Events in San Marcos

San Marcos is best known for its beautiful river and its sprawling outlet shopping malls, but it’s also where you’ll find numerous festivals and events. The Mermaid Festival, Sacred Springs Powwow and Sights & Sounds of Christmas are among the many great events in San Marcos. If you’re planning to visit this alluring Hill Country town, make sure to check out our list of San Marcos events so you don’t miss a thing.

February
Mardi Gras Parade
Who says you need to go to Louisiana to celebrate Mardi Gras? Laissez les bon temps rouler right here in San Marcos with the Mistick Krewe of Okeanos. This party includes all the key ingredients of a great Mardi Gras, including music, family-friendly fun, and a procession of colorful floats that winds through Downtown San Marcos and the Historic Homes District.
San Marcos, TX 78666

April
Martian Arts Festival
Get weird and wacky at this annual festival that brings together the best of San Marcos’ diverse and vibrant culture. Check out the works of local artists, listen to bands ranging from fusion jazz to reggae, and take part in a yoga or meditation session.
1100 High Road
San Marcos, TX 78666

Just for Fun Parade
Sometimes, the best reason to do something is because you want to. That’s the idea behind the Just for Fun Parade, a parade with no other purpose than to have a great time. Meet at San Marcos’ Children’s Park if you want to participate or find a spot on the Square to take in all the festivities.
San Marcos, TX 78666

May
Heritage Home Tour
Feel like an old family friend as you step inside some of San Marcos’ most beautiful historic homes during this multi-day event. Follow a self-guided tour to several homes and places of cultural significance, with knowledgeable docents at each to fill you in on the fascinating historical and architectural details.
San Marcos, TX 78666

Dirt Dauber Festival
Watch clay art demonstrations, enjoy refreshments and live music, and let your kids create art at this free annual event at the Eye of the Dog Art Center.
405 Valley View West Road
San Marcos, TX 78666

June
Texas Water Safari
Looking for a challenge? Take on the “World’s Toughest Canoe Race,” a 260-mile-long canoe and kayak race that starts in San Marcos’ Spring Lake and ends in the city of Seadrift on the Gulf Coast. Sign up to participate or cheer on the teams from the bank of the San Marcos River.
San Marcos, TX 78666

Juneteenth Celebrations
Mark the end of slavery in the United States at San Marcos’ own Juneteenth Celebrations. Catch the parade and stick around for a barbecue cook-off.
206 N C M Allen Parkway
San Marcos, TX 78666

September
SMTX Pride
Celebrate Pride, San Marcos style at the annual SMTX Pride. All are welcome to this stand against violence and discrimination towards LGBTQ people that is meant to foster awareness, unity, and support in the community.
San Marcos, TX 78666

Junior Texas Water Safari
Thinking about entering the Texas Water Safari? Get a feel for the experience at the Junior Texas Water Safari, a 16-mile adventure that offers plenty of fun for canoeists and kayakers looking to compete in the upcoming race.
San Marcos, TX 78666

SMTX Mermaid Festival
Mermaids take over San Marcos during the annual Mermaid Capital of Texas Fest! With mermaid themed activities taking place throughout the city, the primary events include the Downtown Mermaid Parade and Downtown Street Faire.
San Marcos, TX 78666

October
Sacred Springs Powwow
This annual tribute to the Native American culture that has been present in the San Marcos area for thousands of years includes demonstrations of traditional dances, as well as art and food.
201 San Marcos Springs Drive
San Marcos, TX 78666

November
Lost River Film Fest
There’s nothing quite like this annual film festival. A multi-day showcase of independent cinema, the festival mixes things up with live music, exhibitions, and a host of parties.
San Marcos, TX 78666

Veterans Day Parade
Remember all those who have served our country at the Veterans Day Parade in San Marcos.
San Marcos, TX 78666

CAF Veterans Dinner & 40’s Swing Band Hangar Dance
Swing dance to authentic music from the 1940’s among vintage World War II aircraft and you just might feel as if you’ve time traveled. Instead, you’re at this annual dance at the Commemorative Air Force CenTex Hangar meant to celebrate the men and women who have fought for our freedom.
1841 Airport Drive Building 2249
San Marcos, TX 78666

December
Sights & Sounds of Christmas
Ring in the holiday season in style with carnival rides, arts and crafts, festive treats, beautiful lights, and photos with Santa Claus himself. Taking place over eight evenings in early December, this is one holiday celebration you won’t want to miss.
206 N C M Allen Parkway
San Marcos, TX 78666