October - Texas Music Events Calendar 2008

The 2008 TMEC lists more than 500 annual events featuring live music. To update listing information for your 2008 event, please contact the Texas Music Office at music[at]SPAMAWAYgovernor.state.tx.us or call (512) 463-6666.

For a listing of Texas live music venues, please click here.

NOTE: Please delete the [at]SPAMAWAY that the Texas Music Office has added to the email addresses below before sending an email. We inserted it to deter Web spiders from mining this page.

Email: music@governor.state.tx.us | Request Info | Texas music event application

Texas Rice Festival
October 1-4
Winnie-Stowell Park; between LeBlanc and South Park Streets
Texas Rice Festival, Inc.
ReJena Amy May
P.O. Box 147; Winnie, TX 77665
(409) 296-4404; (409) 296-4404; Fax (409) 296-9293
Music: Bluegrass, Cajun, Christian, Country, Tejano
Activities: Awards show, County fair, Fiddling contests, Street dance, street vendors, photo contest, craft show, rice cooking contest, livestock sho
Texas Rice Festival provides a county fair atmosphere with entertainment for people of all ages. The event is a tribute to generations of rice farmers and the agricultural industry throughout Texas. Festivities include, BBQ & fajita cookoff, open horse show, carnival, rice education exhibit, 4-H & FFA livestock show, craft show, photography contest, art contest, antique car show, farm equipment display, grand parade, and a Rice Education tent. We have live music performances from the top Texas and Nashville acts. No fee for parking. Concerts are included in gate price. One price carnival wristbands available daily.

CMA of Texas Awards Show
October (exact date tba)
Country Music Association of Texas
Bud Fisher
P.O. Box 549; Troy, TX 76579
(512) 217-2252
Music: Country, Rockabilly
Activities: Awards show, Music festival
The Country Music Association of Texas' Awards Show is held the last week in October (please call to verify the date) and features various awards related to country music and multimedia. This year's show features a band, four to eight individual performers, award winners, and Hall of Fame Inductions. Open to the public. Also, sponsor of other events in various state locations. All events are presentations and promotions of traditional classic country music and performers.

East Texas Poultry Festival
October 2-4
Downtown Square; 100 Courthouse Square A-101
Shelby County Chamber of Commerce
Pam Phelps, Executive Director
100 Courthouse Square, No. A-101; Center, TX 75935
(936) 598-3682; (936) 598-3682; Fax (936) 598-8163
Music: Bluegrass, Children's, Christian, Country, Folk/Acoustic, Jazz
Activities: County fair, Street dance
East Texas Poultry Festival is a three-day event which includes a broiler show, auction, carnival, art show, street dance, arts and crafts, food booths, Queen's contest and live entertainment under the big tent and other local talent. Friday evening features gospel music and the live music continues Saturday afternoon and a Country Western band on Saturday night.

Heart O' Texas Fair and Rodeo
October 2-11
Heart O' Texas Fair Complex; 4601 Bosque Blvd.
Heart O' Texas Fair Complex
Wes Allison
4601 Bosque Blvd.; Waco, TX 76710
(254) 776-1660; Fax (254) 776-1667
Music: Children's, Country, Rock, Tejano
Activities: County fair, Rodeo
40,000 attend for the PRCA rodeo, carnival midway, food vendors, exhibits, and horse and livestock shows.

Austin Record Convention
October 3-5
Crockett Event Center; 10601 North Lamar Blvd
ARC
Doug Hanners
P.O. Box 90806; Austin, TX 78709-0806
(512) 288-7288; Fax (512) 288-7227
Activities: Trade show/convention
The Austin Record Convention is the largest sale of recorded music in the USA. There is more music and related memorabilia available here, at one time, than anywhere else. Ranging from the 78s of the 1930s to the latest compact discs of today, over one million 78s, 45s, LPs, CDs, cassettes, posters and collectibles (probably even a few 8-track tapes!) are in the auditorium. Over 300 different dealers from all over the USA and Europe are spread out over 50,000 square feet of floor space. The show is so big that to see everything takes most of the weekend, so if you're in a hurry we have search announcements at 12, 2, and 4 o'clock from the concession area to help in locating specific items. The show brings together collectors and dealers from all over the world for a weekend of activity in Austin. Early Shopper Admission: $25 US residents, $10 International residents.

Dallas Video Festival
October 3-5
Angelika Dallas; Mockingbird Station, 5321 East Mockingbird Lane, Suite 230, Dallas, TX
Video Association of Dallas
Bart Weiss
1405 Woodlawn Avenue; Dallas, TX 75208-2433
(214) 428-8700; Fax (214) 426-0737
Activities: Video festival
The Dallas Video Festival is one of the largest and most diversified video festivals in the U.S. It provides a showcase for new works by national, international, and regional independent artists. More than 250 screenings, installations, panel discussions, workshops, and exhibits.

Gonzales "Come and Take It" Days Celebration
October 3-5
Downtown Square; Highway 183 Business in Downtown Gonzales
Gonzales Chamber of Commerce
Barbara Hand
414 Saint Lawrence; Gonzales, TX 78629
(830) 672-6532; Fax (830) 672-6533
Music: Country, Polka, Pop, Rock, Tejano
Activities: Street dance, Carnival
Gonzales "Come and Take It" Days is a three-day festival which commemorates the firing of the first shot for Texas' Independence on October 2, 1835. Attractions include live music under the beer tent all weekend, as well as street dances and a carnival.

Pasadena Livestock Show, Rodeo and Championship Bar-B-Que
October 3-11
Pasadena Fairgrounds; 7601 Redbluff
Pasadena Livestock Show, BBQ Cookoff & Horse Show
Scott Attwood
7601 Red Bluff Road; Pasadena, TX 77507-1003
(281) 487-0240; Fax (281) 487-7067
Music: Cajun, Christian, Country, Cowboy, Rock, Rockabilly, Tejano
Activities: Awards show, County fair, Rodeo, Singing contests, Street dance, Trade show/convention
Pasadena Livestock Show and Rodeo believes that we are one team, one association and one vision. We are a group of volunteers with a common goal working as one unit to achieve success through student education. Our vision is to benefit the community, support youth and education, and preserve cowboy heritage. We strive to promote education and preserve the way of the cowboy. Area businessmen and cowboys & cowgirls work side by side to bring the community together in one working unit. Our organization strives to meet and expand those expectations. By continuing with the dream of our forefathers our volunteers will help make this association a success and improve the quality of citizens that this community produces.

Oktoberfest
October 3-5
Downtown Market Square; 100 West Main Street
Creative Marketing
Debbie Farquhar-Garner
P.O. Box 222; Fredericksburg, TX 78624
(830) 997-4810; (866) 839-3378; Fax (830) 997-9628
Music: Polka
Activities: Music festival, family event
Fredericksburg's authentic Oktoberfest combines the traditions of the Old World with the best of Fredericksburg! Polka, waltz, two-step and line dancing featured. Food concessions, arts and heirloom displays. Polka Capital of Texas! German music is our main emphasis with three days and three stages of the best German music around. There are over 20 bands that will perform throughout the weekend.

Pioneer Days Street Dance
October 4
Downtown Business District; Dowtown Whitney
Lake Whitney Chamber of Commerce
H.S. Findley
P.O. Box 604; Whitney, TX 76692
(254) 694-2540; Fax (254) 694-3005
Music: Bluegrass, Christian, Country, Cowboy, Folk/Acoustic, Polka, Tejano
Activities: Street dance, Arts and Crafts boo
The Pioneer Days Street Dance includes a parade, arts and crafts area, kids' games, live entertainment all day, and a street dance. The local fire department puts on a dance Saturday night, giving you double opportunity to meet others. Entertainment on the main stage begins at 9 a.m. and ends at 6 p.m. The Street Dance, featuring country-western music, starts at 8 p.m. Main stage entertainment includes singers, musicians, etc. The daytime entertainment is primarily local individuals and groups. Some professional demonstrations such as "Protective Guard Dog Training", Karata demos, etc., are available on the main stage. Saturday nights are filled with all kinds of music from country western to bluegrass. Admission is charged and kids games and the carnival stay open, however they are located in a different area. Estimated attendance for 2003 was at least 9,000 people with over 100 entries in the annual parade.

PalmFest International Folklife Celebration
October 4-5
McAllen Convention Center; McAllen
Virginia Haynie Gause
517 East Dallas Ave.; McAllen, TX 78501
(956) 358-3915
Music: Bluegrass, Blues, Christian, Country, Folk/Acoustic, Jazz, Regional Mexican, Rock
Activities: Cowboy poetry, Music festival, Crafts, Dance, Fajita Cookoff
PalmFest, celebrating the unique cultures and vibrant history of Deep South Texas will be held at McAllen Convention Center. This exciting international folklife celebration captured an audience of about 16,000 during its first year. This year it will partner with the City of McAllen, the McAllen Heritage Center, the expanded Fajita Cookoff, the McAllen South Rotary Club, and the McAllen Chamber of Commerce. It is a fun and festive weekend of music, ethnic foods, authentic cultural entertainment, children's activities and much more! Hosted by the City of McAllen, "The City of Palms." Free Admission and Free Parking.

2008 Tribute to Woody Guthrie 2
October 4
Woody Guthrie Folk Music Center of Pampa TX; 320 South Cuyler, Pampa TX 79065
Woody Guthrie Folk Music Center
TBA
320 South Cuyler; Pampa, TX 79065
(806) 665-7321; (806) 665-1180; Fax (806) 665-7321
Music: Bluegrass, Blues, Children's, Country, Cowboy, Folk/Acoustic, Jazz
Activities: Music festival
The "Tribute," held on the weekend as near to October 3 -- the anniversary of Guthrie's death in 1967 -- is a casual time for musicians to come play in jam sessions, and for scheduled performances by regional and national.performers. In addition, regional folk/blue grass/roots/blues groups will perform on an intimate outdoor stage all day. An afternoon storytelling-and-song program tells the story of Woody Guthrie from Pampa to New York (1937-1947) with a variety of musicians performing Guthrie songs. A barbecue supper (cost: $25 for adults; $10 11 yrs +; Free 10 & under) will be followed by a special concert with THE WANDERERS of Portland Oregon, who tell the story of Woody Guthrie's writing 28 songs in 30 days in 1940, when he traveled the Columbia River basin as the Grand Coulee Dam was being built.

J'ville Music Jam
October 4
Jacksonville, TX; Downtown on Commerce St.
Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce
Laura Battle
P.O. Box 1231; Jacksonville, TX. 75766-1231
(903) 589-0959; (903) 586-2217; Fax (903) 586-6944
Music: Bluegrass, Blues, Christian, Country, Cowboy, Folk/Acoustic, Jazz, Pop, R&B, Reggae, Regional Mexican, Rock, Tejano
Activities: Music festival, Singing contests, Street dance
The J'ville Music Jam (JMJ) is the first Saturday in October. The musicfest has three stages of ongoing music throughout the day, a/c vendors, food, and activities for the kids. It also features the Usaki triple print sound off. The festival is from 11 a.m.- 11 p.m.

Bastrop Musicfest - Concert for CASA of Bastrop
October 4
TBA;
All Austin Entertainment
John Doughty
187 Akaloa Drive; Bastrop, TX 78602
(512) 772-4478; (512) 879-3743
Music: Blues, Rock
Activities: Music festival
Some of Austin's best bands will be performing at The Bastrop Musicfest: Concert for CASA (court appointed special advocates for abused and neglected children).

Stevie Ray Vaughan Remembrance Ride and Concert 2
October 5
Cowboys; Arlington
SRV Remembrance Ride, Inc.
Shon Beall
4908 Mill Creek Trail; Fort Worth, TX 76179
(214) 320-9032; Fax (214) 337-5188
Music: Blues, Rock
Activities: Music festival, Motorcycle rally
While remembering the life of Stevie Ray Vaughan, enjoy a fun-filled combination motorcycle parade and blues concert, benefiting the Stevie Ray Vaughan Memorial Scholarship Fund! 2008 Special Guest is Cutter Brandenburg. The parade starts in Downtown Dallas, proceeds to Cowboys in Arlington, TX for the all - day memorial concert! Cowboys is a 3,000 capacity tri-level venue which allows everywhere to be a great seat! In past years Stevie's mother, Martha Vaughan, has attended the event to accept the donation to the scholarship fund. 12:00pm - Doors open at Cowboys 12:30pm - Concert Begins.

Band Extravaganza
October 7
Lowrey Field
Lubbock Independent School District
Robert Rumph, Director of Fine Arts
1628 19th Street; Lubbock, TX 79401
(806) 766-1045; Fax (806) 766-1036
"Band Extravaganza" is the largest single annual music event in Lubbock. It features performances from each middle school band program and the marching shows from each high school. Guest performances by the Wayland University Band and the Texas Tech Goin' Band add to the excitement. The evening is complete with the Grand Finale of over 1,500 Lubbock ISD band students on the field in one special performance.

HAAM Benefit Day
October 7
Austin
Health Alliance for Austin Musicians
Tim Taylor, Chariman
P.O. Box 301496; Austin, TX 78703
(512) 324-8976; (512) 322-5177
Music: Blues, Children's, Country, Folk/Acoustic, Jazz, R&B, Rock, Tejano
Activities: Benefit Day
On the third HAAM Benefit Day on Tuesday October 7th, 80 businesses across Austin will have either pledged at least 5 percent of the day's (6 a.m. to midnight) proceeds or become sponsor with a cash donation. And Austin bands of all genres - many of them HAAM members - will perform at selected locations throughout the day. For information: www.myhaam.org, www.myspace.com/myhaam. Businesses interested in participating in HAAM Benefit Day 2008 should contact Carolyn Schwarz at 512-324-8976 or cschwarz[at]healthallianceforaustinmusicians.org

Piney Woods Fair
October 8-12
Nacogdoches County Exposition Center; 3805 Northwest Stallings
Nacogdoches County Exposition Center
Bill Plunkett, Anita Scott
3805 Northwest Stallings Drive; Nacogdoches, TX 75964
(936) 564-0849; (936) 564-0849; Fax (936) 564-9228
Music: Christian, Country, Rock
Activities: County fair
The Piney Woods Fair is an old fashioned county fair. Shows include home canning, crafts, arts, photography; agriculture include dairy, beef, lamb, poultry, rabbit, goat, barrow, and agricultural mechanics. We have a variety of music and free entertainment that comes with fair admission.

Festival Chicano 2
October 2-4
Miller Outdoor Theatre; 100 Concert Drive, Hermann Park in Houston
Festival Chicano
Daniel Bustamante, Founder
P.O. Box 3493; Houston, TX 77253
(713) 222-2783; (713) 284-8350
Music: Tejano
Activities: Music festival
Festival Chicano is a celebration of Chicano culture featuring music (from popular Tejano to Mariachi). This annual showcase is held at one of the finest amphitheaters in the U.S. Legendary artists such as Selena, Little Joe, Lydia Mendoza, Esteban Jordan, Flaco Jimenez, and many others have performed on this stage. This family event has become a Houston tradition in its 29 years of production.

Guadalupe County Fair
October 9-12
Guadalupe County Fairgrounds; Business Highway 123 South
Guadalupe County Agricultural and Livestock Fair
Jenny Siltmann
P.O. Box 334; Seguin, TX 78155
(830) 379-6477; (830) 379-6477; Fax (830) 379-6477
Music: Country
Activities: County fair, Fiddling contests, Rodeo, Trade show/convention, food contests
The Guadalupe County Fair emphasizing agricultural and livestock activities also provides entertainment through carnival, a PRCA rodeo and dance bands. Bands who have appeared in the past are Taylor Brothers; Johnny Dee and the Rocket 88's; La Tropa F; Darrell McCall; Rotel and the Hot Tomatoes; Quarter Moon; Pasty Torres; Wildcard; and local artists.

South Padre Island BikeFest
October 9-11
SPI BikeFest, Inc.
G. J. Reyna, Coordinator
P.O. Box 4073; McAllen, TX 78502
(956) 668-7484
Music: Rock
South Padre Island BikeFest features a Saturday night concert. BikeFest is an Open Rally -- all brands are welcome! BikeFest has raised more than $150,000 for South Texas charities!

Wimberley Gospel Music Festival
October 10, 11
Cowboys for Jesus Church; Fischer
Wimberly Gospel Music Association
Jerry Hoyt
8400 FM 32; Fischer, TX 78623
(830) 935-2920
Music: Bluegrass, Children's, Christian, Country, Folk/Acoustic, Tejano, Scottish
Activities: Music festival
The 29th annual Wimberley Gospel Music Festival will begin on Friday, October 10 from 6-10pm and continue through Satruday, October 11 from 2-10pm. The Cowboys for Jesus will host the festival at their location in Fischer, Texas, just outside Wimberley. Returning to the festival this year will be The Bailey Family, Victoria; Blue Creek, Lavernia; His Way Quartet and Southern Praise, Austin; Song of Glory, Ingleside; White Dove, Tomball; Charlotte Henson, League City; Jubilee Singers and Gene and LaVada Triesch, Blanco; The Steve Boatwright Band, Elgin; Cowboys for Jesus, Fischer; and Wimberley's own Jim Henderson and Andrea Oldmixon. Concessions will be available. Admission to the event and parking are free, and chairs will be available, or you can bring your comfortable lawn chairs. The new site also offers clean and handicapped restrooms and space for self-contained RVs (no hookups).

Rockport Seafair
October 10-12
Rockport Festival Grounds; Downtown Rockport at Harbor and Ski Basin
Rockport Seafair Inc.
Diane Probst
404 Broadway Street; Rockport, TX 78382-2765
(361) 729-6445; (800) 242-0071; Fax (361) 729-7681
Music: Blues, Cajun, Country, Tejano
The Rockport Seafair is three days of fun, feast and frolic on festival grounds. Events include: a gumbo cook-off, live music, parade, arts and crafts fair, crab races, carnival, and much more. Fun for all ages.

Turkeyfest Parade and Festival
October 10, 11, 12
Cuero City Park; 1000 Blk of E. Broadway
Turkeyfest Association
Erwin Rath
124 East Church Street; Cuero, TX 77954
(361) 275-2112; (361) 275-6351; Fax (361) 275-3484
Music: Country, Polka, Rock, Tejano
Activities: Street dance
The Turkeyfest Parade will begin in downtown Cuero and proceed to Cuero City Park. The festival will feature continuous music (outdoor stage), street dances, cookoffs, art show, cantina, arts and crafts, food, rides, and a Great Gobbler Gallop.

Fiesta del Campo
October 10-12
Mary and Ed Lasater Park; Highway 281 North and Forest Street
Falfurrias Chamber of Commerce
Gus Barrera
P.O. Box 476; Falfurrias, TX 78355
(361) 325-3333; (361) 325-3333; Fax (361) 325-2956
Music: Classical, Country, Polka, Rap/Hip Hop, Tejano
Activities: Music festival, Rodeo
Fiesta del Campo features live Tejano and country music. Fiesta attractions include food, family entertainment, trail ride, pan de campo, arts and crafts, horseshoe tournament, Tortilla cooking contest, dancing, roping and golf tournament.

Gruene Music and Wine Fest 2
October 10-12
Gruene Hall & The Grapevine; 1281 Gruene Road, New Braunfels
Gruene Hall
1601 Hunter Road; New Braunfels, TX 78130
(830) 629-5077; (830) 606-1601
Music: Blues, Cajun, Christian, Country, Cowboy, Folk/Acoustic, R&B, Rockabilly
Activities: Music festival, Guitar Auction
This Americana event benefiting local charities features the best in live Texas music and the best in Texas food and wines at Gruene Hall and The Grapevine. All three days will be filled with vintner and music events, wine & food samplings, and the Great Guitar Auction.

International Accordion Festival
October 10-12
La Villita; South Alamo and Nuevo
Office of Cultural Affairs, San Antonio
Pat Jasper, International Accordian Festival
P.O. Box 839966; San Antonio, TX 78283-3966
(512) 459-3495; (210) 207-6960; Fax (210) 228-0263
Music: Cajun, Tejano, world
Activities: Music festival, workshops
The International Accordion Festival features acts from all over the world performing a wide variety of musical styles. Held at La Villita, a venue conducive to dance, the festival also features workshops and create an environment for interaction with the artists and the music. The musicians perform conjunto, western swing, Cajun, German, Irish, Bulgarian, Celtic, Colombian, Dominican reggae, world, and zydeco music and hail from as far away as South America and Eastern Europe.

Cass County Cowboy Gathering
October 10-11
Cass County Rodeo Grounds; Hwy 8 North, Linden
Piney Woods Cowboy Gathering
Richard Bowden
P.O. Box 1229; Linden, TX 75563
(903) 756-9934
Music: Country, Cowboy
Activities: Rodeo
The Cass County Championship Rodeo Association, in partnership with Linden Economic Development Corporation and Music City Texas, Inc. invite you to attend the 2nd annual Cass County Cowboy Gathering October 10-11, 2008. Events include chuckwagon cooking, campfire serenades, and music. There will also be a trail ride, 2-day rodeo, western swing dance and critter scramble- something for the whole family. The Cass County Cowboy Gathering is a fund raising event for the Cass County Rodeo Arena Building Fund.

Rhythm and BBQ Festival
October 11-12
Salt Lick BBQ Pavillion; Driftwood
Cramden Coach Corp.
Dan Skarbek
P.O. Box 463; Austin, TX 78767
(512) 444-9885 ext. 21; Fax (512) 444-4699
Music: Blues, Country, Rock
Activities: Music festival
The first annual Rhythm & BBQ Festival will take place at the Salt Lick BBQ Pavillion in Driftwood, TX, on October 11 and 12, 2008. Asleep at the Wheel will be the headliner with others TBA.

Quadrangle Street Festival
October 11-12
Downtown Texarkana; 219 North State Line Avenue
Texarkana Museums System
Ina McDowell
P.O. Box 2343; Texarkana, TX 75504-2343
(903) 793-4831; Fax (903) 793-7108
Music: Bluegrass, Blues, Christian, Country, Folk/Acoustic, Jazz, Pop, R&B, Rock
Activities: Music festival, Street dance, Arts and Crafts
In its 27th year, this annual event brings music, artists, crafters to the downtown of historic Texarkana. Festival pulls in two states, Texas and Arkansas on the state line of each with numerous competitions and events surrounding the state line avenue. Three stages of entertainment and street dance. Includes 5K bi-state road race, four states regional cheerleading competition, Miss Quadrangle Pageant, pet show, car shows, lumberjack shows and much more. Festival also includes admission to the city's three downtown museums. Please visit website for all details.

Texas Renaissance Festival
October 11-November 30
Plantersville; 6 miles south of Plantersville on FM 1774
Texas Renaissance Festival
21778 FM 1774; Plantersville, TX 77363
(936) 894-2516; (800) 458-3435; Fax (936) 894-2391
Music: Renaissance
The Texas Renaissance Festival is held each Saturday and Sunday in a recreated 16th-century village. It features, the fine arts, food, and frivolity of the period updated for modern guests. Music abounds and ranges from strolling minstrels in the troubadour tradition, to a brass ensemble, to bagpipes, to madrigals, to unaccompanied voice, to a unique carillon bell act, "Cast In Bronze". Texas Based musical groups that perform include; I Madrigali, Jim Hancock, Wynd ' N Wyre with Therese Honey, Istanpitta, As You Like It, Passing Measures, and The Flying Fish Sailors.

Dallas Song Awards Showcase and Silent Auction
October 11
Center for Community Cooperation; 2900 Live Oak, Dallas
Dallas Songwriters Association
Barbara McMillen
Sammons Center for the Arts, 3630 Harry Hines Blvd., Box 20; Dallas, TX 75219
(214) 750-0916; Fax (214) 692-1392
Music: Bluegrass, Blues, Cajun, Children's, Christian, Country, Cowboy, Folk/Acoustic, Jazz, R&B, Rap/Hip Hop, Rock, Tejano
Activities: Awards show, Songwriting contests
The Dallas Songwriters 2008 Song Contest Awards Lunch Showcase and Silent Auction features performing songwriters and bands who are semi-finalists in any one of 8 categories of the song contest. The 2008 Dallas Songwriters Song Contest is accepting entries beginning May 1st with a submission deadline of July 15, 2006. Three winners in each of nine categories will be awarded prizes, DSA & Broadjam memberships plus inclusion on a Winners CD. Cash prizes of $100 (1st place),and $50 (2nd place) will be awarded in each category. Grand prize is a Gibson Guitar . Sponsored by Dallas Songwriters Association (DSA), in conjunction with Gibson, Broadjam, Crystal Clear Sound, Jaelius Music, Nancy Rynders, Texas Music Group, Santa Fe Design, Mike McClain & River Sounds and Recording Resort, SongsU.com, Green Room Production, Patrick McGuire Recording, CamAudio, Brookmays. Entry Fee is $20. Go to the DSA website http://www.dallassongwriters.org for the rules and to print out an entry form (or request to be mailed one) or call (214)750-0916 or write to DSA Song Contest, c/o Sammons Center For The Arts 3630 Harry Hines Blvd. Box 20 Dallas, TX 75219.

Sanderson's Prickly Pear Pachanga
October 11
Courthouse Square
Prickly Pear Pachanga
Sally Rawlins
P.O. Drawer 640; Sanderson, TX 79848
(432) 345-6789; Fax (432) 345-2653
Music: Bluegrass, Country, Folk/Acoustic
Activities: Awards show, Music festival, Street dance
The cactus capital of Texas celebrates cactus in music, food, costume, art and products. Costume contest, coronation of Miss Cactus Flower and King Tuna, Chili Cook off (C.A.S.I.), hot sauce, contest, cactus cooking contest, cactus-theme arts and crafts booths, parade, live music and dance, ranchero music festival.

Make Mine Texas Music Fest 2
October 11
Trading Fair II Arena; 5515 South Loop East
Fun Folks Unlimited
Rosi Juarez
P.O. Box 8712; Houston, TX 77249
(713) 818-5328; (713) 692-1935; Fax (707) 376-0494
Music: Country, Cowboy, Latin Pop, Regional Mexican, Tejano
Activities: Music festival, Singing contests, Street dance
Make Mine Texas Music Fest celebrates Texas culture. From Texas Country to Tejano Country, two-step to cumbia, and accordions to steel guitars, the festival celebrates Texas diversity. Fans can enjoy the music of Texas in two languages. Whether we speak Spanish and dance Country or speak English and dance Cumbia, it's all about pride in being Texan and pride in being diverse.

Dog Jam
October 11
Ford Park; 5115 IH-10 South
KIOC (106.1 FM) "Big Dog 106"
Kaleb Dainwood
P.O. Box 5488; Beaumont, TX 77726
(409) 896-5555 ext 147
Music: Rock
Activities: Music festival
KIOC (106.1 FM) "Big Dog 106" the only station that rocks.

Fire Ant Festival
October 13
Downtown Square
Greater Marshall Chamber of Commerce
Phyllis Bryan
P.O. Box 520; Marshall, TX 75670
(903) 935-7868; Fax (903) 935-9982
Music: Children's, Christian, Country, Rock
Activities: Singing contests, Street dance
For all who attended this past year's FireAnt Festival, the weather was picture perfect! The crowds were great, we even observed a FireAnt Festival FIRST: A Tour de FireAnt Wedding! This most recent FireAnt Festival was great. It is always a crazy celebration of that mean and pesky critter! The festival is held annually the second weekend in October, downtown on the square in historic Marshall, Texas. The mild autumn weather brought a huge crowd to downtown Marshall. We hope everyone had a great time.

Trinity Valley Expo
October 14-18
Trinity Valley Exposition Fairgrounds; 321 FM 563
Trinity Valley Exposition
Dave Chessher, General Manager
P.O. Box 9047; Liberty, TX 77575
(936) 336-7455; (936) 334-3312; Fax (936) 336-5192
Music: Blues, Cajun, Christian, Country, Regional Mexican
Activities: County fair, Fiddling contests, Rodeo, Street dance
Trinity Valley Expo features a county fair and rodeo. Other festivities include gospel music, live country music, a concert/dance held in the arena, and a nightly dance with country or Cajun music in an open air pavilion. A concert/dance in the arena and a rodeo will be held during this Expo. March features Thunder on the Trail biker rally with live music Friday and Saturday. May features PBR Bull Riding with live music following.

Libraryfest: Games, Games, Games
October 14
Fort Worth Central Library, Downtown Fort Worth; 500 West 3rd Street
The Fort Worth Public Library Foundation
Amy Bearden
500 West Third Street; Fort Worth, TX 76102
(817) 332-2972; Fax (817) 870-1832
Music: Children's
Activities: Music festival
Libraryfest is a free family-oriented festival that showcases the Library in a new and exciting way. Authors, storytellers, musicians and other interesting folks will be on hand in and around the Central Library to offer discussions, presentations, workshops and entertainment. Three-time Grammy-nominated Trout Fishing in America will be back to entertain children and adults alike. The festival attracts a diverse audience from the North Central Texas area with an annual attendance that has exceeded 8,000 visitors.

East Texas Yamboree
October 15-18
Upshur County Courthouse and Yamboree Park; Trinity Street Gym
East Texas Yamboree Association
Joan Small
P.O. Box 854; Gilmer, TX 75644
(903) 843-2568; (903) 576-6680; Fax (903) 843-3759
Music: Christian, Country, Cowboy
Activities: Fiddling contests, Street dance, Gospel singing
The East Texas Yamboree features a coronation, All Service Club luncheon, barn dance, street dance, home canning and pie contests, art show, photography show, a Gospel stage, livestock show and sale, carnival, parades, fiddlers contest, arts and crafts, exhibits, antique car show, and much more.

South Texas State Fair
October 16-26
Southeast Texas Entertainment Complex; IH-10, Beaumont
Young Men's Business League
Chris Colletti
7250 Wespark Drive; Beaumont, TX 77705
(409) 832-9991; Fax (409) 838-0402
Music: Bluegrass, Blues, Children's, Christian, Country, Jazz, R&B, Rock
Activities: County fair, Rodeo
The South Texas State Fair is a regional fair with livestock and poultry shows, arts and crafts, an auto show, and amateur live entertainment. Also the Bill Hames Shows provides a 50 ride carnival midway.

Texas Interactive Music Conference and Bar-B-Q
October 16-19
Canyon of the Eagles Lodge;
Project Bar-B-Q
Teresa Avallone
P.O. Box 9726; Austin, TX 78766
(512) 689-5486; Fax (512) 454-8999
Activities: Think Tank
The Texas Interactive Music Conference and Bar-B-Q brings together the brightest minds in the audio industry to discuss, argue, debate, brainstorm and possibly alter the course of history for music hardware & software. We are gearing up to answer some of the toughest questions facing our industry today on the topic: "Influencing music hardware and software over the next five years." The Annual Premier Interactive Music Conference and Bar-B-Q is always held the third weekend in October. We do not hire bands for this event as our attendees are usually musicians and participate in nightly jams.

Brownsville Latin Jazz Festival
October 16-19
UT at Brownsville-SET B Lecture Hall; Jacob Brown Auditorium
Brownsville Society for the Performing Arts
George Ramirez
P.O. Box 6238; Brownsville, TX 78523-3238
(956) 831-9590; (956) 453-3907; Fax (956) 541-7615
Music: Jazz, Latin Pop
Activities: Music festival, Street dance, competition
A four day event that provides exposure to Latin Jazz that would otherwise not be excessable to this community. The first and last days are free outdoor concerts enjoyed by over 4,000 persons of all ages, ethnicity, and social/economic background. The second and third days feature concerts by Grammy nominated artists that are well attended by the coorporate community. Clinics, master workshops, dance competitions and exhibitions are also presented throughout the weekend.

Texas Jazz Festival
October 17-19
Heritage Park; 1581 North Chaparral, Corpus Christi
Texas Jazz Festival Society
Rick Sanchez
P.O. Box 424; Corpus Christi, TX 78408
(361) 688-1296; Fax (361) 883-4500
Music: Big Band, Blues, Christian, Jazz, Tejano
Activities: Music festival
The Texas Jazz Festival features over 50 bands on three stages over a three day weekend set at Heritage Park, downtown Corpus Christi. Primarily all types of jazz, blues. gospel. Food, arts and crafts. No cover charge or admittance fee. World's longest running "free" jazz festival. Official jazz festival for the state of Texas.

Yorktown Western Days Festival
October 17-19
City Park; City Park
Yorktown Western Days Association, Inc.
Melissa Armstrong
P.O. Box 488; Yorktown, TX 78164
(361) 564-2661; Fax (361) 564-2518
Music: Bluegrass, Children's, Country, Cowboy, Polka, Pop, Rock, Rockabilly, Tejano
Activities: Awards show, Music festival, Singing contests, Street dance, Trade show/convention, Cookoff , exhibits, carnival, contests, dance performers
Western Days is a three-day festival that includes arts and crafts booths, a carnival, a variety of food booths, chili cookoff, horseshoe and washer throw, quilt show, variety of food and craft vendors, tractor pull and a stick horse rodeo for the kids and much more entertainment. The festivities also feature continuous music and five free street dances playing country and Tejano music. There is a children's parade on Friday with the Grand parade Saturday morning. New entertainment and booths are added each year. Western Days also has three days of free continuous music performances including country, Tejano, gospel, polka, rock and pop.

Rockdale Fair and Livestock Show
October 17-19
Rockdale Fair Park Fairgrounds; Walnut Street
Rockdale Fair Association
Kay Simank
P.O. Box 1059; Rockdale, TX 76567
(512) 898-5352
Music: Country
Activities: County fair, Rodeo
Rockdale Fair & Livestock Show sponsored by the Rockdale Fair Association - Located at Fair Park. Always the third full weekend of October. Nightly rodeos and Dances, Arts & Crafts, Livestock Show & Auction, Pet Show, Parade, Queen & Children's Pageants, lots of food, antique cars, tractor show, Lone Star Garden Tractor Pull, Pig Scramble, and Mutton Bustin.

Harvest Festival
October 17-19
Heritage Village Museum; Highway 190 West
Woodville Heritage Village Museum
Ofeira A. Gazzaway
P.O. Box 888; Woodville, TX 75979
(409) 283-2272; (800) 323-0389; Fax (409) 283-2194
Music: Bluegrass, Christian, Classical, Country, Folk/Acoustic
Harvest Festival - Held the third weekend in October. This is the largest fall folklife festival in East Texas. It features pioneer East Texas crafts, demonstrations, unique people in period costume, outstanding shows of both music and dance, and lots of interesting food. Friday is kid's day 9:00 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Come join us for Fall's Finest Fun!

Western Week 2
October 17-19
Bee County Exposition Center; 214 South FM 351
Bee County Chamber of Commerce/CVB
Isabel R. Ramirez, Tourism & Events Specialist
1705 North Saint Mary's Street; Beeville, TX 78102
(361) 358-3267; Fax (361) 358-3966
Music: Country
Activities: Music festival, Rodeo, Singing contests

Texas Guitar Show • Arlington
October 18-19
Arlington Convention Center; 1200 Ballpark Way
Texas Guitar Shows, Inc.
John Brinkmann
920 North Main Street; Mansfield, TX 76063
(817) 473-6059; Fax (817) 473-1089
Music: Bluegrass, Blues, Jazz, Rock
Activities: Trade show/convention
The Texas Guitar Show in Arlington centers around the buying, selling, and trading of stringed instruments. A jam session will take place Friday and Saturday nights. Producing shows since 1978, and instruments from over fifteen foreign countries, the Texas Guitar Show is the largest vintage instrument event with over 100,000 square feet of musical instruments.

Hutto Olde Tyme Days & Street Dance
October 18
Downtown Hutto; 122 East Street
Hutto Chamber of Commerce
Elizabeth Page, President
P.O. Box 99; Hutto, TX 78634
(512) 759-4400; Fax (512) 846-1618
Music: Country
Activities: County fair, Street dance
Hutto Olde Tyme Days Festival is a celebration of our town's heritage. Lots of wonderful/unique crafts, food booths, music and much more!

Yamboree Fiddler's Contest
October 18
Courthouse Square; Gilmer
East Texas Yamboree
Joan Small
P.O. Box 854; Gilmer, TX 75644
(903) 843-2413; (903) 843-3981; Fax (903) 843-3759
Music: Christian, Country, Cowboy
Activities: Fiddling contests
The Annual Yamboree Fiddler's Contest is a fiddling contest that has been held for more than 60 years. The age division for contestants are 0-12,13-35, 36-59, 60 and older. Accompanist contest takes two top fiddler, who then compete for the grand championship prize.

Needville Harvest Festival 2
October 18
Harvest Park; 3001 Violet
Needville Harvest Fest, Inc.
Chris Janiek
P.O. Box 1101; Needville, TX 77461
(979) 793-4030; (979) 793-7140; Fax (979) 793-5177
Music: Cajun, Country, Cowboy, Polka, R&B, Reggae
Activities: Singing contests, Street dance, Beauty contest, Talent context and Cook-off
The Needville Harvest Festival is a fund raiser helping to build a city park and community center. We also give three to four scholarships each year. We book five to six different entertainers each year. Previous entertainers were: Travis Bishop (50's and country), Polka Lovers of America (polka singers and dancers), Troy Albers (pop, Christian and country), Bobby Jones Czech Band (polka and country), and Texas Unlimited Band (country and rock).

Bayou City Art Festival - Downtown
October 18-19
Hermann Square, Downtown Houstn; 900 Smith, Houston 77002
Art Colony Association, Inc.
Lynette Wallace
P.O. Box 66650; Houston, TX 77266-6650
(713) 521-0133; (713) 521-0133; Fax (713) 521-0013
Music: Ambient/New Age, Children's, Classical, Jazz, Pop, Regional Mexican, World Beat
The Bayou City Art Festival features over 300 artists displaying their work. This festival occurs twice a year, in October and March. Festival from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day. Houston Arts Alliance presents live music and dance performances from classical to world music on the festival stage. Musicians also offer ambient music throughout the day. There will be hands-on children's art activities in the creative zone and a festival food court.

Czech Fest
October 18
315 West Avenue B; Temple, TX 76501
(254) 298-5610
Music: Czec
Activities: Music festival
Czech Fest is a day-long salute to Czech heritage and its impact on Temple's history. Enjoy live music, Beseda dancers, great food, a kolache baking contest, and a lot of activities for the entire family.

Red Steagall Cowboy Gathering and Western Swing Festival
October 24-26
Fort Worth Stockyards; National Historic District
Debbie Bowman
P.O. Box 4507; Fort Worth, TX 76164
(817) 444-5502; Fax (817) 444-0259
Music: Cowboy, Cowboy poetry
Activities: Cowboy poetry, Fiddling contests, Music festival, Rodeo, Street dance, Trade show/convention, Poetry Conte
The Cowboy Gathering and Western Swing Festival is hosted by Red Steagall, the official Cowboy Poet of Texas. Past performers include Baxter Black, Riders in the Sky, and former members of the Texas Playboys, Don Edwards, Sons of the San Joaquin, Red Steagall and the Boys in the Bunichouse, other singers and cowboy poets will perform.

O'Flaherty Irish Music Retreat
October 24-26
Hoblitzelle Conference Center; 8060 Singleton Road, Midlothian, TX
Traditional Irish Music Education Society
Ken Fleming
1320 Navaho Trail; Richardson, TX 75080
(972) 238-8724; Fax (972) 238-8724
Music: Folk/Acoustic, Celtic
Activities: Concert season, educational class
The O'Flaherty Irish Music Retreat offers instruction in traditional Irish music on fiddle, flute, harp, uilleann pipes, tinwhistle, bodhran, guitar, piano accordion, button accordion, piano, hammered dulcimer, Anglo and English concertinas, harp, mandolin, tenor banjo, bouzouki, singing in Gaelic and English, ceili dancing and ABCs (cyber music notation). Some of America's and Ireland's best players in the tradition will teach. The retreat kicks off with instructor concerts followed by sessions beginning on Friday night. Instructor concerts will also be held during the lunch periods on Saturday and Sunday. On Saturday night, the general public will be invited to join the retreat students for special performances by the master instructors followed by a ceili (group dancing) and more sessions. Classes are held during four 1 �-hour sessions per day.

Texian Market Days
October 25
George Ranch Historical Park; 10215 FM 762
Fort Bend County Museum Association
Bryan McAuley
P.O. Box 1248; Richmond, TX 77406
(281) 343-0218 ext 278; (281) 545-9212; Fax (281) 343-9316
Music: Big Band, Bluegrass, Cowboy, Folk/Acoustic, Jazz
Activities: Cowboy poetry, Rodeo, Arts & Crafts
Texian Market Days is a celebration of Texas history that includes costumed historical interpreters and volunteers presenting vignettes of daily lives and heroic moments from the early days in Stephen F. Austin's colony (1830s) through the late years of the Great Depression and World War II (1940s) along with toe-tapping old-time tunes, an antique tractor show and pull (in collaboration with the Texas Antique Tractor Pull Association), arts and crafts from around the region at the Texian Market Place and so much more. Texian Market Days is a fund-raising event supporting the educational programs of the Fort Bend County Museum Association, including the George Ranch Historical Park and the Fort Bend Museum. Festival Hours: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Order advanced tickets or call the George Ranch Historical Park at 281-343-0218 or email webmaster[at]georgeranch.org. Craft vendors, please see the Vendor Information Package or e-mail Mitzi Jackson or call her at 281-342-1256. For information about volunteering, please email Shelley Wong or call him at 281-343-0218 x 308. For information about joining us as a Texian Market Days Sponsor, please email Candace Jones or call her at 281-342-1256..

Elgin Hogeye Festival
October 25
Downtown; Elgin
Elgin Main Street Board
Amy Stallard Miller
P.O. Box 591; Elgin, TX 78621
(512) 285-5721; Fax (512) 285-5962
Music: Bluegrass, Country, Folk/Acoustic, Jazz, Rock, Tejano
Activities: Music festival
The Hogeye Festival entertains approximately 20,000 people with outstanding musicians, handmade arts and crafts, creative children's activities, a costume children's parade, a "Piggy Idol" singing contest, and an art show. Live music all day on two outdoor stages provides a variety of harmonies. Stay at a local bed and breakfast. The festival is held in our historic downtown on Main Street surrounded by beautifully restored buildings dating back to 1890. A pork cookoff, a Royal Coronation of King Hog or Queen Sowpreme, and car show add to the celebration in the Sausage Capital of Texas. Join us from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Elgin is 19 miles east of Austin on highway 290 at Loop 109.

Fredericksburg Food and Wine Fest 2
October 25
Market Square; 100 West Main Street
Creative Marketing
Debbie Farquhar-Garner
703 North Llano; Fredericksburg, TX 78624
(830) 997-8515; (866) 839-3378; Fax (830) 997-9628
Music: Blues, Cajun, Folk/Acoustic, Jazz, Reggae, World Beat
Activities: Food and Wine Fest
The Fredericksburg Food and Wine Fest features the best Texas made food and wine around. Live music all day. Auction, gargantuan grape toss, and more entertain thousands as they sample wine and food. Everyone enjoys relaxing as they enjoy the best jazz and blues in the hill country. There are as many as 22 different wineries and over 40 specialty booths from across the great state of Texas. There is plenty of action for this one day event.

Festival of Pumpkins
October 25
Downtown; Paris
City of Paris Main Street
Bethany Golden
P.O. Box 9037; Paris, TX 75460
(903) 784-9293; (903) 784-9293; Fax (903) 784-1798
Music: Blues, Country, R&B
Activities: Street dance
Saturday's lineup boasts plenty of excitement and variety. On the main stage, live music all afternoon and evening. Youngsters will love the Home Depot Kids Workshop and activities for kids, adults, seniors and even babies in diapers - in the official Huggies Diaper Derby. A hilariously fun and popular set of pumpkin sports challenges promise to be favorites again this year, including, pumpkin bowling and pumpkin golf.

WorldFest 2008 • 12th Annual DFW International Festival
October 25-26
Addison Circle Park; Addison Circle Addison, TX 75001
DFW International Community Alliance
Melissa Ditch
12800 Hillcrest Road, Suite A211; Dallas, TX 75230
(972) 661-2764
Music: World Beat
Activities: Music festival

Houston Women's Festival 2
October 25
Jones Plaza; 601 Louisiana
Athena Art Project
P.O. Box 70102; Houston, TX 77270
(713) 995-5251
Music: Country, Jazz, Rock
Activities: Music festival, Trade show/convention
The Athena Art Project was established in 1996 as a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization that supports the artistic endeavors of women. The festival is a celebration of music, art, culture and community. It is the largest annual event for the women's community in Texas, drawing people from throughout the state and beyond. The festival is open to all and includes a full day of excellent music and a marketplace of vendors. Tickets are $15 if purchased online and $20 at the door. Children 10 to 18 and students with current ID are $10 at the door. Children under 10 enter free. All tickets are general admission. The festival takes place in the Theater District in downtown Houston, 601 Louisiana St, and lasts from noon until 10:00 pm. Artists in the past include Kelley Gray, Mary Cutrafello Susan Gibson, Amy Speace, Lindsay Mac, Trina Hamlin, Paige Lewis and Patrice Pike.

Oktoberfest
October 26, 27
German Evangelical Lutheran Church; 2415 Winnie
German Evangelical Lutheran Church
Carlos Pena
2415 Winnie; Galveston, TX 77550
(409) 762-8477
Music: Polka
Activities: Street dance
This festival came along with early Bavarian immigrants to Galveston. It was originally a royal wedding festival which soon transformed into an agricultural fair with dancing, competitions, crafts, foods and of course Bavarian's splended beverage, beer. The Island's 24th and Winnie celebration in historic down town Galveston will be much like that held throughout Germany at this very same time.

CASI Terlingua International Chili Championship
October 29-November 1
Rancho CASI de los Chisos; Highway 170 West
Chili Appreciation Society International
3987 Highway 79 South; Wichita Falls, TX 76310
(214) 392-3499; (432) 371-2595; Fax (915) 646-8564
Music: Country
Activities: Chili Cookoff, Beans, Salsa and Hotwings contest Friday
Each year on the first Saturday of November CASI holds the ultimate celebration of Chili. This granddaddy of all chili cookoffs is held at Rancho CASI de los Chisos in Terlingua, Texas. Rancho CASI is located on the North side of Highway 170, eleven miles West of Study Butte and 7 miles East of Lajitas. The four day celebration begins each year on Wednesday before the big weekend, and culminates on Saturday with the Terlingua International Chili Championship. It's a Texas tradition of epic proportion -- complete with an annual proclamation from the Governor declaring "Chili Appreciation Society International Day" in Texas! Everyone is welcome to come and enjoy the celebration, the unique vendors, the rugged terrain surrounding the ranch, and -- of course -- the Chili! The grounds officially open on the Wednesday before the first Saturday in November, and the gate admission, per person, for the entire event is $25.00. The gate admission for the first Saturday in November only, is $10.00 per person. The first Saturday in November is the actual day of the TICC International Chili Championship cookoff. The nightly stage entertainment starts on Thursday night and continues through Saturday night.

Wurstfest
October 31-November 9
Wurstfest Grounds, Landa Park; 178 Landa Park Drive, New Braunfels
Wurstfest Association of New Braunfels
Suzanne Herbelin
P.O. Box 310309; New Braunfels, TX 78130
(830) 625-9167; (800) 221-4369; Fax (830) 620-1318
Music: Polka
Wurstfest is a ten day salute to Sausage and always starts on the Friday before the first Monday in November. The festival includes a variety of food, entertainment, arts and crafts and many other special events. Think of it as New Braunfels' answer to Munich's Oktoberfest. Experience a German/Texas festival rich in German culture and full of Texas fun.

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