Top 25 Texas Festivals in 2025: Date, Location, Activities, Tickets, and Advice

Overview of Texas Festivals in 2025

Texas is a state rich in history, cultural diversity, and a lively festival scene that offers visitors an authentic taste of the Lone Star State’s unique heritage. In 2025, Texas hosts a range of festivals across music, food, art, history, and cultural themes, showcasing the vibrant Texan spirit.

From the famous South by Southwest (SXSW) in Austin, combining music, film, and technology, to Fiesta San Antonio, celebrating the city’s multicultural history, Texas festivals reflect the state’s blend of old traditions and modern creativity. Texas Renaissance Festival transports attendees back in time with Renaissance-themed entertainment, while the Texas Book Festival and Texas State Fair in Dallas draw visitors with literary events and classic fair attractions, such as rodeo competitions and mouthwatering Texan cuisine. Each of these festivals offers a unique glimpse into Texan life, making the state a year-round destination for those seeking a lively and culturally rich experience.

Learn more: List of Texas's Unique State Holidays: Significance and Celebration

Texas's most iconic festivals, with snippets of a rodeo scene, chili cook-off, Renaissance fair, and parade. Image: KnowInsiders.com

Complete Guide to Festivals in Texas 2025: A Year-Round Celebration

Texas is home to a rich tapestry of festivals that celebrate its unique blend of history, culture, food, music, and art. From iconic events like SXSW in Austin to the historic Fiesta San Antonio, 2025 is packed with opportunities to explore the Lone Star State’s diverse festival scene. This guide will take you through the major festivals happening in Texas throughout the year.

January

1. Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo

• Date: January 12 - February 3, 2025
• Location: Fort Worth, Texas
• Overview: This 23-day event is one of Texas's oldest festivals, featuring livestock shows, rodeo competitions, and Western-themed events that celebrate Texas’s cowboy culture.
• How to Get There: Fly into Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and take a 30-minute drive to Fort Worth.
• Tickets: Tickets range from $30-$60 for rodeo events, with general admission available for non-rodeo activities.
• Advice: Wear comfortable boots for walking through the grounds, and don’t miss the daily cattle drive reenactments.

February

2. Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

• Date: February 25 - March 16, 2025
• Location: NRG Park, Houston, Texas
• Overview: Known as the largest livestock exhibition and rodeo in the world, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is a cornerstone of Texan culture. The event features professional rodeo competitions, livestock auctions, carnival rides, a world-class barbecue contest, and nightly concerts by top musical acts.
• How to Get There: Fly into George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) or William P. Hobby Airport (HOU). NRG Park is easily accessible by car or METRORail.
• Tickets: General admission starts at $20, with separate tickets required for rodeo events and concerts. Carnival ride passes are available for purchase.
• Advice: Wear comfortable boots and prepare for a full day of activities. Arrive early for the livestock exhibitions and stick around for the nightly concerts featuring country music stars and popular artists. Don’t miss the famous championship barbecue contest at the start of the event.

March

3. South by Southwest (SXSW)

• Date: March 7-16, 2025
• Location: Austin, Texas
• Overview: SXSW is a globally renowned festival blending music, film, and interactive media. With showcases of tech innovation, indie films, and performances by top musical acts, it’s a must-attend for creatives and innovators.
• How to Get There: Fly into Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS). Downtown Austin is easily accessible by rideshare or public transit.
• Tickets: Badges for specific tracks (music, film, interactive) start at $500. Platinum badges offering access to all events cost more.
• Advice: Plan your schedule early; the event is massive, and overlapping panels and showcases mean prioritizing what matters most to you. Book accommodations as early as possible.

4. Hells Heroes Festival

• Date: March 20-22, 2025
• Location: Houston, Texas
• Overview: The Hells Heroes Festival is a must-attend event for heavy metal fans, showcasing a lineup of metal bands from around the world. Known for its high-energy atmosphere and dedicated fan base, this festival brings together headbangers and metal enthusiasts for three intense days of live performances.
• How to Get There: Fly into either George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) or William P. Hobby Airport (HOU). Houston’s public transit and rideshare options make it easy to reach the venue.
• Tickets: General admission tickets start around $100 for a multi-day pass, with VIP packages available for those seeking special access and perks.
• Advice: Prepare for a loud and lively crowd. Ear protection is recommended for sensitive ears, and arriving early ensures a good spot near the stage.

April

4. Chilifest

• Date: April 4-5, 2025
• Location: Snook, Texas
• Overview: Chilifest is a two-day event that combines a lively music festival with a chili cook-off. Known for its high-energy atmosphere, this festival attracts music lovers and foodies alike, making it a unique celebration of Texas culture.
• How to Get There: Snook is located about 90 miles northwest of Houston. The easiest way to reach the venue is by car.
• Tickets: General admission tickets start at $45, with VIP options available for an enhanced experience.
• Advice: Bring your appetite for chili and prepare for an energetic crowd. This event often draws a large college-aged audience, so expect a vibrant and youthful atmosphere.

5. Breakaway Festival Dallas

• Date: April 4-5, 2025
• Location: Dallas, Texas
• Overview: Breakaway Festival is a multi-city music festival series, and the Dallas edition features top electronic, hip-hop, and pop artists, bringing a high-energy atmosphere to Texas. Known for its vibrant stage setups, light shows, and immersive experiences, this festival is a favorite among young music fans.
• How to Get There: Fly into Dallas Love Field (DAL) or Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW). The festival venue is accessible via public transit and rideshare services.
• Tickets: General admission tickets start around $75, with VIP packages offering premium access and amenities.
• Advice: Expect large crowds and energetic performances. Wear comfortable shoes and stay hydrated, as the festival layout can require a lot of walking.

6. Two Step Inn Festival

• Date: April 5-6, 2025
• Location: Georgetown, Texas
• Overview: The Two Step Inn Festival celebrates Texas’s country music heritage with a weekend full of live performances by popular country artists, local food vendors, and Texas-style dance floors. This family-friendly festival offers attendees a true taste of Texas country music and dance culture.
• How to Get There: Georgetown is located about 30 miles north of Austin. Fly into Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) and take a rental car or rideshare to Georgetown.
• Tickets: General admission tickets start around $60, with VIP packages available for a more exclusive experience.
• Advice: Wear your favorite cowboy boots for dancing and bring sunscreen, as many festival activities are outdoors. Arrive early to explore the food stalls and enjoy local flavors.

7. Cattle Country Music Fest

• Date: April 10-12, 2025
• Location: Fort Worth, Texas
• Overview: The Cattle Country Music Fest is a celebration of Texas’s deep-rooted connection to country music and Western culture. Set in Fort Worth, a city known for its cowboy heritage, this festival features performances from popular country artists, dance floors, and Western-themed activities. It’s a perfect event for country music lovers and those looking to experience Texas’s authentic cowboy culture.
• How to Get There: Fly into Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and take a short drive to Fort Worth. Public transit and rideshare options are also available.
• Tickets: General admission tickets start around $80 for the three-day festival, with VIP options for premium seating and exclusive access.
• Advice: Embrace the Western spirit by wearing boots and cowboy hats, and be prepared for both indoor and outdoor stages. Arrive early for the best spots near the main stage and enjoy the local food vendors.

8. Dallas Reggae Festival

• Date: April 11-13, 2025
• Location: Dallas, Texas
• Overview: The Dallas Reggae Festival is a vibrant celebration of reggae music and Caribbean culture, featuring live performances from reggae bands, DJs, and international artists. Alongside the music, attendees can enjoy Caribbean-inspired food, art vendors, and cultural exhibits, creating a laid-back, island vibe in the heart of Dallas.
• How to Get There: Fly into Dallas Love Field (DAL) or Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW). The festival venue is easily accessible by public transit and rideshare.
• Tickets: General admission starts at $50, with weekend passes and VIP options available for exclusive access.
• Advice: Bring comfortable clothing and be prepared for outdoor weather. Arrive early to explore the food and art stalls, and don’t miss out on the festival’s highlight performances in the evening.

9. Ubbi Dubbi Festival

• Date: April 26-27, 2025
• Location: Fort Worth, Texas
• Overview: Ubbi Dubbi is a major electronic music festival that attracts fans from across the country. Featuring top EDM artists, immersive stage setups, and high-energy performances, this festival is known for its vibrant atmosphere and colorful visuals. It's a must-attend for electronic music enthusiasts looking to dance and enjoy an unforgettable weekend.
• How to Get There: Fly into Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and take a short drive or rideshare to the festival grounds in Fort Worth.
• Tickets: General admission tickets start around $150, with VIP packages that include perks like express entry, dedicated viewing areas, and exclusive amenities.
• Advice: Wear comfortable shoes for dancing, and stay hydrated throughout the event. Arrive early to enjoy the full lineup and explore the festival’s interactive art installations.

10. Fiesta San Antonio

• Date: April 24 - May 4, 2025
• Location: San Antonio, Texas
• Overview: Fiesta San Antonio is a 10-day citywide celebration honoring San Antonio’s multicultural heritage. Featuring vibrant parades, live music, art displays, and food fairs, it’s one of Texas’s most iconic and colorful festivals.
• How to Get There: Fly into San Antonio International Airport (SAT). Many events take place downtown, making it easy to explore by walking or using public transit.
• Tickets: Admission is free for many events, but some special events and reserved seating for parades may require tickets, ranging from $10-$50.
• Advice: Don’t miss the Battle of Flowers Parade and the Fiesta Flambeau Parade. Arrive early to secure good seating and explore the surrounding food and vendor areas.

May

11. Lone Star Smokeout

• Date: May 2-4, 2025
• Location: Austin, Texas
• Overview: The Lone Star Smokeout is a Texas barbecue and country music festival that brings together some of the best pitmasters and country artists in the state. Attendees can enjoy delicious Texas-style barbecue, live country music performances, and a variety of craft beers, making this festival a paradise for food and music lovers alike.
• How to Get There: Fly into Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS). The festival venue is accessible by car, public transit, and rideshare services within Austin.
• Tickets: General admission starts at $60, with VIP options that include exclusive food tastings, priority seating, and more.
• Advice: Bring your appetite and prepare to sample a variety of barbecue styles from top pitmasters. Wear comfortable clothes, and arrive early to avoid long lines at popular food stalls.

12. Pecan Street Festival

• Date: May 4-5, 2025
• Location: Austin, Texas
• Overview: One of the largest art festivals in Texas, the Pecan Street Festival features local artists, craft vendors, and live music on Austin’s historic Sixth Street.
• How to Get There: Downtown Austin is easily accessible from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport.
• Tickets: Free admission; food and drinks available for purchase.
• Advice: This family-friendly event is ideal for a leisurely day of browsing art, trying local food, and enjoying live performances.

13. Wildflower! Music Festival

• Date: May 16-18, 2025
• Location: Richardson, Texas
• Overview: The Wildflower! Music Festival is an annual outdoor music and arts event that celebrates a wide range of genres, from rock and indie to blues and folk. In addition to multiple stages with live performances, the festival features a songwriter competition, family-friendly activities, art displays, and food vendors. This beloved community event offers something for everyone, making it a highlight of the spring season in Texas.
• How to Get There: Fly into Dallas Love Field (DAL) or Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW). Richardson is a short drive from either airport, and public transit options are available.
• Tickets: General admission tickets start around $35, with discounted weekend passes and VIP packages offering reserved seating and exclusive amenities.
• Advice: Bring a blanket or lawn chair for comfortable seating, and arrive early to secure a spot near your favorite stage. Be sure to explore the art market and sample a variety of local food offerings.

15. ILLFest

• Date: May 30-31, 2025
• Location: Austin, Texas
• Overview: ILLFest is an electronic music and street art festival that brings together top electronic artists, DJs, and immersive visual art installations. Known for its high-energy performances, stunning stage designs, and vibrant murals, ILLFest offers a multi-sensory experience that blends music and art, creating a unique festival atmosphere in the heart of Austin.
• How to Get There: Fly into Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS). The festival venue in Austin is accessible by car, rideshare, or public transit.
• Tickets: General admission tickets start at $120 for the two-day event, with VIP packages offering access to exclusive areas, expedited entry, and special amenities.
• Advice: Wear comfortable shoes for dancing, and make sure to explore the art installations and murals. Arrive early to enjoy the full lineup and soak in the festival’s immersive atmosphere.

16. Kerrville Folk Festival

• Date: May 22 - June 8, 2025
• Location: Kerrville, Texas
• Overview: The Kerrville Folk Festival is one of the longest-running music festivals in the U.S., spanning 18 days and celebrating folk, Americana, and singer-songwriter music. Held in the scenic Texas Hill Country, the festival is known for its intimate campfire jams, songwriting workshops, and performances by both well-known and emerging folk artists. It’s a beloved gathering for music lovers and artists alike, fostering a community spirit that keeps attendees returning year after year.
• How to Get There: Fly into San Antonio International Airport (SAT) and take a scenic drive to Kerrville, located about an hour northwest of San Antonio.
• Tickets: Tickets are available for single days, weekends, or the full festival, with prices starting around $25 for a single-day pass. Camping passes are also available for those who wish to stay on-site.
• Advice: Bring comfortable camping gear if you plan to stay on-site, and be ready for a laid-back atmosphere with plenty of opportunities for campfire singing and mingling with other folk music fans.

June

17. Texas Route 66 Festival

• Date: June 5-14, 2025
• Location: Various towns along Route 66, Texas Panhandle
• Overview: Celebrating the iconic history and culture of Route 66, the Texas Route 66 Festival features car shows, live music, vintage markets, and scenic drives through historic Route 66 towns in the Texas Panhandle. Attendees can explore attractions, classic diners, and local shops that preserve the spirit of this historic route.
• How to Get There: Fly into Amarillo International Airport (AMA) and drive along Route 66 to experience the festival events in Amarillo, Shamrock, and nearby towns.
• Tickets: Most events are free, though some activities or tours may have small fees.
• Advice: Plan to stay in different towns along the route for the full experience, and take time to visit famous Route 66 landmarks like Cadillac Ranch and the U-Drop Inn.

18. Cotton Fest

• Date: June 26-28, 2025
• Location: Lubbock, Texas
• Overview: Cotton Fest is a lively, Texas-style music festival that combines country music performances with classic Texas traditions like a chili cook-off, a BBQ cook-off, and even some rodeo events. Founded by Texas country artist William Clark Green, the festival brings together fans of country music and celebrates Lubbock’s roots in the cotton industry. Expect a lineup of popular Texas country musicians, delicious food, and a family-friendly atmosphere.
• How to Get There: Fly into Lubbock Preston Smith International Airport (LBB) and take a short drive to the festival grounds.
• Tickets: General admission tickets start around $75 for the weekend, with VIP packages available for enhanced amenities and premium seating.
• Advice: Prepare for hot summer weather, wear comfortable boots, and come ready to sample some excellent Texas chili and BBQ. This is a family-friendly event, so bring the whole family to enjoy the festival’s unique Texas charm.

Texas Festivals in 2025. Image: KnowInsiders

19. Juneteenth Celebrations

• Date: June 19, 2025
• Location: Various cities across Texas (notably Galveston, the birthplace of Juneteenth)
• Overview: Juneteenth marks the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in Texas. Celebrations include parades, community gatherings, and educational events. Galveston’s Juneteenth events are particularly significant, featuring historical reenactments and cultural programs.
• How to Get There: Galveston is a short drive from Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH).
• Tickets: Most events are free, though some educational programs may have small fees.
• Advice: Visit the Juneteenth National Museum and attend Galveston’s Freedom Walk for a deeper understanding of this important celebration.

October

20. Texas Renaissance Festival

• Date: October 11 - November 30, 2025 (weekends only)
• Location: Todd Mission, Texas
• Overview: The Texas Renaissance Festival is the nation’s largest Renaissance-themed event, offering an immersive journey back to the 16th century. Spread across eight weekends, the festival features themed weekends, live jousting, period-specific crafts, artisan vendors, costumed performers, and feasts. Visitors can explore the 55-acre village, complete with castles, pubs, and shops.
• How to Get There: Todd Mission is located about an hour northwest of Houston. Visitors can drive or use shuttle services offered from nearby cities.
• Tickets: General admission starts at $20, with discounts available for children and advance online purchases. VIP packages, including reserved seating for events, are also available.
• Advice: Dress in costume to enhance the experience and take part in the themed weekends. Arrive early to avoid traffic and have time to explore the sprawling grounds. Comfortable footwear is essential for navigating the village’s cobblestone paths.

21. Texas State Fair

• Date: September 26 - October 19, 2025
• Location: Dallas, Texas
• Overview: The Texas State Fair is one of the largest and longest-running fairs in the U.S., offering classic fair attractions like carnival rides, fried food, and livestock shows. Highlights include the iconic Big Tex statue and nightly concerts.
• How to Get There: Fly into Dallas Love Field (DAL) or Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW). Public transit is available via DART to Fair Park.
• Tickets: General admission starts at $15, with family packages and discounted weekday tickets available.
• Advice: Try the fair’s famous fried delicacies like fried Oreos and fried butter. Visit on weekdays to avoid the largest crowds.

22. Austin City Limits Music Festival (ACL)

• Date: October 3-5 & 10-12, 2025
• Location: Zilker Park, Austin, Texas
• Overview: ACL features two weekends of performances by top artists across multiple stages, with genres ranging from rock and pop to country and hip-hop.
• Tickets: General admission starts at $250 for one weekend. VIP and Platinum passes offer additional perks.
• Advice: Arrive early for popular headliners, and use the shuttle service provided by the festival to reach Zilker Park.

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November

23. Texas Book Festival

• Date: November 1-2, 2025
• Location: Downtown Austin, Texas
• Overview: One of the largest literary festivals in the U.S., the Texas Book Festival celebrates literature and Texas authors. Hosted annually in the Texas State Capitol and nearby streets, this festival features author panels, book signings, storytelling sessions, and an extensive literary marketplace. It’s a must-attend for book lovers of all ages.
• How to Get There: Fly into Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS). The festival is located downtown, within walking distance of major hotels and public transit options.
• Tickets: Admission to the festival is free, but special sessions or fundraising events, such as the First Edition Literary Gala, may require paid tickets.
• Advice: Plan your schedule in advance to attend panels by your favorite authors. Wear comfortable shoes, as the festival spans several blocks. Don’t forget to bring a bag for all the books you’ll likely purchase!

Texas Festivals 2025

24. Wurstfest

• Date: November 1-10, 2025
• Location: New Braunfels, Texas
• Overview: A celebration of German culture and heritage, Wurstfest offers traditional German food, music, and dancing in the charming town of New Braunfels.
• How to Get There: Located an hour from both Austin and San Antonio, New Braunfels is accessible by car.
• Tickets: General admission starts at $15, with food and drink available for purchase on-site.
• Advice: Wear comfortable shoes for dancing to polka bands, and don’t miss the sausage sampler platters!

December

25. Trail of Lights

• Date: December 7-23, 2025
• Location: Zilker Park, Austin, Texas
• Overview: This holiday tradition transforms Austin’s Zilker Park into a wonderland of Christmas lights and festive displays. Visitors can enjoy hot cocoa, live music, and holiday-themed activities.
• How to Get There: Parking is limited, so using rideshare or public transit is recommended.
• Tickets: General admission starts at $5, with early access and VIP options available.
• Advice: Weekdays are less crowded than weekends. Dress warmly, as December evenings can be chilly in Austin.

Conclusion

From the high-energy tech and music scene of SXSW to the cultural vibrancy of Fiesta San Antonio and the historic significance of Juneteenth, Texas’s festivals in 2025 offer something for everyone. Whether you’re a foodie, history enthusiast, music lover, or just looking for a fun day out, the Lone Star State’s celebrations reflect its diverse and lively spirit.

FAQs About Texas Festivals in 2025

1. What are some must-attend festivals in Texas in 2025?

Texas offers a wide range of must-attend festivals, from SXSW in Austin for music, tech, and film enthusiasts to Fiesta San Antonio for a cultural and historical experience. Other notable festivals include the Texas State Fair in Dallas, Texas Renaissance Festival in Todd Mission, and Texas Book Festival in Austin.

2. How early should I purchase tickets for popular Texas festivals?

Popular festivals, like SXSW, sell out quickly, so it’s best to purchase tickets as soon as they become available. Many Texas festivals release tickets several months in advance, and signing up for newsletters or notifications can help ensure you don’t miss the sale dates.

3. What’s the best way to get around Texas during festival season?

Texas has an extensive network of highways, making driving the easiest way to get to many festivals. For large cities like Austin, Dallas, and San Antonio, public transportation options like buses and rideshare services are available, though you may experience heavy traffic during major events. Booking accommodations close to festival sites can minimize travel time.

4. Are Texas festivals family-friendly?

Many Texas festivals welcome families, especially cultural and food events like Fiesta San Antonio and the Texas State Fair, which often have kid-friendly activities. Some festivals, such as SXSW, may have age restrictions for certain events or venues, so it’s best to check each festival’s guidelines.

5. What should I wear to Texas festivals, given the state’s weather?

Texas weather varies, so dressing in layers is a good idea, especially for events in spring and fall. Summers can be extremely hot, particularly for outdoor festivals like the Texas State Fair. Bringing sunscreen, a hat, and staying hydrated are essential, especially during outdoor events.

6. Are pets allowed at Texas festivals?

Most large festivals in Texas do not allow pets for safety and crowd control reasons, but some outdoor and food festivals, like smaller farmers’ markets or pet-friendly gatherings, may allow leashed dogs. Service animals are typically permitted at all festivals.

7. How can I experience local Texas culture at these festivals?

Festivals like Fiesta San Antonio and the Texas Renaissance Festival are steeped in local culture, with traditional music, costumes, and regional food. Attending local events and exploring food stalls is a great way to enjoy authentic Texas culture.

8. Are Texas festivals accessible for people with disabilities?

Most major festivals in Texas prioritize accessibility with ADA-compliant facilities, viewing areas, and accessible parking. It’s best to check with each festival’s organizers in advance to confirm specific accommodations.

9. How can I avoid crowds at large Texas festivals?

To enjoy festivals with fewer crowds, consider attending on weekdays or during off-peak hours (early morning or late afternoon). Booking accommodations early and planning transportation ahead can also help reduce stress during busy festival times.

10. What kinds of food can I expect at Texas festivals?

Texas festivals offer a range of foods, from classic barbecue at the Texas State Fair to international flavors at events like Fiesta San Antonio. Food vendors often include both local specialties and unique, Texas-inspired dishes, providing a true taste of the state.