By Hunter Lanier

Nestled within East Texas’ lush Piney Woods, Kilgore is a town with a big culture. Known for its storied heritage dating back to the 1930s when the discovery of oil turned Kilgore into a boomtown, the city is still writing its history as a beacon of Texan art, dance, theater, and film. With so much to see and do, fitting it all into a weekend trip can be difficult, so we’ve hand-selected three of our favorite creative highlights in Kilgore.  

Rangerette Revels 

Although Kilgore had humble beginnings, the creation of the Rangerettes in 1940 brought showbiz flair to the East Texas Gridiron. As the world’s most famous collegiate drill team, the Rangerettes have performed across the entire world, including South America, Japan, and Switzerland to name a few. But every spring in their hometown, they put on the highly anticipated Rangerette Revels, the grand finale of their performing season. Each year’s Revels centers around a unique theme, transforming the stage into various imaginative settings like Broadway. 

Tickets for these performances sell out quickly due to the high demand, so be sure to act fast if you want to witness this spectacle of high kicks, precision, and showmanship. In addition to Revels, the Rangerettes also host the Showoffs—a preview of their upcoming routines—in the summer and a special Christmas Extravaganza that adds a festive sparkle to the holiday season. For those interested in the history and tradition of the Rangerettes, you’ll want to visit the Rangerette Showcase and Museum on the Kilgore College campus, where you can dive into the legacy of the world’s first collegiate drill team.  

Texas Shakespeare Festival Center 

All the world’s a stage, but only Kilgore is home to the Texas Shakespeare Festival, East Texas' only professional theater company and one of the most lauded Shakespeare festivals in the country. Every year, the center puts on a season of productions that bring Shakespeare's timeless works to life with a flair that marries traditional and modern interpretations.  

For the 2025 season, you can look forward to productions of “As You Like It,” “Twelfth Night,” and the monumental “Macbeth.” But the bard’s works aren’t the only productions at the festival. You’ll also be able to see Shakespeare-inspired plays and musicals, such as "Kiss Me, Kate,” which features the legendary music of Cole Porter.  

Reel East Texas Film Festival 

Film buffs unite at the Reel East Texas Film Festival, a celebration hosted in Kilgore's historic Texas Theater. In addition to live screenings and special events for movie lovers, the festival provides a platform for filmmakers to showcase their work.  

The festival's vibrant atmosphere creates an engaging experience, offering a rare chance to watch films and participate in live Q&As in a close-knit setting. What’s more, the historic Texas Theater adds a layer of nostalgia and charm, making it not just a festival, but an experience steeped in the cinematic history of Texas. 

Conclusion 

Kilgore, TX, is a vibrant community that shows how Texas charm thrives beyond the usual spots. With the world-renowned Rangerette Revels, the Texas Shakespeare Festival, and the Reel East Texas Film Festival, Kilgore’s vibrant culture makes it a can’t-miss stop on any Texas road trip.  

No matter the reason for your visit, staying in one of Kilgore's welcoming hotels will immerse you in the inviting charm of Texas hospitality. 

About the Author: Hunter Lanier is the head writer and content specialist for Tour Texas. When he isn’t writing about the many great places in the state of Texas, he’s writing books and screenplays. He may or may not own an armadillo in the future.