10 Things To Do Around East Texas This Weekend – April 25

(East Texas) For weeks now, East Texans have had some major festivals and events to attend. From checking out spring flowers to celebrating the discovery of East Texas oil to a major bank robbery re-enactment, East Texans have been entertained for sure.

There is a lull in the heavy-hitting festivals, and that's ok. East Texans can rejuvenate and get ready to party at one of, if not the best, festivals of the spring, Red Dirt BBQ & Music Festival.

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This event is just two weeks away, and organizers are looking for it to be one of the best in years. The Red Dirt BBQ & Music Festival will feature more than 15 of the best BBQ pitmasters from the Lone Star State smoking their meats for festival attendees. Then there will be live music on the entertainment stage from some of the hottest Red Dirt acts. Plus, a lot of your friends will be there having a phenomenal time with a plate of BBQ in one hand and a drink in the other on Saturday, May 9th.

Get your tickets now for the Red Dirt BBQ & Music Festival. Prices for this event will increase on May 4.

While there is no huge festival or event happening in East Texas, there are still plenty of things to do around the Piney Woods of East Texas.

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.

Henderson County First Responders PRCA Rodeo

Friday and Saturday
Henderson County Regional Fairpark - Athens

You can be entertained by all of your favorite rodeo events, including calf and lamb scrambles both nights, and mutton bustin' too. This is a ticketed event that is a benefit for Henderson County first responders.

Kilgore College Fueling Fitness 5k, Fun Run & Dino Dash

Saturday @ 7:15a
940 Ross Dr - Kilgore

Lace up your running shoes and join us for the Kilgore College Fueling Fitness 5K, 1-Mile Fun Run, & Dino Dash - a dynamic event bringing together fitness enthusiasts and community supporters alike! Proceeds from this exciting race directly benefit the East Texas Oil Museum, preserving and celebrating the rich history of the Texas oil boom. Whether you're aiming for a personal best or enjoying a leisurely walk, there's a distance for everyone. This is a ticketed event.

Veteran's Benefit Car Show

Saturday @ 8a
3900 University Blvd - Tyler

Kappa Sigma Fraternity and Hazelwood Hotrods are teaming up to Bring You a veterans benefit fundraiser car show!
Benefiting the Military Heroes Campaign!

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Longview Coin Show

Friday and Saturday
300 Tuttle Cr - Longview

Get your collectible coins and currency, gold and silver bullion, and other valuables appraised for free. There will be educational exhibits and door prizes given away, too. This event is free to attend.

Spring Jeep Jam & Spring Market

Saturday 9a-5p
11684 Barber Rd - Winona

Lots of Jeeps will converge upon Stillwater RV Resort for the spring market that will feature more than 200 local vendors.

Hike & Yoga Class

Saturday @ 10a
1860 CR 2724 - Mineola

Enjoy a hiking a few miles and a free 30-minute yoga class. It is open to the community and any skill level.

Tyler Quilt Show

Friday and Saturday
2000 W Front St - Tyler

The Quilters Guild of East Texas is thrilled to host the 2026 Tyler Quilt Show: Stitched in the Stars: Celebrating 250 Years of American Quilting & Creativity. This is a ticketed event.

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.

Battle of the Badges

Saturday @ 10:30a
410 W Cumberland Rd - Tyler

We’re headed to Faulkner Park to watch our first responders compete in their seventh annual “Battle of the Badges” softball tournament, benefiting the Children’s Advocacy Center of Smith County. Join us for a family-friendly day at the ballpark. This is a ticketed event.

Downtown Longview Wine Swirl

Saturday 4p-8p
219 E Methvin St - Longview

The Downtown Longview Wine Swirl is for wine connoisseurs, self-proclaimed wine connoisseurs, and wanna-be wine connoisseurs - basically, anyone who enjoys wine - and for those who love to support a good cause too. Enjoy the local flavors from Texas Wineries in the chill atmosphere of the Downtown Longview Wine Swirl. Plus, listen to live music from the Jazz Connection and shop from local artists and vendors. Your general admission ticket gives you access to the event area, a wine swirl tote bag (while supplies last), and the opportunity to purchase individual samples, glasses, or bottles from a variety of wineries. Proceeds from this event will go to Main Street Downtown Longview and fund major projects within the downtown area.