In Amarillo, celebration is part of the culture. From rodeo lights to food trucks, mariachi bands to hot-air balloons, Amarillo’s festivals offer a vibrant slice of West Texas life that’s well worth the drive. Whether you’re chasing barbecue smoke, tapping your boots to country tunes, or cheering at a cowboy showdown, there’s always something exciting happening under the wide Amarillo sky.
Planning a road trip to Amarillo around one of its signature festivals turns a getaway into an unforgettable event. With family-friendly fun, music for all tastes, and a strong sense of community, these festivals showcase the best of Texas Panhandle spirit. Here’s when and where to find the most epic Amarillo celebrations.
Overview of Amarillo’s Festival Scene
Amarillo’s festivals reflect the city’s roots—ranching, Route 66, Hispanic heritage, arts, and small-town pride all converge in a lineup of events that feel both nostalgic and modern. Many are held in parks or historic districts and include live music, food vendors, parades, artisan booths, and rodeo events.
Most festivals are affordable or even free, making them perfect for road trippers on a budget. Best of all, many take place outdoors with pet-friendly, family-friendly vibes and authentic Texas hospitality.
Whether you’re planning a summer escape or a fall weekend getaway, these Amarillo festivals offer a reason to hit the road every season.
Top Festivals and Fairs in Amarillo Worth the Drive
1. Tri-State Fair & Rodeo
One of Amarillo’s biggest annual events, this classic Texas fair features livestock shows, nightly rodeos, carnival rides, funnel cakes, and live country music. It’s family-friendly, high-energy, and filled with Amarillo pride.
When: September (9 days)
Where: Amarillo Tri-State Exposition Grounds
Approx Cost: $10–$20 admission; ride passes extra
Famous For: PRCA rodeo, fried food, and fair rides
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Come on a weekday for discounted tickets and shorter lines.
2. Amarillo Chamber Good Times Celebration Barbecue Cook-Off
This epic barbecue bash draws more than 100 teams serving up ribs, brisket, sausage, and Texas hospitality. Set in downtown Amarillo, it’s a smoky, savory celebration of local flavor—and a must for any foodie.
When: September
Where: Downtown Amarillo
Approx Cost: $30 wristband (includes unlimited samples)
Famous For: One of the largest BBQ cook-offs in the region
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Arrive hungry—it’s all-you-can-sample and wildly popular.
3. Hoodoo Mural Festival
Amarillo’s artsiest event blends music, food trucks, and live mural painting in the heart of downtown. The festival supports local artists and turns Amarillo into a giant, walkable gallery.
When: October
Where: Polk Street, Downtown Amarillo
Approx Cost: Free admission
Famous For: Massive street murals created live during the event
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring a camera and wear walking shoes—murals stretch several blocks.
4. Starlight Theater Concert Series
Held every summer in Sam Houston Park, this weekly outdoor concert series features live music under the stars. Bring lawn chairs, picnic blankets, and dogs—it’s a laid-back local favorite.
When: June–August (Tuesday evenings)
Where: Sam Houston Park
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Family-friendly music nights with open-air vibes
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Arrive early for the best lawn spots and pack a cooler with snacks.
5. Route 66 Celebration
Celebrate Amarillo’s historic ties to the Mother Road at this annual street party. Classic cars, rockabilly bands, vintage vendors, and Route 66 nostalgia take over 6th Avenue for one unforgettable weekend.
When: June
Where: Route 66 Historic District (6th Ave)
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Vintage cars, music, and Americana charm
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Park a few blocks away and walk in—the street fills fast.
6. Boo at the Zoo – Amarillo Zoo
A favorite for families, this Halloween-themed event lets kids trick-or-treat around the zoo, enjoy games, and see animals in a festive setting. Costumes encouraged!
When: Late October
Where: Amarillo Zoo
Approx Cost: $5–$10
Famous For: Family-friendly Halloween fun with animals
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring a flashlight for later visits—some areas get dark early.
7. Center City Electric Light Parade
Kick off the holiday season with a dazzling downtown parade featuring floats decked out in lights, festive music, and a Santa sighting. It’s a magical tradition perfect for road trippers looking for holiday cheer.
When: Early December
Where: Downtown Amarillo
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Holiday lights, music, and family fun
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Dress warm and arrive early—crowds fill the sidewalks fast.
Local Eats to Pair with Festival Fun
1. Smokey Joe’s
A Route 66 staple with a laid-back vibe, Smokey Joe’s offers BBQ plates, burgers, and shaded patio seating. It’s great for a bite between mural walks or car shows.
Address: 2903 SW 6th Ave, Amarillo, TX 79106
Hours: Daily, 11 AM – 9 PM
Approx Cost: $10–$20
Famous For: Pulled pork and mural-covered outdoor patio
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Sit outside to enjoy live music and street views during events.
2. The 806 Coffee + Lounge
This eclectic coffee shop near downtown is ideal for relaxing between festival stops. It offers locally roasted coffee, pastries, and vegetarian fare.
Address: 2812 SW 6th Ave, Amarillo, TX 79106
Hours: Daily, 7 AM – Midnight
Approx Cost: $5–$15
Famous For: Chill vibe and artist-friendly space
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Check the event board—local musicians and poets often perform during festival weekends.
3. GoldenLight Café & Cantina
Great burgers, cold beer, and Route 66 history make this Amarillo legend a perfect pit stop after any festival. The patio is often filled with locals swapping stories and tapping boots to live music.
Address: 2908 SW 6th Ave, Amarillo, TX 79106
Hours: Mon–Sat, 11 AM – 9 PM
Approx Cost: $10–$18
Famous For: Historic Texas roadhouse with live music and beer
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Visit during Route 66 events—this is party central with an old-school twist.
Packing Tips for Festival Road Trippers
- Lawn chairs and picnic blanket
- Sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen
- Reusable water bottle
- Cooler with snacks and drinks
- Portable battery pack for your phone
- Festival schedule or app (if available)
- Pet leash and water bowl if bringing your dog
- Cash for vendors—some are cash-only
- Foldable umbrella or poncho in case of weather
- Camera or phone for snapping mural or parade shots
Local Tips and Seasonal Advice
Fall and spring are ideal for cooler, walkable weather
Book hotels early during major events like the Tri-State Fair
Festival parking fills fast—arrive early or use rideshare
Talk to locals—they’ll steer you toward secret events and food vendors
Family-friendly events are common, but check for pet policies
Bring layers—West Texas weather can shift quickly
Conclusion
In Amarillo, festivals are more than weekend fun—they’re a celebration of community, culture, and the Texas way of life. Whether you’re two-stepping at a rodeo, munching on barbecue, or admiring a giant mural, these events offer an authentic look at what makes Amarillo shine.
So map your route, pack your boots, and let Amarillo’s festive spirit guide you. With a year-round calendar of can’t-miss fairs, cook-offs, parades, and concerts, there’s always a reason to roll into town and join the party.
