Austin, TX
Texas Independence Day is here! Celebrate with these 25+ classic Texas hobbies
Whether you’re a native Texan or just passing through, here’s a list of very stereotypical things to do here. How many can you check off today?
Today is Texas Independence Day, and there’s no better way to celebrate the Lone Star State than by indulging in some classic Texas traditions.
Whether you’re a born-and-raised Texan or just here for the festivities, here’s a list of activities that capture the true spirit of Texas. How many can you check off before the day is done?
Why is Texas Independence Day celebrated?
Texas Independence Day, celebrated annually on March 2, marks the anniversary of when Texas declared independence from Mexico in 1836. On this day, delegates at Washington-on-the-Brazos signed the Texas Declaration of Independence, officially breaking away from Mexican rule and establishing the Republic of Texas.
The republic remained independent for nearly 10 years before joining the United States in 1845. The day is significant in Texas history because it represents the state’s unique path to statehood and its fiercely independent identity.
Classic things to do in Texas
While we recognize some of these are more plausible than others, this is only a compilation of classic Texas activities. Remember, the goal is to cram in as many as possible to celebrate the Lone Star State’s independence.
- Eat barbecue in Lockhart
- Visit the Alamo in San Antonio
- Dance at Gruene Hall
- Eat a kolache from West, Texas
- Go to a rodeo
- Visit the Stockyards in Fort Worth and watch the twice-daily cattle drive
- Visit the Texas Capitol in Austin
- Go two-stepping at Billy Bob’s Texas
- Host a backyard barbecue
- Enjoy a meal along the River Walk in San Antonio
- Explore Big Bend National Park
- Visit the Magnolia Market in Waco
- Float a river
- Go wine tasting in Fredericksburg
- Visit the Fort Worth Zoo
- Watch bats fly out from under the Congress Avenue Bridge in Austin
- Order a Shiner Bock on draft
- Visit the Sixth Floor Museum in Dallas
- Go horseback riding
- Eat Blue Bell ice cream
- Take a scenic drive through Hill Country
- Savor a late-night Whataburger
- Visit the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden
- Go stargazing at the McDonald Observatory
- Eat at the Big Texan Steak Ranch in Amarillo
- Visit the Perot Museum of Nature and Science in Dallas
- Visit the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library in College Station
- Drink a Dr Pepper — or maybe two
- Eat on the patio of Joe T. Garcia’s in Fort Worth