8 Things Happening Across East Texas This Weekend – August 8
(East Texas) East Texas offers plenty of things to do this weekend, even as families prepare for the start of the 2026-27 school year. From Texas Tax-Free Weekend and farmers markets to air shows, live music, community festivals, and family activities, here's a roundup of events happening across the region.
For most East Texas parents, this weekend is all about getting the kids ready to go back to school. From shopping for school supplies to readjusting sleep schedules, school is once again the top priority as the first day approaches for many East Texas students.
It will remain seasonably hot and humid this weekend. This weekend's temperatures are expected to remain in the upper 90s, with a heat index closer to 100 degrees or higher once humidity is factored in. Although it is hot, there are still things happening throughout East Texas for us to participate in. Just remember to hydrate and wear sunscreen if you're going to be outdoors for any length of time.
Parents and kids will be enduring the heat radiating from the parking lot at a local retailer while doing some much-needed back-to-school shopping. From school supplies to shoes, backpacks, computers, uniforms, and more, all will be tax-free in Texas this weekend.
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.
Texas Tax Free Weekend
Friday through Sunday
all retailers statewide
The majority of school supplies and related items are tax-free in the state of Texas this weekend. To help parents save money on back-to-school items, many things on your child's school supply list can be purchased tax-free within limits on certain products. These tax-free items include backpacks, shoes, clothes, uniforms, supplies, electronics, and more. Check the Texas Comptroller's website for a full list of items and eligibility requirements for tax-free purchases this weekend.
United Dog Owners Group UKC Dog Show
Thursday through Sunday
100 Grand Blvd - Longview
Maude Cobb Activity Center is the host site for this dog show for terrier and herding breeds. These dogs will compete in different competitions and could be named Best In Show! There could be an admission fee to attend the show on site.
READ MORE --> See The Full List Of Items That Will Be Tax Free This Weekend In Texas
Longview Jaycees Trade Days
Saturday and Sunday
1123 Jaycee Dr - Longview
Buy, sell, trade, or swap during Longview Jaycees Trade Days at the Longview Convention Complex Exhibit Center. Vendors of all kinds will be on site looking to sell or make some kind of a deal! Come on out, shop, and find something you didn't know you really need.
Airplanes & Coffee Fly-In @ Sulphur Springs
Saturday 8:30a-1p
Sulphur Springs Municipal Airport
Airplanes & Coffee returns to Sulphur Springs Municipal Airport (KSLR) for the 5th year. Sulphur Springs has hosted some of our largest and most memorable events throughout the years. The event is expected to draw 150+ aircraft along with pilots and aviation enthusiasts from across Texas and beyond.
Whether you fly in or drive in, this FREE community event is the perfect opportunity to experience aviation up close. There will be live music, food trucks, discovery flights, and more.
At Airplanes & Coffee, our mission is simple: connect people with aviation. Whether you’re a lifelong pilot, thinking about learning to fly, or simply looking for a unique way to spend a Saturday morning with the family, we’d love to have you join us.
Back-To-School Bash
Saturday 9a-5p
11684 Barber Rd - Winona
The Back-To-School Bash Vendor Market is hosted by Stillwater RV Resort and looks to feature more than 200 vendors that are providing family fun and everything you need to kick off the school year right! Shop local and browse local vendors offering back-to-school items, clothing, shoes, accessories & handmade goods, and school supplies & more!
Bring the kids and enjoy a full day of fun in the sun! Families can also enjoy the pool, splash areas, water attractions, and kid-friendly activities. In addition to available food and treats.
Texas Country Music Hall Of Fame Weekend
Friday through Sunday
310 W Panola - Carthage
The Texas Country Music Hall of Fame in Carthage will be celebrating this weekend with guests and legendary country performers like Moe Bandy, David Frizzell, John Schneider, Clay Cooper, Dallas Wayne, Billie Jo, Linda Davis, and more. Saturday evening will feature a performance from 2026 inductee Allen Frizzell along with a special tribute to Don Williams.
There are activities, live music, and events scheduled Friday through Sunday.
A Celebration of Freedom East Texas Heroes
Saturday @ 11a
8000 First Monday Ln - Canton
America's Freedom Tribute, Global War on Terror Wall & Vietnam Wall (on A-Frames) & The Cost of Freedom traveling walls will be on display inside the pavilions on the First Monday Trade Day grounds.
Farmer's Markets
Shop local and support East Texas 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.
Saturday 8a-1p
101 W Front St - Mineola
Saturday 8a-12n
111 E Carnegie St - Winnsboro
Tyler - Rose City Farmer's Market
Saturday 8a-12n
221 S Broadway Ave - Tyler
Saturday 7a-12m
back side of Broadway Square Mall - Tyler
Saturday 9a-1p
813 W Spring St - Palestine
Saturday 7:30a-11:30a
105 W Cotton St - Longview
Tyler's World-Class Caldwell Zoo
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