Spring in Brenham Archives - Visit Brenham Texas

Spring Happenings Around Brenham

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.

Texas Independence Day Celebration

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.

Antique Festivals

The Round Top Antique shows are just down the road, and some are even in Washington County! The La Bahia Antique Show is March 20-28. Burton is also home to Antiques at The Pavilions, March 16-25.

TEXAS BLUEBONNET FESTIVAL IN CHAPPELL HILL

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.

BURTON COTTON GIN FESTIVAL

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 MAIFEST

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!

Antique Carousel Rides – Just $1 per ride at Fireman’s Park.

Brenham Fire Museum – Normally open Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 2pm. For Spring Break Week (March 9-13), it is open daily from 11am to 3pm.

Barrington Living History Farm Live Demos – Every weekend at Washington-on-the-Brazos.

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.

Wildflower Etiquette

The beauty of the wildflowers in Washington County is worth the trip! Here are some tips to keep visitors safe and minimize the impact of so many travelers on the colorful fields:

–Respect private property. There are plenty of public places to take pictures.
–Do not cross fences (see above). Take the photo from the road side of the fence.
–Follow existing trails. Stick to paths already created by previous visitors to minimize damage.
–Be mindful when sitting. If you’d like to take photos among the flowers, choose areas that have already been used as seating spots.
-Step carefully. If no clear path exists, try to walk between the bluebonnets rather than on them.
–Don’t pick the bluebonnets. We need them to go to seed for future wildflower seasons!
–Stay alert. Fire ants, snakes, and poison ivy often thrive in the same areas as bluebonnets.
–Be cautious on roadsides. Only pull over where it is safe and where there is an adequate shoulder.
–Keep it clean. Take your trash with you; if you find any, pay it forward by taking it with you when you leave.

By following these simple guidelines, we can all help protect Washington County’s wildflowers for generations to come. Thank you for visiting Brenham/Washington County—we’re excited to share our bluebonnets with you!

Old Baylor Park in Independence is a public place to take bluebonnet photos. Photo by Natalie Lacy Lange

Old Baylor Park in Independence is a public place to enjoy the wildflowers. Photo by Natalie Lacy Lange

Plan your spring trip!

Annual spring events happening in Washington County

Full calendar of events

Lodging

Your Guide to Spring Break Week in Brenham

For many surrounding schools, Spring Break runs from March 10-14, 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, we’ve got something for everyone. Here’s our guide to the top must-visit spots for your Spring Break adventure:

1. Antique Carousel Ride & Local Parks

child riding antique carousel ride with other children riding it in the background. Adults standing in back. — 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.

2. Antique Rose Emporium

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!

March 8-9: Spring Celebration Weekend! Enjoy an artisan vendor market, hands-on gardening inspiration, and seasonal refreshments.

Open Daily: Monday-Saturday 9AM-5:30PM and Sunday 11AM-5:30PM

3. Aquatic Center

Looking for indoor water fun? Head over to the Blue Bell Aquatic Center, which features a heated indoor pool, a leisure pool, and fun water features.

Spring Break Bonus: Giant inflatables will be set up in the indoor pool for extra fun!

4. Blue Bell Creameries

young boy eating ice cream and smiling at Blue Bell Creameries — Blue Bell Creameries, Brenham

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 PM but the Ice Cream Parlor, Visitor Center, and Country Store open until 5 PM!

5. Brazos Valley Brewing Company

groups of people sitting at picnic tables under shade structures, talking and enjoying live music outside of Brazos Valley Brewery — Brazos Valley Brewery, Brenham

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

6. Brenham Fire Museum

Dive into the history of firefighting with antique fire trucks, historic memorabilia, and interactive exhibits perfect for all ages. No cost to enter!

Special Spring Break Hours: March 8-16, 11 AM – 3 PM

7. Chappell Hill Lavender Farm

A couple walking through the Chappell Hill Lavender Fields. There are people in the distance taking pictures and cutting lavender. — Chappell Hill Lavender Farm, Chappell Hill

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 10-16, 10 AM – 2 PM

8. Downtown Brenham

Two women and three children all look at a display of the exhibit together. — Brenham Heritage Museum, Downtown Brenham

Explore colorful murals, shop at unique boutiques like The Book Nook, Jet Set Chocolates, and The Barnhill House Toys & Books, and discover historical sites like Toubin Park, the Freedom Colonies Exhibit in Belle’s Alley, and the Brenham Heritage Museum. Make a day of it by grabbing a bite at a local restaurant or stopping for a treat at a bakery!

9. Silver Wings Ballroom

Lace up your skates and hit the rink at Silver Wings Ballroom! This classic roller-skating venue is a nostalgic and fun outing for all ages.

10. Texas Cotton Gin Museum

People are lined up to enter the Burton Cotton Gin Museum — Texas Cotton Gin, Burton

Home of the 1914 Burton Farmer’s Gin, learn about Texas’ rich cotton history and see the oldest operating cotton gin in America!

Open Tuesday-Saturday, 10 AM – 4 PM. Tours on the Cotton Gin run daily at 10 AM & 2 PM!

11. Washington-on-the-Brazos

A young boy playing a game with a women. They are both dressed in old timey clothing. — Washington-on-the-Brazos, Washington

Step back in time where Texas became Texas! Explore the Washington-on-the-Brazos for a hands-on history lesson.

Special Spring Break Hours:

Barrington Living History Farm & Independence Hall will be open Monday & Tuesday with guided tours at 10 AM, 1 PM, and 3 PM.

Living History Interpreters will be on-site in period clothing, re-creating life in the 1840s at the real home of Dr. Anson Jones, the last president of the Republic of Texas.

Watch craftsmen building a replica of the Ark of the Covenant from original boards of Independence Hall!

Open daily, 8 AM – 5 PM

Special Spring Break Events

Check out these exciting events happening during Spring Break! Click on each for more details:

Spring Celebration at Antique Rose Emporium – March 8-9, 2025

Unity Theatre Presents: The Originalists – March 8-9, 2025

Kids Camp Workshop at Board & Brush Brenham – March 10-13, 2025

Texas Ranger Day at the Burton Railroad Depot – March 15, 2025

Riders in the Sky at The Barnhill Center – March 15, 2025

Historic Homes Tours in Independence – March 15 & 22, 2025

Bonus: Will We See Bluebonnets?

Springtime in Texas means bluebonnet season! If the flowers are in full 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!

For more Spring Break happenings, check out out Spring Break “What’s Happening” flyer!