Texas is comprised of people from a wide array of backgrounds and cultures. One benefit of this rich cultural diversity is the vast amount of varied cultural heritage festivals held across the state each year.
Danno WiseIn Mexico, the end of October marks a time-honored celebration known as Day of the Dead. Over time, the tradition has crept into the Mexican-influenced Texas border region. In fact, several towns across Deep South Texas now host their own version of the Day of the Dead celebration. One of the more unique events takes place in the historic South Texas seaport of Port Isabel.
The first Saturday of November each year sees the small town of George West host its annual Storyfest, which features a variety of storytellers offering renditions of folklore, cowboy tales, fables, legend and lore.
Staged each February since 1938, Brownsville's Charro Days is a weeklong, traditional Mexican pachanga, with parades, dances and a variety of fun events for the entire family.
Harlingen's Riofest is an annual celebration of art, music, food and culture of Deep South Texas. Artists from across the United States and Mexico cover the 40-acre festival with original artwork. Additionally, there are plenty of activities for the kids as well as live entertainment for everyone.
Texas has a rich German heritage, which explains the numerous Oktoberfest events across the Lone Star State. Anyone who enjoys German food, drink and music will certainly want to make plans to attend one of these events.
Because Texas was once part of Mexico, the state has a long-standing Mexican heritage and follows many Mexican traditions, including celebrating the popular Mexican holiday Cinco de Mayo. Although many people believe this is strictly a border-region phenomenon, towns across the state hold festivals to celebrate the most famous military victory in the history of Mexico.
Sponsored by the Institute of Texan Cultures, San Antonio's Texas Folklife Festival is an annual celebration of the diverse cultures that combine to make Texas unique. The festival features live music, costume, arts & crafts, and more.
Featuring a colorful Czech parade, live music, arts & crafts, a horseshoe tournament, traditional Czech foods, dancing and a 5k run, Ennis' annual National Polka Festival is the largest Czech heritage festival in the United States.
Claiming the title of "Largest Celtic Event in the Southwest," the North Texas Irish Festival is a three-day celebration featuring music, folk dancers, storytelling and educational programs. The event is held in Dallas' historic Fair Park.
For over 10 years, the annual Nine Flags Festival in Nacogdoches has celebrated the rich history and culture of Texas' oldest town.
