15 Things Happening Across East Texas This Weekend – November 14
(East Texas) I'm not sure if this happens within your family or group of friends or not. If my wife and I don't already have big plans for the weekend, by Wednesday evening we are wondering what we're going to be doing for fun this weekend. It's usually last minute too, but those last-minute and spontaneous plans are sometimes the best. Recently we've discovered some great restaurants around East Texas by not having firm plans and just wandering around. Now that Wednesday is here, the question has come up!
Looking at all of the events that are happening, there seems to be a little bit of everything for anyone. The annual Heritage Syrup Festival in Henderson is one of the final major events of the fall season. Thousands of people will be strolling through historic downtown Henderson while shopping, eating, dancing, and taking in the sight of the car show and more.
So, if you don't have plans yet for the weekend and you need an idea on what to do, I have you covered.
Here's A Look At What's Happening This Weekend In East Texas
For more information or to purchase tickets for any listed ticketed event, click or tap the event name to go to its official page for tickets and additional details.
Heritage Syrup Festival - Henderson
Saturday 9a-5p
downtown Henderson
More than 15 blocks of downtown Henderson will be covered with arts & crafts vendors, exhibitors, food booths, antique cars, musical entertainment, children's activities, and demonstrations as Henderson celebrates syrup!
Tyler Weinerfest 2026
Saturday 12n-4p
710 Amherst Dr - Tyler
This first-time event at Pollard Park in Tyler will be celebrating the weiner dog! But all dogs are welcome. There will be races, look-alike contests, vendors, food trucks, and dogs - lots of them.
Turkey and Ham Drop
Saturday 11a-1p
2222 ESE Loop 323
Exceptional Emergency Center will be hosting its second annual turkey and ham drop. Families can receive their choice of a turkey or ham, along with a dinner box or pie. The event is first come, first served, while supplies last, and registration will take place in person.
Tyler Fall Carnival
Wednesday - Sunday
4601 S Broadway Ave - Tyler
More than 50 state-fair-style carnival rides, games, and food booths are waiting for you to enjoy at Broadway Square Mall. The carnival opens at 6p weekdays and 1p on weekends. Get special all-you-can-ride armbands and ride all the rides you want. Then don't forget your favorite snack too!
Strong Shall Stand 5K
Saturday @ 7:30a
1626 E Whaley St - Longview
This is more than just a race — it’s a show of solidarity with the brave individuals who protect, serve, and heal others, often at great personal cost. A portion of the race proceeds benefits Operation True North, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization providing mental health services to veterans, active duty military, first responders, health care workers, and their families.
READ MORE: What If East Texas Towns Were Floats In The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade?
Community Donut Ride
Saturday 8a-9a
2249 SSE Loop 323 - Tyler
The ride will begin at Ride Tyler. It is a leisurely, no-drop community ride. It’s the perfect way to explore, meet fellow riders, and enjoy a sweet treat and a relaxed morning on two wheels. All experience levels are welcome.
Lake-Scapes annual Car Show 2026
Saturday @ 8a
9721 State Highway 198 - Mabank
Classic cars, trucks, hot rods & more will be on display. There will be a local coffee truck, complimentary breakfast, and more. The event supports local animal shelters.
Veterans Day Auto Show
Saturday 8a-3p
1218 US Hwy 271 - Gilmer
The Veterans Day Car, Motorcycle, and Truck Show is hosted by the Historic Upshur Museum at the Gilmer Civic Center on Saturday. There will be prizes, door prizes, vendors, food trucks, and more on site. There is a fee to participate in the car show.
49th annual Heritage Festival Edgewood
Saturday @ 9a
105 E Elm St - Edgewood
This year is the Museum's 50th year! Established in 1976 with the Spradlin Log Cabin, there are now more than 20 buildings at the museum. Join us in November to celebrate at the Edgewood Heritage Festival
Tyler Out Of The Darkness Walk
Saturday @ 9a
455 Shiloh Rd - Tyler
Suicide is the 11th leading cause of death in the United States. To prevent suicide, we need to understand it first.
Funds raised at the Out of the Darkness Tyler Walk directly support research, advocacy efforts, and educational programs in schools, workplaces, and communities across Texas. Register today, and you're taking the first step to help save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide. It's free, quick, and easy to make a real impact.
Reklaw Trade Days
Saturday 9a-3p
140 W Main St - Reklaw
There is something for everyone at Reklaw Trade Days - shopping, eating, yard games, photo ops and visiting with old and new friends. You'll find 60-70 vendor booths and 2 stores and a concession stand offering antiques, collectibles, old-fashioned candy and toys, crafts, woodwork, flea market finds, candles and soaps, repurposed and refurbished furniture, pretty much anything and everything.
November Artisan Walk On The Bowery
Saturday 10a-2p
downtown Winnsboro - Winnsboro
Small businesses are the heart of our community, and this November, we’re celebrating all the people who make Winnsboro special!
Join us for the Artisan Walk on the Bowery in downtown Winnsboro. Come browse the work of talented local artisans, discover unique handmade treasures, and enjoy a day exploring everything our downtown has to offer.
While you're here, take some time to visit our local shops, grab a bite to eat, and support the small businesses that work hard every day to keep our community thriving. Every purchase made locally helps support a neighbor, a family, a dream, and the future of our town.
A thriving downtown doesn't happen on its own. It takes all of us choosing to show up, shop local, and invest in the place we call home.
Elijah's Retreat Fall Festival
Saturday 11a-4p
257 CR 3110 - Jacksonville
Join us for a day of family fun at Elijah's Retreat's Annual Fall Festival! Bring your family, invite your friends, and enjoy a beautiful fall day filled with exciting activities, delicious food, animals, and unforgettable memories — all while supporting families facing autism!
Purchase tickets to participate in events like horseback rides, hayrides, laser tag, barrel train, and more. There will be fair food and lots of prizes to win.
Be The Light
Saturday @ 6p
Bullard Kid's Park - Bullard
A walkthrough luminary event. We are lighting up Bullard Kid's Park for Foster Care and Adoption Awareness. Bring the kids! Experience this beautiful immersive display of lights! The Fostering Collective, as well as other child care agencies and advocates, will be available for questions or more information.
Farmer's Markets
Shop local and support East Texas farmers. Farmers have been busy growing crops for you to enjoy. Shop local produce, homemade goods, products, and more at these East Texas farmers' markets.
Saturday 8a-12n
111 E Carnegie St - Winnsboro
Tyler - Rose City Farmer's Market
Saturday 8a-12n
221 S Broadway Ave - Tyler
Saturday 9a-1p
813 W Spring St - Palestine
Saturday 7:30a-11:30a
105 W Cotton St - Longview
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