Must-See Events in Texas

Every year, there is a different theme for Texas's celebrated state fair. Since the first fair in 1886, the event has drawn the state together at Fair Park, a National Historic Landmark. Over 24 days, representatives from nearly every discipline are represented. Attractions include the appearance of Big Tex, the fair's blimp-like mascot; a heated college football tournament; and a BMX bike show.

Bring the family to this exciting outdoor festival, which was originally hosted by renowned country music singer Willie Nelson. Dating back to 1972, the event is ideal for young cowboys and girls, as it is set on a ranch and features leading local and international country music stars.

Many argue that this is the sweetest part of Texan summers. Your whole family (including pets) is invited to the festival of frozen yogurt and indulgent iced treats made following traditions that hail from near and far. It's the most delicious way to cool down in summertime's sticky heat. Look out over Lady Bird Lake and enjoy the shaded spots in Fiesta Gardens.

On three consecutive summer days, the people of Texas gather together to celebrate their Czech heritage. This open-air festival features a plenitude of traditional foods along with polka music and dancing. Try sauerkraut and sausages and get involved in the parade, which winds through the city of Ennis. Bands and buskers perform traditional Czech tunes at this huge festival, which draws fifty thousand revelers.

August augurs the end of summer, but the fish are biting. Fishing fans from across the state gather to fish on the sparkling waters of Laguna Madre Bay, Port Isabel, and South Padre Island. Over 10,000 spectators await their hauls on land and are not disappointed. Anglers young and old reel in redfish, flounder, perch, and trout, with a trophy for the winner.

Each October, Tyler becomes the site of the state's most fragrant festival. Conceived to support the growing rose economy in Texas, the festival attracts thousands. Central to the three-day event is the Rose Queen, who presides over the festival, attired in regal gowns. It's one of Texas's oldest and best-loved events.

First up on this list of must-see events in Texas is the South by Southwest Festival, where film and music crossover. More than a music festival, this mega festival also combines film, making for a unique experience that showcases the internationally renowned creative fire of Austin. What's more, the festival takes place in a plethora of venues hidden throughout the city and features over 1,000 artists from 63 countries around the world. It's the ideal entry into the vast and vivacious Austin music scene.

Another famed Austin musical event, Austin City Limits has expanded rapidly since its inception, and now fills eight stages across two weekends. Over 140 bands from a variety of genres play at the festival each year, which draws crowds of thousands to the city. Meanwhile, the ACL Food Court serves up the best of local cuisine, so you can tour the city in a single sweep. Don't miss the Art Market, with its kids' zone and photo booths.

If you're looking for a festival outside of Austin, try River City Rockfest in San Antonio. Located in the historic Alamo, the AT&T Center becomes a mecca for rock 'n' roll pilgrims from around the world. International A-listers such as Slipknot and Disturbed have headlined this rockin' summer festival.