Please note that prices, dates, telephone numbers and hours are subject to change. Please call ahead before making plans.

| January - June | July | August | September | October | November | December |

JULY

(June 14) thru July 22, 2006 - MUSIC FESTIVAL - Dallas: Shakespeare Festival. Bring a blanket, picnic dinner and your love of Shakespeare for this annual outdoor festival. This year's fare will be The Winter's Tale and Richard III on alternating evenings. Friday performances begin at 5pm, Saturday at 1pm. There is a one-hour break for dinner. Location: Samuell - Grand AmphiTheater, 6200 East Grand Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75218. Region: Texas Prairies and Lakes. For more information, call 214-559-2778. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually. 2006 dates: June 14-18, 2006, June 22-25, 2006, June 27-July 2, 2006, July 4-9, 2006, July 11-16, 2006, July 18-22, 2006.

(June 30) - July 4, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Belton: 82nd Annual 4th of July Celebration & PRCA Rodeo. Since the 1850's folks from all over Central Texas have been coming to Belton to celebrate the 4th of July. This week-long celebration will feature one of Texas's Top Ten Parades, the Festival on Nolan Creek, a carnival, Texas Old Time Fiddlers' Contest, Patriotic Program, Kick-off Bar-B-Q, Cowboy Breakfast with the rodeo being the highlight of the celebration. Time: vary. Cost: vary. Location: 412 E. Central Avenue. Region: Texas Prairies and Lakes. Average attendance: under 250,000. For more information, call 254-939-3551 or visit www.rodeobelton.com. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, week prior to July 4th.

(June 30) - July 2, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Brady: Heart of Texas July Jubilee. The events will kick off July 2nd with fireworks at the Brady Lake. There will be a carnival in town from June 30th - July 2nd at Richards Park. The annual parade on the square will be on July 1st, as well as the street dance. Location: Richard Park, Brady Lake, Downtown Square. Region: Texas Hill Country. Average attendance: under 50,000. For more information please contact the Brady/McCulloch County Chamber of Commerce at 325-597-3491 or email at dpcofc@hotmail.com. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually on July 4th.

July 1, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Belton: Festival on Nolan Creek. Come to Belton and celebrate our independence with the annual Festival on Nolan Creek. Join in the games, carnival, pony rides, arts & crafts, Texas Old Time Fiddlers' Contest, food, face painting and great entertainment. Time: Noon - 6pm. Cost: None. Location: Yettie Polk and Confederate Parks in Downtown Belton. Region: Texas Prairies and Lakes. Average attendance: under 250,000. For more information, please contact Julie Preston at 254-939-3551 or email: julie@beltontxchamber.com. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, Saturday nearest July 4th.

July 1, 2006 - FAIR - Harlingen: Jackson Street Market Days. An old fashioned open-air street fair with antiques, crafts, sidewalk sales, produce cart, and food vendors. Part of Jackson Street is blocked off for this event. Sponsored by the Harlingen Downtown Merchants Association. Time: 9am - 4pm. Cost: Free. Location: Jackson Street in downtown Harlingen. Region: Texas Gulf Coast. Average attendance: under 50,000. For more information, call (956) 423-4933. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held monthly, 1st Saturday.

July 1, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Odessa: Firecracker Fandango and Independence Day Parade. Independence Day festivities with a parade, games, food and family fun, culminating in the biggest aerial fireworks display in West Texas. Time: Parade starts 10am, Fandango 6pm-midnight. Fireworks 10pm. Cost: $4 per person for Fandango, Parade is free. Location: Parade starts from Odessa College parking lot and ends at Noel Heritage Plaza. Fandango is at 4th & Lee Streets. Region: Texas Big Bend Country. Average attendance: under 250,000. For more information, call 432-335-4682. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually on Saturday, on or near July 4th.

July 1-2 & 4, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Garland: Star Spangled 4th. Let us capture your imagination, wow you with the spectacle, and create memories for a lifetime. Welcome to Garland's award-winning Star Spangled 4th celebration, a five-day extravaganza in historical downtown Garland featuring music, food, crafts, and non-stop entertainment for all ages. Don't miss our spectacular evening parade, exciting midway, arts and crafts, auto show, motorcycle show, and more. Nightly choreographed fireworks and laser and light shows. Fun exhibits and attractions. Cost: Free admission and parking. Location: Historic Downtown Garland. Region: Texas Prairies and Lakes. For more information, www.starspangledfourth.com or call (972) 205-2807 or toll-free (888) 879-0264. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually during the 4th of July holiday.

July 1-2, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Rockport: Rockport Art Festival. Central to coastal Texas' Independence Day celebrations, Rockport Art Festival is in its 35th year. This well-known art town's juried fine arts festival hosts 125+ artists hailing from across U.S. In a tented atmosphere adjacent to Rockport Center for the Arts, it is snuggled up to Aransas and Little Bays and Rockport's Harbor and Beach Park. Includes artists' demonstrations, specialty foods, live entertainment, special shopping, and hands-on art activities for children. Time: 10am - 6pm Saturday; 10am-5pm Sunday; Special Performance 8pm Saturday. Cost: $5 daytime; $10 nighttime. Location: Rockport Festival Grounds - Navigation Circle. Region: Texas Gulf Coast. Average attendance: under 250,000. For more information, call 361-729-5519. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, weekend nearest 4th of July.

July 4, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Baytown: July 4th Celebration. An evening of festivities is scheduled, featuring a variety of family-oriented activities including a parade, food booths, craft booths, a children's amusement area, live entertainment, and a fireworks display. Cost: No Admission. Location: Bicentennial Park (Market Street / Lee Drive) in Baytown. Region: Texas Gulf Coast. Average attendance: under 50,000. For more information, call 281-420-6597. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually.

July 4, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Bedford: City of Bedford 4thFest. Join the City of Bedford for one of North Texas' largest "FREE" July 4th events. Parade starts at noon. Festivities continue throughout the day with a carnival, roving entertainment and live concert, followed by the largest firework show in North Texas at 10pm. Time: July 4th 10am-11pm. Cost: FREE. Location: 2801 Forest Ridge Drive. Region: Texas Prairies and Lakes. Average attendance: under 250,000. For more information, call (817) 952-2222 ext. 514 or visit www.ci.bedford.tx.us. For lodging information call the Bedford Hotel Association at 1-800-900-1755 for special rates. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually on 4th of July.

July 4, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Big Spring: Fifth Annual Funtastic 4th of July Festival. Don't miss Big Spring Downtown Revitalization Association's Funtastic Fourth of July Festival Featuring: Battle of the Bands- Tejano, Rock, & Country, food, family activities, Entertainment Feature Group "The Great Divide", Gospel Music Contests, and lots of family fun. Time: 11am. Cost: Free. Location: Heart of the City Park, Downtown Big Spring, Second and Scurry Streets. Region: Texas Panhandle Plains. Average attendance: under 50,000. For more information, call 432-394-4908 or visit www.bigspringmusic.org. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually on July 4th.

July 4, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Lubbock: Fourth on Broadway. A celebration of the 4th of July with a parade and street fair. The parade begins at 10am, followed by live music, and a wide array of food and craft booths lined up along Broadway. The day ends with a concert and fireworks display. Time: All Day. Cost: Free. Location: Broadway Street. Region: Texas Panhandle Plains. Average attendance: under 250,000. For more information, call (806) 747-5232. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually on July 4th.

July 4, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Waco: 4th on the Brazos. See all of the excitement of the Independence Day celebration. Time: 3pm-10pm. Cost: Free. Location: 100 S. University Parks Dr. Region: Texas Prairies and Lakes. Average attendance: under 250,000. For more information, call 254-750-5980. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually on July 4th.

July 4, 2006 - FESTIVAL - The Woodlands: 9th Annual Red, Hot & Blue Festival. The Woodlands' single largest event is held in Town Green Park on the banks of The Woodlands Waterway. The 23-minute fireworks show, shot over The Woodlands Town Center, is the second largest in the Greater Houston region, second only to downtown Houston. Time: call. Cost: call. Location: From I-45 going South: Take the Robinson Road/Woodlands Parkway exit #76. Continue on I-45 feeder to Woodlands Parkway and turn right. Follow Festival Parking signs to park. From I-45 going North: Take the Woodlands Parkway exit (76B) and travel west on Woodlands Parkway. Follow Festival Parking signs. Region: Texas Gulf Coast. Average attendance: 200,000-500,000. For more information, call 281-363-2447 or visit www.redhotblue.org. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually on July 4th.

July 7-8, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Mason: 42nd Annual Roundup Weekend. The weekend has been designed to be a family event. There will be a rodeo, dance, Roundup Queens contest, parade, great American Burro Race, arts and crafts fair, washer pitching contest, food vendors and more. Location: Fort Mason City Park - Rodeo Courthouse Square. Region: Texas Hill Country. For more information, call 325-347-5758. Please mention this listing when inquiring.

July 7-9, 2006 - FESTIVAL - El Paso: Ysleta Mission Festival. Three days of fun, games, entertainment, and food. Entertainment by El Paso's best bands, Mariachi groups and Matachin Dancers. Take a tour of the Mission Trail, which includes the Socorro, Ysleta and San Elisario Missions. Our Lady of Mt. Carmel. Region: Texas Big Bend Country. For more information, call 915-859-9848 or 915-858-0338. Please mention this listing when inquiring.

July 8, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Levelland: Early Settlers Festival. For nearly 40 years, some 15,000 people come to celebrate country, bluegrass and Tejano music performances, old settler activities, more than 50 food booths, games, horseshoes, activities for kids, and a parade that lasts an hour or more. This year, folks will "Do the Drag" on Friday evening before in cars representing our history. Sponsored by the Levelland Area Chamber of Commerce. Time: All day. Cost: $1 wristband offers discounts on food and activities. Location: Downtown Square, Avenue H. Region: Texas Panhandle Plains. For more information, call (806) 894-3157. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, Saturday after July 4th.

July 8, 2006 - FESTIVAL - McDade: 57th Annual McDade Watermelon Festival. Our community has approximately 300 residents and is located on Hwy. 290 east, 10 miles east of Elgin, Texas and 30 miles east of Austin, Texas, in the Texas Hill Country. For information, call 512-273-0018. Held annually in July.

July 8, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Weatherford: Annual Parker County Peach Festival. Featuring over 200 vendors, the event will take place in Weatherford's historic downtown, from 9am to 5pm, complete with a children's area, craft vendors, and food of all kinds. There will be free parking from Weatherford College & The First Monday Grounds. Time: 9am-5pm. Cost: $3 Adult, $1 Child. Location: Historic Downtown. Region: Texas Prairies and Lakes. Average attendance: under 250,000. For more information call Weatherford Chamber of Commerce: 1-888-594-3801. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, 2nd Saturday in July.

July 14-15, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Fredericksburg: Night in Old Fredericksburg. Family fun in downtown Fredericksburg... Where the fun never sets. Great German food & drink, German music, arts and crafts, kids area, historical exhibits, and more. Time: Fri. 6pm-12 midnight, Sat. 11:30am-12 midnight. Cost: $6 per person, 2-day pass $10, $1 for kids 12/under. Location: Marktplatz, 100 block, West Main Street. Region: Texas Hill Country. Average attendance: under 50,000. For more information, call 1-866-TEX-FEST (839-3378) or visit www.tex-fest.com. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, third weekend in July.

July 15-17, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Medina: Love Creek Orchard's Great Hill Country Apple Pickin'. Load up in the hay wagon and put on your best hat and you are ready to pick the freshest apples in the US. Process them on the line, make apple cider, apple butter or just munch an apple. Arts and Crafts, music, apple goodies and lots of food. Great children's event. Trick dogs, trick horses and story telling. Good music. Time: 9am-6pm. Cost: $5 Adults, $3 Children 7-12, 6 and under free. Location: 13558 Hwy 16 North Medina, Texas 78055. Region: Texas Hill Country. Average attendance: under 50,000. For more information, call 800-449-0882 or visit us at www.lovecreekorchards.com. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, 2nd weekend in July.

July 21-23, 28-30, August 4-6, 11-13, 18-20, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Bryan: Harvest Festival. Featured on 5 weekends, activities include a tour of the vineyards, watching grape stomping, lunch and a wine-pairing seminar. Dinner features either a "murder/mystery" theme or dinner with the vintner (alternating weekends). Prices range from individual activities, lunch plus activities, to full day packages including lunch and dinner. Call for reservations: 979-778-9463. Location: Messina Hof Winery & Resort. Region: Texas Prairies and Lakes. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually.

July 22, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Chappell Hill: Chappell Hill Lavender Fest. Enjoy lavender fields in bloom, cut your own. learn how to make lavender wands, visit vendor booths and take garden tours of the nearby Inn at Dos Brisas. Time: 9am-6pm. Cost: Free Admission. Location: 2250 Dillard Road Chappell Hill, TX. Region: Texas Prairies and Lakes. Average attendance: under 50,000. For more information, call 979-251-8114 or visit www.chappellhilllavender.com. Please mention this listing when inquiring.

July 27-29, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Clute: 26th Annual Great Texas Mosquito Festival. Join Willy Manchew, the 25 foot mosquito for some one-of-a-kind Texas fun. The three day festival includes a mosquito calling contest, Mr. & Mrs. Mosquito Legs Contest, Ms. Quito Beauty Pageant, Baby Crawling Diaper Derby and the Senior Citizen Mosquito Swatter Decorating Contest. Between the bar-b-que, fajita, and rib cook-off, plus over 40 other food vendors, plenty of food will be available for every appetite. Demonstrate your sportsmanship at the horseshoe, washer, and volleyball tournament or join in the fun run and bike and in-line skating tour. Time: TBA. Cost: varies depending on entertainment. Location: Clute Community Park, Brazoswood Drive, in Clute, TX (Brazosport area). Region: Texas Gulf Coast. For more information or contest entry forms, call 1-800-371-2971 or 979-265-8392 or visit the Festival Information Page by clicking here. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, last Thursday, Friday and Saturday in July.

July 28-30, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Fort Worth: Gran Fiesta de Fort Worth. A colorful three-evening outdoor celebration of Latin music, art and cuisine. Continuous musical entertainment and performing arts, educational and cultural activities, fashion show, and marketplace. Location: Main Street. Region: Texas Prairies and Lakes. For more information, call 214-855-1881. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually.

July 28-30, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Knox City: 18th Annual Watermelon Festival and 7th Annual Classic Car Show. This event features horseshoe pitching, a sand volleyball tournament, food, free watermelon slices a watermelon-eating contest, parade, music and a classic car show. Location: City Park. Region: Texas Panhandle Plains. For more information, call 940-658-3442. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually,last weekend in July.

July 29, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Monahans: Butterfield Overland Stagecoach & Wagon Festival. Includes parade, entertainment, dances, arts and crafts, bull rides, and barbecue. Location: Ward County Fairgrounds. Region: Texas Big Bend Country. For more information, call 432-943-2187. Please mention this listing when inquiring.

July 29, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Somerville: 4th Annual Somerfest. Food booths, Car Parade at 3pm, Battle of the Bands begins at 5pm. Time: 10am-10pm. Cost: call. Location: Lake Somerville Mariana & Campground Park. Region: Texas Prairies and Lakes. Average attendance: under 50,000. For more information, call 979-596-2774, email: Somerfest@yahoo.com, or visit http://www.geocities.com/somerfest/. Please mention this listing when inquiring.

AUGUST

August 4-5, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Houston: 16th Annual Houston International Jazz Festival. Featuring some of the hottest local, national and international talent in jazz today. Time: Friday 2:30-10pm, Saturday 4-9pm. Cost: $15. Location: Jones Plaza, 615 Louisiana. Region: Texas Gulf Coast. Average attendance: under 250,000. For more information, call (281) 773-9346 or visit www.jazzeducation.org. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held Annually, 1st Weekend in August.

August 4-6, 11-13, 18-20, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Bryan: Harvest Festival. Featured on 5 weekends, activities include a tour of the vineyards, watching grape stomping, lunch and a wine-pairing seminar. Dinner features either a "murder/mystery" theme or dinner with the vintner (alternating weekends). Prices range from individual activities, lunch plus activities, to full day packages including lunch and dinner. Call for reservations: 979-778-9463. Location: Messina Hof Winery & Resort. Region: Texas Prairies and Lakes. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually.

August 4-6, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Marathon: "Living With Nature Festival II ". Lectures, workshops and nature tours highlighting eco-construction, off-the-grid living, sustainable ranching, low impact development and other arid land disciplines. Evening events will feature local West Texas arts and live music. Time: call. Cost: call. Location: The Richey Bros. Bldg., Central Marathon. Region: Texas Big Bend Country. Average attendance: under 50,000. For more information, call 432-386-4257. Please mention this listing when inquiring.

August 4-6, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Schulenburg: Schulenburg Festival. Golf, men & women's softball, 3-on 3 basketball tournaments, 5K run, rodeo, carnival, arts & crafts, chili and bar-b-q cookoffs, live music, parade and kiddie parade, tricycle races and more. Time: Friday 6pm ends Sunday 9pm. Cost: Friday night $15, Sat. night after 7:00 $5. Location: Wolters Park. Region: Texas Prairies and Lakes. Average attendance: under 50,000. For more information, call or visit www.schulenburgfestival.org. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, first weekend in August.

August 5, 2006 - FAIR - Harlingen: Jackson Street Market Days. An old fashioned open-air street fair with antiques, crafts, sidewalk sales, produce cart, and food vendors. Part of Jackson Street is blocked off for this event. Sponsored by the Harlingen Downtown Merchants Association. Time: 9am - 4pm. Cost: Free. Location: Jackson Street in downtown Harlingen. Region: Texas Gulf Coast. Average attendance: under 50,000. For more information, call (956) 423-4933. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held monthly, 1st Saturday.

August 8-12, 2006 - FESTIVAL - De Leon: De Leon Peach & Melon Festival. We kick-off the week long festival by crowning our Queen on Tuesday night. Taking time to shop the Arts and Craft booths, stopping for some tasty food provided by our local civic organizations. Our Carnival runs all week with a Tractor Pull event beginning on Thursday night. Saturday night is a concert at 9pm. See website for a complete list of exciting events. Time: All evenings including Saturday (all Day & evening). Cost: Gate admission $2. Location: Hwy 6, Downtown De Leon. Region: Texas Prairies and Lakes. Average attendance: under 50,000. For more information, call 254-893-6600 or visit www.deleonpeachandmelonfestival.com. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, first full week in August.

August 11-12, 2006 - FAIR - Sonora: 33rd Annual Sutton County Days. Held every year in conjunction with the Sonora Outlaw Pro Rodeo on the third weekend of August. Enjoy Arts & craft booths, food booths, parade, dances on Friday & Saturday Night, children's rides & games. Dance under the starry West Texas Skies. Come for food, fun, and West Texas Hospitality. Location: Sutton County Park & Arena Complex. Region: Texas Hill Country. Average attendance: under 50,000. For more information, call 325-387-2880. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually in August.

August 14-16, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Big Bend National Park: 3rd Annual Big Bend Nature Festival. Four days of jeep tours, nature hikes, evening socials, and afternoon lectures about birds, bugs, mammals, geology, paleontology, and reptiles. (reception space, meals, and discounted room packages for the weekend offered). A Saturday night gala dinner concludes the Park-based portion of the Nature Festival. Time: call. Cost: $85 for individuals, and $140 for couples. Location: Big Bend National Park Basin, off TX 118. Center of Park. Region: Texas Big Bend Country. Average attendance: under 50,000. For more information, call 432-477-2236 or visit www.bigbendnaturefeastival.com. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, in August.

August 18-26, 2006 - FAIR - Denton: Annual North Texas State Fair. A nine-day event that occurs every August. The fair features a carnival, rodeo, photography contest, parade and the crowing of a Rodeo Queen, among many other festivities. Time: Fridays 6pm-1am, Saturdays 1pm-1am, Sunday 1pm-11pm, Monday-Thursday 6pm-12pm. Cost: Call or visit website. Location: North Texas Fairgrounds - 2217 N. Carroll Blvd. in Denton, TX. Region: Texas Prairies and Lakes. For more information, call 940-387-2632 or visit www.northtexasstatefair.com. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually.

August 19, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Amarillo: Polk Street Block Party. One of Amarillo's biggest parties is the Polk Street Block Party. Sponsored by Center City of Amarillo, proceeds help Center City's plans to encourage a re-development and re-birth of downtown Amarillo. Food, drink, music and games highlight this night of celebration. Time: 4pm to midnight. Location: Downtown Amarillo along Polk Street. Region: Texas Panhandle Plains. For more information, call 806-372-6744. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually in August.

August 25-26, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Fort Stockton: HarvestFest. A fun filled family event including live entertainment, arts & crafts booths, food vendors, KidzFest area, car show, 5K Run, Fitness Walk, 3 on 3 Basketball and Softball Tournaments, Wine Emporium and Old West Saloon. Souvenirs and lots more. Time: 7am-1am Cost: Free. Location: Rooney Park, W. Hwy. 285 @ Gonzales Loop. Region: Texas Big Bend Country. Average attendance: under 250,000. For more information, call 432-336-8525 #17. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually.

September

September 1, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Bandera: Celebrate Bandera. Held in downtown Bandera to honor Bandera's cowboy and western heritage. Features a dance, longhorn cattle drive, parades, food & entertainment, arts & crafts, reenactments, rodeos, celebrity concert, and cowboy church. Location: Multiple locations within Bandera, TX. Region: Texas Hill Country. Average attendance: 10,000 - 15,000. For more information, call 830-796-4447. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, Labor Day Weekend.

September 1-3, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Freeport: Summertime Blues Festival & Biker Rally. Great food and cool blues to end the summer right. Live music, biker games, vendors, parade, cookoff, kids' games, fireworks, and lots more. Time: 6pm-11pm . Cost: Free. Location: Memorial Park Downtown, 200 W. Park Ave., Freeport, TX 77541. Region: Texas Gulf Coast. Average attendance: under 50,000. For more information, call 979-233-3526 or visit www.freeport.tx.us. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, Labor Day weekend.

September 1-17, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Odessa: The Southwest Shakespeare Festival. In September The Globe is alive and kickin'. Fast-growing annual festival featuring plays based on the works of William Shakespeare, performed at The Globe Theatre. The Globe is modeled after Shakespeare's original Globe Theatre in England. Time: Call for performance schedule. Cost: Admission charged. Location: At the Globe Theatre, 2308 Shakespeare Road. Region: Texas Big Bend Country. Average attendance: under 250,000. For more information, call 432-580-3177. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, beginning first week in September.

September 2, 2006 - FAIR - Brady: World Championship Barbeque Goat Cook-Off & Arts & Crafts Fair. There will be the Goat Cook-Off as well as the Arts & Crafts Fair, Food Vendors, and Game Vendors. The event will be followed by a street dance held on the town square featuring Aarron Watson. Time: 9am-6pm. Cost: none. Location: Richards Park on Memory Lane. Region: Texas Hill Country. Average attendance: under 250,000. For more information please contact the Brady/McCulloch County Chamber of Commerce at 325-597-3491 or email at dpcofc@hotmail.com. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, Labor Day Weekend.

September 2, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Fredericksburg: 4th Annual Jelly Jamboree. Celebrating 10 years of introducing the Original Roasted Raspberry Chipotle Sauce. Recipe Contest for best new use. Music, Art and Crafts, poetry reading on the grounds of Fischer & Wieser's das Peachhaus. Time: 10am-8pm. Cost: Free. Location: 1406 South US Hwy 87. Region: Texas Hill Country. Average attendance: under 50,000. For more information, call 830-997-7194 ext. 230 or visit www.jelly.com. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, Labor Day Weekend.

September 2, 2006 - FAIR - Harlingen: Jackson Street Market Days. An old fashioned open-air street fair with antiques, crafts, sidewalk sales, produce cart, and food vendors. Part of Jackson Street is blocked off for this event. Sponsored by the Harlingen Downtown Merchants Association. Time: 9am - 4pm. Cost: Free. Location: Jackson Street in downtown Harlingen. Region: Texas Gulf Coast. Average attendance: under 50,000. For more information, call (956) 423-4933. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held monthly, 1st Saturday.

September 2, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Nacogdoches: Americana Music Festival. The crossroads of American roots music will meet the brick streets of the oldest town in Texas in downtown Nacogdoches. It is a celebration of the various genres of music that are indigenous to the United States, including country, bluegrass, jazz, gospel and rock. Local, regional and nationally known acts will perform on two stages throughout the day. Aside from the musical performances, the Americana Festival also offers a juried art show, an art car display, music workshops and children's activities. Time: 11am-11pm. Cost: FREE. Location: Festival Plaza, 507 S. Pecan. Region: Texas Piney Woods. Average attendance: under 50,000. For more information, call 888-OLDEST-TOWN. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held Annually, Labor Day Weekend.

September 2-3, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Uvalde: Palomino Fest. The festival includes continuous family entertainment featuring a ranch rodeo, Country and Tejano music from various artists including Los Palominos and La Mafia. Time: Sat & Sun 2pm - 12 Midnight. Cost: $10; Children 10 & under free. Free parking. Location: Uvalde Fairgrounds on Hwy. 90, 75 minutes west of San Antonio at the foothills of the beautiful Texas Hill Country. Region: South Texas Plains. Average attendance: under 250,000. For more information, call 830-278-5359 or 830-591-7351, or visit www.palominofest.com. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, Labor Day Weekend.

September 7-10, 2006 - FAIR - Columbus: Colorado County Fair. Live music featuring nationally known artists, parades, pageants, livestock, food, art & photography, BBQ, baked goods, carnival rides & games, rodeo and so much more. Time: Varies. Cost: Varies. Location: 602 Walnut. Region: Texas Prairies and Lakes. Average attendance: under 50,000. For more information, call 979-732-9266 or visit www.coloradocountyfair.org. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, 2nd weekend in September.

September 7-10, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Grapevine: 20th Annual GrapeFest. Join wine novices and connoisseurs at the largest wine festival in the Southwest. Sample award winning Texas wines at this annual event offering four full days of fun. Visit Grapevine's winery/tasting rooms via complimentary shuttle vans. The international wine area will feature wines from many countries. Listen to live music on stages located throughout historic Main Street. Get "into" the action at the competitive GrapeStomp, where you and your partner could win the coveted Purple Foot award. Volunteers are needed and welcomed at GrapeFest. Uncork the fun at GrapeFest! Time: Thursday: 11am-10:30pm (free), Friday: 10am-5pm (free), Friday: 6pm-11:30pm, Saturday: 10am-11:30pm, Sunday: 11am-6pm. Admission Cost: General Daily $6, Seniors & Students $3, Daily Admission Family rate $15, Weekend Pass, $10, Souvenir Weekend Pass, $15. Location: Main Street, Downtown Historic Grapevine. Region: Texas Prairies and Lakes. For more information, call 817-410-3185 or visit www.tourtexas.com/grapevine/grapefest. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Annual event held the second week in September.

September 8-9, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Sweet Home: 6th Annual Sweet Home Music Fest. Come visit us in beautiful Downtown, Sweet Home, Texas. The proceeds support our local school, Volunteer Fire Dept., and other community causes. As the festival continues to grow, we add attractions to accommodate the entire family. The event will start on Friday evening with a free outdoor concert. Then Saturday the fun continues with a barbecue cook off, car, truck, & motorcycle show, arts and crafts, horseshoe tournament, food, games, and an entire day & night of live original music. There will be space available for camping so we invite everyone to join us for the campfire pickin' parties & song swaps all weekend long. Location: FM 531. Region: South Texas Plains. Average attendance: under 250,000. To inquire about sponsorship, event entry, or further information Contact John Reeves 361-293-5759 or visit www.sweethomemusicfest.org. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, 2nd Weekend in September.

September 8-16, 2006 - FAIR - Odessa: Permian Basin Fair & Exposition. The Permian Basin's largest annual event. Nine fun-filled days feature live entertainment, a livestock show, great food, a petting zoo, a carnival, arts & crafts and much more. Time: Fri 5pm - midnight, Sat 10am - midnight, Sun 10am-10pm, Mon-Thurs 5pm-10pm. Cost: Adults $6, Seniors & Children (12 & under) $4. Location: 42nd St. & Andrews Hwy. Region: Texas Big Bend Country. Average attendance: under 250,000. For more information, call 1-877-550-3232. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, weekend following Labor Day.

September 9, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Denton: Arts, Antiques & Autos Extravaganza. Juried art booths, Attic Treasure Appraisals, classic car show, special Kid Zone, Chalk Art Fest and festival foods make this event fun for the entire family. Find that special object d'art, have a family heirloom appraised, enjoy strolling entertainment or check out the dream machines lining the historic downtown square. For info: www.dentonmainstreet.org. Time: 10am to 5pm. Cost: FREE. Location: 101 S. Locust, Historic Downtown Square. Region: Texas Prairies and Lakes. Average attendance: under 50,000. For more information, call 940-349-8529. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, 2nd Saturday in September.

September 9-10, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Gruene: 3rd Annual Texas Metal Arts - A Festival at Gruene. There will be demonstrations and exhibitions of 25 metal artists with work ranging from fine jewelry to blacksmithing, in Gruene Historic District. Time: 10am-5pm. Cost: Free. Location: 1601 Hunter Road. Region: Texas Hill Country. Average attendance: under 250,000. For more information, call Zeke & Marty at 903-852-3311 or go to www.texasmetalarts.com. Please mention this listing when inquiring.

September 9-10, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Houston: Pickin' & Peddlin' Bluegrass Festival at Traders Village. Some of the best Bluegrass bands in Texas converge on Traders Village in NW Houston each September for two days of pickin' and grinnin' beneath the 2.5-acre Blue Expo. Music begins at 10am both days at the Carmax Concert Stage. Time: 10am-5pm. Cost: Free admission, $2 parking. Location: Traders Village, 7979 N. Eldridge, Houston, TX 77041. Region: Texas Gulf Coast. Average attendance: under 250,000. For more information, call 281-890-5500. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, second weekend in September.

September 15-17, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Anahuac: Texas GATORFEST. A weekend of family fun, food and entertainment awaits one and all at historic Fort Anahuac Park. Texas GATORFEST is truly the most unique festival in the state, combining the alligator and family fun for a good old Texas two-stepping good time. Witness the Great Texas Alligator Roundup, take an airboat ride or a river boat tour, enjoy three stages of entertainment, Texas Artisans, merchants and the scenic waterfront beer garden. Take a whirl on the adult carnival rides and treat the kids to the kiddie rides, pony rides and petting zoo. On Saturday and Sunday, witness the Great Texas Alligator Roundup and visit the Alligator Education Tent to get an up close and personal view of live gators, which outnumber Chambers County citizens by almost 3 to 1. Time: Friday 6pm until 12 midnight. Saturday, 10am until 12 midnight. Sunday 12 noon until 6pm. Cost: $10/Adult - $5/Students 18 & under & Seniors 65 & over - Under 5 Free - Parking Free. Location: Historic Fort Anahuac Park. Region: Texas Gulf Coast. Average attendance: under 250,000. For more information, call the "Gator Hotline" at 409/267-4190 or visit the official website at www.texasgatorfest.com. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, weekend following the opening of alligator season in Texas on September 10.

September 15-17, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Cleburne: Antique Alley & Yard Sale. 15-mile country shopping extravaganza via FM 4 from Cleburne to Grandview with special shows, yard sales, store promotions and fund raisers offering antiques, collectibles, arts, crafts, food and more since 1999. Vendor Inquiries Welcomed. Time: 8am-5pm. Location: FM 4, 15 miles Cleburne to Grandview. Region: Texas Prairies and Lakes. Average attendance: under 50,000. For more information, call 817-641-0183 or visit http://alley.cleburne.com. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held bi-annually, 3rd full weekends in April & September.

September 15-17, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Brownwood: Annual Brownwood Reunion Celebration. Mayor Massey officially invites you to come celebrate our version of Mayberry, Brownwood, Texas with us. Dance under the stars, meet some new and old friends, enter friendly competitions, stroll down the avenue, and eat everything from festival favorites to great down home cooking. We will fill 20 city blocks with surprises, attractions, friends, great cooking, crafters, parades, bull rides, web fan cams, Apache helicopters, good times and so much more. We would love to have you. Time: Friday 5pm-12pm, Saturday 10am-12pm, Sunday 11am-5pm. Admission to festival grounds is FREE. Admissions to nightly concerts range from $10-$30. Location: 600 E. Depot Brownwood Texas 76801. Region: Texas Panhandle Plains. Average attendance: 20,000-30,000. For more information, call 325-641-1182 or 324-998-INFO or visit www.BrownwoodTX.com. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, third Weekend in September.

September 15-23, 2006 - FAIR - Amarillo: Tri-State Fair. Midway, rides, games, food booths, concerts, free shows, animal exhibits, a rodeo and more. Location: Amarillo Tri-State Fairgrounds 10th and Grand Street. Region: Texas Panhandle Plains. Average attendance: under 250,000. For more information, call 806-376-7767. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, third week in September.

September 16, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Richmond: Fiestas Patrias. Celebrate two Mexican national holidays! "Diez Y Seis de Septiembre" commemorates Mexico's independence from Spain in 1825, & Cinco de Mayo celebrates Mexico's freedom from French forces in Mexico in 1862. Music, food & craft booths, watermelon and jalapeno eating contest, a car show, children's activities & the Fiestas Patrias Queen coronation. Time: Noon to 6pm. Cost: Free. Location: Fort Bend Museum 500 Houston Richmond, Texas 77469. Region: Texas Gulf Coast. Average attendance: under 250,000. For more information, call 281-342-6478. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually.

September 16, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Tyler: Festival on the Square. Enjoy a day of fun for the family on the square in Downtown Tyler. This celebration of arts and entertainment features everything from a daytime children's area with crafts and fun activities to an evening concert under the stars. Arts and Crafts show, musical performances, a volleyball tournament, arts demonstration and more. Time: 10am - midnight. Cost: Concert at night $10 in advance, $15 at gate. Location: Downtown Square in Tyler. Region: Texas Piney Woods. Average attendance: under 50,000. For more information, call 903-593-6905 or visit www.heartoftyler.org. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, 3rd Saturday in September.

September 16-17, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Houston: Hot Sauce Festival. Featuring award winning hot sauce, salsa, jams, spices, marinades, chips, dips and more fiery food products. Ongoing stage entertainment, free kids activities, cold drinks, a wide variety of food, "amateur salsa competition", contests, prizes, arts & crafts, pepper merchandise, and more. Time: Sat. 11-6, Sun. Noon-5. Cost: $3. Location: Houston Farm and Ranch Club #1 Abercrombie Dr. Houston, TX 7707. Region: Texas Gulf Coast. Average attendance: under 250,000. For more information, call 281-558-3518 or email carolfmhou@houston.rr.com. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually in September.

September 20-23, 2006 - FAIR - Brenham: 138th Washington County Fair. "Oldest County Fair in Texas." Shows, Rodeos, Music and Fun! Nashville entertainment, carnival, crafts, food livestock and poultry auctions, commercial exhibits and attractions. Time: call. Cost: $10 daily, $15 advance season ticket. Location: Washington County Fairgrounds 1305 E. Blue Bell Road. Region: Texas Prairies and Lakes. Average attendance: 50,000-200,000. For more information, call 979-836-4112 or visit www.washingtoncofair.com. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually.

September 21-23, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Abilene: 5th Annual West Texas Book & Author Festival. Writing & Publish workshops, Cook-book Gala, Cooking demonstration, "Hall of Texas Authors" with more than 100 Texas authors and publishers who display, sell & autograph books. Presentations are held throughout the day. Abilene Public Library & Abilene Civic Center Call for more information. Location: Abilene Public Library 202 Cedar. Region: Texas Panhandle Plains. For more information, call 325-676-6025, Ricki Brown. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, 4th weekend in September.

September 22-24, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Abilene: 12th Annual Hot Air Balloon Festival. Sponsored by Optimist Unlimited Club of Abilene...featuring nightly balloon glow, arts & crafts, games, food booths, children's contests, & street dance on Saturday night. Hare & Hound Race on Saturday & Sunday mornings. Cost: Free. Location: Red Bud Park 3125 South 32nd Street. Region: Texas Panhandle Plains. For more information, call 325-692-2637, Lynda Wilson. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, 4th weekend in September.

September 22-24, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Plano: 27th Annual Community Credit Union Plano Balloon Festival. A 3-day event with something for everyone. Over 100 hot air balloons fill the Plano sky while festival attendees are entertained by concerts, the Kids Fun Zone, a Festival Marketplace, and tantalizing food vendors. Plus this year features a Friday night "street dance", and a spectacular Saturday night fireworks. Time: Friday: 4pm, Saturday: 7am-10pm, Sunday: 7am-7pm. Cost: One time entrance ticket $4, Saturday or Sunday All-Day Pass $6, Weekend Pass $15. Children under 36 inches tall are free. Location: Oak Point Park, 2800 East Spring Creek Parkway, Plano. Region: Texas Prairies and Lakes. For ticket info & other details, contact Jo Via at 972-867-7566 or visit www.planoballoonfest.org. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually.

September 23, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Bandera: Cajun Festival & Great Gumbo Cookoff. Authentic Cajun food & music on several stages, Cajun dance contest, arts & crafts. Sponsored by the Medina Lake Betterment Association at the Lakehills Civic Center. Shuttle parking available. Time: 11:30am - 10pm. Cost: $7 adult, under 10 free. Location: Lakehills Civic Center. Region: Texas Hill Country. Average attendance: under 250,000. For more information, call 830-751-2727 or visit www.cajunfestival-medinalake.com. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, last weekend in September.

September 23, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Hallettsville: Kolache Fest. Join us for a day filled with fun, food and music. Outside entertainment in the Biergarten along with music inside the hall. Days events include: downtown parade, arts & crafts, car show, karaoke contests, kolache eating contests, special family area with plenty of rides and attractions. Time: Gates open at 7am. Cost: Adults, $5; Seniors & Children, $3; 6 and under free. Location: 311 Hwy 77 South. Region: Texas Gulf Coast. Average attendance: under 250,000. For more information, call 361-798-2662. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, last weekend in September.

September 23-30, 2006 - FAIR - Hempstead: Waller County Fair. We invite you to "Kick Up Your Heels" and have some great family fun. Enjoy events such as a bull riding blowout, ranch rodeo, youth rodeo, Mutton Bustin', roping, and other rodeo fun, a greased pig contest, BBQ cook-off, carnival, Junior Livestock auction, live entertainment, and more. Fun for all ages. Time: Parade kicks off 9am on Saturday. Cost: Daily $7, Rodeo $8, Concert $10. Location: FM 359 @ Old Hempstead RD (Hwy 290 W). Region: Texas Gulf Coast. Average attendance: under 50,000. For more information, call 979-826-2825 or visit www.wallercountyfair.org for complete schedule of events. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, last week in September.

September 26 - October 1, 2006 - FAIR - New Braunfels: Comal County Fair. One of Texas' oldest and largest county fairs with exhibits, carnival, rodeo and entertainment. Location: 801 E. Common Street. Region: Texas Hill Country. Average attendance: under 50,000. For more information, call 830-625-1505. Please mention this listing when inquiring.

September 29 - October 22, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Dallas: State Fair of Texas. The 2006 Fair highlights include top country and pop artists, a laser light show, fireworks, a fall gardening exposition, gourmet food prepared by celebrity chefs, the USMC Drum & Bugle Corps, a car show, the Oktoberfest Biergarten, agriculture and livestock exhibitions, and much more. Location: Fair Park, Downtown Dallas. Region: Texas Prairies and Lakes. For more information, call (214) 565-9931, E-mail: pr@bigtex.com, or visit www.bigtex.com. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually.

September 30, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Marathon: Marathon West Fest and Cabrito Cook Off. This great family event includes a softball tournament, washer pitchin' contest, Saturday night dance and a Cabrito contest that awards prizes for best cook team and best show team. Lots of music, food and family fun. Time: call. Cost: call. Location: The Richey Bros. Bldg., Central Marathon. Region: Texas Big Bend Country. Average attendance: under 50,000. For more information, call 432-386-4516. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually in September.

October

(September 26) - October 1, 2006 - FAIR - New Braunfels: Comal County Fair. One of Texas' oldest and largest county fairs with exhibits, carnival, rodeo and entertainment. Location: 801 E. Common Street. Region: Texas Hill Country. Average attendance: under 50,000. For more information, call 830-625-1505. Please mention this listing when inquiring.

(September 29) - October 22, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Dallas: State Fair of Texas. The 2006 Fair highlights include top country and pop artists, a laser light show, fireworks, a fall gardening exposition, gourmet food prepared by celebrity chefs, the USMC Drum & Bugle Corps, a car show, the Oktoberfest Biergarten, agriculture and livestock exhibitions, and much more. Location: Fair Park, Downtown Dallas. Region: Texas Prairies and Lakes. For more information, call (214) 565-9931, E-mail: pr@bigtex.com, or visit www.bigtex.com. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually.

(September 30) - November 19, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Houston: Texas Renaissance Festival. The nation's largest and most acclaimed renaissance theme park, where the sights, sounds, tastes, and beauty of the 16th Century, comes alive for 8 weekends. Featuring: Live music on the Cloister Stage; Full contact jousting three times daily; The Beautiful Gardens of New Market Village; 20 stages with over 200 performances daily; Over 300 Arts and Crafts Shoppes; Foods from around the world at 60 different shoppes; The Royal Fireworks, nightly at The Tournament Field; Over 3,000 costumed characters daily. Time: 9am till Dark. Cost: Opening weekend: Adults $11, Child(5-12) $6; Advance tickets: Adults $16, Child(5-12) $7; Gate tickets: Adults $21, Child(5-12) $10; $5 camping available; Free Parking. Location: 21778 FM 1774, Plantersville, TX 77363. Region: Texas Gulf Coast. Average attendance: 200,000-500,000. For more information, call 800-458-3435 or visit www.texrenfest.com. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually in October.

October 3-4, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Frisco: The Great Steak of Texas Festival. The Great Steak of Texas Festival is a heritage celebration of the beef and cattle industries and their historic impact on the city of Frisco, Texas. Gala dinner on Friday evening. Saturday features a bed race and a long horn cattle drive plus musical entertainment, Heritage games, chuck wagons and food, children's activities and evening musical concert. Time: call. Cost: $3 per Adult. Location: Central Park is on Parkwood Drive between Gaylord and Warren. Region: Texas Prairies and Lakes. Average attendance: under 50,000. For more information, call 972-335-9522 or visit www.greatsteakoftexas.com. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, 1st weekend in October.

October 5-7, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Center: 30th Annual East Texas Poultry Festival. This festival will feature a carnival, broiler show and auction, entertainment, arts and crafts booths, games and contests, and concessions served by non-profit organizations, civic groups, and church groups. Time: Begins at 10am each day. Cost: call for prices. Location: Historic downtown in Center, Texas. Region: Texas Piney Woods. Average attendance: under 250,000. For more information, call 936-598-3682. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, beginning the first Thursday in October.

October 6-8, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Fredericksburg: Oktoberfest. A colorful, festive celebration of Fredericksburg's German heritage. The event was originated in 1810 by the Germany's Prince Ludwig, and has become an annual tradition around the world. Oktoberfest is a community event of family entertainment featuring three stages with continuous oompah music, arts/crafts, polka and waltz contests, Children's fun area ~ Kinder Park, a German Bier Garten, an Oktoberfest Vineyard area, and delicious food and drink all weekend long. Time: Friday: 6pm-12 Midnight, Saturday: 10am-12 Midnight. Cost: Adults $6 daily, Children 6-12 $1, Under 6 Free. Location: Downtown Market Square 100 West Main. Region: Texas Hill Country. Average attendance: under 250,000. For more information, call 830-997-4810. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually.

October 6-8, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Gonzales: Come and Take It Festival. The first shot of the Texas Revolution was fired in Gonzales on October 2, 1835. "Come & Take It" was the battle cry. It is celebrated with weekend events a parade, sport contest, carnival, arts & craft food and drinks. At Pioneer Village you can watch the reenactment of the battle. Check out the Old Jail Museum, Memorial Museum and the Come and Take It Battleground. Time: all day. Location: Downtown Gonzales. Region: Texas Prairies and Lakes. Average attendance: under 50,000. For more information, call 1-888-672-1095. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, 1st full weekend in October.

October 6-8, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Gruene: 20th Annual Gruene Music and Wine Fest. This Americana event benefiting Hospice and Comal County United Way features the best in live Texas music and the best in Texas food & wines at Gruene Hall and The Grapevine. All 3 days will be filled with vintner and music events, wine and food samplings, silent auction, and a Sunday Gospel Brunch with a Texas Twist. Time: Fri 6pm -midnight; Sat noon - midnight, Sun 10:30am - noon and 2pm to 9pm. Cost: call for more info Location: Gruene Historic District in New Braunfels Region: Texas Hill Country. Average attendance: under 250,000. Call (830) 629-5077 or toll free from San Antonio (830) 606-1601.Visit our Web site at www.gruenehall.com for tickets and www.gruenetexas.com for more information on Historic Gruene. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, over Columbus day weekend.

October 6-8, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Rockport: Seafair. All Seafood Gumbo Contestants head our way for the fabulous cook-off. See Chef Demonstrations, boat show, arts and crafts, live performances, live bands, boat rides and so much more. 1-800-242-0071. Time: 5pm. to 11pm. Friday, 10am to 11pm. Saturday and 11am to 6pm. Sunday. Cost: $5 adults, $2 children under, 6 and under free. Location: Navigation District Festival Grounds at Rockport Harbor. Region: Texas Gulf Coast. Average attendance: under 250,000. For more information, call 1-800-242-0071. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, Columbus Day Weekend.

October 7, 2006 - FAIR - Harlingen: Jackson Street Market Days. An old fashioned open-air street fair with antiques, crafts, sidewalk sales, produce cart, and food vendors. Part of Jackson Street is blocked off for this event. Sponsored by the Harlingen Downtown Merchants Association. Time: 9am - 4pm. Cost: Free. Location: Jackson Street in downtown Harlingen. Region: Texas Gulf Coast. Average attendance: under 50,000. For more information, call (956) 423-4933. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held monthly, 1st Saturday.

October 7-8, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Richardson: Cottonwood Art Festival. Enjoy high-quality art in a relaxing, but fun, upscale atmosphere with fabulous music. There's something for every member of the family. For two weekends each year, this event draws local, regional, and national artists as well as local bands performing the best in rock, country, jazz, blues, swing and folk. Time: 9am-6pm. Cost: Free Admission & Free Parking. Location: Cottonwood Park in Richardson, TX, one block east of Coit Rd. on Belt Line Rd. Region: Texas Prairies and Lakes. Average attendance: under 250,000. For more information call (972)744-4580 or visit www.cottonwoodartfestival.com. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, twice a year in May & October.

October 7-8, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Katy: 26th Annual Katy Rice Harvest Festival. This festival includes a full-scale carnival, 3 stages of entertainment, over 300 food and craft booths, photography and rice cooking contests, parade and pageant. The event draws 50,000 to 60,000 over the weekend. Time: 10am-Midnight on Saturday and Noon to 6pm on Sunday. Location: Historic Downtown Katy. Region: Texas Gulf Coast. For more information, call 281-828-1100. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, 2nd Weekend in October.

October 11-15, 2006 - FAIR - Nacogdoches: Pineywoods Fair. The Pineywoods Fair features local livestock, vendor exhibits, carnival rides, variety of food vendors and live stage entertainment to round out the perfect fair for the oldest town in Texas. Time: Wednesday 4pm-11pm, Thursday 4pm-11pm, Friday 4pm-2am, Saturday 11am-12 midnight, Sunday 1pm-11pm. Cost: $5 adult, $4 seniors (55 and over), $3 children (ages 6-12), 5 and under are free. Location: 3805 NW Stallings Drive, Nacogdoches, Texas 75964. Region: Texas Piney Woods. Average attendance: under 50,000. For more information, call 936-564-0849 or visit www.nacexpo.net. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, 2nd full weekend of October.

October 12-15, 2006 - FAIR - Seguin: Guadalupe County Fair and PRCA Rodeo. Family fun and PRCA rodeo. Location: Guadalupe County Fair Grounds Austin St, Seguin, Texas. Region: South Texas Plains. Average attendance: under 250,000. For more information, call 830-379-6477. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, 2nd weekend in October.

October 13-14, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Marshall: Fire Ant Festival. Where else can you enjoy good food, fine entertainment, excellent art/craft booths, and still have a 5K run, chili cook-off, ugly face making contest, fire ant calling, rubber chicken chunking contest, parade, Tour de Fireant Bike Race? The list goes on and on, just come enjoy and see it for yourself. Location: Downtown Marshall Texas - North Washington Street. Region: Texas Piney Woods. Average attendance: under 250,000. For more information, call 903-935-7868. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, 2nd weekend in October.

October 13-15, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Cuero: 34th Annual Cuero Turkeyfest. A celebration of which the North Star, Worthington, Minnesota and the Lone Star, Cuero, Texas, come together for the 2nd heat of a friendly rivalry of the Great Gobbler Gallop. The kick-off dance on Friday starts the weekend off with featured artist Dean Seltzer & the Redneck Mothers. Join us at 10am Saturday to see which Turkey claims the title for their city as the "Turkey Capitol of the World". After the parade downtown Esplanade it's up to the city park where the action takes place, featuring dances and live entertainment under covered pavilion. Also, for your enjoyment you're guaranteed lots of food, beer pen, arts & crafts, lawn mower races, PRCA Rodeo, and much more. Discover a little history at the South Texas Wheel Spinners Tractor Show, authentic Dutch Oven Cooking and Living History. Children's activities include a Kiddy Parade and Tractor Pull, Rock Wall Climbing and Carnival. Location: Cuero City Park. Region: South Texas Plains. Average attendance: under 250,000. For more information, call 361-275-2112. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, 2nd Weekend in October.

October 13-15, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Fredericksburg: Texas Mesquite Art Festival. Over 50 talented mesquite wood artisans come to Fredericksburg to showcase their handcrafted mesquite products. Featuring the world's largest selection of original mesquite art, sculpture, furniture, turnings, architectural accents, gift items, ornaments and more. Time: Friday Noon-6pm, Saturday 10am-6pm, Sunday 10am-4pm. Location: Marktplatz, Downtown Fredericksburg, Texas 78624. Region: Texas Hill Country. Average attendance: under 50,000. For more information, visit www.texasmesquiteassn.org or call 1-866-TEX-FEST (839-3378). Please mention this listing when inquiring.

October 13-15, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Conroe: Annual Conroe Cajun Catfish Festival. The Conroe Cajun Catfish Festival is choreographed for all ages and ethnic diversities, bringing together a "community happening". Music on four stages, exhibitors, delicious food, kids area, fishing contest, and a carnival make this annual festival one of the most popular events in Texas. Time: Fri 6pm-12; Sat 11am-12; Sun 12 noon-6pm. Cost: $10. Location: 334 N. Main St. (Downtown Conroe). Region: Texas Piney Woods. Average attendance: under 50,000. For more information, call 1-800-324-2604 or visit conroecajuncatfishfestival.com. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, 2nd weekend in October.

October 14, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Mineral Wells: 27th Annual Crazy Water Festival. Come and tour the Famous Water Company, Creative Arts Center, Crazy 5K run, blazing bike ride on rails to trails. Arts, crafts, food, children's games and rides, petting zoo, beer garden, continuous live entertainment, & a street dance. Time: 9am till dark. Location: Downtown Mineral Wells, US HWY 281 N & US HWY 180 E. Region: Texas Prairies and Lakes. Average attendance: under 250,000. For more information, call 800 252-6989. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, 2nd Saturday in October.

October 14-15, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Houston: Bayou City Art Festival Downtown. This juried festival hosts local & national artists introducing their newest original artwork in 17 categories. The outdoor gallery with a festival setting offers the beautiful skyline of downtown and a feast for your senses: artwork; wine cafes; the Creative Zone for kids and those who still create like kids; Houston restaurants representing a myriad of cultures; and the Houston Theater District Stage presenting a full weekend of performing art. The 2004 Charity Partners include: The Museum of Fine Arts Houston; DiverseWorks; Art League of Houston; Multicultural Education and Counseling Through the Arts (MECA); Downtown YMCA Youth and Urban Services; SNAP (Spay-Neuter Assistance Program); Bering Omega Community Foundation; Several Dancers Core and Lawndale Arts Center. Time: 10am-6pm. Cost: $8 adults; FREE for children 12 and under. Location: City Hall Downtown at Hermann Square and Tranquillity Park. Region: Texas Gulf Coast. Average attendance: under 250,000. For more information, call 713-521-0133 or go to www.bayoucityartfestival.com. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, second weekend in October.

October 19-22, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Mission: 11th Annual Texas Butterfly Festival. You are cordially invited to experience nature at it best. You will enjoy expertly guided field trips; learn about butterflies from internationally-renowned speakers, a butterfly/nature expo, a South Texas BBQ Dinner, and much more. Location: Mission Park and Recreation Department, 721 N Bryan Rd. Region: South Texas Plains. Average attendance: under 250,000. For more information, call 1-800-580-2700 or log on to www.texasbutterfly.com. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, 3rd weekend in October.

October 19-22, 2006 - FESTIVAL - South Padre Island: Sand Castle Days. Art and Architecture in sand. A great family event showcasing 15 International Sand Masters competing for over $5000 in cash awards. Amateur sand sculptors will compete on Saturday. Sand castle clinics begin at 9am to help improve your technique. Music. Vendors. Texas Snowball Challenge. Discounts available for pre-registration. Sponsored by the Sheraton Hotel Beach & Condos & SPI Convention & Visitors Bureau. Cost: Free. Location: Sheraton Beach Hotel & Condos. Region: Texas Gulf Coast. Average attendance: under 250,000. For more information, call 956-761-3000 #108 or visit www.sandcastledays.com. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually.

October 19-22, 2006 - FESTIVAL - Tyler: 73rd Annual Texas Rose Festival. From roses to royalty, the 72nd annual Texas Rose Festival will celebrate tradition and community spirit as we explore "Treasures". The Coronation promises to be a grand showcase of spectacular costumes and staging that will surely provide an enchanted evening for all. The Rose Show, Queen's Tea and Rose Parade will showcase the elegance and fragrance of our national flower, the Rose. Entertainment galore awaits the entire family. Time: varies. Cost: Varies (free - $45). Location: Events are held throughout the City of Tyler. The Festival offices are located at the Tyler Rose Museum, 420 Rose Park Drive, Tyler, Texas 75702 (adjacent to the Tyler Municipal Rose Garden. Highway 31 West). Region: Texas Piney Woods. Average attendance: under 250,000. For more information, call 903-597-3130. Please mention this listing when inquiring. Held annually, 3rd weekend in October.

October 20-21, 2005 - FESTIVAL - Frisco: Frisco Storytelling Festival. Become part of the story at the Frisco Storytelling Festival. The festival features six of the nation’s fi