Annual Events

Alpine offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality. Throughout the year our annual events cater to tons of interests. No matter what kind of fun you are looking for we have something for you and there is always a party!

The Alpine Visitor Center also keeps up on where you can hear great music, attend a book signing, take in a game, what’s fun for kids, etc. You can pickup a Weekly Events page there or find those events in the online calendar https://visitalpinetx.com/events-calendar/

2025 EVENTS

February 20-22nd
Lonestar Cowboy Poetry Gathering

What was once known as the Alpine Cowboy Poetry Gathering has now evolved into the Lonestar Cowboy Poetry Gathering, and it continues to be a highlight for visitors wanting a taste of authentic Western culture.

Held annually on the 3rd weekend of February the Lonestar Cowboy Poetry Gathering is a vibrant and engaging event that welcomes everyone, from seasoned poets to curious newcomers. Whether you’re a fan of classic cowboy ballads or prefer more contemporary takes on Western life, you’re sure to find something to enjoy.

This is a a celebration of storytelling as poets share tales of ranch life, cattle drives, love and loss, humor and hardship – all woven into rhythmic verses that paint vivid pictures in your mind.

For more information and tickets go to https://lonestarcowboypoetry.com/

April 5-13th
“Next to Normal” is the spring production from the Sul Ross Theatre Department.

In this contemporary rock musical, a suburban household copes with crisis and the unpredictability of a mother’s worsening bipolar disorder. Book and lyrics by Brain Yorkey. Music by Tom Kitt. Winner of the 2010 Pulitzer Prize for Drama and three Tony Awards, including Best Score and best Orchestration.

Sul Ross Theatre Department has evening shows on the weekend and Sunday matinees. For tickets go to https://www.facebook.com/SulRossTheatre

April 18-20th
Alpine Gem and Mineral Show

The Big Bend Region cradles a treasure trove of geological wonders. And every year, these hidden gems come to light at the Alpine Gem and Mineral Show. If you’re a rockhound, a jewelry enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of the natural world, this show is a must-see.

The Alpine Civic Center is filled with sparkling crystals, vibrant gemstones, and fascinating fossils. This isn’t just a place to shop, though. The Alpine Gem and Mineral Show is an educational experience. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about different minerals from the dozen of vendors who are passionate experts and eager to share their knowledge. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064703045076


April 25 & 26th
Spirits of the West- Wine, Spirits & Brews Fest

Get ready for a weekend of spirited celebration at the 4th Annual Spirits of the West Festival, taking place April 25th and 26th at the Brewster Country Courthouse.


This festival celebrates everything Texan! Bringing together the best wine, spirits, and brews in the state. Plus local and regional food vendors featuring West Texas flare.
The celebration also includes art vendors and tons of LIVE music! You can purchase tickets in advance or at the gate https://www.spiritsfestwtx.com/

April 26th
Alpine Dark Skies Celebration

Stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts are invited to celebrate the wonders of the night sky in the Greater Big Bend International Dark Sky Reserve!

Saturday morning at the Alpine Visitor Center you can learn about light pollution and how it effects animals. And see how you can help make it better! With examples of proper outdoor lighting fixtures and info on the City of Alpine Light Ordinance.
All this while we celebrate Earth Day with Keep Alpine Beautiful! There will games and activities for kids of all ages. And you can shop the Alpine Farmers Market vendors.

The night ends with an incredible Star Party at the Kokernot Park Soccer Field in Alpine led by McDonald Observatory Dark Sky Expert Stephen Hummel.

All the events are FREE and open to the public so you do not need a ticket to attend.

May-July
Alpine Cowboys Baseball

The crack of the bat, the roar of the crowd, the smell of freshly cut grass – it’s baseball season in Alpine. The 06 Cowboys won it all last year and will be coming back to defend their title of Pecos League Champions.

Taken 8/18/13 as a storm rolled in #2

Iconic Kokernot Field is steeped in history and charm with its stone walls, wooden grandstands, and intricate ironwork. Come see a game at the Texas Field of Dreams!
You can purchase tickets at the game. To see this seasons schedule go to https://alpine.pecosleague.com/cowboys.asp?page=11&team=4&year=2025

July 4th
Alpine 4th of July Celebration

Get ready to celebrate America’s independence in Alpine, Texas! Our annual 4th of July celebration is packed with family-friendly fun and patriotic festivities.
A huge parade, vendor booths and live music at the Brewster County Courthouse, and Cowboys baseball at Kokernot Field. The festivities end with FIREWORKS!

July/August (weekends)
Theatre of the Big Bend

Enjoy a classic at the beautiful Kokernot Outdoor Theatre as Theatre of the Big Bend Presents Rodgers + Hammerstein’s CINDERELLA.
This Tony Award-winning Broadway musical delights audiences with its surprisingly contemporary take on the classic tale. Opening July 11th the show will run for 4 weekends with performances on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.


To purchase tickets in advance follow Theatre of the Big Bend on Facebook and watch for ticket announcements https://www.facebook.com/TheatreOfTheBigBend

July 23-27th
Viva Big Bend

Held the last weekend of July, this festival brings together musicians from all over Texas and beyond for a weekend of unforgettable performances.

With over 60 shows in a variety of genres, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. From intimate acoustic sets to high-energy performances, the festival offers a diverse range of musical experiences.

One of the best things about Viva Big Bend is that it takes place in multiple locations throughout the Big Bend region. You’ll have the opportunity to explore all our charming towns, Alpine, Marfa, Marathon, Terlingua, Presidio and Fort Davis.



Grab your tickets, and get ready to experience the magic of Viva Big Bend! https://vivabigbend.com/

August 8 & 9th
Big Bend Ranch Rodeo

The annual Big Bend Ranch Rodeo draws ranchers, cowboys, and spectators alike to celebrate the skills, traditions, and sheer grit of the American West.

Participants, often representing working ranches from the surrounding region, compete in events that mirror the daily tasks of ranch life. Think team roping, steer wrestling, bronc riding, and wild cow milking.

In addition to the nightly competitions Big Bend Ranch Rodeo also hosts a youth rodeo on Saturday afternoon. All the proceeds from the rodeo go to support the Sul Ross State University Rodeo Team.

Tickets do not have to be purchased in advance. They are only sold at the gate at Sul Ross S.A.L.E. Arena. For more information go to https://www.bigbendranchrodeo.com/

September 18-20th
Trappings of Texas exhibit & Sale

39th Annual Trappings of Texas at the Museum of the Big Bend is the longest running annual exhibit and sale of contemporary Western art and custom cowboy gear in the country.

“Trappings,” in the cowboy vernacular, refers to the equipment and gear used in working with livestock. This exhibit goes beyond simply displaying these functional objects, it elevates them to works of art, showcasing the craftsmanship and ingenuity that went into their creation.

“Trappings of Texas” opening weekend is the first chance to purchase pieces from the show. The 3 days of events require tickets. You can get those on the Museum of the Big Bend website https://www.museumofthebigbend.com/

September 25-27th
Sul Ross State University Rodeo

Sul Ross is the birthplace of College Rodeo! Since being a founding member of the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association (NIRA) and Sul Ross has been a dominant force in college rodeo. With a remarkable record of seven national championships for the men’s team and two for the women.

Today, the Sul Ross State Rodeo team attracts talented student athletes from across the country. Each September, Alpine comes alive with the energy and excitement of the annual Sul Ross State Rodeo, which has consistently been the largest college rodeo in the country.

The Sul Ross State Rodeo program is more than just a team; it’s a symbol of the university’s commitment to preserving the cowboy heritage of the Big Bend region and to fostering the next generation of rodeo stars. Whether you’re a fan of rodeo or simply curious about Western culture, the Sul Ross State Rodeo is an event you won’t want to miss. Spectator tickets do not have to be purchased in advance. You pay at the gate of S.A.L.E. Arena.


October 3rd & 4th
Big Bend Bluegrass Festival

Now in it’s 4th year the Big Bend Bluegrass Festival brings together bluegrass enthusiasts from near and far to celebrate classic bluegrass music.

Some of the biggest names in bluegrass music take the stage during the 2 day festival at the Alpine Civic Center. It also offers opportunities to connect with fellow bluegrass lovers, participate in workshops, and jam with other musicians.

Whether you’re a seasoned bluegrass aficionado or simply curious to discover this captivating genre, the Big Bend Bluegrass Festival offers an unparalleled experience. Advance tickets are offered at a discount but are not required, you can also buy tickets at the door. To get ticket info and see this years lineup go to https://bigbendbluegrass.com/

October 17-20th
Big Bend Octane Fest


Attention car enthusiasts! Octane Fest celebrates all things automotive in the beautiful setting of the Big Bend Region. This includes scenic drives, a show and shine, and opportunities to connect with other enthusiasts.  

Hosted by Dave Durant at Stable Performance Cars the event is also a fundraiser for the Alpine Christian School.

If you’re interested in learning more about Octane Fest and registering to attend check out The Stable website: https://thestablealpine.com/octane-fest/

November 8 & 9th
Center for Big Bend Studies Annual Conference

Center for Big Bend Studies (CBBS) at Sul Ross State University hosts its annual conference each fall in Alpine. It brings together scholars, historians, archaeologists, and anyone with a passion for the region to share their research, insights, and discoveries.

Presentations cover a wide range of topics, from the region’s unique geological formations and diverse ecosystems to the rich cultural heritage of its indigenous peoples, early settlers, and ranching communities.

The CBBS Annual Conference isn’t just for academics. It welcomes anyone with an interest in learning more about the Big Bend. For more information and to register go to https://cbbs.sulross.edu/

November 21 & 22nd
Artwalk

Alpine is always brimming with artistic spirit and it truly comes alive during Artwalk. The annual street festival is always held the weekend before Thanksgiving right in the heart of Downtown Alpine, filled with galleries and public art!

Artwalk isn’t confined to traditional gallery spaces; it spills out onto the sidewalks, into courtyards, and even into unexpected corners of the town. So come wander from gallery to gallery, shop to shop, and pop-up space to pop-up space to take in all the local culture!

Music creates a fun and festive backdrop for the art stroll and food vendors offer tasty eats. Artwalk is brought to you by Alpine’s Gallery Night, a nonprofit that gives scholarships to local students and has funded many of the large murals in Alpine.

The festival is FREE to attend so tickets are needed. To get more info visit https://www.artwalkalpine.com/