A note regarding COVID-19
Austin
Kimmie Rhodes Cooking Series
Sept. 27
Central Market, 4001 N. Lamar Blvd.
Singer-songwriter Kimmie Rhodes has organized a HOME (Housing Opportunities for Musicians and Entertainers) cooking series with Central Market. These specialty classes run once a month for a year and feature celebrity chefs and guests.
eventbrite.com/o/central-market-cooking-school-austin-north-lamar-30370421142
Fairfield
Big T Memorial Barbecue Cookoff
Sept. 29-30
WL Moody Reunion Fairgrounds , 839 E. Commerce
Organized by the Golden Circle Special Needs Association, all money raised goes to support people with special needs in the areas of Freestone, Limestone, Navarro, Anderson, and Leon counties. The cookoff features a state championship Lone Star Barbecue Society-sanctioned competition in chicken, brisket, and pork spare ribs. There is also the Cook’s Choice and Beans Jackpot categories, as well as the popular Kids’ Cookoff Challenge. Anyone can enter the competition, and there are family-friendly activities to enjoy as well.
Waxahachie
Screams Halloween Theme Park
Sept. 29-30; Oct. 6-7, 13-14, 20-21; 27-28
Screams Halloween Theme Park, 2511 Farm-to-Market Road 66
The world’s largest Halloween theme park comes complete with major attractions that you can tour as many times as you would like, scores of professional actors, activities, food and drink options, and games.
Dallas
State Fair of Texas
Sept. 29-Oct. 22
Fair Park, 3921 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
At 24 consecutive days, the State Fair of Texas is the longest-running fair in the nation, as well as one of the largest. The fair celebrates all things Texas with daily attractions and activities including the Texas Auto Show, musical stages of Texas music, a nightly starlight parade, and Big Tex there to greet visitors from near and far.
Waxahachie
Chautauqua Cowboy Poet Gathering
Sept. 30
Getzendaner Park, 400 S. Grand Ave.
The Chautauqua Preservation Society hosts this annual event featuring readings by cowboy poets, Western music, a chuckwagon breakfast, and other festivities. The event is held in the historic 1902 Chautauqua Auditorium.
New Braunfels
Gruene Music and Wine Festival
Oct. 5-8
Gruene Historic District , 1281 Gruene Road
The Gruene Music and Wine Festival began as a one-day event in 1987 with the purpose of promoting Texas and Americana music in a fun and relaxed setting while raising funds for the United Way of Comal County. Over the years, it has become a multi-day celebration, not only of Texas and Americana music, but also a celebration of wine made in the Lone Star State. Tasting tickets for craft beer and wine are available for purchase, and fun includes a silent auction and prize giveaways.
The Woodlands
Wine Walk at Market Street
Oct. 5
Market Street, 9595 Six Pines Drive
Spanning three blocks of Market Street, the Wine Walk offers a cornucopia of culinary creations, wine displays with industry experts and other wine experiences, craft beers, and live music. More than 50 beverage and 30-plus culinary offerings from local restaurants, chefs, and caterers are yours to enjoy.
Granbury
Oktoberfest
Oct. 6-8
Granbury Square, 100 E. Pearl St.
Grab your lederhosen and dirndls and celebrate this German tradition in the Granbury Square Plaza and Pavillion, with vendors located on the Plaza, Bridge Street, and Crockett. Expect shopping with vendors, beer hoisting contests, Hammerschlagen, Jenga, lumberjack contests, polka dancing, and family fun that includes a Kinderplatz to keep your children entertained.
Monahans
NRA Banquet
Oct. 7
Ward County Event Center, 1525 E. Monahans Pkwy.
The National Rifle Association (NRA) is holding a banquet with firearms, custom knives, art, and unique items created for NRA members. Dinner is served, and festivities include games and auctions.
Frisco
Oktoberfest
Oct. 7
Frisco Square, 8843 Coleman Blvd.
This family-friendly traditional Oktoberfest celebration features live music, a marktplatz with local shops and businesses, German food, folk dancing, a beer-hoisting competition, keg-rolling contests, and plenty of beer. The first attendees to arrive receive a free beer until the keg is tapped out.
Brownwood
Corks and Caps
Oct. 7
Brownwood Depot, 600 E. Depot St.
The seventh annual Corks and Caps features tastings of beer and wine from across Texas. A variety of food trucks are on hand offering food and desserts for purchase. All wineries have bottles of their signature wines for sale. Live music and other amenities set the tone for a fun, relaxing evening. The first 300 tasters get their choice of a Corks and Caps commemorative wine glass or a beer pilsner glass. Attendees must be 21 or older to purchase tasting tickets.
Waxahachie
OddFest
Oct. 7
Singleton Plaza, 200 N. Rogers St.
OddFest is an art and music festival showcasing artists and musicians from Texas who lean toward the odd. Local craft beer brewers, food trucks, and food vendors round out this one-of-a-kind event. Proceeds from OddFest raise money for the building fund of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows Lodge Waxahachie #80.
Huntsville
Fair on the Square
Oct. 7
Downtown , 1203 University Ave.
For over 40 years on the first Saturday in October, Huntsville has been home to this fair that offers one-of-a-kind treasures and gift items. Find 400 booths showcasing arts, crafts, a food court, a watering hole and wine tent with live music, two kids’ areas, and a classic car show.
Sherman
Stroll on the Square: Wine and Food Tastings
Oct. 7
Downtown , 100 W. Houston St.
Texas wines, sweets and savories from local restaurants and caterers, and live music are all being offered at this event hosted by Downtown Sherman NOW, the organization dedicated to the promotion and preservation of the city’s central business district.
Bandera
Frogs For Freedom
Oct. 7
11th Street Cowboy Bar, 307 11th St.
The Seal Veterans Foundation sponsors Frogs for Freedom, a fundraiser to benefit the Naval Special Warfare Veterans and their families. Enjoy scenic motorcycles rides, live music, dancing, a live auction, and barbecue plates.
Medina
Great Hill Country Pumpkin Patch
Oct. 9-30
Love Creek Apple Orchard, 14024 SH 16 North
Visit Love Creek Orchards on the weekends this month and enjoy a hay maze for small children, music, storytelling, an orchard tour, hayrides, pumpkin painting if you purchase a pumpkin, a petting zoo, and a cider press.
Junction
Texclipse Pre-Party
Oct. 13-14
Hill Country Fair Association, Farm-to-Market Road 2169
An annular “ring of fire” eclipse sweeps from Oregon to Texas in a 125-mile-wide path that continues to the Yucatan Peninsula and northern South America. Celebrate at this pre-party that includes a chili cookoff, live music, a washer-pitching contest, armadillo races, a margarita mix-off, chainsaw carving, a salsa competition, and other festivities.
Jefferson
East Texas Burn Run
Oct. 13-15
Downtown
Enjoy bikes, bands, and beer all weekend long. This event centers around Historic Auntie Skinners Riverboat Club and features bike games, a live auction and raffle for a brand-new motorcycle, live bands, and a bike show.
Cuero
Turkeyfest
Oct. 13-15
Cuero Municipal Park, Leonard Roy Harmon Drive
Held annually the second weekend of October, the 51st Turkeyfest features food, dances, a parade, entertainment for the whole family, and, of course, the final heat in the “Great Gobbler Gallop” turkey race to see which town gets the title of “Turkey Capital of the World.”
Clyde
Oktoberfest
Oct. 14-15
Downtown, 106 Cedar St.
Authentic German music, food, and fun with Texas flair await visitors to downtown Clyde as the city presents the second annual Clyde Oktoberfest. Scheduled to perform are Valina Polka and Das ist Lustig along with the dancing Tanzenfest Volkstanzkreis and German-born Evelyn Billington. Food trucks, vendors, and the Kinderberieich Kids Zone are just some of the other fun things you’ll find this weekend.
Monahans
West Texas Barbecue Bash
Oct. 14
Ward County Arena, 3202 S. Stockton Ave.
The fourth annual Bash has live music, free drinks (or you can BYOB), and free food tastings. There’s also a barbecue cookoff for chicken, ribs, and brisket.
Edinburg
University Drafthouse Beerfest
Oct. 14
Edinburg Food Truck Park, 201 N. Seventh Ave.
Try an array of new collaborations along with your favorite porters, stouts, pilsners, ales, wheats, belgians, ciders, and lagers. There are more than 100 premium and craft beers from over 85 breweries from around the world to try. Your ticket includes live music, interactive games, a wine garden, and free food from the best local restaurants.
Ingram
Annular Eclipse at Stonehenge II
Oct. 14
Hill Country Arts Foundation, 120 Point Theatre Road
The annular solar eclipse is passing right over Stonehenge II and the Hill Country Arts Foundation plans to celebrate by having live music and several food truck options on-site. Travelers can expect to find a beer tent, RV sites for rent, and hygiene stations on the closed campus.
Buda
Fajita Fiesta
Oct. 14
Buda Amphitheater and City Park, 204 San Antonio St.
Fiestagoers can experience the blending of foods, music, and cultures. They also can rediscover Texas through sights, sounds, and their taste buds. The tantalizing aroma of sizzling fajitas fill the air of Buda, attracting people from the Rio Grande to north of the Mason Dixon Line.
Galveston
Greek Festival
Oct. 14-15
Greek Orthodox Church, 714 19th St.
Opa! The Galveston Greek Festival revels in the culture and dishes of Greece with authentic food, wine, dancing, and tours of the Greek Orthodox church.
Plano
International Festival
Oct. 14
Haggard Park, 901 E. 15th St.
The area’s largest cultural event has food, fun, and entertainment for the whole family. Enjoy multicultural music and dance performances, ethnic food trucks, cultural displays, and an art exhibit; kids can explore science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM) activities plus travel the booths with a Festival Passport.
Granbury
Pub Shindy
Oct. 14
The Pub McDonough, 529 N. Houston St.
At this Irish holiday party, visitors can enjoy Irish music, Irish food such as bangers and mash, and specialty drinks.
Corpus Christi
VegiFest
Oct. 14
Heritage Park, 1581 N. Chaparral
Celebrate healthy living and eating by way of a plant-based lifestyle. This food festival serves as a time to celebrate and promote plant-based foods and environmental sustainability. Dont miss out on engaging speakers, delicious dishes, and vendors.
5K Beer Run
Oct. 14
Nueces Brewing Company, 401 S. Water St.
Run this fun course and enjoy great local beer at Nueces Brewing Company.
Buda
Restaurant Week
Oct. 16-22
Various Locations in Downtown Buda, Main Street
Paint your palate with the cuisine of Buda in a whole new way. Participating restaurants all over Buda serve up a secret menu and exclusive specials for Buda Restaurant Week only.
Houston
Party in the Park
Oct. 19
Menil Park, 1423 Branard St.
Spotlighting the Menil Collection’s neighborhood, green spaces, and outdoor sculptures, this enchanting evening includes refreshing cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and multiple food stations, accompanied by a live entertainment experience.
Eagle Pass
Autumn Nights on the Rio Grande
Oct. 19-29
Shelby Park, 220 W. Main St.
Enjoy live music, carnival rides, food vendors, and family fun along the banks of the Rio Grande.
Bandera
Bandera Brewery Beerfest
Oct. 19-22
Bandera Brewery, 3540 SH 16
The third annual Bandera Brewery Beerfest offers four days of fun games, craft beer, music, and great food. No ticket is required for entry but signing up for games in advance is encouraged. Winners from the Thursday through Saturday games compete in a grand championship playoff game on Sunday.
Houston
“Party in the Park”
Oct. 19
Menil Park, 1423 Branard St.
Mark your calendars for the return of the Menil Collection’s fall fundraiser, Party in the Park, an evening soiree that spotlights the Menil’s neighborhood, green spaces, and outdoor sculptures.
Lindale
Fall Piney Woods Wine Festival
Oct. 20-21
Picker’s Pavilion at Blackberry Square, 205 E. North St.
Visit the 20 award-winning wineries of the Piney Woods Wine Trail in one convenient location. There are $1 wine tastings plus live music, gift vendors, and food trucks.
Salado
Barrow Volksride
Oct. 21
Barrow Brewing Company, 108 Royal St.
The Barrow Volksride supports the brave men and women of the Salado Volunteer Fire Department. Riders choose from 16-, 32-, 66-, or 100-mile routes in the scenic Central Texas Hill Country. Routes start and finish at Barrow Brewing Company and cover roads from Holland to Belton and Nolanville. The 66- and 100- mile routes are a challenge with 2,500 degrees of climb. The event ends with a cold pint and a hot, fresh pretzel at the finish line. Enjoy the Oktoberfest celebration after your ride.
El Paso
Food and Wine Festival
Oct. 21-22
Downtown El Paso, 208 E. Main St.
The stars of El Paso’s culinary scene collide with acclaimed local chefs and wine experts. Located in the heart of downtown El Paso, the tasting features 500 wines from around the world plus food from 25 of El Paso’s finest restaurants.
Kingsland
Hill Country Food and Wine Festival
Oct. 21
The Legends Community, 105 Rangeway Circle
Sample the best of the Hill Country’s food and wine suppliers at the inaugural Hill Country Food and Wine Festival.
Lewisville
Best Little Brewfest
Oct. 21
Wayne Ferguson Plaza, Old Town, 150 W. Church St.
Best Little Brewfest is a ticketed, 100% charity beer festival that features craft breweries from around Texas, the U.S., and the world. Some wine and ciders are also included. Adult tickets include a souvenir tasting cup, tasting card for 12 samples, access to retail vendors and food trucks, and live music.
Boerne
Barktoberfest
Oct. 21
Main Plaza, 100 N. Main St.
This Oktoberfest-inspired festival comes complete with local beer vendors, music, food truck eats, a raffle, prizes, pet adoptions, a petting zoo, doggy dash races, and other festivities.
Kendall County Wild Game Dinner
Oct. 21
Kendall County Youth Ag and Equestrian Center, 648 FM 289 in Comfort
The Wild Game Dinner is the premier fundraiser for the Kendall County Jr. Livestock Association. Come feast on fine food (past events have had bacon-wrapped quail, fried alligator and axis, and wild boar chili verde) from returning cook teams as well as a few new ones.
Pipe Creek
Pipe Creek Dancehall Market Days
Oct. 21-22
Pipe Creek General Store and Dancehall, 9878 SH 16 South
It’s time to fiesta. This event at historic Pipe Creek General Store and Dancehall features live music, food, shopping, pony rides, and other festivities
Plano
Food and Wine Festival
Oct. 21
Legacy West, 5908 Headquarters Drive
The fifth annual Plano Food and Wine Festival showcases over 100 wines (many award winning), foods from local restaurants, culinary demos from local chefs, and merchandise from local boutiques and shops.
Kingsland
Taste Highland Lakes
Oct. 21
The Legends on Lake LBJ, 105 Rangeway Circle
Sample the best of the Highland Lakes in the Texas Hill Country at the first Taste Highland Lakes event sponsored by the Kingsland/Lake LBJ Chamber of Commerce. Partial proceeds from ticket sales benefit the youth of Kingsland. Live music is provided by Six Sons of a Gun. Get ready to taste all the great food, coffee, beers, and wines from several of the region’s vendors.
Elgin
Hogeye Festival Weekend
Oct. 26-28
Downtown , 109 Depot St.
Held the fourth Saturday of October, this annual festival features handmade arts and crafts, live music, food, kids’ activities, and plenty of pig puns. Special events include Lindsy Kay Wing Children’s Costume Pet Parade, Road Hog Car Show, Gordon Swenson Memorial Barbecue Pork-Off, and Cow Patty Bingo. The Hogeye Stroll takes place Thursday and includes the Pearls Before Swine Art Show and the the Hogalicious Dessert Contest. On Friday, there’s a street dance with Kenny Orts and No Chance.
Granbury
Harvest Moon Festival of the Arts
Oct. 27-29
Granbury Square, 201 E. Pearl St.
Harvest Moon Festival of the Arts celebrates over 100 of the best fine art and fine crafts artists all over the country. Presented by the Historic Granbury Merchants Association, this long-running festival showcases artists, makers, and craftspeople. In addition to artist gallery booths, the event offers food, local entertainment and seasonal activities.
Alba
Golden Sweet Potato Festival
Oct. 28
Golden Sweet Potato Festival Grounds, 5921 FM 779
What began as a community event and fundraiser has since morphed into one of the largest events in Wood County. It's a time for family and class reunions, and for celebrating the sweet potato harvest. Festivities includes a live sweet potato auction, pageantry, mutton bustin', a 5K, parade, and a gospel night.
Mason
Arts and Wine Festival
Oct. 28
Mason Town Square, 201 Fort McKavitt St.
Enjoy the work of talented artists and winemakers during the Arts and Wine Fest. A whole host of local artists and craftspeople, Mason winemakers, and Texas winemakers featuring wines made with Mason County grapes line the sidewalks with their creations.
Teague
Parkfest
Oct. 28
Eighth Avenue City Park, North Eighth Avenue
The annual event showcases arts and crafts and local food vendors and includes a barbecue cookoff, car show, volleyball tournament, cornhole tournament, costume contest for the kids, and a free gunslinger show.
Waxahachie
Texas Country Reporter Festival
Oct. 28
Downtown , 100 W. Main St.
The 27th annual festival highlights the artists, craftspeople, musicians, and cooks of the Lone Star State, many of whom have been featured on “Texas Country Reporter” over the years.
Stonewall
100 S’more Years of Campfire Cooking
Oct. 28
Sauer-Beckmann Farm , 501 State Park Rd 52
What better way to celebrate the past 100 years of Texas State Parks and look forward to 100 more years than enjoying s’mores with family or friends? Join a park ranger for a family-friendly campfire at the Sauer-Beckmann Farm to make s’mores to celebrate 100 years of Texas State Parks.
Corpus Christi
Halloween Bar Crawl
Oct. 28
The Bridge Bar & Club, 510 N Chaparral St
On this spooky bar crawl, attendees can enjoy custom drink specials, music, dancing, an after-party, photo opportunities, and a costume contest. Six-plus venues are participating and food will also be served at the venues.
Terlingua
Frank X. Tolbert-Wick Fowler Original Terlingua International Championship Chili Cookoff
Nov. 1-4
Delia White’s Property, 22970 FM 170
The first cookoff in 1967, created and promoted by Frank X. Tolbert and friends, only had two cooks, New Yorker H. Allen Smith, and Texas legend Wick Fowler. It was supposed to settle the dispute over who knew more about chili-Texans or New Yorkers. There were three judges and the contest ended in a draw. The event now brings in thousands of attendees and each year, chili cooks participate in their local area sanctioned events, earning points toward qualification. Once qualified, the cook is invited to participate in the annual Terlingua championship.
Port Arthur
Murder Mystery Dinner
Nov. 2
Robert A. “Bob” Bowers Civic Center, 3401 Cultural Drive
Come to this murder mystery dinner hosted by the Port Arthur Chamber of Commerce. Dress in your finest 1920s Mafia or film noir costume and act the part. Everyone’s a suspect but can you figure out who did what?
New Braunfels
Wurstfest
Nov. 3-12
Wurstfest, 120 Landa St.
Celebrate Texas’ German culture near the headwaters of the beautiful Comal River. Ten days of fun include good food, music, dancing, carnival rides and games, Texas and German beers, special events, and the finest Bavarian-style entertainment in the state.
Lampasas
Hunters Welcome
Nov. 3
H-E-B Parking Lot, 705 S. Key Ave.
Grab a barbecue lunch and support the community as Lampasas welcomes hunters for the season. The first 250 people to stop by get a goodie bag.
Lake Jackson
Mums and Mistletoe Market
Nov. 3-4
St. Michael’s Event Center, 100 Oak Drive
This holiday market, celebrating its 41st year and presented by the Women of St. Michael, offers a variety of vendors selling everything from Christmas decorations to pottery and clothes. It’s also known for serving its famous market café cheese soup.
Corpus Christi
Greek Festival
Nov. 3-5
St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church, 502 S. Chaparral St.
Baklava, gyros, and music await you at the 60th annual festival, where you can immerse yourself in the food, dancing, and culture of Greece. The event also offers church tours.
Lago Vista
Northshore Craft Beer Fest
Nov. 4
Bar K Park, 6608 Bar K Clubhouse Court
Brew enthusiasts sip craft beers and wine from Hill Country brewers and winemakers while indulging in great food from food trucks. Crafts offer a creative element to the day, while music lifts the soul.
Lockhart
Texas Monthly Barbecue Fest
Nov. 4-5
Lockhart City Park, 504 City Park Road
Lockhart, the barbecue capital of Texas, welcomes some of the top 50 barbecue joints in the state for Texas Monthly’s Barbecue Fest. Attendees can expect barbecue samples, an artisan market, live music, and cooking demonstrations.
Austin
Food and Wine Festival
Nov. 4-5
Auditorium Shores, 900 N. Riverside Drive
Pamper your palate in one of the hippest cities in the country at the Austin Food and Wine Festival. Join top chef talent, sommeliers, and winemakers from across the nation, and members of Austin’s own acclaimed gourmet scene for an indulgent epicurean adventure, topped off with live musical performances. The annual culinary event offers delicious food and wine along with panels and cooking demonstrations from world-renowned chefs in a great outdoor setting.
Ballinger
Hunters Appreciation Dinner & Raffle
Nov. 5
Ballinger Community Center, 200 Crosson Ave.
The annual Hunters Appreciation Dinner includes raffle items, a silent auction, and vendors.
Salado
Scottish Gathering and Highland Games
Nov. 10-12
Thomas Arnold Elementary School Grounds, Salado Museum and College Park, 423 S. Main St.
The 62nd annual gathering and games include the skirl of the bagpipes, the wearing of the tartan, tossing the caber, Highland dancing, Celtic entertainers, shopping, food, and fun. One of the main attractions is the Clan Village, the largest gathering of Scottish Clan tents in Texas where Clan members share information about Scottish history and genealogy. Heralding all things Scottish, this landmark event is the oldest Scottish festival in Texas and has been sponsored continuously by the Central Texas Area Museum, now Salado Museum and College Park, since 1959.
Huntsville
Marine Corps Birthday Party
Nov. 10
H.E.A.R.T.S. Veterans Museum , 463 SH 75 North
Stop by the H.E.A.R.T.S. Veterans Museum for a barbecue lunch and cake-cutting ceremony to celebrate the Marine Corps’ birthday.
Mason
Mason County Wild Game Dinner
Nov. 11
Mason Community Center, US 87 and Ranch Road 1723
The Mason Chamber of Commerce Wild Game Dinner is held every second Saturday in November. Sample wild game appetizers plus enjoy beverages, games, and auctions. The evening supports the Mason County Chamber of Commerce as well as several youth programs in Mason.
Austin
Miracle on Fifth Street
Nov. 16-Dec. 28
The Eleanor, 307 W. Fifth St.
Featuring wall-to-wall Christmas décor, multiple bars, cheery social experiences, and a lot of Christmas spirit, Miracle on Fifth Street is a holidays-themed pop-up cocktail bar that serves drinks in the most festive and nostalgic setting in the city.
Palestine
Pancakes with Mrs. Claus
Nov. 17-19, 24-26; Dec. 1-3, 8-10, 15-17, 22-23
Home Grill Steak House , 223 W. Crawford St.
Jump out of bed and start the day with a hot pancake breakfast with Mrs. Claus. Of course, PJ’s are welcome.
Walk of Lights
Nov. 17-Dec. 31
Majical Wonderland, 2161 FM 315
Take a self-guided stroll through a magically lit-up winter wonderland. Snap pictures with Santa, sip hot chocolate, and indulge in lots of goodies available for purchase.
Whiskey and Wine Swirl
Nov. 18
Downtown and Old Town Palestine, 401 W. Main St.
Join revelers at the ninth annual Whiskey and Wine Swirl, where guests can sip, shop, and walk through historic downtown Palestine while enjoying culinary delights paired with fine wines and bold whiskies from Texas vineyards and distilleries.
Wills Point
Dutch Oven Cookoff
Nov. 18
Lake Tawakoni State Park, 10822 FM 2475
Celebrate 100 years of Texas State Parks by putting your campfire culinary skills to the test. Campers compete in this event to see who can create the best Dutch oven dish.Prizes are awarded to five winners selected by a panel and one winner by vote. Categories selected by panel include: most creative, main course, vegetarian dish, side dish, and dessert. The Fan Favorite award is decided by vote, so come ready to eat.
Palestine
Holiday Brunch at the Queen
Nov. 18-Dec. 23
Queen Street Grill, 400 N. Queen St.
To celebrate the most festive season of all, brunch is served at the Queen. Indulge in a holiday buffet or order from an a-la-cart menu as you sip bloody mary’s and mimosas. For information and reservations, call 903-723-2404.
Hughes Springs
Holiday on First Street and Cork and Fork
Nov. 20
Legacy Event Center, 122 E. First St.
The Monday before Thanksgiving, various locations in Hughes Springs host vendors, food trucks, and wine tastings. Tastings come with a canvas bag and a souvenir wine glass, and there’s hourly drawings to win a free bottle of wine.
Jasper
Pioneer Day
Nov. 21
Martin Dies Jr. State Park, 634 Park Road 48 South
Take a journey back in time and experience the life of pioneers. Explore how to live off the land and look closer at local flora and fauna. Take to the water and practice paddling on a river adventure. Join the campfire and discover the practice and patience of Dutch oven cooking. Try out your fishing prowess with a cane pole, and reconnect with nature in a new way by experiencing the skills of a pioneer.
Plano
Turkey Trot 2023
Nov. 23
Red Tail Pavilion, 2801 E. Spring Creek Parkway
Join a Thanksgiving tradition, the sixth annual Plano Turkey 5K Run/Walk that takes place on Thanksgiving morning. Everyone gets a donut at the finish line.
Boerne
Old West Christmas Light Fest
Nov. 24-26; Dec. 1-3, 8-10, 15-23
Enchanted Springs Ranch, 242 SH 46
Old West Christmas Light Fest brings the holiday season to life under the star-filled Texas sky at Enchanted Springs Ranch. Featuring more than 40 Old West buildings glowing in the midst of more than 2 million twinkling lights, the event allows you to stroll and enjoy dazzling lights and have fun around the campfire with hot chocolate, beer, and wine. Visit Santa’s Holly Jolly Herd of longhorns ready to pull his sleigh across Texas.
Bastrop
Lost Pines Wassail Fest
Nov. 25
Downtown , 921 Main St.
Holiday shoppers and visitors are invited to downtown Bastrop for the annual Wassail Fest. Homemade hot mulled cider is served throughout downtown, and visitors can vote for their favorite recipe. Past events have included live polka music and shopping specials.
Terlingua
Giving Thanks for a Desert Haven
Nov. 25
Fort Leaton State Historic Site, Farm-to-Market Road 170 East
Watch Fort Leaton come to life and experience what it was like for travelers taking refuge inside the walls of the fort. Meet some of the inhabitants, eat some traditional La Junta foods, and try your hand at some of the day-to-day activities that would have been happening at the fort in the late 1800s. This interactive living history event transports you back to a time when Fort Leaton was at its height of operations as a trading post.
Mesquite
Christmas on the Square
Nov. 28
Downtown , 111 S. Broad St.
Enjoy the sights, sounds, and flavors of Christmas at this holiday season tradition in the historic heart of Mesquite, with festivities including holiday treats and the sparkle of holiday lights.
Paris
Texas Barbecue Blowout
Nov. 30-Dec. 2
Love Civic Center, 2025 S. Collegiate Drive
On Thursday, a live concert commences to kick off the festivities, and Friday brings a fish fry. On Saturday, the Texas Barbecue Blowout includes a cookoff for chicken, ribs, pork butt, brisket, and turkey. The cookoff has a $10,000 payout.
Dallas
Christmas Lights, Chocolate, and Sips Tours
Dec. 1-30
Dallas by Chocolate, 4925 Greenville Ave.
Board a heated motor coach and taste scrumptious treats from premier local dessert venues, then glide past some of Dallas’ most spectacular holiday displays in the Park Cities neighborhood or in Frisco and Addison (including Vitruvian Lights). All the while, sip hot chocolate onboard. Exact meeting place information is given to ticket holders, since a number of tours may take place at once.
Mesquite
Christmas in the Park
Dec. 2-3
Westlake Park, 601 Gross Road
Get in the Christmas spirit and come out to see Westlake Park transformed into a winter wonderland with twinkling lights, holiday music, and festive decorations. Guests can stroll through the park, sip hot cocoa, and enjoy the sights and sounds of the season.
Bonham
Holiday Wine Stroll and Taste of Bonham
Dec. 2
Downtown Bonham, 327 N. Main St.
Experience an evening of tasting Texas wines and food from local restaurants and caterers as you stroll the Bonham square and visit businesses and boutiques. Ticket purchase is required.
Palestine
Christmas Parade of Lights
Dec. 2
Downtown, Main Street
Palestine’s only nighttime parade includes the Courthouse Lighting Ceremony at 7 p.m. The parade then departs from the courthouse square and winds its way through downtown. See the streets of historic downtown Palestine aglow with colorful lights and floats. After the parade, enjoy a free movie, Santa Claus, and hot cocoa and refreshments at Rotary Park.
Elgin
Holiday by the Tracks
Dec. 2
Veteran’s Memorial Park, 109 Depot St.
Enjoy the annual Cocoa Stroll, the Candy Christmas Bazaar, and a lighted Christmas parade. The Elgin Chamber of Commerce hosts the shopping event at Veteran’s Memorial Park with a focus on all things Christmas—from wreaths to stockings to gifts and trees. The Cocoa Stroll lets you sip on hot cocoa and vote for your favorite ones.
Junction
Christmas at the Ranch
Dec. 2
South Llano River State Park, 1927 Park Road 73
Warm up with some hot chocolate and cider, listen to live entertainment, enjoy crafts and cookie decorating, wait for Santa to come for a visit, and see the twinkling lights and Christmas decorations at the historic Ranch House. There’s free entry to the park from 2 to 5 p.m. during the program.
Kerrville
Schreiner Mansion Holiday Tours
Dec. 5-21
Schreiner Mansion, 226 Earl Garrett St.
On Tuesdays and Thursdays, Schreiner Mansion opens for holiday tours during the month of December to benefit the Hill Country Youth Orchestra. Enjoy wassail, cookies, carolers, and a historic home tour. Tours go on every half hour with 1:30 p.m. being the last tour.
Wild West Wine Wednesday
Dec. 6
Museum of Western Art, 1550 Bandera Highway
At the Wild West Wine Wednesday, visitors can enjoy a pleasant evening trying complimentary samples from an area brewery, winery, or distillery while learning about the museum’s latest exhibits.
Clute
Christmas in the Park
Dec. 8-9
Clute Municipal Park, 100 Parkview Drive
Christmas in the Park is an event that gets the whole family in the holiday spirit—from watching performances by local choirs and dance groups to fixing s'mores by the crackling fire to a visit with Santa. The drive-thru holiday light display is available the entire month of December.
Bastrop
Lost Pines Christmas Festival
Dec. 9
Downtown , 921 Main St.
The Bastrop Main Street Program hosts the Lost Pines Christmas Festival in historic downtown Bastrop. The event includes Christmas caroling, hot cocoa, popcorn, hot dogs, s’mores, window decorating, Christmas stories, photo ops, oversized games, and Letters to Santa.
Baytown
Christmas on Texas Avenue Festival
Dec. 9-10
ACE District, 123 W. Defee St., Suite 8
Shop for the holidays, enjoy live entertainment, have breakfast and lunch with food vendors, visit the local merchants, see the Sculpture Trail, enjoy Santa’s Playground, and, of course, take photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Mesquite
Christmas at the Ranch
Dec. 9
Florence Ranch Homestead, 1424 Barnes Bridge Road
Experience the delightful 1871 home of David W. and Julia Savannah (Beaty) Florence decorated for the holiday season. Enjoy cookies, cocoa, and photo opportunities with Father Christmas.
Grand Prairie
Breakfast with Santa
Dec. 9-10, 16-17
Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark, 2970 Epic Place
Bring the whole family for a meet and greet with Santa, plus a breakfast buffet and admission for all-day swimming.
Elgin
Sip, Shop, and Stroll
Dec. 14, Jan. 11, Feb. 8
Downtown, 109 Depot St.
Sip a little wine and shop as you stroll through the stores in historic downtown Elgin. Find diverse merchandise, eclectic décor, artwork by local artists, live music, the Elgin Farmers Market, delicious food, and fun, friendly people.
Boerne
Kinder Fest
Dec. 15-17
Downtown, 100 N. Main St.
Bring the kids here for a weekend full of Christmas fun. Everyone is encouraged to show off their ugly Christmas sweaters, silly Christmas pajamas, and Whoville hairdos. Events include the Cookie Crawl, a free Santa scavenger hunt, photos with Santa, and the Cowboy Christmas Market Days.
Rockport
Market Days
Dec. 15-17
Festival Grounds at Rockport Harbor, 100 Seabreeze
Every third weekend of the month, come see live music, peruse the merchandise of over 150 vendors, and choose various eats from food trucks in a pet-friendly environment.
New Braunfels
Come and Taste It: Meet Texas’ Best Winemakers “Holiday Edition”
Dec. 21
The Grapevine, 1612 Hunter Road
Taste favorite Texas wines at this monthly event that features live music and complimentary tastings of a craft beer hand-selected by the Grapevine staff. The event is held the third Thursday of the month (except January) and is an opportunity to sit and sip in the heart of Gruene Historic District.
Fredericksburg
Zweite Weihnachten (Second Christmas)
Dec. 26
Pioneer Museum, 312 W. San Antonio St.
The annual German tradition, Zweite Weihnachten (“Second Christmas”), is sponsored by the Fredericksburg German Club and includes food, drink, music, and fellowship. There is also traditional baked stollen (fruit bread) and warm gluhwein (mulled wine) along with the singing of carols in both German and English.
Plano
Hotcake Hustle
Jan. 6
Oak Point Park & Nature Preserve, 5901 Los Rios Blvd.
Bring the whole family: There’s a distance for everyone. The 10K, 5K, Fun Run, and Virtual Run meander through beautiful trails in the Plano Oak Point Nature Preserve. The after-party offers participants hotcakes, coffee, hot chocolate, ice cold beer, and other grub.
Galveston
Restaurant Week
Jan. 8-28
Various locations
The perfect time to try new eateries on the island, Restaurant Week offers low-priced menu items for more than two weeks in January.
Rockport
Market Days
Jan. 19-21
Festival Grounds at Rockport Harbor, 100 Seabreeze
Every third weekend of the month, come see live music, peruse the merchandise of over 150 vendors, and choose various eats from food trucks in a pet-friendly environment.
Fulton
Winter Texan Appreciation
Jan. 20
Fulton Convention Center, 402 N. Fulton Beach Road
Every mid-January, the Rockport Fulton Chamber of Commerce hosts an appreciation day for special winter guests in the area. Winter Texans are encouraged to stop by for refreshments, door prizes, entertainment, and a meet and greet with other visitors.
Jefferson
Queen Mab Ball
Jan. 27
Jefferson Visitor Center, 305 E. Austin St.
Spend the evening celebrating at this Jefferson tradition that features food, live music, dancing, costumes, beads, and the crowning of the 2024 Mardi Gras King and Queen.
Galveston
Mardi Gras Galveston
Feb. 2-13
Downtown and Galveston Seawall
Parades, live music, and lots of beads mark the state’s largest Mardi Gras celebration. The fun takes place over two weekends in historic downtown Galveston and the surrounding area and culminates on Fat Tuesday, Feb. 13.
Bandera
11th Street Mardi Gras and Main Street Parade
Feb. 2-4
11th Street Cowboy Bar, 307 11th St.
Join the fun at the 11th Street Cowboy Bar for three days of a Mardi Gras festivities with Cajun food and zydeco music. Enjoy all the colorful floats and parade entries as they travel down Main Street during the Mardi Gras parade on Feb. 3.
Beaumont
Mardi Gras SETX
Feb. 8-11
Various locations
Let the good times roll, y’all. Experience the ultimate celebration of community and culture at Mardi Gras SETX. (Southeast Texas) in Beaumont. There’s fun for all, including furry friends. Whether you’re marching with a krewe, reveling in the parade, or savoring four days of nonstop entertainment, this festival offers memorable Mardi Gras festivities.
Dallas
Decadent Valentine Dreams Chocolate Tour
Dec. 10
Dallas by Chocolate, 4925 Greenville Ave.
Indulge your Valentine’s Day chocolate passions on this tour for chocolate lovers. Visit Dallas’ finest chocolatiers and other dessert venues to taste decadent treats. Pricing includes transportation in a private motor coach, a wide variety of dessert samples, and great beverages (you can also bring your own). The exact meeting location is given to ticket holders.
Aransas Pass
Pardi Gras
Feb. 10
Downtown Aransas Pass, 203-360 S. Commercial St.
The family-friendly Pardi Gras festival in downtown Aransas Pass kicks off in the morning with vibrant floats and decorated vehicles. There’s also a gumbo cookoff and competition, kids’ activities, food trucks, vendors, and live music that keeps the party going all day long. Admission is free.
Freeport
Mardis Gras Festival
Feb. 10
Freeport Historical Museum, 311 Park Ave.
Enjoy a parade, gumbo cookoff, King Cake-eating contest, and other festivities.
Boerne
Chocolate Walk
Feb. 10-11
Downtown, County Road 690 between State Highway 332 and Farm-to-Market Road 523
This sweet event takes participants on a stroll through historic downtown Boerne. Collect a special chocolate treat as you step inside each participating store, gallery, and restaurant along Main Street. Once you’ve visited all the stores you can return your raffle ticket for a chance to win prizes donated by the store owners.
Clute
“Side by Side” by Sondheim Special Dinner Theater
Feb. 14-18
Center for the Arts & Sciences, 400 College Blvd.
This musical revue features the award-winning songs of Broadway and film composer Stephen Sondheim.
New Braunfels
Come and Taste It: Meet Texas’ Best Winemakers
Feb. 15
The Grapevine, 1612 Hunter Road
Taste favorite Texas wines at this monthly event that features live music and complimentary tastings of a craft beer hand-selected by the Grapevine staff. The event is held the third Thursday of the month (except January) and is an opportunity to sit and sip in the heart of Gruene Historic District.
Laredo
Jalapeño Festival
Feb. 16-17
El Metro Park and Ride , 1819 Hillside Road
Part of Laredo’s annual Washington’s Birthday Celebration, this two-day festival features live music, delicious fair foods, cold adult beverages, and of course, the one and only La Costeña Jalapeño Eating Contest, dubbed the hottest 15-minutes in South Texas.
Rockport
Market Days
Feb. 16-18
Festival Grounds at Rockport Harbor, 100 Seabreeze
Every third weekend of the month, come see live music, peruse the merchandise of over 150 vendors, and choose various eats from food trucks in a pet-friendly environment.
Mesquite
Texas Fly Fishing and Brew Festival
Feb. 24-25
Mesquite Convention Center, 1700 Rodeo Drive
The sixth annual Texas Fly Fishing and Brew Festival is a family-friendly event where you can learn every aspect of the quiet sport. At the indoor/outdoor venue, attendees can meet fly-fishing manufacturers, attend lectures on techniques and topics of interest to fly anglers of every stripe, and taste some of the Lone Star State’s best microbrewed beer. Meet nationally known fly-fishing authors, professional guides, expert casters, custom bamboo rodmakers, and fly tyers from across the country.
