Texas offers a wide array of Easter activities and events that cater to all ages and interests. From traditional egg hunts to unique cultural experiences, the Lone Star State provides numerous opportunities to celebrate the spring season with family and friends.
Easter in Texas features family-friendly experiences, outdoor adventures, and festive celebrations that create lasting memories. Visitors and residents alike can enjoy everything from bicycle tours through the scenic Hill Country to exciting Easter egg hunts at popular theme parks. These events showcase the diverse landscapes and vibrant communities that make Texas a special place to spend the holiday.
For those seeking a blend of tradition and adventure, Texas Easter celebrations offer something for everyone. Attendees can participate in annual runs with their furry companions, indulge in luxurious brunches, or explore the state’s natural beauty while engaging in seasonal activities. With so many options available, Easter in Texas promises to be a memorable and enjoyable experience for all.
Signature Texas Easter Events
Texas offers several iconic Easter celebrations that have become beloved traditions. These events showcase the state’s unique culture and community spirit during the holiday season.
Easter Parade in Houston
Houston’s annual Easter Parade brings vibrant colors and festive cheer to the city’s streets. The parade features elaborate floats, marching bands, and costumed characters. Spectators line the route, eager to catch a glimpse of the Easter Bunny and other holiday-themed displays.
Local businesses and organizations participate, creating a sense of community pride. Children especially enjoy the candy and small toys tossed from floats. The parade typically begins in the late morning and winds through downtown Houston.
Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to secure good viewing spots. Many families make a day of it, combining the parade with brunch or picnics in nearby parks.
Austin’s Easter Festival
Austin’s Easter Festival transforms Zilker Park into a springtime wonderland. The event combines traditional Easter activities with Austin’s unique flair. Visitors can participate in egg hunts for different age groups, ensuring fun for children of all ages.
Live music performances showcase local talent, adding a distinctly Austin touch to the festivities. Food trucks offer a variety of treats, from classic Texas barbecue to gourmet Easter-themed desserts.
Arts and crafts stations allow children to create Easter-themed projects. Face painting and balloon artists add to the carnival atmosphere. The festival usually runs from mid-morning to late afternoon, providing ample time for families to enjoy all the activities.
San Antonio Eggstravaganza
San Antonio’s Eggstravaganza blends Easter traditions with the city’s rich cultural heritage. The event takes place at multiple locations throughout the city, including parks and community centers.
Egg hunts are a main attraction, with thousands of eggs hidden for children to find. Some hunts feature special prize eggs containing tickets for larger gifts. Cultural performances, including folklórico dancing and mariachi music, celebrate San Antonio’s diverse community.
Petting zoos with spring animals like bunnies and chicks delight young visitors. Local artisans sell handcrafted Easter decorations and gifts. The Eggstravaganza typically occurs the weekend before Easter, allowing families to kick off their holiday celebrations early.
Family-Friendly Activities
Texas offers an array of Easter activities suitable for the whole family. From classic egg hunts to engaging animal encounters, there’s something to delight children and adults alike across the Lone Star State.
Egg Hunts Across the Lone Star State
The Hilton Anatole in Dallas hosts a Texas-sized Easter Egg Hunt in their Sculpture Garden. Children can search for eggs filled with candies and toys while enjoying face painting and balloon artists.
The Stockyards Easter Egg Hop in Fort Worth invites kids to explore Stockyards Station and Mule Alley in search of hidden eggs. This event also features live music and various kid-friendly activities.
Many local parks and community centers across Texas organize egg hunts. These often include age-specific areas to ensure fair hunting for all children.
Puppet Shows and Storytimes
Libraries and bookstores throughout Texas frequently host Easter-themed storytimes. These events often feature interactive elements, allowing children to participate in the tales.
Puppet theaters in major cities like Austin and Houston put on special Easter performances. These shows typically blend entertainment with educational content about spring and Easter traditions.
Some malls and shopping centers bring in professional storytellers for special Easter events. These performances often incorporate music and audience participation.
Petting Zoos and Farm Visits
Country Critters petting zoo offers hands-on experiences with farm animals during Easter celebrations. Children can interact with rabbits, chicks, and other spring-associated animals.
Many Texas farms open their gates for Easter events. These often include egg hunts in natural settings, hayrides, and opportunities to feed and pet farm animals.
Some locations offer live bunny photo opportunities, allowing families to capture memorable Easter moments with furry friends.
Petting zoos at Easter events frequently feature educational components, teaching children about animal care and farm life.
Religious Services and Observances
Easter in Texas offers a variety of spiritual gatherings and traditional ceremonies. Churches across the state welcome visitors to join in worship and reflection during this sacred time.
Sunrise Services in Dallas
Several Dallas churches host outdoor sunrise services on Easter morning. Lakeside Baptist Church holds a picturesque service at White Rock Lake starting at 6:30 AM. Attendees gather on the shoreline to watch the sun rise over the water while participating in hymns and prayer.
Highland Park United Methodist Church conducts its annual sunrise service on the SMU campus at Dallas Hall Lawn. The service begins at 6:45 AM and features live music from the church choir.
For those seeking an urban setting, Thanks-Giving Square in downtown Dallas offers an interdenominational service at 7:00 AM. The unique spiral chapel provides a striking backdrop for the early morning worship.
Live Passion Plays
Many Texas communities present live reenactments of the Easter story. In San Antonio, the San Fernando Cathedral stages its Passion of Christ in both English and Spanish on Good Friday. The outdoor performance draws thousands of spectators to Main Plaza.
The town of Burnet hosts the long-running Easter Pageant at Haley-Nelson Park. This free event features over 150 costumed actors portraying scenes from Jesus’ life, crucifixion, and resurrection.
In Houston, the A.D. Players theater company performs “The Resurrection” at the George Theater. This professional production runs for two weekends leading up to Easter Sunday.
St. Mary’s Cathedral Mass Schedule
St. Mary Cathedral in Austin offers a full schedule of Easter masses and services. The Triduum begins with Holy Thursday mass at 7:00 PM, including the traditional washing of feet ceremony.
Good Friday services take place at 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM, with Stations of the Cross at noon. The Easter Vigil mass on Saturday evening starts at 8:30 PM and includes the lighting of the Paschal candle.
On Easter Sunday, masses are held at 8:00 AM, 9:30 AM, noon, and 5:30 PM. The 9:30 AM mass features a children’s liturgy and is typically the most crowded service of the day.
Outdoor Adventures
Texas offers numerous opportunities to celebrate Easter amid nature’s beauty. From scenic state parks to winding rivers, outdoor enthusiasts can embrace the holiday spirit while enjoying the state’s diverse landscapes.
Easter Picnics at State Parks
Texas state parks provide idyllic settings for Easter picnics. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area offers stunning views and unique rock formations for families to explore. Pedernales Falls State Park features picturesque waterfalls and swimming holes.
Garner State Park, known for its crystal-clear Frio River, is perfect for a riverside Easter feast. Visitors can rent pavilions or find secluded spots along hiking trails for their gatherings.
Many parks organize special Easter events, including egg hunts and nature-themed activities. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak holiday weekends.
Nature Trails and Scavenger Hunts
Easter-themed nature trails and scavenger hunts combine holiday fun with outdoor exploration. The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center in Austin hosts springtime walks showcasing Texas wildflowers in bloom.
Local parks and nature centers often create temporary Easter-themed trails. These may include hidden eggs or spring-related clues for children to discover.
Families can also design their own scavenger hunts in nearby green spaces. Items to search for might include specific flowers, bird species, or natural objects that resemble Easter eggs.
Canoeing and Kayaking Excursions
Texas rivers and lakes offer serene settings for Easter weekend paddling adventures. The Colorado River near Austin provides calm waters suitable for beginners and families.
Caddo Lake State Park, with its mysterious cypress swamps, is ideal for experienced kayakers seeking a unique Easter outing. Guided tours are available for those unfamiliar with the area.
Many outfitters offer special Easter weekend packages, including sunrise paddle trips and picnic-and-paddle combos. Some even incorporate egg hunts accessible only by water, adding an exciting twist to traditional celebrations.
Culinary Celebrations
Easter in Texas offers a mouthwatering array of culinary delights. From indulgent brunch spreads to savory barbecue feasts and sweet chocolate tours, the Lone Star State serves up festive flavors for every palate.
Easter Brunch Specials
Many Texas restaurants pull out all the stops for Easter brunch. Popular spots like Fearing’s in Dallas and Arlo Grey in Austin craft special holiday menus featuring seasonal ingredients and creative twists on classics. Expect dishes like honey-glazed ham, deviled eggs with caviar, and spring vegetable frittatas.
Brunch buffets are common, allowing diners to sample a wide variety of dishes. The Hilton Anatole in Dallas hosts an extravagant spread with carving stations, seafood displays, and made-to-order omelets. For a Texas twist, look for brunch offerings that incorporate regional flavors like jalapeño cornbread or Gulf shrimp and grits.
Reservations are strongly recommended, as Easter brunch is a popular tradition. Many venues offer special activities for children, such as egg hunts or visits from the Easter Bunny.
Texas Barbecue and Potluck Gatherings
Easter provides the perfect excuse for Texans to fire up the grill and gather with loved ones. Backyard barbecues and community potlucks are common, featuring slow-smoked brisket, sausages, and ribs alongside traditional sides like potato salad and coleslaw.
Churches and community centers often host potluck lunches after Easter services. These events showcase a variety of homemade dishes, from deviled eggs to coconut cream pies. It’s a chance to taste authentic Texas home cooking and connect with neighbors.
For those seeking professional barbecue, many renowned Texas pitmasters offer special Easter packages. Places like Franklin Barbecue in Austin and Pecan Lodge in Dallas prepare family-sized meals for takeout, complete with all the fixings.
Chocolate and Sweets Tours
Easter is prime time for chocolate lovers in Texas. Several cities offer guided tours of local chocolatiers and candy shops, allowing visitors to sample artisanal treats and learn about the chocolate-making process.
In Dallas, the Chocolate Secrets tour takes participants through the Bishop Arts District, stopping at gourmet chocolate shops and bakeries. Highlights include hand-painted bonbons and chocolate-dipped strawberries.
Austin’s Sweet Tooth Tours feature visits to multiple dessert destinations. Participants can try everything from chocolate truffles to cupcakes and gelato. Many shops create special Easter-themed confections, such as chocolate bunnies and egg-shaped truffles.
For a unique experience, some Texas wineries pair chocolate tastings with their wines. Places like Becker Vineyards in Fredericksburg offer special Easter weekend events combining wine flights with artisanal chocolates.
Art and Cultural Experiences
Texas offers a vibrant array of Easter-themed art and cultural experiences. Visitors can immerse themselves in creative exhibits, enjoy musical performances, and participate in hands-on workshops across the state.
Easter-Themed Art Exhibits
Several museums and galleries showcase special Easter exhibitions. The Dallas Museum of Art presents a collection of religious paintings depicting the Resurrection. In Houston, the Museum of Fine Arts features contemporary interpretations of Easter symbols. San Antonio’s McNay Art Museum displays a series of intricate Easter egg designs from around the world.
Local artists contribute to pop-up galleries in Austin, showcasing Easter-inspired sculptures and installations. These exhibits often incorporate traditional Texan elements, blending Western and Easter themes. Many venues offer guided tours, providing insight into the artistic techniques and cultural significance of the displayed works.
Musical Performances and Concerts
Easter weekend brings a variety of musical events across Texas. The Houston Symphony performs Handel’s “Messiah” at Jones Hall, a beloved Easter tradition. In Dallas, the Meyerson Symphony Center hosts an Easter Sunday concert featuring classical and contemporary pieces.
Austin’s live music scene embraces the holiday with outdoor concerts in Zilker Park. Local and national artists perform a mix of gospel, country, and folk music. San Antonio’s River Walk comes alive with mariachi bands playing traditional Easter songs.
Many churches organize special Easter cantatas and choral performances. These events often feature local choirs and soloists, presenting a range of sacred music from various Christian traditions.
Craft and Artisan Workshops
Interactive workshops allow visitors to create their own Easter-themed art. The Kimbell Art Museum in Fort Worth offers egg decorating classes using traditional Ukrainian pysanky techniques. Children and adults can learn intricate designs and symbolism.
In Austin, local ceramics studios host pottery workshops where participants can make Easter-themed tableware. San Antonio’s Fiesta Arts Fair includes demonstrations by Texas artisans, teaching traditional crafts like quilting and woodcarving with Easter motifs.
Many community centers organize family-friendly craft sessions. These often include activities like Easter bonnet making, spring wreath creation, and painting workshops focused on Easter landscapes and still lifes.
Shopping and Festive Markets
Texas offers a variety of Easter-themed shopping experiences and festive markets. Visitors can find unique gifts, local crafts, and seasonal treats at special events across the state.
Easter Bonnet and Fashion Bazaars
Easter bonnet and fashion bazaars pop up in many Texas cities during the spring season. These events showcase local designers and milliners offering stylish hats, dresses, and accessories perfect for Easter celebrations.
Dallas hosts an annual Easter Bonnet Parade and Bazaar featuring a competition for the most creative headwear. Attendees can browse vendor stalls selling handcrafted bonnets, spring fashion, and Easter-themed accessories.
In Houston, the Galleria mall organizes an Easter Fashion Showcase with local boutiques displaying their latest spring collections. Shoppers can find everything from pastel dresses to seersucker suits for their Easter Sunday best.
Local Craft and Farmer’s Markets
Many Texas communities organize special Easter editions of their regular craft and farmer’s markets. These events feature local artisans selling handmade Easter decorations, gifts, and seasonal produce.
The Pearl Farmers Market in San Antonio holds an Easter Eggstravaganza with vendors offering fresh spring vegetables, artisanal chocolates, and hand-painted Easter eggs. Families can enjoy live music and Easter-themed craft demonstrations.
Austin’s SFC Farmers’ Market Downtown transforms into an Easter Bazaar, showcasing local farms’ spring harvests alongside crafters selling Easter baskets, decorative wreaths, and spring-themed home decor.
Antique and Collectible Fairs
Easter-themed antique and collectible fairs attract enthusiasts looking for vintage decorations and rare Easter memorabilia. These events often feature dealers specializing in holiday collectibles.
The Round Top Antiques Fair, held in spring, includes a special Easter Collectibles Pavilion. Visitors can find vintage Easter postcards, antique chocolate molds, and rare porcelain figurines.
Fort Worth’s Vintage Easter Market brings together dealers offering retro Easter decor, mid-century Easter baskets, and vintage spring fashion. Collectors can discover unique pieces to add to their Easter displays or wardrobes.
Giving Back to the Community
Easter in Texas offers numerous opportunities to make a positive impact while celebrating the holiday. Residents and visitors can participate in volunteer activities and charity events that support local causes.
Volunteering Opportunities
Many Texas communities organize Easter-themed volunteer projects. Food banks often seek helpers to pack and distribute holiday meals to families in need. Local shelters welcome volunteers to serve Easter dinners or organize egg hunts for residents.
Churches and community centers recruit volunteers to assist with their Easter events, such as assembling treat bags or setting up decorations. Some organizations coordinate visits to nursing homes, bringing Easter cheer to elderly residents through music, crafts, or companionship.
Animal shelters sometimes host special adoption events during Easter weekend, providing a chance to help find homes for pets.
Charity Fun Runs and Walks
Easter-themed charity runs and walks combine fitness with fundraising across Texas. These events often feature bunny-ear headbands, egg-shaped medals, and festive costumes to embrace the holiday spirit.
The Easter Paws Run, held annually, invites participants and their dogs to complete a 1.75-mile course. Proceeds typically benefit local animal welfare organizations.
Some cities organize “Hop for Hope” 5K runs, raising funds for children’s charities or medical research. Participants often receive Easter-themed t-shirts and enjoy post-race celebrations with refreshments and family activities.
Virtual charity runs have also gained popularity, allowing people to participate from any location while supporting worthy causes.
Tips for Enjoying Easter in Texas
Plan ahead for popular events. Many Easter activities in Texas fill up quickly, so make reservations or purchase tickets in advance when possible.
Dress appropriately for the weather. Spring in Texas can be unpredictable, so check the forecast and bring layers.
Pack sunscreen and bug spray. Outdoor events are common, and protection from the sun and insects will keep everyone comfortable.
Bring baskets for egg hunts. Many events provide baskets, but having your own ensures you’re prepared.
Arrive early to secure parking and good spots. Popular events can draw large crowds, especially on Easter weekend.
Consider attending events on days other than Easter Sunday. This can help avoid the busiest times and largest crowds.
Pack snacks and water. While many events offer food, having your own supplies can save time and money.
Wear comfortable shoes. Easter activities often involve walking or standing for extended periods.
Bring a camera to capture memories. Many events feature photo opportunities with the Easter Bunny or spring-themed backdrops.
Be respectful of others and follow event rules. This ensures a pleasant experience for everyone attending Easter celebrations.