A note regarding COVID-19
Upcoming Events in Piney Woods
The Woodlands
50th Anniversary Celebration
Oct. 14-19
Various locations
The Woodlands celebrates turning 50 with festivities that include a free concert with Lyle Lovett and Hayes Carll, a tree dedication ceremony, mural unveiling, and a family extravanganza that includes a drone and fireworks show above Lake Woodlands.
Tyler
Texas Rose Festival
Oct. 17-20
Tyler Rose Garden, 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.
Texarkana
Fall Festival
Oct. 17
Spring Lake Park, 4303 N. Park Road
The annual Fall Festival is filled with carnival games, bounce houses, costume contests, face painting, and hay rides. The evening ends with a movie in the park where the community can set up blankets and chairs and enjoy concessions with their families.
The Woodlands
“Hocus Pocus Pops”
Oct. 17
The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, 2006 Lake Robbins Drive
Ring in the spooky season with a grand performance by the Houston Symphony. Kids in costume are invited onstage for the Goblin Parade during this annual Woodlands tradition.
Wine Walk at Market Street
Oct. 17
Market Street, 9595 Six Pines Drive
Three blocks of Market Street are filled with a variety of culinary creations, wine displays with industry experts, craft beers, and live music. Expect more than 50 beverage options and 30-plus culinary offerings from area restaurants, chefs, and caterers.
Woodville
Harvest Festival
Oct. 18-19
Heritage Village Museum, 157 PR 6000
An East Texas folk life festival includes pioneer demonstrations, performances, and music. There’s a Wild West reenactment, food, and artisans.
The Woodlands
The Woodlands’ 50th Anniversary Concert Celebration with Lyle Lovett
Oct. 18
The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, 2006 Lake Robbins Drive
The day before The Woodlands 50th Anniversary, the festivities begin with a free concert at The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, featuring Lyle Lovett and his Large Band.
Palestine
Fall Harvest Lunch Train
Oct. 19, 26
Texas State Railroad Palestine Depot, 789 Park Road 70
Savor the flavors and sights of East Texas on this four-hour round-trip train ride that features complimentary appetizers and champagne or cider followed by a catered lunch served on the grounds of the Rusk Rail Depot.
Jefferson
Bigfoot Conference
Oct. 19
Jefferson Convention and Visitor Center, 305 E. Austin St.
Established in 2001 as the original annual Bigfoot Conference in Texas by the Texas Bigfoot Research Center, the event includes expert speakers, presentations, special screenings, and some surprises.
Montgomery
Voices From the Past
Oct. 19
Old Churchyard Cemetery and New Montgomery Cemetery, 500 Old Plantersville Road
Actors in period dress stand by graves and recount the departeds’ lives and contributions to Montgomery and Texas history. Visitors have an intimate look at the lives of many patriots buried there, including Dr. Charles B. Stewart, who designed the Texas Lone Star Flag and created the Texas Seal, which included the Lone Star from a button on his father’s jacket.
Jefferson
Taste of Jefferson
Oct. 20
Downtown , Austin Street
Streets are closed off and tables and chairs are set up outside to showcase local restaurants. Come for a stroll downtown, sample favorite dishes, and hear some live music.
Nacogdoches
SFA Homecoming
Oct. 21-26
Stephen F. Austin State University, 1936 North St.
Stephen F. Austin State University’s annual homecoming is one of the university’s most popular and spirited traditions. Activities include a concert, bonfire, fireworks, downtown parade, 5K race, homecoming court elections, a football game, and tailgating.
sfasu.edu/student-life/student-engagement/lumberjack-spirit-traditions/homecoming
Tyler
“Stomp”
Oct. 24
UT Tyler Cowan Center, 3900 University Blvd.
“Stomp” is explosive, inventive, provocative, witty, and utterly unique—an unforgettable experience for audiences of all ages. The international percussion sensation has garnered armfuls of awards and rave reviews and has appeared on numerous national television shows. The eight-member troupe uses everything but conventional percussion instruments—matchboxes, wooden poles, brooms, garbage cans, Zippo lighters, hubcaps–to fill the stage with magnificent rhythms.
Gladewater
FallFest
Oct. 26
Broadway School Playground, 200 Broadway Ave.
Gladewater’s first responders, the city of Gladewater, and the Gladewater Chamber work to provide a safe environment for youngsters to wear costumes, play various games, and enjoy bounce houses, free hotdogs, popcorn, cotton candy, and other treats.
Palestine
Hot Pepper Festival
Oct. 26
More than 10,000 visitors come to this festival to enjoy spicy food, music, games, vendors, the annual parade (starting at the Anderson County Courthouse), arts and crafts vendors, food vendors, a kids zone, beer gardens, and live music all day long.
Soap Box Derby
Oct. 26
Historic Old Town and Downtown , Main Street District
Dogwood Youth Sports presents a soap box derby for boys and girls. Teams consist of 12 members ages 8 to 13, and cars are custom made. The championship race occurs at the annual Hot Pepper Festival.
Huntsville
Scare on the Square
Oct. 26
Downtown , University Avenue
The annual Halloween festival features games, activities, and trick-or-treating for all ages. Get in the spirit and dress in your best Halloween costume.
Tyler
Alex Guarnaschelli
Oct. 29
UT Tyler Cowan Center, 3900 University Blvd.
Iron Chef Alex Guarnaschelli is a world-renowned chef and one of Food Network’s top stars. Guarnaschelli first appeared on the network in 2006 and has since been part of hundreds of episodes of programming on the network, including as a judge on “Chopped,” co-host of “The Kitchen,” host of “Supermarket Stakeout,” and star of “Alex vs America.” As a competitor, she beat nine rival chefs to win “The Next Iron Chef: Redemption,” joining the ranks of Kitchen Stadium Iron Chefs. She also hosts the award-winning digital series, “Fix Me a Plate,” and is the author of the cookbooks “Old-School Comfort Food: The Way I Learned to Cook (2013),” “The Home Cook: Recipes to Know by Heart (2017),” and most recently “Cook with Me: 150 Recipes for the Home Cook (2020).” Guarnaschelli thrills audiences with her unbeatable culinary talents while empowering them to pursue their passions.
The Woodlands
Texas Fine Craft Show
Nov. 1
The Woodlands Resort, 2301 N. Millbend Drive
This inaugural craft show welcomes art lovers to a curated, intimate environment that celebrates the art of fine craft. Fine artisans display their handcrafted works featuring fiber, wood, jewelry, glass, and ceramic items and techniques from around the world.
Winnsboro
Art and Wine Festival
Nov. 1-2
The Bowery , 200 Market St.
Winnsboro Center for the Arts presents a weekend celebration of artistic expression, regional wines, culinary treats, and live Texas music. The 15th annual festival features juried works from more than 40 talented artists from across the country. The event takes place in downtown Winnsboro and allows guests to leisurely meander through Winnsboro’s Cultural Arts District.
Nacogdoches
Dia de los Muertos
Nov. 2
Downtown Nacogdoches, 200 E. Main St.
The Nacogdoches square comes alive with music, dancing, food, vendors, and fun for all ages. It’s free to attend.
Jefferson
Diamond Don Dual Sport Adventure Ride
Nov. 2-3
Diamond Don RV Park , 1602 SH 49 Eeast
Ride through the back roads of the Piney Woods in northeast Texas. There are Saturday and Sunday ride options of short and long loops. Some of the dirt roads harken back to stagecoaches and wagon trails with high bluffs on each side.
History Haunts and Legends
Nov. 2
Jefferson Convention and Visitor Center, 305 E. Austin St.
This paranormal conference is for the history buff, avid ghost hunter, and anyone with an interest in the unexplained or things that go bump in the night. There are special guest speakers, vendors, book signings, night-time tours, and ghostly investigations.
Gladewater
Holiday Open House
Nov. 9
Downtown Gladewater, Main Street
The Gladewater Antique District begins the celebration of Christmas with the Holiday Open House. Stores are open late and seasonal entertainment fills downtown. Food trucks are available, in addition to local restaurants. The season’s Christmas tree is also lit for the first time.
Henderson
Heritage Syrup Festival
Nov. 9
Downtown , 100 E. Main St.
The sweetest festival in Texas is centered around the tradition of ribbon cane syrup-making and features folk arts, antique tractors and cars, arts and crafts, unique shopping, and live entertainment for the entire family.
Huntsville
Holiday Market
Nov. 9-10
Walker County Fairgrounds, 3925 SH 30 West
Start your holiday shopping early and find a range of merchandise, from antiques and jewelry items to home décor and collectibles. Grab bags are handed out to the first 25 people through the door.
Gladewater
Christmastyme in Gusherville
Nov. 9
Downtown , 215 N. Main St.
The Gladewater Antique District celebrates the Christmas season with the annual holiday open house and festivities that include food trucks, a children’s area where letters to Santa can be written and mailed, and the lighting of a new 22-inch Christmas tree adorned with 8,300 lights.
Palestine
The Polar Express Train Ride
Nov. 15-Dec. 28
Texas State Railroad, 789 Park Road 70
Read along with the story as the historic steam train makes its magical round-trip from the Palestine Depot to the North Pole. Meet Santa and enjoy caroling, hot cocoa, and a treat and special gift for each child. Departure times vary by date. Please pre-purchase tickets, as most trains sell out.
Christmas on Main Street
Nov. 15-Jan. 2
Downtown , Main Street
See the Parade of Lights and a heartwarming Christmas movie in the park. Eat at the Christmas Brunch at Queen Street Grill. Then enjoy the magical Santa’s Workshop, pictures with Santa, and other festive fun.
Jefferson
Diamond in the Rough
Nov. 15-17
Diamond Don RV Park, 1602 SH 49 East
Travel the back roads of the Piney Woods at this dual sport adventure ride. The weekend includes a new rider orientation, self-organized rides, a meet-and-greet dinner, fireworks, and the walking Poker Run. Adventure, dual sport, and street-only riders are welcome. The rain date is Dec. 6-8.
The Woodlands
The Ice Rink at The Woodlands
Nov. 16-Jan. 20
The Ice Rink, 2005 Lake Robbins Drive
Enjoy ice skating this holiday season at the indoor ice skating rink located in the heart of The Woodlands town center. The Woodlands Ice Rink is open seasonally from mid-November through mid-January.
Nacogdoches
Holiday in the Pines
Nov. 21-23
Nacogdoches County Exposition and Civic Center, 3805 NW Stallings Drive
More than 60 specialty stores and shops from coast-to-coast gather for holiday shopping in a festive atmosphere.
Palestine
Walk of Lights
Nov. 21-Dec. 30
Walk of Lights, 2161 FM 315
Enjoy a stroll through a self-guided magical lit-up wonderland. A concession stand with hot chocolate and other goodies is available.
The Grinch’s Lair
Nov. 22-Dec. 22
Texas Jailhouse, 704 Ave. A
He’s mean. He’s green. He’s in Palestine. Be greeted by a Who’s Who of Whoville before being sent down into the lair, where Mr. Grinch gives you a tour through his Texas Jail House home.
The Woodlands
Lighting of the Doves
Nov. 23
Town Green Park, 2099 Lake Robbins Drive
This longstanding tradition signifies the start of the holiday season in the community. Enjoy live music, fireworks, family-friendly vendors, and Santa arriving on a sled down The Woodlands Waterway.
Hughes Springs
Holiday on First Street
Nov. 25
Wineries, vendors, businesses, and food trucks line the main strip of town for the evening. There are drawings for wine bottles and gift cards for participants.
Nacogdoches
Wassail Fest
Nov. 30
Downtown Nacogdoches, 200 E. Main St.
Shop local this holiday season and enjoy tasting delicious spiced wassail while you’re out. Downtown merchants offer different wassail recipes in each shop. Try them all and get your shopping done in one day.
Jefferson
Christmas Parade and Lighting of Enchanted Forest
Nov. 30
Downtown and Lions Club Park, 515 E. Jefferson St.
See over 100 decorated Christmas floats light up and ring in the holidays. There’s also caroling, the lighting of the Christmas trees, and Santa’s arrival atop a fire engine.
Candlelight Tour of Homes
Dec. 5-7, 12-14
Various locations
Tour historic homes not usually open to the public. Each home is lavishly decorated for the season. Docents in period costumes greet guests and chronicle each home’s origins and finery.
Lindale
Santa’s Bake Shop
Dec. 6-7
Lillie Russell Memorial Library, 200 E. Hubbard St.
On Friday night, the lighting of the Memorial Tree commemorates loved ones who have passed on. Saturday is Santa’s Bake Shop, where you can shop for homemade cookies. Kids can get a photo with Santa or play games outside while adults enjoy hot cocoa, a silent auction, and entertainment.
Nacogdoches
Nine Flags Lighted Christmas Parade
Dec. 7
Downtown, 200 E. Main St.
Nacogdoches rings in the season with their Christmas Parade. Lighted entries come from local businesses, schools, churches, and individuals, and include decorated floats, vehicles, and walking groups.
Hughes Springs
Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting
Dec. 7
Hughes Springs Chamber of Commerce, 603 E. First St.
A Christmas parade rings in the holiday season, accompanied by a tree lighting that makes the town twinkle with Christmas cheer.
Woodville
Christmas Twilight Tour
Dec. 7
Heritage Village, 157 PR 6000
Tour the Heritage Village by oil lamps and lanterns. Enjoy natural greenery, cookies, and hot apple cider. There’s music on the Village Green stage followed by a Christmas service in the old Cherokee Church.
Palestine
Christmas Parade of Lights
Dec. 7
Downtown , Main Street
At Palestine’s only nighttime parade, the Main Street district comes alive with colorful lights, beautiful floats, and smiles all around.
“The Sounds of Christmas” Concert
Dec. 8
Palestine High School Auditorium, 1600 Loop 256
The Anderson County Community Chorus presents “The Sounds of Christmas,” an annual concert featuring traditional holiday songs and multiple instrumentalists.
A Seussified Christmas Carol and Variety Show
Dec. 13-15
The Texas Theater, 213 W. Crawford St.
Join along for a unique twist on Charles Dickens’ classic tale, reimagined in the playful and rhyming style of Dr. Seuss. This live, interactive production promises to bring joy and laughter to audiences of all ages. In addition to the main performance, enjoy a variety show featuring local talent, adding even more festive fun to the evening.
Christmas Market
Dec. 13-14
Meals on Wheels Senior Activity Center, 200 N. Church St.
This holiday shopping event offers a collection of specialty boutiques and merchants showcasing handmade, vintage-inspired gifts, artwork, gourmet foods, jewelry, seasonal decorations, housewares, adult and children’s clothing.
A Walk Through Bethlehem
Dec. 13-15
Montalba Baptist Church, SH 19 and FM 321
Free guided tours through the streets of “Bethlehem” begin with a hay ride to the gates. Take a walk through the streets, complete with live animals and a show with local vendors.
Nacogdoches
Christmas Tour of Homes
Dec. 14
Various locations , 200 E. Main St.
Tour some of the beautiful homes and structures of Nacogdoches during the holiday season. Tickets become available in November at the Visitors Center (200 E. Main St.) or during the event at any of the homes.
Millard’s Crossing Old-Fashioned Christmas
Dec. 14
Millard’s Crossing Historic Village, 6020 North St.
Guests experience live Christmas caroling, a photo op with Santa, a petting zoo, hayrides, a special Christmas tree lighting, face painting, a hot cocoa bar, food, lots of holiday demos, and crafts. Also, Lamp-Lite Theatre presents three showings of its “A Christmas Carol” production.
Gladewater
Christmas Parade
Dec. 14
Downtown, East Pacific Street
Excitement fills the air as patrons enjoy the annual Gladewater Christmas Parade. Participants show their creativity in decorating festive floats.
Woodville
Kids Winter Festival
Dec. 14
Heritage Village, 157 PR 6000
Tour the Heritage Village Museum and get a photo with Santa then watch “The Polar Express” while enjoying some hot chocolate and snacks.
Palestine
Dogwood Jamboree
Dec. 14
Palestine High School Auditorium, 1600 Loop 256
The Dogwood Jamboree is a Branson-style country music show filled with family fun, laughter, and classic country music.
Montgomery
Christmas in Historic Montgomery
Dec. 14
Montgomery Community Building, 14220 Liberty St.
Montgomery County’s oldest Christmas celebration offers a full day of events in downtown Montgomery. The event includes strolling carolers, the Holiday Marketplace offering homemade gifts and décor, old-fashioned decorations in the historic buildings on the evening historic home tour, and the famous Cookie Walk with tables laden with decorative cookies and candies to purchase by the pound. The city of Montgomery sponsors an old-fashioned parade in the morning.
Palestine
Dash and Splash 5K
Jan. 1
Palestine YMCA, 5500 SH-256 Loop
Kick off the new year with a refreshing challenge as you race through a scenic 5K course, starting and finishing at the pool gate. After crossing the finish line, take the plunge with an optional polar plunge into the pool. Participants receive commemorative shirts and medals, and those brave enough to take the plunge can compete for trophies in various categories.
Faire of Champions
Jan. 4-Feb. 2
Faire of Champions, 4033 CR 2212
This winter fantasy fair, where Renaissance meets Comicon, is set on a sprawling 107-acre property. Witness the mightiest of champions in thrilling combat, explore a marketplace filled with handcrafted goods, delicious food, and unique trinkets, and enjoy performances by talented musicians, dancers, and actors. Each weekend features a different theme. Camping is available.
Gladewater
Night at the Museum
Jan. 18
The Gladewater Museum, 116 W. Pacific Ave.
On the third Saturday of January each year, the Gladewater Museum hosts this fun and informative event which spotlights Gladewater’s past and present history. Guest speakers, craftsmen, and authors are only a few of the people that have been invited to participate.
Tyler
“Ain’t Too Proud–The Life and Times of The Temptations”
Jan. 21
UT Tyler Cowan Center, 3900 University Blvd.
“Ain’t Too Proud–The Life and Times of The Temptations” is the smash-hit Broadway musical that follows The Temptations’ extraordinary journey from the streets of Detroit to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. It’s a thrilling story of brotherhood, family, loyalty, and betrayal during a decade of civil unrest in America.
“Menopause The Musical 2: Cruising Through ‘The Change”
Feb. 6
UT Tyler Cowan Center, 3900 University Blvd.
The hysterical sequel to the smash-hit “Menopause The Musical” is finally here. Join in on a trip of self-discovery, backed by a new soundtrack of toe-tapping parodied hits from the ‘70s, ‘80s, and ‘90s. For these four ladies, menopause was not the end, but the beginning of a beautiful friendship where love conquers all, and friendships never fail. Mature content and language.
Jefferson
Queen Mab Ball
Feb. 8
Jefferson Convention and Visitor Center, 305 E. Austin St.
Welcome Mardi Gras season with an evening of fun, food and drinks, live entertainment, dancing, costumes, and the crowning of the 2025 Mardi Gras King and Queen.
Tyler
Beatles to Bourbon Street Featuring The Fabulous Equinox Orchestra
Feb. 13
UT Tyler Cowan Center, 3900 University Blvd.
How do you make Beatles music even more fun? Take it to Mardi Gras in New Orleans and orchestrate it all for a big band. Jeremy Davis and Clay Johnson, along with their Fabulous Equinox Orchestra, make their own revisions to America’s songbook, including melodies from more recent history.
Jane Pauley
Feb. 25
UT Tyler Cowan Center, 3900 University Blvd.
Jane Pauley is one of broadcasting’s most respected journalists and hosts. Prior to anchoring on CBS, Pauley spent over a decade on NBC’s “Today” and co-hosted “Dateline NBC.” She is the recipient of multiple Emmy Awards, the Walter Cronkite Award for Excellence in Journalism, the Edward R. Murrow Award for outstanding achievement, and the Gracie Allen Award from the Foundation of American Women in Radio and Television.
Jefferson
Mardi Gras
Feb. 28-March 2
Downtown
The 36th annual event, themed Rock ‘n’ Roll on the River, offers all-day festivities including children’s activities, a carnival, food trucks, arts and craft vendors, a parade, and plenty of costumes, free beads, T-shirts, king cake, and crayfish.
Tyler
“Alice”
March 4
UT Tyler Cowan Center, 3900 University Blvd.
Blending illusion, acrobatics, magic, and whimsy, Momix sends audiences flying down the rabbit hole in Moses Pendleton’s newest creation, “Alice,” inspired by Lewis Carroll’s classic “Alice in Wonderland.”
