The 48th Annual Granbury Harvest Moon Festival of the Arts returns October 24–25, 2026, bringing a weekend of art, music, shopping, and fall fun to the beautiful Historic Granbury Square in Granbury, Texas. Featuring more than 100 juried artists and artisans, the festival offers a diverse collection of original paintings, photography, sculptures, jewelry, ceramics, and unique handcrafted creations. Festival hours are Saturday, October 24, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday, October 25, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Guests can also enjoy delicious food, browse local vendors, and explore the Harvest Market at the Dora Lee Langdon Cultural and Educational Center. Best of all, admission is free! Live music will keep the energy going throughout the weekend, with Luke Wade and YOUNGTONES headlining the Harvest Moon Masquerade Street Dance on Saturday from 7 to 10 p.m. Music fans can also catch the Jarrett Isaacs Band at the Silver Saddle Saloon on Saturday evening from 8 to 11 p.m. Whether you're shopping for one-of-a-kind art, enjoying great food, dancing to live music, or simply soaking up the festive fall atmosphere, Granbury offers something for everyone. Gather your friends and family and make plans for a memorable weekend in this charming Texas town. See you in Granbury this weekend! @VisitGranbury

The Navasota Blues Festival takes over historic downtown Navasota, Texas, on Saturday, October 24, 2026, for a free, family-friendly celebration of blues music and community. The day’s festivities begin at 10 a.m. with a classic car show, children’s activities, food vendors, local shopping, and an opportunity to watch the Aggie football game on a big screen. The main festival takes place on the City Hall lawn at 200 E. McAlpine Street, Navasota, TX 77868, with live music scheduled from 4 to 9 p.m. Set against the charm of this historic Texas town, the festival promises a lively day of entertainment for music lovers and families alike. The musical lineup features an exciting mix of talent, including BCS Jazz Band, Scott Taylor, The Bad 455’s, and Hadden Sayers, bringing an array of sounds and styles to the downtown celebration. Visitors can also explore the Blues and Goods Market at 221 Railroad Street, featuring local artisans, vendors, and additional entertainment. With free admission, great live music, and activities for all ages, the Navasota Blues Festival is a perfect opportunity to experience the spirit of Texas blues and enjoy a memorable fall Saturday in the heart of Navasota. @CityofNavasota

Muertos Fest at Hemisfair returns to downtown San Antonio, Texas, October 24–25, 2026, for a vibrant, free celebration of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). Held at Hemisfair, 630 Nueva Street, the festival honors loved ones who have passed away through colorful community altars, cultural traditions, art, live music, dance, poetry, and delicious food. Saturday’s festivities run from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., while Sunday’s schedule runs from noon to 9 p.m. Visitors can explore more than 80 altars, shop the Muertos Mercado featuring local artists and artisans, enjoy family-friendly workshops, and experience two colorful processions. The Saturday procession begins at 7 p.m., followed by Sunday’s procession at 3 p.m. The weekend’s musical lineup features an exciting mix of Texas, Tejano, Latin, and alternative sounds. Saturday’s performers include Grupo Metal featuring Chris Pérez, Girl in a Coma, Vanita Leo, Los Skarnales, and Santiago Jiménez Jr. Sunday’s scheduled acts include El Dusty & The Homies, Max Baca y Los Texmaniacs, Mariachi Las Alteñas, Campanas de América, Luna Tropical, and Volcán, along with a tribute to Augie Meyers. Please note that Michael Salgado, originally announced for Sunday, has postponed his upcoming performances while recovering from a stroke. We all wish Michael a speedy recovery. Check the official festival website for lineup updates. With five music stages, traditional dance performances, vibrant artwork, and meaningful tributes to loved ones, Muertos Fest offers a memorable weekend celebrating San Antonio’s rich cultural heritage. @muertosfest

San Antonio’s Department of Arts & Culture has added 12 original songs by local musicians to its Local Music Spotlight program, showcasing a diverse mix of indie rock, Tejano, hip-hop, folk and more. The newest selections include 34K’s “Childish,” Dave and the Barrio Blasters’ “Funky Streets of San Antone,” Noah Peterson’s “Countdown City” and Remy Bones’ “Rise Up Rivercity.” The city initiative commissions original music from San Antonio artists, with selected musicians receiving a $250 honorarium and promotional opportunities through city platforms and a Spotify playlist. The program offers residents an easy way to discover homegrown talent beyond established regional stars and touring acts. A panel of music-industry professionals selects up to 24 songs annually, with some featured before City Council meetings. The 2026 lineup includes 24 selections representing a broad range of performers and genres, reflecting San Antonio’s musical identity beyond its deep Tejano roots. Residents can find the Local Music Spotlight playlist on Spotify or explore current and past selections through the city’s Department of Arts & Culture website. Listeners can support featured musicians by streaming their songs, following their work, sharing their music, attending live performances or purchasing merchandise. The program is also open to San Antonio-based musicians and songwriters age 18 and older who create original music and have the legal authority to license their work. Applications for the 2026 selection period closed in July, and the city has not announced the next application window. Artists interested in future opportunities can join the San Antonio Artist Registry and monitor city announcements. For now, residents can press play and discover their next favorite local artist. @getcreativesa

The Kerrville Folk Festival presents Quiet Valley Homecoming, October 23–25, 2026, at Quiet Valley Ranch, located at 3876 Medina Highway in Kerrville, Texas. This relaxed fall campout invites longtime festival fans, songwriters, and friends to return to the Hill Country for a weekend of community, connection, and the welcoming spirit that makes Kerrville special. Rather than a traditional music festival with a scheduled lineup, Homecoming encourages attendees to gather around campfires, share stories, join song circles, and enjoy informal, community-led activities. While no formal performing artist lineup has been announced, attendees are encouraged to create their own musical experiences through campground song circles, hoot nights, storytelling sessions, art demonstrations, and shared meals. The weekend will also feature the Quiet Valley Ranch Chili Cookoff, with separate meat and vegetarian chili categories, adding a flavorful touch to the festivities. Weekend passes are $35 when purchased online or $40 at the gate, covering admission through noon on Monday, October 26. Quiet Valley Homecoming offers a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with the Kerrville Folk Festival family, celebrate the joy of songwriting, and enjoy an authentic Texas Hill Country gathering. @KerrFolkFest

The 2027 Corpus Christi Songwriters Festival artist submissions announcement should highlight the opportunity for songwriters to share their original music, connect with fellow artists, and perform in the Coastal Bend’s vibrant music community. The festival celebrates the creativity, storytelling, and diverse musical voices that make songwriting such a powerful art form, welcoming artists who are ready to showcase their talent and bring their songs to a wider audience. Artist submissions are open October 11–24, 2026, with entries due by 11:59 p.m. CST on October 24. Songwriters must submit one original song and one live performance video, along with contact information and active music or social media links. A $25 submission fee applies, and selection is not guaranteed. The 2027 festival takes place February 12–14 in downtown Corpus Christi, featuring song swaps, showcases, workshops, and awards. Artists can review the requirements and apply through the [official 2027 festival submission page](<ccsongwriters.com/post/call-…>). @cc_songwriters

The Texas Music Office has opened applications for Spring 2027 internships (January - May 2027). Applications must be submitted by November 15. Information and applications can be found at gov.texas.gov/music/page/int…

TONIGHT IN LUCKENBACH!!!! Come out for a FREE - ALL AGES CELEBRATION as Fredericksburg is certified as the 100th Music Friendly Texas Community!!! There will be free two step lessons, and performances from Kathryn Legendre and Theo Lawrence. Put your boots on and get back to the basics of FUN with us at the Historic Luckenbach Dancehall. Festivities start at 6pm! See y'all tonight! @LuckenbachTexas @VisitFredTexas @TheoLawrence @legendre

It’s been a month since Texas took over Nashville, and we’re still basking in the afterglow! The Texas Takeover brought a new chapter of Texas’ musical presence to AMERICANAFEST on September 19, with an afternoon of live music at Nashville’s Skinny Dennis. Presented by Travel Texas and the Texas Music Office, the official Texas AMERICANAFEST showcase built on the longtime legacy of The Longhorn Shindig, previously presented by Kessler Presents, while introducing a new vision under the Texas Music Office’s curation and production. The free, public event welcomed fans and industry guests for a celebration of the artists, sounds, and creative spirit that continue to define Texas’ place in the Americana landscape. The showcase featured a diverse lineup spanning Texas and beyond, including Next of Kin, Jess Williamson, Jaimee Harris, Judy Blank, Lemongrass, Kathryn Legendre, Matthew McNeal, Marcel, and Our Man In The Field, alongside special performances from Gracen Wynn, Remy Reilly, and Courtney Santana, plus surprise guest Theo Lawrence. Presented in partnership with Prekindle, Visit Fort Worth, Visit Dallas, and The Longhorn Ballroom, The Texas Takeover provided a lively gathering point during AMERICANAFEST while spotlighting the breadth of talent emerging from and connected to the Lone Star State. Huge thanks to all the artists, sponsors, @zachschmidtmusic for stage managing, and everyone at @skinnydennis_nash : AMAZING STAFF, SOUND, AND ATMOSPHERE! We can't wait to show off more Texas talent in 2027! You can catch Theo Lawrence and Kathryn Legendre in Luckenbach, TOMORROW (Saturday October 17th) at the 100th Music Friendly Texas Community Celebration! Photos: @savannahlaurenphoto

The 14th Annual Eastside Kings Festival returns to Historic East Austin on October 17–18, 2026, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of African American blues, jazz, and gospel music. The festival takes place around East 12th Street and Chicon Street, with multiple venues showcasing live music throughout the weekend. More than 12 bands are scheduled each day, making it a major gathering for blues and roots-music fans. The 2026 festival features performances spread among several East Austin venues, along with local vendors and a classic car show. The festival’s lineup includes a wide range of Austin and regional blues, jazz, and gospel performers; however, the official 2026 schedule is published as images rather than searchable text, so I don’t want to risk giving you an inaccurate list of artist names. The festival’s mission is to preserve and promote the musical traditions and legacy of East Austin’s African American community. @eastsidekingsfest

The 2026 Dripping Springs Songwriters Festival, established in 2014, returns for its 12th annual celebration October 16–18 in historic downtown Dripping Springs, Texas, centered around Mercer Street and Old Fitzhugh Road. The three-day festival showcases more than 40 songwriters across seven stages, with 70 performances presented in intimate, Nashville-style “in the round” listening-room settings. All downtown showcases are free to attend. This year’s impressive lineup includes Brian Allison, Charlie Argo, Emily Barnes, Katrina Cain, Kelsi Creek, Ronny Criss, J. Cruz, Ben Danaher, George Ensle, Robert Europe, Lauren Frihauf, Ben Gage, Goldpine, Ajaye Jardine, Sara Jean Kelley, Madeleine Kelson, Aaron Konzelman, Rachel Laven, Ananda Murari, Will Overman, Grace Pettis, Natalie Price, Ray Prim, Eric Ramsey, Michelle Raybourn, Ben Reneer, Vaughan Segers, Sophie Seng, Charlie Shafter, Hannah Stokes, Tim Styles, Andy Sydow, Chris Taylor, David Tribble, Meagan Tubb, Reed Waddle, and Weary Ramblers, among others. With original songs, personal stories, and intimate performances throughout downtown Dripping Springs, the festival celebrates the craft of songwriting and the artists behind the music. @DSTXChamber

The 65th Annual Texas Jazz Festival returns to Corpus Christi October 16–18, bringing three days of live music and jazz celebration to the Coastal Bend. As one of Texas’ longest-running jazz festivals, the event brings together talented musicians and jazz fans for a weekend filled with performances, energy, and the unmistakable sounds of jazz. From seasoned jazz enthusiasts to newcomers discovering the genre, the festival offers something for everyone in a lively waterfront setting. With its long history, diverse musical lineup, and welcoming atmosphere, the Texas Jazz Festival is a great opportunity to experience the artistry and spirit of jazz while enjoying a memorable fall weekend in Corpus Christi. @txjazz_festival

The 19th Annual Austin String Band Festival returns October 16–18 at Camp Ben McCulloch in Driftwood, bringing together an exciting lineup of musicians and music lovers for a weekend celebrating string band, roots, folk, bluegrass, Cajun, and Americana music. This year’s festival features performances from Dom Flemons, The Horsenecks, Georgia Parker, Charles Thibodeaux and the Austin Cajun Aces, Righteous Intonation, Amanda Pascali, Atash, Lost Patterns, Webster’s Ragtime Trio, Powder Money, and the Austin City Quicksteppers. Set against the scenic backdrop of Camp Ben McCulloch, the three-day festival offers a chance to enjoy live music, discover new artists, and celebrate the rich traditions and vibrant spirit of roots music. Whether you’re a longtime fan of string band music or simply looking for a fun weekend filled with great performances and community, the 19th Annual Austin String Band Festival promises an unforgettable musical experience in the Texas Hill Country. @AustinFriendsTM

Getting The Gig, presented by the Lubbock Cultural Arts Foundation, is an exciting opportunity for artists, musicians, and creatives looking to take the next step in their careers. Come out for an evening focused on making connections, gaining valuable insight, and learning what it takes to turn talent and passion into real opportunities in the creative industry. The event will take place at Jake’s Sports Cafe on Tuesday, October 13, from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Whether you’re an emerging artist or an experienced creative looking to expand your network, Getting The Gig is a great chance to connect with fellow creatives and discover new possibilities. Come ready to meet, learn, and get your next gig! @ArtsLubbock

One week from today, Saturday, October 17, Fredericksburg will make Texas music history when it is officially certified as the 100th Music Friendly Texas Community! To commemorate the milestone, the Texas Music Office and Visit Fredericksburg will host a celebration at the historic Luckenbach Dance Hall. Festivities begin at 6 p.m. with a two-step lesson, followed by live music from Kathryn Legendre and Theo Lawrence—perfect for dancing—along with the official certification ceremony. The event is free and open to all ages. The Music Friendly Texas (MFT) Program provides communities with a structured framework to support and grow their local music economies. By bringing together local stakeholders, music industry professionals, and city leadership, the program encourages collaboration, strengthens industry connections, and creates opportunities for long-term economic growth. Fredericksburg’s designation as the 100th certified community marks a significant milestone for the statewide program and highlights the growing role music plays in Texas communities. Two-step dance Lessons - 6pm Kathryn Legendre - 7pm Theo Lawrence Band - 8pm @LuckenbachTexas @VisitFredTexas @legendre @TheoLawrence

Always an exciting annual event for locals and visitors, The 31st Terlingua Music Bash will be held over four days, Oct. 15th - 18th 2026, with original singer-songwriter music from sixty musicians spread across five Ghostown venues; The Starlight Theatre, Boathouse Bar & Bungalows, Temple of the Bird, DB's Rustic Iron BBQ and La Kiva. Firewater, Langham & Gill, Matt Harlan, The Flyin' A's, Scott Walker Band, Neil Trammel, Roger Moon, The Ramblewoods, Blind Squirrel, Claude Butch Morgan, The Whitmores, Riley Amanda and dozens more are part of a packed lineup. It's a huge weekend of desert magic, friendship and heartfelt music. The theme for 2026 is "The Day Of The Dead" and all are encouraged to participate in a costume event on Saturday. Each night after clubs close, come hear the desert sing as musicians play in late night song circles. No tickets or wristbands to buy; events and musical performances are free. Non-profit from the beginning, the Bash now makes that official as a part of 501(c)3 Cabin 10's charitable work to fund the Mark "Eyeball" Kneeskern Memorial Art Scholarship for Terlingua High School. Funds are raised through a very fun and eclectic silent auction. The Bash is seeking silent auction items now, please email [email protected] or call 512/ 739-2212. More details are available at cabin10.org.

The Inaugural Tejunto Festival comes to Mission, Texas, on Saturday, October 10, celebrating the vibrant musical traditions of Tejano and Conjunto music. The festival takes place at Leo Peña “La Placita” Park, in the heart of downtown Mission, creating a welcoming setting for families, music lovers, and the community to come together. The event celebrates the unique musical blend captured by the name “Tejunto”—Tejano plus Conjunto—with a full day of entertainment beginning with a youth talent show and continuing into an evening concert. Set against the lively atmosphere of downtown Mission, the festival promises an opportunity to experience the sounds, culture, and traditions that have shaped South Texas music. Leo Peña “La Placita” Park, located near the intersection of Business 83 and Conway Avenue, provides an ideal community gathering place for this inaugural celebration. Whether you're a longtime fan of Tejano and Conjunto music or discovering these sounds for the first time, the Tejunto Festival offers a day of music, culture, and community in Mission.

The Inaugural Tejunto Festival comes to Mission, Texas, on Saturday, October 10, celebrating the vibrant musical traditions of Tejano and Conjunto music. The festival takes place at Leo Peña “La Placita” Park, in the heart of downtown Mission, creating a welcoming setting for families, music lovers, and the community to come together. The event celebrates the unique musical blend captured by the name “Tejunto”—Tejano plus Conjunto—with a full day of entertainment beginning with a youth talent show and continuing into an evening concert. Set against the lively atmosphere of downtown Mission, the festival promises an opportunity to experience the sounds, culture, and traditions that have shaped South Texas music. Leo Peña “La Placita” Park, located near the intersection of Business 83 and Conway Avenue, provides an ideal community gathering place for this inaugural celebration. Whether you're a longtime fan of Tejano and Conjunto music or discovering these sounds for the first time, the Tejunto Festival offers a day of music, culture, and community in Mission.

Sales of the Texas Music specialty license plate though the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles fund our Music Education and Community Grant providing up to $3,000 for music education programs. Texas non-profits are eligible to apply to fund instrument purchases or music lessons for Texas schools or professional development workshops that are free and open to the public. Grant applications open October 4, 2026. Buy a plate and help fund music education in Texas myplates.com/design/backgrou… Apply for a grant  egrants.gov.texas.gov/fundin…

The second annual Bryan TX Songwriter Festival returns October 9–10, bringing two days of free live music and intimate songwriter performances to Historic Downtown Bryan, Texas. The free Main Stage, located at the intersection of Main Street and E. 29th Street, will feature an impressive lineup including Radney Foster, Blue Water Highway, Max & Heather Stalling, Beat Root Revival, Randy Hoyt, Molly McDonald, Macie Hanna, and performers from Texas A&M’s School of Performance, Visualization & Fine Arts. For an even more intimate experience, the festival’s VIP add-on features songwriter rounds and behind-the-song stories with artists including Sean McConnell, Chuck Cannon, Bruce Robison, Jamie Lin Wilson, Ryan Beaver, Jason Eady, Owen Temple, Kelley Mickwee, Dub Miller, Marcus Eldridge, Brock DeWald, Keller Cox, Eli Kollman, and Kyle Hutton. With performances taking place throughout the heart of Downtown Bryan—including venues such as Palace Theater and The Songwriter—the weekend offers music fans a chance to experience some of Texas and Nashville’s finest songwriters up close. @VisitBryanTX @BCSChamber @CityofBryan