Top Texas Events in September – Fairs, Festivals & Unforgettable Fun

These are the iconic, can't-miss events that happen every year in Texas. While specific dates and performers change, the unforgettable experience does not.

🎡 The Biggest & Best Annual Events in September

State Fair of Texas — Dallas

• The Vibe: A larger-than-life Texas tradition. A whirlwind of neon lights, incredible food, livestock shows, and pure, unadulterated fun.

• Why You Can't Miss It:

  • Big Tex: Greet the iconic, 55-foot-tall talking cowboy who has welcomed fairgoers for decades.

  • Fried Food Paradise: The fair is famous for its culinary creativity. From Fletcher's Original Corny Dogs to the year's newest deep-fried concoctions, come hungry.

  • The Midway: A classic midway with thrilling rides, carnival games, and the iconic Texas Star Ferris wheel offering amazing views of downtown Dallas.

  • College Football: Experience the electric atmosphere of the State Fair Classic or the Red River Showdown at the historic Cotton Bowl Stadium right in the middle of the fairgrounds.

• Insider's Tip: Go on a weekday to avoid the largest crowds. Buy your food and ride coupons online in advance to save time. The fair typically starts on the last Friday of September.

• Official Link: https://www.bigtex.com

GrapeFest — Grapevine

• The Vibe: The largest wine festival in the Southwest. A four-day celebration of Texas wine, food, and family fun in the charming historic town of Grapevine.

• Why You Can't Miss It:

  • The People's Choice Wine Tasting Classic: Sample dozens of Texas wines and vote for your favorite.

  • GrapeStomp: Kick off your shoes and stomp grapes, just like in the old days. It’s a hilarious and fun photo opportunity.

  • Unique Wine Experiences: Explore wines from guest regions around the world in addition to the best from Texas.

  • Live Music & Food: Enjoy multiple stages of live entertainment and a wide array of festival food.

• Insider's Tip: Book accommodations early, as the entire town fills up for this event. Use the festival's shuttle service to avoid parking headaches.

• Official Link: https://www.grapevinetexasusa.com/grapefest/

• The Vibe: A quirky and captivating celebration of one of Texas's greatest mysteries, set against the backdrop of the minimalist West Texas desert art scene.

• Why You Can't Miss It:

  • The Mystery: The festival centers around viewing the unexplained "Marfa Lights" that dance on the horizon. A dedicated viewing platform provides the best vantage point.

  • Small-Town Charm: The event includes a downtown parade, live music, and food vendors, bringing the whole eccentric town of Marfa together.

  • Art & Culture: It's the perfect excuse to explore Marfa's famous art installations, from the Chinati Foundation to Prada Marfa.

• Insider's Tip: The festival typically happens over Labor Day weekend. Lodging is extremely limited in Marfa; book your hotel or Airbnb many months in advance.

• Official Link: https://www.marfachamberofcommerce.org/marfa-lights-festival

Marfa Lights Festival — Marfa

World Heritage Festival —

San Antonio

• The Vibe: A cultural and historical celebration of San Antonio's unique status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Why You Can't Miss It:

  • Tour de las Misiones: Participate in a bike ride, run, or walk that connects the four historic Spanish colonial missions.

  • Music & Culinary Events: Enjoy special events that showcase the authentic food, music, and culture of San Antonio.

  • Living History: It’s a unique opportunity to engage with the history of these incredible sites in a fun, interactive way.

• Insider's Tip: Many of the events are free. Check the schedule for special after-hours tours or events at the missions.

• Official Link: https://www.worldheritagefestival.org

Oktoberfest — Fredericksburg

• The Vibe: The heart of the Texas Hill Country transforms into a slice of Bavaria, celebrating its deep German heritage with beer, sausage, and polka music.

• Why You Can't Miss It:

  • German Tradition: Enjoy authentic German food, a massive selection of beers, and the sounds of oompah bands.

  • Family Fun: The event includes art and crafts, a kids' area, and the hilarious Hauptstrasse Chicken Dance.

  • Hill Country Setting: It takes place in the beautiful town of Fredericksburg, known for its shopping, wineries, and German architecture.

• Insider's Tip: This event usually falls on the cusp of September and October. Dress the part—don your lederhosen or dirndl to fully embrace the spirit!

• Official Link: https://www.oktoberfestinfbg.com

Levitation — Austin

• The Vibe: A world-renowned, expertly curated music festival focused on psych-rock, indie, dream pop, and experimental music.

• Why You Can't Miss It:

  • The Music: It’s a music lover’s festival. The lineups consistently feature a stellar mix of legendary acts and rising stars from around the globe.

  • Austin Venues: Unlike single-location festivals, Levitation often takes place across multiple iconic music venues in downtown Austin, allowing you to experience the city's live music scene.

• Insider's Tip: While the festival has traditionally been in the fall (sometimes October/November), its timing can vary. Check the official site for the year's dates. Buy tickets early as it often sells out.

• Official Link: https://www.levitation.fm

💬 Join the Texas Adventure Community

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Your September Adventure Awaits

September in Texas is a vibrant tapestry of culture, food, music, and tradition. It’s a month where you can eat a corny dog for lunch, stomp grapes in the afternoon, and watch mysterious lights dance in the desert at night. So, pick an event, hit the road, and go experience the unique spirit of a Texas September.