A note regarding COVID-19
Upcoming Events in Piney Woods
Tyler
Azalea and Spring Flower Trail
March 21-April 6
Goodman Museum, 624 N. Broadway Ave.
Each spring Tyler celebrates the season with more than 10 miles of residential gardens and historic homesites covered with azaleas, tulips, wisteria, dogwood, and other flowers. This annual spring event has been described as a floral wonderland and a photographer’s paradise.
Palestine
Dogwood Trails Celebration
March 22-April 5
Davey Dogwood Park, 900 N. Link St.
For over 80 years, Palestine has celebrated the delicate beauty of the dogwood trees in Davey Dogwood Park the last two weeks in March and first week in April. Each weekend is filled with activities to complement the celebration, including a festival on the first weekend.
Fairy Garden Trails
March 22-April 30
Davey Dogwood Park, 900 N. Link St.
Explore hidden fairy gardens amidst the scenic trails in Davey Dogwood Park. Wander the path to see magical tiny abodes, handmade by creative designers far and wide. The first half of the mile-long trail is paved for ADA accessibility, with an unpaved loop that is suitable for scooters and strollers.
visitpalestine.com/p/things-to-do/festivals--parades/fairy-garden-trails
Old Time Music and Dulcimer Festival
March 27-29
First Baptist Church , 5700 N. Loop 256
Experience the vibrant sounds of the Old Time Music and Dulcimer Festival. The festival kicks off with a Thursday evening concert, followed by morning workshops and afternoon jamming sessions each day on Friday and Saturday. Explore rooms with various musical styles, from autoharps to beginner dulcimer jams.
Jefferson
Bags, Bling, and Bingo
March 27
Jefferson Convention and Visitor Center, 305 E. Austin St.
Spend an evening of laughter, gaming, and fun while having a chance to take home a designer handbag, some high-end jewelry, or one of the many more elegant prizes. Wine, tea, and coffee are included.
Palestine
“The Sound of Music”
March 28-April 6
The Texas Theatre, 213 W. Crawford St.
This family-friendly production tells the heartwarming story of a lively governess who brings joy and music into a naval captain’s home.
Tyler
Historic Tyler on Tour
March 28-30
Various locations, Pollard Neighborhood
Each spring during the Azalea Trail, see inside some of Tyler’s landmark houses as you stroll through the city’s first historic district. A candlelight garden party and tour kicks off the annual weekend (held at 3117 Dinah Lane in the Pollard Neighborhood). Enjoy hors d’oeuvres, libations, live music, a photo booth, and a tour of a 1955 International Ranch style home. The next day features tours of midcentury homes including a 1949 International Ranch, a 1952 Colonial Revival Ranch, and a 1955 Colonial Revival Ranch. Some of the homes are residential designs by noted architects E. Davis Wilcox and Carl Gregory.
Jefferson
City-Wide Rummage Sale
April 3-5
Various locations
Experience the thrill of the hunt as homeowners clear out their treasures from closets, storerooms, and garages all over town. Many retailers also participate. Maps are provided and can be picked up at the Marion County Chamber of Commerce office on Austin Street.
Livingston
Piecemakers Quilt Show
April 4-5
Polk County Commerce Center, 1017 US 59 Loop North
The Quilting Among Friends Quilt Show has over 100 quilts on display, vendors, a boutique, demonstrations, silent auction, and gift baskets. Purchase raffle tickets for a chance to win a new sewing and quilting machine.
Tyler
“The Cher Show”
April 5
UT Tyler Cowan Center, 3900 University Blvd.
For six straight decades, only one unstoppable force has flat-out dominated popular culture—breaking down barriers, pushing boundaries, and letting nothing and no one stand in her way. “The Cher Show” is the Tony Award-winning musical of her story, and it’s packed with so much Cher that it takes three women to play her: the bright-eyed kid starting out, the glam pop star, and the icon.
Nacogdoches
SFA Gardens Spring Plant Sale
April 5
SFA Pineywoods Native Plant Center, 2900 Raguet St.
Find a huge variety of Texas-tough plants, plus annuals, perennials, edibles, and native and pollinator-friendly plants.
Jefferson
Spring History, Haunts, and Legends
April 5
Jefferson Convention and Visitor Center, 305 E. Austin St.
This fun spring event is for the history buff, avid ghost hunter, and anyone with an interest in the unexplained and things that go bump in the night. There are special guest speakers, authors, vendors, book signings, galleries, night-time tours, and investigations.
The Woodlands
Waterway Arts Festival
April 11-13
The Woodlands Waterway and Town Green Park, 2099 Lake Robbins Drive
Over 200 fine artists and crafters put their unique work on display. Find offerings such as paintings, pottery, sculptures, distinctive apparel, and jewelry. Enjoy live music across three stages, a literary arts stage, interactive art activities for kids, local food, craft beer, and fine wines.
Grapeland
Salmon Lake Park Bluegrass Fun Pick
April 11-13
Salmon Lake Park, 247 Salmon Lake Road
This event provides musicians of all levels a chance to join a vibrant community of bluegrass lovers for a laid-back weekend of camping and pickin’.
Nacogdoches
Wine Swirl
April 12
Downtown, 200 E. Main St.
Sip wine from wineries across Texas along the beautiful brick streets of Nacogdoches.
Spring Brewfest
April 12
Nacogdoches County Exposition and Civic Center, 3805 NW Stallings Drive
Sample over 25 different beers, wines, meads, and ciders crafted by local beer-tenders from Fredonia Brewery as well as other brewers from all over East Texas and beyond.
Montgomery
Gran Fondo Texas
April 13
Montgomery High School, 22825 SH 105 West
Gran Fondo Texas is a charity bike ride supporting The National MS Society, the Texas Medical Center Orchestra, and the Montgomery County Food Bank. Routes include passage through the beautiful Sam Houston National Forest with distances from 31 to 100 miles.
Jefferson
Outlaw Nationals Car Show
April 18-19
Downtown
Jefferson’s most popular and longest-running car show is open to all—if it runs, bring it. Activities include karaoke on Friday night, live entertainment and a live auction on Saturday night, and awards to be given out before the auction.
The Woodlands
The Chevron Championship
April 24-27
The Club at Carlton Woods, One Carlton Woods Drive
The best players on the LPGA Tour compete in the first major golf championship of the year, held on the Jack Nicklaus Signature Course at The Club at Carlton Woods. The defending champion is world No. 1 Nelly Korda.
Linden
Wildflower Trails of Texas
April 25-26
Linden City Square, 100 E. Houston St.
The 55th annual tricity festival celebrates the wildflowers that grow between the northeast Texas towns of Linden, Avinger, and Hughes Springs. Festivities, which vary by town, include art, quilt, flower, and car shows; hot dog eating contests; bingo; parades; and live performances.
Huntsville
General Sam Houston Day
April 26
Sam Houston Memorial Museum and Republic of Texas Presidential Library, 1836 Sam Houston Ave.
Step back in time for an event honoring Sam Houston and his times (1793-1863). Enjoy historical demonstrations, hands-on activities, and period music. Tour the homes the Houstons lived in while in Huntsville, gain access into the Steamboat House and the 19th-century cabins on the property.
Jefferson
Historic Jefferson Pilgrimage
May 1-4
Downtown
This weekend allows visitors the opportunity to “step back in time” and experience historic home tours, the “Diamond Bessie” murder trial play, twilight garden tours, a plant sale, craft fair sale, quilt exhibit, tours of Jay Gould’s private rail car, a parade, and other festivities unique to this event.
Nacogdoches
Sale on the Trail
May 2-3
Various locations, 200 E. Main St.
The El Camino Real Sale on the Trail takes place along 111 miles of the historic El Camino Real de los Tejas. Make plans to drive the trail for yard sale bargains. Along the trail, shoppers find new and used items sold by local businesses and private individuals.
Red Brick Bluegrass Festival
May 2-3
Festival Park, 507 S. Pecan St.
Formerly known as the Blueberry Bluegrass Concert in the Park, the Red Brick Bluegrass Festival is a free, family-friendly concert with food trucks and vendors.
Jefferson
Battle for Jefferson
May 2-4
The Jeffersonian Institute , 120 E. Austin St.
The 25th annual Civil War reenactment in historic Jefferson, features two full-scale battles, period encampments throughout the historic district, student living history demonstrations, a grand ball, a ladies tea, secret codes of the underground railroad, period sutlers, and the Illumination event at Oakwood Cemetery.
Kilgore
Geekend
May 3-4
Downtown, 207 E. Main St.
Geeks take over downtown for the 12th annual Geekend. Family-fun activities include live performances, cosplay, games, shopping from vendors, and contests.
Palestine
Wiggy Thump
May 10
ACYLA Pavilion, 750 US 287 North
Over the past five years, the Whiskey Myers band has built up the Wiggy Thump Festival as a must-see for all fans of the Southern rockers.
Nacogdoches
Scottish Highland Games
May 10
Nacogdoches County Expo and Civic Center , 3805 NW Stallings Drive
At this lively celebration of Scottish and Irish heritage, visitors can enjoy live Celtic music, kilt-adorned athletes participating in traditional competitions, food, Scottish merchandise, living history demonstrations, and, of course, bagpipes.
Grapeland
Gospel Bluegrass Festival
May 22-24
Salmon Lake Park, 247 Salmon Lake Road
For the 28th year, gospel bluegrass bands gather for this Memorial Day weekend celebration at Salmon Lake Park. Bluegrass gospel artists perform uplifting songs at this beloved East Texas outdoor music festival.
Gladewater
Round-Up Rodeo
June 4-7
Rodeo Grounds, 2502 W. Upshur Ave.
Since 1937, Gladewater has featured one of the best known, nationally sanctioned PRCA rodeos in the country with four days of Old West-style rodeo acts, including bull riding.
Jefferson
Big Cypress Corvette Weekend
June 5-7
Downtown
Every first weekend of June, Corvettes from around the state line up along the historic brick streets of Jefferson and cruise the roads around the Piney Woods. On Saturday is the Show and Shine, followed by awards in categories like Best of Show and Participant’s Choice.
Palestine
The Speak Easy Special
June 7
Texas State Railroad, 789 Park Road 70
Journey back in time 100 years to an era of prosperity, indulgence, and carefree living. Depart from the Palestine Depot in your finest 1920s attire, and enjoy an evening filled with live music, dancing, and drinks.
Winnsboro
Farmers Market
June 7-Aug. 30
Farmers Market Pavillion, 111 E. Carengie St.
Find fresh, local agricultural products at this farmers market, open on Saturdays and voted the third best farmers market in Texas according American Farmland Trust’s 2024 market shopper poll. Stroll through a vibrant, community-driven market and meet local farmers and savor the flavors of East Texas.
Longview
Great Texas Balloon Race and Festival
June 13-15
Longview Convention Complex, 1123 Jaycee Drive
Balloon teams from across the country are competing in hot air balloon races. In addition to the competition, there are vendors, food, drinks, live music, specialty shape balloons, a balloon glow, and a drone show.
Nacogdoches
Texas Blueberry Festival
June 14
Downtown, 200 E. Main St.
One of the most delicious festivals in the Lone Star State, the Texas Blueberry Festival marks its 35th year with a daylong celebration of the blueberry harvest. As the only state-sanctioned blueberry festival in Texas, this annual event attracts more than 19,000 people to downtown Nacogdoches.
Kilgore
Rangerette Dance Camp
June 19-21
Masters Gymnasium, Elder Street
The Rangerette Summer Dance Camp offers young dancers the chance to train with the world-famous Kilgore College Rangerettes, learning precise dance moves.
Winnsboro
“Barefoot In the Park”
June 20-29
Winnsboro Center For The Arts, 200 Market St.
“Barefoot in the Park” is one of the most beloved comedies from Neil Simon. Newlyweds Corie and Paul Bratter are over the moon to begin their life together in their new apartment in Manhattan. The young couple must learn how to accept and embrace their differences as they learn that marriage is no easy walk in the park.
Kilgore
Texas Shakespeare Festival
June 26-July 27
Van Cliburn Auditorium, 1200 S. Henderson Blvd.
East Texas’ only professional theater company performs each summer in rep 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 plays include “Twelfth Night” and “Macbeth.”
Palestine
Dogwood Jamboree
June 28
Palestine High School Auditorium, 1600 SH Loop 256
The Dogwood Jamboree is a Branson-style country music show filled with family fun, laughter, and classic country music. The concerts take place four times a year in April, June, September, and December.
Pints in the Pines
June 28
Texas State Railroad, 789 Park Road 70
What could be better than enjoying the beautiful East Texas Piney Woods from a vintage train whilst sipping local ales? This is an adults-only excursion departing from Palestine and traveling to the Rusk Rail Depot. Sample several local or regional beers and appetizers. Upon arrival in Rusk, enjoy a catered dinner with dessert outside as the sun sets.
Gladewater
Freedom Fest
July 3
Lake Gladewater, 1604 Lakeshore Drive
See fireworks over Lake Gladewater and the Austin Bank Boat Parade. Food trucks are on site.
Hughes Springs
Hometown Fourth
July 4
Hughes Springs ISD, 809 Russell St.
The local volunteer fire department shoots off a fireworks show for all to see.
Nacogdoches
Freedom Fest
July 4
Festival Park, 507 S. Pecan St.
The annual Fourth of July celebration features fireworks, food trucks, and vendors. Bring the whole family for this locally loved event.
Longview
Freedom and Fireworks Celebration
July 4
Longview Convention Complex, 1123 Jaycee Drive
Enjoy a free concert on the outdoor Zippy J’s music stage. There’s also a free cruise night and patriotic car show. Bring your classic, custom, or patriotically decorated vehicle to receive prime parking as space allows. Vendors, entertainment, a hot dog eating contest, trivia, cornhole, and fireworks are also happening around town.
Kilgore
Fourth of July Extravaganza
July 4
Kilgore City Park, East North Street
A concert by The Jukebox Heroes starts in the evening, then fireworks begin at night. Bring chairs and blankets.
Crockett
Freedom Over Crockett
July 4
Davy Crockett Memorial Park, 600 Bradshaw St.
The Independence Day celebration begins with a traditional parade starting downtown to end at the Davy Crockett Memorial Park, where food vendors and crafts are available for attendees as they enjoy music and kids’ activities. The exciting 20-minute fireworks show starts as soon as it gets dark.
Winnsboro
Fireworks on the Fourth
July 4
Pleasure Point Park, County Road 4860
The Winnsboro Chamber of Commerce invites visitors to its annual fireworks display. Celebrate Independence Day at Lake Winnsboro and experience the beauty of the lake while enjoying a spectacular fireworks show.
Jefferson
Jefferson Salutes America
July 4
Downtown
Enjoy an old-fashioned celebration of the country’s birthday. Activities at Ostott Park include a kids parade, homemade ice cream contest, pie auction, games, and live music. At night, the Grand Finale Fireworks Show starts over the Big Cypress Bayou by the historical LED lighted bridge.
Winnsboro
Adam and Chris Carroll in Concert
July 12
Winnsboro Center for the Arts, 200 Market St.
Adam and Chris Carroll are a husband and wife duo, both singer-songwriters, who met at a music festival in 2012 and have been touring together since their 2013 marriage, initially as co-headliners before developing into a popular act.
Kilgore
REEL East Texas Summer Film Intensive
July 14-18
Texan Theater, 201 S. Kilgore St.
The REEL East Texas Summer Film Intensive is a hands-on program where student filmmakers learn from industry professionals while creating their own short films. Through workshops, mentorship, and real-world experience, participants develop their storytelling and technical skills in the heart of East Texas.
Huntsville
Texas Thimble Trail One Stop Shop Hop Vendor Market
July 18-19
Walker County Fair Grounds, 3925 SH 30
This two-day extravaganza is a must visit for quilting and sewing enthusiasts with a wide array of vendors showcasing the latest fabrics, patterns, and sewing supplies, plus live demonstrations and classes.
Palestine
“Alice in Wonderland”
July 18-27
Texas Theatre, 213 W. Crawford St.
An adaptation for live theater of Lewis Carroll’s “Alice in Wonderland” is sure to be an amazing experience for all theater enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Wine in the Pines Train Ride
July 19
Texas State Railroad, 789 Park Road 70
Enjoy an evening of wine tasting aboard the vintage rails of the Texas State Railroad. The train departs from the Palestine Depot and embarks on a 4-hour, round trip ride through the Piney Woods of East Texas to the Rusk Depot where you stop and have dinner under the stars.
Jefferson
Caddo Fly Fishing Expo
July 19
Jefferson Convention and Visitors Center, 305 E. Austin St.
At this celebration of the sport of fly fishing, visitors can see fly tying demonstrations and lessons, get casting instructions, learn kayak fishing tips, and shop for new gear.
Civil War Symposium
Aug. 2
Jefferson Convention and Visitors Center, 305 E. Austin St.
The event spends a whole day focused on various aspects of the Trans-Mississippi Civil War history, with presentations, expert speakers, exhibits, vendors, an auction, and lunch. There’s also a Friday night speakers reception.
Palestine
Fiesta Flyer Dinner Train
Aug. 9
Texas State Railroad, 789 Park Road 70
Traverse the tracks to the Rusk Depot, where you are treated to a Mexican-themed dinner served on the beautiful grounds by the lake. During dinner, a mariachi band provides music for dancing.
Winnsboro
“Romeo and Juliet”
Aug. 15-24
Winnsboro Center For The Arts, 200 Market St.
Winnsboro Center for the Arts presents William Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet.” The play was adapted by Dr. John A. Price, the director of theatre, with a fresh new twist. Everyone will not only understand but enjoy this tragic tale of first love.
Gladewater
Elvis Tribute Concert
Aug. 16
Jackson’s Theatre, 108 E. Commerce Ave.
Jackson Foltyn is back again with his award-winning Elvis tribute show.
Jefferson
UFOcon
Aug. 23
Jefferson Convention and Visitors Center, 305 E. Austin St.
This UFO convention covers Texas-based UFO sightings, alien encounters, and UFO crash sites.
Winnsboro
Labor Day Car Show
Aug. 30
Winnsboro Train Depot, 100 E. Broadway
Cruise into historic downtown Winnsboro for a car show featuring automobiles, trucks, and motorcycles from the 1940s to today. Enjoy a day of nostalgia, food, shopping, and family fun as you admire beautifully restored vehicles.
