Ultimate Guide to Annual Events in Kemah, Texas

Nestled on the Texas Gulf Coast, Kemah may be a small town, but it brings big-time energy when it comes to year-round festivals, parades, and celebrations. Known for its vibrant boardwalk, waterside dining, and nautical charm, Kemah knows how to keep both locals and visitors entertained with a packed calendar of events. Explore the top annual events in Kemah Texas, including festivals, fairs, and community gatherings that showcase the town’s vibrant culture.

Crawfish-_-Zydeco-Festival_Desktop_ETCrawfish-_-Zydeco-Festival_Desktop_ET
Motown-Tribute_Desktop_ETMotown-Tribute_Desktop_ET
July-4th-Parade-and-Community-Celebration_Desktop_ETJuly-4th-Parade-and-Community-Celebration_Desktop_ET
Crawfish-_-Zydeco-Festival_Mobile_ETCrawfish-_-Zydeco-Festival_Mobile_ET
Motown-Tribute_Mobile_ETMotown-Tribute_Mobile_ET
July-4th-Parade-and-Community-Celebration-_Mobile_ETJuly-4th-Parade-and-Community-Celebration-_Mobile_ET

Mardi Gras Kemah Style

You don’t have to head to New Orleans to experience the fun of Mardi Gras. Every February, Kemah Boardwalk hosts its own vibrant celebration, filled with:

  • Parades with colorful floats

  • Live zydeco and Cajun music

  • Beads galore

  • Costume contests

  • Family-friendly activities

This Gulf Coast spin on Mardi Gras is a local favorite and perfect for all ages. Whether you come for the seafood gumbo, the music, or just the beads, Mardi Gras in Kemah is always a good time.


Spring Break on the Boardwalk

Spring Break in Kemah is all about soaking up the sun, live music, and adrenaline-pumping rides on the boardwalk. Each March, the town fills with energy as families and college students descend on the coast.

Here’s what you can expect:

  • Daily live music performances

  • Boardwalk ride discounts

  • Kid-friendly games and activities

  • Fireworks on select nights

  • Pop-up food vendors and sweet treats

It’s the perfect spring getaway, especially for those who want beach vibes without going too far from home.


Crawfish Festival

Nothing says Texas Gulf Coast quite like a crawfish boil, and Kemah takes it to the next level with its annual Crawfish Festival each April. This event is a foodie’s dream, featuring:

  • Thousands of pounds of boiled crawfish

  • Spicy Cajun-style sides

  • Craft beer and cocktails

  • Live country and blues bands

  • Crawfish-eating contests

Come hungry, bring your appetite, and prepare to get your hands dirty—Kemah knows how to do crawfish right.

Memorial Day Weekend Celebration 

Memorial Day in Kemah is more than a holiday—it’s the kickoff to summer, and it’s celebrated in true boardwalk fashion. Expect:

  • Patriotic-themed fireworks

  • Veterans’ tributes

  • Live music from local bands

  • Special discounts for military families

  • Games and giveaways

It’s a heartwarming and high-energy event that combines honor, celebration, and fun, making it one of the highlights of the year.


Rock the Dock Summer Concert Series

All summer long, the Rock the Dock concert series keeps the Kemah Boardwalk buzzing. Every Thursday evening from May through August, local and regional bands perform free live concerts right by the water.

Genres include:

  • Classic rock

  • Blues

  • Country

  • Funk

  • Top 40 hits

Grab a drink, snag a seat, and dance the night away while enjoying the ocean breeze and vibrant crowd.


Independence Day Celebration

Fourth of July in Kemah is as American as apple pie—only with fireworks bursting over the water. The Independence Day festivities feature:

  • One of the best fireworks displays on the Gulf Coast

  • Patriotic boat parades

  • Live music and DJs

  • Food trucks and family activities

It’s one of Kemah’s biggest events of the year, attracting visitors from all over Texas. Pro tip: Arrive early to claim a good viewing spot!


Boo on the Boardwalk

When Halloween rolls around, Kemah transforms into a haunted waterfront village with its family-friendly (and slightly spooky) Boo on the Boardwalk event.

Highlights include:

  • Haunted houses and mazes

  • Trick-or-treating stations

  • Costume contests for kids and pets

  • Pumpkin decorating booths

  • Scary (but fun) rides

Whether you’re bringing little goblins or just looking for a fall-themed date night, Boo on the Boardwalk delivers Halloween fun for all ages.


Kemah Oktoberfest

Yes, Texas does Oktoberfest—and Kemah’s version brings German flair to the waterfront with a laid-back, lively vibe. Expect:

  • Authentic German beers and bratwursts

  • Oompah bands and accordion music

  • Lederhosen contests

  • Bavarian games and dancing

Whether you’re German or just want an excuse to enjoy a cold beer by the bay, Oktoberfest in Kemah is a must.


Christmas in Kemah / Jingle on the Boardwalk

December brings the sparkle and cheer of Jingle on the Boardwalk, Kemah’s month-long holiday celebration filled with:

  • Visits with Santa Claus

  • Elf-themed scavenger hunts

  • Holiday movie nights under the stars

  • Live musical performances

  • A giant Christmas tree lighting ceremony

The boardwalk becomes a winter wonderland, complete with hot cocoa, lights, and festive joy. It’s one of the best times of year to experience Kemah’s warm hospitality and coastal charm.


New Year’s Eve Fireworks

Ring in the new year Kemah-style with an epic fireworks display over the bay. The Boardwalk hosts a family-friendly evening with:

  • Live DJs and dance parties

  • Countdowns for kids and adults

  • Champagne toasts

  • Late-night boardwalk rides

It’s the perfect place to celebrate the new year by the water, surrounded by friends, fireworks, and fun.


Other Can’t-Miss Seasonal Events

In addition to the major annual celebrations, Kemah also hosts a variety of seasonal and pop-up events throughout the year, such as:

  • Car shows and bike rallies

  • Art festivals and craft fairs

  • Sailing regattas and fishing tournaments

  • Food and wine tastings

With such a diverse event calendar, there’s never a dull moment in Kemah, no matter the season.


Tips for Attending Kemah Events Like a Pro

To make the most out of your visit, here are some handy tips:

  • Arrive early for parking, especially during major events

  • Check the Kemah Boardwalk’s event calendar for the latest updates

  • Dress for the weather—it can be breezy by the bay

  • Stay overnight at one of the local hotels or inns for a relaxed experience

  • Bring the whole family—most events are kid-friendly

  • Follow local social media pages for pop-up event alerts


Conclusion: Experience the Magic of Kemah Year-Round

Kemah, Texas might be known for its charming boardwalk and coastal views, but its true magic lies in the community spirit and festive atmosphere that pulses through its annual events. From spicy crawfish boils and sparkling summer concerts, to holiday cheer and patriotic fireworks, there’s something happening in Kemah almost every month of the year.

Whether you’re a local looking to rediscover your hometown or a visitor seeking authentic coastal Texas vibes, Kemah’s annual events offer unforgettable experiences that keep people coming back again and again.

So mark your calendar, pack your flip-flops or costumes (depending on the season), and get ready to make some unforgettable memories in Kemah, Texas—where the fun never stops and the celebration is always just around the corner.

Return to Kemah Homepage