A note regarding COVID-19
Neches
1836 Chuckwagon Races
April 19-21
Diamond B Ranch, 11589 FM 321
The 1836 Chuckwagon Races take place during the celebration of Texas’ independence every year at the Diamond B Ranch in Neches. There are multiple divisions of wagon races as well as trail rides, Dutch oven cooking classes, herd dog demonstrations, hoof care clinics, a horse auction, barn dances, karaoke, and live music. The gates are open for camping the Monday prior to the races on a first-come, first-served basis.
Galveston
The Grand Kids Festival
April 20
Postoffice Street between 23rd and 20th streets
Designed to introduce children and families to the arts, the festival offers three blocks of activities, entertainment areas, and vendor booths. Attendees are able to enjoy live performances, storytellers, arts and crafts, face painting, and other festivities themed around the arts.
Aransas Pass
Fishing for Wishes Tournament
April 20
Aransas Pass Convention Center, 700 W. Wheeler Ave.
Support Friends for Wishes, the largest contributor to the Make-A-Wish Foundation in the Texas Gulf Coast and Louisiana, at this fishing tournament where anglers can compete in categories that include redfish, trout, most spots on a redfish, blackjack trout, and Texas Slam. There are also kids’ pier fishing and Make-A-Wish kids fishing tournaments, plus a live auction, drop ticket raffle, and giveaways.
Lake Jackson
Bird Banding
April 20
Gulf Coast Bird Observatory, 299 SH 332 West
Once a month, visitors can 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 about the birds of the Brazosport area.
Kids Reel Big Fish Event
April 20
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 the 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 barbless hooks. No artificial bait or treble hooks. Volunteers and staff are on hand to assist first-time anglers.
Mesquite
Doggy Derby Day
April 20
Opal Lawrence Historical Park, 711 E. Kearney St.
Bring your pups to the park for a day of fun and frolicking. The day includes vendors, dog-obedience and other training demonstrations, and the opportunity to adopt a pooch.
Family Fish
April 20
City Lake Park, 200 Parkview St.
Family Fish is a great opportunity to enjoy the outdoors with the people you love. Come with family and friends and arrive early to receive a free fishing rod while supplies last. Participate in the smallest or largest fish tournament for a chance to win a prize.
San Antonio
Texas Cavaliers River Parade
April 22
San Antonio River, 909 NE Loop 410, Suite 903
The San Antonio River comes alive with music, festivities, and vibrant floats for the 79th annual Texas Cavaliers River Parade. This one-of-a-kind parade started in 1941 after a group of Texas Cavaliers witnessed boats and barges decorated with flowers in the “floating gardens” of Mexico City. Today, the parade attracts more than 250,000 spectators, and all the proceeds go to local children’s charities.
Grand Prairie
Main Street Fest
April 26-28
Downtown , 200 block of West Main Street
The 11th annual Main Street Fest offers carnival rides, a kids’ zone, two stages with live music, arts and crafts vendors and activity area, food and beverage vendors, and a business expo.
Brazoria
Migration Celebration
April 27-28
San Bernard National Wildlife Refuge, 2547 County Road 306
At this event, qualified naturalists take visitors on tours of San Bernard National Wildlife Refuge by marsh buggy or wagon. Children can participate in activities ranging from archery and fishing for catfish to bug sweeping and touch tanks. Adults and children can both enjoy the “Birds of Prey” show by EarthQuest as well as butterfly encounter tents. Guided walking tours to Bobcat Woods and to the largest Texas live oak are also available.
Corpus Christi
Buc Days Festival
May 2-12
American Bank Center, 1901 N. Shoreline Blvd.
Commencing with the mayor of Corpus Christi walking the plank, this pirate-themed festival has a variety of family-friendly activities like the Stripes Carnival, an indoor shopping event coined Treasure Island, multiple parades, Barbecue on the Bay Competition, and the Robotics Rodeo. Families can also attend the Professional Bull Riding Velocity Tour Finals and watch some of the world’s best bull riders compete for the championship title.
Temple
Family Day: Train Day
May 4
Temple Railroad and Heritage Museum, 315 W. Avenue B
Explore the exciting world of trains and the history of the Transcontinental Railroad.
Mesquite
Cinco de Mayo Celebration
May 4
Front Street Station , 100 W. Front St.
The city of Mesquite and Hispanic Forum of Mesquite celebrate Cinco de Mayo with festivities that begin at noon and include authentic Mexican food, performances by folklórico dancers, live music from mariachi bands and local singers, a kids’ activity area with free arts and crafts and piñata breaks, and a jalapeño-eating contest.
Plano
AsiaFest 2024
May 4
Haggard Park, 901 E. 15th St.
Celebrating Asian American Heritage Foundation, a all-volunteer nonprofit organization, announces AsiaFest, the 20th annual Plano Asian American Heritage Festival. Enjoy family-friendly signature cultural performances from all parts of Asia. Learn about Asian artistic traditions like cooking, visual art, calligraphy, martial arts, origami, and fashion. The festival features a wide variety of food vendors from area restaurants and food trucks.
Stonewall
Williams Creek (Albert) School Open House
May 4
Williams Creek (Albert) School, 5501 S. RR 1623
The Friends of Gillespie County Country Schools invites visitors to attend this open house at the historic Williams Creek (Albert) School. Learn about the limestone building, constructed in 1897, and the community’s German history. Visitors can also explore the grounds that offer birdwatching and geocaching.
Grand Prairie
Cinco de Mayo
May 5
Traders Village, 2602 Mayfield Road
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo at Traders Village with live music, dancing, traditional food, and fun festivities for the whole family.
Conroe
Big As Texas Festival
May 10-12
Montgomery County Fairgrounds, 9333 Airport Road
With aspirations as large as the Lone Star State, this new outdoor celebration features a world-class music lineup, Texas vendors and artisans, custom exhibitions, immersive art installations, live-fire grilling, carnival games, and fun for all ages. The lineup of performers includes Thomas Rhett, Dierks Bentley, Dwight Yoakam, Midland, Morgan Wade, and Breland.
El Campo
Lost Lagoon Anniversary and Mother’s Day Celebration
May 10-12
El Campo Lost Lagoon, 665 County Road 451
Lost Lagoon RV Resort celebrates its anniversary and Mother’s Day with the lively tunes of Rewind Texas, pickleball and cornhole tournaments, and a vendor fair—creating a perfect blend of music, games, and festivities to mark this special occasion and honor moms.
Giddings
Lee County Fair and Charcoal Challenge Barbecue
May 16-18
Lee County Fairgrounds on Hwy 290, 2495 SH 290 West
On the third weekend in May, the Lee County Fair takes center state in Giddings. Activities include live music, shopping, local art and food contests, and a carnival with an antique carousel open for the kids. Friday is Senior Citizens Day and Saturday includes an Armed Forces Day ceremony and parade. At the Charcoal Challenge Barbecue Cookoff, teams from all over Central Texas compete in a variety of foods, drinks, and barbecue.
Lake Jackson
Bird Banding
May 18
Gulf Coast Bird Observatory, 299 SH 332 West
Once a month, visitors can 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 about the birds of the Brazosport area.
Kerrville
Folk Festival
May 23-June 9
Quiet Valley Ranch, 3876 Medina Highway
This annual festival features several days and nights of music from songwriters of national and international acclaim. Founded in 1972, the festival offers activities for all ages with a focus on nurturing and developing artistic expression, especially the art of songwriting, in a loving family-friendly environment.
Bandera
Memorial Day Weekend Stampede Rodeo and Parade
May 24-26
Mansfield Park and Main Street, 2886 SH 16 North
Bandera Pro Rodeo presents three nights of Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association-sanctioned rodeos with bull riding, team roping, bareback riding, and other competitions. The annual Memorial Day Parade down Main Street gets underway Saturday at 11 a.m.
Fredericksburg
Crawfish Festival
May 24-26
Marktplatz, 100 W. Main St.
At this festival on Memorial Day Weekend, indulge on great Cajun food, live music, shopping, and a kids’ carnival. This event is sponsored by the Fredericksburg Jaycees.
Fulton
Fishing Expo
May 26-28
Fulton Convention Center, 402 N. Fulton Beach Road
At this annual expo, visitors can find some of the finest tackle used by industry pros and recreational anglers, along with guides, apparel, art, and other merchandise for all their fishing needs. The family-oriented event, which has indoor and outdoor vendor booths, includes the annual Texas Rattler Kids Fishing Tourney and goodie bags for children.
Amarillo
Summer Concert Series
May 28; June 4, 11, 18, 25; July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30; Aug. 6
Sam Houston Park, 4101 Line Ave.
Starlight Theater presents free music, local food trucks, vendors, and family-friendly fun on Tuesday evenings at Sam Houston Park from the end of May to the beginning of August.
Yoakum
Tom Tom Festival
May 31-June 2
Yoakum City Park, 105 Kvinta Drive
Kick off your summer in Yoakum style. The 96th annual festival honors the city’s tomato growing heritage with fun activities that include a pageant; parade; carnival; rodeo; barbecue cookoff; car show; 5K run; arts and craft booths; food trucks; a biergarten; cornhole, softball, and domino tournaments; daytime music; and two live performances by headlining country artists with dances to follow at the city park pavilion.
Jacksonville
Tomato Festival
May 31-June 8
Various locations
For several days, Jacksonville becomes “Tomatoville.” The festival, marking its 40th anniversary this year, features tomato-eating, salsa, and bloody mary contests; fishing and dodgeball tournaments; a street dance, and many other tomato-centric events.
The Colony
Summer Kickoff
June 1
Lions Club Park, 4800 Nash Drive
Ring in the summer months with games, crafts, activities, treats, and summer reading sign-ups. Visit with library staff, parks and recreation staff, police, firefighters, and animal service members. The family-friendly event is free.
visitthecolonytx.com/calendar.aspx?EID=3636&month=6&year=2024&day=16&caltype=0
Grapevine
Dairy Day
June 1
Nash Farm, 626 Ball St.
Bring the family and enjoy learning about dairy processes including milking and butter and cheese making. Feel free to roam and explore the farm while you’re there.
Hearne
Crossroads Home Town Festival
June 1
Downtown Hearne
Spend some time outside at this outdoor festival with blues music, food, and craft vendors.
Midlothian
Mid-Way Airport Fly-In and Drive-In Pancake Breakfast
June 1
Mid-Way Regional Airport, 131 Airport Drive
See free exhibits of classic airplanes and cars and enjoy the pancake breakfast, with proceeds benefitting Scout Troop 524. Kids’ activities include a trackless train, bounce house, face painting, and balloon twister. Also available for a fee are helicopter and commemorative airplane rides.
Temple
Family Day: Beat the Heat and Travel the World
June 1
Temple Railroad and Heritage Museum, 315 W. Avenue B
Enjoy fun summer activities indoors. Learn about some of the most scenic places around the world and join in for Beat the Heat Family Day. There are crafts, activities, and most importantly, there’s air conditioning.
Fredericksburg
Car Fest
June 1
Marktplatz , 114 W. Main St.
Sponsored by the Fredericksburg Rotary Club, Car Fest is a Hill Country tradition now in its 19th year. The event offers food trucks and vendors and attracts car enthusiasts, families, and weekend shoppers to downtown Fredericksburg and the historic Marktplatz on Main Street.
Bandera
Cowboys On Main
June 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
Enjoy free cowboy fun in downtown Bandera. Activities can include chuckwagon storytelling, taking a horse-drawn wagon tour of Bandera, and listening to live Western music.
Waxahachie
Pancake Breakfast Fly-In
June 1
Mid-Way Regional Airport, 131 Airport Drive
Spend the day taking in classic airplanes and fighters, fly-overs, helicopter rides, Midlothian Classic Wheels Car Club, live music, and children’s activities.
Palestine
Saturday on Main Street
June 1, July 6, Aug. 3
Various locations
This family-friendly event is held on the first Saturday of each month and features fun things to see and do in the 44 blocks of the Main Street District in downtown Palestine. Visit new businesses that have opened, enjoy the exquisite model train display at the Railroad Heritage Center, and spend some time browsing crafts, antique, and vintage shops.
Lake Jackson
Abner Jackson Plantation Site Tour
June 1, July 6, Aug. 3
Abner Jackson Plantation Site, Farm-to-Market Road 2004 near State Highway 332
Visit the historic archeological site formerly owned by Maj. Abner Jackson, the namesake of the city of Lake Jackson. Once a prosperous sugar plantation, the site was destroyed by the hurricane that devastated Galveston in 1900. Learn about the sugar-making process of the 1840s and how convict labor replaced slave labor during the 1870s.
Youth Fishing Event
June 1
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 Sea Center Texas’ marine fish hatchery and visitor education center.
San Elizario
Billy the Kid Festival
June 1-2
San Elizario Historic Art District, 1501 Main St.
Visit historic sites, art galleries, museums, vendors, and saloons, and maybe catch an Old West gunfight or performance of the play “1876: Billy the Kid.” The event also has live music and food and drinks
Seguin
Central Park Summer Concert Series
June 2-30
Central Park, 201 S. Austin St.
The concert series offers something for every musical taste, including a final patriotic concert that salutes veterans and active military members. The family-friendly concerts are held every Sunday this month in Central Park in historic downtown Seguin.
Amarillo
Starlight Theater Summer Concert Series
June 4-Aug. 6
Sam Houston Park, 4101 Line Ave.
The Starlight Theater Free Summer Concert Series offers free music, local food trucks, vendors, and family-friendly fun on Tuesday evenings at Sam Houston Park until the end of August.
Clute
Planetarium Show
June 4, 8, 11, 15, 18, 22, 25, 28-29
Center for the Arts and Sciences, 400 College Blvd.
Featuring high-tech equipment including a 30-foot dome equipped with a Spitz Star Ball projector, this planetarium show recreates the night sky as it appears to the naked eye and gives viewers a close-up look at comets, exploding stars, and black holes. Showdates vary throughout each month.
Amarillo
Texas Route 66 Festival
June 6-15
Various locations
Route 66, the road that helped shape America, turns 100 years old in 2026. Starting in 2023, the annual Texas Route 66 Festival kicked off years of celebrations leading up to the historic route’s centennial. This festival features 10 days packed with events along the Texas route including classic car shows, bus tours, cattle drives, parades, music festivals, and a grand finale festival in Amarillo’s Route 66 Historic District.
Coors Cowboy Club Ranch Rodeo and Cattle Drive
June 6-8
Amarillo National Center and Downtown, 401 S. Buchanan St. and 1000 S Polk St.
Coors Cowboy Club hosts this rodeo that features cowboys from area ranches participating in a friendly but serious competition. Events include saddle bronc, stray gathering, trailer loading, and wild cow milking. The cattle drive consists of 60 Longhorns, motorized groups, and riders that parade from downtown Amarillo to the Tri-state Fairgrounds.
Baytown
Pirate Party Nights
June 6-Aug. 29
Pirates Bay Waterpark, 5300 East Road
Every Thursday night throughout the summer, Pirates Bay Waterpark hosts these after-hours parties that include dive-in movies and other waterpark fun.
Elgin
Juneteenth Festival and Parade
June 7-8
Veterans Memorial Park, 109 Depot St.
Head to Elgin’s Veterans Park and enjoy a Juneteenth parade and festival featuring music, vendors selling locally made goods, food, and lots of fun for the whole family.
Gonzales
“Swan Lake”
June 8-9
The Crystal Theatre, 543 St. Lawrence St.
Dive into the enchanting world of “Swan Lake” as Come and Take It Dance presents this youth performance at the historic Crystal Theatre. Witness the grace and beauty of this timeless ballet.
Boerne
Kuhlmann-King Museum Tour
June 8, 22; July 13, 27; Aug. 10, 24
Kuhlmann-King Historical Complex, 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 program themes vary.
Galveston
World Ocean Day Festival
June 8
East Beach, 1923 Boddeker Road
The Artist Boat’s World Ocean Day Festival brings the international celebration of the ocean to Galveston. With interactive exhibits, the Beautify the Bucket art contest, live music, and art workshops, the festival is fun and educational for ocean lovers of all ages.
Nacogdoches
Texas Blueberry Festival
June 8
Downtown, 200 E. Main St.
One of the most delicious festivals in the Lone Star State, the Texas Blueberry Festival marks its 34th 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 on the second Saturday in June. Stay for the week or weekend and fill your calendar with a smorgasbord of activities such as live music, blueberry picking, auto exhibits, shopping, and restaurant specials.
College Station
41@100: A Celebration of George H.W. Bush
June 13
George H.W. Bush Presidential Library & Museum, Texas A&M University campus, 1000 George Bush Drive West
The George & Barbara Bush Foundation invites visitors to join the Bush family in their celebration honoring the life and legacy of President George H.W. Bush on what would’ve been his 100th birthday. The community celebration includes the grand opening of the Marine One/4141 Locomotive Pavilion, a birthday cake and ice cream reception with special appearance by Sully the Service Dog; and a moderated conversation with President Bush’s grandchildren.
Lockhart
Chisholm Trail Roundup
June 13-15
Lockhart City Park, 504 City Park Road
The Chisholm Trail Roundup is Lockhart’s largest annual festival and tourism event. Now celebrating its 51st year, the event has a range of family activities including a petting zoo, pig races, a carnival, rodeo, barbecue cookoff, the Grand Parade in historic downtown, and live entertainment.
Aransas Pass
Shrimporee
June 14-16
Shrimporee Festival Grounds, 200 E. Johnson Ave.
The annual Shrimporee festival has celebrated the rich heritage of this coastal community for 76 years. The festival pays homage to a time when Aransas Pass was known as the Shrimp Capital of the World. The weekend includes live music on two stages, craft vendors, a live cooking stage serving up shrimp, a carnival, and kids’ zone and several family-friendly activities.
Rockport-fulton
Market Days
June 14-16
Rockport Harbor, 100 Sea Breeze Drive
Live music plays throughout the weekend while you peruse over 100 vendors and more than a dozen food trucks and food merchants. There’s seating in the shade for 48 people and you can bring your pets. Come join the fun at the Festival Grounds at Rockport Harbor.
Amarillo
Texas Route 66 Festival Finale
June 15
Amarillo Route 66 Historic District
Experience the grand finale of the 10-day Texas Route 66 Festival. Enjoy live music, a car show, a pin-up pageant, vendors, kids’ activities, and other festivities. Immerse yourself in iconic Route 66 vibes and celebrate the rich history and culture of this legendary highway.
Boerne
Bull Riding Blowout
June 15
Kendall County Fairgrounds, 1307 River Road
Prepare for edge-of-your-seat excitement at the sixth annual Kendall County Fair Association Bull Riding Blowout. Watch man go up against bull and mutton bustin’ for the kiddos.
Baytown
Market at Town Square
June 15, July 20, Aug. 17
Town Square, 213 W. Texas Ave.
Every third Saturday of the month, stroll through the outdoor market with your friends, family, or even your furry loved ones while discovering over 70 local vendors with unique, handmade and handcrafted merchandise.
Lake Jackson
Bird Banding
June 15, July 20, Aug. 17
Gulf Coast Bird Observatory, 299 SH 332 West
Once a month, visitors can 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 about the birds of the Brazosport area.
Grapevine
Father’s Day Special Excursion
June 16
Grapevine Vintage Railroad, 705 S. Main St.
Celebrate Father’s Day on board the Grapevine Vintage Railroad and create wonderful memories with Dad. Climb aboard and be swept back in time inside authentic 1920s coaches with modern amenities such as air conditioning.
Mesquite
Mesquite Rocks
June 20
Mesquite Arts Front Yard, 1527 N. Galloway Ave.
Bring the family to this kid-friendly event that features tribute bands covering the greatest hits of popular and folk music.
Bandera
Frontier Times Fourth Sunday Jamboree
June 23
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.
Plano
Plano Community Band Summer Concert
June 24
Haggard Park, 901 E. 15th St.
Enjoy a picnic under the lush shade trees with wonderful music to serenade you. Bring your own blanket or folding chairs. Leashed dogs are welcomed.
visitplano.com/event/summer-concerts-in-the-park-2024/2024-06-24
Amarillo
“Sesame Street Live! Say Hello Tour”
June 26
Amarillo Civic Center, 401 S. Buchanan
Elmo, Abby Cadabby, Cookie Monster, and their friends from Sesame Street come to the neighborhood to say hello. In “Sesame Street Live! Say Hello,” you can sing and dance with your favorite furry friends while enjoying fun surprises along the way.
Grand Prairie
“Finding Nemo Jr.”
June 26-27
Uptown Theater, 120 E. Main St.
Students in Grand Prairie Arts Council’s Summer in the Arts program perform this musical based on the family-favorite movie, with a shorter runtime for young audiences.
Luling
Watermelon Thump
June 27-30
Watermelon Thump Pavilion, 319 E. Davis St.
For 71 years, Luling has honored hard-working local watermelon farmers with a festival celebrating all things watermelon. Enjoy four days of live music, food booths, pageants, the World Championship Seed Spitting Contest, a carnival, parade, car show, and market.
Kilgore
Texas Shakespeare Festival
June 27-July 28
TSF Performance Venue, 1200 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 are “Much Ado About Nothing,” “Peter and the Starcatcher,” “Julius Caesar,” “Sweeney Todd,” and the children’s play “Tinker Bell.”
Del Rio
Independence Day Rodeo
June 28-29
Val Verde Fairgrounds , 2006 N. Main St.
Take the family out for a rodeo night, presented by the Rotary Club of Del Rio, complete with bull riding, barrel racing, and mutton bustin’ among other traditional rodeo events.
Baytown
Historic Building Tours
June 29
Republic of Texas Plaza, 5117 N. Main St.
On the last Saturday of the month, the historic 1894 one-room Wooster School and 1910 Brown-McKay Farmhouse, located at The Republic of Texas Plaza, are open to the public for tours. Learn about the past at the city’s living history museum.
Boerne
Boerne Concert Band in Concert
June 30
Main Plaza, 100 N. Main St.
The Boerne Concert Band plays a wide range of music that people of all ages can enjoy. This month, the group of volunteer musicians performs a concert in the park in honor of Independence Day.
Clute
Planetarium Show
July 2, 6, 9, 13, 16, 20, 23, 26-27, 30
Center for the Arts and Sciences, 400 College Blvd.
Featuring high-tech equipment including a 30-foot dome equipped with a Spitz Star Ball projector, this planetarium show recreates the night sky as it appears to the naked eye and gives viewers a close-up look at comets, exploding stars, and black holes. Showdates vary throughout each month.
Southlake
Stars and Stripes
July 3
Southlake Town Square, 1400 Main St.
Stars and Stripes is held annually on July 3 in the heart of Southlake’s Town Square. This event ignites the spirit of patriotism and community with an array of delectable festival foods, engaging activities for all ages, and, of course, a display of fireworks that lights up the night sky.
Waxahachie
Crape Myrtle Festival and Parade
July 3-4
Waxahachie Sports Complex; Historic Downtown , 151 Broadhead Road; 100 W. Main St.
Designated the Crape Myrtle Capital of Texas, Waxahachie hosts this 26th annual celebration which features 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.
Seguin
Fireworks Fiesta
July 3
Central Park, 201 S. Austin St.
The night sky lights up with a fireworks display. The best views are from Starcke Park and the surrounding area. This should be the biggest show Seguin has ever seen, so you don’t want to miss it.
Rockport
July Fourth Patriotic Boat Parade and Fireworks
July 4
Little Bay at Rockport Beach
Get in a patriotic mood watching the boat parade that gets underway at noon—the best views are from Broadway adjacent to Little Bay or directly across from the north end of Rockport Beach. The Wendell Family Fireworks Show is held at dark later in the evening.
Bandera
Pet Parade
July 4
Bandera City Park, 173 Main St.
Cowboy Capital Pet Assistance League, Inc. presents its 28th annual Pet Parade. Dress up your pets and join other participants in the parade. Categories for the judging contest include Best Creative Costume and Best in Show.
Amarillo
Will Rogers Range Riders Rodeo
July 4-6
Will Rogers Range Riders Arena, 8829 FM 1541
Will Rogers Range Riders, founded in the late 1930s, is the oldest continually operating riding club in the country. The organization hosts a variety of events including ropings, mounted shootings, and trail rides. The largest event is the annual rodeo held over the Fourth of July weekend that features live music, mutton busting, and a United Professional Rodeo Association-sanctioned rodeo.
The Woodlands
Red, Hot, and Blue Festival
July 4
Various locations
Enjoy a variety of activities at Town Green Park, Northshore Park, Rob Fleming Park, Hughes Landing, and Waterway Square. All sites feature live music in the evening with bands playing until the Fireworks Extravaganza. Some locations offer concessions and kids’ activities like face painting and balloon art.
Boerne
Independence Day Fireworks
July 4
Boerne City Park, 106 City Park Road
The annual Boerne Independence Day fireworks show begins at 9:15 p.m. and is scheduled to last 20-25 minutes. Prime viewing is available at the Kendall County Fairgrounds and Champion High School.
Galveston
Fourth of July Celebration
July 4
Galveston Seawall
Celebrate the long weekend with a parade along the seawall and traditional fireworks over the Gulf.
Kerrville
Fourth on the River
July 4
Louise Hays Park, 202 Thompson Drive
Head to Kerrville for the city’s annual Fourth of July celebration consisting of a concert, vendors, and the largest fireworks display in the Texas Hill Country.
Jefferson
Jefferson Salutes America
July 4
Various locations
Come to Jefferson to partake in an old-fashioned celebration of the country’s birthday. Activities at Ostott Park include a kids’ parade, a homemade ice cream contest, a cake and pie auction, games, and live music. At night, the grand finale fireworks show goes off over the Big Cypress Bayou by the LED-lighted historical bridge.
Plano
All-American Fourth
July 4
Oak Point Park and Special Events Field, 2801 E. Spring Creek Parkway
Celebrate Independence Day at this family-friendly event. Come enjoy the kids’ zone and a fireworks show. Vendors have food and beverages available for purchase. Blankets, lawn chairs, and coolers are welcome, but please leave all pets at home.
Seguin
Biggest Small Town Fourth of July Parade
July 4
Central Park, 201 S. Austin St.
Crowds of flag-waving people line Austin Street for the annual parade. The floats roll past the crowd, estimated to exceed 10,000. There are more than 100 parade entries including floats from local businesses, elected officials, churches, schools, military representatives, and other participants.
Corsicana
Freedom Fest
July 4
IOOF Park, 3440 W. Second Ave.
Head to Independent Order of Odd Fellows (IOOF) Park for a star-spangled celebration and a day filled with family fun, kids’ games, mouthwatering dishes at food trucks, live music, and an awe-inspiring fireworks show at night.
Granbury
Hometown Fourth of July: 50 Golden Years
July 4-7
Downtown, Historic Granbury Square
Granbury Chamber presents the city’s 50th annual Fourth of July celebration. For four days, the historic square of Granbury comes alive with vendors offering souvenirs, handmade crafts, food, and other goods. The highlight of the festivities is the Fourth of July parade, a tradition that kicks off the event with colorful floats, marching bands, and community organizations. The sun sets on the evening with a fireworks display that lights up the night sky over Lake Granbury.
Kerrville
Open Pro Rodeo
July 5-6
Kerr County Hill Country Youth Event Center, 3785 SH 27
Lester Meier Rodeo Company presents a full rodeo with exciting events including bareback and saddle bronc riding, calf roping, team roping, ladies barrel racing, bull riding, calf scramble, and mutton busting for the kids.
Temple
Family Day: National Parks
July 6
Temple Railroad and Heritage Museum, 315 W. Avenue B
Our national parks are some of the most beautiful places in the country. From Yellowstone to the Petrified Forest, America’s national parks protect over 85 million acres. Join along for a fun day of crafts and activities and learn about the amazing national parks right here in Texas.
Bandera
Cowboys On Main
July 6, 13, 20, 27
Enjoy free cowboy fun in downtown Bandera. Activities can include chuckwagon storytelling, taking a horse-drawn wagon tour of Bandera, and listening to live Western music.
Boerne
Black Rifle Block Party
July 6
Black Rifle Coffee Company, E. San Antonio Ave.
Black Rifle Coffee Company and its neighbors host this old-fashioned block party. Enjoy live music, food and drink, and a car show.
Lake Jackson
Abner Jackson Plantation Site Tour
June 1, July 6, Aug. 3
Abner Jackson Plantation Site, Farm-to-Market Road 2004 near State Highway 332
Visit the historic archeological site formerly owned by Maj. Abner Jackson, the namesake of the city of Lake Jackson. Once a prosperous sugar plantation, the site was destroyed by the hurricane that devastated Galveston in 1900. Learn about the sugar-making process of the 1840s and how convict labor replaced slave labor during the 1870s.
Ingram
“Charlotte’s Web”
July 11, 13, 19, 21, 26
Hill Country Arts Foundation, 120 Point Theatre Road
The classic children’s story about friendship, courage, and self-sacrifice comes to life on the outdoor stage at the Hill Country Arts Foundation. The play runs on different nights from the other children’s production, “The Velveteen Rabbit.”
“The Velveteen Rabbit”
July 12, 18, 20, 25, 27
Hill Country Arts Foundation, 120 Point Theatre Road
Hill Country Arts Foundation presents the story of a stuffed rabbit who is given to a child at Christmas and told that if he is loved enough, he’ll become real. When the child falls ill, the toy is to be thrown away but is given a new life and a new view of reality. The play runs on different nights from the other children’s production, “Charlotte’s Web.”
Clute
“Chitty Chitty Bang Bang”
July 12-14, 19-21
Center for the Arts and Sciences, 400 College Blvd.
This stage production takes you on a fantastic musical adventure with an out-of-this-world car that flies through the air and sails the seas. The show was adapted for the stage by Jeremy Sams and is based on the children’s motion picture starring Dick Van Dyke.
Weatherford
Parker County Peach Festival
July 13
Downtown, 1 Courthouse Square
The 39th annual Parker County Peach Festival, held in historic downtown Weatherford, invites visitors to indulge in peachy treats including homemade peach ice cream, peach cobbler, peach pie, peach tea, peach smoothies, ice cream topped with fresh peaches, or just plain ol’ juicy peaches. There’s nonstop entertainment and activities for the entire family with a food competition, vendors and store specials, and two stages featuring local talent. Around 2,200 cyclists participate in the Peach Pedal Bike Ride as well.
Grapevine
1920s Era Ice Cream Social
July 13
Grapevine’s Historic Nash Farm, 626 Ball St.
Join in for a relaxing social evening of ice cream and Victorian lawn games. The Grapevine Cornet Band accompanies the evening with old-time music. Lawn chairs, quilts, and picnics are welcome.
grapevinetexasusa.com/event/ice-cream-social-at-nash-farm/38710
Mesquite
Texas Haunters Convention
July 13-14
Mesquite Convention Center, 1700 Rodeo Drive
Taking over more than 55,000 square feet of space, this convention aimed at Halloween and cosplay enthusiasts offers a large variety of family-friendly vendors, demonstrations, and classes.
Rockport-fulton
Market Days
July 19-21
Rockport Harbor, 100 Sea Breeze Drive
Live music plays throughout the weekend while you peruse over 100 vendors and more than a dozen food trucks and food merchants. There’s seating in the shade for 48 people and you can bring your pets. Come join the fun at the Festival Grounds at Rockport Harbor.
New Braunfels
Puppy Pals
July 20
The Brauntex Performing Arts Theatre , 290 W. San Antonio St.
Puppy Pals is not your ordinary dog act. In fact, their unique and creative style earned them a top quarterfinal spot in “America’s Got Talent.” These canines are full of surprises and laugh-out-loud comedy, all while performing spectacular tricks.
Clute
Great Texas Mosquito Festival
July 25-27
Clute Municipal Park, 100 Parkview Drive
At this fun-filled family event, celebrating its 43rd year, festivalgoers can expect vendor booths with a variety of foods, arts and crafts, and other merchandise; a carnival; live entertainment each evening; and Willie-Man-Chew, the 26-foot-tall mosquito mascot that greets visitors.
Naples
Watermelon Festival and Rodeo
July 26-28
Naples Melon Patch and Rodeo Grounds, Front and Floyd streets
One of the biggest events in the area, the 86th annual Watermelon Festival and Rodeo, held every year on the last full weekend of July, features sweet East Texas melons, a parade, arts and craft booths, largest watermelon contest, a rodeo with PRCA-sanctioned and local events, an antique car show, and other festivities.
Edinburg
FridaFest
July 27
Promenade Park Amphitheater and Water Gardens, 202 N. 10th Ave.
This festival that honors renowned Mexican artist Frida Kahlo as well as the spirit of perseverance and empowerment. FridaFest features live art demonstrations and performances, Frida’s zoo and animal exhibit, and a number of children’s activities. The festival also includes the Frida Look-A-Like Contest which takes place in the Edinburg Municipal Auditorium. The evening is capped off by a concert that will have the whole family dancing.
Rockport
Rockin’ Rockport Regatta
July 27-28
Rockport Yacht Club, 722 Navigation Circle
The Rockport Yacht Club hosts this annual Texas Sailing Association-sanctioned youth sailing event, where participants must be under 20 to compete. Potentially 90 boats may be entered in this event that brings families to the Rockport area for a summer weekend.
Galveston
Esports Summit
July 27-28
Galveston Island Convention Center, 5600 Seawall Blvd.
Enjoy an opportunity to look, learn, and participate in this fast-growing entertainment industry. Daily panels focus on the influence esports has on STEM education, mental and physical health, and diversity in gaming. There are also appearances by voiceover and game celebrities and game developers, demonstrations, gaming areas, and tournaments for all ages.
Baytown
Historic Building Tours
July 27
Republic of Texas Plaza, 5117 N. Main St.
On the last Saturday of the month, the historic 1894 one-room Wooster School and 1910 Brown-McKay Farmhouse, located at The Republic of Texas Plaza, are open to the public for tours. Learn about the past at the city’s living history museum.
Bastrop
Homecoming and Rodeo
July 30-Aug. 3
Mayfest Park, 25 American Legion Drive
Homecoming week brings rodeos, dances, class reunions, a grand parade, food, and a carnival.
Tomball
Tomball Night
Aug. 2
Market Street, 100 Market St.
A family-friendly festival ends with a lighted parade and fireworks. Previous festivities have included live entertainment, kids’ activities, food, drinks, shopping, giveaways, vendors, and door prizes.
Kerrville
“Shrek The Musical Jr.”
Aug. 2-4
Cailloux Theater, 910 Main St
P2K Youth Theater presents this musical. It’s a “big, bright beautiful world” as everyone’s favorite ogre, Shrek, leads a cast of fairytale misfits on an adventure to rescue a princess and find true acceptance.
Temple
Family Day: Dig it!
Aug. 3
Temple Railroad and Heritage Museum, 315 W. Avenue B
What is a mummy? Did you know that mummies don’t just come from Egypt? Join in for an archeological adventure through some of the fascinating things found in burial chambers and temples.
Bandera
Cowboys On Main
Aug. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
Enjoy free cowboy fun in downtown Bandera. Activities can include chuckwagon storytelling, taking a horse-drawn wagon tour of Bandera, and listening to live Western music.
Lake Jackson
Abner Jackson Plantation Site Tour
June 1, July 6, Aug. 3
Abner Jackson Plantation Site, Farm-to-Market Road 2004 near State Highway 332
Visit the historic archeological site formerly owned by Maj. Abner Jackson, the namesake of the city of Lake Jackson. Once a prosperous sugar plantation, the site was destroyed by the hurricane that devastated Galveston in 1900. Learn about the sugar-making process of the 1840s and how convict labor replaced slave labor during the 1870s.
Clute
Planetarium Show
Aug. 3, 6, 10, 13, 17, 20, 23-24, 27, 31
Center for the Arts and Sciences, 400 College Blvd.
Featuring high-tech equipment including a 30-foot dome equipped with a Spitz Star Ball projector, this planetarium show recreates the night sky as it appears to the naked eye and gives viewers a close-up look at comets, exploding stars, and black holes. Showdates vary throughout each month.
Seguin
186th Birthday Party
Aug. 9
Heritage Village, 200 Block of East Live Oak Street
Seguin celebrates its 186th birthday with a party at the Seguin’s First Church and the Campbell-Hoermann Log Cabin in Heritage Village. Festivities over the years have included a barbecue dinner, homemade ice cream contestant, and live entertainment.
Rockport-fulton
Market Days
Aug. 16-18
Rockport Harbor, 100 Sea Breeze Drive
Live music plays throughout the weekend while you peruse over 100 vendors and more than a dozen food trucks and food merchants. There’s seating in the shade for 48 people and you can bring your pets. Come join the fun at the Festival Grounds at Rockport Harbor.
Denton
North Texas Fair and Rodeo
Aug. 16-24
North Texas Fairgrounds, 2217 N. Carroll Blvd.
The 96th annual fair and rodeo features nine day of entertaining activities including country music concerts, first-class rodeos, livestock shows, kids’ and fun zones, a carnival, parade, and other attractions.
Pleasanton
Cowboy Heritage Days
Aug. 24
Pleasanton River Park, 1030 Riverpark Road
The “Birthplace of the Cowboy” celebrates its heritage with a festival featuring concerts, craft and food vendors, a parade, and activities for kids.
Boerne
Kendall County Fair
Aug. 30-Sept. 1
Herff Park, 1307 River Road
The Kendall County Fair Association hosts the 118th annual Kendall County Fair. Head to the fairgrounds for a weekend of good old-fashioned community fun, with vendors, a Queen’s Pageant, a rodeo and livestock show on Friday and Saturday, and Bull Riding Extreme on Sunday. A parade on Main Street takes place on Saturday. Attendees can also see exhibits in the Homestead Heritage Exhibit Hall.
Baytown
Historic Building Tours
Aug. 31
Republic of Texas Plaza, 5117 N. Main St.
On the last Saturday of the month, the historic 1894 one-room Wooster School and 1910 Brown-McKay Farmhouse, located at The Republic of Texas Plaza, are open to the public for tours. Learn about the past at the city’s living history museum.
Midlothian
Autumn Beats Concert Series
Sept. 7, Oct.5, Nov. 2
Midlothian Community Park, Art Pierard Memorial Amphitheater, 3601 S. 14th St.
These family-friendly outdoor concerts are held in the evenings. Food for purchase is available, and outside food, drinks, and coolers are allowed. Bring chairs and blankets for lawn seating. There is ample free parking.
Lake Jackson
Festival of Lights
Nov. 18
Lake Jackson Civic Center, 333 SH 332
Lake Jackson brings the Yuletide cheer with this kick-off to the holiday season. Festivities include a carnival, games, and a parade.
