13 Things To Do Around East Texas This Weekend – April 11

(East Texas) Springtime in East Texas means: beautiful blooms, thunderstorms, deep cleaning, garage sales, weekend youth sports games, lawn maintenance, allergies, festivities, and so much more. One thing that East Texans have been dealing with for the past several weeks is pollen. Unfortunately, there are still several more weeks to go as the pine trees begin turning even more things a yellow-greenish tint.

We look forward to our spring weekends because we finally get to get out of the office and house and do some things outdoors. But the weather plays a big role in what we do. Last Saturday, many of us were kept indoors as showers and thunderstorms rolled through the Piney Woods. This weekend looks to be the opposite, with a chance of showers and thunderstorms coming on Sunday.

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As an East Texan, I am looking forward to May 9th for the annual Red Dirt BBQ & Music Festival at the Park of East Texas. So much barbecue and live music. Plus, Jacksonville's Tomato Fest is coming up in mid-June, too. This festival is always a fun time. Before that, though, I'll be able to get my favorite festival food at Gladewater's Gusher Days coming up next weekend (April 17 and 18).

As you and I wait for those big events, we can still have fun this weekend thanks to Dalton Days in Longview and the carnival at Broadway Square Mall.

Here's a look at what's happening this weekend in East Texas

For more information or to purchase tickets for any ticketed event listed, click or tap the event name to go to its official page for tickets and additional information.

32nd annual Dalton Days

April 11
Longview

This celebration of Western heritage will entertain families with four re-enactments of the infamous bank robbery in Longview, emphasizing the bravery and heroism of the citizens and law enforcement in Longview in 1894. There will be craft vendors, food vendors, a petting zoo, children's games, and more. The festival gets underway at noon on Fredonia Street in downtown Longview with the first re-enactment and additional shows at 11, 1, and 2. This is a free event.

Spring Carnival at Broadway Square Mall

daily through Sunday, April 19
Broadway Square Mall - Tyler

The spring carnival is in town with thrills waiting for the whole family. There will be family rides to thrill rides, games, and of course, carnival food too! Get those unlimited ride wrist bands! There is an admission fee to ride the rides and play games. Weather permitting.

Lindale Archery Team Car Wash

Saturday 10a-29
Lindale Fire Station - Lindale

The Lindale High School Archery Team is hosting a car wash on Saturday to raise money to get the team to nationals competition. Students will be washing cars to earn money for the trip. There will also be a bake sale and a raffle. Support these kids on their way to their national competition.

18th annual Rose City Artisan and Flower Market

Friday and Saturday 10a-5p
624 N Broadway Ave - Tyler

Gardening enthusiasts will enjoy time spent at the Goodman-LeGrand Museum near downtown Tyler this weekend, checking out all the artisan creations while receiving gardening tips from experts.

15th annual Tyler Run For Autism

Saturday @ 8a
3030 New Copeland Rd - Tyler

The Tyler Run For Autism is a high-energy, fun event for the whole family. This run is a fundraiser for children at the Treatment and Learning Center for Children with Autism. Registration is required for the race.

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Spring Market in Sulphur Springs

Saturday 9a-4p
215 E Shannon Rd - Sulphur Springs

The Sulphur Springs Spring Market features local vendors displaying and selling their creations. There will be unique finds, freshly-made baked goods, sweets and treats, jewelry, handmade crafts, and more.

Secret Life Of Bugs

Saturday 10a-11a
Texas State Park Road 16 - Tyler

During this interactive event, you can learn how bugs really help us out. Find out more about what they do than just pollinate. This is a free event to attend, but park admission is required.

Spring Play Days

Saturday 10a-12n
615 Velleloma St - Marshall

It's a Spring Play Day! Enjoy a variety of games, get creative with arts and crafts, listen to music, and don't miss the exciting egg hunt (bring your baskets). Bring the whole family for a day of laughter, creativity, and springtime fun!

Artisan Walk On The Bowery

Saturday 10a-2p
downtown Winnsboro - Winnsboro

Discover the works of local artisans in downtown Winnsboro. The Artisan Walk brings together makers and creators offering handmade goods, art, and specialty items you won’t find anywhere else.
It’s the perfect outing for shopping, visiting with neighbors, and celebrating the creative spirit that makes Winnsboro unique.

Chautauqua Festival 2026

Saturday 10a-2p
224 W Cotton St - Longview

This FREE event is all about celebrating all the rich, diverse culture that Longview and East Texas has to offer, including live music & performances, local authors, artists, craft activities, art installations, artisans, food trucks, face-painting, and so much more!
We hold the festival just outside the library front doors on the Eastman Library Plaza. This is a free event. Check the site for a full list of events and live music.

Avalon Medieval Faire

Saturday and Sunday
10746 FM 1252 - Kilgore

See live medieval combat. Shop vendors, crafts, and curiosities. Try your luck at games of skill like axe throwing, arrow shooting, and spear throwing. There will be live music, mischief, and merriment. There is an admission fee for this event.

Risk If For The Brisket 2026

Saturday 10-9p
downtown Gilmer - Gilmer

This family-friendly BBQ competition will play out on the streets of downtown Gilmer. There will be vendors, food trucks, and live music throughout the day. There will be activities and games for the kids, a vendor fair, and lots more activities.

Nacogdoches Wine Swirl

Saturday 5p-9p
downtown Nacogdoches - Nacogdoches

The brick streets of downtown Nacogdoches will be turned into a wine-tasting experience. Various Texas wineries will be on hand, giving out samples of their wine. Enjoy bites from local restaurants and shop local boutiques will haveing a great time with friends. This is a ticketed event.

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