Whether you're traveling to Texas or live there already, you might be interested in attending a local festival. There are quite a wide variety of options to choose from throughout the state. Of course, due to COVID-19 restrictions, you might want to exercise proper precautions like wearing a mask, using hand sanitizer, and maintaining proper social distancing. In this article, Kevin Dalby, UT Austin professor, and cancer drug researcher, shares five of his all-time favorite festivals and why you should attend them this year.

Austin Film Festival

Since 1994, the Austin Film Festival has consistently been one of the best events in the state to see local films. What makes film festivals so unique is that you get to see films that haven't yet and often may not ever be shown in a regular movie theater. People from all walks of life, from young creatives, just starting, all the way up to accomplished professionals, all come together every year to show off the incredible work that they've put together. Last year the festival was entirely virtual, but it's back doing some in-person shows this year.

Amarillo WRCA World Championship Rodeo

The chances are that no matter where you go in the whole state, there's a rodeo being hosted somewhere. It's a Texas thing. To see the best of the best, though, you should head on down to Amarillo. Every November, the town is treated to the incredible WRCA World Championship Rodeo. Unlike the competition, riders will compete in events that go well beyond the standard bucking bronco, though, of course, that still happens as well. Competitors from all over the country come to participate. In 2021, the event will run from November 11th to the 14th.

Moontower Comedy Festival

If you've never been to a comedy show like the Moontower Comedy Festival, you're missing out. After experiencing the pandemic, everybody needs something to help them unwind and feel more positive about life. The comedy will let you do that in a way that nothing else will. With a fantastic lineup this year of people like Colin Mochrie and Brad Sherwood from "Who's Line Is It Anyway?" and Bob Saget (who needs no introduction), the number of laughs per minute here will be off the charts.

Texas Arts & Crafts Fair

The Hill Country Arts Foundation has consistently been hosting incredible art shows since it was established in 1959. Set against the gorgeous backdrop of the Guadalupe River, the Texas Arts & Crafts Fair is expected to draw over 5000 people this year. People from all over the state come to see over a hundred artists, experience gourmet food, live music, and participate in activities for all ages.

UtopiaFest

If you like camping and nature combined with music, then there's just about no better event the entire year than UtopiaFest. The eponymously-titled event of the same town hosts many activities that will give the whole family a weekend to remember. With group hikes, wilderness workshops, kid-centric activities, and a whole lot more, there's something for everybody going on here.

Texas is full of incredible events happening all year round. Whether you go to the state, what your interests are, or what time of year you visit, something is going on for everyone to enjoy.

About Kevin Dalby

Dr. Kevin Dalby is a professor of chemical biology and medicinal chemistry, currently working on cancer drug discovery. At the College of Pharmacy at The University of Texas, he examines the mechanisms of nature and cancer to develop new treatments and teaching and motivating students to conduct research. Dalby is optimistic about the future of cancer treatments.