Spring in Texas brings a vibrant array of events and activities for residents and visitors alike. From nature walks to music festivals, there’s something to suit every taste and interest. Texas blooms with seasonal events that showcase the state’s natural beauty, rich culture, and diverse entertainment options.
The Lone Star State offers numerous opportunities to enjoy the mild spring weather and explore its unique attractions. Nature enthusiasts can marvel at wildflower displays, while food lovers can indulge in culinary festivals celebrating local flavors. Music fans will find plenty of concerts and live performances to enjoy across various genres.
These spring events provide a perfect opportunity for Texans and tourists to experience the state’s warm hospitality and lively atmosphere. Whether seeking family-friendly activities or adults-only entertainment, the upcoming spring calendar promises memorable experiences for all who participate.
Spotlight on Major Cities
Texas’s major cities come alive in spring with vibrant events and festivals. Each metropolis offers unique celebrations that showcase local culture, arts, and entertainment.
Austin’s Spring Festivities
South by Southwest (SXSW) dominates Austin’s spring calendar. This world-renowned festival runs from March 8-16, 2025, featuring music, film, and interactive media. It attracts global talent and industry leaders.
The Zilker Park Kite Festival, held on March 2, 2025, is a beloved local tradition. Thousands gather to fly kites and enjoy family-friendly activities.
Austin Food + Wine Festival takes place April 25-27, 2025. It spotlights culinary talent with tastings, cooking demos, and live music.
Dallas’s Premier Events
The Dallas Blooms festival at the Dallas Arboretum runs from February 22 to April 6, 2025. It showcases over 500,000 spring-blooming flowers across 66 acres.
Dallas Arts Month in April celebrates the city’s creative spirit. It features gallery exhibitions, performances, and interactive events across various venues.
The Deep Ellum Arts Festival, held April 4-6, 2025, transforms the historic neighborhood into an outdoor art gallery and music venue.
Houston Happenings
The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, from February 25 to March 16, 2025, is a Texan tradition. It combines rodeo competitions with star-studded concerts and a carnival.
WorldFest-Houston International Film Festival runs April 17-26, 2025. It screens over 200 independent films from around the globe.
The Houston Japan Festival, on April 19-20, 2025, celebrates Japanese culture with performances, food, and activities at Hermann Park.
San Antonio Celebrations
Fiesta San Antonio, from April 17-27, 2025, is the city’s biggest spring event. It features parades, cultural performances, and food festivals across the city.
The San Antonio Book Festival on April 5, 2025, brings together authors and readers for a day of literary discussions and book signings.
Culinaria Wine + Food Festival, held May 15-18, 2025, showcases San Antonio’s diverse culinary scene with tastings, chef demonstrations, and wine seminars.
Outdoor and Nature Events
Texas bursts with natural beauty and outdoor activities each spring. Visitors can immerse themselves in colorful wildflower displays, observe diverse wildlife, and experience authentic ranch culture across the state.
Wildflower Festivals
The Fredericksburg Bluebonnet Festival showcases vibrant floral displays alongside Texas vendors and musicians. Attendees can stroll through fields of bluebonnets, the state flower, while enjoying live entertainment and local crafts.
Ennis hosts its annual Bluebonnet Trails Festival in April. The event features guided tours of over 40 miles of wildflower-lined roads, as well as a street fair with food, art, and family activities.
In East Texas, the Tyler Azalea Trail offers a different floral experience. Visitors can drive or walk through historic districts adorned with blooming azaleas and dogwoods.
Birding and Wildlife Tours
The Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail attracts birdwatchers from around the world. Spring migration brings numerous species to coastal areas like Corpus Christi and South Padre Island.
Guided tours in Big Bend National Park allow visitors to spot diverse wildlife, including roadrunners, javelinas, and various bird species against dramatic desert landscapes.
The Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge offers seasonal programs focused on migratory birds and native animals. Visitors can join guided hikes or canoe trips to observe local fauna.
Ranch and Rodeo Days
The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, typically held in March, combines traditional rodeo events with live music performances by top artists. Visitors can experience bull riding, barrel racing, and livestock exhibitions.
Bandera, the “Cowboy Capital of the World,” hosts various springtime events. These include trail rides, chuck wagon cook-offs, and cowboy skills demonstrations.
The Texas Ranch Roundup in Wichita Falls showcases authentic ranch life. Teams from working ranches compete in events like bronc riding, wild cow milking, and team branding.
Arts and Culture
Texas bursts with creative energy each spring through vibrant festivals, captivating performances, and thought-provoking exhibitions. The Lone Star State offers a diverse array of cultural experiences for art enthusiasts and casual observers alike.
Film and Music Festivals
South by Southwest (SXSW) in Austin remains a cornerstone of Texas’ spring festival scene. This multi-day event showcases emerging filmmakers, musicians, and interactive media creators from around the world.
The Dallas International Film Festival brings cinematic treasures to North Texas, featuring independent films, documentaries, and shorts. Attendees can participate in Q&A sessions with directors and actors.
For music lovers, the Old Settler’s Music Festival near Austin celebrates Americana, bluegrass, and roots music. The festival grounds come alive with multiple stages, camping, and craft vendors.
Theater Performances
Houston’s Theater District springs to life with world-class productions at venues like the Alley Theatre and Hobby Center for the Performing Arts. Broadway tours and local productions offer a range of options from classic dramas to cutting-edge works.
Dallas Theater Center presents innovative interpretations of beloved plays alongside new works by emerging playwrights. Their spring season often includes outdoor performances in local parks.
San Antonio’s Majestic Theatre hosts touring Broadway shows, giving residents and visitors access to Tony Award-winning productions without leaving Texas.
Art Exhibitions and Galleries
The Contemporary Austin showcases modern and contemporary art through rotating exhibitions and its sculpture park at Laguna Gloria. Spring installations often feature site-specific works that engage with the natural landscape.
Houston’s Museum District offers a concentrated dose of culture with institutions like the Museum of Fine Arts and the Menil Collection. Special spring exhibitions often highlight regional artists or explore themes relevant to Texas history and culture.
Fort Worth’s Kimbell Art Museum combines its world-renowned permanent collection with special exhibitions that bring masterpieces from around the globe to North Texas. The museum’s architecture itself is a work of art, designed by Louis Kahn.
Food and Drink Experiences
Texas spring events offer a tantalizing array of culinary delights. From smoky barbecue competitions to elegant wine tastings and vibrant farmers markets, the Lone Star State serves up flavors to satisfy every palate.
BBQ Cook-Offs
Texas takes its barbecue seriously, and spring cook-offs showcase the best pit masters in the state. The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo’s World’s Championship Bar-B-Que Contest draws over 250 teams competing for top honors. Visitors can sample mouthwatering brisket, ribs, and sausage.
In Lockhart, the “Barbecue Capital of Texas,” the annual Chisholm Trail Roundup features a sanctioned cook-off. Teams battle for prizes while attendees enjoy live music and family-friendly activities alongside the savory smoked meats.
The Bluebonnet BBQ Cookoff in Burnet combines scenic Hill Country views with finger-licking goodness. This event highlights both professional and amateur grillers, giving guests a chance to taste a wide variety of barbecue styles.
Wine and Beer Tastings
Spring in Texas brings perfect weather for outdoor sipping. The Dallas Arboretum Food & Wine Festival offers a sophisticated experience, pairing local wines with small plates from top chefs amidst blooming gardens.
For beer enthusiasts, the Texas Craft Brewers Festival in Austin showcases over 70 breweries. Attendees can sample unique and seasonal brews while chatting with brewmasters about their craft.
The Fredericksburg Food & Wine Fest celebrates the burgeoning Texas wine industry. Set in the heart of Hill Country, this event features tastings from numerous wineries, cooking demonstrations, and live entertainment.
Farmer’s Markets and Culinary Tours
Spring farmers markets burst with fresh produce and artisanal goods. The Pearl Farmers Market in San Antonio offers a curated selection of local fruits, vegetables, and prepared foods every Saturday. Cooking demonstrations highlight seasonal ingredients.
Austin’s SFC Farmers’ Market Downtown provides a midweek option for fresh, locally-sourced products. Visitors can find everything from farm-fresh eggs to homemade jams and pastries.
Culinary tours offer immersive food experiences. In Houston, Texas Food Tours guides groups through diverse neighborhoods, sampling regional specialties and learning about the city’s culinary history. These tours provide a tasty way to explore Texas’ multicultural food scene.
Family-Friendly Activities
Texas offers a wide array of spring events perfect for families. From thrilling amusement parks to educational workshops and interactive exhibits, there’s something for everyone to enjoy together.
Amusement Parks and Fairs
The State Fair of Texas is a must-visit attraction for families. It features rides, games, and live entertainment suitable for all ages. The fair also showcases Texas culture through exhibits and food stalls offering local specialties.
Splashtown in Spring provides a refreshing escape from the Texas heat. This water park boasts numerous slides, pools, and play areas for children of different ages. Families can relax in cabanas or enjoy picnic areas between rides.
Many towns across Texas host spring carnivals with classic rides, games, and fair food. These events often include local artisans and craftspeople, giving families a chance to support small businesses while having fun.
Educational Workshops
Museums throughout Texas offer special spring programs for families. The Houston Museum of Natural Science conducts hands-on workshops where children can learn about dinosaurs, space exploration, and local ecosystems.
The Perot Museum of Nature and Science in Dallas organizes interactive sessions on topics like robotics and geology. These workshops encourage children to engage with STEM subjects in exciting ways.
Many Texas libraries host family reading events and storytelling sessions during spring. These events often feature local authors and illustrators, promoting literacy and creativity among young readers.
Interactive Exhibits
The San Antonio Zoo creates seasonal exhibits that allow families to get up close with various animals. Spring events might include butterfly gardens or special feeding experiences with zoo residents.
The Fort Worth Museum of Science and History offers innovative exhibits that blend education with entertainment. Families can explore topics like energy, technology, and Texas history through hands-on displays.
The Thinkery in Austin provides a creative space for children to learn through play. Its spring programs often focus on outdoor activities and nature exploration, taking advantage of the pleasant weather.
Music and Live Performances
Texas offers an exciting array of musical events and live performances in the spring. From outdoor concerts to symphonic showcases and vibrant music venues, there’s something for every music lover to enjoy.
Concerts in the Park
Spring in Texas brings a host of free outdoor concerts. Many cities host weekly music series in local parks. These events feature diverse genres, from country and rock to jazz and blues.
Families often pack picnics and blankets to enjoy the tunes under the open sky. Local food trucks and vendors frequently set up shop, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Some popular concert series include:
- Houston’s Miller Outdoor Theatre performances
- Austin’s Blues on the Green at Zilker Park
- Dallas’ Concert in the Garden series
These events typically run from March through May, offering a perfect way to welcome the warmer weather.
Symphony Under the Stars
Texas symphonies take their performances outdoors in the spring. These events combine classical music with the beauty of nature.
The Houston Symphony hosts “Symphony in the Park” at various locations. In Austin, the “Hartman Foundation Concerts in the Park” feature chamber ensembles from the Austin Symphony Orchestra.
These concerts often include popular classical pieces and film scores. Attendees can bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating. Some venues offer pre-concert activities like instrument “petting zoos” for children.
Dates vary by location, but most occur on weekend evenings in April and May.
Live Music Venues
Texas boasts numerous renowned live music venues that come alive in spring. Austin, known as the “Live Music Capital of the World,” offers iconic spots like The Continental Club and Stubb’s BBQ.
In Houston, White Oak Music Hall hosts both indoor and outdoor shows. Dallas’ Deep Ellum neighborhood is home to several popular venues, including Trees and The Bomb Factory.
Many venues increase their bookings in spring, preparing for the summer festival season. Music fans can catch both local acts and national touring artists.
Spring is an ideal time to explore these venues, with pleasant weather and a bustling concert calendar.
Sports and Recreation
Texas offers a diverse array of spring sporting events for athletes and spectators alike. From challenging marathons to prestigious golf tournaments and exciting fishing competitions, there’s something to suit every outdoor enthusiast.
Marathons and 5K Runs
The Bluebonnet Trail Marathon in Ennis showcases Texas wildflowers along its scenic route. Held in April, this USATF-certified course attracts runners from across the state. For a unique experience, the Cowtown Marathon in Fort Worth combines urban landscapes with rural charm. Taking place in late February, it features multiple race distances to accommodate all skill levels.
In Austin, the Cap10K, one of the largest 10K races in Texas, brings together over 20,000 participants each spring. The event includes a health and fitness expo and supports local charities.
Golf Tournaments
The Valero Texas Open, part of the PGA Tour, takes center stage in San Antonio every April. Held at TPC San Antonio, this prestigious event draws top golfers from around the world. Golf enthusiasts can witness world-class play and enjoy the tournament’s festival atmosphere.
For amateur golfers, the Texas Amateur Championship rotates between various courses across the state. This multi-day event in June tests the skills of the best non-professional players in Texas.
Fishing Competitions
The Texas International Fishing Tournament in South Padre Island kicks off the spring fishing season. This family-friendly event in May includes bay and offshore divisions for anglers of all ages. Prizes are awarded for various fish species, creating an exciting competitive atmosphere.
Lake Fork hosts the annual Big Bass Splash in April, attracting anglers hoping to reel in hefty largemouth bass. With substantial cash prizes and hourly payouts, this tournament is a highlight for fishing enthusiasts.
The Bassmaster Texas Fest on Lake Travis combines professional competition with conservation efforts. This catch-weigh-release format event showcases top anglers while promoting sustainable fishing practices.
Business and Tech Conferences
Texas hosts several notable business and tech conferences in spring 2025. These events provide opportunities for professionals to network, learn about industry trends, and gain valuable insights.
The Dallas Tech Expo brings together innovators and entrepreneurs from across the state. It features keynote speakers, product demonstrations, and workshops on emerging technologies.
Austin’s SXSW Conference includes a robust tech track with sessions on artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital transformation. The event attracts global tech leaders and startups alike.
Houston’s Energy Tech Summit focuses on innovations in the energy sector. Topics include renewable energy, smart grid technologies, and sustainable business practices.
The Texas Business Forum in San Antonio covers a range of industries. It offers sessions on leadership, finance, marketing, and operations for businesses of all sizes.
For those interested in fintech, the Dallas FinTech Conference explores the latest in financial technology. Blockchain, cryptocurrency, and digital banking are key topics of discussion.
These conferences provide valuable opportunities for professionals to stay current with industry developments. Attendees can gain insights, make connections, and discover new business opportunities.
Historical and Heritage Events
Texas boasts a rich tapestry of historical and heritage events that celebrate the state’s diverse cultural legacy. The Texas Heritage Trails Program, an award-winning initiative by the Texas Historical Commission, hosts numerous events throughout the year.
These events offer visitors the chance to immerse themselves in local customs, traditions, and history. From reenactments to cultural festivals, there’s something for every history enthusiast.
One popular event is the Texas Independence Day Celebration, held annually on March 2nd. This commemoration marks Texas’ declaration of independence from Mexico in 1836.
The San Jacinto Day Festival, typically held in April, commemorates the decisive battle of the Texas Revolution. Visitors can witness battle reenactments and explore living history camps.
For those interested in pioneer life, the Texas Folklife Festival in San Antonio showcases traditional crafts, music, and cuisine from various ethnic groups that shaped Texas culture.
The Frontier Times Jamboree in Bandera celebrates the cowboy heritage of the Texas Hill Country. Attendees can enjoy rodeo events, cowboy poetry, and authentic chuck wagon meals.
Many historic sites and museums across Texas also host special events throughout the spring season, offering guided tours, workshops, and educational programs for visitors of all ages.
Seasonal Shopping Experiences
Texas offers unique seasonal shopping opportunities during the spring. From charming craft fairs to exclusive boutique events, shoppers can find special items and support local artisans.
Spring Craft Fairs
Spring craft fairs in Texas showcase handmade goods and artisanal products. The Round Top Antique Weekend in April attracts thousands of visitors searching for vintage treasures and unique collectibles. Vendors line the highways leading to Round Top, offering jewelry, home goods, furniture, and more.
Many towns host springtime markets featuring local artisans. These events often include live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities. Shoppers can find handcrafted jewelry, pottery, textiles, and seasonal decor.
Local Boutique Trunk Shows
Texas boutiques embrace spring with special trunk shows and pop-up events. These intimate shopping experiences allow customers to preview new collections and meet designers. Many boutiques offer refreshments and personalized styling advice during these events.
Spring trunk shows often feature lightweight fabrics, floral prints, and pastel colors. Shoppers can find exclusive pieces not available in regular store inventory. Some boutiques partner with local artists to showcase complementary accessories or artwork alongside clothing collections.
These events provide a curated shopping experience and the opportunity to support Texas-based designers and small businesses.
