Waco, Texas, is home to more than just iconic landmarks and scenic parks—it’s also a vibrant cultural hub with a variety of exciting festivals throughout the year. Whether you’re a foodie, music lover, or arts enthusiast, there’s a festival for every kind of traveler in this charming Central Texas city.
From local celebrations of Texas culture to larger festivals showcasing live music, art, and delicious food, Waco offers plenty of reasons to take a road trip. In this guide, we’ll take you through the top festivals in Waco that are worth planning your next Texas road trip around. Get ready to pack your bags and experience the best of Waco’s festival scene!
Why Waco is a Great Road Trip Destination for Festivals
Waco’s central location in Texas makes it an easy stop for anyone traveling across the state. The city’s festivals are perfect for travelers looking to experience local culture, taste regional food, and enjoy some live entertainment in a laid-back, small-town atmosphere. Whether you’re looking to spend a weekend immersed in art and music or indulge in some delicious barbecue and craft beer, Waco has a festival that suits your interests.
What makes Waco’s festivals especially appealing is the mix of traditions and modernity—events like the Texas Rose Festival embrace the region’s deep-rooted history, while others like The Waco Family & Faith International Film Festival bring fresh, creative energy to the city. Whatever your passion, Waco offers an event that combines fun and authenticity.
Top Festivals in Waco Worth the Road Trip
1. Texas Rose Festival (October)
One of the biggest and most beloved festivals in Waco, the Texas Rose Festival celebrates the beauty and history of roses in Central Texas. Held annually in October, this festival is a true showcase of the city’s rich heritage, including a vibrant parade, beautiful rose gardens, and a royal court ceremony. The festival also includes garden tours, live entertainment, arts and crafts vendors, and a carnival with rides and games.
For rose lovers, the Texas Rose Garden is a must-see during this festival, offering stunning displays of roses in full bloom. It’s a fantastic way to experience Waco’s small-town charm while enjoying the beauty of one of Texas’ most iconic flowers.
Dates: October
Famous For: Rose garden tours, parade, and historic celebrations
Tip: Make sure to check out the Texas Rose Festival Queen’s Coronation—a highlight of the event that features a formal ceremony and pageantry.
2. Waco Cultural Arts Festival (September)
If you’re an art lover or simply enjoy immersing yourself in creative culture, the Waco Cultural Arts Festival is the perfect event for your road trip. Held every September, this festival celebrates the diverse arts scene in Waco with a wide range of performances, art installations, and exhibits. From local painters to national performers, the event brings together artists from all over to showcase their talents.
The festival also includes a street art competition, live performances from local musicians and theater groups, and various family-friendly activities. It’s a fantastic way to experience Waco’s artistic side while supporting local talent and creativity.
Dates: September
Famous For: Art exhibitions, live music, street art competition
Tip: Don’t miss the Outdoor Sculpture Garden and the Children’s Arts Area, which features interactive art activities for the whole family.
3. Waco’s Annual Music Festival (July)
For music lovers, Waco’s Annual Music Festival is a must-visit event. This festival, held every July, brings together a mix of local and regional musicians for a weekend of live performances across various genres. From country and blues to indie and rock, you’ll be able to enjoy diverse sounds while exploring the city’s vibrant music scene.
Held in Brazos Park East, this outdoor music festival features food trucks, craft beer, and local vendors, making it the perfect place to relax with friends and family while enjoying great tunes. The event is also pet-friendly, so you can bring your furry friends along to enjoy the festivities!
Dates: July
Famous For: Live music performances, food trucks, and craft beer
Tip: Check out the VIP packages for exclusive access to special seating and backstage areas.
4. Waco Family & Faith International Film Festival (March)
For those who appreciate cinema, the Waco Family & Faith International Film Festival is a festival you won’t want to miss. Held every March, this festival celebrates family-friendly films and inspiring stories. The event showcases independent films, documentaries, and shorts that focus on themes of faith, family, and positive values.
The festival includes screenings, panel discussions, and opportunities to meet filmmakers and industry professionals. It’s a great way to experience Waco’s growing cultural scene while celebrating the power of storytelling.
Dates: March
Famous For: Family-friendly films, independent filmmakers, and cultural discussions
Tip: Arrive early to get a good seat for the screenings, as this event can get busy with film lovers and industry insiders.
5. Waco Downtown Farmers Market (Year-Round)
While not a traditional festival, the Waco Downtown Farmers Market is a year-round event that brings the community together every Saturday. If you’re visiting Waco, this market is a great place to experience the flavors of Central Texas, with fresh produce, homemade baked goods, and local artisanal products.
The market also features live music and food trucks, making it a fun stop for anyone looking to explore the local food scene. Whether you’re looking to pick up some fresh ingredients, enjoy a delicious lunch, or simply soak up the vibrant atmosphere, the Waco Farmers Market is an excellent choice for a road trip stop.
Dates: Every Saturday (Year-Round)
Famous For: Fresh local produce, live music, and food trucks
Tip: Arrive early for the best selection of fresh produce and local goodies.
6. The Texas Craft Beer Festival (April)
For beer enthusiasts, the Texas Craft Beer Festival in Waco is an event you won’t want to miss. Held every April, this festival celebrates the vibrant craft beer scene in Texas, with over 50 breweries showcasing their best brews. The festival offers beer tastings, brewery tours, and live music, creating the perfect environment for enjoying great beer with friends.
It’s a fantastic way to sample unique craft beers from around the state while enjoying the beautiful spring weather in Waco.
Dates: April
Famous For: Craft beer tastings, brewery tours, and local food vendors
Tip: Be sure to pace yourself with the tastings—there’s a lot of great beer to try!
Packing Tips for Your Festival Road Trip to Waco
Comfortable shoes for walking and standing during outdoor events
Sunglasses and sunscreen to protect yourself from the Texas sun, especially during outdoor festivals
Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
Camera to capture your favorite festival moments and photo ops
Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings, especially during the spring and fall months
Portable phone charger for taking photos and navigating between festival events
Local Tips and Seasonal Advice
Best times to visit: Fall (September–November) and spring (March–May) are ideal for festivals, offering pleasant weather for outdoor events.
Check event schedules in advance to make sure you don’t miss out on your favorite festivals, as dates can vary each year.
Plan for parking—some festivals may have limited parking in the downtown area, so consider arriving early or using public transportation if available.
Explore local eateries and food trucks at the festivals—Waco’s food scene is delicious, and you’ll find unique local flavors to enjoy.
Conclusion: Festivals in Waco for Every Road Tripper
Waco’s festivals offer something for everyone—whether you’re a music lover, food enthusiast, art connoisseur, or film buff. From the colorful Texas Rose Festival to the laid-back Waco’s Annual Music Festival, there are countless reasons to make Waco your next road trip destination. The city’s welcoming atmosphere and vibrant cultural scene make it a fun and memorable stop on any Texas adventure.
So, grab your road trip crew, hit the road, and head to Waco for a festival experience that you won’t soon forget!
