Without a doubt, Valentine's Day is what most people think about when February comes to mind. Well, that and cold weather. But, while Texas certainly has plenty do see and do for a Valentine's Day vacation (more on that below), there is actually a fairly diverse activity and event offering in the Lone Star State during the second month of the year.
That said, Valentine's Day is certainly the headline occasion in Texas during February and is a popular reason for a quick get-away to the Lone Star State. A number of hotels and resorts in Texas offer special Valentine packages for those who want a one-stop type of trip. Some of the state's more romantic regions, such as the Texas Hill Country and the Gulf Coast, draw quite a few visitors - both 'do-it-yourself' vacation planners as well as those looking for inclusive packages. And, just about every region of Texas boasts a town or city that is a perfect spot for a Texas Valentine's vacation.
But, again, February is far from a single event month in Texas. There are several events, activities and happenings across the state this month. Most of these fall into a few categories. The largest category, not only in the number of events but also in the sheer number of visitors at those events, is running events. Among the largest and most popular running events held in Texas during February are the Livestrong Austin Marathon and the Cowtown Marathon in Ft Worth. The Cowtown Marathon actually encompasses numerous events - USA T&F certified marathon and half-marathon, three-person relay marathon, USA T&F certified 10k and 5k for adults, and a USA T&F certified 5k for kids. The Livestrong Austin Marathon is one of the most scenic races in Texas, with nearly half the course being run along Town Lake and the Colorado River. The rolling hills of Austin also make this one of the more challenging races offered in the Lone Star State.
And, although most of the state's boat and fishing shows were held in January, there are still boat shows being held in February. Among the largest of the boat and fishing shows held in the year's second month is the Dallas Boat Show, which covers the first two weekends of February. The Dallas Boat Show is held at the Dallas Market.
While boat show season is beginning to wind down in February, "stock show season" is just getting started. The largest stock show held in Texas during February is actually the state's second largest event of that kind - the San Antonio Livestock Show and Rodeo. In addition to a giant stock show, the San Antonio Livestock Show and Rodeo features live professional rodeo performances, concerts, a horse show, a family fair and carnival, and much, much more.
February is also a month that sees some of Texas' most unique annual events. Galveston's Mardi Gras is one of the year's most anticipated events. Lasting 12 days and 11 nights, the Galveston Mardi Gras is packed with parades and parties and is one of the largest events of its kind in the United States. On the opposite side of the Texas coast, Brownsville hosts its annual Charro Days event each February. Held annually since 1938, Charro Days is a weeklong celebration of the cooperative spirit between the United States and Mexico. Charro Days is packed with dances, parades, and other fun events held in downtown Brownsville throughout the week.
So, while it is true February weather can often be less than perfect, the month is filled with a variety of events and activities, any of which is a good excuse to take a trip to Texas.
