Hold On to Your Hats – The Washington County Fair is Back!
Get ready, y’all! The WashingtonCounty Fair is back this September 11-19, bringing a full week of fun, food, music, and Texas tradition right here in Brenham. As the oldest county fair in Texas, this annual celebration is packed with events and entertainment the whole family will love.
Washington County Fair, Brenham
A Week Full of Fun
The Washington County Fair offers an entire week of exciting things to do in Brenh: a rodeo, carnival, live music & concerts, a variety of livestock shows, arts & crafts, special attractions, contests, commercial exhibits and more.
The festivities kick off on Saturday, September 12, with a trail ride followed by a parade in Downtown Brenham.
Tuesday, September 15, 2026 is the opening evening of the carnival. There are rides for toddlers up to the most adventurous riders.
Washington County Fair, Brenham
Head to the rodeo arena for mutton bustin’, wild steer saddling, bull riding, and other rodeo events throughout the week. The CPRA Rodeo begins at 7:30 pm, Thursday through Saturday. Click here for a complete list of rodeo events.
Washington County Fair, Brenham
Browse the antique tractor exhibit, along with the youth livestock barns to complete the county fair experience! There are also arts & crafts exhibits, as well as a country store to purchase from your favorite exhibitors.
Washington County Fair, Brenham
Live Music Every Night
Nothing says “fair week” like dancing under the Texas stars! Enjoy live performances all week long at the pavilion:
Saturday, September 12 at 8 PM – Black Cat Choir
Wednesday, September 16 at 8 PM –Los Morales & 10 PM Los Palaminos
Thursday, September 17 at 8 PM – Triston Marez & 10 PM Midland
Friday, September 18 at 8:00 PM – Rick Trevino & 10:00 PM Wade Bowen
Saturday, September 19 at 7:45 PM – Jackson Windell & 9:00 PM Bottomland & 10:30 PM – Mark Chestnut
Washington County Fair, Brenham
Tickets & Passes
Get your advanced season passes online or from a Fair Queen Candidate before they sell out! Purchase tickets here.
Don’t Miss It!
From rodeo thrills and carnival rides to live music and local traditions, the Washington County Fair truly has something for everyone. Mark your calendars and make plans to join us in Brenham for a week you won’t forget!
The days are getting shorter and the promise of lower temperatures means that it’s time for fall! The Fall happenings in Brenham and around Washington County make it a favorite time of year to visit. If you are looking for things to do in Brenham and Washington County this fall, here is your list!
Mark your calendar and reserve your rooms for these 15 fabulous fall happenings around Brenham in 2025:
September 12 Chappell Hill transforms into a colorful outdoor gallery of vintage, historic, and barn quilts. Enjoy this beloved tradition along with small-town charm. Free admission.
September 11-19 It’s time for the Oldest County Fair in Texas! Enjoy the kick-off parade, rodeos, contests, live music, carnival, crafts, food, livestock, commercial exhibits, demonstrations, and more bxc. This week-long event is a family favorite durning the days and evenings, then
October 3 Whether you’re newly engaged, in the middle of planning, or just looking for wedding inspiration, this event is the perfect place to connect with talented local wedding professionals all in one place. Enjoy giveaways, door prizes, samples, wedding inspiration, and local vendors.
FREE admission | Open to the public | at The Barnhill Center in Downtown Brenham.
October 3 The shadows stir once more as the unrivaled master of the macabre, Edgar Allan Poe, returns for an unforgettable evening of mystery, suspense, and dramatic storytelling. Acclaimed historical interpreter Campbell Harmon brings Edgar Allan Poe vividly to life, blending the celebrated author’s fascinating biography with dramatic reenactments of his most enduring works. Tickets required. Hosted by the Brenham Heritage Museum.
Oct 3 Grab your best mates–it’s time for Pirate Fest at HSF Biergarten in Downtown Brenham! The festivities will be noon til Midnight with a Pirate Market, a treasure Scavenger Hunt, two amazing bands, food vendors, a fire dancer performance and more!
6. Scarecrow Music Festival in Chappell Hill
Scarecrow Festival, Downtown Chappell Hill
OCT 10-11 Visit one of the most charming communities in Texas for the Scarecrow Music Festival. This festival in Chappell Hill is getting a reboot this year, and in addition to the shopping vendors you love, there will now be a two-day live music lineup you don’t want to miss, including Roger Creager and Bri Bagwell. There will be FREE access to the vendor areas on Main Street and in the Wine Garden. Tickets are required for access to the main stage and VIP room. boasts more than 250 exhibitors (home décor, gardening, artists, craftsmen, jewelry, clothing, etc.), delicious country-style food, live music, and tours of the National Register Chappell Hill community. A special Children’s Activity Corner provides pony rides, a petting zoo, face painting, barrel train, and more.
7. Antique Shows
La Bahia, Burton
OCT 17- NOV 1 Round Top is just down the road, and there are several fabulous fall antique shows and year-round venues in Washington County. La Bahia Antique Show (Oct. 10-18) between Burton and Round Top is celebrating over 30 years of incredible treasures. Antiques at the Pavilions will offer a variety of dealers at the pavilions of the Texas Cotton Gin Museum, Oct. 23 – Nov. 1. Look for all the antique dealers in Burton, as well as the world-renowned Leftovers Antiques, open year-round between Brenham and Burton on HWY 290 W.
OCT 16-18 The Texas Arts & Music Festival is the source of Downtown Brenham’s beautiful murals! This free, family-friendly event takes place in Downtown Brenham October 16-18, and includes live music, live mural installation, a juried art show, an art village, pop-up galleries, and much more. Music headliners for Saturday night include The Guzzlers and Henry Invisible. For more info, check out our post here.
OCT 22-25 Welcome to Almost, Maine, a place that’s so far north, it’s almost not in the United States. It’s almost in Canada. And it’s not quite a town, because its residents never got around to getting organized. So it almost doesn’t exist. One cold, clear, winter night, as the northern lights hover in the star-filled sky above, the residents of Almost, Maine, find themselves falling in and out of love in unexpected and hilarious ways. Knees are bruised. Hearts are broken. But the bruises heal, and the hearts mend – almost – in this delightful midwinter night’s dream. Ticketed event at Bobbie M. Dietrich Memorial Amphitheatre, Hohlt Park, Brenham, Texas.
10. Wine & Wander in Burton
OCT 30 Stroll through participating businesses while shopping, enjoying signature drinks, and savor Burton after hours. Start at the Texas Cotton Gin Museum and get an event map. The theme this time is GREASE so grab your 1950s attire and have fun! Hosted by Destination Burton.
11. Trick-Or-Treat Events
Downtown Brenham
OCT 31 Join us for spooktacular free family-friendly events in Historic Downtown Brenham, Saturday, Oct. 31, 2:00-5:00; in Burton, October 24; in Chappell Hill, TBA. Grab the kids and costumes and head to Washington County for Trick-or-Treating in your favorite communities.
12. Fall Festival of Roses at Antique Rose Emporium
Antique Rose Emporium, Independence
NOV 6 – 8 The experts at Antique Rose Emporiumhost the Fall Festival of Roses during the first weekend of November. Explore the inspiring display gardens and attend seminars to grow your gardening knowledge. In addition to the seminars and endless fall garden inspiration, enjoy food trucks and shopping in the heart of Independence, Texas.
13. Christmas Magic at Hermann Furniture & The Giddings Stone Mansion
Christmas Magic, Brenham
NOV 6-8 The oldest furniture store in Texas will be decked wall to wall with all the seasonal decor. There will be door prizes, pop-up shops, wine and hors d’oeuvres. Designers will be on hand to help with floral or any interior decor needs. Entry is free. The festivities this year will include a luncheon at the Giddings Stone Mansion on Saturday, November 7, from 11:30 – 12:30. Tickets are required for the luncheon and sell out quickly, so call early for a reservation: 979-836-7237.
14. Ladies Night Out in Downtown Brenham
NOV 12 Enjoy extended hours for shopping, sipping and prizes in Downtown Brenham!
15. Gamblers, Horse Racers & Sports of All Classes: Horse Racing in Washington
NOV 14 Join Barrington Living History Farm for an exciting 19th century horse racing exhibition! This year’s event will feature 5 races on the track at 10:30am, 11:30am, 1:00pm, 2:00pm, and 3:00pm. You’ll enjoy the atmosphere of race day, with period games like faro, refreshments, stick horse races for kids, and wagon rides by Iron Horse Guest Ranch.
In addition to these fall happenings around Brenham, we have many daily events that include visiting Blue Bell Creamery, live music, theatre, and retail specials. See our full calendar of events here. Fall is prime time to visit the area, so make reservations with your favorite lodging partner soon!
Brenham knows how to do summer right—and there’s no better way to start your Saturday nights in July than with live music, local talent, and free ice cream. That’s right—before the big shows of Hot Nights, Cool Tunes, the music begins with Summer Showcase!
Alamo Alley, Downtown Brenham
Summer Showcase is a special concert series that shines a spotlight on local musicians as part of Brenham’s official Texas Music Friendly Community designation. On July 11, 18 & 25, a new artist will take the stage in Alamo Alley (next to 115 W. Main St.) from 5:00–6:30 PM, warming up the crowd before the main concert kicks off in Downtown Brenham!
Did Someone Say Free Ice Cream?
Alamo Alley, Downtown Brenham
Yes, please! We’ll be serving up free Blue Bell ice cream at every Summer Showcase performance—while supplies last. It’s our sweet way of helping you beat the heat and celebrate Brenham’s new title as the Ice Cream Capital of Texas! Grab a scoop, find a seat, and enjoy some music under the Texas sky.
Alamo Alley, next to 115 W. Main St., Brenham, TX
(Just steps away from the Brenham & Washington County Visitor Center!)
Why We Do It
Brenham is proud to be a Music Friendly Community, and the Summer Showcase is just one of the ways we support and celebrate our local musicians. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering a new favorite, this series is a great way to connect with the creative energy of our community!
Mark your calendars, grab your friends, and we’ll see you in Alamo Alley this July!
Want more summer fun? Check out Hot Nights, Cool Tunes for the full concert lineup and event details.
Summer Showcase is hosted by Visit Brenham, with ice cream generously donated by Blue Bell Creameries.
Hot Nights, Cool Tunes is one of the highlights of the summer in Brenham & Washington County! And it is not just a one-time event. Bring your lawn chair and your friends, and join the fun each Saturday evening in July (excluding July 4) for live music in historic Downtown Brenham. Admission and parking are free. Food and drinks are available for purchase at local downtown businesses. The west end of Commerce Street features a classic car show by Stray Katz Car Club, which is always a family favorite.
Downtown BrenhamDowntown Brenham
The music begins with the Summer Showcase! Local talent will be performing on stage in Alamo Alley (next to 115 W. Main St, Brenham) every Saturday of Hot Nights Cool Tunes from 5:00-6:30pm. This year, free Blue Bell ice cream will be given out during every performance until it is gone!
July 11 - Mason Marek
July 18 - Anthony Moreno
July 25 - Trey Lemley
The headliner bands start playing at 7:00 pm and ends around 9:00 pm. Come early for shopping, food, car show, and the local music!
Alamo Alley, Downtown Brenham
*Please note that due to the courthouse renovations, the party has been moved to the Commerce Street parking lot, just one block from the square.
July 11, 2026 – 90 Proof Country
DFW’s ‘90s country powerhouse takes the stage with twangy anthems and line-dancing favorites, delivering the era’s biggest hits with authentic flair.
This Houston-based variety band will keep everyone popping with their unforgettable dance party! Their electrifying mix of rock, disco, and Top 40 hits will have the dance floor packed and the "party vibes" flowing!
From the soulful grooves of funk and Latin heat to country anthems, they deliver a jaw-dropping, spine-tingling performance that keeps everyone singing, romancing, and sprinting to the dance floor. It’s more than just a setlist; it’s an energetic journey through the best of the 50s to now!
A very colorful scene unfolds the first weekend in May with Maifest, a celebration highlighting Brenham’s German heritage. Brenham Maifest includes a parade and Junior & Senior Coronations and features authentic German food, music and drink, and carnival rides at historic Fireman’s Park. This year's festivities are May 7-9, 2026.
Maifest is the oldest festival in Texas. Except for several years during World Wars I and II, this event has been held annually since 1881.
Thursday, May 7, 2026
5:00pm Carnival Opens
Friday, May 8, 2026
5:00pm Festival Opens │ Carnival Opens
7:00pm - 10:00pm Music by The Czechaholics
7:00pm Senior Coronation
10:00pm - 11:30pm Music by The Brown Sugar Band
12:00am Festival Closes
Saturday, May 9, 2026
10:30am Parade through Downtown Brenham
11:00am Festival Opens │ Carnival Opens
11:00am - 2:00pm Music by Das Ist Lustig
2:00pm Bierverkostung - Beer Tasting
2:00pm - 5:00pm Music by Alli & The Polka Dots
3:00pm Cornhole Tournament
5:00pm - 8:00pm Music by Isaak Klaus and The Lederhosen Junkies
6:30pm Junior Coronation
9:00pm - 12:00am Music by 90 Proof
12:00am Festival Closes
Look for displays of coronation attire at Downtown Brenham businesses in the weeks leading up to Maifest!
Spring in Washington County is a magical time! It’s not too hot, not too cold, and the colorful show that the Texas wildflowers faithfully display each year is worthy of the hype. But bluebonnets aren’t all that’s happening around Brenham in the spring! Here are NINE annual events in Washington County that you can use to plan your next visit-plus a few of the most popular things you can do every week in the spring. Make it a long weekend and enjoy all the live music, dining and shopping that the area has to offer.
Celebrate 190 years of Texas Independence at the place Where Texas Became Texas! The Texas Independence Day celebration at Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historical Site on February 28, will be better than ever, following the massive renovation and expansion. Start with the opening ceremony and parade at 10:30am, followed by great performances at the Amphitheater and Barrington Living History Farm throughout the day.
ANTIQUE ROSE EMPORIUM SPRING CELEBRATION WEEKEND
The Antique Rose Emporium is a must-visit year-round, but spring is something truly special! The Spring Celebration Weekend from March 20-22, 2026, includes an artisan market, food trucks, gardening workshops, and more blooming roses than you can imagine.
Wine & Wander
Slip into your favorite white linen (or any all-white attire) for an evening of wine, wandering, and warm small-town charm in historic Burton on March 20, 2026.
Beginning at 6pm, stroll through participating businesses while enjoying signature drinks, curated stops, and New Orleans–inspired festivities woven throughout the evening. This laid-back yet lively event invites locals and visitors alike to slow down, sip, and savor Burton after hours during the antique shows.
TEXAS RANGER DAY
The 15th annual Texas Ranger Day at the historic Burton Railroad Depot is a fun-filled event for the whole family. On Saturday, March 21, from 12 to 4pm, enjoy Old West Ranger demonstrations, blacksmithing, chuckwagon cooking, kids’ activities, depot and cotton gin tours, and live music!
TEXAS HISTORIC HOMES TOURS IN INDEPENDENCE
Step back in time with a tour of the Texas Historic Homes in Independence. Adjacent to Old Baylor Park, these historic homes and schoolhouses offer a glimpse into Texas pioneer life—perfect for history lovers! Artisans will be demonstrating early Texas crafts and music, and docents will be in period dress. Tours will be available on Saturdays, March 21 and March 28.
The Chappell Hill Historical Society will once again be hosting the Official State of Texas Bluebonnet Festival, April 11-12, 2026, in downtown historic Chappell Hill, Texas. The Festival boasts more than 250 juried exhibitors (home décor, gardening, artists, craftsmen, jewelry, clothing, etc.), delicious food, live entertainment and music, and tours of the historic community.
Head to Burton Saturday, April 18, home of the oldest operating cotton gin in the United States, and celebrate the 37th Annual Burton Cotton Gin Festival! This is a FREE, family-friendly event featuring a day full of fun and history. The day begins with a parade through Burton, and continues at the grounds of the Texas Cotton Gin Museum with gin tours, live music, demonstrations, a tractor pull competition, and even a pie-eating contest. Shop and eat in the Arts & Crafts Vendor Area & Food Court.
Brenham’s German heritage takes center stage at Maifest on May 8-9. Enjoy a festive weekend featuring a parade, Junior & Senior Coronations, authentic German food, music, drinks, and carnival rides at Fireman’s Park. Festivities begin on Friday, May 8, at 5pm and continue until 11:30pm, then resume on Saturday, May 9, from 10:30am to 11:30pm.
CHAPPELL HILL ART WALK
Stroll through historic Chappell Hill while artists create new masterpieces around favorite locations in this charming Texas town. Enjoy live music, shopping & dining while you stroll. Vote for your favorite art and shop the collections of these talented local artists. Saturday, May 23, 10am – 4pm.
Weekly Happenings
Some of our favorite spring events happen every week!
Blue Bell Ice Cream – Enjoy $1 scoops at the Blue Bell Parlor & Country Store!
There’s always something happening in Brenham! Explore daily events, such as live music and theater performances by checking our full calendar of events. Spring is the busiest season around Washington County, so be sure to book lodging early and make the most of your trip.
Looking for fun plans during Spring Break Week? Check back soon for our Guide to Spring Break Week in Brenham.
Start the year in Downtown Brenham at the Uptown Swirl! Bring your friends and stroll through the charming historic downtown district to sample delicious wines at the shops and businesses.
The fun happens on Saturday, January 17, 2026, from 3 to 7 pm in Downtown Brenham.
Check-in to receive your glass and bags begins at 2pm in front of the Washington County Courthouse Gazebo (101 E Alamo Street, Brenham, TX 77833).
Tickets are $35 in participating stores until December 31st. After January 1st, they are $40 in stores and $45 online.
Just sip, stroll, & shop!
* Tickets can be purchased at participating businesses! Participating Merchants:
It’s that time of year again! The world famous Round Top Antiques Festival is just around the corner, and while thousands of shoppers head toward Fayette County, Brenham and Washington County are only about 15 miles away and brimming with antique shops that deserve a spot on your treasure hunting itinerary. Whether you’re searching for farmhouse finds, vintage furniture, or one of a kind collectibles, our local shops are ready to welcome you with small town charm and big discoveries year-round. Here’s your guide map to vintage gold!
Junk in Yer Trunk A creative collective in the old Burton Lumber Barn with antiques and handmade goods.
TxJunkR Rustic farmhouse style with vintage and antique treasures.
Chappell Hill
The Brazos Star Housed in an 1800s dance hall, offering antiques, crafts, and handmade items.
Seasonal Antiques in Washington County
While many of our shops welcome you year round, a few local favorites only open their doors during antiques season (or in conjunction with special events). If your treasure hunting plans line up with these dates, be sure to time your visit accordingly!
Fall-O-Ween in Burton This is a full weekend of fall fun and treasure hunting. Search for bargains via a city wide garage sale “Treasure Trail!”
The tenth annual Texas Arts & Music Festival in historic Downtown Brenham is just around the corner! Join us October 17-19, 2025, for a family-friendly weekend of art, music, street food, and activities in the streets of Downtown Brenham.
Texas Arts & Music Festival, Downtown Brenham
Each year the Texas Arts & Music Festivalbrings live music and world-renowned mural artists for live art installations for the public to enjoy. This year, the festival will host a juried art show and art auction alongside the expected slate of activities. The show is eligible for any artist to enter and will be open during festival operating hours on Saturday and Sunday, with an added invite-only opening Friday evening.
Texas Arts & Music Festival, Downtown Brenham
Texas Arts and Music Festival will feature live music throughout the day on Saturday, October 19 with Brenham Children’s Chorus starting things off from 2 to 3:30 p.m.
Willow Creek Junction will follow from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Based out of Magnolia, the band offers a balanced repertoire of original compositions and cover renditions embodying the essence of Texas Country.
Next, Shekere will play from 6 to 7:30 p.m. This group brings the infectious rhythms of Latin music straight from Texas to the stage! With vibrant percussion, irresistible grooves, and soulful melodies, they create a high-energy, dance-worthy experience that celebrates the spirit of Latin culture. If you’re ready to move, Shekere will take you there.
This year’s headliner will be Shinyribs, playing from 8 to 9:30 p.m. This group defies genres as a sonic melting pot of Texas Blues, New Orlesans R&B funk, horn-driven Memphis Soul, country twang, border music, big band swing, and roots- rock. This nine-piece (sometimes 10-piece) supergroup was named ‘Best Austin Band’ at the Austin Chronicle’s Austin Music Awards in 2017 and 2018.
The concert, along with the festival, are family-friendly and FREE to the public. Bring your lawn chair and enjoy live music and delicious food and refreshments from local restaurants and food trucks.
Texas Arts & Music Festival, Downtown BrenhamTexas Arts & Music Festival, Downtown BrenhamTexas Arts & Music Festival, Downtown Brenham
The Children’s Business Fair is on Saturday from 10am – 1pm. The Art Village will be open on Saturday, 10am-8pm and Sunday, 10am-5pm. Artists and Craftsmen from across Texas will be set up offering their unique handmade creations to the public.
Texas Arts & Music Festival, Downtown BrenhamTexas Arts & Music Festival, Downtown BrenhamTexas Arts & Music Festival, Downtown BrenhamTexas Arts & Music Festival, Downtown BrenhamTexas Arts & Music Festival, Downtown BrenhamTexas Arts & Music Festival, Downtown BrenhamTexas Arts & Music Festival, Downtown BrenhamTexas Arts & Music Festival, Downtown BrenhamTexas Arts & Music Festival, Downtown BrenhamTexas Arts & Music Festival, Downtown BrenhamTexas Arts & Music Festival, Downtown Brenham
The Texas Arts & Music Festival is the perfect weekend to enjoy all that historic Downtown Brenham has to offer! Check out our lodging partners, and plan your weekend now.
July is National Ice Cream Month, and there’s no better place to celebrate than the Ice Cream Capital of Texas—Brenham! Whether you’re a scoop purist, a float fan, or just in it for the festive fun, we’ve got something sweet lined up all month long. Here’s how you and your crew can cool off and enjoy the month in Brenham:
Sundae Stroll
All of July | Downtown Brenham
Take a stroll through Downtown Brenham and check out the decorated ice cream cones displayed at participating businesses. Cast your vote for your favorite by picking up a voting pamphlet at the Brenham & Washington County Visitor Center. It’s a fun way to explore the shops, snap some cute photos, and support local businesses!
Saturdays in July | 5 PM – 6:30 PM | Downtown Brenham
Come out early before Hot Nights, Cool Tunes and enjoy free Blue Bell ice cream floats in Alamo Alley. It’s the perfect pre-show treat to beat the heat and kick off your Saturday night downtown.
We’re celebrating National Ice Cream Day a little early this year with hand-dipped Blue Bell ice cream served during the concert! Bring your lawn chairs, grab a scoop, and enjoy a night of live music and small-town charm.
National Ice Cream Day at Blue Bell Creameries
July 20 | 12 PM – 3 PM | Blue Bell Creameries
Blue Bell Creameries, Brenham
July 20 | 12 PM – 3 PM | Blue Bell Creameries
Stop by the Blue Bell Parlor to celebrate the big day with free ice cream! The Blue Bell Country Store will also be open—stock up on Blue Bell gear, gifts, and sweet souvenirs. There’s no better place to enjoy the holiday than right here in Brenham, home to one of the most beloved ice cream brands in the country.
Sweet Specials all july
Downtown Brenham is celebrating National Ice Cream Month with ice cream-themed specials all month long! From refreshing treats to creative desserts, local businesses are serving up limited-time offers you won’t want to miss.
Buy a slice of pie and get a free scoop of ice cream (à la mode!) – the ultimate classic summer combo!
Yumm! Sweets & Eats Featuring over-the-top Dubai Milkshakes – only available for a limited time!
Whether you hit every event or just stop by for a scoop, there’s no wrong way to enjoy National Ice Cream Month in Brenham. So grab your spoon, and treat yourself to a taste of why we’re proud to be the Ice Cream Capital of Texas!
Summer is almost here, and there’s no better way to enjoy the season than by sipping, shopping, and strolling through the charming streets of Downtown Brenham! Whether you’re planning a relaxing afternoon with friends or seeking a fun-filled day of local flavors and arts, the Summer Sip event is the perfect way to spend your day.
Puppy Dawgs and Cat Tails, Downtown Brenham
What’s Summer Sip All About?
Grab your friends, and get ready to enjoy an afternoon filled with specialty cocktails, art, and boutique shopping in Downtown Brenham’s Historic District. This fun event allows you to sip on a variety of unique drinks from local spots while exploring the best of what our charming town has to offer.
Tres Chic Boutique, Downtown Brenham
How Does it Work?
To get started, you’ll need a Summer Sip glass, which serves as your ticket to sampling dozens of refreshing beverages at participating locations. These collectible glasses are available for just $25 if purchased in-person from participating downtown businesses or $30 online. But don’t wait too long! There’s a limited number of glasses, and prices will increase to $35 on the day of the event. So, be sure to grab yours early!
Summer Sip, Downtown Brenham
What Can You Expect?
Specialty Cocktails: Sample a variety of unique, locally-crafted drinks at participating merchants in Downtown Brenham. Each stop along your journey offers something special, from creative concoctions to classic favorites with a local twist!
Shopping and Strolling: As you sip, take your time to wander through the many boutiques and shops that Downtown Brenham is known for. Whether you’re looking for the latest fashion trends, unique gifts, or local art, you’re sure to find something you love!
Local Art and Culture: Downtown Brenham is home to a variety of beautiful art galleries and public displays. Along the way, take a moment to admire the local talent and discover new pieces to inspire you!
Event Details:
Date: June 7th, 2025 from 3 pm to 7 pm
Check-in: 2 pm at the Court House Gazebo (Be sure to bring your event ticket or online receipt to pick up your glass!)
Ticket Pickup: Once you check in, you’ll receive a map to guide you through your tasting journey around Downtown Brenham.
Don’t Miss Out!
This event is the perfect way to spend a summer afternoon in the heart of Brenham. With limited glass availability and rising prices as the event day approaches, don’t wait to secure your spot. Grab your glass today and get ready to sip, shop, and stroll your way through a fun-filled afternoon in Downtown Brenham!
Looking for the perfect spring weekend getaway? Mark your calendar for April 12–13, 2025, and head to Chappell Hill for the 61st Annual Bluebonnet Festival—officially designated the “Bluebonnet Festival of Texas” by the state legislature!
Downtown Chappell HillDowntown Chappell Hill
Hosted by the Chappell Hill Historical Society, this iconic event features 250+ vendors, live music, and plenty of family-friendly fun. From handcrafted goods and local eats to a charming Children’s Area and dancing in the streets, it’s a celebration of Texas tradition and bluebonnet beauty.
Make the short drive to Chapelton Vineyards in Washington for an award-winning tasting experience surrounded by rolling vineyards and Texas countryside views.
Chapelton Vineyards, Washington
If you’re staying for the weekend, make time to visit Brenham, just 10 minutes up the road. Downtown Brenham offers a vibrant mix of local boutiques, art galleries, museums, and murals, plus fantastic dining—from cozy cafés to upscale eateries. It’s a great way to round out your bluebonnet weekend with even more small-town charm and Southern hospitality.
Did you know that the oldest operating cotton gin in the United States is located in Burton, Texas?
Texas Cotton Gin, Burton
Every year, this historical treasure is celebrated at the Burton Cotton Gin Festival. A day filled with FREE fun for the whole family kicks off with a parade followed by a classic car & tractor pulling contest, demonstrations, live music, shopping, family activities & contests, and all the food and refreshments you would expect from a small town of German heritage!
Experience the sights and sounds of the old cotton gin in action as festival goers witness the baling process. And don’t miss out on a tour of the Texas Cotton Gin Museum, where you can learn about the foundation of the gin and the story of how it was saved from becoming the site of a convenience store.
Downtown Burton
Saturday, April 26, 2025 | 10:00am – 6:00pm
Free Admission
10:00am Cotton Gin Festival Parade Begins
11:00am Antique Engine/Tractor Show
11:00am-12:00pm Lady B Birthday Party with Special Guests
For many surrounding schools, Spring Break runs from March 9-15, and it is the perfect time to explore Brenham and Washington County! Whether you’re visiting for a family-friendly getaway or looking for unique local experiences, Washington County offers something for everyone. Here’s a guide to help plan your Spring Break adventure:
1. Antique Carousel Ride & Local Parks
Antique Carousel, Fireman’s Park, Brenham
Take a spin on the historic Antique Carousel for just $1 in Fireman’s Park. This beautifully restored carousel is a local favorite and a must-do for families with young kids. Afterward, enjoy one of Brenham’s beautiful parks like Henderson Park or Hohlt Park, where you can have a picnic, let the kids enjoy the playground, or take a scenic walk along the trails.
Stroll through stunning gardens filled with fragrant heirloom roses. This picturesque spot is great for photos, relaxing walks, and plant shopping. Plus, admission is free!
Open Daily: Monday-Saturday 9am-5:30pm and Sunday 11am-5:30pm
No trip to Brenham is complete without a stop at Blue Bell Creameries! Grab a $1 scoop of your favorite flavor and check out the observation deck to see how the famous ice cream is made.
Spring Break Hours: Open 8 am – 5 pm Monday-Friday, with the Observation Deck closing at 2:00pm, but the Ice Cream Parlor, Visitor Center, and Country Store open until 5:00pm.
Relax and enjoy a cold craft beer while the kids play outside at Brazos Valley Brewing Company. With a laid-back atmosphere, outdoor seating, and food trucks, it’s a great place to unwind.
Open Wednesday-Sunday: Wednesday-Thursday 3pm-9pm, Friday-Saturday 12pm-10pm, and Sunday 12pm-7pm
Take in the beautiful scenery and breathe in the fresh lavender at this charming farm. While lavender may not be in full bloom just yet, the gift shop offers plenty of lavender-themed goodies, and you can visit and feed the friendly goats!
Special Spring Break Hours: March 9-15, 10 am – 2 pm
Visitor Center & Grounds open daily 8am – 5pm
Museum open 10am – 5pm
Town Site & Barrington Farm open 10am – 4:30pm
12. Burton Railroad Depot & Museum
Celebrate spring break week with a fun activity each morning at the Burton Railroad Depot & Museum starting at 10am. Kids can enjoy storytimes, art, music and snacks. The Burton Railroad Depot will be open during Spring Break for tours from 11am to 4pm.
Bonus: Will We See Bluebonnets?
Springtime in Texas means bluebonnet season! As the wildflowers begin their bloom, be sure to take a scenic drive along Highway 290 and visit our Wildflower Driving Map for breathtaking photo opportunities. Keep an eye out for updates on the best spots to see these iconic Texas wildflowers on our Wildflower Watch Page.
No matter what your Spring Break plans look like, Brenham and Washington County offer the perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and small-town charm. We can’t wait to welcome you!
Visit the 
