Harry Ransom Center, 300 W. 21st St.

The Harry Ransom Center presents an exhibition exploring the history of PEN, the renowned international association dedicated to protecting free expression. The exhibition draws upon the Center’s PEN Records collection in order to trace the history of the organization from its founding as a dinner club in 1921, through the darkest days of war and repression, to supporting contemporary writers and readers today. The exhibition allows visitors to engage with key moments from the story of PEN, showing how writers need freedom of expression in order to produce inspiring work, and how, in turn, readers need to be free to choose what they read.

hrc.utexas.edu

El Paso Museum of Art, 1 Arts Festival Plaza

Tom Lea was one of the most prolific Southwestern artists of the 20th century. This exhibit features landscapes, portraits, and mural studies that highlight the correspondence between artists to tell the story of a tightly knit creative community, which made El Paso a central point for rich cultural exchange. Along with Lea, artists include Manuel Acosta, Lois Denton, Freemont Ellis, Leola Freeman, Carl Hertzog, Peter Hurd, Ada Miller, Audley Dean Nicols, Urbici Soler, and Henriette Wyeth. A gallery tour with Adair Margo, founder of the Tom Lea Institute, takes place on Oct. 10.

tomlea.com

The Grace Museum, 102 Cypress St.

This exhibition displays works by Nancy Newberry, a photographer who draws inspiration from classic spaghetti western movies, merging documentary portrayals with dreamlike creations that investigate notions of nationalism and community.

thegracemuseum.org

Pioneer Museum, 325 W. Main St.

On the Friday before the first Saturday of the month, the Pioneer Museum and the Vereins Kirche Museum offer guests the opportunity to explore a temporary exhibit in the museum store, demonstrations (spinner, handworker, and blacksmithing), the living history interpretors, and a family hands-on activity plus a scavenger hunt.

pioneermuseum.org/first-weekend-at-the-museum

Freeport Historical Museum, 311 E. Park Ave.

At this exhibition, visitors can stand inside enormous shark jaws, see life-size models of different sharks, and learn about Freeport’s historic fishing industry.

freeportmuseum.com

Grapevine Tower Gallery, 636 S. Main St.

From June through August, celebrate Grapevine’s dinosaur discoveries by visiting the Grapevine Tower Gallery for prehistoric adventures. Follow dinosaur tracks along historic Main Street for fun fossil finds at the shops and cafes and enjoy themed cartoons and movies at the Palace Theatre. Don’t miss out on Grapevine Vintage Railroad’s Dinosaurs on the Tracks or special digs at Nash Farm.

grapevinetexasusa.com/dinosaurs

Gonzales Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture/Visitor Center, 304 Saint Louis St.

For 45 minutes, explore some of the most historic spots in Gonzales at a relaxed pace. The route starts at the Gonzales Chamber of Commerce, takes you through key sites around the square, and includes a quick 20-minute stop at the Gonzales County Jail Museum, which is just a block away.

tourgonzales.com/events

Flying L Ranch and Resort, 675 Flying L Drive

Available Tuesdays through Saturdays, visitors can sit by the campfire and roast marshmallows while enjoying entertainment by a cowboy under the Texas stars. Also, enjoy wagon rides to feed the deer, visit Ghost Town, or watch the running of the horses.

flyingl.com

Arneson River Theatre, 418 Villita St.

The oldest outdoor dance performance of its kind in the United States, Fiesta Noche del Rio, Spanish for “Party Night on the River,” is a musical variety show of authentic Mexican, Spanish, and Texas songs and dances performed by local professionals. San Antonio’s annual iconic cultural performance, full of colorfully costumed dancers and rich, lush sounds, brings to life the deep roots that make San Antonio a special place for love and life. The audience is seated on tiered grass seats across the river from the stage, located in La Villita, the Little Spanish Village of the city.

fiestanochesa.com

Temple Railroad and Heritage Museum, 315 W. Avenue B

See a stunning photographic journey by John A. Chakeres, who captured NASA’s early space shuttle missions. From Columbia’s 1981 launch to Challenger’s 1986 tragedy, his 56 color photographs showcase the four operational shuttles—Columbia, Challenger, Discovery, and Atlantis—through breathtaking portraits and launch sequences.

templerrhm.org

Historic Herff Farm, 33 Herff Road

Find what you need at this market open every Saturday, whether you want to hike the trails, shop in the open air, get gardening inspiration, take classes on growing food, volunteer at the Cibolo Center for Conservation, or get new recipe ideas.

cibolo.org/locations/farmersmarket

Fort Concho National Historic Landmark, 630 S. Oakes St.

Fort Concho presents this special exhibit of Western art from six American plains artists, who were chosen by guests of last year’s art show. Paintings depict vistas, historical topics, still life, and characters of the Old West.

fortconcho.com

Bandera Middle School, 1005 Cherry St.

Bandera is one of seven Texas cities chosen to host the Smithsonian traveling exhibit “Crossroads: Changes in Rural America.” The focus of the exhibit is to takes a close look at the evolution of rural America in the last century. Come see all the exciting exhibits on display throughout the county.

banderacowboycapital.com

Rattlesnake Ridge, 126 SH 16 South

On Saturdays, see the Bandera Cattle Company Gunfighters reenact 1800s gunfights twice a day at Rattlesnake Ridge, located behind the Bandera Visitors Center.

facebook.com/banderagunfighters

Enjoy free cowboy fun on Main Street in downtown Bandera. Activities can include chuckwagon storyteller, horse-drawn wagon tours of the town, and live Western music.

banderabusiness.com

San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts, 1 Love St.

In this first traveling exhibition of artworks by Ezra Tucker, the untold stories of the Black experience in the history of the American West are depicted alongside monumental and dramatic paintings of North American wildlife and examples of allegory, fantasy, illustration, and narrative.

samfa.org

Gonzales Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture/Visitor Center, 304 Saint Louis St.

Spend a Saturday exploring Gonzales’ Museum District on the Gonzales Bus Tour. Journey through Gonzales’ vibrant past with an expert guide.

tourgonzales.com/events

National Museum of the Pacific War, 508 E. Austin St.

Taking out well-defended targets at long range often required that the military bring in the big guns, as well as the artillerymen who fired them. Attend this free program to learn more about field artillery in the Pacific War.

pacificwarmuseum.org/event/outpost-artillery-4

National Museum of the Pacific War, 340 E. Main St.

Wherever American troops went during WWII, they always hunted for trophies to take home as proof of their adventures. Anything that had belonged to the enemy and wasn’t nailed down was fair game for American troops. Learn more about the type of items taken as trophies in this special outpost.

pacificwarmuseum.org/event/outpost-the-spoils-of-war-trophies-in-the-pacific

Fort Concho National Historic Landmark, 630 S. Oakes St.

Enjoy a light breakfast and talk on the American Plains Artists Summer Show, followed by a skit by the Concho Cowboy Company.

fortconcho.com

Courthouse Lawn, 500 Main St.

The Frontier Times Museum hosts this celebration with festivities that include a gunslinger show from the Bandera Gunfighters, live music, and special Old West guests. The Riding the River Cowboy Fellowship’s “Bulls, Barrels and Breakaway Contest” rodeo evening event takes place at Mansfield Park that night.

banderabusiness.com

Fair Park Coliseum, 1438 Coliseum Drive

Presented by the African American Museum, Dallas, the family-fun rodeo features Black cowboys and cowgirls competing for cash prizes in bronc and bull riding, calf and steer roping, barrel racing, and a Pony Express relay race plus on-field kids’ activities, trick lasso performances, concessions, and music. Aside from the thrills and spills, the popular rodeo provides a powerful glimpse of the historical contributions African Americans made in settling the western U.S.

aamdallas.org

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.

frontiertimesmuseum.org

Fort Concho National Historic Landmark, 630 S. Oakes St.

This event features programs and activities to mark the anniversary of the creation, by an act of Congress, of the all-Black Buffalo Soldier units in the U.S. Army in 1866.

buffalosoldierswesttexas.com

Bastrop Museum and Visitor Center, 904 Main St.

Winemaking in Texas has a long and surprising history that extends nearly 350 years. The earliest accounts of successful vineyards were started by missionaries near El Paso in the late 1600s. Although the Texas environment creates limitations, early European settlers from wine-producing countries helped lay the foundation for winemaking in Texas. This special exhibit delves into the history, culture, and artistry of winemaking specific to Bastrop County.

bastropcountyhistoricalsociety.com

Del Rio Council for the Arts at the Firehouse, 120 E. Garfield St.

Del Rio Council for the Arts presents the photography of award-winning photojournalist Arthur Grace, whose color photojournalism archives are housed at the Dolph Briscoe Center for American History at the University of Texas in Austin. The exhibit showcases the unique blend of tradition and eccentricity at state fairs across 10 states.

delrioarts.com

National Museum of the Pacific War, 508 E. Austin St.

As the Pacific War raged on, Japanese defenses only became stronger as American troops inched nearer to the Japanese home islands. Visit this free program to learn about how the Marine Corps handled such defenses using everything from tanks to satchel charges, and see live flamethrower demonstrations.

pacificwarmuseum.org/event/outpost-marine-assault-squad

Rattlesnake Ridge, 126 SH 16 South

On Saturdays, see the Bandera Cattle Company Gunfighters reenact 1800s gunfights twice a day at Rattlesnake Ridge, located behind the Bandera Visitors Center.

facebook.com/banderagunfighters

Enjoy free cowboy fun on Main Street in downtown Bandera. Activities can include chuckwagon storyteller, horse-drawn wagon tours of the town, and live Western music.

banderabusiness.com

Jefferson Convention and Visitors Center, 305 E. Austin St.

The event spends a whole day focused on various aspects of the Trans-Mississippi Civil War history, with presentations, expert speakers, exhibits, vendors, an auction, and lunch. There’s also a Friday night speakers reception.

jeffersonmuseum.org

Texas Theatre, 425 N. Austin St.

One of the oldest towns in Texas, Seguin celebrates its 187th birthday with a party that includes the annual homemade ice cream competition. Winners walk away with the coveted blue ribbon in four categories: Best Homemade Vanilla, Pecan Recipe (after all, the town is known for having the world’s biggest pecan), Non-Vanilla, and the People’s Choice Award.

visitseguin.com

S.A.L.E. Rodeo Arena, Paso del Norte Road

Sanctioned by the Working Ranch Cowboys Association, this rodeo features brave performances by real working cowboys, a chuckwagon cookoff, and other activities.

bigbendranchrodeo.com

National Museum of the Pacific War, 340 E. Main St.

As WWII ravaged the globe, small groups of scientists across the country spent years developing the weapon which would help end the war: the atomic bomb. Come to this free program to learn more about the bomb itself, as well as the men and women behind it.

pacificwarmuseum.org/event/outpost-the-manhattan-project

National Museum of the Pacific War, 508 E. Austin St.

While divisions such as the 101st and 82nd Airborne are rightfully famous for their heroic drops into Europe during WWII, fewer people have heard of the 11th Airborne Division or the 503rd Parachute Infantry Regiment. Come to this free program to learn about these daring paratroopers, their gear, weapons, and the unique challenges that the Pacific posed for airborne infantry.

pacificwarmuseum.org/event/outpost-skyjumpers-paratroopers-in-the-pacific-war

Fort Concho National Historic Landmark, 630 S. Oakes St.

Fess Parker was a San Angelo native who went on to a movie and TV career portraying both Davy Crockett and Daniel Boone. This festival is all about celebrating his legacy.

fortconcho.com

San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts, 1 Love St.

“The Global Language of Headwear: Cultural Identity, Rites of Passage, and Spirituality” presents 89 hats and headdresses carefully selected from a private collection of more than 1,300 extraordinary pieces of headwear from all over the world.

samfa.org

National Museum of the Pacific War, 508 E. Austin St.

During the Pacific War, tanks served as the infantryman’s best friend when it came to tackling Japanese defenses. Their crews came together to work as a well-oiled machine through thick and thin. Visit this free program to learn more about the M3 Stuart tank, as well as the men who crewed them during the Pacific War.

pacificwarmuseum.org/event/outpost-war-machine

The Grace Museum, 102 Cypress St.

The Grace Museum presents this exhibition that highlights the early history of Abilene High School and Lincoln Middle School, both formerly located in one of Abilene’s oldest and most significant buildings. Along with narratives about the history of the site, the exhibition includes reproductions of the David S. Castle architectural drawings, historic photographs, and artifacts from the site.

thegracemuseum.org

The Grace Museum, 102 Cypress St.

In connection with The Grace Museum’s “Beginnings” exhibition, this related show highlights clothing and ephemera from Abilene-area junior high and high schools, colleges, and universities.

thegracemuseum.org

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.

frontiertimesmuseum.org

Bandera honors its cowboy and Western heritage with the Longhorn Cattle Drive Parade, arts and crafts, music, gunfight reenactments, a ranch rodeo, and Lil’ Wrangler activities.

banderatex.com

Kendall County Fairgrounds, 1307 River Road

It’s time for the 118th Kendall County Fair. Make plans to head to the fairgrounds for a weekend of good old-fashioned fun that includes vendors, the queen’s pageant, a rodeo, Bull Riding Extreme, a livestock show, a parade on Saturday, and exhibits in the Homestead Heritage Exhibit Hall.

kcfa.org

Pioneer Museum, 325 W. Main St.

On the Friday before the first Saturday of the month, the Pioneer Museum and the Vereins Kirche Museum offer guests the opportunity to explore a temporary exhibit in the museum store, demonstrations (spinner, handworker, and blacksmithing), the Frontier Company Interpretive Living Historians, a family hands-on activity, and a scavenger hunt for Frederick Burger. Schandua House features interpretive docents, and the Historic Jail is also open.

pioneermuseum.org/first-weekend-at-the-museum

Fireman’s Park, 910 N. Park St.

Brenham’s antique carousel at Fireman’s Park is open for Saturdays in September and October.

downtownbrenham.com

Moody Gardens Convention Center, 7 Hope Blvd.

It’s a car lover’s dream at the Moody Gardens Convention Center as the hall is filled with rows of classic and creative vehicles and the stories that accompany them.

Every Saturday, enjoy free cowboy fun in downtown Bandera with activities such as chuckwagon storytelling, Longhorn photo opportunities, saddle-broke Longhorn rides, or a horse-drawn wagon tour of Bandera.

banderabusiness.com

Rattlesnake Ridge, 126 SH 16 South

On Saturdays, see the Bandera Cattle Company Gunfighters reenact 1800s gunfights twice a day at Rattlesnake Ridge, located behind the Bandera Visitors Center.

facebook.com/banderagunfighters

Freeport Historical Museum, 311 E. Park Ave.

The Freeport Historical Museum presents a new exhibition about the history of education in the Freeport area. This exhibit features information and artifacts from Freeport schools dating back to the late 1800s, as well as opportunities for Freeport alumni to share their schooltime stories.

freeportmuseum.com

Abner Jackson Plantation Site, Farm-to-Market Road 2004 near State Highway 332

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. Discover the sugar-making process of the 1840s and how convict labor replaced slave labor during the 1870s.

ljhistory.org

National Museum of the Pacific War, 340 E. Main St.

Ever wonder what American troops ate while fighting in the Pacific? From K-rations to steak and eggs, this free outpost tells about eating on the frontlines in the Pacific War.

pacificwarmuseum.org/event/outpost-food-at-the-front

Oswaldo Cantu Pan Am Recreation Center, 2100 E. Third St.

The Mexican-American Cultural Center hosts its annual Viva Mexico celebration to showcase visual art, dance, and musical performances that explore Mexico’s history through cultural art traditions.

austintexas.gov/page/viva-mexico

Lakeside Park, 305 NW Seventh St.

This spirited event honors Mexican Independence Day with a festive atmosphere filled with music, dance, and tradition. Folklórico performances, food trucks, and family activities are all part of the fun.

andrewstx.com

Salado’s Historical Cabins, 601 N. Main St.

Found in an old home in Salado, this two-room fully constructed log cabin, dating back to the 1840s, was dismantled and reconstructed by the Salado Historical Society. Named after its original owners, the Boles-Aiken cabin, as well as the Denman cabin, are open to the public once a month.

saladohistoricalsociety.com

Downtown Square, 100 Buck St.

The Kolache Capital of Texas hosts its annual festival offering attractions and homemade kolaches. See the crowning of Miss Kolache, followed by the youth beseda dancers. There’s also the kolache eating contest, kolache baking championship, a 5K Kolache Krunch run, and polka music. Arts and crafts, food, a quilt show, classic car shows, and children’s activities round out the event.

burlesoncountytx.com/kolache-fest

Kuhlmann-King Museum, 402 E. Blanco Road

On the second and fourth Saturday of each month, 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 themes vary.

bahpsboerne.org

Freeport Historical Museum, 311 E. Park Ave.

Learn about the early history of Hispanic settlers in the Freeport area.

freeportmuseum.com

Downtown

This show features more than 100 years of rural American history with vehicles as well as stationary and working antique engines, antique farm machinery, and antique displays. Events include a swap meet, a parade, exhibits, a slow tractor race, and awards ceremony.

diamonddonempire.com

Meadows Museum, 5900 Bishop Blvd.

Capturing the unique culture, grit, joy, and humanity of Mexico and the Texas border, this exhibition of more than 75 images—most never before exhibited—by celebrated photographer Laura Wilson includes intimate portrayals of village life, popular festivals, cowboys, fire breathers, and captivating portraits that illuminate a vibrant existence.

meadowsmuseumdallas.org/exhibitions/roaming-mexico-laura-wilson

Downtown , 701 Main St.

This vibrant festival features live entertainment from Southeast Texas including Lucha Libre wrestling, an array of diverse dishes served from food trucks (plus beer and micheladas for purchase), and a variety of family-friendly activities.

visitbeaumonttx.com

Traders Village, 2602 Mayfield Road

Traders Village celebrates Fiestas Patrias with free live music and entertainment.

tradersvillage.com/grandprairie

Lee Lockwood Library and Museum, 2801 W. Waco Drive

Have you ever wondered what would happen if two locomotives collided into each other? William George Crush with the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad Company had the same idea when he proposed and helped coordinate their infamous publicity stunt the Crash at Crush on September 15, 1896. Come watch Texas Comedies perform a brand new musical production on the notorious Texas train crash.

historicwaco.org/calendar/2025/9/20/texas-comedies-crash-at-crush

National Museum of the Pacific War, 508 E. Austin St.

Though more famous for their domination of the Eastern Front, did you know that the Soviet Union also fought in the Pacific? This free outpost tells about Soviet troops, their equipment and weapons, and the part they played in defeating Japan.

pacificwarmuseum.org/event/outpost-red-star-red-sun-soviet-japanese-border-battles

Fort Concho National Historic Landmark, 630 S. Oakes St.

Explore the past 2,000 years of the Concho Valley with displays, children’s activities, and demonstrations.

fortconcho.com

Downtown, 199 N. Burleson St.

Experience Hispanic culture with music, dance performances, and food. Mariachi sounds, spirited Aztec dancers, and folklórico shows keep you entertained. Don’t miss the “grito” (yell) contest, and bring your lawn chairs.

giddingstx.com/visit-giddings

Discovery Green, 1500 McKinney St.

Immerse yourself in the sounds and sights of Mexico with this group of mariachis and ballet folklórico dancers.

discoverygreen.com

Davy Crockett Memorial Park, 600 Bradshaw St.

Get ready to experience a day full of culture, tradition, live music, kids activities, and lots of color. The fourth annual Hispanic Heritage Day, hosted at Davy Crockett Memorial Park, is a thoughtfully organized event lead by residents to showcase Hispanic food, history, and entertainment.

crockettareachamber.org

Temple Railroad and Heritage Museum, 315 W. Avenue B

This exhibit showcases historic images taken by the Santa Fe Railroad in Temple, Texas, offering a visual journey through the early 20th century. Featuring rare photographs from railroad valuation surveys, the collection highlights the development of the railroad’s infrastructure within the city.

templerrhm.org

Winnsboro Center For The Arts, 200 Market St.

Cowboy Tales is a juried art exhibit held each year in conjunction with the Winnsboro Cowboy Music and Poetry Gathering. The exhibition exemplifies the theme of Western culture and imagery.

winnsborocenterforthearts.com

Trinity Park, 2933 Farmhouse Way

Enjoy a Munich-style celebration of German culture, food, beer, and entertainment. Thursday’s ceremonial “Tapping of the Kegs” kicks off the fun and the festival continues through Saturday with carnival rides, dachshund races, Siegi’s Sausage Brat Eating Contest, bier barrel rolling, stein hoist competitions, the Oktoberfest 5k, and other festivities. Entertainment includes over 50 German polka and party band performances.

fortworthoktoberfest.com

Wayne Ferguson Plaza, Old Town, 150 W. Church St.

Held each year in Old Town Lewisville, Western Days celebrates Western culture with live music, a live cooking demonstration, car show, food and merchandise vendors, and the World Tamale Eating Championship.

lewisvillewesterndays.com

Heritage Village, 157 PR 6000

Listen to fascinating stories regarding legends and tales from Tyler County’s colorful history.

heritage-village.org

National Museum of the Pacific War, 340 E. Main St.

Thousands of women across the country gave their all to supporting the war effort at home and overseas during WWII. From victory gardens and airplane manufacturing to rationing food and training fighter pilots, this outpost shows how American women did their part.

pacificwarmuseum.org/event/outpost-propaganda

Comanche City Park, 1200 Comanche Trails

The 44th annual Comanche County Pow Wow celebrates local heritage with Native American-themed performances, over 100 food and craft vendors, vintage car, tractor, and motorcycle shows; a barbecue cookoff, art and photography contests, and family-friendly entertainment.

comanchechamber.org

Whitehead Memorial Museum , 1308 S. Main St.

The Whitehead Memorial Museum hosts the 31st annual Oktoberfest. Celebrate with beer, food, and live polka music.

whiteheadmuseum.org

St Paul’s Lutheran Church Picnic Grounds, FM 2239 and CR 212

Hosted by Texas Wendish Heritage Society, this festival celebrates Wendish culture with services at St Paul’s, then continues with authentic Wendish food, children’s activities including stick horse races and coloring contests, competitions like a coffee cake bake-off, and demonstrations. See Wendish noodle making, sausage making, and the authentic decorating and sale of traditional Wendish Easter eggs.

texaswendish.org

Finley Theater, 500 N. Elm St.

“The Diary of Anne Frank” is a stage adaptation of the posthumously published 1947 book, “The Diary of a Young Girl,” by Anne Frank. It focuses on Anne Frank’s life while living in hiding during WWII.

scptheater.org

Gonzales Chamber of Commerce, 304 St. Louis St.

Each fall, on the first full weekend of October, Gonzales celebrates the first shots for Texas independence in a three-day festival called Come and Take It. Enjoy live music on the square, a carnival for the kids, a car show, chicken flying, arts and crafts, and a battle reenactment.

De Leon Plaza, 101 N. Main St.

This two-day fall festival is a celebration of all things Texas. Enjoy live Tejano and Texas country music, a car show, a kids’ area, food trucks, and a shopping market.

discovervictoriatexas.com

Nash Farm, 626 Ball St.

Throughout history, farmers and crop growers would take to the fields in the fall to bask in the moonlight and harvest their summer-grown crops. To celebrate this time-honored tradition, this dinner includes a menu that reflects cuisine enjoyed in times past.

grapevinetexasusa.com/nash-farm/events/harvest-moon-supper

The Meadows Center, 201 San Marcos Springs Drive

The Sacred Springs Powwow honors the culture, art, traditions, and languages of the Coahuiltecans, the Native people who have lived in the San Marcos area for thousands of years. Experience Native dancing, storytelling, a market, and educational programs.

sspowwow.com

Andrews Chamber of Commerce, 700 W. Broadway

This evening event offers local vendors, delicious food, live entertainment, and festive fun. Raise your steins high in the stein-hoist competition, sample authentic German-inspired bites alongside local flavors, and browse a curated selection of artisan vendors.

andrewstx.com

Freeport Historical Museum, 311 E. Park Ave.

Celebrate Texas Archeology Month with sand excavations and artifacts you can touch.

freeportmuseum.com

Varner Hogg Plantation State Historic Site, 1702 N. 13th St.

Celebrate the season and learn about harvest time on a 1800s plantation. The event includes hayrides, crafts, sugar cane, and storytelling.

visitvarnerhoggplantation.com

Downtown , 4001 Main St.

Celebrate Hispanic heritage with music, dance, and delicious cuisine. Enjoy family-friendly activities, crafts, and performances that honor the diverse traditions of Dia de Los Muertos and Latin culture.

rowletttx.gov/2217/viva-cultura

Horsehead Crossing on the Pecos River, SH 11 and Horsehead Road

This celebration of the Goodnight-Loving Trail, Butterfield Stage Line, Emigrant Trail, and Comanche War Trail is held at the second-most iconic historical location in Texas, Horsehead Crossing on the Pecos River, between Girvin and Imperial. Enjoy chuckwagon meals, Comanche dancers, gunfighter shootouts, live cannon fire, history presentations, and walking tours.

pecoscountyhistoricalcommission.org/horsehead-crossing-celebration

Fort Concho National Historic Landmark, 630 S. Oakes St.

Take an evening walking tour of the historic site with true and scary stories told.

fortconcho.com

Pape Event Center, 1705 N. Fifth St.

General Thomas Harrison was murdered during a summer soirée he was hosting at his home in Waco. The suspects include his own family, local business owners he was feuding with, his own employees, and former soldiers. Each person has a reason to be angry with Harrison, but who would want to murder him? This is the question we need your help answering. Come dressed in your best 1890s attire to help solve this murder mystery. Hors d’oeuvres and drinks are provided.

historicwaco.org/calendar/2025/10/3/cotton-kings-demise

Stone Eagle Beer Garden, 124 N. Austin St.

Employees don traditional Bavarian outfits and serve German fare such as bratwurst, red cabbage or sauerkraut, potatoes, and rye bread. There are wiener dog races, beer specials, and live music.

stoneeaglebeergarden.com

Pilot Point Square, 55 Washington St.

The annual festival is held to commemorate the day Hollywood came to Pilot Point, when the film “Bonnie and Clyde” shot its famous bank robbery scene at the historic Farmers and Merchants Bank Building.

bonnieandclydedays.org

Kreische Brewery and Monument Hill State Historic Sites, 414 State Loop 92

Learn more about the work that archeologists do by exploring the history and artifacts of Kreische Brewery, a site excavated by Texas Parks and Wildlife in the 1970s. There’s a mock excavation, artifact touch and table, pottery making and mending, and special brewery tours.

thc.texas.gov/events

Thompson Park , 2401 Dumas Drive

At Cottonwood Faire, Amarillo’s Renaissance faire and historical festival, visitors can have fun watching live-action medieval combat during the Royal Feast, interacting with the fictional characters, and enjoying food trucks, vendors, and live entertainment.

cottonwoodfaire.com

Heritage Village, 157 PR 6000

This East Texas folk life festival includes pioneer demonstrations, music (dulcimer, bluegrass, folk, gospel, and country), dancing, food, artisans, and The Big Thicket Outlaws shootout.

heritage-village.org

Fort Concho National Historic Landmark, 630 S. Oakes St.

Take a self-guided tour using provided clues as you walk about site to find the person who did the murder at Fort Concho.

fortconcho.com

Llano County Historical Museum , 310 Bessemer Ave.

Spend some time in Llano learning about the history of the area. Friday there’s a Texan supper with live music. Saturday is the festival with living history actors, music, games, crafts, and museum tours. Sunday is the living history cemetery tour.

llanomuseum.org

Downtown , South Main Street

Duplicate: Fiesta de Amistad honors the culture and friendship between the Del Rio and Acuña communities. The 65th annual event is hosting a boot scootin’ celebration, with a parade on Main Street that showcases at least 100 colorful floats. Show off your fun western style this year.

facebook.com/p/international-good-neighbor-council-del-rio-chapter-100064352006891

Val Verde County Fairgrounds, 2006 N. Main St.

Duplicate The Fiesta de Amistad celebration continues with new events at the Val Verde Country Fairgrounds: Charro Extremo, the Cabrito Fest Cookoff, team roping, and goat roping.

facebook.com/p/international-good-neighbor-council-del-rio-chapter-100064352006891

Downtown, City Park

The afternoon parade begins at the city water tower on East Broadway, travels 2.3 miles through historical downtown Winnsboro, and includes horses, mules, and wagons of all types. The next day, riders take a 16-mile trail ride through the countryside of the Piney Woods. Trail riders may camp out in tents or RVs in City Park. Camps may be set up Friday through Sunday at noon.

winnsboroautumntrails.com/autumn-trails-riders-welcome-parade

Main Street

Step back in time and explore the legendary tales and colorful characters that have shaped this vibrant region. Begin at the historic Borger Hotel, then wander Main Street, where each building holds secrets waiting to be uncovered. Hear tales of outlaws, pioneers, and local legends before ending at Plemons Cemetery.

visitborger.com

Brazos Valley Museum of Natural History, 3232 Briarcrest Drive

Celebrate Brazos County’s pioneer heritage with the annual Buffalo Stampede 5K race, then visit with characters in period costume, enjoy cowboys, reenactors, musicians, dancers, artisans, pony rides, and kids’ activities. Observe demonstrations of frontier skills and trades including flint-knapping, spinning, weaving, quilting, and blacksmithing.

brazosvalleymuseum.org/copy-of-boonville-days-1

Voices From the Past, 14364 Liberty St.

Take a graveside tour through two of Montgomery’s historic cemeteries. Actors in period dress stand near headstones of prominent persons’ graves as they relate the deads’ lives and accomplishments.

Downtown , 500 Main Plaza

Celebrate Día de los Muertos and Hispanic culture in New Braunfels. Expect live music, face painting, and a kids’ area with games, activities, and craft making. There are also vendors selling food, beer, and arts and crafts.

visitnbtx.com/events/dia-de-los-muertos-festival-new-braunfels-tx

Ember Cigar Co & The Yard - Downtown Hillsboro, 107 E. Elm St.

Oktoberfest is an annual celebration in downtown Hillsboro, with German foods, drinks, contests, and the locals and visitors that make the small town festival fun. This event is presented each year by Ember Cigar Company.

Various locations, 121 N. Colket Ave.

In days gone by, Kerens was a major cotton producing area in Texas. To celebrate the harvest and fund the town’s new library, the Kerens Cotton Harvest Festival began. For 21 years, the festival has revived the excitement of the harvest with vendors selling their wares, exhibitors, a car show, a quilt show, a photo contest, a pie contest, live entertainment, and a street dance.

kerenscottonharvestfestival.com

Haggard Park, 901 E. 15th St.

Visit colorful cultural booths and a wide variety of vendors, taste new flavors from different parts of the world, participate in interactive games, and enjoy many other festivities.

events.visitplano.com/event/plano-international-festival-2025

Water Street Market , 306 N. Chaparral St.

Corpus Christi’s coastal twist on Oktoberfest blends German beer culture with surf-town vibes. The family-friendly festival features over 50 local and imported brews, live music, German fare like schnitzel sliders and soft pretzels, and stein-holding, lederhosen, and pet costume competitions. Kids can enjoy face painting and educational activities, while adults explore vintage Volkswagens.

downtowncorpuschristi.org/do/surftoberfest

Grapevine Vintage Railroad, 705 S. Main St.

Join ghouls and goblins aboard the Grapevine Vintage Railroad for a hauntingly good time. There are craft brews and spooky bites, making for a Halloween celebration like no other.

grapevinetexasusa.com/gvrr/special-events/witches-brew-train

Fort Concho National Historic Landmark, 630 S. Oakes St.

Walk through a haunted house in a historic building.

fortconcho.com

Evergreen Cemetery, 1868 N. Vine St.

Experience live theater in a historic cemetery setting. Visit with townspeople, portrayed by actors, at their gravesites and learn about their history. The information presented is historically accurate and entertaining.

victoriapreservation.com

Asia Times Sqaure, 2625 W. Pioneer Parkway

Enjoy a free outdoor event at Asia Times Square with food vendors serving cuisines from all across Asia.

asiatimessquare.com

National Museum of the Pacific War, 340 E. Main St.

As America entered WWII, it quickly realized that communications were going to make or break the war effort. In response, American communications rapidly became some of the best developed and most coordinated the world had ever seen. This outpost teaches about radios, field telephones, and other communications during WWII.

pacificwarmuseum.org/event/outpost-communications-4

Oakwood Cemetery, 702 Grand Ave.

The 18th annual historic walking tour involves reenactors in period dress telling the stories of cemetery “residents.”

stockyardsmuseum.org

Cave Without a Name Throne Room, 325 Kreutzberg Road

Enjoy a spirited musical adventure with “A Taste of the Mariachi Extravaganza,” featuring the return of Navelli Peña with UTSA’s Mariachi Los Paisanos and participants from the upcoming 31st annual Mariachi Extravaganza Music Festival in San Antonio.

cavewithoutaname.com/content/taste-mariachi-extravaganza-2025

Varner Hogg Plantation State Historic Site, 1702 N. 13th St.

Take a spooky nighttime stroll through the woods to the plantation’s 1840s-era Patton Family Cemetery, and learn about mortality on the plantation during the 1800s and the dangers of the early Texas wilderness.

visitvarnerhoggplantation.com

Victoria Community Center, 2905 E. North St.

Learn about the farming and ranching industries from educational programs, classes, speakers, and exhibitors. Programs are offered for adults and children.

southtexasfarmandranchshow.com

San Jacinto County Jail Museum , 200 Commercial Ave.

See the 1887 historic jail turned into a haunted jail. There are movies, music, a food truck, and family-friendly scares.

Columbia Cemetery, Corner of 16th and Jackson streets

Meet your ancestors at one of the most historical cemetaries in Texas, the Columbia Cemetery. Guides lead guests to graves of notable occupants.

columbiahistoricalmuseum.org

Jefferson Convention and Visitors Center, 305 E. Austin St.

Experience a day of special guest speakers, vendors, tours, and nighttime investigations at some of Jefferson’s historic sites and rumored haunted locations. This is a fun event for those who enjoy history, mystery, the unexplained, and things that go bump in the night.

facebook.com/historyhauntsandparanormalconference

Discovery Green, 1500 McKinney St.

Families and friends gather to celebrate and remember their loved ones and prepare special foods in their honor. Expect a market, community altar, and a Catrina (Mexican skeleton character) contest.

discoverygreen.com

Oakville Jail, 107 Curry St.

Attendees bring chairs and sit under the stars by the campfire as they listen to invited authors, historians, and storytellers read a story from one of J. Frank Dobie’s works or read a piece inspired by his works.

dobiedichos.com

The Giddings Stone Mansion, 2203 Century Circle

The exterior and interior rooms of Giddings Stone Mansion feature different holiday themes.

giddingsstonemansion.com

Espino Conference Center, Sul Ross State University, 400 N. Harrison St.

The 31st annual Center for Big Bend Studies conference brings together historians, archaeologists, folklorists, and other researchers studying the past and present of the Big Bend region and northern Mexico.

cbbs.sulross.edu/conference

Salado Museum and College Park, 423 S. Main St.

The 64th annual event includes the skirl of bagpipes, the wearing of the tartan, tossing the caber, Highland dancing, Celtic entertainers, shopping, food, and other Celtic fun.

saladomuseum.org

National Museum of the Pacific War, 340 E. Main St.

Ever wonder what soldiers and Marines did during their downtime? From baseball and radio shows to movies and magazines, this outpost shows how American troops passed the time when not on the frontlines.

pacificwarmuseum.org/event/outpost-hurry-up-wait-2

Downtown, 206 W. Moore Ave.

British Bash celebrates the relationship between Terrell and England, which dates back to World War II. This event features arts and craft vendors, food vendors, live music, and all things British.

discoverterrell.com

Will Rogers Memorial Center, 3400 Burnett Tandy

In the spirit of heritage and artistic celebration, Cowboy Artists of America invites visitors to attend the 59th annual Western Art Exhibition and Sale, a showcase for exceptional Western art that attracts enthusiasts and collectors from across the nation.

cowboyartistsofamerica.com

Oak Point Event Field, 2801 E. Spring Creek Parkway

Visit a field blanketed with over 1,000 American flags, each telling the story of heroes whose lives were devoted in service to others, many of whom made the ultimate sacrifice. Special programs are held throughout the week to recognize the heroes. Events include programs from veterans organizations, musical performances, patriotic reenactments, and static displays.

events.visitplano.com/event/plano-flags-of-honor-2025

Downtown and Depot Museum, 100 E. Main St. and 514 N. High St.

Enjoy a celebration of pure cane syrup, crafted with time-honored tradition in Henderson. One of the sweetest festivals in Texas features craft demonstrations, vendors selling a variety of merchandise, live music, food, children’s activities, and a car show.

visithendersontx.com

The Barnhill Center at Historic Simon Theatre, 111 W. Main St.

This award-winning musical spectacle is a cross-generational crowd pleaser. Hear the greatest ‘60s hits by musicians from Creedence Clearwater Revival and The Who.

thebarnhillcenter.com/events

Freeport Historical Museum, 311 E. Park Ave.

The Karankawa-Kadla are the living descendants of the Indigenous people that lived along the Texas Coast. Learn about historic artifacts, pottery making, and the Karankawa language that has survived.

freeportmuseum.com

University of Houston, Student Center South, 4455 University Drive

The largest and oldest festival of Islamic arts in the United States takes place at the University of Houston and features artists from across the country. The 2025 festival is set to celebrate diverse forms of Islamic arts, including calligraphy, Ebru, henna, music, paintings, and woodwork. There’s also a captivating live Sufi music program, stand-up Muslim comedy show, a film festival, a spoken word program, an art workshop, and an academic seminar. With over 5,000 pieces of art by more than 50 artists on display, visitors have the opportunity to enjoy, appreciate, and purchase art. They can also engage in interactive art sessions, live art demonstrations, children’s art activities, learn about Islamic art and culture, attend workshops, and savor ethnic food.

islamicartssociety.org/12th-annual-islamic-arts-festival-2025/

National Museum of the Pacific War, 340 E. Main St.

One of the great enigmas of WWII was the fighting style of the Imperial Japanese forces who disdained surrender, even preferring suicide to the shame of defeat. This program teaches about the living conditions, equipment, and philosophy of the Imperial Japanese troops.

pacificwarmuseum.org/event/outpost-in-the-service-of-the-emperor-5

The Panther Island Pavilion, 395 Purcey St.

Experience beautiful run courses along the Trinity River, surrounded by stunning fall foliage. After the race, head to the Shack for a festive afterparty with pumpkin spice coffee, hot chocolate, ice-cold beer, pumpkin spice treats, and live music.

runproject.org/pumpkin-spice-race

Pioneer Museum, 325 W. Main St.

Take a self-guided tour of seven historic homes and the historic Pioneer Memorial Library.

pioneermuseum.org/home-tour

Gilmer Civic Center, 1218 US 271 North

“Before the Manger—Beyond the Cross” is a powerful original drama that begins before creation and stretches to the return of Jesus Christ. Journey along to a realm where Jesus wrestled with the weight of His mission, the angels watched in awe, and the love of God for His children was set in motion.

zeffy.com/ticketing/before-the-manger-beyond-the-cross-a-christmas-story-of-salvation

Traders Village, 2602 Mayfield Road

Gathering at the Village brings together tribes for a day of colorful tribal dance, music, and fun. The event is held under the Big Red Patio.

tradersvillage.com/grandprairie