2025 Texas Festivals: Music, BBQ, and Lone Star Fun

_{[Cover Picture - Shelby Pipken / Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo]}

Everything’s bigger in Texas, and that includes its festivals. The Lone Star State is home to some of the most exciting and diverse festivals in the country, from massive music events to food fests celebrating the state’s famous BBQ. Whether you're a music lover, foodie, or culture seeker, 2025 will be packed with can’t-miss events across Texas. Here’s your guide to the best festivals happening in Texas in 2025.

1. South by Southwest (SXSW) (March 7-15, 2025)

Held annually in Austin, South by Southwest (SXSW) is one of the world’s biggest and most influential festivals, blending music, film, tech, and interactive media. Spanning over 10 days, SXSW transforms downtown Austin into a hub of creativity and innovation, attracting artists, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders from around the world. The 2025 edition will feature hundreds of live performances, film screenings, tech showcases, and panels discussing everything from AI to the latest trends in music. SXSW is a must for anyone looking to experience cutting-edge art and ideas.

How to Get There: SXSW takes over downtown Austin, accessible via car, rideshare, or public transit.

Tickets: Prices vary based on which part of the festival you want to attend. Music badges start around $500, while film and interactive passes cost more.

Must-See: The surprise concerts and pop-up events scattered around the city, where big-name artists often make unexpected appearances.

Local Tips: Austin gets crowded during SXSW, so book accommodations early and plan for long lines at popular venues.

2. Austin City Limits Music Festival (ACL) (October 3-5 & 10-12, 2025)

Also held in Austin, ACL is one of the biggest music festivals in the U.S., taking place over two weekends in the city's Zilker Park. Known for its incredible lineup that spans rock, pop, hip-hop, and more, ACL 2025 will feature over 100 bands across multiple stages. Past headliners have included artists like Billie Eilish, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Lizzo, so expect a similarly stacked lineup in 2025. The festival also features local food vendors, interactive art installations, and activities for all ages, making it a true celebration of music and culture.

How to Get There: Zilker Park is located in central Austin, easily accessible by rideshare, biking, or festival shuttles.

Tickets: General admission starts at $300 for a weekend pass, with VIP and Platinum options for those looking for a more elevated experience.

Must-See: The nightly headlining performances with the Austin skyline in the background—there’s nothing like it.

Local Tips: Dress comfortably for the Texas heat and pack sunscreen. The park can get dusty, so consider wearing closed-toe shoes.

3. Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo (February 25 - March 16, 2025)

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo isn’t just the largest livestock exhibition in the world—it’s also a massive music festival and cultural event. Over the course of three weeks, attendees can watch thrilling rodeo competitions, explore exhibitions, and enjoy nightly concerts featuring big names from country, pop, and rock music. The 2025 lineup is expected to include major country artists alongside crossover acts. Plus, there’s a carnival, BBQ cook-off, and all the fried food you could imagine.

How to Get There: The event takes place at NRG Stadium in Houston, accessible by car or public transport.

Tickets: Rodeo tickets start at around $20, with concert tickets available separately.

Must-See: The concerts under the stars, followed by rodeo competitions featuring some of the best bull riders in the world.

Local Tips: Don’t miss the BBQ cook-off—it’s one of the most delicious parts of the festival, with some of Texas’s best pitmasters showing off their skills.

4. Texas Renaissance Festival (October 11 - November 30, 2025)

Step back in time at the Texas Renaissance Festival, the nation’s largest Renaissance fair. Held just outside of Houston in Todd Mission, this festival offers eight weekends of medieval fun, featuring jousting, costumed performers, themed food and drinks, and artisans selling handmade crafts. Each weekend has a different theme, from pirate weekends to Celtic celebrations. It’s a family-friendly event, perfect for anyone wanting to immerse themselves in a world of fantasy, history, and fun.

How to Get There: Todd Mission is about an hour’s drive from Houston. Parking is available on-site.

Tickets: General admission starts at $30, with weekend passes available for those who want to attend multiple days.

Must-See: The jousting tournaments and live performances at the outdoor theaters throughout the fairgrounds.

Local Tips: Dress up in Renaissance attire to really get into the spirit! Costumes are encouraged, and there are shops on-site to help you perfect your look.

5. Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo (January 17 - February 8, 2025)

The Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo is one of Texas’s oldest and most iconic events, offering three weeks of rodeo action, livestock exhibitions, and family-friendly entertainment. With a mix of traditional rodeo events, horse shows, and concerts, the 2025 Stock Show promises to bring in thousands of visitors from across the state and beyond. Plus, the food vendors serve up some of the best Texas eats, from BBQ to Tex-Mex classics.

How to Get There: The event is held at the Will Rogers Memorial Center in Fort Worth, accessible by car or public transport.

Tickets: Rodeo tickets start at around $25, with various event packages available.

Must-See: The professional bull riding competitions and live music performances by Texas country artists.

Local Tips: Take time to explore the nearby Fort Worth Stockyards, a historic district known for its Old West charm and cattle drives.

6. Texas Book Festival (November 1-2, 2025)

Founded by former First Lady Laura Bush, the Texas Book Festival is one of the largest literary festivals in the country. Held in and around the Texas State Capitol in Austin, this two-day event brings together hundreds of authors, including bestsellers, local writers, and emerging voices. Book lovers can attend author readings, panel discussions, book signings, and even buy signed copies of their favorite titles. With activities for all ages, it’s a must-attend for anyone passionate about literature and storytelling.

How to Get There: The festival is located in downtown Austin, easily accessible by public transit or walking.

Tickets: Free to attend, though some special events may require tickets.

Must-See: The readings by bestselling authors and the chance to meet your favorite writers in person.

Local Tips: Check the schedule in advance—many popular authors draw big crowds, so get to your favorite events early for a good spot.

7. Pecan Street Festival (May 3-4, 2025)

Austin’s Pecan Street Festival is a biannual arts and crafts fair that takes over the city’s historic Sixth Street (formerly known as Pecan Street). The festival celebrates local artisans, with over 300 vendors selling handmade goods, jewelry, and artwork. Live music performances happen throughout the weekend, showcasing local bands and musicians across multiple genres. The festival also features plenty of food trucks and family-friendly activities, making it a great way to spend a spring weekend in Austin.

How to Get There: Sixth Street is located in downtown Austin, accessible by public transit or rideshare.

Tickets: Free to attend.

Must-See: The local artisan booths, where you can find one-of-a-kind handmade goods and support Austin’s creative community.

Local Tips: Plan to walk around a lot—wear comfy shoes and bring sunscreen for this outdoor event.

From the star-studded stages of SXSW to the rustic charm of the Texas Renaissance Festival, 2025 will be an exciting year for festivals in Texas. Whether you're a music fan, food enthusiast, or history buff, there’s a festival waiting for you in the Lone Star State.

Stay tuned to Woke Waves Magazine for more festival updates, insider tips, and event guides throughout the year!

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