Exciting January Events in Texas

Every time we begin a new year, we seem to have a fresh perspective and are full of optimism. In somewhat of that ‘new year’ vein, the year’s first month is packed with a wide array of events in Texas. Some of these events align with the ‘resolution’ theme of New Year’s, especially the numerous running events held throughout the state. Others, including boat shows, capitalize on their target audience’s ‘off-season’ to showcase fresh products. Consequently, a visit to Texas in January offers a fantastic opportunity to kick off the new year with fun and interesting activities.

Running and Walking Events

Running events are primary activities held across Texas as the new year begins. However, these events vary greatly in size and scope. Regardless of distance, purpose, or location, each running event provides a unique experience. In fact, one of Texas’ most distinctive running events occurs every January: the World’s Longest Causeway Run and Wellness Walk. This event takes place on the Queen Isabella Memorial Bridge, which spans the Lower Laguna Madre Bay between Port Isabel and South Padre Island. Due to its extreme southern location, participants often enjoy a respite from winter weather while crossing one of Texas’ most iconic bridges on foot.

Additionally, two of Texas’ largest running events occur in January. The Chevron Houston Marathon stands out as the state’s largest marathon, featuring a 5K and half-marathon for those not quite ready for a full marathon. Meanwhile, in Austin, the 3M Half-Marathon & Relay attracts numerous participants and is one of the state’s biggest road racing events.

Football

Running isn’t the only sport that takes center stage in Texas during January. In fact, the new year often begins with the college football season nearing its end. Notably, one of the final college football games of the season is the renowned Cotton Bowl game, held each January.

Other Outdoor Events

Although Texas is a southern state, the arrival of Old Man Winter often brings cooler weather to much of the Lone Star State during January and February. Therefore, many outdoor enthusiasts lean toward indoor activities during inclement weather periods. Event organizers across the state compensate for this by staging fishing and boating shows in the heart of winter. Some of the largest annual boat and fishing exhibitions, particularly in Austin, Houston, and San Antonio, occur this month.

Notable Fairs and Festivals

Beyond running, football, or fishing, Texas showcases a plethora of unique events in January. The fairs, festivals, and activities slated for this month across the Lone Star State are diverse and vibrant, though only a few stand out prominently.

San Antonio is a beloved destination for Texas tourists, with January featuring the unique San Antonio Riverwalk Mud Festival. Each year, the world-famous Riverwalk section of the San Antonio River is drained for maintenance purposes. To celebrate this annual cleaning ritual, the city organizes the Mud Festival, which draws over 15,000 attendees to participate in various ‘muddy’ events, such as the Mud Pie Ball and the Mud King and Queen contest.

George Washington Birthday Celebration

In Laredo, a rather unusual event takes place every January: the George Washington Birthday Celebration. For more than a century, Laredo has hosted the largest celebration of this kind in the nation. Originally initiated in 1898 to express allegiance to the United States, this event now attracts nearly half a million visitors annually to this border town. Spanning from mid-January through mid-February, Laredo’s celebration of George Washington’s birthday is certainly an experience every Texas visitor should enjoy at least once.