Check Out These 16 Things Going On In East Texas

(East Texas) Now that summer is here, it's time to find some shade to cool off and relax, or a pool to jump into. Pools throughout East Texas have been shocked and chemicals added, turning that water crystal clear just in time for the big party! Be safe when hosting a pool party and keep an eye on everyone in the pool, especially the little ones, and make sure they're wearing a swimsuit color that can make them visible.

If the pool isn't your thing, maybe you'll be doing some work around the house or the yard. Maybe de-weeding the flowerbeds. We've received some rain this week, which the weeds just love! Maybe you'll just do some shopping at a local vendor market or tour the Parade of Homes in Tyler.

My wife and I enjoy touring the parade of homes every year. We get to see innovation, design, and what's new in home building. The tour offers inspiration for those who are looking to remodel or build new. As much as we would like to incorporate many of the things we see into our home, I'm not about to begin a remodel or refresh of what we have now! It'll have to wait until our next home, if we ever move.

Get our free mobile app

Plus, Saturday is Texas Free Fishing Day 2026. This is the only day you can fish in any public body of water in the Lone Star State without a fishing license or endorsement. It's part of the annual initiative by Texas Parks and Wildlife to get people out and introduced to fishing.

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

For more information or to purchase tickets for any listed ticketed event, click or tap the event name to go to its official page for tickets and additional details.

Fun Forest Pool Opens

Saturday @ 10a
900 N Glenwood Blvd - Tyler

The City of Tyler Parks and Recreation Department is giving residents a fun way to cool off with the opening of Fun Forest Pool. The pool's summer season will begin at noon on Saturday, June 6. Families now have a fun and affordable way to cool off this summer. There is an admission fee to swim at Fun Forest Pool.

Movies In The Parks

Saturday @ 8p
900 N Glenwood Blvd - Tyler

After a day of splashing around at Fun Forest Pool, end the day watching Lilo & Stitch on the big screen for free! Tyler Parks and Recreation is hosting the free Movies In The Park at Fun Forest Pool this month. Bring along your lawn chairs, blankets, and some snacks, and enjoy the movie for free!

Tyler Parade Of Homes

through June 14
various locations throughout Tyler and Smith County

The Tyler Area Builders Association has been busy creating some beautiful and stunning new homes in Tyler and throughout Smith County. These homes are on display and available for touring. Go on an inspiration tour and see the latest in design, technology, building, landscaping, and more for your home. There is an admission fee to participate in the tour.

Splash Day

Saturday 12n-6p
1400 N Tenth St - Longview

The City of Longview is ready to beat the heat by opening up Ingram Pool for the annual Splash Day! This day will kick off the 2026 pool season, where the community is invited to have some fun in the sun and cool water. There is a nominal admission fee.

Retro Car, Motorcycle, and Truck Show

Saturday @ 7a
Gilmer Civic Center - Gilmer

Stop by and check out all the classic cars that will be on display, along with motorcycles and trucks, in Gilmer. In addition to the car show, vendors will be on site, as well as food trucks and other activities.

Clays For A Cause

Saturday 8a-12:30p
8474 CR 485 - Tyler

Clays For A Cause is a fundraising event that will benefit East Texas families who are navigating pregnancy and infant loss. Teams are forming now, and your registration fee will help benefit this local nonprofit group.

Farmer's Markets

Purchase local and support local farmers. Farmers have been busy growing crops for you to enjoy. Shop local produce, homemade goods, products, and more at these East Texas farmers' markets.

Mineola

Saturday 8a-1p
101 W Front St - Mineola

Winnsboro

Saturday 8a-12n
111 E Carnegie St - Winnsboro

Garage Sale @ People's Church

Saturday 9a-1p
14055 E US Highway 79 - Jacksonville

This garage sale fundraiser is being held to support the community outreach ministries of Peoples Church. All proceeds from the sale will go toward helping meet practical needs within our local community through various outreach efforts, events, and ministry opportunities. From serving families in need to supporting community engagement initiatives, every purchase made helps us continue being the hands and feet of Jesus in our area. We are grateful for your support and partnership in making a meaningful impact on the lives of others.

Fish Tag Friend-zy

Saturday 9a-4p
5550 FM 2495 - Athens

This event is held on Texas Free Fishing Day, the first Saturday in June, and kicks off National Fishing and Boating Week. Grab a friend and fish for free all day! We will have a tagged catfish fishing event all day. Catch a tagged catfish and win a prize of your choice. Hourly drawings for summer pass packages as well! The event is for anglers of all ages; no fishing license required.

Southern Summer Sells

Saturday 9a-5p
14449 State Highway 155 S - Big Sandy

More than 150 vendors will be on site for you to do some shopping, where you can support local businesses and artisans. Boutiques, handmade goods, baked goods, specialty items, custom crafts, and more.

Longview Jaycee's Trade Days

Saturday 9a-4p
1123 Jaycee Dr - Longview

The Longview Jaycees Trade Days will be held at the Longview Convention Complex Exhibit Center. Vendors of all kinds come to buy, sell, trade, and swap. Admission and parking are free.

Family Fun Day

Saturday 10a-5p
349 PR 3410 - Big Sandy

The Family Fun Day and Vendor Market will be held at Pale Horse Ranch and will feature many activities for the kids, including fishing, petting zoo, bounce houses, horseback riding, pony rides, hay rides, and kid games. There will be vendors on site and food trucks, too. There is an admission fee to attend.

Saturdays On Main

Saturday @ 10a
825 W Spring St - Palestine

Every first Saturday, explore downtown Palestine with Saturdays on Main. Enjoy delicious cuisine, unique boutiques, hidden antiques, and special promotions. Take a self-guided walking tour to admire historic architecture, murals, and art sculptures. It’s a day filled with local flavors, vibrant art, and unique shopping.

Junebug Summer Fair

Saturday 11a-11p
1610 Fm 279 - Ben Wheeler

Junebug Fair 2026 will bring the community together for live art, music, food, and fun. From fire dancers and a Lyra artist to chalk art contests and pottery demonstrations, there's something for everyone. There will be art and craft vendors, a kids zone, live music, food, cocktails, and live demonstrations and performances.

Lufkin's Summer In The City 2026

Saturday 7p-10p
105 N 1st St - Lufkin

Summer in the City returns to Downtown Lufkin on Saturday evenings and will be full of music, movies, dancing, and community fun! The event will take place on Cotton Square. Food trucks and drink sales begin at 7 PM, and the featured event begins at 8 PM. This weekend, you can skate the night away. Let's Roll: Cotton Square Roller Skate Night