You may be surprised to learn that Texas has quite a bustling art scene. From new age sculptures to watercolor outdoor scenes, traditional paintings, and installations, every type of art and artist can be found in the Lone Star State. Texas’ many art festivals are an excellent way to witness this art firsthand and support local artists in the community. Continue on to see a list of the top art festivals happening in Texas.
First Night Austin
Held each year on New Year’s Eve, First Night Austin includes an afternoon family festival, a procession down Congress Avenue, and a night-time art show. This unique festival also converts the street corners and storefronts into art galleries and stages to ring in the new year in style.
Tablerock Festival
The Tablerock Festival was founded in 1979 to promote cultural arts in Central Texas. Today, the festival retains its roots by offering a variety of seasonal performances in the historic Tablerock Amphitheater near Salado Creek.
Septemberfest
Held on the grounds of the Museum of the Southwest in Midland, Texas, Septemberfest features over 80 artists’ pieces that celebrate the beauty of the Lone Star State.
Burnet Art Festival
The Burnet Art Festival is a unique mix of a plein air competition, art festival, and art auction. Spend the weekend in the beautiful Texas Hill Country and enjoy three festivals combined into one.
Bayou City Art Festival
The Bayou City Art Festival is presented by the Art Colony Association, which provides unique art experiences and education for the greater Houston area by bringing diverse artists to urban Bayou City. Those artists include painters, musicians, dancers, and more, so don’t miss this lively annual festival.
Deep Ellum Arts Festival
The Deep Ellum Arts Festival is a free three-day event. Experience over 200 visual artists selling their original works and commissioning right on the spot. This festival also features 150 original bands and performance artists on six different stages. With so much offered and all free, this is a must for visitors to the area.
The Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival
Each year The Woodlands Arts Council presents The Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival, an annual fundraiser for the organization’s education and outreach programs. The festival features 225 renowned artists from around the globe, and over 15,000 people attend this highly rated weekend event each year.
Lubbock Arts Festival
Unlike the other festivals on this list, the Lubbock Arts Festival is held indoors. If crowds aren’t for you, attend the premiere night, where you can meet artists from around the country in person and purchase original artwork without the masses. The rest of the weekend can get busy, but it is also more family-friendly and includes children’s artworks and stage performances.
