Annual Events in Hempstead, Texas: A Year-Round Celebration of Local Culture and Traditions
Hempstead, Texas, might be a small town, but it is big on charm, community, and vibrant annual events that attract both locals and visitors. Located just 50 miles northwest of Houston in Waller County, Hempstead has a rich history, and its calendar of events reflects a blend of that history, along with local traditions, agriculture, and good old-fashioned Texas fun.
From food festivals and parades to historical reenactments and seasonal fairs, Hempstead’s annual events offer something for everyone. Whether you’re a local looking to mark your calendar with exciting activities or a visitor planning a trip to this charming Texas town, this guide covers the best annual events in Hempstead, Texas, that you don’t want to miss.
1. Hempstead Watermelon Festival
When it comes to signature events in Hempstead, nothing is more iconic than the Hempstead Watermelon Festival. Held every July, this family-friendly festival celebrates the town’s history as a major producer of watermelons. For over 30 years, this summertime event has drawn crowds from all over Texas.
What to Expect at the Hempstead Watermelon Festival
The festival is packed with fun activities, including a watermelon eating contest, seed-spitting competitions, and a watermelon auction. Beyond the fruit-themed fun, the event also features a parade, live music, vendor booths, and plenty of delicious food. With a vibrant atmosphere, the Watermelon Festival is the perfect way to enjoy a summer day in Hempstead, whether you’re competing in the contests or just enjoying a fresh slice of melon.
Watermelon Festival Parade
A highlight of the festival is the annual Watermelon Parade, where the streets of Hempstead come alive with floats, marching bands, and local performers. This event offers a glimpse into the town’s strong sense of community, as locals and visitors line the streets to cheer on the procession.
2. Liendo Plantation Civil War Weekend
History buffs will love Hempstead’s Liendo Plantation Civil War Weekend, held every November. This immersive event is one of the largest Civil War reenactments in Texas, and it offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience life during the Civil War era.
What to Expect at Civil War Weekend
During this three-day event, reenactors from all over the country gather at the Liendo Plantation, one of Texas’ oldest historic homes, to recreate Civil War battles and daily life. Visitors can watch live skirmishes, witness cavalry demonstrations, and explore reenactor camps, complete with period-accurate uniforms and equipment.
The event also includes living history demonstrations, where participants portray everything from blacksmiths to civilian life in the 1860s. For those interested in American history, this is an educational and entertaining event that you won’t want to miss.
3. Waller County Fair & Rodeo
Texas wouldn’t be Texas without its county fairs and rodeos, and Hempstead plays host to the annual Waller County Fair & Rodeo every fall. This week-long event is packed with classic fair attractions, including livestock shows, carnival rides, rodeo events, and concerts featuring top country music artists.
Highlights of the Waller County Fair
The rodeo events are a major draw, with competitions such as bull riding, barrel racing, and team roping. Attendees can also enjoy tractor pulls, livestock auctions, and a variety of youth agricultural competitions, where future farmers and ranchers showcase their skills.
When the sun sets, the fairgrounds come alive with live music performances, offering a chance to dance the night away under the stars. The Waller County Fair & Rodeo is the perfect way to experience Texas’ proud agricultural heritage and enjoy a fun-filled week with family and friends.
4. Hempstead Trade Days
If you’re a fan of shopping for unique finds, Hempstead’s Trade Days is a must-visit event. Held on the first Saturday of each month, Hempstead Trade Days brings together a wide range of vendors, offering everything from antiques to handmade crafts, jewelry, clothing, and more.
A Treasure Trove for Bargain Hunters
Hempstead Trade Days is perfect for antique lovers and those who enjoy browsing for one-of-a-kind items. It’s a great way to support local artisans and discover treasures you won’t find in big-box stores. Whether you’re looking for vintage home decor or locally made gourmet foods, the monthly market has something for every type of shopper.
5. Texas Ranch Roundup
Held in early spring, the Texas Ranch Roundup is a celebration of Hempstead’s deep agricultural roots and ranching culture. This event brings together local ranchers, farmers, and anyone interested in agriculture for a day of education, demonstrations, and, of course, a little bit of Texas-style fun.
Ranching Demonstrations and Activities
During the Ranch Roundup, you’ll find live demonstrations of traditional ranching skills, including cattle roping, horse riding, and even branding. It’s a great way to learn more about the rich history of ranching in Texas and see the hard work that goes into running a successful ranch.
In addition to the demonstrations, attendees can browse through booths selling local farm products, handcrafted items, and even western wear. It’s an ideal event for families, offering activities that are both educational and entertaining.
6. Christmas on Main Street
Hempstead’s Christmas on Main Street is the town’s way of ushering in the holiday season with charm and cheer. Held in early December, this festive event transforms downtown Hempstead into a winter wonderland, complete with holiday lights, carolers, and, of course, an appearance from Santa Claus.
Holiday Markets and Festivities
One of the biggest draws of Christmas on Main Street is the holiday market, where local vendors sell everything from handmade ornaments to seasonal baked goods. It’s the perfect place to do a little holiday shopping while supporting local businesses.
Families can enjoy a variety of kid-friendly activities, including crafts, cookie decorating, and photos with Santa. The town’s Christmas tree lighting ceremony is another highlight, bringing the community together to celebrate the season.
7. Prairie View A&M University Homecoming
Just a short drive from Hempstead is Prairie View A&M University, and their annual Homecoming celebration is an event that draws students, alumni, and locals together for a weekend of festivities.
A Vibrant College Tradition
The Homecoming Parade features marching bands, floats, and spirited cheerleading performances. Attendees can enjoy tailgating before the big game, followed by the much-anticipated football match between Prairie View A&M University and one of their rivals. This event is full of energy, school spirit, and is a great way to experience the vibrant culture of a historically Black university close to Hempstead.
8. Hempstead Music and Arts Festival
Held every spring, the Hempstead Music and Arts Festival celebrates local art and music, bringing together artists, musicians, and performers from around Waller County and beyond. This festival is a great way to experience Hempstead’s creative community and enjoy a day of music, art, and food.
Art Exhibits and Live Performances
Visitors can browse art exhibits, which feature everything from paintings to sculptures and photography created by local artists. Meanwhile, live performances on multiple stages feature musicians, singers, and even dance troupes, offering entertainment throughout the day.
Food trucks and local vendors round out the festival, making it a perfect outing for families, couples, or anyone looking for a fun, culturally enriching day in Hempstead.
9. Fourth of July Celebration
Hempstead’s annual Fourth of July Celebration is a patriotic event that brings the community together for an evening of fireworks, live music, and traditional Fourth of July activities.
Fireworks and Festivities
Held at Hempstead City Park, this free event features a spectacular fireworks display that lights up the Texas night sky. Before the fireworks, attendees can enjoy live music from local bands, food trucks, and a variety of family-friendly activities like face painting and bounce houses.
It’s an event that embodies the small-town charm of Hempstead and offers a fun way to celebrate Independence Day with friends and family.
10. Hempstead Agricultural Days
In a town with deep agricultural roots, it’s no surprise that Hempstead Agricultural Days is one of the year’s biggest events. Held in early fall, this event celebrates local farming and ranching traditions, offering educational experiences and fun activities for all ages.
A Celebration of Farming and Ranching
Agricultural Days features farm tours, demonstrations, and exhibits that showcase the importance of agriculture in Hempstead’s economy and history. Visitors can learn about modern farming practices, see livestock up close, and even purchase fresh produce from local farms.
This event is perfect for families, offering kids the chance to experience farm life and interact with animals. For anyone interested in Texas’ agricultural heritage, Hempstead Agricultural Days is both informative and entertaining.
Conclusion: Celebrate the Best of Hempstead, Texas, All Year Long
Hempstead, Texas, may be a small town, but its annual events offer big-time fun. Whether you’re into history, local festivals, or simply enjoying a day out with family, Hempstead’s rich calendar of events provides something for everyone. From the iconic Watermelon Festival to the historical Civil War reenactments at Liendo Plantation, the town’s vibrant celebrations highlight its heritage, community spirit, and Texan pride.
No matter what time of year you visit, there’s always something exciting happening in Hempstead. So, mark your calendars, pack your bags, and get ready to explore the unique charm and traditions of this delightful Texas town.