The East Texas Weekend Preview — If you’re looking for fun things to do in East Texas this weekend, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s our rundown of some fun things happening around the area!

If you know of another event, or see an inaccuracy below, please let us know here.

THURSDAY, 11/12

Wildflower Poetry Society

When: 12pm -1:30pm
Where: Tyler Public Library

Share and connect with fellow poets at this monthly gathering on the second Thursday of each month, in the Makerspace.

Cocktails & Conversations

When: 5pm
Where: Whoops-A-Daisy Flower Co., Sulphur Springs

We’re rolling out the welcome mat at WHOOPS-A-DAISY Flower Co.! Join us for an evening of cocktails, delicious bites, good company, and a little flower power! Chamber members AND the public are invited! We’d love for everyone to stop by, mingle, and see what we’ve been blooming up downtown!

“You Have The Right To Remain Dead” - Mystery Dinner Theatre

When: 5pm
Where: The Young Audiences Community Theatre, Bullard

Don’t miss out on this exciting event. You Have The Right To Remain Dead, a murder mystery dinner theatre is weeks away! Come join us in Bullard. Thursday/Saturday/Sunday

Willie Nelson Tribute Concert

When: 7:30pm
Where: Blackhawk Creek Grill, Whitehouse

Willie is coming back to Blackhawk Creek Venue! If you heard him last year you know how true to Willie he sounds!

FRIDAY, 11/13

Academy Sports + Outdoors Grand Opening

When: 8am
Where: 2400 E End Blvd N, Marshall, TX 75670, United States

Line Up + Win: FREE mystery gift card giveaway (18 years and older) for the first 150 customers in line. $15,000 in total weekend prizes! All Day- FREE gift with Academy Credit Card application. While supplies last. - Demonstrations + Giveaways with Brooks, Crocs, CAT, Wolverine, and Muddy. 12 pm - 6 pm- FREE custom embroidery with purchase of an Academy private brand item (Limit 1 item per person. Must be 18 or older)

Santa’s Wonderland

When: 5pm
Where: Bass Pro Shops - Tyler, TX

Bass Pro Shops is making spirits bright this year! Join us for for FREE photos, activities, and the magic of Santa’s Wonderland from November 8 to December 24!

Justin Stagner Live Comedy

When: 7pm | 9pm
Where: Rose City Comedy, Tyler

Choose your performance when buying tickets. Ages 18+.

SATURDAY, 11/14

Strong Shall Stand 5K

When: 7:30am
Where: 1626 E Whaley St., Longview, TX

This is more than just a race — it’s a show of solidarity with the brave individuals who protect, serve, and heal others, often at great personal cost. A portion of the race proceeds benefits Operation True North, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization providing mental health services to veterans, active duty military, first responders, health care workers and their families.

Garage Games - The Master Tour

When: 7:45am-3pm
Where: 988 Old Kaufman Rd, Canton, TX, United States, Texas 75103

On November 14, CrossFit Van Zandt is hosting a stop on the Garage Games Masters Tour—a one-day functional fitness and CrossFit competition designed to test masters athletes and celebrate what they’re capable of. Athletes ages 30–75+ can compete in 5-year age divisions, with RX and Scaled options available across the age groups. Your performance contributes to the national Garage Games leaderboard, with top athletes earning a spot at the Master of the Masters Championship.

Community Donut Ride

When: 8am
Where: Ride Tyler

Join us for a leisurely, no-drop community ride! It’s the perfect way to explore, meet fellow riders, and enjoy a sweet treat and a relaxed morning on two wheels. All experience levels are welcome.

Lake-Scapes Annual Car Show

When: 8am
Where: 9721 TX-198 S., Mabank, TX, United States, Texas 75156

The Lake-Scapes Annual Car Show is back! Join us Saturday, November 14, for a morning of great cars, coffee, breakfast, and family fun.

Veterans Day Auto Show

When: 8am
Where: Gilmer Civic Center

Please join the Historic Upshur Museum and RG Car Show Production s in a Veterans Day Car Show.

49th Annual Edgewood Heritage Festival

When: 9am
Where: Heritage Park Museum of East Texas, Edgewood

This year is the Museum’s 50th! Established in 1976 with the Spradlin Log Cabin, we now have 20+ buildings. Join us in November to celebrate!

A-G Young Farmers Car Show

When: 9am
Where: 5921 FM 779 Alba, TX

Our first Alba-Golden Young Farmers Car Show is coming up November 14th, and we’re ready to see what y’all bring out!

Outdoor Yoga & Therapeutic Planting

When: 9am
Where: Downtown Longview

Join New Rhythms for a morning designed to help you slow down, reconnect with yourself, and make space for restoration through movement and creativity. Choose one experience or enjoy both, then spend some time exploring the downtown market!

Tyler Out of the Darkness Walk

When: 9am
Where: 455 Shiloh Rd, Tyler, TX 75703-3819, United States

Funds raised at the Out of the Darkness Tyler Walk directly support research, advocacy efforts, and educational programs in schools, workplaces, and communities across TX. Register today and you’re taking the first step to help save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide. It’s free, quick, and easy to make a real impact.

Reklaw Trade Days

When: 9am-3pm
Where: 140 W Main, Reklaw, TX

There is something for everyone at RTD - shopping, eating, yard games, photo ops and visiting with old and new friends. You’ll find 60-70 vendor booths and 2 stores and a concession stand offering antiques, collectibles, old fashioned candy and toys, crafts, woodwork, flea market finds, candles and soaps, repurposed and refurbished furniture, pretty much anything and everything

Heritage Syrup Festival

When: 9am-5pm
Where: Downtown Henderson and at Depot Museum

THE SWEETEST FESTIVAL IN EAST TEXAS | Each November, Henderson becomes the sweetest town in East Texas!

Pulled Glass Flower - Glass Blowing

When: 10am
Where: Art House Trinidad

Pick your color(s). Then add the color to a gather of molten glass. Melt the color and then pull and stretch the molten glass into a glass flower. No experience is needed. Your glass flower will be ready for pickup one week after your class. All materials are included. Limit 4 people per 2 hour class (each person receives approx. 20 minutes of individual instruction).

Forest Therapy

When: 10am-12pm
Where: Daingerfield State Park

Come find your inner peace before the holidays with this relaxing meditation session! Program Expectations: Program will consist of a calm and relaxing meditation session. Plan for a slow, quiet, and mindful walking/sitting as you are guided through this Japanese style of therapy.

ETX Market Fall 2026

When: 10am-2pm
Where: 222 E Tyler St, Longview, TX, United States, Texas 75601

An outdoor market in #downtownlongview where everyone belongs! Local makers, vintage, clothing, jewelry, artists, food trucks, and more!

November Artisan Walk on the Bowery

When: 10am-2pm
Where: The Bowery Winnsboro, Texas

Join us Saturday, November 14, for the Artisan Walk on the Bowery in downtown Winnsboro. Come browse the work of talented local artisans, discover unique handmade treasures, and enjoy a day exploring everything our downtown has to offer.

Forging Forward East Texas

When: 10am-4pm
Where: The Blade Bar, Edom

We will be giving back to Veterans and First Responders by offering a 2 day Bladesmithing Class free of charge to them. Please see event page for details to sign up!

Elijah’s Retreat Fall Festival

When: 11am-4pm
Where: 257 County Road 3110, Jacksonville, TX 75766-7827, United States

Join us for a day of family fun at Elijah’s Retreat’s Annual Fall Festival! Bring your family, invite your friends, and enjoy a beautiful fall day filled with exciting activities, delicious food, animals, and unforgettable memories — all while supporting families facing autism!

Indie Author Day

When: 11:30am-4pm
Where: Longview Public Library

Hear about personal experiences and get pro insight from an excellent panel of local East TX authors. Plus, there will be two topic workshops from accomplished authors and a library book spotlight that will help round out your writer’s knowledge. We will hold Indie Author Day in person at the library, AND virtually via FB Live on the library’s Facebook page. Be sure to leave comments and have questions planned for the event, because we have prize giveaways to give out to our active attendees!

Open Makerspace

When: 12pm
Where: Tyler Public Library

Children and families, stop by the Makerspace to make crafts, create art, and play games.

Snouts Doggy Daycare 1yr Anniversary

When: 12pm-2pm
Where: 3393 W. Grande Blvd, Tyler, TX

Snouts – FREE pup treats from Smallcakes + cookie decorating for the kiddos! Seven Brew – FREE drinks + pup cups! Dapper Tails – FREE nail trims! Rosey Posey Pottery – Free paw & nose print pottery! AND SO MUCH MORE!

Grand Opening - Living History Exhibit

When: 1pm-3pm
Where: Mission Dolores State Historic Site, San Augustine

Save the date! More than 60 years in the making, on November 14th from 1:00 to 3:00 pm Mission Dolores will unveil our new living history exhibit. Join us for speakers, a ribbon cutting, and tours. This event is free and open to the public. Come to Mission Dolores and take a step back in time to one of the earliest chapters in Texas history!

RPG Day - Meet & Greet

When: 2pm
Where: Dragon’s Nest, Kilgore

If you’re new to D&D or just looking for a RPG group, we have just the thing or you! Many meet‑and‑greets are designed to be low‑pressure — you can ask questions, make mistakes, and learn as you go. This is the best way to “meet” the game and other players before committing to a long campaign. On Saturday, November 14th at 4:00pm gather your party and join us for the RPG Day Meet and Greet!

East Texas Genealogical Society

When: 2pm-4pm
Where: Tyler Public Library

Check out the East Texas Genealogical Society for all who love history and genealogy. ETGS meets every second Saturday of the month in the library’s auditorium.

Teacher Appreciation & Fall Fest

When: 2pm-5pm
Where: Bill Dickason Chevrolet, Gladewater

Bill Dickason Chevrolet is excited to invite the Gladewater community to join us on November 14th from 2–5 PM for an afternoon of fun, food, prizes, and celebrating the people who make our community so special!

Baby Lock Demo Day

When: 4pm-6pm
Where: Sew Much Fun with Melissa, Tyler

Come and see what our newest Combo Sewing/Quilting/ Embroidery Machine, the Baby Lock Luna , can do!! Come and watch as we showcase the beautiful curved stitching on the Luna as we demo the a fun and festive Scalloped Bunting Banner. Sewing curves has never been easier then on the Luna.

Opening Reception of Threads & Treasures

When: 5:30pm
Where: Rose City Art Gallery and Gifts, Tyler

Discover a collection of handcrafted treasures celebrating creativity, craftsmanship, and individual style. From artful textiles to distinctive jewelry, Threads & Treasures brings together two talented artists whose unique creations are designed to inspire, uplift, and help you express what makes you uniquely you.

Tyler ISD Foundation Gala

When: 6pm
Where: Willow Brook CC, Tyler

Step aboard for an unforgettable evening celebrating 35 years of the Tyler ISD Foundation and the people who have helped open doors and create new destinations for Tyler ISD students and teachers. Inspired by the timeless elegance of rail travel and the grandeur of Grand Central Station, this year’s Gala invites guests to enjoy an evening of dinner, cocktails, live entertainment, casino games, auctions, and celebration—all while supporting opportunities that help Tyler ISD students thrive.

Be The Light - Bullard

When: 6pm
Where: Bullard Kid’s Park

A walkthrough luminary event. We are lighting up Bullard Kid’s Park for Foster Care and Adoption Awareness. Bring the kids! Experience this beautiful immersive display of lights! The Fostering Collective as well as other child care agencies and advocates will be available for questions or more information. *Weather permitting.

Big & Bright Stars Night Hike

When: 6:30pm
Where: Mission Tejas State Park, Grapeland

Come to Mission Tejas for an after-dark stargazing program! Come learn how to point out key stars and planets in our night sky. Learn how stars are formed and about the legendary figures that the constellations are named after! This program will be outdoors after dark and the viewing area is about half a mile from the parking area.

Forever Dolly

When: 7pm
Where: Serenade Range Concert Venue, Whitehouse

Join us for Forever Dolly, starring Rhonda Medina, for a sparkling celebration of Dolly Parton’s unforgettable music, humor, style, and heart. From Jolene and 9 to 5 to Coat of Many Colors and I Will Always Love You, it’s an evening made for singing along and celebrating the music we’ll love forever.

Justin Stagner Live Comedy

When: 7pm | 9pm
Where: Rose City Comedy, Tyler

Choose your performance when buying tickets. Ages 18+.

Bob Smiley Live Comedy

When: 7:30pm
Where: Cherokee Civic Theatre, Rusk

He returns to CCT! Comedian Bob Smiley brings over 27 years of experience, performing in theaters, churches, and festivals nationwide. With five comedy specials, including three on DryBar, and numerous podcast appearances, Bob is a recognized figure in the comedy scene. He created “The Adventures of Average Boy,” a celebrated series featured in Focus on the Family’s Clubhouse magazine and the award-winning podcast, both of which inspire kids and parents alike.

Next Stop Comedy

When: 7:30pm
Where: Mineola Beckham Hotel

Sick of your husband? Tired of your wife? Annoyed by your friends? Come listen to someone else blab for a bit! Scott Crisp - Headliner. Sri Raj - Feature

SUNDAY,11/15

Forging Forward East Texas

When: 10am-4pm
Where: The Blade Bar, Edom

We will be giving back to Veterans and First Responders by offering a 2 day Bladesmithing Class free of charge to them. Please see event page for details to sign up!

Dragsteer Dummy Roping Extravaganza

When: 1pm
Where: Trail to Christ Cowboy Church, Jacksonville

Books open at 1pm and Roping at 2pm. Rain or Shine!!! Event will be held in the church.

Art & Company

When: 1pm
Where: The Flying “S” Art Shack, Yantis

I’m hosting Art & Company at The Flying S Art Shack, and I’d love for you to join me! This is a FREE afternoon for artsy ladies to bring a project, get creative, and spend time together. Acrylic painting? Watercolors? Crochet? Diamond art? Rock painting? All projects welcome! Have something you’ve been meaning to finish—or an idea you’ve been wanting to try? Bring it along! We’ll work on our own projects, share tips and techniques, and hopefully make some new friends along the way. All skill levels are welcome.

Curious George: The Golden Meatball

When: 2pm
Where: UT Tyler Cowan Center

George and his friend Chef Pisgetti are ready to cook for a hungry crowd, but their audience is nowhere to be found, lured away by a speedier Meatballs-o-Matic machine. Determined to help his despairing friend, George goes on a mission to enter Chef in the Golden Meatball contest in Rome, learning on the way about the secret ingredient to cooking

Holiday Ceramic Tree

When: 2pm
Where: Lottie Bug Farms, Hawkins

This year, we’re offering two class dates with only 8 seats available per session—so don’t wait to grab your spot. Cost: $50 per person. Includes: one approx. 7-inch ceramic tree with base, electric cord, and bulb inserts. Participants will have guidance and instruction from a skilled artist leading the 2 hour class.

Ride & Dine

When: 3pm
Where: Ride Above Cowgirl, Palestine

An afternoon in the countryside, enjoying horses, trying something new, sharing some laughs, and gathering around the table for a delicious dinner. Maybe you’ve grown up around horses, or maybe you’ve always been curious but never had the opportunity. Either way, I’d love for you to come! You don’t have to be a cowgirl. You don’t need horse experience. Just come ready to enjoy yourself! We’d love to share this afternoon with you! Bring a friend or come on your own. There’s always room for another friend around our table

*All dates and information are subject to change. Contact us if there are changes to the schedule or if we left anything out

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