Texas is full of vibrant cultural festivals and events, making it tough to decide where to start! Festival season here is packed with opportunities for new adventures. Here are some of the best festivals and events in Texas that you definitely don’t want to miss!
January
Houston Martin Luther King Jr. Grande Parade
Houston proudly hosts the Martin Luther King Jr. Grande Parade, a vibrant and inspiring event that stands as one of the largest MLK Day celebrations in the United States. Each year, the streets come alive with colorful floats, energetic marching bands, and a multitude of community groups, all coming together to honor the legacy of Dr. King.
Houston Texas Lunar New Year
The Houston Texas Lunar New Year Festival is one of the largest Lunar New Year celebrations in the state, reflecting the rich Asian cultural heritage of the city. It usually takes place around late January or early February especially with ongoing cultural activities and smaller gatherings.
One of the key highlights is the dragon and lion dances, which are performed to bring good luck and drive away evil spirits. Many attendees wear traditional red clothing, symbolizing good fortune and joy
Denton Black Film Festival
Experience the Denton Black Film Festival, a welcoming celebration of Black culture and creativity! This lively event showcases the richness of artistic expression through films, music, art, spoken word, and technology. You’ll find a diverse selection of films that dive into Black history, culture, and today’s issues, as well as personal stories that offer unique perspectives.
After the screenings, attendees can join friendly Q&A sessions with the filmmakers, providing a great opportunity to chat about the themes and creative journeys behind the films.
FronteraFest Austin
FronteraFest is Austin’s largest and longest-running performance festival, celebrating creativity across multiple artistic genres. It takes place throughout January and into February. This unique festival features short plays, music performances, spoken word, stand-up comedy, and experimental art forms at various venues in Austin.
February
Galveston Mardi Gras
Can’t make it to New Orleans for Mardi Gras? No need to worry! Galveston has the biggest Mardi Gras in Texas and with so much Cajun influence. This fun-filled event features vibrant parades with stunning floats, lively music, and participants dressed in all sorts of creative costumes.
The atmosphere is buzzing with street parties, and you’ll love catching beads and trinkets tossed into the crowd There’s something for everyone with live concerts filling the air with festive tunes and food stalls serving up tasty Cajun and Creole dishes.
Austin Jugglefest
When it comes to weird festivals in Texas, we can bet that Austin will have a few including Jugglefest that covers all aspects of juggling! This festival includes performances by top jugglers as well as workshops and games.
Austin Carnival Brasilera
It’s one of the largest indoor Brazilian-style Carnival celebrations in the United States, drawing in thousands of party-goers each year. It’s all about music, dance, costumes, and, of course, having a great time! This event is all about the costumes—the flashier, the better!
People dress in bright, extravagant outfits with feathers, sequins, and glitter. Some go all out with full Carnival costumes, while others might just add a colorful mask or a feathered headpiece.
Cowtown Marathon Fort Worth
The Cowtown Marathon in Fort Worth is not just a race but also a celebration of health, fitness, and community. The marathon offers various running events, from the ultra-marathon to the 5K. It’s accompanied by a health and fitness expo, live entertainment, and food trucks serving hearty meals to runners and spectators.
After the race, there are awards ceremonies, music performances, and plenty of fun activities, making it a festive experience for participants and supporters.
San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo
The San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo combines thrilling rodeo competitions with live music, a carnival, shopping, and livestock shows. Attendees can enjoy barrel racing, bull riding, and calf roping events, followed by concerts featuring big-name country and Tejano artists. There’s also a wide range of Texas-style food vendors serving barbecue, fried foods, and Tex-Mex favorites
March
Hidalgo Borderfest
The Hidalgo Borderfest is happening every spring in the city of Hidalgo, usually in March. It’s all about showcasing the diverse cultures of the Rio Grande Valley, with a mix of music, food, dancing, and family fun. Music is a big part of BorderFest, with live performances all day long.
You’ll find tacos, tamales, fajitas, and delicious grilled street corn, plus international options like Italian, Asian, and more.
Shamrock St. Patrick’s Day Celebration
As you’d expect, it’s all about celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with plenty of green, Irish music, and a warm, small-town vibe. This event has been a tradition for more than 75 years, making it one of the best St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in Texas!
It’s not just for adults—there’s a carnival with rides and games for kids, face painting, and even a petting zoo, making it a perfect outing for families.
Frisco Pinball Festival
The Frisco Pinball Festival is a super fun event held every spring in Frisco, Texas, bringing together pinball lovers of all ages. A must-visit for anyone who loves the flashing lights, sounds, and excitement of these classic arcade games. From vintage machines from the 1960s to the latest, high-tech pinball games, there’s something for everyone—whether you’re a seasoned pro or just a beginner.
Dallas St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival
Join the largest St. Patrick’s Day parade in the Southwest as it celebrates Irish culture and heritage in a fun, friendly way! This lively event features colorful floats, lively marching bands, and enthusiastic community groups. Everyone dresses in green and enjoys the upbeat atmosphere with live music, delicious food from the trucks, and activities that the whole family will love.
After the parade, head to local bars and pubs for exciting after-parties, where you can enjoy drink specials, traditional Irish dishes, and even more live entertainment.
San Antonio Coffee Festival
Coffee addicts (just about all of us) are going to love this Texas coffee festival all about a bean that get’s us through our day. Try coffee from all over the world, learn about the art of coffee and the different brews, and hang out with a bunch of other people who love coffee!
April
Llano Earth Art Fest
Llano Earth Art Fest is an outdoor festival that celebrates the beauty of earth art! Here, artists use natural materials to craft amazing temporary installations, including stunning stone sculptures along the scenic Llano River. Enjoy a variety of workshops, captivating art displays, and live music performances that add to the vibrant atmosphere.
Join in on the fun with activities like the exciting “rock stacking championship,” relaxing yoga sessions, and creative art projects for kids.
Poteet Strawberry Festival
The Poteet Strawberry Festival is a sweet celebration of all things strawberry, held every spring in Poteet, Texas, usually in early April. The main attraction is, of course, the juicy strawberries! Local farmers set up booths to sell freshly picked strawberries, and you can sample strawberry treats from food vendors throughout the festival.
It’s not just about the berries—there’s a full carnival with rides, games, and fun for all ages.
San Antonio Fiesta
Fiesta San Antonio is a 10-day event in memory of the battle of the Alamo and San Jacinto. It is a celebration of San Antonio culture and it’s an event in Texas you do not want to miss out on! It also might just be the biggest party in San Antonio filled with parades, cultural celebrations, live music performances, and back-to-back special events!
Port Aransas Texas Sandfest
It’s the largest beach-sand sculpture competition in the U.S., drawing thousands of visitors who come to see incredible sand art, enjoy the beach vibes, and have a great time under the sun. It’s truly incredible what kind of art people can create with a bunch of sand. Last time we were in Port Aransas, we tried our hand at sand sculpting and we’re probably a long way away from anything decent, let alone the masterpieces these people create.
Eeyore’s Birthday in Austin
Every third week in April people come together for a unique way to raise money for nonprofit groups by celebrating Eeyore’s Birthday. People dress up in wild costumes, body paint, have drum circles, participate in Maypoles to celebrate spring, and in general celebrate life and Eeyore!
Cleburne’s Antique Alley
Go treasure hunting at the Antique Alley festival in Cleburne where as many as 200 vendors set up to sell all kinds of things they found in their grandmother’s attics that you can take home and give new life to. You never know what kind of incredible finds you might come across.
May
San Marcos Mermaid Festival
The San Marcos Mermaid Festival is a whimsical and colorful event that celebrates the city’s most beloved symbol—the mermaid. This fun-filled festival brings together art, music, and the natural beauty of the San Marcos River. One of the main highlights is the Mermaid Promenade, a lively parade that makes its way through downtown San Marcos.
Restaurants across the city join in the fun, competing to create the most dazzling mermaid-themed cocktails, each boasting plenty of sparkle. It’s a magical gathering that promises joy and wonder for everyone!
Fort Worth Zest Fest
Fort Worth ZestFest is an annual festival dedicated to celebrating spicy, flavorful, and bold cuisine. It’s one of the premier events for fiery food lovers. The festival attracts food enthusiasts from across the country who share a passion for all things spicy, from hot sauces to sizzling barbecue
Ennis Polka Festival
Ennis is rich in Czech culture and so every Memorial weekend they host the National Polka Festival where people from around the country come to this small town to dance, eat, and celebrate the rich Czech culture. Join in as the King and Queen of Polka are crowned, polka the day away at three different dance halls, and enjoy Czech food.
Plano AsiaFest
Plano AsiaFest brings together people from all walks of life to experience the diverse cultures of Asia, right in the heart of Texas! One of the highlights of AsiaFest is the live performances, featuring traditional dances, martial arts demonstrations, music, and even cultural fashion shows.
AsiaFest also features art exhibits and craft stalls where you can see traditional Asian arts, like calligraphy, origami, painting, and intricate handicrafts.
Austin Pecan Street Spring Arts Festival
A free, family-friendly art festival held on historic Sixth Street (formerly Pecan Street) in downtown Austin. The Pecan Street Festival usually takes place during the first weekend of May.
You’ll find over 300 arts and crafts vendors offering everything from beautiful paintings and sculptures to unique handmade jewelry and pottery. As you explore, enjoy delicious food from vendors serving up Austin favorites like tacos, BBQ, and funnel cakes. Don’t miss out on trying some local craft brews too!
Kerrville Folk Festival – Kerrville
A famous folk music festival that runs for 18 days, kicking off in May at the Quiet Valley Ranch. Kerville Folk Festival over 100 songwriters and musicians performing country music on multiple stages. Enjoy the laid-back vibe with campfires and impromptu jam sessions that bring music lovers together.
Explore arts and crafts booths brimming with unique finds, and treat yourself to delicious Texan eats from various food vendors.
June
San Antonio Margarita Festival
The San Antonio Margarita Festival is a lively celebration of one of Texas’s most beloved cocktails, the margarita! This exciting festival features a variety of margarita flavors, from classic lime to creative concoctions like spicy jalapeño, strawberry basil, and mango habanero. It’s an event that caters to both traditionalists and adventurous drinkers looking to try new twists on the classic cocktail.
You can check the event’s website for more info
Blanco Lavender Festival
Check out the beautiful lavender fields and wander through the downtown market full of vendors selling all sorts of lavender lotions, beauty products, artwork, plants, and more. Not to mention all the delicious lavender drinks, cookies, and other delicious items. There is so much to see at the Blanco Lavender Festival.
Viva El Paso!
Viva El Paso actually goes through until August, but every weekend is filled with a performance celebrating four major cultures in the city, Native American, Spanish conquistadors, Mexican and Western American. This unique show brings the story of El Paso to life through music, dance, and dramatic performances, making it a fun and engaging experience for all ages!
The Billy the Kid Festival
All dedicated to the infamous Billy the Kidd. The festival brings the El Paso’s Old West to life with exciting reenactments, including mock shootouts, gun-slinging duels, and characters dressed as cowboys, outlaws, and saloon girls. You’ll see costumed performers reenacting scenes from Billy the Kid’s life, making history both fun and educational.
Irving Canal Festival
With the gondolas along the canals, this place already feels like Italy. However, Irving gets a little more international in the Spring when they celebrate with international cuisine from around the world, global dance like flamenco, Middle Eastern belly dance, Polish folk dance, German Alpine dance, and so much more.
The Irving Canal festival is a great opportunity to experience a diverse range of cultures all in one place!
July
Weatherford Peach Festival
The Weatherford Peach Festival is a juicy, fun-filled celebration of all things peachy! this festival is all about enjoying sweet, locally grown peaches and spending a summer day filled with family-friendly fun. As soon as you arrive, you’ll find peaches everywhere—fresh from local orchards and featured in all sorts of delicious goodies like peach cobbler, peach ice cream, peach pie, and even peach lemonade.
Viva Big Bend Music Festival
The Viva Big Bend Music Festival, a lively event with over 65 shows spread across more than a dozen venues. These venues are located in Alpine, Marfa, Marathon, Terlingua, Presidio, and Fort Davis. This festival is a music lover’s paradise, featuring a fantastic mix of rock, country, blues, folk, and Tejano tunes.
While you’re soaking up the sounds, don’t miss out on the chance to savor some mouth-watering local food and drinks. Many venues serve up classic Texas BBQ, tasty Tex-Mex, and other regional delights. It’s the perfect way to enjoy great music and delicious eats in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere!
MXLAN McAllen
MXLAN (pronounced “Mex-Lan”) is a vibrant three-day summer festival in McAllen, Texas. It usually takes place in late July, turning McAllen into a lively hub of color, music, and delicious food. MXLAN is a foodie’s paradise! You can savor a variety of Mexican street foods, including tacos, elotes, tamales, churros, and refreshing aguas frescas drinks.
Red, White, and Boom Festival in McKinney
Red, White, and Boom Festival is the perfect way to celebrate Independence Day! This fun event is a favorite for locals and visitors, thanks to its amazing fireworks show that lights up the night sky. The festival starts with a parade through Historic Downtown McKinney, filled with colorful floats and plenty of patriotic spirit.
It’s a lively event filled with festive vibes, delicious food, and a spectacular fireworks display to end the day!
August
Galveston Island Wine Festival
The Galveston Island Wine Festival is a delightful celebration of fine wines, delicious food, and coastal vibes. It attracts wine lovers from all over to enjoy wine tastings, gourmet pairings, and a relaxed atmosphere by the beach.
The main highlight of the festival is the wine tastings, with over 100 wines from around the world available to sample. From rich reds and crisp whites to bubbly sparkling wines, there’s plenty to sip and savor.
Grand Prairie Hatch Chile Festival
The Hatch Chile Festival is a spicy, fun-filled event that celebrates the flavorful Hatch chiles from New Mexico! This festival is all about enjoying the smoky, delicious taste of these famous peppers. One of the best parts of the festival is the live chile roasting! You can watch big batches of Hatch chiles being roasted right in front of you, filling the air with a mouthwatering aroma.
Houston Shakespeare Festival
Enjoy a magical evening at the Houston Shakespeare Festival. This cherished event offers free performances of Shakespeare’s timeless plays throughout August. With two different plays rotating each night, you’ll be entertained by a mix of lively comedies and gripping dramas. Bring along your blankets and snacks to relax and enjoy these captivating shows under the stars in an open-air theater setting.
It’s the perfect way to spend a summer night with family and friends
September
Dallas Chocolate Festival
Indulge your sweet tooth at the Dallas Chocolate Festival. A must-visit event for chocolate lovers which is usually held in early September. This delightful festival offers a chocolatey adventure filled with tastings from talented local chocolatiers.
Dive into workshops and watch live demonstrations to see how your favorite chocolate treats are made. From creamy truffles and exquisite bonbons to rich hot chocolate and chocolate-covered goodies, there’s an incredible variety to sample.
Texas State Fair in Dallas
Texas State Fair a much-anticipated annual event that brings joy to all ages! Dive into a world of excitement with thrilling rides that offer a rush of adrenaline. You can also enjoy live music performances that get everyone dancing and singing along. One of the biggest attractions at the fair is the incredible food. Indulge in a variety of fried delicacies and classic fair treats that will make your taste buds dance with delight
Grapevine’s Grapefest
With a city named Grapevine, it’s no surprise to find a festival dedicated to the fruit, and more importantly, the wine that comes from the fruit. For adults, Grapefest festival offers an exciting grape stomp and a vibrant wine pavilion where attendees can indulge in wine tastings, showcasing selections both locally crafted and sourced from around the globe.
There are also children’s activities and carnival rides, making the festival a fun-filled experience for the entire family.
Plano Balloon Festival
This Plano Balloon Festival is famous for its vibrant hot air balloon displays, where dozens of balloons take to the sky at sunrise and sunset. The festival features fireworks, skydiving shows, live entertainment, and food stalls. This creates a lively and colorful atmosphere for all ages.
October
McAllen Fiesta de Palmas
Join the fun at McAllen Fiesta de Palmas, a vibrant multicultural festival that lights up every fall in McAllen, Texas. This lively celebration is all about bringing people together to enjoy the diverse flavors and cultures of the region. One of the festival’s biggest highlights is the incredible food, with countless booths serving up a mouthwatering mix of tastes that are sure to delight everyone.
Don’t miss the “Beer Around the World” experience, where you can sample premium beers paired with delectable bites, giving your taste buds a delightful treat!
Texas Oktoberfest
Oktoberfest is one of the most anticipated events in Texas every October, bringing the traditional German celebration to life with a Lone Star twist. Across various Texas cities, these vibrant festivals are filled with lively music, mouth-watering German cuisine, and plenty of beer! Visitors can enjoy live oompah bands and participate in fun contests like the stein-holding competition.
There are also delicious treats like bratwurst, pretzels, and schnitzel from various food vendors.
Texas Jazz Festival in Corpus Christi
The Jazz festival is free to the community and involves a full weekend of jazz music and concerts for all ages. It includes three different stages, hundreds of unique items sold by vendors, and great food!
Fredericksburg Food and Wine Festival
Fredericksburg is known for its numerous wineries, and the food and wine festival is a fantastic opportunity to explore the local culinary scene. Along with the usual events, there are special dinners and brunches, a cooking school, and an array of food vendors. These vendors showcase delicious local flavors and unique dishes!
Jefferson Bigfoot Conference
Jefferson Bigfoot Conference is a yearly event in Jefferson, Texas, perfect for anyone fascinated by the legendary Bigfoot! This gathering is a haven for enthusiasts and experts who love sharing stories and discoveries about this mysterious creature. The conference features fascinating talks by experts, lively panel discussions, and eye-opening exhibitions about Bigfoot sightings and research.
Dripping Springs Songwriter’s Festival
Dripping Springs Songwriter’s Festival is a cherished annual event that celebrates the incredible talent of both up-and-coming and seasoned songwriters. Set in cozy, intimate venues, this festival offers a unique opportunity to enjoy live performances up-close, creating a truly unforgettable experience.
It’s a chance to hear original songs that might not yet be mainstream hits. Additionally, you can support emerging artists as they share their creativity and passion.
El Paso Borderfolk Festival
The El Paso Borderfolk Festival is a vibrant annual event that celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the border region between the United States and Mexico.
Experience the vibrant music, dance, art, and cuisine that have shaped the identity of El Paso and its surrounding communities. By attending the festival, you are supporting local artists, musicians, and businesses. Purchase handmade items, enjoy delicious food and drinks, and contribute to the economic vitality of the region.
Plano International Festival
Experience hundreds of different cultures and “travel around the world” all in one place the Plano International Festival. People from different countries set up different booths where you can learn about the different cultures in each country. Additionally you can try different regional foods, watch performances, and buy international goods.
San Antonio Day of the Dead Festival
Day of the Dead, or Día de los Muertos, originated in Mexico and Central America thousands of years ago and is a celebration of loved ones who have passed. Since San Antonio is filled with Mexican influence and generations of Mexican Americans, it only makes sense for a San Antonio Day of the Dead Festival.
The whole festival includes ofrendas to loved ones, people dressed up in different regalia, parades, and artwork.
Texas Renaissance Festival in Todd Mission
Step back in time at the Texas Renaissance Festival where you can dress up and wander around the grounds with themed foods and gift shops. There are all types of The Texas Renaissance Festival is a beloved annual event that transports visitors back in time to the medieval era. Enjoy a variety of live performances and interactive activities that will keep you entertained throughout the day.
Discover medieval-inspired clothing, dazzling jewelry, intricate weapons, and charming home decor. It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the magic of the past and take home a special piece of history!
November
Lone Star Film Festival in Fort Worth
The Lone Star Film Festival in Fort Worth is a gathering of great films of all sizes, the chance to socialize with film makers and actors, and a place of fun social events. This festival is one of the largest in Texas
Wurstfest New Braunfels
Wurstfest is a 10-day event that captures the spirit of German Oktoberfest. Even if you haven’t been to Oktoberfest in Germany, you can experience this lively celebration right here in Texas. During the event you will be surrounded by delicious German food, people dressed in lederhosen and dirndls, music, and of course LOTs of beer!
Galveston Lone Star Rally
Lone Star Rally is a thrilling event that attracts bikers from all over the country. This massive rally features live music, an array of vendors, and plenty of opportunities to marvel at custom motorcycles and classic rides. It’s a high-energy weekend filled with camaraderie and excitement, set against the beautiful backdrop of the Texas coast.
December
Discover more holiday cheer by exploring our blogs featuring Christmas activities in exciting Texas cities like Dallas, San Antonio, Houston, and Austin. Dive into the festive spirit and find out all the fun things you can do to celebrate the season! Here are few December festivals you can checkout.
Austin Trail of Lights
This holiday season, Austin transforms Zilker Park into a winter wonderland with over two million sparkling lights, 90+ dazzling displays, and festive activities for all ages. Visitors can stroll along the mile-long trail and enjoy live music from local bands. They can also take photos with Santa and warm up with hot cocoa from various food vendors.
Austin Trail of Lights also includes fun rides, making it a perfect family-friendly event.
Georgetown Christmas Stroll
This three-day festival transforms the historic downtown square into a festive holiday destination with decorations, vendors, and entertainment. The Christmas Stroll includes a light parade, live music, and a Bethlehem Village reenactment. Visitors can browse local shops and food vendors while enjoying the holiday atmosphere. There’s also a special kid zone with activities and rides.
Galveston Dickens on the Strand
Dickens on the Strand is Victorian-themed festival that recreates the charm of Charles Dickens’ era with costumed characters, carolers, and street vendors. Attendees can enjoy performances by Victorian street musicians and indulge in holiday treats from local food vendors. They can also participate in a costume contest.
The event is family-friendly, with special areas for kids featuring face painting, crafts, and games.
FAQs
What are the most popular festivals in Texas?
Some of the most popular Texas festivals include the State Fair of Texas in Dallas, the Texas Renaissance Festival in Todd Mission, and the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.
Do Texas festivals have an entrance fee?
Most festivals have an entrance fee, although it varies. Large festivals have ticket packages, while others like the Texas Renaissance Festival may offer single-day or weekend passes. Some smaller festivals, especially local ones, might be free.
Are pets allowed at Texas festivals?
It varies by festival. Some outdoor festivals are pet-friendly, but always check the event’s website or contact the organizers before bringing your pet
Top Festivals in Texas You Don’t Want to Miss: Final Thoughts
Festivals in Texas offer unforgettable experiences, from lively parades to delicious food festivals that cater to every taste. Whether you’re exploring a bustling city or a small town, each annual festival captures the diverse spirit of Texas.
So, mark your calendar, pack your bags, and get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and flavors that make Texas one of the most exciting places for festival-goers!
Last Updated 2 months ago by Jessica Serna | Published: July 2, 2020
