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Although summer is full of fascinating activities, shoulder seasons also have something to offer. That's why periods March to May and September to November are the best time to visit Texas. The reason is mostly mild and comfortable weather. Enjoy the spring marvellous flower blooming and events like Fiesta San Antonio. June through August you can enjoy some beach time and watch animals such as bats, racoons, and armadillos; also, keep in mind the high room rates. Time from September through November promises fewer tourists and lots of fun at events like Austin City Limits Music Festival and State Fair of Texas. Winter in Texas is a good time for budget travel but you can't go wrong if you bring a warm jacket with you.

176 things to do in Texas

Thunderstorm Season

April–September Weather

Hot fronts during warm time of the year are followed by thunderstorms that occur on 3-5 day periods

Autumn

September, October, November Weather

A mild and nice season without weather extremes

Spring

March, April, May Weather

Tornado and thunderstorms are in full swing

Summer

June, July, August Weather

Hail storms, wind storms, extreme heat, fires, and hurricanes can occur in Texas

Winter

December, January, February Weather

Texas is a state of weather extremes. Cold waves and snow can occur at some parts of the state

Barton Springs Pool

November–February (all year round, closed Thursdays) Activity

Have a relaxing dip in a large spring-fed pool in Austin

Birdwatching

April Nature

Find some unique and magnificent bird species, and enjoy the diverse nature of Texas

Armadillo (Dasypodidae)

April–October Nature

These cute creatures in strong armor continue moving to the North

Azalea Bloom in Tyler

mid-March–mid-April Nature

Bright colours and the sweet aroma of spring welcomes everyone in the beautiful East Texas city of Tyler

Strawberry Season

late February–early May Food

There is no such thing as too many strawberries, especially during the Strawberry Festival

Snake Season

March–May Nature

Snakes have been an object of fascination, fear, and suspicion since ancient times

SXSW Music Festival in Austin

March 7-15, 2025 Event

Visit one of the biggest music, film, and interactive media festivals in the world, attended by 300,000 people every year

Rafting the Rio Grande

March–May Activity

Check out this unforgettable rafting experience through the stunning varied lanscape of Texas. You can't imagine a more exciting vacation!

Tornado Season

March–August Weather

Beware of this dangerous weather. For the majority of people, it's a reason to stay away, but a great experience for the thrill seekers​

Hotter’N Hell Hundred

August 22–25, 2024 Event

Spend the best weekend on two wheels imaginable

Bat Watching

March–October Nature

Millions of little flying mammals await dusk to fly out of their summer homes in search of food

Lone Star Rally

October 31-November 3, 2024 Event

Check out the coolest motorcycle rally and high skill showcases during the weekend-long festival of motorcycle culture in Galveston

River Tubing

June–August Activity

When there is too much sun, cool down with a pleasant ride down the river

St. Patrick's Day

March 16–17, 2024 Event

Become Irish for a day during the celebrations of St. Patrick's Day all over Texas

Cadillac Ranch

September–May Activity

Anyone with a can of spray paint can come and leave a short message or paint on these cars. This is the best place to write "I was here!"​

Round Rock Chalk Walk and Arts Festival

October 4–6, 2024 Event

Check out amazing artworks created just with a piece of chalk. This friendly festival welcomes whole families to take part or just to enjoy the event​

Texas Independence Day

March 2 Event

The best time to feel the atmosphere of the Lone Star State, witness legendary Texan patriotism, and enjoy celebrations all over the state

Austin Celtic Festival

November 2–3, 2024 Event

Grab a checkered skirt and head for the Celtic Festival—tradition and lots of fun for the whole family

Sometimes Islands

May–October Nature

The Sometimes Islands are a part of the Lake Travis area. They come up and submerge whenever mother nature decides!

Kayaking and Canoeing

January–August Activity

Take a day trip on a kayak or canoe and enjoy the sound of the water and peaceful paddling on one of the thousands of scenic trails

Bluebonnets

late February–April (best in early-to-mid April) Nature

Don't miss the blooming of the state flower of Texas

Alligators

April–June | September–November Nature

Don't miss a chance to see these beautiful and ancient huge reptiles

Texas SandFest in Port Aransas

April 19-21, 2024 Event

One of the largest beach festivals in Texas welcomes everyone to get dirty and play in the sand and create beautiful sculptures

Willie Nelson's Fourth of July Picnic

July 4 Event

A popular way to celebrate America's Independence Day with good music, famous performers, and a relaxed atmosphere

Hiking to Guadalupe Peak

September–May Activity

Enjoy the best views from the highest mountain in Texas

Rodeo

mid-January–August Activity

An undeniable part of Texas culture. Don't miss the Rodeo season and enjoy some original shows

Beach Season

May–September Activity

Summer time gathers everyone on the best beaches full of sun, waves, water activities, and great parties

Marfa Lights

November–April Nature

One of the most mysterious things you may see in Texas

SXSW Film Festival

March 8-16, 2024 Event

The best film festival in Texas and one of the best in the world

Charro Days

February 29–March 2, 2024 Event

A unique bi-national event celebrated between the two neighbouring cities of Brownsville and Matamoros

Día de Los Muertos

October 31–November 1 Event

This colourful celebration is prepared especially for the immortal souls that come down to earth to join the living on this spec​ial day

Hog Hunting

all year round (mid-January–March) Activity

Texans love to hunt, and local regulations are not so strict

Raccoon

March–November Nature

These curious small creatures can quietly accompany you during an evening camping trip

Watermelon

April–early September Food

There is nothing better than a cool slice of watermelon during hot summer Texas days

Kerrville Folk Festival

October 10–13, 2024 Event

Become a part of the 18-day summer music camp full of concerts, activities, and workshops, together with thousands of others who can't imagine their life without music

Rock Climbing

July–April Activity

Amazing views, huge rocks, wild nature, and challenging routes for climbers of all levels

Lizards

March–May Nature

A unique resident of Texas, quite different and interesting to observe. One of them has even become a state symbol

Peach Season

May–August Food

Yummy, tasty, fresh peaches are ready to be picked

Lavender Trails

May–June Nature

Smell the healing aroma while walking in the fields of lavender in the Texas Hill Country

Biking

March–May | September–November Activity

The diverse terrains of the Lone Star State offer some of the best cycling vacations

Cicada Mania

May–mid-June Nature

A billionth population of American cicadas come out during final weeks in their lives to rejoice in a huge mating par

Horseback Riding

April–June | September–November Activity

Feel like a cowboy from a western movie. Be free and enjoy your ride

Houston Art Car Experience

April 11–14, 2024 Event

You never know how far the imagination can go ​unless you visit the Art Car Parade & other vehicle events in Houston

Shrimp Season

July–November Food

Check out the opening​ ceremony of a shrimp festival and enjoy the traditions and delicious seafood

State Fair of Texas

September 27-October 20, 2024 Event

Visit one of the largest and longest-running fairs in Texas

Mardi Gras! Galveston​

February 2–13, 2024 Event

A big celebration before Lent bring lots of color and glitter to Texas

Big Bertha

September–November Event

While visiting a football game, you can see and hear the biggest drum in the world supporting its team

Texas Ranch Roundup

July 19–20, 2024 Event

Want to feel the taste of real Texas ranch life? Visit the Texas Ranch Roundup and find out for yourself

Pecan Pie

October–December Food

Try the best pie you have ever eaten on your trip to Texas

Natural Pools and Springs​

May–September Nature

Spend hot summer days in a natural water reservoir—some of them are beautiful natural creations, others are thrilling mysterious places, but all of them will bring you fresh and cool delight

Hiking

March–May | September–November Activity

The stunning beauty and natural diversity of this state are amazing. Just choose the best trail for you!

Fiesta San Antonio

April 24–May 4, 2025 Event

A huge Fiesta, lasting for​ 10 days, is a celebration of the rich and diverse cultures of San Antonio

Austin City Limits Music Festival (ACL)

October 4–6 | October 11–13, 2024 Event

A world-class festival which gathers hundreds of thousands of people to enjoy music and entertainment

Caves

May–September Activity

Escape the summer heat in one of these stunning caves. Beware of the bats and be ready to explore something new with every step

Texas Renaissance Festival

October 12–December 1, 2024 (weekends and Thanksgiving Friday) Event

Nation’s largest Renaissance theme park full of 16th-century magic

Texas Book Festival

November 16-17, 2024 Event

This book fair will inspire you to read again

Japan Festival Houston

May 6–7, 2023 Event

Immerse in Japanese culture every spring in downtown Houston

Texas Craft Brewers Festival

November 16, 2024 Event

The best occasion to taste Texan craft beers

North Texas Irish Festival

March 1-3, 2024 Event

In the name of performance and study of Celtic music and dance in the Southwest

Texas Pinball Festival

March 21-23, 2025 Event

Do you feel empowered enough to beat the world's best pinball players? This is your chance to walk out as a superstar!

Great Texas Balloon Race

June 14-16, 2024 Event

All eyes will be pointed into the sky during this unique race

Houston Christmas Lights

mid-November–early January Event

Magical winter lights transform Houston at night

Drive Through Christmas Light Parks

mid-November–early January Event

A traditional Texan entertainment during the holiday season

Enchant Christmas

November 2023–January 2024 Event

Possibly the world’s largest Christmas Light Maze

Fort Worth Parade of Lights

November 24, 2024 Event

A signature holiday event in the city brings fun and entertainment

Hidalgo Festival of Lights

December 1, 2023–January 1, 2024 Event

The largest Christmas light display in Texas

Wonderland of Lights

late November–late December 2024 (selected dates) Event

Millions of lights illuminate the Harrison County Courthouse when downtown Marshall turns into a Winter Wonderland

Ford Holiday River Parade

November 29, 2024 Event

A picturesque river walk in San Antonio is a must-see during the holidays

Grapevine Parade of Lights

December 5, 2024 Event

The largest illuminated Christmas parade in North Texas

Sculpture Falls

mid-May–September Activity

A hidden picture-perfect swimming hole

Cherry Blossom

late March–early April Nature

Check out the most scenic places to welcome spring at the Lone Star State

Texas Scottish Festival & Highland Games

May 4, 2024 Event

A celebration of the rich and glorious Scottish cultural heritage

ABC Zilker Kite Festival

April 14, 2024 Event

The longest running kite festival in the country

Taste of Dallas

February 11, 2023 Event

The favorite summertime food festival in the city

Texas Rose Festival

October 17–20, 2024 Event

Visit competitions and parades in the rose capital of America

Austin Reggae Festival

April 19-21, 2024 Event

Meet the arrival of spring with good music vibes at one of Austin's best downtown parks

Greek Food Festival of Dallas

November 1-3, 2024 Event

Three days of Greek music, dance and wonderful food

Alamo City Comic Con

May 3–5, 2024 Event

One of the largest events of this kind in the United States

Texas Rice Festival

October 2–5, 2024 Event

A celebration of rice harvest in Winnie, Texas

Fredericksburg Oktoberfest

October 4-6, 2024 Event

The largest celebration in the polka capital of Texas

Chevron Houston Marathon

January 14 Event

The largest single day athletic event in Houston

Poteet Strawberry Festival

April 12-14, 2024 Event

The biggest annual celebration in the strawberry capital of Texas

Austin Pride

August 10, 2024 Event

Dress in rainbow colors for one of the largest Pride Parades in Texas

Texas Relays in Austin

March 27–30, 2024 Event

A historical competition is among most popular track and field events in the U.S.

Halloween Events in Texas

September–October Event

The biggest seasonal events in Austin, San Antonio, Houston, and Dallas

Plano Balloon Festival

September 19-22, 2024 Event

A fun weekend event in the balloon capital of Texas

Mardi Gras in Dallas

March 1, 2025 Event

A large celebration with the parade, cajun food, and music

YMBL South Texas State Fair

March 21-31, 2024 Event

Take a break from your diet and enjoy the best deep-fried food at this annual state fair in Beaumont

East Texas State Fair

September 20–29, 2024 Event

A quality family-oriented experience in Tyler

Houston 4th of July Events & Fireworks

July 4 Event

A day full of music, family fun, parades, and fireworks

San Antonio 4th of July Events & Fireworks

July 4–July 7 Event

Woodlawn Lake Park hosts the largest Independence Day event in San Antonio, but the city offers lots of other entertainment

Austin 4th of July Events and Fireworks

July 4 Event

Austin marks Independence Day with a big bang and lots of music

Dallas–Fort Worth 4th of July Events and Fireworks

July 4 Event

Enjoy spectacular fireworks shows, open-air events, and kids activities in the Dallas–Fort Worth area

Galveston 4th of July

July 4, 2024 Event

Residents of the Galveston are true connoisseurs of celebrating the Independence Day

Georgetown Hot Air Balloon Festival & Polo Match

September 4, 2021 Event

One of the most exciting ballooning events in Central Texas

Houston Hot Air Balloon Festival & Polo Match

May 14–15, 2021 Event

One of the prominent social networking events in Houston

Fredericksburg Hot Air Balloon Festival

February 10, 2024 | May 4, 2024 Event

Balloons and polo are among the favorites at the huge networking and social event

Skylight Balloon Fest

September 27-28, 2024 Event

Relish these three days full of activities, vendors, and, of course, the balloons!

Labor Day Weekend in Dallas

August 30–September 1, 2024 Event

A weekend full of fun events wraps up the summer season in Dallas

Texas Fall Colors

mid-October–mid-December Nature

Celebrate the change of seasons by visiting the most scenic spots in The Lone Star State

River Walk Christmas Lights

November 30, 2024–January 5, 2025 Event

A true sight for sore eyes!

San Antonio Christmas Lights

mid-November–early January Event

See the River Walk, SeaWorld, the zoo, and the city's other attractions aglow

Dallas Arboretum: 12 Days of Christmas

November 15, 2024–January 5, 2025 Event

The holiday exhibit that brings in magic, light, and festive spirit

Austin Christmas Lights

mid-November–early January Event

Enjoy some holiday magic in the capital of Texas

New Year's Eve in Houston

December 31 Event

Welcome a new chapter of your life with a party in Space City

New Year's Eve in San Antonio

December 31 Event

San Antonio welcomes the New Year with parties, fireworks, and plenty of entertainment

New Year's Eve in Dallas and Fort Worth

December 31 Event

Ring in the New Year with Texas-size fireworks and parties

New Year's Eve in Austin

December 31 Event

Ring in the New Year with country music and fireworks

Chinese New Year in San Antonio

January 29, 2025 Event

Large floats with lanterns on the River Walk and lots of cultural activities across the city

Tarantula Migration

May–early October Nature

Native Texas spiders leave their burrows en masse in search for females

Hummingbird Migration

September 14–17, 2023 Nature

Track the world's tiniest bird passing over the Lone Star State

Monarch Butterfly Migration

September–October, March Nature

Watch thousands of butterflies in the parks and gardens of The Lone Star State

Baltimore Oriole

April–September Nature

Attracted by fruits and nectar, these birds are often spotted in the gardens

Dallas Blooms

February 24–April 8, 2024 Nature

The largest spring flowers festival of the Southwest takes place at Dallas Arboretum

Wildflowers

late February–October | best April Nature

Every spring, Texas countryside gets transformed with yellow, blue, purple, and red blooms

Mexican Gold Poppies

late January–early April | best March Nature

The sea of gold covers Franklin Mountains every spring

Blooming Cactuses

April–early June Nature

The arid scenery of West Texas comes alive with unexpectedly colorful blooms

Red Poppies

mid-March–late April Nature

Visit the beautiful red poppy capital of Texas

Sunflowers

May–June Nature

Add sunshine to your life by visiting a sunflower field in Texas

Ennis Bluebonnet Trails Festival

April 19-21, 2024 Event

A good reason to go crazy over bluebonnets during one spring weekend

Sandhill Cranes

late October–February Nature

The Texas Gulf Coast hosts thousands of sandhill cranes over winter months

Chappell Hill Bluebonnet Festival

April 13-14, 2024 Event

One of the best small-town festivals in Texas

Waterfalls

all year round | best May–September Nature

Hot summer days in Austin would be unbearable without refreshing waterfalls and swimming holes

Gorman Falls

all year round | April–mid-September Nature

A wide, misty waterfall will make you feel like you are somwhere tropical

El Paso Christmas Lights

late November–early January Event

From downtown to parks and residential neighborhoods, El Paso shimmers with lights in December

Wings Over Houston Airshow

October 26–27, 2024 Event

A stunning air display featuring vintage World War II aircraft and modern aviation

Wings Over South Texas

won't take place in 2024 Event

This air show offers you an amazing experience you will never forget

Big Texas Comicon in San Antonio

October 11-13, 2024 Event

A perfect occasion to dress up, get close to your fav celebs, and shop at the best vendors in South Texas

Houston Comicpalooza

May 24–26, 2024 Event

One of the largest comic cons in southern United States

El Paso Comic Con

April 12-14, 2024 Event

The best entertainment convention in West Texas

Greater Austin Comic Con

July 20–21, 2024 Event

A fan convention in Texas with some serious Austin vibes

Stargazing

all year round (best from May to September) Nature

You can enjoy stargazing in Texas all year round; however, the best time is during the warm season, from May to September

South Texas Comic Con

April 26-28, 2024 Event

Have a blast celebrating today's fandoms at a three-day comic convention

Corpus Christi Comic Con

July 26-28, 2024 Event

Premier comic book convention in Texas Gulf Coast

Addison Oktoberfest

September 19-22, 2024 Event

A Bavarian beer festival with a Texan twist

Main Street Grapevine Brew Fest

May 17-19, 2024 Event

This festival is the ultimate beer & wine event

Lewisville 4th of July Fireworks & Events

July 2–4, 2024 Event

Lewisville welcomes everyone on the 4th of July

Coppell 4th of July Parade & Fireworks

June 29–July 4, 2024 Event

Feel the spirit of freedom at these Independence Day celebrations

Duncanville 4th of July Fireworks, Events & Parade

July 3–4, 2024 Event

A community celebration southwest of Dallas

Hurst 4th of July Firework Shows & Events

June 28–July 3, 2024 Event

Visit a traditoinal Indepedence Day celebration and become a part of the community

Mansfield Rocks 4th of July Celebration

June 28–29, 2024 | July 3, 2024 Event

Mansfield Rocks is a great 4th of July celebration in Mansfield

Georgetown 4th of July Fireworks, Shows, Events & Parades

July 4 Event

Fireworks and community festivities in Central Texas

Burleson Fireworks 4th of July

July 4 Event

Burleson welcomes you on the 4th of July

Celina 4th of July Splash and Blast Fireworks

June 29, 2024 Event

Bring your loved ones to this amazing Independence Day celebration

Sombrero Fest

February 29-March 2, 2024 Event

Rejoice in this three-day extravaganza in Brownsville, Texas

Thanksgiving Day Parade

November 23, 2023 Event

One of the oldest Thanksgiving Day parades in the US

Canadian Fall Foliage Festival

October 19–20, 2024 Event

Beautiful nature and plenty of events during a fun weekend

Nacogdoches Christmas Parade

December 2, 2023 Event

The largest lighted Christmas parade in East Texas

Festival Of Lights Lake Jackson

November 22–23, 2024 Event

A free family-friendly festival in the Greater Houston metropolitan area

Tomball German Festival

December 8–10, 2023 Event

Tomball German Festival and Christmas Market features lots of entertainment and unique goods for the whole family

Granbury Harvest Moon Festival of the Arts

October 26-27, 2024 Event

Join thousands of people in this authentic arts festival!

Balloons Over Horseshoe Bay Resort

March 29-31, 2024 Event

Save the date for this beautiful hot air balloon festival!

Dyess Big Country Air Fest

May 4, 2024 Event

Exciting aerobatic displays and family-friendly entertainment

Rose City Airfest

October 5, 2024 Event

A new aviation gathering in East Texas

Thunder Over Cedar Creek Lake Airshow

July 6, 2024 Event

Pay tribute to the nation's aviation heroes and witness a spectacular showcase of aircraft at this air show

Corsicana Airsho

October 12, 2024 Event

Experience a variety of jets at the "best little airshow in Texas"

Sherwood Forest Faire

March 2–April 21, 2024 (weekends) Event

Over 150 amazing shows every day of the fair

Scarborough Renaissance Festival

April 6-May 27, 2024 (weekends and Memorial Day Monday) Event

Get a glimpse into the medieval world

Denton Arts & Jazz Festival

October 4-6, 2024 Event

A free community celebration, offering a whirlwind of jazz performances, fine arts, and savory foods

Fort Worth Music Festival & Conference

early March Event

A new music networking festival and conference in North Texas

Parker County Peach Festival

July 13, 2024 Event

A delicious celebration in Weatherford, Texas

Katy Rice Festival & Parade

October 12–13, 2024 Event

A weekend of food, music, and live entertainment 30 miles (48 km) west of Houston

Avalon Faire

April 6–May 5, 2024 Event

Take a glimpse into a Medieval wonderland tucked in Kilgore, TX

Houston Memorial Day Weekend

May 25–27, 2024 Event

An array of events and fun activities for every age and taste

Austin Memorial Day Weekend Events

May 23-26, 2024 Event

Memorial Day Weekend is a great opportunity to spend time with friends and family attending exciting events

Fredericksburg Memorial Day Weekend Events

May 24–26, 2024 Event

Festival, art show and museum events

San Antonio Memorial Day Weekend Parade & Events

May 24–27, 2024 Event

Celebrate Memorial Day with a twist in San Antonio!

Arlington Memorial Day Weekend Events

May 26, 2024 Event

The vibrant Texan city offers a range of enjoyable activities for your final weekend before summer

Cottonwood Art Festival

October 5–6, 2024 Event

One of the largest art shows in the country

GrapeFest

September 12–15, 2024 Event

Explore all the intricacies of Texan wine culture in the historic Grapevine

Austin Food & Wine Festival

November 1–3, 2024 Event

A heaven of wine, BBQ, and delectable spirits right in the heart of Texas

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