Top fall events in Texas

October 11, 2017

In Texas, we suffer through the hot summer months to get to the golden season of fall, the time of year when being outside feels wonderful and outdoor events are plentiful. This fall promises to be one of the best ones yet, featuring a variety of diverse culinary and entertainment events sure to please just about anyone. Learn more about some upcoming Texas fall festivals and more!

Hit up the fun in Houston

Anyone who has been to Houston knows that it is a food-lover’s paradise, and this is reflected in the number of fall festivals the city hosts that are dedicated to eating. From food truck festivals to weekends celebrating heritage, Houston is the place to find nearly any type of cuisine. This fall, the city isn’t disappointing with its food-centric events. On Saturday, October 21, come hungry for unlimited taco samples at the 3rd annual Tacolandia. This event for those who love tacos—and who doesn’t?—tends to sell out, so be sure to get your tickets in advance.

For a delicious way to raise money for charity, consider Eat BBQ, Raise Money, which will take place on Sunday, October 22. Your ticket purchase gets you unlimited BBQ, beer and wine, and all proceeds go toward Hurricane Harvey relief.

You can have fun with the whole family at the Texas Renaissance Festival, which is open on weekends through November 26. It is one of the most fun Houston fall festivals each year. See a variety of performers, such as magicians, jugglers, dancers and more; shop for unique wares and handmade art from hundreds of vendors; and try themed food and drinks.

Every November, Houston hosts one of the biggest shopping events of the year with The Nutcracker Market. On November 9-12, vendors from across the country come together to bring you unique gift items, including home decor, novelties, jewelry, toys and more.

Autumn happenings in Austin

You can always count on Austin to keep it weird—in fact, that is what so many love about it. Culture is one area where Austin is definitely not lacking, and this is true this fall as much as any other time of year. Experience the thrill that speed can bring at the 2017 Formula 1 United States Grand Prix on October 20-22 in Austin. Not only will you get to enjoy the high-octane rush that comes from racing, you can also see performances by Justin Timberlake and Stevie Wonder.

Barbecue is a year-round Texas tradition, but the fall brings one of the state’s best offerings with the Texas Monthly BBQ Fest Weekend on Sunday, November 5 from 1-4 pm. Bask in the cool October weather while you relax on the lawn and enjoy cold beer, good music and, of course, some of the best brisket around.

Want to alleviate some of the guilt you are sure to feel from stuffing yourself at Thanksgiving? Participate in a 27-year Austin tradition, the ThunderCloud Subs Turkey Trot. The largest five-mile run in Texas benefits Caritas of Austin.

Step out in San Antonio

Discover a true San Antonio experience with the Bud Light Haunted River, an evening the whole family can enjoy on the city’s famous Downtown River Walk. Delight in the ghouls and goblins that may pop out along the way, groove to the music and participate in a costume contest.

Celebrate traditional art and culture at Dia de Los Muertos, a two-day destination event to celebrate Day of the Dead. This free event, which will take place October 28-29, will have original artwork, live poetry, and puppet procession and much more.

Do it right in Dallas

Want to dress up and eat good food at the same time? Head over to The Longhorn Ballroom for Fall-O-Ween on October 27-28. Enjoy food and drinks from Knife, Meso Maya and Tillman’s Roadhouse. The event will offer both vegan and vegetarian options and encourages you to wear your costume!

If getting down and grooving is your thing, check out the Dallas Dance Festival in Irving, which takes place November 9-12. Get the chance to get some instruction from pros while also checking out some professional exhibitions.

Feast your eyes on some gorgeousness at The Lantern Fest on November 11 at the Texas Motorplex. Biodegradable lanterns are released into the night sky, creating a beautiful spectacle that everyone can enjoy together.

Explore all this and more over the coming months in Texas, before the rush of the holidays sets in! What are some of your favorite things to do in the fall? Let us know!