Best Texas Summer Festivals for 2023

Written By Timothy Te

Discover > Truly Texan > Best Texas Summer Festivals for 2023

Welcome to the vibrant world of Texas Fairs and Festivals 2023! Get ready to experience an exciting array of music, culture, cuisine, and entertainment as the Lone Star State comes alive with an impressive lineup of events in 2023. From the bustling streets of Austin to the coastal delights of Galveston and the charming towns nestled in the Hill Country, Texas offers an eclectic mix of festivals that cater to every taste and interest. Whether you're a music enthusiast, a food lover, an art aficionado, or simply seeking a memorable summer adventure, summer and fall festivals in Texas 2023 have something special in store for you.

Are there any festivals near me or craft shows near me? Join us as we explore the best Texas summer festivals for 2023, where you'll find yourself immersed in the rich tapestry of Texan traditions, boundless creativity, and unforgettable moments of joy. Get ready to dance to the rhythm, savor the flavors, and create lasting memories at these incredible festivals that showcase the true spirit of Texas.

Summer at the Arboretum

Dallas, TX

Summer at the Arboretum, held in the beautiful 66-acre Dallas garden, is a highlight of the season. Not only can you stroll among uplifting sculptures by Gary Lee Price, but you can also listen to live music and enjoy incredible performances. The horticulture staff has planted over 65,000 new plantings, including 300 tropical elephant ears and 500 cannas, creating the iconic summer look of the Arboretum. And if that's not enough, the Dallas Arboretum has been named one of the "21 Top Things to Do in Texas" by U.S. News & World Report. Make sure to visit Summer at the Arboretum from June 3 to August 6 and check out all the other amazing festivals happening around Texas this summer.

Date: June 3 to August 6, 2023
Time: 9:00 AM until 5:00 PM
Location: Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, 8525 Garland Road, Dallas, TX, 75218
Website: https://www.dallasarboretum.org/events-activities/summer/
Cost: Regular admission in June: $20 adults, $16 seniors, $12 children, under 2 free. July admission is $5, and August is $3.
Ages: All ages

Blanco Lavender Festival

Blanco, TX

One festival you won't want to miss is the Blanco Lavender Festival in Blanco, TX. Known as Texas' first commercial lavender farm, you'll be surrounded by fields of blooming lavender as you peruse the Lavender Market located on the grounds of the historic Old Blanco County Courthouse. Bindseil Park will offer live music performances, while the TEXAS MADE tent will satisfy your taste buds with various specialty packaged foods, regional wines, and local beer. And if you need a break, you can relax with a cold beer or glass of wine as you soak up the festival atmosphere. Get ready for a summer of fun and relaxation at the Blanco Lavender Festival.

Date: June 9 to June 11, 2023
Time: Friday, NOON - 6:00 PM / Saturday, 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM / Sunday, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Location: Market: 300 Main Street, Blanco TX 78606, Farm: 8241 FM 165, Blanco TX 78606
Website: https://www.blancolavenderfest.com
Cost: Parking is $5.00 per car. Admission to the farm and market is free.
Ages: All ages

33rd Annual Texas Blueberry Festival

Nacogdoches, TX

Looking for a sweet and tasty way to spend your summer? Look no further than the Texas Blueberry Festival! This annual celebration of all things blueberry is a feast for your taste buds and your senses. Held on June 10, 2023, in Nacogdoches, this festival is the perfect way to get your fruit fix and enjoy a day-long party in the heart of Texas. With over 19,000 attendees expected, you're sure to meet some new friends while you indulge in everything from live music to auto exhibits to blueberry picking. Whether you're a local or just visiting for the weekend, the Texas Blueberry Festival is a must-see event for anyone who loves good food, good times, and summer fun!

Date: June 10, 2023
Time: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Location: Charles Bright Visitors Center - 200 E. Main St., Nacogdoches TX 75961
Website: https://tbf.nacogdoches.org
Cost: This is a free event
Ages: All ages

Peach JAMboree and Rodeo

Stonewall, TX

It’s peach season in Texas! So, get ready for some sweet, juicy fun at the Peach JAMboree and Rodeo in Stonewall, TX! Celebrate the 62nd annual peach crop with a weekend full of activities and events. From peach judging to crowning the Peach Queen, this festival has it all. Enjoy a parade, peach eating contest, pit spitting, rodeo, and even mutton bustin'! And when the sun goes down, get ready to dance the night away to live musicians (TBA) on Friday and Saturday nights. But the festivities don't stop there - head to the free slack rodeo on Thursday night and finish off your weekend with free daytime activities on Saturday. Tickets are available at the event ticket window and online, and don't forget to indulge in some delicious concessions while you're at it. Check out their website for a full schedule of events and get ready to experience the ultimate peachy summer celebration!

Date: June 15 to June 17, 2023
Time: Gates open on Thurs at 8:00 PM; Fri at 6:00 PM and Sat at 10:00 AM
Location: Stonewall Chamber of Commerce Grounds,250 Peach Street, Stonewall, TX 78671
Website: https://stonewalltexas.com/peach-jamboree/
Cost: Adults $25 on Fri and Sat; kids ages 2 to 12 $5 on Fri and Sat; weekend pass $40.
Ages: All ages

Juneteenth Festival

Galveston, TX

Summer in Texas is all about festivals, and one you won't want to miss in 2023 is the Juneteenth Festival in Galveston, TX! Taking place on the historical grounds of the McGuire Dent Recreational Center, now known as Menard Park, this free event is perfect for the whole family. Enjoy great food, live music, and a unique shopping experience at the vendor entrepreneurs showcase marketplace. And don't forget about the prestigious 2023 Juneteenth of Men of Purpose Awards, honoring accomplished men who have made meaningful contributions to their communities. Bring your lawn chairs, but leave the personal coolers at home – this festival has everything you need for a fun and fulfilling day out. Come celebrate the rich history and vibrant culture of Texas at the 2023 Juneteenth Festival!

Date: June 17, 2023
Time: 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Location: McGuire Dent Recreational Center, 2222 28th St, Galveston, Texas 77550
Website: https://www.visitgalveston.com/events/juneteenth-festival-1/
Cost: Free
Ages: All ages

CineMarfa

Marfa, TX

Get ready for a unique cinematic experience at CineMarfa, one of the most highly anticipated summer festivals in Marfa, Texas! Founded on the principle of showcasing artfully crafted films that typically find their home in galleries and museums, CineMarfa offers a refreshing change from the usual blockbusters dominating the cinema landscape. Past events have boasted a roster of talented artists and performers, such as the legendary Harmony Korine, Cat Power, and Larry Clark, among others. The festival's focus on screening unusual and rare archival, experimental, documentary, and narrative cinema creates a rich tapestry of sights and sounds for festival-goers to explore. So, if you're looking for a summer fest that offers something out of the ordinary, don't miss CineMarfa!

Date: June 15 to June 18, 2023
Location: Crowley Theater, Maria, TX
Website: https://www.cinemarfa.org
Cost: All festival screenings and events are free and open to the public.
Ages: Screenings are available for both kids and adults

Juneteenth Celebration

Bastrop, TX

The Bastrop Juneteenth Celebration is one of the standouts among the many exciting Texas summer festivals for 2023. With 36 years of history behind it, this festival is an important commemoration of the emancipation of African Americans, and a celebration of local Black achievements. It all kicks off with a lively parade down Main Street, followed by an exciting day of activities, including music, food, and a range of fun contests and challenges for the whole family. The evening comes to a close with a special musical guest, rounding out a full day of fun and celebration. If you're looking for an event that's rich in history, culture, and joyful spirit, the Bastrop Juneteenth Celebration is not to be missed.

Date: June 15 to June 17, 2023
Time: 10:00 AM
Location: Bastrop Main Street and Fisherman's Park, Bastrop, TX
Website: http://bastropjuneteenthcelebration.com
Cost: This s a free event
Ages: All ages


Salado Springs Craft Beer Festival

Salado, TX

Start planning your summer vacation now because you won't want to miss out on the Salado Springs Craft Beer Festival. This festival is the perfect opportunity for beer lovers to enjoy a variety of local brews while basking in the beautiful Texas summer weather. Take a break from your routine and join fellow craft beer enthusiasts for a day full of fun and camaraderie. The festival in Salado includes over a dozen independent Central Texas craft brewers, live music performances, creekside activities, and much more. The Salado Springs Craft Beer Festival is an annual event that brings together the community for a day of brotherhood and fellowship. So grab your tickets and make your way to Salado for a day of delicious drinks and unforgettable memories.

Date: June 17, 2023
Time: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Location: Barrow Brewing Co, 108 Royal Street, Salado, TX 76571
Website: https://barrowbrewing.com/salado-springs-beer-fest
Cost: General Admission to the beer festival is free. Only VIPs will have access to the taproom and additional perks.
Ages: VIPs must be 21+. ID's will be checked. Children will not be allowed inside.

Luling Watermelon Thump

Luling, TX

Looking for a juicy way to enjoy your Texas summer? Look no further than the Luling Watermelon Thump! This small town festival may be big on celebration, but it's the watermelons that really steal the show. With events like melon judging, eating contests, and seed spitting contests, you're sure to get your fill of sweet, juicy goodness. And if you're more of a spectator, there's no shortage of entertainment on offer with live music, carnival rides, and a coronation of the Thump Queen. So grab a slice of summertime fun and head on down to Luling for a festival you won't soon forget!

Date: June 22 to June 25, 2023
Location: Downtown Luling, 421 E. Davis St., Luling, Texas 78648
Website: http://newsite.watermelonthump.com
Cost: FREE admission; $20.00 - $40.00 concert tickets
Ages: All ages

Water Lantern Festival

Fort Worth, TX

Are you looking for a festival that combines beauty, connection, and magic? Look no further than the Water Lantern Festival! This floating lantern event is held in cities across the United States and offers a stunning display of lanterns adorned with heartfelt messages of love, hope, and dreams. With food, games, activities, vendors, and music, this festival in Fort Worth promises to be an unforgettable experience. Imagine thousands of lanterns reflecting upon the water, creating a sense of unity and wonder among festival-goers. Whether you attend alone or with loved ones, this festival is sure to leave a lasting impression and memories that will stay with you long after the event is over. Don't miss out on the chance to be a part of this magical evening at the Water Lantern Festival.

Date: June 24, 2023
Time: 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Location: Panther Island Pavilion, 395 Purcey St, Fort Worth, TX 76102
Website: http://waterlanternfestival.com/fortworth.php
Cost: $55.99 - Youth and other ticket options available
Ages: All ages

Rose City Airfest

Tyler, TX

If you're a fan of military aircraft and aviation history, then the Rose City Airfest in Tyler, TX is just the ticket. This family-friendly event pays tribute to our great nation and all the brave men and women who have served in the military. From vintage planes to modern fighter jets, the static display allows guests to get up close and personal with these amazing machines. And what's even better, some of the aircrafts allow visitors to climb right inside and experience what it's like to be a pilot. Don't forget to check out the vendors for some great souvenirs and delicious food to keep you fueled for all the fun and games at the festival. So, mark your calendars for Rose City Airfest, it's an event you don't want to miss.

Date: June 30, 2023
Time: 3:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Location: Metro Aviation, 2535 Dixie Dr. Tyler, Tx 75704
Website: https://www.campvtyler.org/rose-city-airfest/
Cost: 13 years and older: $35 pre-purchased / $40 Day of Event; 6-12 years old: $5; Children 5 and under: FREE
Ages: All ages

July Fourth Red, White and Free Festival

Bellville, TX

Celebrate Independence Day in true American fashion at the July Fourth Red, White and Free Festival. With a packed schedule of activities and entertainment, you'll never want the day to end. Bring the kids and watch them take part in the wagon and bike parade, get dunked in the dunk tank, and stuff their faces with delicious treats from the food trucks. And don't forget the live music! Dance the day away to your favorite tunes before the incredible fireworks display lights up the night sky. This festival in Bellville, TX truly encapsulates the spirit of summer and is not to be missed.

Date: July 4, 2023
Time: 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Location: 1076 Highway 159 East , Bellville, TX
Cost: This is a free event
Ages: All ages

75th McDade Watermelon Festival 2023

McDade, TX

Texas summers are full of fun and exciting festivals, and the 75th Jubilee Celebration of the McDade Watermelon Festival is certainly no exception. This charming community event takes place on the 2nd Saturday in July and offers a variety of activities for all ages. From watermelon contests to street dances, live music, a parade, and a riding mower rodeo, there is no shortage of entertainment. And for those looking to get active, there is even a 5K run! The festival culminates with a barbecue cookoff, which is sure to tantalize your taste buds. So why not come on out to McDade, Texas, and join in the festivities for an unforgettable summer experience.

Date: July 7 to July 8, 2023
Location: Downtown McDade, 565 Old Hwy 20, McDade, TX 78650
Website: https://explorebastropcounty.com/series/75th-mcdade-watermelon-festival-2023/
Cost: This is a free event
Ages: All ages

Parker County Peach Festival

Weatherford, TX

Get ready for a taste of the good old days at the Parker County Peach Festival, one of the best Texas summer festivals to check out in 2023. This festival, now in its 37th year, is a beloved event held in Historic Downtown Weatherford on the second Saturday in July. Last year, over 40,000 people attended the festival, which is packed with over 200 arts, crafts, food, and activity booths. The festival also features live music, children’s activities, a Peach Pedal Bike Ride, and even a "42" Domino Tourney. So mark your calendars for Saturday, July 8th, 2023, and get ready for a day filled with delicious peach treats and nostalgic fun!

Date: July 8, 2023
Time: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Location: Historic Downtown Weatherford, TX
Website: https://www.parkercountypeachfestival.org
Cost: Adult $10.00, Child (Ages 6-12) $5.00
Ages: All ages


Cheeseburger Festival

Friona, TX

One of the best summer festivals in Texas for 2023 is the Cheeseburger Festival. It is a seven-day event hosted in Friona, for everyone to enjoy. Starting with events for all ages, including archery, concerts in the park, Painting with a Twist, and the annual Bun Run and Walk, it builds up to the main attraction - the Cheeseburger Festival Cookoff. Here, visitors get the opportunity to indulge their taste buds with a variety of burgers and ultimately crown the winner of the Best Burger award, which comes with a generous prize of $1,000. Don't miss out on the fun and excitement of the Cheeseburger Festival in 2023.

Date: July 15, 2023
Time: 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Location: Reeve Lake and the Community Center
Website: https://www.cityoffriona.com/cheeseburgerfestival

Hatch Chile Festival

Grand Prairie, TX

Step right up, Texans! The summer of 2023 is nearly upon us, and with it, the promise of some of the best festivals the lone-star state offers. Of all the options, none can quite compete with the excitement of the Hatch Chile Festival. Taking place at the Grand Prairie Farmers Market, this festival allows attendees to stock up on the famous Hatch chiles, both raw and roasted, by the pound. And that's just the beginning. Along with this spicy treat, visitors can enjoy live music, food, drinks, and other offerings that will have them smiling from ear to ear. So, gather ye chile-peppers while ye may and make sure to save the date for this unbeatable festival!

Date: August 12, 2023
Location: 120 W. Main St., Grand Prairie, TX
Website: https://grandfungp.com/events/hatch-chile-festival/

 

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