Learn how Texas Independence Day got its start nearly 200 years ago, plus some of the more festive celebrations around the state in 2026.
Texas Independence Day is nearly upon us! March 2 marks the day the Republic of Texas declared its independence from Mexico, an event that happened almost two centuries ago.
Each year, Texans across the state show their support in gaining independence and living a life of freedom. From Texas baptismals to historical reenactments, the Lone Star State knows how to throw a festive celebration.
Dive into the early days of the Republic of Texas, and see how you can join in on some Texas Independence Day fun near you.
The history of Texas Independence Day
Texas Independence Day commemorates the date the Republic of Texas officially declared its independence from Mexico. The Republic of Texas was born on March 2, 1836, with the Texas Declaration of Independence signed at Washington-on-the-Brazos, which became “the birthplace of Texas.”
A few months earlier, the Consultation, a group of delegates set on creating an interim government of Texas, met in San Felipe de Austin. On November 7, 1835, the Consultation issued a “Declaration to the Public.” This declaration was the final straw against several decisions the Mexican government had made, including abolishing the Constitution, dissolving state legislatures, and disbanding state armies.
The Convention of 1836 met at Washington-on-the-Brazos on March 1, 1836. Convention President Richard Ellis formed a committee to draft the Declaration of Independence. Committee chairman George Childress drafted the majority of the declaration, with a free, independent Republic of Texas declared the following day, on March 2, 1836. A total of 59 delegates, representing the settlements in Texas, signed the declaration, offering their stamp of approval.
While the declaration was being signed, the Battle of the Alamo was still raging on. The 13-day siege ended with Mexican troops under General Antonio López de Santa Anna reclaiming the Alamo Mission. Texians fought off two attacks, but the Mexican army broke through on the third attack. This battle inspired additional Texians and Tejanos to join the Texian army, which ultimately defeated the Mexican Army on April 21, 1836, at the Battle of San Jacinto.
How to celebrate Texas Independence Day
Texas has a rich and proud history, so the state is not shy about honoring its independence. No matter where you are, you’re likely not too far from a celebration. Here are nine notable festivities to check out.
Texas Independence Day at the Dallas Farmers Market
One of the outcomes of Texas Independence Day is that we now have so many local, beloved Texas businesses to support. Dozens of those businesses will be on full display at the Dallas Farmers Market. Shop local across Texas artists, makers, ranchers, and farmers while live concerts from Courtney Istre and Jai White tickle your eardrums. Both days of the farmers market will also include crafting activities for children. And don’t forget to head out with a souvenir, customizing a Flea Style Texas cowboy hat or trucker hat.
When: Feb. 28, 9 a.m.–5 p.m., March 1, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Where: Dallas Farmers Market (920 S Harwood, Dallas, TX 75201)
Price: Free with additional purchases
Texas Independence Day Flag Retirement Ceremony at Luckenbach
Celebrating any form of independence involves a lot of merriment, hooting, and/or hollering, and Luckenbach, Texas, in Fredericksburg is putting on a big weekend party. Former Texas Rangers will lead a flag retirement ceremony, complete with displays of memorabilia, cannon firing, and a living camp. The Georgia Parker Swing Band and Doug Morland will be providing good tunes throughout the day. With no cover charge, it’s hard to beat the price.
When: Feb. 28, 12–5 p.m.
Where: 412 Luckenbach Town Loop, Fredericksburg, TX, 78624
Price: Free
Texas Independence Day Celebration at The Alamo
The Battle of the Alamo was happening alongside Texas’s declaration of independence, so it’s no surprise the site is also home to one of the state’s largest celebrations. The annual event features live music, living history demonstrations, and ceremonies that all honor Texas’s robust story. This year’s program is presented by the Alamo Mission Chapter of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas and will include student performances from a local school. Later in the week, on March 6 at 6 a.m., the Alamo will host the Dawn at the Alamo in remembrance of the soldiers who sacrificed their lives defending the historic area.
When: March 2, 12:30–3 p.m., March 6, 6 a.m.
Where: The Alamo (300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205)
Price: Free
Susanna Dickinson Museum Anniversary
Susanna Dickinson is often referred to as the “Messenger of the Alamo,” having brought the news of the Alamo’s fall to Sam Houston. Her home was restored and opened as a museum on March 2, 2010. The “rubble-rock” house has fun activities all throughout the year, but Texas Independence Day is special, as it’s both an anniversary and a birthday. The Susanna Dickinson Museum features annual celebrations, with elements ranging from Old West photo booths to personalized fabric flag-crafting stations.
When: March 2
Where: Susanna Dickinson Museum (411 E 5th St, Austin, TX 78701)
Price: Free
Montgomery Lone Star Flag Day + Texas Independence Day Celebration
Montgomery, the birthplace of the Texas flag, is so excited to celebrate Texas independence that it’s hosting several different events. March 2 is “Fly Your Texas Flag,” a way to showcase the city’s heritage and unite as a community. The following Saturday, March 7, the Downtown Historic District is hosting four events all under the theme of “Texas Forever. Montgomery Proud.” The celebration kicks off with a mayor’s reception, then moves into Lone Star 1st Saturday, the Lone Star Street Dance, and wraps up with bingo hosted by the Montgomery Lions Club. Be there B-4 someone else wins!
When: March 2 and 7
Where: Downtown Historic District, Montgomery, TX
Price: Free
Natural Grocers Sweepstakes
Natural Grocers has two dozen stores across the state and stocks nearly 100 Texas brands. Each year, the Texas stores host a Texas Independence Day Celebration, giving away freebies and offering discounts on the products made in Texas. All guests can get free reusable shopping bags and commemorative stickers, and there are contests with bigger prizes like coolers, e-bikes, and gift cards. The freebies and sweepstakes are only for a few days, but the discounts last throughout most of March. Stock up on your favorites so you have plenty of snacks for March Madness.
When: March 2–4
Where: Natural Grocers Across Texas
General Sam Houston’s Birthday Celebration
Sam Houston was born on the same day as Texas’s independence (albeit 43 years earlier). Huntsville has combined the two days into one big bash on March 2. The day begins with a coffee reception inside the Walker County Museum: Gibbs-Powell House before moving to the Oakwood Cemetery for an honoring of Sam Houston’s life, complete with a march to the man’s gravesite. This ceremony includes performances from Sam Houston State ROTC Color Guard and Rifle Team, live music, laying of wreaths, and a “Baptized a Texan” event. A post-ceremony BBQ luncheon features guest speakers and a toast to Texas.
When: March 2
Where: Walker County Museum: Gibbs Powell House (1228 11th St), Oakwood Cemetery (Sam Houston Memorial Dr and 9th St), and Sam Houston Memorial Museum (1402 19th St), Huntsville, TX
Price: Free
San Jacinto Texas Independence Fun Run
If you prefer your celebrations to be more athletic, lace up your running shoes for the San Jacinto Texas Independence Fun Run. The 15th edition of the race includes 10K, 5K, and 1K kids’ options and is chip-timed for the serious runners. The coolest element of the race is that you’re running on the battlefield where Texas declared its independence. You’ll walk away with a shirt and commemorative finisher medal, an excellent piece of hardware.
When: March 7, 7 a.m.
Where: San Jacinto Battleground (3523 Independence Pkwy, La Porte, TX 77571)
Price: Ranges from $25–$45
Pat Green: Texas Independence Day Celebration
Pat Green was born in San Antonio, grew up in Waco, and his “I Like Texas” song is used by the Texas Rangers baseball team, so he’s certainly familiar with Texas history. To celebrate Texas Independence Day, he’ll be rocking the stage at Brewster Street Icehouse in Corpus Christi. Snag general admission for $25 or get a group of friends together for an oyster table and enjoy some tasty snacks while you’re dancing to good tunes.
When: March 7, 8 p.m.
Where: Brewster Street Icehouse (1724 N. Tancahua, Corpus Christi, TX 78401)
Price: $25 for general admission, $250 for an oyster table
