Experience the best of what the Lone Star State has to offer. From gorgeous blooming flowers and nature trails in the spring to holiday festivals in the winter, Texas packs a full calendar of events all year long, so you can always look forward to an exciting trip. Book a stay at one of many incredible vacation rentals in Texas today. Take a look at this guide of the Lone Star State’s top seasonal festivities and attractions to determine the ideal time to visit, as well as what to pack.
Visiting Texas in the Spring
Springtime in Texas brings stunning wildflowers that line the highways; the bluebonnet blooms are at their peak in early April. Birdwatchers flock to the state in April for Galveston Feather Fest and other bird festivals, and nature lovers revel in the vast opportunities for outdoor adventures. Look up Cowboy Charters in Surfside Beach if you’re ready to cast a line, or traverse the hiking trails at Medina River Natural Area if you’re staying in San Antonio. Spring brings an abundance of festivals and events, including the South by Southwest Music Festival in March, Fiesta San Antonio in April, and the National Polka Festival in May. The Sweetwater Rattlesnake Round-Up has occurred annually in March since 1958. Stop by to see the parade, watch snake-handling demonstrations, or try out deep-fried rattlesnake. Enter the chili and brisket cook-off, if you’re so inclined. Pick up all the ingredients you need at Brookshire’s or Lulu’s Super Mercado.
Texas temperatures are pleasant, usually in the 70s and 80s, but there’s a strong possibility of rain during these months, so be sure to pack your raincoat, galoshes, and an umbrella.
Visiting Texas in the Summer
The summer heat in Texas makes water sports and water parks popular attractions. Take the family to Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark, ride the serpentine slides at Typhoon Texas in Katy, or splash around in the 1-million-gallon wave pool at Six Flags Hurricane Harbor in Arlington. If you’re staying near Dallas, visit Flyboard North Texas for water sports equipment rentals. June brings the Luling Watermelon Thump, July ushers in the Great Texas Mosquito Festival, and August is time for the North Texas State Fair. The Texas International Fishing Tournament, held on South Padre Island in late summer, is one of the top billfish tournaments in the world. Grab any last-minute bait, tackle, or gear at Jim’s Pier.
Summer temperatures in Texas typically reach the mid-90s, and humidity levels are often very high, causing locals and visitors alike to describe the climate as “stifling” or even “oppressive.” Be sure to bring lots of water for any outdoor activities.
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Visiting Texas in the Fall
As fall descends upon the South Central United States, residents gear up for the Texas State Fair. Spanning three weeks, this Texas-sized event includes carnival rides, an auto show, art competitions, and the Red River Shoot-out, the annual football game between the University of Texas and the University of Oklahoma. While the humidity dies down in the fall, the weather is still right for most outdoor activities. If you’re staying in San Antonio, don’t miss sightseeing at the Alamo Mission, and be sure to check out the shops along the San Antonio River Walk. Enjoy lunch at Casa Rio along the water, then do some shopping at Villa Tesoros and Bonita Rita’s. Exciting fall events in Texas include the Houston Hot Sauce Festival in September, Texas Renaissance Festival in October, and multiple Thanksgiving parades across the state in November.
Temperatures in the Lone Star State are much easier to bear as summer fades to fall. Averages are in the 70s and 80s, dipping into the 60s near the end of the season. Pack a mix of short- and long-sleeved tops for your trip, and consider a light jacket if you’re coming in November.
Visiting Texas in the Winter
Wintertime still provides lots of opportunities to enjoy activities in Texas. George Washington’s birthday in February brings hundreds of thousands of visitors to Laredo for the annual celebration, which includes parades, fireworks, concerts, a carnival, and an air show. Milder days are still perfect for golf, so consider The Rawls Course in Lubbock or Slick Rock on Horseshoe Bay. Dickens on the Strand in Galveston falls in December, ushering in the holiday season with a Victorian-inspired festival. January brings the Cotton Bowl, and February features the San Antonio Livestock Show and Rodeo.
Texas winters aren’t typically white, but you might see a few snowflakes during your stay. Temperatures typically rest in the 50s and 60s in the winter months, but they can dip below freezing, so be sure to pack your gloves and scarf just to be safe.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Texas?
While every season in Texas has its perks, fall seems to be the best time to enjoy all that the state has to offer. The Dallas Cowboys are kicking off the season, so football fans can score tickets to a game at AT&T Stadium in Arlington. With the stifling heat of the summer in the rearview, it’s much easier to enjoy outdoor activities. Since summer is peak travel season in Texas, rental rates soar, but fall makes way for less tourist traffic and lower rates on vacation rentals. The season abounds with festivals and attractions to keep you busy, including the ever-popular Texas State Fair.
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