Texas is known for its big personality, and you can see its larger-than-life spirit in its incredible array of festivals. From rodeos and food festivals to cultural celebrations and extravaganzas, anyone can enjoy something in the Lone Star State.
The culture of Texas, being a large state, is vibrant and diverse, and these festivals can give any visitor or a local a unique glimpse of it. Let’s explore some of the top festivals across the state, each with its own special flavor and charm.
Western Festivals
Experience Texas’s rugged charm and cowboy spirit at these top Western festivals. These events celebrate the state’s deep-rooted Western heritage.
Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo
The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is the largest livestock exhibition and rodeo in the world, held annually during March in Houston, Texas. This three-week-long event features rodeo competitions, concerts from top artists, carnival rides, and various food stalls, making it a must-visit for locals and tourists.
San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo
The San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo is a beloved Texas tradition that combines rodeo events with live music and a sprawling fairground. Held every February, it draws in visitors with its mix of agricultural exhibits, shopping, and family-friendly activities.
Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo
Dating back to 1896, the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo is a historic event that showcases the best of Western heritage. It prides itself on the most authentic Western lifestyle experience anywhere. Visitors can enjoy rodeo performances, livestock shows, and a unique parade through downtown Fort Worth, celebrating the city’s cowboy culture.
National Cowboy Symposium and Celebration
The National Cowboy Symposium and Celebration in Lubbock is a unique festival dedicated to preserving the traditions of the American cowboy. It features cowboy poetry, Western music, chuck wagon cook-offs, and educational seminars. Here, you can explore the history of ranching, pioneer life, and the development of the livestock industry in North America.
German Heritage
Celebrate Texas’ rich German heritage with these lively and festive events. With deep cultural ties stemming from early German settlers, these festivals bring a taste of Germany to the Lone Star State.
Wurstfest
Wurstfest in New Braunfels is a ten-day celebration of German culture and sausage. This lively festival features delicious German food, live music, dancing, and plenty of beer, all set along the scenic Comal River. It’s a fun and festive way to experience a little bit of Germany in Texas.
Oktoberfest
Oktoberfest events pop up in many Texas cities, but the one in Addison is particularly famous. With authentic German food, music, and dancing, this festival gives a taste of the traditional Bavarian celebration with a purely Texan twist. Visitors can enjoy steins of beer, pretzels, and the lively atmosphere of a true Oktoberfest.
Fredericksburg Oktoberfest
Happening every first weekend of October, Fredericksburg Oktoberfest is a family-friendly event that transforms this charming town into a bustling hub of German fun. With polka music, arts and crafts, and a wide array of German food and drink, it’s a great way to enjoy the Texas Hill Country while celebrating German heritage.
Germanfest in Muenster
Germanfest in Muenster is a three-day festival held every April that celebrates the town’s rich German heritage. This festival offers everything from traditional German music and dancing to sausage-making contests and biergartens. It’s a perfect event for anyone looking to immerse themselves in German culture.
Mexican Festivals
Mexican customs heavily influence Texas culture. So, these colorful festivals are a vibrant part of the state’s cultural fabric.
Fiesta San Antonio
Fiesta San Antonio is a vibrant, city-wide celebration that spans over ten days each April. It honors San Antonio’s diverse cultures with over 100 events, including parades, music, food fairs, and a variety of cultural performances. It’s a colorful and lively experience for all ages.
Charro Days Festival
Held in Brownsville, the Charro Days Festival is a week-long event celebrating the friendship between Texas and Mexico. This festival features traditional Mexican rodeo events, parades with elaborate costumes, and a range of cultural performances, creating a festive atmosphere that bridges both cultures.
Cinco de Mayo Celebrations in Various Cities
Cinco de Mayo is celebrated across Texas with festivals, parades, and parties commemorating Mexico’s victory at the Battle of Puebla. Cities like Houston, Dallas, and Austin host lively events featuring Mexican music, dance, food, and family-friendly activities that bring communities together in joyous celebration.
Texas Mexican Independence Day Parade
The Texas Mexican Independence Day Parade, held in cities like Houston and San Antonio, commemorates Mexico’s independence from Spain. These parades feature vibrant floats, traditional Mexican music, and dance and are often accompanied by festivals showcasing Mexican food, crafts, and cultural exhibits.
Film and Music Festivals
Discover a world of creativity and entertainment at Texas’ premier film and music festivals. Known for its dynamic arts scene, Texas hosts some of the country’s most exciting and eclectic festivals.
Austin City Limits (ACL)
Austin City Limits is a renowned music festival held in Austin that features a diverse lineup of artists from various genres. Held every October, ACL transforms the beautiful Zilker Park into a hub of melodies and revelry. It’s one of the most iconic music festivals in the country.
South by Southwest (SXSW)
Another premier event, South by Southwest (SXSW), is a major festival in Austin that combines music, film, and interactive media. Occurring every March, this multifaceted festival attracts artists, filmmakers, and tech enthusiasts worldwide, making it a hub for creative and innovative showcases.
Levitation
Levitation is a music festival in Austin that is famous for its psychedelic rock performances. Founded in 2008 as Austin Psych Fest, it offers an immersive experience with a unique atmosphere, drawing fans of alternative and experimental music.
Houston’s International Jazz Festival
Houston’s International Jazz Festival showcases local and international jazz artists in a series of concerts. Held each July, this festival celebrates jazz music’s rich heritage and offers a platform for both emerging and established musicians.
Dallas International Film Festival
The Dallas International Film Festival features independent and international films, allowing filmmakers to showcase their work. With screenings, panels, and networking events, it’s an excellent venue for movie enthusiasts and industry professionals. It draws cinephiles to the city every April.
Kerrville Folk Festival
The Kerrville Folk Festival is a long-running folk music festival in Kerrville. It celebrates singer-songwriters and acoustic music. Over its 18-day run, attendees can enjoy performances, workshops, and the welcoming community atmosphere that defines the festival. Every year, this festival draws around 30,000 visitors.
Tejano Music Awards Fan Fair
The Tejano Music Awards Fan Fair celebrates Tejano music with live performances and fan events in San Antonio. This festival draws large crowds with its lineup of Tejano stars and offers fans a great opportunity to connect with their favorite artists.
Marfa Film Festival
The Marfa Film Festival is an intimate event highlighting unique and independent films in the artsy town of Marfa. Known for its eclectic selection and stunning desert backdrop, it provides a distinctive cinematic experience.
Old Settler’s Music Festival
Old Settler’s Music Festival is a roots music festival featuring folk, bluegrass, and Americana artists. Held in the Texas Hill Country, this festival offers a laid-back vibe with camping, workshops, and performances that highlight the best in traditional and contemporary roots music.
Free Press Summer Fest
Free Press Summer Fest is an annual, two-day, Houston-based music festival featuring diverse genres and various performances. With big-name headliners and local talent, this festival brings a vibrant mix of music to the city’s downtown area each summer.
Food Celebrations
If you came to Texas for the delicious food, indulge in these food festivals to get a taste of their rich culinary traditions.
Texas Monthly BBQ Fest
Held annually since 2010, Texas Monthly BBQ Fest is the state’s premier barbeque celebration, bringing together some of the best pitmasters from across the state to showcase their mouth-watering creations. Visitors can get to taste offerings from top-rated barbecue joints featured in Texas Monthly‘s famous list of the best BBQ in Texas.
Poteet Strawberry Festival
The Poteet Strawberry Festival, held annually in Poteet, celebrates the region’s rich strawberry harvest with a weekend full of family-friendly activities. Visitors can enjoy strawberry-themed foods, live music, a rodeo, and even a carnival, making it a sweet treat for all ages.
Houston Kosher Chili Cookoff
The Houston Kosher Chili Cookoff is a unique culinary competition where teams prepare delicious chili in accordance with kosher dietary laws. Thousands of participants and visitors come here to celebrate the city’s huge Jewish community with a fun day of tasting, music, and family fun, all while supporting local charities.
Texas Crab Festival
The Texas Crab Festival in Crystal Beach is a seafood lover’s paradise. It features fresh crab dishes, live music, and coastal-themed activities. This fun-filled weekend also includes a crab cook-off, carnival rides, and arts and crafts, making it a perfect beachside getaway.
Dripping Springs Founders Day Festival
The Dripping Springs Founders Day Festival celebrates the founding of this charming Hill Country town with a three-day event. Featuring a barbecue cook-off, live music, parades, and various family activities, it’s a great way to experience local hospitality and flavors.
Chappell Hill Bluebonnet Festival
The Chappell Hill Bluebonnet Festival combines the beauty of Texas bluebonnets with delicious food and fun activities. Held in the spring, this festival features local food vendors, arts and crafts, live music, and a picturesque setting perfect for a family outing.
Fredericksburg Food and Wine Fest
The Fredericksburg Food and Wine Fest is a celebration of Texas wines and regional cuisine, set in the heart of the Texas Hill Country. This one-day event offers wine tastings, cooking demonstrations, and gourmet food from local chefs, making it a must-visit for food and wine enthusiasts.
Visual Arts and Craft Festivals
Houston Art Car Parade
The Houston Art Car Parade is a vibrant and whimsical event where creatively decorated vehicles take over the streets of Houston. Artists and enthusiasts transform cars, bikes, and other vehicles into moving works of art, making this parade a must-see for its quirky and imaginative displays.
Main Street Fort Worth Arts Festival
The Main Street Fort Worth Arts Festival is one of the largest and most prestigious arts festivals in Texas, showcasing a diverse range of artwork from local and national artists. Visitors can enjoy live music, delicious food, and interactive art activities, all set along Fort Worth’s bustling Main Street.
Animefest
Animefest in Dallas is a popular convention celebrating Japanese animation and culture. Fans of anime, manga, and cosplay gather for a weekend of screenings, panels, artist alleys, and costume contests, creating a lively and inclusive atmosphere for enthusiasts of all ages.
Texas Arts and Crafts Fair in Kerrville
The Texas Arts and Crafts Fair in Kerrville is a beloved annual event that highlights the work of Texas artisans. Attendees can browse and purchase unique handmade items, enjoy live demonstrations, and participate in hands-on workshops, all while soaking in the scenic Hill Country backdrop.
Bayou City Art Festival in Houston
The Bayou City Art Festival in Houston is a premier outdoor fine arts festival that takes place twice a year, in the spring and fall. With hundreds of artists displaying their work, live entertainment, and food vendors, it’s a beautiful way to experience the vibrant Houston arts scene.
Blue Genie Art Bazaar in Austin
The Blue Genie Art Bazaar in Austin is a holiday shopping event featuring a wide range of handmade arts and crafts from local artists. Open for several weeks during the holiday season, it offers a relaxed and festive atmosphere where visitors can find unique gifts and support local artisans.
Cultural Festivals
Celebrate the diverse cultures of Texas at these engaging and vibrant cultural festivals. Reflecting the state’s melting pot of influences, these festivals offer a glimpse into the varied traditions that make Texas unique.
Texas Folklife Festival
The Texas Folklife Festival in San Antonio is a vibrant celebration of the state’s diverse cultural heritage. This three-day event features traditional music, dance, food, and crafts from over 40 ethnic groups, offering attendees a rich and immersive cultural experience. It features experts and artists who share the traditions, skills, and arts and crafts of Texans from the 1800s to the early 1900s.
Independence Day Celebrations
Independence Day Celebrations in Texas are marked by grand fireworks displays, parades, and community events across the state. Cities like Austin, Houston, and Dallas host spectacular shows and festivities, bringing communities together to celebrate American freedom and patriotism.
Scarborough Renaissance Festival
The Scarborough Renaissance Festival in Waxahachie transports visitors back to the 16th century with its lively recreation of an English village. From jousting tournaments and period music to artisan shops and hearty food, it’s a fun and educational outing for the whole family.
Japanese Festival of Houston
The Japanese Festival of Houston, held in Hermann Park, is a beautiful celebration of Japanese culture and traditions. Attendees can enjoy authentic Japanese food, traditional performances, martial arts demonstrations, and tea ceremonies, all set amidst the serene Japanese Garden.
Texas Scottish Festival and Highland Games
The Texas Scottish Festival and Highland Games in Decatur is a dynamic celebration of Scottish heritage. This festival features traditional Scottish music, dance, athletic competitions like caber tossing, and plenty of Scottish food and drink, offering a spirited experience for all ages.
Dallas Greek Festival
The Dallas Greek Festival, hosted by the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, showcases Greek culture. Visitors can indulge in delicious Greek cuisine, enjoy folk dancing and music, and explore a marketplace full of authentic Greek goods and crafts.
Caribbean Festival Houston
The Caribbean Festival in Houston, also known as Houston Carnival, is a vibrant and colorful celebration of Caribbean culture. Featuring a parade with elaborate costumes, live music, dance performances, and authentic Caribbean cuisine, this festival brings the energy and spirit of the islands to Texas.
Entertainment Festivals
Enjoy a wide range of entertainment at these exciting Texas festivals, from comedy to holiday bazaars. These events capture the fun-loving spirit of Texans and provide something for everyone.
The State Fair of Texas
The State Fair of Texas, held annually in Dallas, is the largest state fair in the U.S. It features a dazzling array of attractions, including thrilling rides, livestock shows, live music, and the iconic Big Tex statue, along with a wide variety of delicious fair foods.
Out of Bounds Comedy Festival
The Out of Bounds Comedy Festival in Austin is a week-long celebration of comedy in all its forms. Featuring stand-up, improv, and sketch performances from comedians across the country, it’s a laugh-filled event that showcases the best in comedic talent.
Texas Renaissance Festival
The Texas Renaissance Festival in Todd Mission is the nation’s largest Renaissance fair, offering an immersive experience into a 16th-century European village. Visitors can enjoy jousting tournaments, live entertainment, artisan crafts, and period-inspired food and drink in a magical, wooded setting.
Fantastic Fest in Austin
Fantastic Fest in Austin is the largest genre film festival in the U.S., specializing in horror, fantasy, sci-fi, and action movies. Known for its eclectic and often edgy selection of films, it attracts filmmakers and fans worldwide for a week of screenings and special events.
Armadillo Christmas Bazaar in Austin
The Armadillo Christmas Bazaar in Austin is a unique holiday shopping event featuring live music and a wide array of handmade gifts. Held in December, it combines a festive atmosphere with the work of local artists and craftspeople, making it a perfect spot for finding special holiday presents.
Conclusion
No matter your interests, Texas has a festival that will capture your imagination and leave you with unforgettable memories. From the wild rides at the State Fair to the melodic tunes at Austin City Limits and the rich cultural experiences at the Texas Folklife Festival, there’s always something exciting happening in Texas. So grab your calendar, mark the festival dates, and get ready to experience the best festivals Texas has to offer.
