Things To Do Year-Round in Tyler, TX
In This Article
Azalea & Spring Flower Trail
March to April
The city’s azaleas have been show-stopping since the first ones were planted in 1929. While there are marked trails throughout the city to see them, the most prominent are those through the Azalea District. This district alone consists of 950 historic homes, many dating back to the early 20th century. The trails officially begin at the Goodman-LeGrand House & Museum, but you can also begin the tour at Houston Street and South Broadway Avenue. Much of the trail can be enjoyed from your car, but there are sections in the Brick Street district worth seeing on foot; some homeowners even welcome guests into their yards for photo ops, such as the Pyron Garden at 212 W. Dobbs St.
Red Dirt BBQ Festival
May
If you love barbecue and music in a Texas-sized way, then this festival is a must. Featuring more than 20 of the state’s most celebrated barbecue joints alongside some of the biggest names in Texas and red-dirt music, this festival leaves attendees feeling full on every level. The 2026 musical lineup presented Hudson Westbrook, Aaron Watson, Tracy Byrd, Southall, Bottomland and Parker Ryan. Big names in local barbecue included All Smoke, No Mirrors BBQ of Paris, Texas; 4D’s Brisket Barn of Bullard, Texas; Sunbird Barbecue of Longview, Texas; and, of course, the historic Stanley’s Famous Pit Barbecue of Tyler.
Brick Street Revival
July
The inaugural Brick Street Revival singer-songwriter festival kicked off in downtown Tyler in 2026, celebrating authentic Texas country music in a unique, storytelling format. This two-night event at historic Liberty Hall invited select artists to share the intimate stories behind their songs.
East Texas State Fair
September
Arguably the most anticipated event of the year, the East Texas State Fair celebrates Tyler’s identity as a community rooted in local farming, family and culture. Beyond its signature rodeo and livestock shows, the fair features live demonstrations on bee pollination and dairy production, alongside a petting zoo, food vendors, a beer garden, live music and carnival rides.
Tyler Art Festival
September
Experience the city’s thriving art scene at this premier annual festival. Hosted at the Caldwell Arts Academy – a local arts magnet school – this one-day celebration invites visitors to shop original works by local creators, dive into hands-on artmaking and witness live demonstrations. Between the immersive photo ops and curated local eats, it’s a vibrant showcase of the community’s creative spirit.
Rose City Airfest
October
Hosted at the Historic Aviation Memorial Museum, the air festival invites attendees to truly “feel the thunder.” The event showcases dozens of legendary planes, such as World War II Warbirds, Russian MiGs and other rare vintage aircraft. More than just a walking tour, the festival features a diverse lineup of ground displays and aerial performances – with all proceeds benefiting Camp V, a nonprofit resource center for veterans.
The Texas Rose Festival
October
Held during the third week of October when the city’s roses are in full bloom, the festival celebrates the industry that established Tyler as the official Rose Capital of Texas. From the Rose Queen coronation and parade to the Queen’s Tea and garden tours, the entire city is abuzz with the excitement and glamour that reflects the strength and beauty of the rose.
Get to Know Tyler
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