Crisp morning air and the subtle transition from green to yellow, orange, and red announce autumn’s arrival in East Texas. While there are many ways you can enjoy the season in Texas’ gorgeous Pineywoods region, Palestine is the perfect place to appreciate fall’s beauty. Beyond exploring Davey Dogwood Park or fishing at a nearby lake, you can take on one of Texas’ most unique long-distance bike rides, experience one-of-a-kind festivals, and more. Plan your perfect fall getaway by checking out these amazing autumn adventures in Palestine.
The Award-Winning Tahwahkaro Distillery
Dark, flavorful, and smooth like a flowing river, Tahwahkaro Distillery’s spirits are world-renowned. Now you can taste them at the source in Palestine. Recently relocated from Grapevine to its new location in a former Coors distribution center, Tahwahkaro crafts its bourbon and whiskey using corn from Valley View, rye from Denton, malts from Fort Worth, and water from Palestine. Try them out for yourself at the distillery’s tasting room or stop by to catch a show in the indoor/outdoor music space or relax on the patio. Make sure to set some time aside for a behind-the-scenes tour of the distillery, which is the perfect time to learn about the ins and outs of whiskey making.
Whether you’re a whiskey enthusiast or you want to savor a true taste of Texas, stop by Tahwahkaro Distillery.
Note: Tahwahkaro Distillery will open its doors in late October, so make sure you’re here to be one of the first to experience this award winner.
A Bike Ride Like No Other
Looking for your next endurance race to train for? Add The Camino 205 (Sept. 25 – 26) to your bike racing bucket list. This multi-distance, two-day race follows 35-, 70-, and 105-mile routes on gravel roads throughout the breathtaking Davy Crockett National Forest. If you want to test your mettle, opt for the 155- or 205-mile options over both days. Finish your ride back in Palestine and hang out for the Camino 205’s finisher’s festival that includes live music, great food, awesome giveaways, and more. No matter how far you pedal, you’re guaranteed an unparalleled adventure that’ll have you coming back for more.
An Event that Celebrates a Town Nearly as Old as Texas
Any birthday is a big deal. But 175 years? It doesn’t get more noteworthy than that. Celebrate this milestone at Palestine’s Heritage Celebration (Oct. 15 – 17), a festive affair held throughout town. It all starts with the opening ceremonies at Regan Park, where you’ll listen to live music and hear the story of the city’s founding and its history.
Starting Friday evening and into the next day, enjoy historic tours of some of Palestine’s coveted historic destinations with a little bit of flare which included night-time old jailhouse, cemetery and Howard House Museum tours. You can get free access to all of the tours offered all weekend by stopping by Palestine Visitor Center on Friday or Saturday.
Meanwhile, experience living history demonstrations like blacksmithing, spinning, and Dutch oven cooking that bring the past to the present before indulging in some sweet homemade ice cream which makes for a delicious treat. Then browse the farmers market before sticking around for cultural dance presentations and a group dance before the main event.
Come back the next day for a community-wide picnic in the park and as well as a historic church tour that You can also follow one of four scenic driving trails to see historic homes and the beauty of Davey Dogwood Park.
There’s much more fun where that came from, so make sure you’re here for a celebration of one of Texas’ oldest cities.
The Hottest Little Festival in Texas
Texas is known for its hot summers, but that’s not the kind of heat you’ll get at Palestine’s Hot Pepper Festival (Oct. 23). Instead of that afternoon sizzle, we’re talking about the kind of spice that’ll have your tastebuds feeling like they’re walking across hot coals. A true celebration of peppery heat, the festival kicks off with a parade starting at the Anderson County Courthouse and continues with a Chili Appreciation Society International-sanctioned cook-off with hot sauce and jalapeno eating contests, the Saucy Queens Lolly Lick-a-thon, and live music all day long. There are even arts and crafts and a special play area for kids. Whether you’re competing in an eating contest or you’re just taking in all the fun, you’ll see first-hand why this is the Hottest Little Festival in Texas.
Boot Stompin’ Texas Country Music
If you’re a country music fan, you’ve got to be here for the Wiggy Thump Festival (Oct. 30). Held at the Anderson County Youth Livestock Pavilion, the concert features some of the top names in Texas country music headlined by Palestine’s own Whiskey Myers. This year’s edition also stars honky-tonk legend Mark Chesnutt and Houston outfit the Chad Cooke Band. The festival is BYOB, so you can bring your own drinks along with cash to purchase tickets and food.
Autumn’s cooler air and its many magnificent colors are reason enough to visit Palestine this fall, but the destination’s one-of-a-kind events make it even more compelling. Discover all this East Texas town has to offer and plan your visit here.