lawn games such as croquet. Enjoy a morning the way the Kell children might have over 100 years ago.
Houston
Party in the Park
Oct. 13
The Menil Collection, 1533 Sul Ross St.
Spotlighting the Menil Collection’s neighborhood, green spaces, and outdoor sculptures, this enchanting evening includes refreshing cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and multiple food stations, accompanied by a live entertainment experience.
Boerne
Night Hikes for Adults
Oct. 14
Cibolo Center for Conservation, 140 City Park Road
Join naturalist Jasmine Torrez and explore the Cibolo Center for Conservation to discover various living organisms that call the Cibolo home.
Cameron
Steak, Stein, and Wine Fest
Oct. 15
Downtown Cameron , 102 E. First St.
The Cameron Chamber of Commerce is excited to partner with 44 Farms to kick off a great meat-centric event in downtown Cameron. Guests indulge in a delicious ribeye steak dinner with all the trimmings from Cameron's own local beef producer, 44 Farms. The Cameron Car Club hosts a car show with other downtown activities plus artists, food trucks, wine, beer, and other beverages. There are games for all, and music and entertainment keep your heart beating and your feet stomping.
The Colony
Family Fright Night
Oct. 15-16
Stewart Creek Park, 3700 Sparks Road
Get ready for a haunted campout, just in time for spooky season. Family Fright Night offers a Halloween adventure suitable for all ages. Enjoy a lakeside campout with a haunted trail, tent trick-or-treating, and kids' costume and scream contests. Kick back with a scary movie screening, hayride, and fireside s’mores.
Plano
International Festival
Oct. 15
Haggard Park, 901 E. 15th St.
Tour the world and improve your wellness at the Plano International Festival. The area’s largest cultural event has food, fun, and entertainment for the whole family. Enjoy multicultural music and dance performances, ethnic food trucks, cultural displays, and other festivities from over 100 cultures. Kids can explore STEAM activities plus travel the booths with a virtual passport. Come early for free flu and COVID shots and a variety of health screenings.
Mesquite
PumpkinFest
Oct. 15
Valley Creek Park, 2482 Pioneer Road
Mesquite's annual fall festival includes a pumpkin-decorating contest, petting zoo, haunted house, carnival games, jousting, a falconry show, and other family-friendly festivities.
Galveston
ArtOberFest
Oct. 15-16
Postoffice Street, Between 20th and 23rd streets
This juried fine art festival features various artists, food, and live music on Postoffice Street amid Galveston’s Victorian architecture, art galleries, and shops. Admission proceeds benefit The 1894 Grand Opera House's education and community outreach programs.
Longview
"Towards a 21st Century Abstraction"
Oct. 15-Feb. 11, 2023
Longview Museum of Fine Arts, 215 E. Tyler St.
Curated by Los Angeles art critic Peter Frank, this exhibition presents seven masterful painters from across the country pushing the boundaries of abstraction.
El Paso
El Paso Winefest
Oct. 15
Downtown El Paso, Near San Jacinto Plaza, 401 N. Mesa St.
El Paso Wine and Food Festival brings together the stars of El Paso's culinary scene with acclaimed local chefs and fine wines. Located in the heart of downtown El Paso, the Grand Tasting features 400 wines from around the world plus food from 20 of El Paso's finest restaurants. Select wines are also on sale; all proceeds support the charitable projects of Rotary Club of El Paso.
Elgin
Hogeye Festival Weekend
Oct. 20-22
Historic Downtown Elgin , 109 Depot St.
Held the fourth Saturday of October, this festival features handmade arts and crafts, live music, food, kids' activities, and plenty of pig puns to go around. Events include Lindsy Kay Wing Children's Costume Pet Parade, Road Hog Car Show, Gordon Swenson Memorial Barbecue Pork-Off, a carnival, cow patty bingo. Before the main event, the Hogeye Stroll, "Pearls Before Swine Art Show," and the Hogalicious Dessert Contest take place on Oct. 20. And on Oct. 21 is a street dance with Kenny Orts and No Chance.
Sugar Land
Steve Martin and Martin Short
Oct. 21
Smart Financial Centre, 18111 Lexington Blvd.
Dynamic duo and stars of "Only Murders in the Building," Steve Martin and Martin Short are back at Smart Financial Centre with very special guests pianists Jeff Babko and banjo player Alison Brown and Fair Weather Friends for the "You Won't Believe What They Look Like Today" tour.
Galveston
Island Oktoberfest
Oct. 21-22
First Lutheran Church, 2415 Winnie St.
Island Oktoberfest brings the “oompah” back to Galveston for its 40th year. At the city's premier fall festival, visitors can revel in German heritage with a full weekend of food, drinks, live performances, games, and special activities. Guests are encouraged to wear German costumes.
Yorktown
Western Days
Oct. 21-23
Yorktown Western Days, 100 N. Riedel St.
This fun family festival, held in Yorktown's Downtown City Park, includes music, parades, cookoffs, vendors, a kids' tractor pull, mutton bustin', a quilt show, an arrowhead exhibition, a pig scramble, and stick horse rodeo; plus, the Yorktown Historical Museum is open.
Cisco
Pie Fest
Oct. 22
Conrad Hilton Center, 309 Conrad Hilton Blvd.
Attend a good old-fashioned festival with Pie Fest. This pie-centric event includes a pie baking contest, pie eating contest, pie in the face game, and a 40-foot long pie buffet. There is also lots of family fun, games, music, a car show, food, and arts and crafts.
Cottonwood Shores
Legends of the Falls Hayride Theatre Event and Festival
Oct. 22-23
Cottonwood Shores Community Park, 4111 Cottonwood Drive
This one-of-a-kind theatrical event highlights the unique history of Cottonwood Shores, which has roots reaching back to the Texas Revolution as well as prehistoric Native American settlements. Participants embark on a hayride with an on-board tour guide who points out key historical sites in the city. The ride pauses at featured locations to hear from the "legends" who carved the paths for the current way of life in Texas Hill Country. In addition to the hayrides, there is a festival at the base site, along with demonstrations of historical tools, such as how to use the atlatl, flint knapping for arrowheads, and cannon fire used during the Texas Revolution.
Fredericksburg
Food and Wine Fest
Oct. 22
Various locations
Indulge at the 31st annual Fredericksburg Food and Wine Fest, a grand celebration of Texas food and wine with musical entertainment and fun plus several special events at different locations including Messina Hof Hill Country, Becker Vineyards, and the Marktplatz in downtown Fredericksburg.
Kerrville
Kerrville Mountain Bike Fest
Oct. 22-23
Kerrville-Schreiner Park, 2385 Bandera Highway
The largest mountain bike festival in Texas appeals to families as well as a wide variety of outdoor adventure participants, with several events to choose from.
Haunted Ghoul Pool
Oct. 22-23
Kerrville Olympic Pool, 601 Olympic Drive
With family-friendly tours and scarier haunted tours, this event offers a night of goosebumps, spooks, and screams as Olympic Pool is transformed into a ghoulish haunted house.
Palestine
Hot Pepper Festival
Oct. 22
Main Street District
The 2022 Hot Pepper Festival features a wide variety of vendors, food and drinks, music and other live entertainment, and, of course, the Hot Pepper Eating Contest. The event is held at the Main Street District, which is comprised of 44 blocks that extend from the courthouse square to the Depot Visitor Center.
Austin
Austin Symphony Orchestra: Halloween Children's Concert
Oct. 23
Long Center, 701 W. Riverside Drive
This concert is a wonderful chance to introduce children to the wonders of live orchestral music and also a great opportunity to wear costumes and have tons of fun. The concert hall is decorated top to bottom to enhance children's concert experience. It’s creepy, crawly, and spooky!
Houston
"The Secret of My Success"
Oct. 25-Nov. 6
Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, 800 Bagby St.
Theatre Under The Stars and Universal Theatrical Group, the production company behind "Wicked" and "Mean Girls," presents this new take on "The Secret of My Success," the hit film that starred Michael J. Fox. The production, with an updated, modern-day setting, takes a wild look at redefining what success means when the world changes, corporate culture, ambition, and making your own way in life.
Kerrville
Texas Fleece and Fiber Festival
Oct. 27-30
Kerr County Hill Country Youth Event Center, 3785 SH 27
Fiber artists, enthusiasts, and producers come together under one roof. Vendors from all over Texas and beyond offer their products and art over the course of three days. Teachers and speakers share information in classes from fiber arts to animal husbandry practices. There are also demonstrations, exhibits, and smaller events (Texas Make It with Wool, TAGRA Jackpot Show, and Texas Sheep Dog Association).
Llano
Llano River Pumpkin Float
Oct. 29
Badu 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. Witches, fairies, pirates, and mermaids are welcome, as costumes are encouraged.
Seguin
Pecan Fest
Oct. 29
Central Park, 201 S. Austin St.
At this celebration of all things pecan and Seguin's agricultural heritage, visitors can take photos with the World's Largest Pecan, shop with vendors, enjoy live music, and honor the state's official nut.
Boerne
Music in the Cave: Haunted Show
Oct. 29
Cave Without a Name Throne Room, 325 Kreutzberg Road
The Rahim Quazi Trio returns with an eerie evening in the Cave Throne Room just before Halloween. The cave is haunted with tales and songs including "Moonlight Sonata" (played in total darkness), the themes from "Young Frankenstein" and "A Nightmare Before Christmas," Danse Macabre, plus the haunting melodies from Rahim Quazi's album "Ghost Hunting."
Brownsville
Boo at the Zoo
Oct. 30-31
Gladys Porter Zoo, 500 Ringgold St.
Join the Gladys Porter Zoo for a spooky good time, with trick-or-treating, carnival-style games, mermaids, and fun Halloween-themed activities.
Jefferson
History, Haunts and Legends
Nov. 1
Jefferson Convention and Visitor Center, 305 E. Austin St.
This fun event is for anyone who enjoys history, mystery, the unexplained, and things that go bump in the night, with special guest speakers, vendors, tours, and night time investigations at some of Jefferson's historic, rumored haunted locations.
Ozona
"Remembering Crockett County Veterans"
Nov. 1-Dec. 31
Crockett County Museum, 404 11th St.
Each year, the Crockett County Museum honors the community's veterans both past and present with an exhibit featuring photos, artifacts, and memorabilia submitted by local families. There are hundreds of photos and other items dating back to the Civil War.
Galveston
Lone Star Motorcycle Rally
Nov. 3-6
Downtown and along Seawall
Visitors have a chance to experience one of the largest biker rallies in the country as the Lone Star Motorcycle Rally makes its way to the island, with bike shows, a tattoo contest, live entertainment, and hundreds of vendors.
New Braunfels
Wurstfest
Nov. 4-13
Wurstfest, 120 Landa St.
During the 10-day festival, find a variety of entertainment, food, and fun while celebrating German culture. Enjoy carnival rides, games, German and Texan beers, special events, and the finest Bavarian-style entertainment.
Rockport
Film Festival
Nov. 4-6
Various locations
This event celebrates the best of independent cinema on the Texas Coast. Showcasing shorts, features, documentaries, animations. and student films, Rockport Film Festival is a welcoming three-day event which highlights talent from Texas and beyond.
Boerne
Night Hikes for Adults
Nov. 4
Cibolo Center for Conservation, 140 City Park Road
Join naturalist Jasmine Torrez and explore the Cibolo Center for Conservation to discover various living organisms that call the Cibolo home.
Greenville
Bob Wills Fiddle Festival and Contest
Nov. 4-5
Downtown, Lee Street
This event, unique to the city of Greenville, pays tribute to American music traditions and the life and music of Bob Wills, the King of Western swing. Featuring fiddling competitions and performances by top-notch fiddlers, the eighth annual event offers a lineup of artists who bring talent, legacy, variety, and spontaneity, plus toe-tapping music all in the spirit of great entertainment.
Austin
Austin Celtic Festival
Nov. 5-6
Pioneer Farms, Pioneer Farms Drive
The largest gathering of Celts in Central Texas returns for its annual Celtic Festival. Internationally acclaimed as one of the few remaining festivals that celebrate the authentic music honed by the Celtic people, the Austin Celtic Festival goes beyond gimmicks to highlight traditions and achievements in a way that reminds audiences of the extraordinary craftsmanship and study that made places like Ireland and Scotland leaders in folk music and dance.
Dallas
Holiday at the Arboretum
Nov. 9-Dec. 31
Dallas Arboretum, 8525 Garland Road
Numerous spectacular elements are a part of Holiday at the Arboretum. The Christmas Village has dozens of charming shops fashioned after a European Christmas village. There's also the 50-foot-tall Dazzling Musical Tree animated with more than 42,000 lights and merry holiday tunes, the 12 Days of Christmas gazebos that represent each of the 12 days of Christmas, and the stunningly decorated historic DeGolyer house.
San Antonio
"Lightscape"
Nov. 11-Jan. 8
San Antonio Botanical Garden, 555 Funston Place
Over one million lights and festive displays return to San Antonio Botanical Garden. In its second year, the outdoor illuminated trail includes new installations and favorites like the Winter Cathedral set to seasonal music along a 1-mile path that winds through the garden. More than 80 percent of this year's trail features installations never seen before in San Antonio. In addition to the captivating light displays, guests have an opportunity to enjoy festive food and drinks, including roasting s'mores.
Henderson
Heritage Syrup Festival
Nov. 12
Depot Museum Grounds and Downtown Historic District, 514 N. High St.
The tradition of ribbon cane syrup making is commemorated at this festival. The highlight of the only folklife 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. Festivities also include folk singers, antique tractors, a petting zoo, food and drinks, cloggers and square dancers, and a melodrama at the Henderson Civic Theatre.
Elgin
Veterans Appreciation Parade
Nov. 12
Historic Downtown Elgin , 109 Depot St.
Recognize and celebrate the community's veterans with a parade in downtown Elgin at 10 a.m., then take a veteran to lunch at the Elgin Volunteer Fire Department.
Dallas
The Trains at NorthPark
Nov. 12-Jan. 6
NorthPark Center, 8687 N. Central Expressway
This favorite holiday tradition for generations of Dallasites includes 1,600 feet of track rolling from coast to coast on a whimsical rail journey across America. The model trains travel from the autumn foliage of New England to San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge with stops along the way to see New York City, Washington, D.C., Dallas, and the desert Southwest including the Grand Canyon and the Garden of the Gods.
New Braunfels
Weihnachtsmarkt
Nov. 18-20
New Braunfels Convention and Visitor's Center, 375 S. Castell Ave.
Weihnachtsmarkt (Vy-noks-markt) is a German-style Christmas Market with a Texas twist. Held the weekend before Thanksgiving, this New Braunfels tradition offers the charm of the open-air Christmas markets of Germany, except indoors. Enjoy gemutlichkeit (good cheer) and three days of shopping for authentic German ornaments, unique Christmas decorations, specialty items, apparel, and fabulous gifts from a wide array of retail merchants and artisans.
Giddings
Texas Word Wrangler Book Festival
Nov. 18-19
Giddings Public Library and Cultural Center, 276 N. Orange St.
Giddings salutes Texas authors with a two-day book festival at the Giddings Public Library and Cultural Center. Visit with selected Texas authors, see their works, and purchase an autographed copy. Find a wide range of book genres including: murder mystery, fantasy, science fiction, cookbooks, self-help books, junior fiction, and picture books. Many local schools bring students to meet the authors, learn about the writing process, and inspire them to love reading and writing.
sites.google.com/site/txwordwrangler/home-texas-word-wrangler-book-festival
Fort Worth
Lightscape
Nov. 18, 2022-Jan. 8, 2023
Fort Worth Botanic Garden, 1700 University Drive
Following sold-out runs in the world’s largest cities including London, Chicago, Los Angeles, and New York, the internationally acclaimed Lightscape is coming to Fort Worth for the holiday season. Taking place within the 120-acre Fort Worth Botanic Garden and set along a beautifully illuminated walking trail custom-designed for Fort Worth, Lightscape features spectacular artistic installations that come to life after dark with color, imagination, and sound. Walk a one-mile-long path with suspended strands and tunnels of light, a fire garden, undulating waves of bluebonnets, singing trees, treetop sculptures, and artistic installations while toasting marshmallows over a fire and drinking hot chocolate and other seasonal drinks at stations along the trail.
Houston
Lightscape
Nov. 18, 2022-Jan. 1, 2023
Houston Botanic Garden, One Botanic Lane
The internationally acclaimed Lightscape is back at the Houston Botanic Garden this holiday season, with magical light displays created by acclaimed artists from around the world. The illuminated trail winds through the garden with a blend of visitor favorites from the inaugural year, including the towering Winter Cathedral tunnel sparkling with 100,000 lights, and many new-to-Houston works including a field of glowing Texas bluebonnets. With its dynamic installations–including a fire garden with hundreds of flaming candles–Lightscape celebrates artistic creativity within the natural beauty of a living museum.
Alpine
ArtWalk
Nov. 18-19
Downtown , 204 E. Holland Ave.
The 29th annual ArtWalk, Alpine's biggest arts festival, spans two days in November and showcases a variety of art exhibitions in many local businesses along with festivities and live music.
Wichita Falls
"A Christmas Story: the Musical"
Nov. 18-Dec. 17
The Wichita Theatre, 919 Indiana Ave.
This musical brings the holiday classic "A Christmas Story" to life. The story takes place in the 1940s in Indiana and focuses on a child named Ralphie, who wants a Red Ryder BB Gun for Christmas.
Palestine
The Polar Express
Nov. 18-Dec. 27
Texas State Railroad, Palestine Depot, 789 Park Road 70
The Palestine depot offers a festive holiday setting that features lights, tinsel, garland, and costumed characters sure to excite and inspire every child and adult. The magical story comes to life the minute the train departs the Palestine Depot for the journey to the North Pole.
Austin
Blue Genie Art Bazaar
Nov. 18-Dec. 24
Blue Genie Art Bazaar, 6100 Airport Blvd.
The Blue Genie Art Bazaar is a fixture of the Austin holiday season. With in-person and virtual shopping alternatives, shoppers can browse thousands of original works ranging from serious art to fun and kitschy items. It's a great way to buy hassle-free holiday gifts and support local artists.
Grapevine
Outdoor Ice-Skating Rink
Nov. 18-Jan. 8
Historic Main Street
Just when you thought the Christmas Capital of Texas couldn’t get any bigger, the Grapevine Convention and Visitors Bureau offers an all new attraction for the 2022 holiday season, a 4,500-square-foot outdoor ice-skating rink on Historic Main Street. The rink stays open for 52 days and adds to the list of more than 1,400 attractions and events Grapevine hosts over 40 days during the holiday season.
Houston
"Robert Motherwell Drawing: As Fast as the Mind Itself"
Nov. 18-March 12
Menil Drawing Institute, 1412 W. Main St.
The Menil Collection presents the most comprehensive survey ever mounted of the drawings of Robert Motherwell, on view exclusively at the Menil Drawing Institute and spanning the artist’s career from the 1940s through the 1980s with more than 100 works.
Galveston
"Ice Land: A Caribbean Christmas"
Nov. 18-Jan. 7
Moody Gardens, 1 Hope Boulevard
Part of Holiday in the Gardens, come see 2 million pounds of colorful ice carved into shapes of sea creatures in a chilled structure (parkas provided). Other holiday festivities include the Festival of Lights Trail, Arctic Slide, train ride, and ice skating rink.
Corpus Christi
Wine Festival
Nov. 19
Heritage Park, 1581 N Chaparral St
The fifth annual Corpus Christi Food and Wine Festival at Heritage Park features food, live music, art, festive activities, and, of course, plenty of wine.
Kerrville
Holiday Lighted Parade and Christmas Tree and Tranquility Lighting Ceremonies
Nov. 19
Kerr County Courthouse, 700 Main St.
Officially welcome the holiday season, and most importantly the arrival of Santa Clause riding in on his signature fire truck, at this holiday event. Grab your hot cocoa and join others for this annual downtown community tradition.
San Antonio
"The Velveteen Rabbit"
Nov. 19-Dec. 24
Magik Theatre, 420 S. Alamo St.
The Magikal Theatre presents this retelling of the classic children's story about a boy who receives a stuffed rabbit sewn from velveteen as a present on Christmas Day. When another toy is lost, the rabbit quickly becomes the boy's new favorite. As the rabbit's dapper appearance gets worn and shabby from play, a wonderful change begins to happen. Enjoy this holiday season the heart-warming and much-loved story about a shy toy rabbit who longs for nothing more than to become real.
Frisco
Christmas in the Square
Nov. 19-Jan. 3
Frisco Square, Frisco Square
The largest choreographed lights and music display in North Texas features more than 175,000 lights, 11.5 miles of wiring, and over 8 miles of extension cords. Visitors may tune in to 107.3 FM on the radio in their vehicles, or listen to the music piped through speakers as they take a walk through the square. This year's event includes Skate the Square, an outdoor ice skating rink, as well as a Christmas tree lot.
Fort Worth
Parade of Lights
Nov. 20
Downtown Fort Worth, 777 Taylor St.
The GM Financial Parade of Lights illuminates the streets of downtown Fort Worth for the 40th year. This year’s parade marks the city’s official kick-off to the holiday season with more than 100 festive floats, each adorned with holiday decor and over half a million sparkling lights.
Wichita Falls
Fantasy of Lights
Nov. 21-Dec. 26
Midwestern State University, 3410 Taft Blvd.
The Midwestern State University-Burns Fantasy of Lights is one of the largest holiday displays of its kind in the region, providing a festive holiday atmosphere on campus and a focal point for holiday activities in North Texas.
Marshall
Wonderland of Lights
Nov. 23-Dec. 30
Downtown , Whetstone Square
Watch a Hallmark movie come to life as you stroll through downtown Marshall. The festival has an outdoor ice skating rink, vintage carousel, train, and a collection of tiny houses making up Santa's Village. Additional weekly special events are enjoyed by residents and visors alike, though the 1901 historic Harrison County Courthouse, adorned in millions of white lights, remains the crown jewel.
College Station
Lights On
Nov. 24-Jan. 1
Stephen C. Beachy Central Park, 1000 Krenek Tap Road
Guests can continue the family tradition of viewing more than 1 million lights that decorate 47-acre Stephen C. Beachy Central Park. Don't forget to bring your wish list for Santa. The staff also has made arrangements with his elves to accept letters for Santa in the North Pole mailbox outside the Central Park office.
Grand Prairie
Prairie Lights
Nov. 24-Dec. 31
Lynn Creek Park, 5610 Lake Ridge Parkway
See one of the premier holiday light parks in Texas, located at Lynn Creek Park on Joe Pool Lake in Grand Prairie. Upon arriving at the entrance of Prairie Lights, be dazzled by 4 million lights set along 2 miles of path. Hundreds of all-new displays line and arch over the roads.
Port Lavaca
Nativity Exhibit
Nov. 25-Dec. 4
Red Barn, 3187 SH 35
This free, three-day event showcases hundreds of nativities from around the world, some with their own special memory to share, such as the first nativity as a family, one bought while stationed in Germany, a treasured graduation gift from grandparents, one left in the attic by previous homeowners, and a "rescued" nativity from the thrift store.
New Braunfels
Holidays in Gruene: Photos with Cowboy Kringle
Nov. 25-27
Gruene Historic District
Reserve a spot in advance to create a lasting Christmas memory with Cowboy Kringle, Gruene's own brand of Santa.
Wichita Falls
Carriage Rides
Nov. 25-Dec. 24
The Forum, 2120 Speedway Ave.
Take a tour of the Christmas light displays through a beautiful country club neighborhood while riding in a magically decorated carriage.
Boerne
Dickens on Main
Nov. 25-26
Hill Country Mile, 100 N. Main St.
Boerne’s historic Hill Country Mile transforms into a vintage Christmas experience, with nonstop entertainment in various holiday villages set up throughout the venue. The celebration’s main attractions include live music and performances, visits with Santa Claus, ice sculpting, children’s take-home crafts, snow along Main Street, roving musicians, carolers, and other revelers.
Johnson City
Lights Spectacular Hill Country Style
Nov. 25-Jan. 2
Courthouse Square, One block off Main Street
The twinkliest town in the Hill Country celebrates its 33rd annual Lights Spectacular. See Johnson City as it transforms itself from a slow-paced, presidential hometown nestled on the banks of the Pedernales River into a bright beacon of light welcoming visitors with good old-fashioned Christmas cheer.
Corpus Christi
Holly-Days at the Gardens
Nov. 25-6, Dec. 2-3, 9-10, 16-17
South Texas Botanical Gardens and Nature Center, 8545 S. Staples St.
Celebrate the joys of the season featuring environmental artist Shelia Rogers' latest recycling exhibit, "Eco Christmas Tree," an 18-foot-tiered, lit-from-within, holiday masterpiece created from recycled green plastic bottles collected by the community. The traditional Holly-Days 20-foot lighted fir tree once again adorns the Rose Garden, with smaller-themed trees and lighted displays throughout the Gardens. The event also offers hayrides, cocoa, cider, s'mores over fire pits, Santa, and other festivities.
Palestine
Holiday Carriage Rides
Nov. 25-Dec. 23
Carnegie Library Building, 502 N. Queen St.
Climb into a beautiful antique carriage and enjoy a ride throughout the Palestine Historic Main Street District aglow with holiday lighting. Rides take place Fridays and Saturdays and can hold two to four adults (larger groups may be accommodated if children are included).
Jefferson
Christmas Parade and "Enchanted Forest" Tree Lighting
Nov. 26
Downtown and Lions Park
After the parade, which travels through Jefferson and ends at Lions Park, stick around for the "Enchanted Forest" tree lighting ceremony. Be inspired as 100-plus beautifully decorated christmas trees light up and ring in the holidays. Festivities also include Christmas carol singing and a visit from Santa.
Dallas
"The Happy Elf"
Nov. 27-Dec. 23
Rosewood Center, 5938 Skillman St.
Dallas Children's Theater presents Grammy-winning musician Harry Connick, Jr.'s holiday jazz musical. Eubie is, much to the exhaustion of his co-workers, an elf of unparalleled and endless energy looking to get a spot on Santa’s coveted sleigh team. When his unstoppably sunny spirit comes into contact with the miserable town of Bluesville—where every single child is on the naughty list—he’s in for the shock of a lifetime. Will his relentless positive attitude be enough to turn this gloomy place around, or has the happiest elf in the North Pole finally met his match?
Fredericksburg
A Christmas Wine Affair
Nov. 28-Dec. 23
Various locations
Savor all that Texas Wine Country has to offer this holiday season by sipping and sampling award-winning wines at participating Texas Hill Country wineries.
Amarillo
Amarillo Farm and Ranch Show
Nov. 29-Dec. 1
Amarillo Civic Center Complex, 401 S. Buchanan St.
Find about 500 exhibitors showcasing agricultural products, services, and technologiesis at one of the nation’s largest indoor farm and ranch shows.
Huntsville
Lone Star in the East
Nov. 29-Dec. 30
Sam Houston Memorial Museum and Republic of Texas Presidential Library, 1836 Sam Houston Ave.
At this holiday exhibit that celebrates Texas, visit the museum’s rotunda and see "The Lone Star in the East" Christmas Tree featuring the work of Texas theater artist and designer Barry Doss.
San Marcos
Sights and Sounds of Christmas
Dec. 1-3, 8-10
San Marcos Plaza Park , 206 N. CM Allen Parkway
San Marcos turns into a winter wonderland with the Sights and Sounds of Christmas. Journey through time to the town of Bethlehem where costumed actors and live animals set the atmosphere. Enjoy local children caroling, holiday concerts, and a special visit from Santa every night when he arrives in an unsuspecting way. Make furry friends at the petting zoo, ice skate, watch snow falling in Central Texas, get a thrill on carnival rides, and indulge in holiday food.
Houston
Art on the Avenue
Dec. 1, 3
Winter Street Studios, 2101 Winter St.
Art on the Avenue returns for its 25th anniversary with more than 500 original artworks from over 250 local artists. The event has grown to be the city's largest silent art auction, giving back to the thriving arts community of Houston while supporting the affordable housing and community revitalization efforts of local nonprofit organization Avenue. The Thursday night preview event offers art lovers a first look at this years' exhibition, along with curated art-inspired bites and cocktails. The party continues Saturday evening with the auction and party.
Grand Prairie
Quarter Horse Racing
Dec. 1-17
Lone Star Park, 1000 Lone Star Parkway
On Thursday through Saturday, head to the racetrack to see horses race past you during the quarter-horse season.
Boerne
Old West Christmas Light Fest
Dec. 1-4, 8-11, 15-24
Enchanted Springs Ranch, 242 SH 46
This fest delights attendees with holiday flavors and favorite traditions. Stroll through more than 2 million twinkling lights in an authentic Old West town, then enjoy live music, snacks, and drinks. Shop at the local artisan handmade market and visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Snap photos at the digital photo booth, meet animals at the petting zoo, or let the kids run free on an inflatable jumping pad.
Plano
Deerfield Holiday Lights 2022
Dec. 1-30
Legacy Drive at Archgate Drive
Deerfield, a community in Northwest Plano, is known for its holiday and Christmas light displays. Every year the city offers carriage rides and plenty of houses lit up to get visitors in the Christmas spirit.
Jefferson
Candlelight Tour of Homes
Dec. 1-3, 8-10
Various locations
Step back in time and take narrated tours of historic homes 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 you and describe each home's origin and finery.
Kerrville
Texas Furniture Makers' Show
Dec. 1-23
Kerr Arts and Cultural Center, 228 Earl Garrett St.
Open Tuesday through Saturday, this annual statewide competition showcases some of the finest custom furniture makers in Texas.
Galveston
Dickens on The Strand
Dec. 2-4
Strand National Historic Landmark District, 2002 Strand St.
The Galveston Historical Foundation presents the 49th annual Dickens on the Strand, a holiday tradition based on 19th-century Victorian London. It features parades, nonstop entertainment on four stages, new additions like Tiny Tim’s Play Land, the Shopkeeper Skills Village, and roaming characters throughout the festival. Costumed vendors peddle their wares from street stalls and rolling carts laden with holiday food and drink, Victorian-inspired crafts, clothing, jewelry, holiday decorations, and gift items.
Granbury
"Christmas Carol Experience"
Dec. 2-30
Dora Lee Langdon Cultural and Educational Center, 308 E. Pearl St.
Inside the Dora Lee Langdon Mansion, guests are transported to Fezziwig’s living room and Scrooge’s office. Brian Clowdus Productions presents "Christmas Carol Experience," a haunting immersive experience where audiences enter to find themselves as guests at the funeral of Jacob Marley. Limited to only 50 guests per show, "Christmas Carol Experience" begins very dark but ultimately ends with a heartwarming story of redemption and hope that is sure to melt even the most frozen hearts.
Goliad
Christmas in Goliad
Dec. 2-3
Downtown Goliad
Goliad County Historical Commission’s 39th annual Christmas in Goliad features Friday night festivities, including homemade-handmade booths and a lighted parade. Saturday morning, everything opens back up and goes till 4 p.m., with Santa arriving on the square at high noon on the back of a "reinsteer." Other Saturday activities include live music, special dance performances, a best-dressed dog contest, and Miss Ruby’s Corral, with Texas authors ready to sign their books.
Cottonwood Shores
"A Tuna Christmas"
Dec. 2-18
Hill Country Community Theatre, 4003 W. FM 2147
It’s Christmas in the third-smallest town in Texas. Radio station OKKK news personalities Thurston Wheelis and Arles Struvie report on various Yuletide activities, including the hot competition in the annual lawn-display contest, won 14 times in a row by Vera Carp. A mysterious "Christmas Phantom," known for vandalizing the yard displays, threatens to throw the contest into turmoil. In other news, voracious Joe Bob Lipsey’s production of "A Christmas Carol" is jeopardized by unpaid electric bills.
Clute
Elizabethan Madrigal Feast
Dec. 2-4, 8-11
Center for the Arts and Sciences, 400 College Blvd.
At this holiday feast, enjoy the majesty and pageantry befitting the court of Queen Elizabeth I. 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.
Plano
"The Gift of Christmas"
Dec. 2-4, 7-11
Prestonwood Baptist Church, 6801 W. Park Blvd.
This Prestonwood tradition has become one of the highlights of the Christmas season, with thousands of guests attending every year. The multimedia event features special effects, a nearly 1,000-member cast and choir, a live orchestra, flying angels, and other elements for a memorable holiday experience.
Camp Wood
Old Settlers Reunion and Christmas in the Nueces Canyon
Dec. 3
Lindbergh Park and Downtown Camp Wood, State Highway 55 at Fifth and Sixth Streets
The Christmas season in Camp Wood starts off with a parade down Nueces Street through downtown Camp Wood, followed by more events in Lindbergh Park, including the king and queen coronation, live entertainment, annual pie and salsa contests, and decades-old washers and horseshoes tournament. Vendors are selling artworks, crafts, woodwork, leatherwork, jewelry, candles, paintings, hats, baked goods, stonework, taxidermy, new clothing, and handbags. Food vendors have all of the most delicious festival food delights. Downtown businesses are decorated for Christmas, and in the evening, stores open with homemade cookie and candy treats. While shopping in stores, register for door prize giveaways. Special guest Santa Claus hears wishes from all the children at the Corner Store Cafe.
Lewisville
Old Town Holiday Stroll
Dec. 3
Wayne Ferguson Plaza, Old Town, 150 W. Church St.
Ring in the holiday season at this family-friendly event. Highlights include the Selfies with Santa, Motorcycle Toy Run, Huffines Christmas Parade, Elf Scavenger Hunt, and Lewisville Lights. Also, enjoy the tree lighting ceremony, winter carnival attractions, a movie in the Plaza, and carriage rides through Old Town Historic Home District.
Llano
Dickens of a Christmas Festival
Dec. 3-4
Llano Courthouse Square, 801 Ford St.
Step back in time to the days of Charles Dickens and see downtown Llano transform into a 19th-century jewel. A variety of musicians and Dickens characters fill the streets. Expect to see and interact with Ebenezer Scrooge, Tiny Tim, and the rest of the Cratchit family from "A Christmas Carol." Have breakfast with Santa, decorate Christmas cookies, make a Christmas craft, try your skill at games, take a carriage ride around town, and shop the variety of arts and crafts vendors.
facebook.com/llanos-a-dickens-of-a-christmas-109967451767977
San Antonio
Christmas at the Caverns
Dec. 3-23
Natural Bridge Caverns, 26495 Natural Bridge Caverns Road
Hear your favorite carols echo throughout Texas' largest underground cavern. Visit with Santa Spelunker Claus, join Mrs. Claus for story time, and then round up his reindeer in an outdoor maze. As the sun sets behind the 30-foot-tall Christmas tree, take a stroll through a trail of lights and enjoy s'mores around the campfire. Don't forget to have some barbecue, enjoy music, and shop for your holiday gifts.
Post
Light Up Post
Dec. 3
Downtown, 105 Main St.
This Christmas celebration in downtown Post begins in the morning with merchants and vendors hosting a sip and shop. The Silent Night Village is open for "Taste of Post," with food vendors serving local specialty foods. Santa and Mrs. Claus and a pesky Grinch welcome children. Then, a Lighted Float Parade lines up in the late afternoon on Main Street, where regional antique firetrucks and local floats brighten the streets.
Baytown
Christmas on Texas Avenue Festival
Dec. 3-4
Baytown Town Square, 213 W. Texas Ave.
Celebrating 25 years, Christmas on Texas Avenue Festival offers door prizes every 25 minutes, Santa's playground for young and old fans, shopping, food trucks, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, a car and bike show, and live music.
New Braunfels
Holidays in Gruene: Pony Express Ride
Dec. 3
Gruene Historic District, 1613 Hunter Road
Gruene Historic District receives a Pony Express rider from the Heritage Trail Ride Association of New Braunfels in the morning. Relay riders carry a Christmas greeting from the governor of Texas. A temporary post office set up next to Gruene Outfitters cancels stamps for mailing. Bring your Christmas cards to have them canceled with the commemorative stamp representing Gruene.
Canyon
Christmas Open House
Dec. 3
Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum, 2503 Fourth Ave.
For its one-day-only Christmas Open House, the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum bustles with holiday activity. Along with Santa taking requests at his sleigh in the snowy woods of Hazlewood Lecture Hall, children can make holiday crafts, listen to storytellers weave Christmas stories in a cozy living room setting with a crackling fire, and hear children’s choirs and entertainers fill the rest of the museum with music from the Derrick Room. Santa's helpers also have a cookie station.
Boerne
Weihnachts Parade
Dec. 3
Downtown Main Street
This beloved Christmas tradition dates back more than 30 years. Always on the first Saturday of December, the parade is held at night along historic Main Street. Up to 100 floats, bands, and other entries are lit up in the holiday cheer as they make their way from the fire station to the parade's end at River Road. Grab a chair and some blankets and pick your space to take it all in.
Granbury
Nativity Scenes
Dec. 3-11
See more than 1,300 Nativity scenes from all over the world. This private collection is on display each year for a short time at the Langdon Center Concert Hall.
visitgranbury.com/events/annual-events/christmas-in-granbury
Bandera
Cowboys On Main
Dec. 3-Feb. 25
Main Street
Every Saturday, see free cowboy fun in downtown Bandera. Activities can include chuckwagon storyteller, hopping on a saddle-broke Longhorn, or a horse-drawn wagon tour of Bandera. Most Saturdays the Bandera Cattle Company perform gunfights at Rattlesnake Ridge located behind the Visitors Center.
Elgin
Time to Shine, Hot Cocoa Stroll, and Lighted Christmas Parade
Dec. 3
Downtown , 310 N. Main St.
This new event is held in conjunction with the Hot Cocoa Stroll and Lighted Christmas Parade and features the official dedication of Elgin's #ETX150 time capsule at 1:50 p.m. 'Tis the season for holiday-themed children’s activities, Santa's reindeer games, Christmas carols, a special screening of "The Polar Express," and festive food trucks.
Seguin
Yulefest
Dec. 4
Seguin Coliseum, 950 S. Austin St.
The Seguin Art League has been presenting this event for 10 years. Enjoy a fine arts and crafts show featuring handmade items, gifts, and decorations; over 70 vendor booths; door prizes; food; and a craft activity for children.
Lubbock
Candlelight at the Ranch
Dec. 9-10
National Ranching Heritage Center, 3121 Fourth St.
Visitors step into a "living Christmas card" when the annual Candlelight at the Ranch recreates a frontier holiday similar to those on the open prairie from 1780 to 1950. More than 4,000 luminaries line the paths of the historic park as volunteer ranch hosts dress in period clothing to recreate holiday scenes from another era. Guests enter through the front doors and proceed to Campbell Patio, where they can buy kettle corn, hear Christmas carols provided by the Lubbock High School choir, and access the park trails of their choice. Santa Claus greets visitors in the Pitchfork Pavilion, and cowboy Christmas music plays in the 6666 Barn.
ranchingheritage.org/nrhc-events/candlelight-at-the-ranch/#upcoming
La Grange
Trail of Lights
Dec. 9-23
Kreische Brewery and Monument Hill State Historic Sites, 414 State Loop 92
The trails of Kreische Brewery and Monument Hill State Historic Sites are lit with beautiful holiday lights for this 10-night festival. The first five nights feature children's crafts, entertainment, visits with Santa, refreshments, and volunteers in costume sharing Victorian-German Christmas traditions at the Kreische home and smokehouse. The final five "encore" nights allow guests to simply walk the trail to enjoy the lights, which include several new thematic displays.
Mckinney
Holidays at the Heard
Dec. 9-10
Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary, 1 Nature Place
Holidays at the Heard brings the beauty of the holiday season into nature. Bundle up your family, get out of the house, and experience this unique family-friendly holiday evening event in North Texas.
Clute
Christmas in the Park
Dec. 9-10
Clute Municipal Park, 100 Parkview Drive
Come out and celebrate the holiday season with two days of Christmas activities and fun featuring a lighted Christmas trail and seasonal photo opportunities.
Palestine
"The Man Who Wanted to Be Santa Claus"
Dec. 9-11
Texas Theatre, 213 W. Crawford St.
Who is the man who wanted to be Santa Claus? That's what they're asking each other at the local police station when Santa Claus shows up handing out gifts. It's not so much the gifts that amaze Howard and Bertie but the fact that ol' Santa seems to know them all so well and they haven't a clue who's wearing the red and white.
San Angelo
"The Influence of Sculptor Charles Umlauf"
Dec. 9-Feb. 5
San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts, 1 Love St.
Michigan-born, Austin-based sculptor Charles Umlauf influenced artists around the world and art students, including Farrah Fawcett, at the University of Texas, where he taught for 40 years. Come see this exhibit featuring artworks that show the influence of Charles Umlauf on other artists.
Fredericksburg
"Miracle on 34th Street"
Dec. 9-11, 16-18
Steve W. Shepherd Theater, 1668 US 87 South
Fredericksburg Theater Company presents the heartwarming holiday classic retold in the tradition of a live 1940s-era radio broadcast, staged with live Foley effects and a score of holiday carols.
Llano
Snow Day
Dec. 10
Badu Park, 300 W. Legion Drive
Badu Park is transformed into a winter wonderland of white and fluffy fun as 35,000 pounds of ice is brought to the park and made into a giant sledding hill. Wristbands are required and sleds are provided.
Baytown
Christmas Past and Present
Dec. 10
Republic of Texas Plaza, 5117 N. Main St.
Festive decorations and unique surroundings of Christmas life past and present are depicted at the Baytown Historical Preservation Association's 13th annual Christmas Past and Present. Historic buildings are adorned in traditional and modern-day decorations with luminaries lighting up the pathways throughout the Living History Museum. Kids get to see Santa and tell him their wishes, cowboy poets recite poems, docents in period clothing show you what Christmas was like in the early 20th century, and kids can make Christmas crafts and get their faces painted.
Montgomery
Christmas in Historic Montgomery
Dec. 10
Downtown Montgomery, Texas, 14420 Liberty St.
Montgomery County's oldest Christmas celebration—marking its 45th year—offers a full day of events in downtown Montgomery, one of Texas' oldest towns and the birthplace of the Texas flag. The event includes strolling carolers, a marketplace with homemade gifts and décor items, old-fashioned decorations in the historic buildings on the evening 45th Historic Home Tour, and the 33rd famous Cookie Walk, where tables are laden with decorative cookies and candies to purchase by the pound.
Austin
"Medieval X Modern"
Dec. 10-March 19, 2023
Blanton Museum of Art, 200 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
Along with representative medieval objects, "Medieval X Modern" presents the work of modern artists from Europe and the Americas who created prints, drawings, paintings, illustrated books, sculptures, and decorative objects informed by the spectacular craftsmanship and compelling historical figures of the Middle Ages.
Spring
Islamic Arts Festival
Dec. 10-11
Masjid Al-Salam, 16700 Old Louetta Road
This event showcases the art of emerging and student artists and in the past has offered interactive sessions including calligraphy, Ebru, painting, and henna, plus children’s art activities. The festival has gained recognition as the oldest continuously running festival of Islamic arts in America.
Surfside Beach
Island of Nighttime Kites
Dec. 10
Surfside Beach Main Entrance
Watch the sky fill up with the lit-up kites of the Surfside Flyers Kite Club. The fourth annual event is fun for all ages.
San Antonio
Deutsche Weihnachtsfeier
Dec. 11
Trinity University, Margarite B. Parker Chapel, 1 Trinity Place
This much-loved event in San Antonio’s holiday season is a non-denominational German Christmas celebration open to everyone. It includes the telling of the Christmas story in German, using traditional scripture, Christmas poems, carols, and seasonal music. There is no sermon. The Beethoven Maennerchor and the San Antonio Liederkranz sing choral music; students from local schools and colleges read poems and passages of scripture in German. In advance of the service, Trinity University organist Dr. David Heller plays an organ prelude. The climax of the evening is the congregation singing “Stille Nacht, heilige Nacht” (“Silent Night”) by candlelight.
Boerne
Kinder Fest
Dec. 16-18
Historic Downtown Boerne, 100 N. Main St.
On this child-friendly weekend, everyone is encouraged to show off their ugly Christmas sweaters, silly Christmas pajamas, and Whoville hairdos. Events include the Cookie Crawl, a free Santa scavenger hunt, Christmas card decorating, a visit with Santa, and the Cowboy Christmas Market.
West Columbia
Candlelight Christmas
Dec. 17
Varner-Hogg Plantation State Historical Site, 1702 N. 13th. St.
Tour the plantation house to discover the many contributions of different cultures to Christmas in Texas. Relax outside and enjoy the beverage of the season (wassail), Christmas cookies and other foods, entertainment, children's activities, and a special visit from Santa. Santa's Market is also open for all the shoppers who attend.
Surfside Beach
Surfing Santas
Dec. 17
Surfside Beach Pedestrian Beach
Watch a group of Santas catch waves and hang 10 at this fifth annual holiday event.
Ozona
Crockett County 4-H Junior Livestock Show
Dec. 17
Crockett County 4-H Barn, 1303 Ave. AA
Area youth bring their best livestock for the judges to review.
Bandera
Singing in the Saddle
Dec. 17
Boys and Girls Club of Bandera County, 715 Maple St.
Enjoy caroling while taking a wagon or buggy ride or riding horseback. Bring your guitar if you want and play along.
Kerrville
Christmas at the Kroc
Dec. 17
Kerrville Kroc Center, 201 Holdsworth Drive
Celebrate the holidays with the whole family at this free event filled with breakfast, photos with Santa, cookie decorating, hot chocolate, and arts and crafts—all themed around "A Charlie Brown Christmas."
Grand Prairie
Michael Martin Murphey's Cowboy Christmas
Dec. 18
Texas Trust CU Theatre at Grand Prairie, 1001 Texas Trust Way
Don't miss the 30th year of Michael Martin Murphey's Cowboy Christmas, a family-friendly multimedia experience with the Rio Grande Band and the Rocky Mountain Vintage Dancers.
Plano
Plano Symphony: Home for the Holidays
Dec. 18
Christ United Methodist Church, 3101 Coit Road
The holiday tradition includes seasonal favorites, the ever-popular audience sing-along, humorous moments, and even a few surprises. This year's event has the Plano Symphony Orchestra being joined by singer and actress Fela and the Plano Civic Chorus.
New Braunfels
Holidays in Gruene: Two Ton Tuesday Holiday Show
Dec. 20, 27
Gruene Hall, 1281 Gruene Road
If you haven't felt the energy of Two Tons of Steel live, grab your dancing partner and get ready for a rockin’ night. The band takes the stage at 8:30 p.m., but come early for swing dance lessons before the show.
Holidays in Gruene: New Year's Eve at Gruene Hall
Dec. 31
Gruene Hall, 1281 Gruene Road
A Gruene Hall favorite returns to help ring in the New Year at Texas’ oldest dance hall.
Fredericksburg
USO-Style Hangar Dance
Dec. 31
Pacific Showroom at the Hangar Hotel, 155 Airport Road
Ring in New Year's Day dancing to the sounds of a 1940s-style big band. Take swing dance lessons and wear your best 1940s-inspired outfit to take part in the costume contest. A portion of the proceeds are donated to the United Service Organizations in Fort Hood.
Surfside Beach
Polar Plunge
Jan. 1
Surfside Beach Pedestrian Beach
Start the new year off right and on Jan. 1 join others as they take a cold and refreshing dip in the Gulf.
Tyler
T.R.Y.Athlon
Jan. 1
Tyler State Park, 789 Park Road 16
“Try” new skills for a new year. Visitors can sign up for guided hikes through the forest, mountain biking through pine savannah, and try out kayaking on a spring-fed lake.
Kerrville
Symphony of the Hills
Jan. 7
Cailloux Theater, 910 Main St.
Symphony of the Hills presents "POPS: Western Swing," celebrating the music of Western swing, that delightful blend of country, big band swing, and blues that was named the official music of Texas in 2011.
Valley View
Kid's Trout Derby
Jan. 7
Ray Roberts Lake State Park, Johnson Branch Unit, 100 PW 4153
Help celebrate 100 years of fishing in Texas State Parks. Bring your child to the Kid Fish pond and create memorable moments while fishing for freshly stocked rainbow trout. Rangers are there to help kids fish and are giving away prizes.
Bandera
Bandera County Junior Livestock Show
Jan. 11-14
Mansfiled Park Rodeo Arena, 2886 SH 16 N.
For more than 80 years, the Bandera County Junior Livestock Show has provided 4-H and FFA youth opportunities to further their agricultural, leadership, and higher education goals. An auction is held on the Jan. 14.
Temple
"Quanah Parker: One Man Two Worlds"
Jan. 14-April 15
Temple Railroad and Heritage Museum, 315 W. Avenue B.
In 1836, a Comanche raiding party took Cynthia Ann Parker from her family. Over the following years, she became wife to a Comanche chief and mother to children, including Quanah Parker, the last Comanche chief. After Texas Rangers took Cynthia Ann back, Quanah became one of the most important Comanche leaders in both war and peace. This photo exhibit tells this story of their lives caught between two different worlds.
Freeport
History Day
Jan. 14
Freeport Historical Museum, 311 E. Park Ave.
At this event, see exhibits and hear firsthand accounts of significant events that took place in the city of Freeport's past.
Granbury
Goosebump Jump
Jan. 14
Granbury City Beach, 505 E. Pearl St.
Kick off the new year by jumping into the frigid waters of Lake Granbury. Prizes are awarded for Best Costume, Oldest Participant, Furthest Travelled, Best Team Costumes, and Best Couples Costume.
Sherman
Martin Luther King Jr. Day March
1/14
Downtown Sherman, 400 S. Travis St.
All churches, civic and social groups, and members of the public are welcome to come out for the march to honor civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. March.
Luckenbach
Blues Festival
Jan. 14
Luckenbach Texas, 412 Luckenbach Town Loop
The 16th annual Luckenbach Blues Festival showcases an all-day lineup of blues musicians and bands.
Fulton
Winter Texan Appreciation Day
Jan. 19
Fulton Convention Center, 402 North Fulton Beach Road
This event welcomes winter Texans to the Rockport-Fulton area. The daylong event includes informational booths, presentations from local businesses and local attractions, music, games, and the opportunity to meet fellow winter Texans.
Surfside Beach
Surfside Food and Art Festival
Jan. 28
Stahlman Park, 2211 Bluewater Highway
The fifth annual Surfside Food and Art Festival offers live music, a chili cookoff, art and food vendors, a community art project, and fun activities for kids.
Mathis
Kid Fish 2023
Jan. 28
Lake Corpus Christi , 23194 Park Road 25
Kid Fish is an annual event hosted by Lake Corpus Christi State Park. The purpose of this single-day event is to expose local youth to the sport and enjoyment of fishing and provide them with the tools and knowledge for a future of responsible recreation and environmental stewardship.
Pittsburg
Kids Fish Day
Feb. 28
Lake Bob Sandlin State Park, 341 State Park Road 2117
Multiple generations of families have attended this event over the years. At the 33rd annual Kids Fish Day, thousands of rainbow trout are stocked, and the park provides all the gear needed. There are casting games for beginners, fish prep and cooking demonstrations, and giveaways. Rangers are on hand to guide fishers. There are two different sessions, one in the morning and one in the afternoon.
Boerne
Chocolate Walk
Feb. 10-11
Historic Downtown Boerne, 100 N. Main St.
This sweet event takes participants on a stroll through historic downtown Boerne. Collect a special chocolate treat as you step inside each participating store, gallery, and restaurant along Main Street. Once you've visited all the stores, return your raffle ticket for a chance to win prizes donated by the store owners.
Galveston
Mardi Gras! Galveston
Feb. 10-21
Galveston Historic Downtown and Seawall
The third-largest Mardi Gras celebration in the country includes masked balls, balcony parties, parades, concerts, and lots of beads.
Luckenbach
Hug-In and Valentine Ball
Feb. 10-11
Luckenbach Texas, 412 Luckenbach Town Loop
It’s that time of year again for folks to get “Back to the Basics of Love” at Luckenbach’s 48th annual Hug-In and Valentine Ball. Enjoy live music and dancing all weekend long.
Mckinney
Second Saturday Bird Walks
Feb. 11
Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary, 1 Nature Place
On the second Saturday of the month, take a bird walk intended to help beginning and intermediate birders with bird spotting and identification techniques. There are also plenty of opportunities for participants to ask questions from experienced birders. Prairie, woodland, and wetland habitats are included in these walks.
Beaumont
Mardi Gras Southeast Texas
Feb. 16-19
Great Lawn of the Event Center, 700 Crockett St.
Enjoy four days of family-friendly fun in downtown Beaumont, with parades, concerts, kids' activities, arts and crafts, and food vendors.
Jefferson
Mardi Gras
Feb. 17-19
Downtown Jefferson
The Krewe of Hebe presents Jefferson's annual Mardi Gras. The festivities last an entire weekend and feature parades, live music, food, vendors, a carnival, frosty beverages, and, of course, masks and beads.
Freeport
Mardis Gras Festival
Feb. 18
Freeport Historical Museum, 311 E. Park Ave.
Festivities for Mardi Gras include a parade, gumbo cookoff, King Cake-eating contest, and live entertainment.
Huntsville
Experience a Day in the Life of a CCC Enrollee
Feb. 18
Huntsville State Park, 565 Park Road 40 W.
Take an interactive tour through the life of the Civilian Conservation Corps. Read about the corps' formation, get hands-on with their tools and uniforms, visit the camp store to shop the benefits of being an enrollee, and hear from members of the corps themselves, though their newsletter, as you stand in Ravens Lodge and look out at Lake Raven that they helped create.
Austin
"Day Jobs"
Feb. 19-July 23, 2023
Blanton Museum of Art, 200 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
The first major exhibition to examine the overlooked impact of day jobs on the visual arts, "Day Jobs" is dedicated to demystifying artistic production and upending the stubborn myth of the artist sequestered in their studio, waiting for inspiration to strike. The exhibition includes approximately 75 works in a broad range of media by emerging and established artists such as Emma Amos, Larry Bell, Mark Bradford, Jeffrey Gibson, Tishan Hsu, Ragen Moss, Howardena Pindell, Chuck Ramirez, Robert Ryman, and Fred Wilson.
Mckinney
Krewe of Barkus Dog Parade
Feb. 19
Mitchell Park, 300 W. Louisiana St.
At this parade held each year on the Sunday before Mardi Gras, dogs and their owners dress up in costumes based on the special theme of the event, then they parade around McKinney's downtown square. Prizes are awarded in multiple categories. Music, food trucks, and pet-related vendors add to the festivities.
Huntsville
Prison City Film Festival
Feb 22-25
Old Town Theatre, 1023 12th St.
Built with one overall objective in mind—to showcase independent films and filmmakers—the four-day independent film festival is where filmmakers break out.
Port Aransas
Whooping Crane Festival
Feb. 23-26
Various locations
Each year since 1996, the Whooping Crane Festival has celebrated the annual return of the cranes to their wintering habitat at the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge. The event has renowned speakers, birding trips, boating trips, nature tours, photography workshops, and a trade show.
Huntsville
Prison City Crawfish and Music Festival
Feb. 25
Downtown Square, 12th Street and University Avenue
This all-day crawfish and music festival takes place in conjunction with the Prison City Film Festival.
San Angelo
Buffalo Soldier Heritage Day
Feb. 26
Fort Concho National Historic Landmark, 630 S. Oakes St.
Celebrate the contributions of the buffalo soldiers to West Texas and the military frontier with displays, living history, and special talks. Buffalo soldiers were Black soldiers who mainly served on the Western frontier after the Civil War. Their duties included helping with westward expansion, building roads and infrastructure, and guarding the U.S. mail.
Ozona
Crockett County History Day
May 5
Ozona Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center, 505 15th St.
Learn more about the early days on the frontier in and around Ozona during Crockett County History Day on the Ozona Chamber of Commerce grounds. The informative event featurs camels, soldiers, pioneers, flintknapper, and livestock including donkeys from the Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue.
