Texas Rice Festival 2024

The Texas Rice Festival celebrates rice harvest every first weekend of October at the Winnie-Stowell Park in Winnie, Southeast Texas (about an hour away from Houston). Since 1969, the festival has been honoring and promoting rice farming as a major economic contributor in the region. Visitors come from all over Texas to enjoy food from various vendors, entertainment, and activities for the whole family.

Schedule of Events

The Rice Festival program spans several weekends, kicking off with various events leading up to the main festival dates. It begins with an Open Horse Show on September 14 at the Lilton Sonnier Arena. Following that, the TRF Golf Classic is scheduled for September 20 at Brentwood Country Club in Beaumont, Texas. The excitement continues with the BBQ Cookoff on September 27-28 at Winnie-Stowell Park, leading into the Livestock Show, which takes place on October 4-5.

Main Fest Activities

Attendees can immerse themselves in a variety of contests, including everything from a thrilling cornhole tournament and a unique Diaper Derby to the skillful Rice Cooking and Rice Judging competitions. For those looking to showcase their creativity, there are categories for art and photography, alongside contests for posters and even a Golf Classic. The festival features engaging exhibits and shows that highlight local talent and heritage, such as the Antique Car Show, Gospel Jubilee, Livestock Show, and an Open Horse Show. Attendees can also explore the Photography and Art Exhibit and gain insights at the Rice Education Exhibit.

Pageants & Parades

The pageantry is a highlight of the festival, with events honoring participants of all ages, including Little Rice Tot, Little Rice King, Miss LaPetite, Little Rice Sweetheart, Junior Queen, and Senior Queen. Adding to the excitement are two festive parades, the Youth Day Parade and the Grand Parade, which showcase the community's pride and spirit.

Tickets & Parking

Admission is free for kids aged five and under, while students aged 6 to 18 can attend for just $5. Adults can enjoy all the festivities for $15, and seniors aged 65 and older also enter for free. Plus, there’s free parking available for all attendees. For those looking to enjoy the carnival, on Wednesday and Thursday, wristbands are $30, and the carnival opens at 5 pm. For Friday and Saturday, the price increases to $40, with the carnival opening at 10 am.