John L. Kuykendall Event Center, 2200 W. Ranch Road 152

The weekend includes the 45th annual Open Fiddle Fest, a live concert and dance, and a Sunday service and cowboy breakfast. This year's Open Fiddle Contest (with a free entrance) includes youth, senior, open, and accompanist divisions. Saturday's activities also feature an evening concert with legendary country star Moe Bandy. The event takes place at the John L. Kuykendall Event Center, which provides a large, open space for the competition, concert, and Sunday morning service.

llanofiddlefest.com

Wildseed Farms, 100 Legacy Drive

Enjoy viewing and snapping photos of the wildflower fields in full bloom along with two butterfly gardens.

wildseedfarms.com

The Agricultural Museum and Arts Center, 102 City Park Road

The Boerne Agricultural Museum and Arts Center hosts its annual Antique Tractor Pull event. Come out and watch antique tractors from around Texas as they compete to pull the heaviest weight the furthest distance.

theagricultural.org

Butt-Holdworth Memorial Library, 505 Water St.

Butt-Holdworth Memorial Library hosts this party that includes an indoor planetarium show, music, and guest speaker. This event celebrates the upcoming Oct. 14, 2023 annular eclipse and the April 8, 2024 total solar eclipse.

kerrvilletx.gov

The Menil Collection, 1533 Sul Ross St.

Enjoy an afternoon of art, music, poetry, and family activities in celebration of the Menil’s vibrant neighborhood. Participating organizations include: DACAMERA, Houston Center for Photography, Inprint, The Menil Collection, Rothko Chapel, Watercolor Art Society, and Writers in the Schools.

menil.org

Downtown and Front Street Station, 111 S Broad St. and 100 W. Front St.

The 65th annual Rodeo Parade is an all-day, community-wide event that features a downtown farmers market; the Food Truck Rodeo with food trucks lined up along Front Street; and a parade with horses, bands, and floats that wind through downtown Mesquite.

downtownmesquitetx.com

Bird and Butterfly Trail, 418 Parkview Road

Celebrate spring bird migration and the wonders of birds in Bird City Surfside. With 400 species of birds in the area, this event provides visitors with an opportunity to learn more through educational speakers, vendors, and fellow birders.

visitsurfsidebeachtx.org

Carl A. Parker Multipurpose Center, 1800 Lakeshore Drive

Enjoy live Cajun music, spicy food, and dancing the night away. Cajun activities are planned in days surrounding the event.

cajunheritagefest.com

Cooper Lake State Park, Doctors Creek Unit, 1690 FM 3505

Enjoy visiting the park and participating in several come-and-go programs during this celebration of fish. Try your hand at casting a line and catching a fish or two and earn your First Fish Certificate. Learn fish anatomy and other species-specific information during a hands-on painting activity. Learn to tie and attach tackle to your line, plus other angler education programs.

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

Palmetto State Park, 78 Park Road 11 South

This event centers around teaching visitors about the wide variety of species in the park. Staff and volunteers are stationed around the park and lead tours (including some in Spanish) helping identify species and teaching about iNaturalist and other ways to identify. The event includes 24-hour personal or group challenges to identify 100 species of flora and fauna found in the park.

tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/palmetto

Lake Somerville State Park, Nails Creek Unit, 14222 Park Road 57

This new spring fishing event incorporates multiple styles of fishing. Come learn to fly fish with the park partners at Good Fly, experience creek fishing from a kayak, or take a child fishing for the first time in the stocked family fishing pond. All ages and experience levels welcome.

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

Cooper Lake State Park, Doctors Creek Unit, 95 Park Road 8154

Try your hand at casting a line and catching a fish or two. This event offers angler education programs, a big fish contest, arts and crafts featuring Gyotaku (a Japanese method of fish printing/painting), presentations, and other activities.

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

Galveston Railroad Museum, 2602 Santa Fe Place

The inaugural Steampunk Festival hearkens back to a time inspired by 19th-century industrial steam-powered machinery and takes place in the historic railroad museum. The festival offers a family-friendly program filled with entertainment, exhibits, vendors, presenters, and games.

galvestonsteampunk.com

Downtown , 114 Central Ave.

Every Friday in April and May, the Friends of Elgin Parks hosts this live-music series featuring a different band in historic downtown Elgin's Veterans Memorial Park. Bring friends and family, beverages, snacks, and a blanket or lawn chair. Elgin Parks and Recreation also offers games for children.

elgintexas.gov

Scarborough Renaissance Festival, 2511 FM 66

Scarborough Renaissance Festival is interactive fun for everyone—16th-century style. Enjoy full combat jousting and birds of prey exhibitions, the Mermaid Lagoon, more than 20 stages with nonstop Renaissance entertainment, and the 75-plus-member performing company. Discover hundreds of shops featuring exquisite crafts and artisan demonstrations. Experience knighting ceremonies, combat competitions, the Grande Parade, daily wine and beer tasting events, and themed weekends.

srfestival.com

LBJ State Park and Historic Site, 199 State Park Road 52

Learn about German Easter traditions including friendship cards, homemade egg dyes, grass baskets, and lamb cake.

tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/lyndon-b-johnson

Kerr County Hill Country Youth Event Center, 3785 SH 27

Shop for native and adapted ornamental plants, herbs, vegetables, 55-gallon rain barrels, and items at "The Garden Shed" resale shop.

hillcountrymastergardeners.org

Quintana Bird Sanctuary, 814 N. Lamar St.

Spring is peak migration time so the Gulf Coast Bird Observatory hosts Spring Fling at the Quintana Neotropic Bird Sanctuary. For four weeks, volunteers and staff are available each day to help identify the migrants as well as resident birds and keep a daily list going.

gcbo.org

Luckenbach Texas, 412 Luckenbach Town Loop

Participate in free family fun that includes hunting for Easter eggs, live music, games, and photo ops with the Easter Bunny.

luckenbachtexas.com

Various locations

Orange Show Center for Visionary Art hosts the annual Art Car Parade and event week. Founded in the mid-'80s as a small gathering of like-minded individuals making a statement on the road, the now internationally recognized phenomenon showcases personal artistic creativity and provides a forum for a unique type of expression. Festivities include the annual ball, a lineup party along Allen Parkway, Kids' Creative Zone in Sam Houston Park, the 36th annual Art Car Parade, and an awards ceremony.

thehoustonartcarparade.com

Various locations

The Moontower Just For Laughs Austin comedy fest returns with two full weeks of comedy. Complete with favorite headliners and a four-day comedy club binge, expect over 100 comedians invading downtown Austin for stand-up, podcasts, parties, screenings, and cast panels. Headliners this year include Trevor Noah, Seth Meyers, Chelcie Lynn, and Vir Das.

austintheatre.org/moontower-comedy

Frontier Times Museum, 510 13th St.

In keeping with the pioneering spirit of its founder, J. Marvin Hunter Sr., the Frontier Times Museum has established the Heroes Hall of Honor to recognize the contributions of individuals who, through their leadership, creativity, example, and hard work, keep the pioneer spirit alive. Each year, the museum inducts its honorees at an annual induction ceremony.

frontiertimesmuseum.org

Caddo Lake State Park, 245 Park Road 2

Walk into yesteryear at Caddo Lake State Park, which celebrates 30 years of good conservation with the Caddo Lake Institute. Try your hand at canoeing, fishing, and other park activities. Decorate your campsite with a retro theme, attend an outdoor movie, and enjoy music and dancing like it's 1923, when the Texas State Parks system was founded.

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

Crow Museum of Asian Art, 2010 Flora St.

This yearlong landmark exhibition features numerous works never before seen in the United States and marks the first time that the Crow Museum dedicates its entire museum to one exhibition over an extended period. Nearly 250 stunning works of Japanese art to be presented in major themes and categories. "Japan, Form and Function" covers 5,000 years of Japanese history, with works spanning from the early Jōmon period (5,000-3,520 BCE) to the mid-20th century.

crowmuseum.org

San Gabriel Park, 445 E. Morrow St.

Embrace the honky-tonk spirit with 40-plus artists across three stages, featuring live music from country currents, country classics, and the country curious. Acts scheduled to perform include Zach Bryan, Tyler Childers, Midland, Travis Tritt, Tanya Tucker, Wynonna Judd, Clay Walker, Mavis Staples, and Diplo.

twostepinn.com

Riverside Nature Center, 150 Francisco Lemos St.

Come browse and shop for native plants that have been selected to thrive in the Texas climate and soil, along with other gardening-related items.

riversidenaturecenter.org

Mustang Island State Park, 9394 SH 361

A wide array of educational events take place throughout the day. Try fishing with a ranger, kayaking, beach walks, wildlife touch tanks and discussions, and other fun activities that highlight all of the recreational opportunities the park can provide as well as provide education on the important habitat and ecosystems of the park.

tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/mustang-island

McKinney Falls State Park, 5808 McKinney Falls Parkway

Come out to the park for a fun day full of guided hikes, live music, food trucks, and activity booths, plus park staff open a time capsule buried in the park in 1975. Discover the treasures that were left behind and witness the preparation of the next time capsule for McKinney Falls State Park to be opened in 2073.

tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/mckinney-falls

South Llano River State Park, 1927 Park Road 73

Help the park celebrate this area of the Hill Country and Walter Buck Jr., the gentleman who donated the land to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Along with an open house at the new headquarters, the event features various activities revolving around angora goats and wool, Model T's, and history.

tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/south-llano-river

Dinosaur Valley State Park, 1629 Park Road 59

At this annual celebration, activities are focused around everything winged and migratory. Families have the chance to make bird houses and feeders, see monarch butterflies in various stages of development, and enjoy nature walks and hikes.

tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/dinosaur-valley

Bonham State Park, 1363 State Park 24

To celebrate 100 years of Texas State Parks, Bonham State Park is hosting various natural and cultural table talks and activities for all to enjoy, ranging from programs about fossils to a Bois 'd Arc Trail Civilian Conservation Corps hike to fishing for backyard bass.

tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/bonham

Martin Creek Lake State Park, 9515 County Road 2181D

Start your morning off by attending a Fishing 101 course to learn the basics of fishing. Test your new skills on the water by participating in the fishing derby, with prizes given out in a variety of categories. Wrap up the day on the water, as park rangers guide a group paddle in kayaks and canoes around the island.

tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/martin-creek-lake

Ray Roberts Lake State Park, Isle du Bois Unit, 100 PW 4137

Greenfest includes a 5K, a 1-mile fun run, and a family expo-style event with exhibit booths, vendors, and activities centered around health, wellness, and outdoor recreation.

tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/ray-roberts-lake

Fredericksburg United Methodist Church, 1800 N. Llano St.

Fredericksburg Music Club presents award-winning barbershop group Alamo Metro Chorus, a membership organization of female singers who meet regularly to practice, perform, socialize, and have fun.

fredericksburgmusicclub.com

Fort Bend Children's Discovery Center, 198 Kempner St., Building B, First Floor

Children with autism spectrum disorder and their families are invited to experience the Fort Bend Children's Discovery Center with dimmed lights, limited extra sounds, and no distracting motions during this private event. Extra signage is added to help visitors determine things not to climb on, and the entrances between exhibits where it is good to stop and wait for an adult before continuing.

childrensdiscoveryfb.org

Fort Concho National Historic Landmark, 630 South Oakes

Held on the historic Fort Concho Parade Grounds, this three-day competition features riding and horsemanship skills that reflect the drills and training of the U.S. Cavalry in the 1800s.

fortconcho.com

At the 36th annual Old Settler's Music Festival, enjoy four days of Americana/roots music, camping, jamming, and family fun in beautiful Dale (just outside of Austin). Yolo, the Wood Brothers, Shovels and Rope, and Shinyribs are just a few of the acts scheduled to perform.

oldsettlersmusicfest.org

Various locations

Bird lovers are invited to experience one of the largest birding festivals in Texas and the only one with a dedicated nature photography track. The 21st annual event features field trips, workshops, and other special events on Galveston Island.

galvestonfeatherfest.com

Dallas Contemporary, 161 Glass St.

This is the first comprehensive American presentation of Cerámica Suro's influence on contemporary art vis-à-vis the collection amassed by José Noé Suro and his wife, Marcela. Selections from this collection, which is made up of over 700 pieces, are curated by the executive director and chief curator of Guadalajara’s Zapopan Art Museum (MAZ), Viviana Kuri.

dallascontemporary.org

Dallas Contemporary, 161 Glass St.

For his solo exhibition, Eduardo Sarabia expresses his multidisciplinary work in the setting of a home in which visitors are invited to walk through and witness the varied elements of the artist's practice, which includes hand-painted blue and white talavera-style ceramics made in collaboration with Cerámica Suro, paintings, handmade ceramic kitchenware, sculpture, and a site-specific mural of vine motifs and birds.

dallascontemporary.org

Globe-News Center for the Perfroming Arts , 500 S. Buchanan St

The Amarillo Symphony's final concert of the season is a performance of Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2, performed by award-winning pianist Joyce Yang.

amarillosymphony.org

Menil Drawing Institute, 1412 W. Main St.

Between the 1940s and 1970s, American artist Gray Foy (1922–2012) created a body of extraordinarily meticulous drawings, most often rendered in graphite on paper, and this exhibition spans the entirety of Foy’s career. It also celebrates two recent gifts that have made the Menil Collection the foremost repository of Foy’s work.

menil.org

Diamond B Ranch, 11589 FM 321

The race takes place every year during the celebration of Texas' independence. This unique Western event welcomes visitors to come early and bring their horses, mules, and wagons. Enjoy the many activities or just set back and watch. On-site camping is available starting April 14.

1836chuckwagonrace.com

San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts, 1 Love St.

See contemporary ceramics by invited artists Brian Molanphy, Bonnie Lynch, and Linda Lynch.

samfa.org

Texas Trust CU Theatre at Grand Prairie, 1001 Texas Trust Way

The Royal Comedy comes to Grand Prairie with Sommore, Bruce Bruce, Lavell Crawford, JJ Williamson, Special K, Q Coleman, and D Elli$.

texastrustcutheatre.com

Fort Concho National Historic Landmark, 630 South Oakes

This morning event starts with the Lions Club Pancake Breakfast, followed by ongoing entertainment, living history, demonstrations, exhibits, and displays reflecting the region's pioneer, military, agricultural, and ranching heritage.

fortconcho.com

Luckenbach Texas, 412 Luckenbach Town Loop

A day full of great bluegrass music, food, and a family-friendly atmosphere. The music line up starts at 1 p.m. and goes into the evening with lots of great artists and bands.

luckenbachtexas.com

Municipal Grounds, 405 N. Rusk St.

The Texoma Earth Day Festival offers a family-friendly event with something for everyone. Come for entertainment, education, food, and fun.

earthdaytexoma.org

Big Bend Ranch State Park Complex Interior District, 1900 Sauceda Ranch Road

Enjoy stargazing, astrophotography, and an astronomy-based oral history at the Sauceda Airstrip. Participants can view the night sky through the lens of telescopes by amateur astronomers, and learn the basics of night sky photography, all accompanied by an educational narrative through space and time. The evening winds down at the South Leyva campground, with limited camping on the airstrip.

tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/big-bend-ranch

Government Canyon State Natural Area, 12861 Galm Road

Come see how water has shaped the past, present, and future of San Antonio’s largest natural area and the role it plays in helping protect our most precious resource. Learn tips and techniques on how each of us can be part of shaping and protecting the next 100 years of reliable, fresh water.

tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/government-canyon

Pedernales Falls State Park, 2585 Park Road 6026

To celebrate 100 years of State Parks, visit Pedernales Falls State Park and enjoy the benefits the night brings to natural areas, with stargazing and other nighttime activities like a camping demonstration, nocturnal wildlife table, and nighttime sensory-testing station. Night sky-friendly lighting is also demonstrated.

tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/pedernales-falls

Mission Tejas State Park, 19343 SH 21 East

This annual event provide visitors a variety of educational experiences and activities to experience 19th-century Texas pioneer life in the area around what is today Mission Tejas State Park.

tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/mission-tejas

Village Creek State Park, 8854 Park Road 74

Camp with a ranger, practice yoga, go for a bike ride or paddling adventure, learn dutch oven cooking, participate in craft activities, and get camping 101 how-to tips at this event.

tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/village-creek

Laredo Center for the Arts, 500 San Agustin Ave.

The Border is Beautiful Festival is a celebration of the bicultural art, music, and heritage in downtown Laredo. The family event is hosted by sister cities Laredo and Nuevo Laredo and seeks to bring together residents of neighboring South Texas border cities to celebrate the rich ecological and dynamic bicultural heritage that has shaped the Laredo region. Inside the Laredo Center for the Arts, attendees can view the "Art as Medicine" exhibit, Grammy-winning act Grupo Fantasma, an outdoor vendor market, delicious bites, and other festivities. Celebrate Earth Day with a night of music and unity as Laredo natives share the importance of the sister cities and highlights the Rio Grande and all the biodiversity it sustains.

rgisc.org/the-border-is-beautiful-festival-april-22-2023

Mitchell School, 306 E. Commercial St

Victoria Preservation Inc. presents its 33rd annual Historic Homes Tour, "Treasures of the Past." Come explore some of the historic buildings and homes and celebrate Victoria's unique cultural and architectural heritage.

victoriapreservation.com

Pease Park, Tudor Cottage and Terrace, 1100 Kingsbury St.

Austin Shakespeare presents a new project, Shakespeare’s Birthday: Celebrate Sonnets, a collaboration with the Pease Park Conservancy featuring poetry, music, and dance as well as cake and beverages. The event features the park’s newly restored 1920 Tutor cottage and terrace. 

austinshakespeare.org

Goose Island State Park, 202 S. Palmetto St.

Goose Island Extravaganza is an open house event for the public to come and experience what Goose Island has to offer. Activities include fishing, archery, kayaking, a star party, demonstrations, and food. Find educational program stations set up around the park, and enjoy bass fishing, geocaching, living history programs, outdoor skills such as archery, dutch oven cooking, fishing, and touch tank aquatic programs.

tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/goose-island

Kidd-Key Auditorium, 400 N. Elm St.

For the final concert of the 2022-23 season, Sherman Symphony Orchestra partners with regional choirs and professional vocalists to present a one-of-a-kind opera performance. 

shermansymphony.com

Hill Country Arts Foundation, 120 Point Theatre Road

Learn about Celtic culture while enjoying the festivities that include vendors, clans, music, food, the annual Highland Games, and dancing. The event takes place on the grounds of the Hill Country Arts Foundation which include a replica of Stonehenge that was created by the late Al Shepperd and Doug Hill more than 20 years ago.

hcaf.com

San Bernard National Wildlife Refuge, 2547 County Road 306

Tour the refuge on a marsh buggy. Free activities for children include archery, fishing for catfish, a BB gun range, bug sweeping, microscopes, touch tanks, and reptiles. Adults and children can both enjoy the popular "Birds of Prey" show by EarthQuest as well as the butterfly encounter tents. Refuge tours given by qualified naturalists can be enjoyed by marsh buggy or wagon. Guided walking tours to Bobcat Woods and to the largest Texas Live Oak are also available.

migrationcelebration.com

Stahlman Park, 2211 Bluewater Highway

Join Texas surfers as they remember and honor those who have gone before them. The event includes vendors, food trucks, a paddle-out, and a nighttime bonfire.

surfsidetx.org

Surfside Marina, 827 Gulf Road

Come for the crawfish, stay for the competition, where teams compete and judges select the best crawfish boil. The event also feature vendors and live music.

surfside-marina.com

Postoffice District, Postoffice Street between 20th and 23rd streets

Hosted by The Grand 1894 Opera House, this event introduces families to the arts and features live performances, storytellers, and arts and crafts.

thegrand.com

Koenig Park, 1700 San Jacinto St.

Celebrate Alsatian culture with foods, beverages, music, and dancing by the Alsatian Dancers of Texas, right beside the beautiful Medina River.

facebook.com/people/alsatian-festival-of-texas-2023/100078469555281/

Courtyard Theater, 1509 H Ave.

This concert features the Plano Symphony Orchestra’s brass quintet and percussion, marionettes, and dancers. Come dressed in your prince and princess attire to join in the fun. Kids learn about classical music and instruments as well as hear music from "Beauty and the Beast," "Star Wars," and other popular movies.

planosymphony.org

William E. Dollar Municipal Building, Garland City Hall, 200 N. Fifth St.

Explore Garland's history in the space industry. Exhibits and artifacts are on loan from NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston.

visitgarlandtx.com/garlandandbeyond

Various locations

Four of Jefferson's finest historical homes and featured gardens open their doors for tours. Docents dressed in period attire help provide information about the homes.

jeffersonpilgrimage.com

Jefferson Playhouse, Corner of Market and Henderson streets

"The Diamond Bessie Murder Trial" is a unique adaptation of the last stages of a nationally famous trial which actually took place in Jefferson in the late 1800s. After more than a half century of production, this play has become a tradition in itself during the annual Historical Pilgrimage.

diamondbessieplay.com

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.

ozona.com/events-calendar

Heritage Country Church Auditorium, 9929 Lark Trail

The goal of the Salado Cowboy Poetry and Music Gathering is to bring together a group of poets and musicians who are doing their parts to preserve the culture and heritage of the American West. This gathering gives these performers an opportunity to share their talent. These men and women are now, or have been in the past, a part of the working cowboy environment.

saladocowboypoetry.org

Various locations

Immerse yourself in the 19th century—period attire is optional but always fun. Events take place on different evenings and include the Illumination ceremony at old Oakwood Cemetery (where hundreds of Civil War veterans are buried and candles illuminate the headstones), a ladies tea, the Grand Ball, and the Presentation of Colors.

battleforjefferson.com

Village Creek State Park, 8854 Park Road 74

Join this ranger-led hike for a chance to see the unseen and learn how nocturnal creatures communicate and what effect the moon can have on natural cycles of plants and animals. This hike explores the sights and sounds of the night, illuminated by the Flower Full Moon of May, and how the ecosystems have changed over the last 100 years. Explore nocturnal creatures with black lights and listen to their languages with amplifying devices.

tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/village-creek

Messina Hof Winery and Resort, 4545 Old Reliance Road

Located at the Messina Hof estate winery, this weekend festival celebrates the 39th anniversary of the budding of the vines and the blooming of the roses. Guests gather to enjoy wine tastings, local vendors and artisans, food, pairing classes, and grape stomp competitions.

messinahof.com/wineandroses

Haggard Park, 901 E. 15th St.

It's the 19th year of Plano's AsiaFest, a showcase of the rich cultures of the continent that includes numerous cultural demonstrations, performances, and vendors and provides a fun and engaging time for the entire family.

visitplano.com/event/plano-asiafest-2023

Freeport Historical Museum, 311 E. Park Ave.

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in historic downtown Freeport with food trucks and live entertainment.

freeport.tx.us/page/historical_museum

Inks Lake State Park, 3630 Park Road 4 West

Spend a fun-filled and all-inclusive day with a variety of programs modified for accessibility needs. Adaptive events include water recreation, fishing, adaptive programs, and perhaps archery.

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

Brazos Bend State Park, 21901 FM 762

Brazos Bend State Park invites the community and visitors to spend the day at this expo-style event. Nonprofit organizations, respresentatives from other Texas State Parks around the region, rehabilitation groups, local sports teams, archelogy organizations, and other civic-minded entities are on hand to provide information about their causes. Food trucks are on-site throughout the day.

tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/brazos-bend

Caprock Canyons State Park and Trailway , 850 Caprock Canyon Road

This event highlights some of the experiences and resources of Caprock Canyons State Park, especially for first-time park users. Join experts familiar with the park in activities such as beginner hikes, beginner fishing clinics, how to visit a park safely and responsibly with presentations titled “Leave No Trace,” “Bison Etiquette,” and “Heat Safety,” and guided ranger vehicle tours. The event ends under the dark skies with a star party.

tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/caprock-canyons

Various locations

Organized by the Galveston Historical Foundation, this annual event gives the public a chance to tour the insides of private residences not normally open to the public.

galvestonhistory.org

Ford Center at The Star, 1 Cowboys Way

See the best of country music take the stage at the 58th Academy of Country Music Awards ceremony, heading to Ford Center at The Star in Frisco.

thestarinfrisco.com

Holiday Inn Resort, 100 Padre Blvd.

Runners, walkers, and everyone in between is invited to traverse the beach to raise money, with all proceeds going directly to the conservation and care of the Texas coast's precious sea turtles. Starting at the Holiday Inn Resort, this unique community event enables participants to experience the coastal beauty of South Padre Island up close and personal. There are three race categories: timed 5K, non-timed 5K, and a virtual option. Finishers receive a T-shirt and medal.

seaturtleinc.org

Opal Lawrence Historical Park, 711 E. Kearney St.

Celebrate National Historic Preservation Month with Historic Mesquite, Inc. during a fun evening on the grounds of the historic park.

historicmesquite.org

Lake Brownwood State Park, 200 State Highway Park Road 15

Enjoy a day of learning and fun at Lake Brownwood. Come explore the park and learn about its history, nature, wildlife, and recreational activities, including archery and catch-and-release fishing.

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

Davis Mountains State Park, Indian Lodge, State Highway 118 North, Park Road 3

Guided hikes, educational booths, and kid-friendly activities take place throughout the park. Snap pics at selfie stations placed at photogenic vistas, participate in a scavenger hunt, and end the day with a ranger-led sunset program at the Skyline Drive Overlook.

tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/davis-mountains

Colorado Bend State Park, 1201 Colorado Park Road

Cedar Choppers lived in tents and lean-to’s in their hardscrabble Hill Country life. See how they lived and worked, and get your hands on the tools they used to harvest the tallest cedars (ashe junipers) in Texas to make a living. Learn how the Scholten Brother’s Cedar Tap Railroad came from the town of Lometa to the Cedar Chopper Camp in Bend and its importance in the Cedar Choppers’ work. Be sure to stop by the dutch oven cooking presentation for some backcountry cooking and goodies.

tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/colorado-bend

Fairfield Lake State Park, 123 State Park Road 64

Celebrate 100 years of Texas State Parks at this fish derby for kids. The day provides an outdoor educational opportunity for youngsters at Fairfield Lake.

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

Daingerfield State Park, 455 Park Road 17

At this brand new event at Daingerfield State Park, visitors can learn about a variety of Texas Parks and Wildlife resources and get ideas on how to enjoy nature and the world outdoors. Activities include fishing with a ranger, kayak and canoeing, and a program about the animals you might see in the park.

tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/daingerfield

Various locations

Everyone is welcome aboard this two-day event that features four in-town destinations: the Historic Jefferson Train Show, RD Moses Railroad display, a Jefferson Historic Railway excursion, and the "Atalanta" railway car tour.

visitjeffersontexas.com/jefferson-texas-events

The Palace Theatre, 112 W. Sixth Ave.

This talented tribute band, anchored by brothers Billy, Matthew, and Ryan McGuigan, perform as themselves and leave the song choices completely in the hands of the audience. This is done through request cards that audience members fill out prior to the show. On the cards, audience members only need to fill out three things: their name, their favorite Beatles song, and the reason why they chose that song.

corsicanapalace.com/yesterday-today-the-beatles-experience

Fulton Harbor

Babes on the Bay is an all-women’s fishing tournament that has existed since 2000. The tournament is hosted by the CCA Texas Aransas Bay Chapter, based in Rockport. It was created to help educate women about the sport of saltwater fishing in a conservation-minded approach. The event includes cash pots, the Babes Shopping Mall, a food court, drinks, live music, and team shirts judging. The event kicks off at Fulton Park Fairgrounds.

babesonthebay.com

Plano Event Center, 2000 E. Spring Creek Parkway

Enjoy shopping from world-class mineral, gem, and fossil dealers and exhibitors, who display all varieties of rocks, minerals, fossils, polished stones, gemstone jewelry, and other natural treasures.

planoeventcenter.org/event/texas-mineral-fossil-plano-show-2023

Blanco State Park, 101 Park Road 23

Celebrate the historical, cultural, and natural heritage of the park and surrounding area. The event features multiple informational and activity stations throughout the park and programs and activities such as "The History of Blanco State Park and the Civilian Conservation Corps" and "Animals in Blanco State Park," plus a wildlife viewing station, fishing, and kayaking.

tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/blanco

Eisenhower State Park, 50 Park Road 20

At this fishing expo, learn how to become a fishing expert. All experience levels and ages are welcome. New anglers can learn all about the world of fishing, and more experienced anglers can test their skills. Programming includes topics like how to filet a fish, how to fry fish on the campfire, and how to cast a line. There's also a photo booth and weight station for fish.

tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/eisenhower

Gruene Hall, 1281 Gruene Road

This annual music jam, co-sponsored by KNBT2.1 FM Radio New Braunfels, is a celebration of Americana music featuring exceptional artists of the genre. Each year's event benefits a local charity.

gruenehall.com

Salmon Lake Park Texas, 247 Salmon Lake Road

Musicians and singers from around the state converge in Grapeland for the 26th annual festival, with music starting after noon and going well into the night.

salmonlakepark.com

Y.O. Ranch Hotel and Conference Center, 2033 Sidney Baker St.

Celebrating its 20th year, this exhibition offers works by some of the finest professional artists and craftspeople from Texas.

texasmasters.com

Mansfield Park and Main Street, 2886 SH 16 North

Bandera Pro Rodeo presents three nights of PRCA-sanctioned rodeos with bull riding, team roping, bareback riding, and other competitions. The annual Memorial Day Parade down Main Street gets underway at 11 a.m.

banderaprorodeo.org

Briscoe Western Art Museum, 210 W. Market St.

A major force in contemporary art in the Southwest from the early 1970s until her death in 1991, gallery director and art dealer Elaine Horwitch was instrumental in bringing experimental styles such as pop art, minimalism, and conceptual art to the Southwest. These paintings, sculptures, and works on paper reveal the breadth of art and innovation that occurred in the Southwest at a pivotal time of change. Featured artists include Tom Palmore, Billy Schenck, John Fincher, Fritz Scholder, and Anne Coe.

briscoemuseum.org

Texas Maritime Museum, 1202 Navigation Circle

This event is sponsored by the Maritime Museum and proceeds go toward furthering the museum's efforts. The festival includes wine tastings, beer, food, and live music.

texasmaritimemuseum.org

Crider's Rodeo and Dancehall, 2310 SH 39

For 95 years, Crider's Rodeo and Dancehall has been a entertainment spot along the banks of the Guadalupe River each summer, with seasonal rodeos, live music, and dancing on Saturday nights. The season kicks off on May 27 with a rodeo followed by dancing and live music by Mike Donnell.

cridersrandd.com

Copper Breaks State Park, 777 Park Road 62

Copper Breaks Day has been a community event at the park for years, but has been on hiatus for some time. Now, to celebrate Texas State Parks centennial, the park is hosting a reimagining of that historic event. Enjoy family fun, educational programming, and booths from local organizations.

tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/copper-breaks

Traders Village, 2602 Mayfield Road

Enjoy live music featuring Tejano artists from around the state, all-ages entertainment, food, and carnival rides.

tradersvillage.com/grand-prairie

National Museum of the Pacific War, 340 E. Main St.

At this event hosted at the National Museum of the Pacific War, visitors can remember those who gave their lives for the freedoms enjoyed today. The event includes guest speakers, music, and a wreath-laying ceremony.

pacificwarmuseum.org

Sugar Land Memorial Park, 15300 University Blvd.

Each Memorial Day, Sugar Land invites the community and visitors to pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving the country.

sugarlandtx.gov/437/special-events

Sam Houston Park, 4101 Line Ave.

Starlight Theater Free Summer Concert Series offers free music, local food trucks, vendors, and family-friendly fun Tuesday evenings at Sam Houston Park from the end of May to the end of August.

amarilloparks.org/home-parksrec

The Driskill Hotel, 604 Brazos St.

ATX Festival is the first festival devoted to television's history and future. It functions like a traditional film festival with premieres of new series, current hits, and cult favorites. The fest also offers access to the industry's leading professionals with cast and creator Q&A's and panels focusing on innovation in both production and content delivery.

atxfestival.com

San Marcos Plaza Park, 206 N. CM Allen Parkway

Pack a lawn chair or blanket and some refreshments and come to Plaza Park for Summer In The Park. This summer event is a San Marcos favorite with different bands of various genres playing every Thursday night from June to the second week of August.

summerintheparksm.org

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

The Coors Cowboy Club was formed in 2000 with a mission to promote Amarillo the cowboy way (that is, helping out your neighbors). Cowboys from area ranches join this friendly but serious competition with events that include saddle bronc, stray gathering, trailer loading, and wild cow milking.

coorsranchrodeo.com

Various locations

The annual Texas Route 66 Festival kicks off years of celebrations leading up to the centennial of Historic Route 66 in 2026. This year, the festival is packed with events along the route and throughout the Panhandle, including classic car shows, Texas Route 66 bus tours, cattle drives, parades, music festivals, and a grand finale festival on Amarillo’s Route 66 historic district.

visitamarillo.com/events/route-66

Downtown

Bring your special corvette or just come and gaze at the lineup of cars. Fun events take place on Friday, followed by the Show and Shine on Saturday, and then awards are given out.

facebook.com/bigcypresscorvetteshow

Various locations

This annual festival celebrates the agave and its influence on culture through food, film, music, science, and spirits. It brings communities together through accessible programming that includes talks by preeminent historians, botanists, artists, anthropologists, and archaeologists. The event offers tastings hosted by agave spirit producers, one-of-a-kind dining experiences, and performances by leading artists in contemporary and regional music.

agavemarfa.com

John L Kuykendall Events Center, 2200 Ranch Road 152

Along with the rodeo excitement, see the Texas Spirit Riders entertain the crowd with their tribute to the country's armed forces and heart-stopping performances on horseback. The Llano Rodeo Parade takes place in the afternoon on June 2.

llanochamber.org

Various locations

Artistic director 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.

victoriabachfestival.org

Various locations

The Austin Pond Society once again sponsors this charitable tour of ponds and gardens throughout the greater Austin area. The self-guided tour features streams, fountains, waterfalls, koi, and aquatic plants. Some of these ponds and gardens are certified wildlife habitats. This year's tour has a stronger emphasis on new DIY ponds and water gardens along with professionally built water gardens.

austinpondsociety.org

Llano Courthouse Square , 801 Ford St.

Spend a day in Llano learning about the history of the area. Visit with buffalo soldiers and frontiersmen, take a real stagecoach ride around town, tour the historic Red Top Jail and Llano County Courthouse, and visit the Llano County Historical Museum housed in an old drug store complete with a soda fountain. Quilters display their work at a quilt show in the courthouse while various vendors sell their merchandise. Participate in the adult and children's period costume contest and cobbler-baking contest. Children can also enjoy games and crafts around Courthouse Square. Then relax on the lawn listening to Texas and German-style music and enjoy dancing, trick ropers, and other entertainment.

llanomuseum.org

Downtown , 1000 S. Polk St.

The cattle drive consists of 60 Texas Longhorns along with motorized groups and riders that parade from downtown Amarillo to the Tri-state Fairgrounds in a procession that harkens back to the emergence of Amarillo as a premier cattle shipping market in the late 1800s and early 1900s. The Longhorns remain on display at the fairgrounds during the Coors Cowboy Club Ranch Rodeo on June 3-4.

visitamarillo.com

Grand Prairie Farmers Market, 120 W. Main St.

Join the Grand Prairie Farmers Market for its annual crawfish boil. Enjoy live music, delicious crawfish, a gift market, arts and crafts, and fun activities.

grandfungp.com/events/crawfish-boil

Various locations and Ellis County Museum, 201 S. College St.

This tour highlights the gingerbread architecture style that proliferated in Waxahachie during the late 1800s to the 1920s. Historically recognized buildings include the newly restored Ellis County Courthouse, the Ellis County Museum, Sims Library, and the Ellis County Art Museum, plus a selection of historic private homes. Tickets are available at the Ellis County Museum.

gingerbreadtrail.net

Kendall County Historic Jail, 208 E. San Antonio Ave.

The Kendall County Historic Jail was constructed in 1887 and served for a century as the county jail. In recent years, the Friends of the Kendall County Historic Jail have restored the space, bringing it back to life as a one-of-a-kind museum of Kendall County history. The jail is open for tours every Saturday.

thejail.org

Guadalupe River State Park, 3350 Park Road 31

Come on out to the park and help celebrate two milestones: 100 years of Texas State Parks and Guadalupe River State Park's 40th birthday. The day features a “Cake-Off," with the winner receiving a free guided tour of the Hill Country State Natural Area.

tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/guadalupe-river

Lake Arrowhead State Park, 229 Park Road 63

Enjoy this annual kid fishing rodeo and adult rough fish contest. Prizes are awarded, and no fishing license is required when you fish in any Texas State Park. Fishing supplies such as poles and tackle are available from the tackle loaner program while supplies last.

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

Lake Livingston State Park, 300 Park Road 65

Join park rangers for a day full of programs designed to teach all of the skills needed to start fishing. The event features backyard bass, how to cast, knot tying, fish species identification, information about rules and regulations, and a fishing event with prizes for all participants.

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

Daingerfield , 455 Park Road 17

Are you interested in learning how to cook in a Dutch oven? Bring your own equipment or borrow some from the group while supplies last. Extra equipment is limited. 

tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/daingerfield

Sea Center Texas, 302 Medical Drive

Pack your sunscreen, hat, lawn chair, and fishing gear for a couple of hours of catch-and-release fishing at this marine fish hatchery and visitor education center.

tpwd.texas.gov/fishing/sea-center-texas

Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, 3200 Darnell St.

This is the first presentation in more than a quarter century to fully examine the mastery of Robert Motherwell (1915–1991), a major figure who shaped postwar art. Beginning with the abstracted-figurative works that dominated Motherwell’s first decade of painting in the early 1940s, the exhibition highlights the subsequent key series that defined his oeuvre, offering new insights into his evolution as an artist.

themodern.org

Johnson County Sheriff's Posse Grounds, 1315 S. Main St.

This PRCA rodeo celebrates its 68th year. Contestants compete in bareback riding, bull riding, saddle bronc riding, steer wrestling, tie-down roping, team roping, and women’s barrel racing, and breakaway roping. There's also mutton busting and the Queen's Contest.

visitcleburne.com

Various locations

Amarillo Convention and Visitors Bureau hosts these bus tours that take passengers along the west and east sides of Texas Route 66, from Amarillo to as far away as Shamrock (east tour) and Glenrio, New Mexico (west tour). Visit the most iconic places along the route and learn about the history of the towns that the Mother Route went through.

visitamarillo.com/event/west-route-66-bus-tour/26767

Various locations

The roundup is Lockhart's largest annual festival and tourism event. Now celebrating its 50th year, it kicks off with the Queen's Coronation on Thursday. Activities the next three days include a petting zoo, pig races, a carnival, rodeo, barbecue cookoff, the Grand Parade, and live entertainment.

lockhartchamber.com/chisholm-trail-roundup

Amarillo College Recital Hall, West 22nd Avenue

"The Negro Motorist Green-Book" was a guidebook in the mid 20th century for African American travelers. It provided a list of hotels, boarding houses, taverns, restaurants, service stations, and other establishments throughout the country that served African Americans patrons. Learn more about this chapter in the history of Route 66 from award-winning author, photographer, and cultural documentarian Candacy Taylor.

visitamarillo.com

Historic Town Square, 300 Main St.

The Lavender Capital of Texas celebrates 18 years as one of the Hill Country's premier festival venues. Artisans, food, local and regional beer and wine, live music, and lots and lots of lavender are available. The first commercial lavender farm in the state of Texas, Hill Country Lavender, is open for tours. The festival is free to attend.

blancolavenderfest.com

Festival Park, 507 S. Pecan St.

The family-friendly Friday night Bluegrass Concert in Festival Park kicks off the Texas Blueberry Festival weekend.

tbf.nacogdoches.org

Kerr County Hill Country Youth Event Center, 3785 SH 27

See exciting rodeo events including bareback and saddle bronc riding, calf roping, team roping, ladies barrel racing, bull riding, calf scramble, and mutton busting for the kids.

lmrodeo.com

Texas Trust CU Theatre at Grand Prairie, 1001 Texas Trust Way

The Re:SET concert series was conceived as an artist- and fan-friendly alternative to the standard summer concert experience. Taking place over four weekends in the month of June, each weekend sees three cities in the same region hosting, with each Re:SET headliner playing each city on consecutive days. Performers in Dallas include Boygenius, Steve Lacy, James Blake, Toro Y Moi, and LCD Soundsystem.

dallas.resetconcertseries.com/tickets

Lake Colorado City State Park, 4582 FM 2836

With free admission all day long, bring the family out to hike, bike, or check out what the lake has to offer. Rangers provide a guided hike, a skins and skulls program, and if conditions are right, kayaking.

tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/lake-colorado-city

Garner State Park, 234 RR 1050

A summer dance tradition for generations of campers, this event invites visitors to honor the past as part of the Texas State Parks centennial celebration. The event features a concert by a surprise Texas artist, vintage campsites set up to show the evolution of camping tools and equipment over the past 100 years, and a presentation on the history of the Civilian Conservation Corps at Garner State Park.

tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/garner

Riverside Hall, 14643 Buls Road

Enjoy live music, dancing, and lively entertainment with bands and entertainers from morning into the night. A plate lunch of barbecue chicken, sausage, sauerkraut, and trimmings is available for purchase. Hamburgers are available in the evening. There are also arts and crafts, raffle prizes, a cake walk, and plenty of kolaches for sale.

kkfest.com

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

Art Squared Arts Market is a juried arts and fine crafts market that brings the best local artists together in one place. Find art of all kinds, live music, a free kids' arts and crafts booth, live art demonstrations, and other activities.

artsquaredmarket.com

Downtown , 200 E. Main St.

The Texas Blueberry Festival is a delightful day of fun for all ages. This year marks the event's 33rd anniversary. As the only state-sanctioned blueberry festival in Texas, this annual event attracts more than 20,000 people to Nacogdoches' historic downtown district.

texasblueberryfestival.com

Kuhlmann-King Museum, 402 E. Blanco Road

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

bahpsboerne.org

Cleburne State Park, 5800 Park Road 21

Enjoy a day filled with all things outdoors. Spend the day learning kayaking, archery, backyard bass fishing, Dutch oven cooking, and hiking.

tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/cleburne

Fort Parker State Park, 194 Park Road 28

In addition to enjoying the sights and sounds of beautiful Fort Parker State Park, find a variety of fun activities for the family to enjoy such as chuckwagon Dutch oven cooking, boat tours of Fort Parker Lake, canoe and kayak classes, archery and atlatl classes, Touch-a-Truck, a live raptor program, paddle board exploration, fishing, birding, and guided hikes.

tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/fort-parker

Downtown , Commerce Street from Austin to Bolton streets

For one week in June, Jacksonville becomes "Tomatoville." The 39th annual Tomato Festival in downtown Jacksonville offers events leading up to the big festival, with five blocks of vendors; a farmers market; fried green tomatoes; eating, peeling, packing, and salsa contests; live entertainment; a talent show; soccer and tennis tournaments; and an annual street dance.

jacksonvilletexas.com/tomato-fest

Main Plaza, 100 N. Main St.

Come hear traditional German music and stories of Boerne's historic past at these summer concerts featuring the Boerne Village Band.

ci.boerne.tx.us/1104/concerts-in-the-park

Various locations

Galveston is the birthplace of Juneteenth, and every year the community hosts citywide events that include symposiums, galas, an emancipation gospel celebration, a Juneteenth parade and picnic, and a reenactment of the reading of General Order No. 3, which informed the people of Texas that slavery ended.

juneteenthbirthplace.com

Crowley Theater, Corner of Austin and El Paso streets

Inspired by a desire to bring artist-made films usually screened in galleries and museums to viewers in Far West Texas, it has hosted a diverse array of talent, including Harmony Korine, Cat Power, and Larry Clark. In addition to films made by visual artists, the festival focuses on showing unusual and rare archival, experimental, documentary, and narrative cinema.

cinemarfa.org

Bastrop Main Street and Fisherman's Park, Main Street

The Bastrop Juneteenth Celebration committee has been observing the emancipation of African Americans and the contributions and accomplishments of local African American individuals for the past 36 years. The official celebration kicks off on Saturday with a parade down historic Main Street. The day continues with Family Freedom Festival at Fisherman's Park featuring live music, a DJ, food and small business vendors, kids and adult activities, and family competitions. A musical guest in the evening wraps up the festivities.

bastropjuneteenthcelebration.com

Rockport Festival Grounds, 1500 E. Laurel St.

Every third weekend of the month, come see live music, peruse the merchandise of over 100 vendors, and choose various eats from food trucks.

rockport-fulton.org

Barrow Brewing Company, 108 Royal St.

Join independent Central Texas craft brewers for a day of brotherhood and fellowship in Salado. This annual festival includes more than a dozen breweries, fun for the whole family, live music, and creekside activities.

barrowbrewing.com/salado-springs-beer-fest

Chisholm Trail Outdoor Museum, 101 Chisholm Trail

Enjoy an evening concert under the stars at Rowlett's world famous outdoor stage at the Chisholm Trail Outdoor Museum. Bring a lawn chair, grab a bite from the food trucks, and then sit back to listen to award-winning Western music artists and poets.

visitcleburne.com

204 San Antonio St.

Come celebrate Juneteenth at the Buda Amphitheater and City Park Pavilion. Enjoy food, music, vendors, and activities for the whole family.

visitbudatx.com

Cave Without a Name Throne Room, 325 Kreutzberg Road

Enjoy a variety of acoustic, world-beat music styles featuring the words and music of singer and performance artist Rudi Harst (vocals, acoustic guitar, Native American flute, dulcimer, harmonica, Tibetan bowls) surrounded by the Rudiments. The combination of Rudi and the Rudiments and the Queen's Throne Room at Cave Without a Name makes for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, no matter how many times you go.

cavewithoutaname.com

Sherman Municipal Grounds and Martin Luther King Park, 405 N. Rusk St.; 1120-1198 N. Broughton St.

Sherman's Juneteenth celebration features live music, a parade, and delicious food. Bring your family and join in commemorating the anniversary of the end of slavery in Texas.

facebook.com/shermanneighborhoodrec

Waterloo Park, 500 E. 12th St.

Get a taste of Austin's mobile soul food gems at this annual festival, which bills itself as "America's Juneteenth Celebration." From savory barbecue to Cajun-seasoned seafood and traditional soul food, over 10 food trucks are serving up mouthwatering dishes. The festival also has kids' activities, live music, and retail vendors.

19thfest.com

Traders Village, 2603 Mayfield Road

Celebrate Father’s Day at Traders Village with a car show and concert. Bring Dad and the whole family for live music and classic cars.

tradersvillage.com/grand-prairie

Falcon State Park, 146 Park Road 46

This one-day event is full of wild activities for everyone to enjoy at the park. Outdoor activities for all ages focus on different skills such as archery, kayaking, fishing, outdoor cooking, camping, and hiking.

tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/falcon

McKelligon Canyon Amphitheatre, 1331 McKelligon Canyon Road

Enjoy El Paso’s outdoor musical extravaganza, in the McKelligon Canyon Amphitheatre. This colorful musical spectacular celebrates the four major cultures that have influenced the City of the Sun. The Native American, the Spanish Conquistador, the Mexican, and the Western American cultures and their histories come alive through drama, song, and dance by a cast of over 50 performers.

vivaelpaso.org

Freeport Historical Museum, 311 E. Park

Fort Velasco Day commemorates the 191st anniversary of the Battle of Fort Velasco. This living history event brings reenactors from across the state to give visitors a glimpse of what life and conflict was like at the mouth of the Brazos River in 1830s Texas.

facebook.com/freeportmuseum

Various locations

This birding big day is a fun, fast-paced, semi-competitive race to see which team can identify the most brid species in Galveston County in 24 hours.

galvestonnaturetourism.org

Freeport Municipal Park, 421 N. Brazosport Blvd.

Since 1947, anglers have been drawn to this fishing tournament each year in the hopes of catching the biggest redfish, barracuda, or any other offshore or inshore fish. The Fishin’ Fiesta is sponsored by the Freeport Lions Club and offers games, food, live entertainment, dances, and arts and crafts. The fishing tournament is one of the largest on the Gulf and includes prizes for both offshore and inshore categories. A fireworks display takes place on Saturday night.

fishinfiesta.com

San Antonio Museum of Art, 200 W. Jones Ave.

The San Antonio Museum of Art looks back at the its heady past as the Lone Star Brewery in "Still Brewing Art." The exhibition features historic photographs and artwork including large-format brewery posters. In addition, the exhibition explores San Antonio's history as a brewing city and how the San Antonio River fits into the story. Opened in 1884, the Lone Star Brewery was the first large, mechanized brewery in Texas. It ceased operations with the advent of Prohibition, and in 1981, the San Antonio Museum of Art opened in the renovated complex.

samuseum.org/artwork/exhibition/still-brewing-art

Tyler Pounds Airport, 150 Airport Drive, #2-7

A tribute to the nation, Rose City Airfest is a family event that features military aircraft from the past and present. At the static display, guests can walk right up and see the aircrafts up close. Some let you actually climb inside them. The event also offers lots of vendors, information about flight, food, and games.

campvtyler.org/rose-city-airfest-2022

Van Cliburn Auditorum, 1200 Henderson Blvd.

The Texas Shakespeare Festival is East Texas' only professional theater company. The festival is a summer repertory company producing two Shakespeare plays, a non-Shakespearean classic, a musical, and a production for children. The main stage productions are produced in rotating repertory Thursday through Sunday, with an afternoon matinee and an evening performance each day. This summer's list of shows are: "The Comedy of Errors," "Pride and Prejudice," "Lear," and "Something Rotten." Additionally, the children's play "Todrick the Not-So-Terrible" has its world premiere.

texasshakespeare.com

Rockport Festival Grounds, 1500 E. Laurel St.

This annual fine art event starts with an art auction and continues with over 100 artists, jury selected from across the nation, showcasing their masterpieces in a variety of media and styles.

rockportartcenter.com

Dunbar Park, 803 FM 2004

Get out on Oyster Creek for some kayak and canoe fun. Teams compete to be one of the first 20 boats to retrieve eight different rubber ducks that are corralled along the creek and bring them back to the starting point to win a prize. The total course length is approximately 1 mile. Teams can consist of up to two people and should bring their own kayaks or canoes, lifejackets, and paddles.

lakejackson-tx.gov

Ebony Hills Golf Course, 300 W. Mark S. Pena Drive

Watch cooks battle it out on the grill to win best chicken, ribs, pork brisket, and rib-eye steak. Texas Cook’Em is one of the state’s biggest barbecue purses, awarding $25,000 to the winners. The event has a custom car/truck and hot rod show on July 2.

edinburg.com/texas-cookem-high-steaks-in-edinburg

Pleasant Hill Baptist Church, 13590 SH 110 S.

This annual Independence Day family event features live music, entertainment for the kids, free hotdogs, watermelon, food vendors, and a fireworks show at dusk. Organizers are accepting canned food items for local food banks.

phbctyler.com

Waxahachie Sports Complex and Downtown , 151 Broadhead Road; 100 W. Main St.

Designated the "Crape Myrtle Capital of Texas," Waxahachie hosts this annual patriotic celebration featuring a tailgate party and concert at Waxahachie Sports Complex, followed the next day by a parade through historic downtown Waxahachie, where blooming crape myrtles line the street, and a fireworks show.

waxahachiecvb.com

Various locations

Founded in 1972, the annual Spring Ho was first held the second full weekend in July, but through the years has grown into a weeklong event. Festivities include live music, shops by the creek, entertainment for kids and families, a fireworks show, and a parade.

springho.com

Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park, 432 Lady Bird Drive

The city of Fredericksburg hosts this fireworks show to celebrate Independence Day. Multiple viewing areas are available inside the park and at the Gillespie County Fairgrounds. Guests are encouraged to bring their own eats, drinks, and lawn chairs for seating.

fbgtx.org

Lee County Sheriff's Posse Rodeo Arena, 2495 SH 290 West

The Lee County Sheriff's Posse and Giddings Volunteer Fire Department team up for a big Fourth of July celebration. It starts with a day in the park, barbecue, and an auction to benefit the fire department. In the evening, the Sheriff's Posse hosts championship bull riding and mutton bustin, followed by fireworks and a dance.

giddingstx.com

Louise Hays Park, 202 Thompson Drive

This annual Independence Day celebration consists of a concert, vendors, and the largest fireworks display in the Texas Hill Country.

facebook.com/kerrvilles4th

Kokernot Municipal Park, 1500 Fighting Buck Ave.

Alpine's annual parade offers a car show, live music, and fireworks, plus Alpine Cowboys baseball, outdoor theater, and other entertainment.

visitalpinetx.com

Red Tail Pavilion, 2801 E. Spring Creek Parkway

Make a day of it and celebrate Independence Day with family fun at Plano’s All-American Fourth. The holiday event is in full swing with food, fireworks, and a “different” kind of parade, with rotary clubs presenting the city’s first static parade comprised of parked floats instead of moving ones. Bring a blanket or lawn chair to enjoy the show. Food and drinks are available for purchase. Be sure to explore the vendor market and the free kids' zone.

visitplano.com/event/planos-all-american-4th-2023

George A. Purefoy Municipal Center , 6101 Frisco Square Blvd.

Enjoy great food, music, and fireworks during one of North Texas’ biggest Independence Day celebrations. The fun starts in the afternoon with the Party in the Plaza.

friscofreedomfest.org

Historic Downtown Weatherford, 1 Courthouse Square

The 38th annual Parker County Peach Festival is shaping up to be peachy with a bounty of Parker County peaches and impressive vendors. Visitors can indulge in peach ice cream, peach cobbler, peach pie, peach tea, peach smoothies, ice cream topped with fresh peaches, or just plain ol’ juicy peaches. More than 200 quality arts and crafts, produce, activity, and food vendors line the streets, with the Parker County courthouse as the backdrop.

peachfestivaltx.com

Friona Community Center, 601 W. 15th St.

Each year, Friona hosts this fun-filled week that starts with a variety of events for all ages, including archery, concerts in the park, Painting with a Twist, and the annual Bun Run and Walk, and culminates with the big finale: the Cheeseburger Festival Cookoff. Festivalgoers get to enjoy a variety of burgers and a winner is crowned the Best Burger and awarded $1,000.

cityoffriona.com/cheeseburgerfestival

Omni PGA Frisco Resort, 4341 PGA Parkway

The invitation-only tournament field consists of the top high school golfers from across the country who have won their respective state championships as a team or as an individual. Champions are crowned following the three-day 54-hole stroke play event. The championship brings together a wide variety of golfers from nearly all 50 states with the girls event taking place on July 10-12 and the boys competing July 17-19.

highschoolgolf.org/2023-national-high-school-golf-invitational

Bastrop Convention and Exhibit Center, 1408 Chestnut St. B

What started out as a couple of clubs getting together quickly grew into a large event that includes over 300 Corvette owners. In only a few years, the event has tripled in size and continues to grow. Among the highlights is Danny Reed's 1969 Astro Vette once owned by Astronaut Alan L. Bean, music by the Clutch Kings, and parade laps at the Circuit of The Americas Formula 1 track.

corvetteinvasion.com

Inks Lake State Park, 3630 Park Road 4 West

Bring your own boat, kayak, canoe, or ski boat, or borrow one from the park, and celebrate 100 years of paddling at Inks Lake. Join the fun to see just how many boats can get in the lake at one time. A parade follows the new paddling trail from the Park Store to the South Fishing Pier and back. There are also races at various times for those with a need for some competition.

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

Bush Convention Center, 105 N. Main St.

Celebration of the Arts, organized by the Arts Council of Midland, is back for its 39th year. The cornerstone fine art, fine craft event in the Permian Basin, Celebration of the Arts features local artists and entertainers, nonprofit organizations, family activities, and special events throughout the weekend. Friday night offers a ticketed Premier Party showcasing visual artists.

acmidland.org

Briscoe Western Art Museum, 210 W. Market St.

One of the Briscoe Western Art Museum's most treasured annual events, National Day of the Cowboy is celebrated on the fourth Saturday of July each year. Attracting Western fans of all ages to the museum's home on the River Walk, the day is filled with boots, hats, and all things cowboy, cowgirl, and vaquero. The celebration includes hands-on Western lessons like the art of the lasso, cowboy poetry, chuckwagon treats, and cowboy crooning filling the air of the museum's McNutt Sculpture Garden.

briscoemuseum.org

Bandera County Courthouse and Mansfield Park, 500 Main St.; 2886 SH 16

Celebrate the National Day of the American Cowboy with activities at the Bandera County Courthouse lawn. Enjoy chuckwagon storytelling from cowboys on Main Street, wagon rides, pictures with a longhorn, games, shootouts from the Bandera Gunfighters, trick ropers, live music, and special Old West guests, and a medicine show. Ridin' the River Cowboy Fellowship Rodeo takes place at Mansfield Park Arena, with the "Bulls, Barrels, and Breakaway Contest" evening event.

banderabusiness.com

Sea Rim State Park, 19335 S. Gulfway Drive

At this annual event, children between the ages of 1 and 12 receive a free fishing rod and T-shirt while supplies last. Kids can then use that rod to catch as many fish as they can to compete for prizes. Volunteers are on the beach to record size and number of fish caught for each kid as well as provide bait and fishing advice.

tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/sea-rim

Various locations

Viva Big Bend’s 12th year features 60-plus shows in a wide range of music genres at more than 10 venues in Alpine, Marfa, Fort Davis, Marathon, and Terlingua.

vivabigbend.com

Melon Patch Grounds, 100 Front St.

One of the biggest events in the area, the 85th annual Watermelon Festival and Rodeo draws people from far and wide. Along with plenty of East Texas melons that are as sweet as they come, the festival holds one of the biggest parades in northeastern Texas and includes a street dance, arts and craft booths, a fully sanctioned PRCA rodeo, an antique car show, corn hole, horse shoes, food, wineritas, and bingo.

facebook.com/naplesmelonpatch

Clute Municipal Park, 100 Parkview Drive

The Great Texas Mosquito Festival is three days of family fun with a carnival, vendors, barbecue contest, 5K run, tournaments, and the ever-popular mosquito legs and calling contests. The evenings are topped off with live music. Don't forget to take your picture with everyone's favorite mosquito, "Willie-Man-Chew."

mosquitofestival.com

The AgriCultural Museum and Arts Center, 102 City Park Road

The Boerne AgriCultural Museum and Arts Center hosts their 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.

theagricultural.org/tractorpull

The 36th annual Goatneck Bike Ride is a rolling hill course with distances of 10, 27, 41, or 70 miles. Last year's event had close to 1,500 riders. The ride goes throughout Johnson County, and prevailing winds during this time of year come from the southwest, providing a tail wind for the last portion of the ride coming into the finish. The race begins at Cleburne Bible Church.

thegoatneck.us

Jefferson Visitor Center, 305 E. Austin St.

History buffs can expect full days of presentations, speakers, exhibits, and vendors, with a focus on Jefferson and the surrounding areas and the part the community played in this unique time in the country's history.

jeffersonmuseum.com

Historic Murphy Street, 105 E. Murphy Ave.

This free concert and street festival on historic Murphy Street celebrates Alpine’s history and has featured storytellers, video interviews, historic exhibits, a tour of homes, music, food, and dancing over the years. This year's featured artist is Grammy Award-winning Tejano legend Augustin Ramirez, “La Ley de Tejas.”

visitalpinetx.com

Blackburn Dam, Farm-to-Market Road 1892

Canoeists and kayakers, young and old, experts and beginners, they all come out in large numbers for "The Toughest Little Race in Texas." The course covers 22 miles of the scenic, largely uninhabited Neches River. It's also an opportunity to experience wild nature on the Neches Trail.

necheswildernessrace.com

Grand Prairie Farmers Market, 120 W. Main St.

Get your hot, roasted Hatch chiles at the Grand Prairie Farmers Market’s annual Hatch Chile Festival. The festival features both raw and roasted Hatch chiles sold by the pound, live music, food, drinks, and other offerings.

grandfungp.com/events/hatch-chile-festival

Kickapoo Cavern State Park, 20939 RR 674

Enjoy an evening cavern tour, with hopefully a bat flight to view. Then watch the Perseids meteor shower alongside a stargazing event. A second event takes place during the eclipse of the moon on Oct. 14.

tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/kickapoo-cavern

Bastrop Opera House, 711 Spring St.

Truvy’s salon is Chinquapin, Louisiana’s go-to place for a beauty fix with a hearty side of gossip. Along with her overeager assistant Annelle, Truvy pampers her small-town clients with hairdos, manicures and all kinds of unsolicited advice.

bastropoperahouse.org

Texas Rose Museum, 420 Rose Park Drive

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

texasrosefestival.com