A note regarding COVID-19
Dallas
"Endlings"
Feb. 10-19
Rosewood Center, 5938 Skillman St.
Dallas Children's Theater presents the final production of Cry Havoc Theater Company, a teen theater company that has been celebrated for putting young artists in the lead as creators and actors of bold art that disrupts expectations and shakes up old, entrenched conversations. "Endlings" is a thought-provoking play that tackles climate change, social justice, grief, the pandemic, and art with frank, youthful honesty. Post-show conversations with subject matter resources follow every performance.
Bandera
Cowboy Mardi Gras Bull Riding
Feb. 11
Mansfiled Park Rodeo Arena, 2886 SH 16 N.
Watch as talented bullriders attempt to beat the clock and stay atop excited bulls, putting on a great show the whole family can enjoy.
Beaumont
Mardi Gras Southeast Texas
Feb. 16-19
Great Lawn of the Event Center, 700 Crockett St.
Enjoy four days of family-friendly fun in downtown Beaumont, with parades, concerts, kids' activities, arts and crafts, and food vendors.
Surfside Beach
Marathon
Feb. 18
Stahlman Park, 2211 Bluewater Highway
The Surfside Beach Marathon includes a marathon, half marathon, 5K, and kids' 1K. At the post-run party, runners can enjoy Texas barbecue, drinks, and games. Races start as the sun rises over the water and follow the public beach to San Luis Pass, then return. The entire course is on the firm, smooth sand.
Huntsville
Experience a Day in the Life of a CCC Enrollee
Feb. 18
Huntsville State Park, 565 Park Road 40 W.
Take an interactive tour through the life of the Civilian Conservation Corps. Read about the corps' formation, get hands-on with their tools and uniforms, visit the camp store to shop the benefits of being an enrollee, and hear from members of the corps themselves, though their newsletter, as you stand in Ravens Lodge and look out at Lake Raven that they helped create.
Mckinney
Krewe of Barkus Dog Parade
Feb. 19
Mitchell Park, 300 W. Louisiana St.
At this parade held each year on the Sunday before Mardi Gras, dogs and their owners dress up in costumes based on the special theme of the event, then they parade around McKinney's downtown square. Prizes are awarded in multiple categories. Music, food trucks, and pet-related vendors add to the festivities.
Fredericksburg
Enchanted Rock 45th Birthday Celebration
March 2
Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, 18 miles north on Ranch Road 965
March 2 marks 45 years since Enchanted Rock became a State Natural Area, and this is one of the many 100-anniversary celebrations for Texas State Parks this year. Guarantee entry by reserving a free day pass up to one month before this special event. Proposed festivities include a fair-type event with area volunteers and interpreters showcasing different activities including backyard bass fishing, birding, skins and skulls, water colour, atlatl, etc.
Corsicana
Food Truck Friday
March 3, April 14, May 5, June 2, July 7
Brick Streets Brewery, 224 E. 5th St.
Live music, games, and, of course, food trucks fill the parking lot behind Brick Streets Brewery in the evening. Come join the fun on the first Friday of every month (except April) from March through July.
Sherman
"Judy Moody and Stink: The Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad Treasure Hunt"
March 3-12
Finley Theatre, 500 N. Elm St.
Presented by Sherman Community Players' Theatricks group, this show asks the audience to join in on the shenanigans that never fail to follow Judy Moody and her little brother, Stink.
Temple
Quanah Parker Family Day
March 4
Temple Railroad and Heritage Museum, 315 W. Avenue B
Quanah Parker played an important role in the narrative of indigenous people in Texas. Learn about Texas history, the Comanche Tribe, and have fun with crafts and activities after visiting the new exhibition, "Quanah Parker: One Man, Two Worlds."
Port Arthur
Spring Family Fun Day
March 4
Museum of the Gulf Coast, 700 Procter St.
Family Fun Day is a free event with children's activities and educational experiences. Previous Family Fun Days have included snake and horse education, "Star Wars" characters, face painting, and a parrot performance.
Kerrville
Hill Country Cluster of Dogs Show
March 4
Kerr County Hill Country Youth Event Center, 3785 SH 27
Almost 700 dogs compete in different classes at this free and family-friendly event that also has vendors and food trucks.
Bandera
Cowboys On Main
March 4-May 27
On Saturdays, find free cowboy fun in downtown Bandera with activities that can include a chuckwagon storyteller, hopping on a saddle-broke longhorn, or a ride in a horse-drawn wagon for a tour of Bandera. Gunfighter reenactment shows take place twice a day.
Lake Jackson
Abner Jackson Plantation Site Tour
March 4, April 1, May 6
Abner Jackson Plantation Site, Farm-to-Market Road 2004 near State Highway 332, behind Target
Visit the historic archeological site of Maj. Abner Jackson, the namesake of the city of Lake Jackson. Once a prosperous sugar plantation, the site was destroyed by the same hurricane that devastated Galveston in 1900. Discover the sugar-making process of the 1840s and how convict labor replaced slave labor during the 1870s.
Clute
Planetarium Show
March 7, 14, 21, 24, 28
Center for the Arts and Sciences, 400 College Blvd.
This show features a 30-foot dome equipped with a Spitz Star Ball projector that reproduces the night sky, along with a variety of other high-tech equipment to give visitors a close-up feel of comets, exploding stars, and black holes.
Sherman
St. Patrick's Day Parade
March 11
Downtown
Join Sherman Main Street, Texoma Society of CELTS, and the Old Iron Post for Sherman's St. Patrick's Day Parade in historic downtown Sherman. Bring your friends and family to check out all of the groups and music.
Lake Jackson
Food Truck Festival
March 11
MacLean Park, 93 Lake Road
Along with visiting food trucks and eating delicious food, attendees can participate in a cornhole tournament, chalk-the-lot contest, and other activities.
Surfside Beach
St. Patrick's Day Parade
March 11
Surfside Beach City Hall, 1304 Monument Drive
One of the longest-lasting and most fun traditions held at Surfside Beach, this annual event includes a parade where part of the route goes down the beach, and there are plenty of free beads and candy thrown from the floats. In addition to the parade, there are costume contests, a social, fundraisers, and a reenactment of the Battle of Fort Velasco.
Olmito
Resaca Adventure Day
March 11
Resaca de la Palma State Park, 1000 New Carmen Ave., off State Highway 281 or Farm-to-Market Road 1732
Walk through a history of Texas State Parks and enjoy the park with arts and crafts, food, and a 5K Legacy Run to honor the 100 years of Texas State Parks.
Livingston
Frontier Day
March 11
Lake Livingston State Park, 300 State Park Road 65
At this special Frontier Day, programs focus on the lives of the pioneers who explored and settled in Texas, with topics ranging from dutch oven cooking to primitive fire-starting methods to products of the pine industry.
Grand Prairie
Kids' Fest
March 11-12
Traders Village, 2602 Mayfield Road
Bring the whole family out for a day of fun and kid-friendly activities, plus carnival rides and food.
Fredericksburg
Spring Break at the Pioneer Museum
March 13-18
Pioneer Museum, 325 W. Main St.
The musuem grounds are full of family fun with living history demonstrations that include tomahawk throwing, cornhusk doll-making, chuckwagon cooking, butter churning, pioneer laundry, frontier songs, and games.
Huntsville
Spring Break Recreation
March 13-17
Huntsville State Park, 565 Park Road 40 West
Celebrate spring break in the outdoors at Huntsville State Park, with five days of fishing, geocaching, bird watching, hiking, campfires, and other activities. Whether you are an avid outdoor recreationalist or wanting to try something for the first time, this week is your opportunity.
Jefferson
St. Patrick's Day Express Train
March 15
Historic Jefferson Railway, 400 E. Austin St.
Celebrate the holiday aboard the St. Patrick’s Day Express. The historic depot is decked out in green, and the train ride includes a stop at the Diamond Don Gator Pit for alligator feeding (weather permitting).
Granbury
Paddy Parade
March 16
Historic Downtown Granbury, Pearl Street
Wear your green and welcome St. Patrick's Day in Granbury. The parade runs from Pearl Street to the Granbury Square to Crockett Street.
Amarillo
Disney on Ice: "Let's Celebrate"
March 16-19
Amarillo Civic Center , 401 S. Buchanan St.
Your favorite Disney characters return to Amarillo for Disney On Ice's "Let’s Celebrate," which features 14 classic and modern Disney stories in one production.
Mesquite
Mesquite Rocks
March 16, April 15, May 13
Mesquite Arts Center, 1527 N. Galloway Ave.
Join the Mesquite Arts Center for this monthly free family-friendly event with performances by tribute bands that cover the greatest hits of popular musicians and folk music.
Rockport-fulton
Market Days
March 17-19, April 14-16, May 19-21
Rockport Festival Grounds, 100 Seabreeze Drive
Every third weekend of the month, enjoy live music played throughout the weekend, peruse the goods at over 100 vendors and resellers, plus taste dishes from over a dozen food trucks and vendors. There is shaded seating, and pets are allowed.
Palestine
Dogwood Trails Celebration
March 17-April 2
Davey Dogwood Park and surrounding Forest Trails, 825 W. Spring St.
Enjoy the delicate beauty of the dogwood trees in Davey Dogwood Park the last two weeks in March and first week in April. Activities are scheduled each weekend to compliment the celebration, including a festival the first weekend. Stop at Palestine Visitor Center for venues and maps.
visitpalestine.com/p/things-to-do/84th-annualbrdogwood-trails-celebration
Fairy Garden Trail
March 17-April 30
Davey Dogwood Park, 4205 N. Link St.
There is so much more to explore in Davey Dogwood Park this spring—the 5.5 miles of driving trails provide beautiful views, but park the car and step onto the trails and see how many of the hidden fairy gardens you can find.
Freeport
Dinosaur George Days
March 17-28
Freeport Historical Museum, 311 E. Park Ave.
Dinosaur George returns to the Freeport Historical Museum, bringing real artifacts and over 150 exhibit pieces of prehistoric life to the coastal community.
Grand Prairie
"The SpongeBob Musical"
March 17-19, 24-26
Uptown Theater, 120 E. Main St.
The stakes are higher than ever in this dynamic stage musical, as SpongeBob and all of Bikini Bottom face the total annihilation of their undersea world. Chaos erupts. Lives hang in the balance. And just when all hope seems lost, a most unexpected hero rises up and takes center stage. The power of optimism really can save the world.
Sugar Land
Banana Ball World Tour
March 17
Constellation Field, 1 Stadium Drive
The Savannah Bananas have grown in popularity as the “World Famous Baseball Circus” and have been featured on ESPN and CNN and in the "Wall Street Journal" and "Sports Illustrated," along with a documentary-style series called “Bananaland,” available on ESPN+. They’ll be playing the Party Animals, a team created by the Bananas to compete at a high level while also participating in the circus-style presentation.
milb.com/sugar-land/news/savannah-bananas-coming-to-constellation-field-in-2023
Granbury
Founder's Day Jubilee and Cookoff
March 18-20
Historic Granbury Square, 201 E. Pearl St.
Head to Granbury's square for a weekend of fun and celebrations. Put your tastebuds up to the challenge of choosing the best ribs, brisket, or beans. Think you've got what it takes to win? Share your own barbecue cookin' in the annual Bean and Barbecue Cookoff. There's free cake and ice cream, craft and shopping vendors, fun activities, live music, and the hilarious outhouse race, too.
visitgranbury.com/events/annual-events/general-granburys-birthday
Plano
Plano Symphony Orchestra: Young Artists and "Symphonie Fantastique"
March 18
Christ United Methodist Church, 3101 Coit Road
Joined by the three grand prize winners of the Plano Symphony Orchestra’s annual Collin County Young Artist Competition, Maestro Guzmán considers sharing the stage with the talented young artists to be among the most inspiring experiences of his career. This concert also features Belioz's imaginative "Symphonie Fantastique."
Palestine
Dogwood Trails Festival
March 18
Downtown and Old Town Palestine, 825 W. Spring St.
For over 80 years, Palestine has celebrated the Dogwood Trails Festival. This long-running event in downtown and Old Town Palestine offers a parade, craft and novelty vendors, food vendors, art galleries, street entertainment, and live music.
Boston Porter Memorial Bull Riding
March 18
Anderson County Youth Livestock Pavilion, 750 SH 287 North
Enjoy a kids' rodeo in the afternoon and the bull-riding event in the evening. Organizers are matching some of the country’s rankest bulls with the best pro bull riders.
Lake Jackson
Bird Banding
March 18, April 15, May 20
Gulf Coast Bird Observatory, 299 SH 332 West
Watch volunteers collect baseline data on bird populations at the sanctuary. The banding station is an excellent opportunity to see birds up close and to learn all the birds of the Brazosport area.
West Columbia
Market Day at Varner-Hogg
March 18
Varner-Hogg Plantation State Historic Site, 1702 N. 13th St.
Load up the kids, grab your canvas bags, and head to Varner-Hogg State Historic Site for a day of shopping and supporting local small business owners. Plus, there's free admission to the site during market hours.
Bend
White Bass Run at the Bend
March 18
Colorado Bend State Park, 1201 Colorado Park Road
For generations, families have come to cast their lines for white bass during their spawning run. Find out what the "lure" is all about. A fly-fishing station with demonstrations helps visitors learn the art of fly casting, how to choose a fly, fly tying, and how to read the river to catch white bass. Both kids and adults can learn basic fishing skills before hitting the water and discover how this species differs from others in Texas rivers and streams. A 1-mile Tot Trot is also available for children 12 years and younger.
San Angelo
Texas State Parks 100-Year Celebration
March 18
San Angelo State Park, 362 S. FM 2288
Come to the park and celebrate the 100-year anniversary of Texas State Parks. Events and activities include archery, wildlife viewing, birding, a guided hike, longhorn and bison viewing, canoes for paddling on the lake, fishing with a ranger, biking on the trails, and horseback riding.
Whitney
Play Day at Lake Whitney State Park
March 18
Lake Whitney State Park, 433 FM 1244
Throughout the day, enjoy special programs, scavenger hunts, nature walks, and other fun activities for all ages.
Stargazing at Lake Whitney State Park
March 18
Lake Whitney State Park, 433 FM 1244
Register for an evening in the park where guests can explore the galaxy by star maps and telescope. Celebrate parks with retired National Park Ranger Larry Smith as he guides you through the planets, moon, and stars with fascinating facts.
Del Rio
Texas State Parks Centennial Dark Skies Celebration
March 18
Devils River State Natural Area, 21715 Dolan Creek Road
Celebrate the dark skies of Devils River State Natural Area in partnership with the Devils River Conservancy and partnering astronomical associations. The event is held at the recently established Dark Sky Viewing Area within the headquarters complex.
Boerne
The Peking Acrobats
March 24
Boerne Champion Auditorium, 201 Charger Blvd.
Boerne Performing Arts presents the Peking Acrobats, who astound and amuse in a performance that epitomizes family fun. In an all-new production, they are joined by members of the Shanghai Circus and perform daring acrobatics with grace, strength, and skill.
Llano
Earth Art Fest
March 24-26
Grenwelge Park, 199 E. Haynie St.
More than 6,000 people come out each year to the banks of the Llano River for Llano Earth Art Fest—home of the World Rock Stacking Championships. Try your hand at stacking rocks to create beautiful rock art in and along the Llano River. For kids there are activities such as face painting, a fashion circus, and rock painting. Adults can enjoy live music, a cold beer, workshops, viewing and creating art, or just relaxing in the sun.
Southlake
Celebrate Southlake
March 25
Southlake Town Square, 1400 Main St.
Connect with fellow community members or get to know Southlake if you're new to the area. Hosted by the City of Southlake, the event has cultural experiences, international cuisine, stage performances, and family activities.
Temple
Pawz on the Plaza
March 25
Santa Fe Plaza, 313 W. Avenue A
For National Puppy Day, bring your four-legged friend out for vendors, demonstrations, and pet adoptions.
Palestine
Dogwood Jamboree
March 25
Palestine High School Auditorium, 1600 Loop 256
Be entertained at this Branson-style show that features classic country music and comedy.
Lake Jackson
Nature Day and Public Youth Fishing
March 25
Sea Center Texas, 302 Medical Drive
Participate in catch-and-release fishing, pet live reptiles, and watch the Birds of Prey show at this nature day event.
Spring Branch
Pollinators and Parks
March 25
Guadalupe River State Park, 3350 Park Road 31
Celebrate 100 years of state parks in Texas with a special version of the annual Monarch and Friends Pollinator Fiesta. Join the celebration as the monarchs return from Mexico. Monarchs, along with other pollinators, are an integral part of the interactions that take place in nature and symbolize the importance of increased awareness of the smallest creatures and their relationships.
Bandera
Ranching Heritage Day
March 25
Hill Country State Natural Area, 10600 Bandera Creek Road
Celebrate ranching life by visiting with exhibitors, making crafts, playing games, and viewing demonstrations. Stop by to learn about and experience some of the many facets of ranching history and culture.
Valley View
Spring Fling: 100-Year Celebration
March 25
Ray Roberts Lake State Park, Johnson Branch Unit, 100 PW 4153
Come get back outside and celebrate all things spring with ranger-led crafts, activities, and field games.
Sugar Land
International Art and Kite Festival
March 25
Brazos River Park, 18427 Southwest Freeway
This festival honors culture and community through art, music, dancing, and food. Kite flying, art car showings, and cultural performances are just some of the highlights of this colorful festival.
Bandera
Frontier Times Fourth Sunday Jamboree
March 26, April 23, May 28
Frontier Times Museum, 510 13th St.
The Frontier Times Museum presents this jamboree on the fourth Sunday of each month. The event includes live music, storytelling, and fun for all ages.
Temple
Family Day: Muggle Mayhem
April 1
Temple Railroad and Heritage Museum, 315 W. Avenue B
Calling all witches and wizards. Take the leap into a world of spells, potions, and goblins.
Boerne
Spring Antique Tractor Pull
April 1
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.
Kerrville
Solar Eclipse Kickoff
April 1
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.
Houston
Neighborhood Community Day
April 1
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.
Palestine
Piney Woods Express Diesel
April 1-May 26
Texas State Railroad Palestine Depot, 789 Park Road 70
Unplug for a tradition that merges comfort and adventure for the whole family. Relaxed seating, thoughtful décor and responsive attendants add to the ambiance of the scenic journey afforded travelers a century ago. The trip includes food and adult beverage service and historic narration on a rail journey that whisks you back into another century.
Sulphur Springs
Festival of the Fish
April 1
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.
Gonzales
100 Years, 100 Species
April 1
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.
Somerville
Get Hooked on the Outdoors
April 1
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.
Cooper
Festival of the Fish
April 1
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.
Galveston
Steampunk Festival
April 1-2
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.
Amarillo
"Anastasia"
April 3-4
Amarillo Civic Center , 401 S. Buchanan St.
Inspired by the beloved film, the romantic and adventure-filled new musical "Anastasia" is on a journey to Amarillo at last.
Monahans
Spring Fling
April 4
Ward County Event Center, 1525 East Monahans Parkway
At the Spring Fling, the community welcomes visitors to come by and enjoy the live music and vendors.
Clute
Planetarium Show
April 4, 11, 18, 25, 28
Center for the Arts and Sciences, 400 College Blvd.
This show features a 30-foot dome equipped with a Spitz Star Ball projector that reproduces the night sky, along with a variety of other high-tech equipment to give visitors a close-up feel of comets, exploding stars, and black holes.
Amarillo
Eggtastic Friday
April 7
Don Harrington Discovery Center, 1200 Streit Drive
Join other future scientists at the Discovery Center for a day of exciting experiments and explosive activities.
activekids.com/amarillo-tx/science/camp/eggtastic-friday-2nd-4th-grade-explorers-2023
Elgin
Music in the Park
April 7-May 26
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.
Fredericksburg
Easter at the Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm
April 8
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.
Kerrville
Easterfest, Cookoff, and Open Car Show
April 8
Flat Rock Lake Park, 3840 Riverside Drive
At this fun-filled event, enjoy a barbecue and chili cookoff, food, games, rides for all ages, vendors, live music, and Easter egg hunt, an open car and bike show, and a visit from the Easter Bunny.
The Salvation Army's Easter Eggstravaganza
April 8
The Salvation Army Kroc Center, 201 Holdsworth Drive
Bring your Easter basket for a family day of fun. This community event is filled with bounce houses, face painting, a cake walk, pictures with the Easter Bunny, food vendors, games, and two Easter egg hunts with over 25,000 candy-filled Easter eggs and giveaways with prizes.
Quintana
Spring Fling
April 8-May 7
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.
Fredericksburg
Big Easter Egg Hunt in Luckenbach Texas
April 9
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.
Houston
Art Car Parade
April 10-16
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.
Mesquite
Community Band Spring Concert
April 15
Mesquite Arts Center, 1527 N. Galloway Ave.
The Mesquite Community Band is made up of volunteer musicians from high school through retirement age. The group performs its annual spring concert which includes favorite songs that are inspired by Texas.
Corpus Christi
Explore the Shore
April 15
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.
Junction
100 Years at South Llano River
April 15
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.
Glen Rose
Spring Wing Ding
April 15
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.
Bonham
100 Years State Park Celebration
April 15
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.
Tatum
Bait and Boats
April 15
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.
Pilot Point
Greenfest on the Greenbelt
April 15
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.
Sugar Land
Sensory Friendly Day
April 17
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.
Dale
Old Settler's Music Festival
April 20-23
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.
Palestine
1836 Chuckwagon Races
April 21-23
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.
Grand Prairie
Main Street Fest
April 21-23
Downtown , 200 block of West Main Street
The 10th annual Main Street Fest is a three-day event featuring live music, carnival rides, arts and crafts, food and beer, and local vendors.
San Angelo
Frontier Day
April 22
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.
Fredericksburg
Monster Truck Wars
April 22
Gillespie County Fairgrounds, 530 Fair Drive
America's wildest monster truck show promises fun and high-energy excitement, with monster trucks as seen on national TV. Ride on a real monster truck and meet the drivers.
Sherman
Texoma Earth Day Festival
April 22
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.
Mesquite
Doggy Derby Day
April 22
Opal Lawrence Historical Park, 711 E. Kearney St.
Bring the pups out for a special day of activities for pets and their people. Enjoy dog-friendly tours of the historic park.
Bully-Con Dog Show
April 22
Mesquite Convention Center and Exhibit Hall, 1700 Rodeo Drive
At this fun, family-friendly BRC Global-sanctioned dog show, see a variety of bulldog breeds strut their stuff.
Lake Jackson
Kids Reel Big Fish Event
April 22
Sea Center Texas, 302 Medical Drive
Pack your sunscreen, hat, lawn chair, and fishing gear and come out for a couple hours of catch-and-release fishing at a marine fish hatchery and visitor education center. This event is available to guests 16 years old and younger accompanied by an adult. Anglers must bring their own gear and bait with barb-less hooks.
Marfa
Airstrip Astronomy
April 22
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.
Grapeland
Folk Festival
April 22
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.
Lumberton
Village Creek Fun Day
April 22
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.
Rockport
Goose Island Extravaganza
April 28
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.
Dallas
"Charlotte's Web"
April 29-May 27
Rosewood Center, 5938 Skillman St.
Get caught in Charlotte's web to save Wilbur, the "radiant" and "humble" pig, and make friends once again with all his lovable barnyard neighbors. One of the first books ever written for children exploring issues of mortality, "Charlotte's Web" is an emotional tribute to friendship with universal themes depicting courage, compassion, and the ever-changing cycle of life.
Rockport
Fishing for Wishes Tournament
April 29
Fulton Convention Center, 402 N. Fulton Beach Road
The tournament's location is in a world-renowned area known for saltwater tournaments. Fishing categories include Heaviest Redfish, Trout, Flounder, and Stringer. Side pots consist of Most Spots on a Redfish, Blackjack Trout, and Texas Slam. Don't forget about Calcutta. There is a Kids Pier Fishing Tournament and Make-A-Wish Kids Fishing Tournament, plus a live auction, drop ticket raffle, and giveaways.
friendsforwishes.org/events/fishing-for-wishes-fishing-tournament/
Kite Festival
April 29-30
Rockport Festival Grounds , Adjacent to the Beach Park
A free family event, the Kite Festival provides the opportunity to view, make, and fly kites. An exotic array of kites are on display, along with demonstrations by professional kite pilots. There are children's arts and crafts booths, including one for making their own kites, vendors, and food trucks.
Brazoria
Migration Celebration
April 29-30
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.
Galveston
The Grand Kids Festival
April 29
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.
Plano
Family Concert: "A Night at the Ball"
April 30
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.
Clute
Planetarium Show
May 2, 9, 16, 23, 26, 30
Center for the Arts and Sciences, 400 College Blvd.
This show features a 30-foot dome equipped with a Spitz Star Ball projector that reproduces the night sky, along with a variety of other high-tech equipment to give visitors a close-up feel of comets, exploding stars, and black holes.
Ozona
Crockett County History Day
May 5
Ozona Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center, 505 15th St.
Learn more about the early days on the frontier in and around Ozona during Crockett County History Day on the Ozona Chamber of Commerce grounds. The informative event featurs camels, soldiers, pioneers, flintknapper, and livestock including donkeys from the Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue.
Lumberton
Full Moon Night Trek
May 5
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.
Elgin
Explore Elgin Arts and Culture
May 6
Downtown , 114 Central Ave.
Come for a day full of activities and fun for the whole family. Local studios open their doors to the public and downtown businesses host artist demonstrations, live music, and tours in historic downtown Elgin. An artist and makers market offers a variety of paintings, sculptures, woodworking items, jewelry, blacksmithing, fiber arts, photography, outsider art, self-care, and food.
Plano
AsiaFest
May 6
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.
Burnet
Fun For All
May 6
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.
Needville
Brazos Bend Expo
May 6
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.
Quitaque
Experience Caprock
May 6
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.
Taylor
Blackland Prairie Day
May 7
Downtown Main Street, 100 N. Main St.
Live talent, food, arts and crafts, vendors, and children's activities meet in historic downtown Taylor.
Mesquite
Preservation Month Porch Party
May 13
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.
Off the Rails Concert
May 13, 20, 27
Front Street Station, 100 W. Front St.
The Mesquite Arts Center presents this weekly family-friendly event in downtown Mesquite featuring a different musical act and a variety of genres.
Brownwood
Lake Brownwood Bash
May 13
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.
Bend
A Day in the Life of a Cedar Chopper
May 13
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.
Fairfield
Centennial Kid Fish Derby
May 13
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.
Daingerfield
New Experiences, New Membories, A New You
May 13
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.
Jefferson
Train Days
May 15-16
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.
Grand Prairie
Asian Heritage Fest
May 19-21
Asia Times Square, 2625 W. Pioneer Parkway
The month of May is recognized as Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month and Asia Times Square is celebrating with a weekend festival.
Denison
Lure'ing You In
May 20
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.
Amarillo
Muttfest
May 21
Starlight Ranch Event Center, 1415 Sunrise Drive
Voted one of the city's top three festivals, Muttfest is the longest-running fundraiser for the Amarillo SPCA. Festivities include a reduced-cost shot clinic, music, food, vendors, and a silent auction.
Kerrville
Kerrville Folk Festival
May 25-June 11
Quiet Valley Ranch, 3876 Medina Highway
This annual festival features 18 days and nights of music from songwriters of national and international acclaim. One of the longest continuously running music festivals in the U.S., the festival has activities for all ages with a focus on nurturing and developing artistic expression, especially the art of songwriting, in a loving family-friendly environment.
Fredericksburg
Crawfish Festival
May 26-28
Marktplatz, 100 block of West Main Street
At this festival on Memorial Day Weekend, indulge with great Cajun food, live music, shopping, and a kids' carnival. This event is sponsored by the Fredericksburg Jaycees.
Palestine
Piney Woods Express Steam
May 26-29
Texas State Railroad Palestine Depot, 789 Park Road 70
This four-hour round-trip train adventure departing from Palestine, with an hour layover at the Rusk depot, takes passengers on a journey through the impressive Piney Woods and 135 years of history. Unplug for a tradition that merges comfort and adventure for the whole family. Relaxed seating, thoughtful décor and friendly, responsive attendants add to the ambiance of the scenic journey afforded travelers a century ago.
Bandera
Memorial Day Weekend Stampede Rodeo and Parade
May 26-28
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.
Quanah
Copper Breaks Day
May 27
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.
Grand Prairie
Tejano Fest
May 28
Traders Village, 2602 Mayfield Road
Enjoy live music featuring Tejano artists from around the state, all-ages entertainment, food, and carnival rides.
Amarillo
Starlight Theater Free Summer Concert Series
May 30-Aug. 1
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.
Bastrop
"Willy Wonka the Musical"
Sept. 22-24, 29-30; Oct 1, 6-8
Bastrop Opera House, 711 Spring St.
Roald Dahl’s "Willy Wonka" follows the enigmatic candy manufacture as he stages a contest by hiding golden tickets in five of his scrumptious candy bars. Whomever comes up with these tickets wins a free tour of the Wonka factory, as well as a lifetime supply of candy.