The Biggest Annual Events in Texas 2026: From SXSW to the Houston Rodeo
Texas is known for doing everything big, and its annual events calendar is no exception. From legendary rodeos and world-class music festivals to cultural celebrations and major sporting events, the Lone Star State offers year-round attractions that draw millions of visitors.
Read more: Texas Calendar: List of Unique State Holidays, Significances and Celebrations
January: Stock Shows & Western Traditions
Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo
One of the oldest continuously running livestock shows in the U.S., featuring rodeo competitions, concerts, and agricultural exhibits.
San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo
A major winter event combining professional rodeo events with live music and family-friendly attractions.
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| Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo |
February: Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo
Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo
The largest rodeo in the world, held annually in Houston. The event features top-tier rodeo competitions, a massive carnival, and concerts by major national and international artists.
March: Spring Festivals & SXSW
South by Southwest
Often known simply as SXSW, this Austin-based festival blends music, film, technology, and interactive media. It’s one of the most influential creative events in the world.
Texas Independence Day Celebrations
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| Texas Independence Day. Photo: KnowInsiders |
Observed on March 2, with festivals and reenactments across the state, especially in historic towns.
Read more: 25 Largest Festivals in Texas: Dates, Locations, Activities, And Tickets
April: Bluebonnets & Food Festivals
Bluebonnet Season
April is peak wildflower season, with scenic drives and festivals celebrating Texas’s iconic bluebonnets.
Texas Food & Barbecue Festivals
Cities like Austin and Lockhart host major barbecue and food festivals highlighting Texas culinary traditions.
Read more: Texas Festival Guide: The Most Popular Holidays and Events Across the Lone Star State
May: Fiesta San Antonio & Memorial Day Events
Fiesta San Antonio
A citywide, multi-day celebration featuring parades, music, food, and cultural events, attracting visitors from across the country.
Memorial Day Weekend Festivals
Kick off summer with concerts, outdoor events, and lake activities statewide.
June: Juneteenth & Summer Kickoff
Juneteenth
Texas is the birthplace of Juneteenth, commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. Major celebrations take place in Galveston, Houston, Dallas, and Austin.
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| The music festival in Texas |
July: Independence Day & Summer Celebrations
Fourth of July Fireworks & Festivals
Large-scale fireworks shows and patriotic celebrations take place in Austin, Dallas–Fort Worth, Houston, and San Antonio.
Summer Music & Community Festivals
July features outdoor concerts, cultural festivals, and family-friendly events across the state.
August: State Fair Preview & Music Events
Late-Summer Music Festivals
While quieter than spring and fall, August still hosts regional music festivals and community events, especially in Central Texas.
September: State Fair of Texas
State Fair of Texas
Held in Dallas, this iconic event is famous for Big Tex, college football at the Cotton Bowl, live music, and inventive fair food.
October: Formula 1 & Fall Festivals
Formula 1 United States Grand Prix
A global motorsports event held at Circuit of the Americas in Austin, attracting international fans.
Austin City Limits Music Festival
One of the most popular music festivals in the U.S., taking place over two weekends in Zilker Park.
November: Cultural Heritage & Holiday Kickoff
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| Houston’s annual Thanksgiving Parade |
Día de los Muertos Celebrations
Observed across Texas, especially in San Antonio and Austin, with altars, parades, and cultural programming.
Thanksgiving Events
Parades, charity runs, and early holiday festivities across major Texas cities.
December: Holiday Lights & New Year’s Eve
Holiday Celebrations
Cities like Grapevine, known as the “Christmas Capital of Texas,” host elaborate light displays and themed events.
New Year’s Eve Celebrations
Fireworks and concerts in Dallas, Austin, and Houston close out the year.
Why Texas Events Stand Out
Texas’s annual events reflect its deep cultural roots, musical influence, and community spirit. From historic rodeos and Independence celebrations to global festivals like SXSW and Formula 1, Texas offers year-round reasons to visit.
