East Texas Plans? Here's What to Do This Weekend (July 19th)

(East Texas) East Texas, what are you doing this weekend?

I know, some of you will be mowing the lawn in the heat and humidity like I will be doing because it's not going to mow itself! Once that's done, you might even cool off with a jump in the pool afterwards, if you're fortunate enough to have one around.

Then, if you're fortunate enough not to have to do any yardwork, you might stay indoors to clean the house up some. Others might be taking their little athletes to a softball tournament or getting a game of pickleball in.

Others will be hanging with some friends and having a good time playing games and possibly grilling outdoors, and having a margarita or three.

You deserve this time. Have a great time doing whatever it is you decide to do.

A bunch of fun and unique events are happening around East Texas this weekend that you can be a part of and support your local community. Whether it's supporting the local community theater, a non-profit organization through a car show, or local businesses hosting special themed events.

Here's a look at what's happening this weekend in East Texas.

For more information or to purchase tickets to listed ticketed events, click or tap on the event name to be redirected to their official page or website.

Texas Shakespeare Festival

Thursday - Sunday
Henderson Blvd - Kilgore

Attend the Texas Shakespeare Festival for a captivating blend of Shakespearean classics and contemporary plays performed by world-class actors in the charming town of Kilgore. Experience the vibrant local culture, intimate theater setting, and the dynamic energy of live performances. It’s an unforgettable cultural adventure perfect for any theater enthusiast! This is a ticketed event that continues throughout the month of July with many scheduled performances. Check the site for show times.

Pirates & Mermaids Night @ Splash Kingdom

Friday 5p-8p
I-20 W - Canton

‍☠️ Ahoy, Canton! Friday Night Live sets sail July 18th with Pirates & Mermaids! ✨

From swashbuckling fun to under-the-sea sparkle, we’re bringing you a full evening of magic:
Live DJ vibes
‍♀️ Mermaid & Pirate appearances
Glitter Tattoos & Bracelet Making
⚓️ Walk the Plank challenge
Pirates of the Caribbean on the big screen
Fireworks to close the night!
Don’t miss it, matey!

There is an admission fee for this event.

Cars & Coffee

Saturday 8a-10:30a
Hwy. 31 E - Athens

Cars & Coffee 3rd Saturday in July. Prizes for the top 3 rides. Coffee and Breakfast are served on site.

Drive To Remember 10th Anniversary Car Show

Saturday 10-3p
Grand Blvd - Longview

Join us for our 10th Anniversary car show on July 19th, 10-3! All proceeds raised are donated to the East Texas Alzheimer’s Alliance. General admission is FREE, but we accept donations at the entrance. Many types of vehicles will be on display for the community to enjoy. Drive 2 Remember is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that started in 2016 to raise awareness for Alzheimer’s disease and support local care programs. Through our sponsors and generous participants, we have successfully helped local resources assist families impacted by Alzheimer’s.

Nacogdoches Summer Scavenger Hunt 2025

through the summer
S Lanana St - Nacogdoches

Nacogdoches Summer Scavenger Hunt is a collaborative event between the historic and cultural arts sites of Nacogdoches to encourage visitors to explore Nacogdoches and for residents to be tourists in their town! Tap the title for all the fun details and how to get started.

Pintwood Derby

Saturday @ 5:30p
S Broadway Ave - Tyler

Get ready to roll into one of the most high-octane, beer-fueled nights in Tyler — the 1st Annual Pintwood Derby is here!
We’re bringing the pinewood car races you remember and giving them a grown-up twist. Think tiny cars, big personalities, and even bigger bragging rights.

Tap the title for all the details on entry and how to be involved in the actual race. There is an entry to participate in the race.

This event is gonna be a wheely good time — so come sip, cheer, and maybe even take home a trophy.
Let’s race.

Treasures On Canvas

Wednesday - Sunday
N Broadway - Tyler

3rd Annual Art Exhibition featuring artwork inspired by the house & grounds at the Goodman-LeGrand Museum. Artists are welcome to come in for inspiration, create their artwork.

SpongeBob The Musical

Thursday thru Saturday
Gibson Rd - Athens

Plunge into this stunning all-singing, all-dancing, dynamic stage show! When the citizens of Bikini Bottom discover that a volcano will soon erupt and destroy their humble home, SpongeBob and his friends must come together to save the fate of their undersea world. With lives hanging in the balance and all hope lost, a most unexpected hero rises up. The power of optimism really can save the world!

The SpongeBob Musical is based on the beloved animated series. This is a ticketed event.

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Alice In Wonderland

Friday - Sunday
W Crawford St - Palestine

Palestine Civic Theater’s summer musical, Alice in Wonderland, will hit the stage of the Texas Theatre July 18-20 & July 25-27!
All tickets are general admission, and seating is first come, first served. Lobby doors open 1 hour prior to showtime. Tickets are available in advance, just tap the title for more information.