March Events for Foodies
Our state is brimming with a bounty of flavors. This month, why not take advantage of events that allow you to sample Texas’ signature dishes? Sink your spoon into some classic creole shrimp gumbo in Grand Prairie. Or, shucks, enjoy fresh oysters in Fulton. With food-truck competitions, food festivals, and even a pickle parade, there are plenty of good reasons for you and your family to enjoy all the flavors of Texas at these 10 foodie events.
Central Texas
Turner Hall Annual Pork BBQ Fundraiser, March 1, Fredericksburg
Turner Hall was a staple of Fredericksburg for generations of Texans, from its construction in 1871 to its tragic destruction in a raging fire in 2016. The building had many incarnations over the years, from a German athletic club to a bowling alley to, most recently, a dance hall and wedding venue. You can support this historical gem’s recreation by purchasing a barbecue dinner with all the country fixin’s: potato salad, beans, bread, and dessert. Meals are $10 per plate. All proceeds go to the rehabilitation of Turner Hall.
The Texas Food Truck Showdown, March 28, Waco
Two things the Lone Star State loves: food and trucks. So it’s not surprising that we’re home to some of the best food trucks in the nation. Taste-test fare from the top mobile kitchens at this annual statewide competition. Spectators and snackers will be treated to music, a pop-up market, and a panel of celebrity judges who sure to entertain.
North Texas
Mansfield Pickle Parade & Palooza, March 13-14, Mansfield
If you’re in Mansfield, you might just find yourself in a pickle … parade. If you haven’t attended the world’s only pickle parade, 2020 is the year to start. Mansfield is the pickle capital of Texas, and it’s kind of a big dill. Crowds have enjoyed the sounds of Grammy award-winning musicians and local bands alike. Sign up for the 10K, 5K, or 1-mile races to get your blood pumping. Refresh your electrolytes with — you guessed it — pickles. Pro tip: Grab the Pickle Parade’s mascot, the Pickle Dude, for a social media-worthy selfie at this annual foodie event.
Big Mamou Cajun Festival, March 21-22, Grand Prairie
Grand Prairie is cooking up authentic Cajun food with a heaping tablespoon of bayou personality. Come get your fix of shrimp étouffée or gumbo and your pick from hundreds of pounds of crawfish. There will be zydeco music and dancing to boot. Come ready to party hearty.
Admission to Traders Village is free, but parking is $5.
South Texas
Fulton Oysterfest, March 5-8, Fulton
Oysters make a great case for the expression “it’s what’s on the inside that counts.” These homely mollusks are one of Texas’s most delicious naturally occurring sea snacks. Crack one (or 10) open for yourself at this foodie event that’s been put on by the Fulton Volunteer Fire Department annually for the past 41 years. Sign up for an oyster eating, shucking, or decorating contest — if you dare!
Thursday admission is $2. Friday through Sunday admission is $5 for everyone 12 and older. Active/retired military enter free.
Houston Seafood Fest, March 14, Houston
Seafood, eat food. You’ll be up to your gills in Houston’s ocean-based fare at this event in Peggy Park. More than 40 food vendors will offer everything from traditional fare to novel, inventive dishes. Crustacean lovers will want to scuttle right over to the Unlimited Crab Leg area. Come hungry.
East Texas
Nederland Heritage Festival Chili Cook-Off, March 14, Nederland
Do beans belong in chili? The debate may finally be settled at the Nederland Heritage Festival, a free annual event with a whole stew of activities for the family. Cheer on the parade down Nederland Avenue. Sign up for a washer tournament with a buddy. Collect some craft-made goods at the market and join the crawfish races before cozying up with a bowl of steaming chili.
Nacogdoches Farmers Market Spring Fling, March 28, Nacogdoches
The Nacogdoches Farmers Market is open every Saturday 9 a.m. to noon in the historic downtown “hitch lot.” But once a year, the Nacogdoches Public Library and the farmers market join forces for a spectacular foodie event that benefits local farmers and artists. Stock up on fresh produce, baked goods, honey, and jellies from local farmers. Then make some new friends at the petting zoo. Listen to live music, shop, and get to know community groups.
West Texas
Eat the Street El Paso, March 1, El Paso
Beep Beep! Trek down to Mesa Plaza for some serious chow from El Paso’s most beloved food trucks. Enjoy your meal to the tunes of a live performance by Gruv Crew. Kids will have a blast, too, playing games and getting their faces painted in the Kidz Zone. End the night on a sweet note with the most delicious desserts of the desert!
Pizza With Police, March 7, Amarillo
Have a doughlicious time getting to know the men and women of the Amarillo Police Department at Moondoggy’s Pizza & Pub, located downtown. Split a pie with local officers and savor some time to chat about the community together. Enjoy cornhole and giveaways, including the chance to win a Ring Doorbell.
Before you and the family hop in the car to attend one (or more) of these foodie events, is your ride ready to handle any spring storms that are brewing? Find out with this anatomy of a storm-ready vehicle.
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