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10 Fall Happenings Around Brenham

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.

Mark your calendar and reserve your rooms for these TEN fabulous fall happenings around Brenham in 2025!

1 . Pirate Fest at Home Sweet Farm Biergarten

Outdoor concert at Home Sweet Farm Biergarten in Brenham, Texas, with a live band performing under string lights, a crowd of people seated at picnic tables, and a large mural of two women’s faces on the brick wall behind the stage. — HSF Biergarten, Downtown Brenham

Oct 4 It’s time for Pirate Fest at HSF Biergarten in Downtown Brenham. Pirate Fest 2025 is Saturday, October 4th, Noon til Midnight! They will have a Pirate Market, a treasure Scavenger Hunt, two amazing bands, food vendors, a fire dancer performance and more!

2 . Scarecrow Festival in Chappell Hill

Scenes from the Chappell Hill Scarecrow Festival in Washington County, Texas. The collage shows visitors shopping at downtown storefronts decorated with fall and Halloween displays, strolling along vendor-lined streets under Texas flags, and enjoying the festival atmosphere with food booths, crafts, and family-friendly activities. — Scarecrow Festival, Downtown Chappell Hill

OCT 10-12 Visit one of the most charming communities in Texas for the Scarecrow Festival. The festival 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.

3. Antique Shows

Scenes from La Bahia Antique Show near Burton, Texas. On the left, vendors set up booths under large white tents shaded by oak trees, displaying antiques and vintage goods. On the right, a white barn serves as part of the show venue, with shoppers browsing outside under the afternoon sunlight. — La Bahia, Burton

OCT 4-18 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. 11-19. 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.

4. Wine & Wander in Burton

OCT 17 Come shop with some great dealers and vendors, enjoy heavy appetizers, and sip local wines from Busted Oak Cellars. The theme this year is all about Dolly Parton, including a Dolly Parton cover band, so sport your favorite Dolly-inspired attire and join the fun. Stops on the trail include Burton Short Stop Icehouse, Bluebonnet Leather Shop, Junk in Yer Trunk, and more!

5. Texas Arts & Music Festival

Scenes from the Texas Arts & Music Festival in downtown Brenham, Texas. The collage shows artists painting a large mural on a building wall, festival-goers exploring vendor booths and food stands on downtown streets, and a live band performing on an outdoor stage at night in front of a mural backdrop. — Texas Arts & Music Festival, Downtown Brenham

OCT 17-19 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 17-19, and includes live music, live mural installation, an art village, pop-up galleries, and much more. Music headliner for Saturday night will be The Shiny Ribs. For more info, check out our post here.

6. Trick-Or-Treat Events

Families and children in costumes line up outside shops in downtown Brenham, Texas, during a trick-or-treat event. The storefronts are decorated for fall, and people carry candy bags while enjoying the festive atmosphere. — Downtown Brenham

OCT 25 Join us for spooktacular free family-friendly events in Historic Downtown Brenham, Saturday, Oct. 25, 2:00-5:00; in Burton, Saturday, Oct. 25, 5:30-7:30; in Chappell Hill, Sunday, Oct. 26, 1:00-3:00. Grab the kids and costumes and head to Washington County for Trick-or-Treating in your favorite communities. There will be plenty of family fun to sink your fangs into!

7. Fall Festival of Roses at Antique Rose Emporium

Scenes from the Antique Rose Emporium’s Fall Festival of Roses in Independence, Texas. The collage shows visitors walking through blooming gardens, an audience attending an indoor gardening seminar, and rows of rose plants on display in the outdoor nursery surrounded by landscaped grounds. — Antique Rose Emporium, Independence

OCT 31 – NOV 2 The experts at Antique Rose Emporium host 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.

8. Christmas Magic at Hermann Furniture & The Giddings Stone Mansion

Holiday scenes in Washington County, Texas. On the left, a shop owner stands behind a festive Christmas display filled with holiday décor, table settings, and greenery. On the right, a historic two-story mansion is decorated for Christmas with red bows, garlands, and wreaths along the balconies and columns. — Christmas Magic, Brenham

NOV 7-9 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. The festivities this year will include a luncheon at the Giddings Stone Mansion on Saturday, November 8, from 11:30 – 12:30. Tickets are $35 per person, and reservations are required. Tickets sell quickly, so call early for a reservation: 979-836-7237.

9. Grand Reopening of Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site

Promotional poster for the Washington-on-the-Brazos Grand Re-Opening Celebration on November 8. The design features historic imagery of early Texans, including men in period clothing with a cannon, horse, and wooden building, with logos for the Texas Historical Commission and Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site. — Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site, Washington

NOV 8 The Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site has undergone a $51 million renovation over the last two years. When re-opened on November 8, 2025, visitors will experience state-of-the-art exhibits at the Star of the Republic Museum and enhanced historical storytelling in the Visitor’s Center to introduce real people that lived and led the Republic of Texas. The Washington Townsite Experience will allow visitors to walk the streets of Washington, experiencing reproductions of pivotal landmarks in Texas history.

10 . Weekly Fall Happenings

Children ride brightly painted wooden horses on the antique carousel at Fireman’s Park in Brenham, Texas, while parents stand nearby. The indoor carousel is decorated with string lights and a red canopy overhead. — Antique Carousel, Brenham

WEEKLY EVENTS Some of our favorite fall happenings are so good, we have to share them every week! Antique carousel rides ($1 each), free entry to the Brenham Fire Museum (Saturdays in October & November), and the live demonstrations every weekend at Barrington Living History Farm, which is located within Washington-on-the-Brazos historical site are a few.

In addition to these fall happenings around Brenham, we have many daily events that include 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!

Where to Watch on Game Day

Where to Watch the Game in Brenham & Washington County

The season is always right to cheer on your favorite team, and Brenham & Washington County have plenty of places that make game day even better. Whether you’re looking for a brewery with a playground for the kids, a patio with a big screen, or a casual spot with great food, here are some of the best local hangouts to catch the action!

30 North Gastropub

From the delicious food to the full bar to the extensive choice of indoor and outdoor seating, 30 North is an easy choice on game day. Enjoy some of the best pizza in town and settle in for cocktails or beer at this Downtown Brenham establishment.

Brazos Valley Brewing Company

people sitting at a bar being served a flight. Brazos Valley Brewery — Brazos Valley Brewery, Brenham

BVB is a family-friendly, small-town brewery and taproom that has screens inside the taproom to watch a big game. There are also indoor games, an outdoor playground, and plenty of room to stretch your legs. You won’t go hungry with their food truck, BVB Eats, and you can often catch live music on the weekends.

Brown Water Cigar Bar

Enjoy a smoky Old Fashioned and your favorite cigar while you watch the game at Brown Water Cigar Bar. This Downtown Brenham venue is a favorite place for the guys to relax.

BT Longhorn Saloon & Steakhouse

Interior of BT Longhorn Steakhouse & Saloon in Downtown Brenham, featuring a classic wooden bar lined with bottles and taps, ornate mirrors, and vintage chandeliers. High-top tables with wooden chairs and red napkins fill the space, while a neon Bud Light Texas sign glows above the bar, adding to the rustic saloon atmosphere. — BT Longhorn Saloon & Steakhouse, Downtown Brenham

The antique bar at BT Longhorn is a piece of history and a favorite place to watch on game day. Sit at the bar or one of the high-tops and check out their delicious menu and full bar.

Burton Short Stop & Icehouse

A true small-town favorite, Burton Short Stop & Icehouse serves up great bites and a friendly environment. It’s a laid-back stop for both locals and visitors looking to catch the game.

Carol’s Ice House

Located in Downtown Chappell Hill, Carol’s Ice House is a laid-back spot perfect for catching the game with friends. With cold drinks, good company, and plenty of TVs, it’s a classic game day destination.

Floyd’s Lounge

It doesn’t get much better than the patio at Floyd’s Lounge. The party lights will be on and the heaters and fire pit are ready for those cooler nights. If it’s a really big game, Floyd’s is great to bring in a big blow-up screen to make viewing easy for bigger crowds.

Grapevine on Main

Many people sitting at tables talking to each other. In the back there is a bar with a server pouring drinks. — Grapevine on Main, Downtown Chappell Hill

Located in Downtown Chappell Hill, Grapevine on Main is a wine bar with a welcoming atmosphere and a great place to gather. Enjoy a glass of wine or a cold beer while watching your favorite team in comfort.

Home Sweet Farm Biergarten

HSF is the perfect place for a favorite wine or your favorite beer on tap. It’s also one of those places that feels like home when you’re cheering on your team with a room full of people who don’t seem like strangers anymore.

Pioneer Smokehouse

The cozy indoor space at Pioneer is just right for a smaller crowd. The patio offers games and room to play if part of the family would rather use some of that energy on playing games instead of watching the game. Don’t miss the hobo nachos to share for the perfect start to your game day meal.

The White Horse Tavern

This welcoming tavern in Burton is a go-to for locals who want to watch sports in a casual atmosphere. Pair your drink with a hearty meal and settle in for the big game.

No matter which team you’re rooting for, game day in Brenham & Washington County comes with good food, great drinks, and even better company. So grab your friends, find your favorite spot, and make your next watch party a local one.

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.

A Toast to Texas Family Festival

Texas Independence Day celebrations will look a little different this year due to ongoing renovations at Washington-on-the-Brazos. Join us for A Toast to Texas Family Festival on Saturday, March 1, from 10am. to 4pm as we celebrate the signing of the Texas Declaration of Independence on March 2, 1836.

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 7-9, 2025 includes an Artisan & Vintage Market, food trucks, and more blooming roses than you can imagine.

TEXAS RANGER DAY

The 14th annual Texas Ranger Day at the historic Burton Railroad Depot is a fun-filled event for the whole family. On Saturday, March 15, from 12 to 5pm, 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! Tours are available on Saturdays, March 15 and 22, from 10am to 4pm.

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 21-29. Burton is also home to other antique events like Antiques at The Pavilions.

TEXAS BLUEBONNET FESTIVAL IN CHAPPELL HILL

The Chappell Hill Historical Society will once again be hosting the Official State of Texas Bluebonnet Festival, April 12-13, 2025, in downtown historic Chappell Hill, Texas. Initially a small town antique festival has blossomed over the years and celebrates the official state flower, the bluebonnet. The Festival boasts more than 250 juried exhibitors (home décor, gardening, artists, craftsmen, jewelry, clothing, etc.), delicious country-style food, live entertainment and music, and tours of the historic community!

BURTON COTTON GIN FESTIVAL

Head to Burton Saturday, April 26, home of the 1914 Burton Farmers Gin, and celebrate the 36th 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. Shop and eat in the Arts & Crafts Vendor Area, & Food Court. Watch Folklife skills demonstrations, such as Blacksmithing and butter churning, and spoon carving!

BRENHAM MAIFEST

Brenham’s German heritage takes center stage at Maifest on May 2-3. 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 2, at 5pm and continue until 11:30pm, then resume on Saturday, May 3, from 11:30am to 11:30pm!

CHAPPELL HILL ART WALK

Meet and watch artists working and creating their masterpieces in Chappell Hill on Main Street, at the Historical Society Museum, and other select Washington County locations. Presented by Chappell Hill Chamber of Commerce, Chappell Hill, Texas. Vote for your favorite and you have the opportunity to purchase works from our artists too!

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 8-16), it is open daily from 11am to 3 p.m.

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 like live music, theater performances, and retail specials by checking our full calendar of events. Spring is our busiest season, so be sure to book your lodging early and make the most of your trip!

Looking for fun plans during Spring Break Week? Check out our Guide to Spring Break Week in Brenham!