Events
A Unique Coastal Celebration. Embrace the spirit of the Gulf Coast at the Barefoot Mardi Gras, a vibrant and laid-back twist on the traditional Mardi Gras celebration! Set along the beautiful beaches of Corpus Christi, this annual event brings the parade energy of Mardi Gras to the shore, where attendees trade beads for bare feet and enjoy a one-of-a-kind beachfront parade.
Each year since 1996, the Whooping Crane Festival in Port Aransas, Texas, has celebrated the annual return of the cranes to their wintering habitat at the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge.
The four-day event features renowned speakers, birding trips, boating trips, nature tours, photography workshops, an exhibit fair, and much more.
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April 17 - 19, 2026
Texas SandFest, held annually in Port A, is the largest native-sand sculpture competition in the USA, raising money for local non profit organizations and scholarships.
What began as a small local competition in 1997 has grown into an internationally recognized three-day family event that draws renowned sand sculptors and tens of thousands of visitors from around the world each year to Port Aransas.
April 22 - 26, 2026
For two decades, Corpus Christi has been recognized as the “Birdiest City in America” and offers a year-round haven for hundreds of bird species.
To celebrate, the annual Birdiest Festival in America is held every April in the Coastal Bend Region, bringing birders to the Gulf Coast to experience the amazing spring migration among other amazing events. If you love birds, nature, and the outdoors, this festival, is perfect for you.
The South Texas Botanical Gardens (8545 South Staples Street, Corpus Christi, TX, 78413) is the host site of the Birdiest Festival in America.
April 30-May 10, 2026
Arrggh, Matey! We're waving the Jolly Roger flag once again to bring you Rodeo Corpus Christi, concerts, carnival rides, and more.
There’s something for buccaneers of every age right here in the heart of Corpus Christi, Texas.
May 16, 2026
Every year since 1976, runners and fun-seekers alike grab their running shoes and converge in Corpus Christi, Texas to take on this beloved six-leg marathon. Beach to Bay has grown into one of the largest relay marathons in the United States.
This is a six-leg running event, both in relay and full marathon format for those who prefer to take on a challenge solo, that totals approximately 26.2 miles of the Gulf Coast beach, pavement (including the JFK Causeway!)
Beginning on the sands of North Padre Island, winding through Naval Air Station Corpus Christi, and ending at McCaughan Park along Corpus Christi’s scenic Shoreline Drive, the legs are roughly 4.4 miles each.
Always held on the third Saturday in May, or Armed Forces Day, Beach to Bay honors the men and women serving in our United States Military with sincere pride – a tradition founded by Captain John Butterfield back in the inaugural year of 1976.
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4th of July Festivities
North Padre Island
The Island Blast Fireworks Show is a premier annual 4th of July event on North Padre Island in Corpus Christi, typically beginning shortly after sunset (around 9 PM). Funded by donations, this popular, high-energy display is launched near 13403 Whitecap Blvd, offering great views from Whitecap Blvd, Billish Park, and local venues.
4th of July Festivities
Downtown CC
Mayor's Big Bang Celebration on the Corpus Christi Bayfront. Bring your friends and family and experience one of the best firework views in Texas as the fireworks light up the night sky, jam to live music, savor treats from delicious food trucks, and enjoy a variety of family-friendly activities.
This free event, held at Water's Edge Park, is open to all ages. Don't miss out on this exciting celebration.
July 9-12, 2026
The Deep Sea Roundup, the oldest fishing tournament on the Texas coast, is sponsored by Port Aransas Boatmen Inc. – an organization with an equally long and illustrious history.
Anglers of all ages and skill levels converge in Port Aransas for the Gulf Coast’s oldest fishing tournament featuring bay/surf, offshore, fly fishing, kayak, adult, and junior divisions. Kiddos love the legendary Piggy Perch contest and locks and visitors alike swap tall tales at weigh in.
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August 5-9, 2026
Texas Legends Billfish Tournament pioneered the concept of a video release format with points awarded for Blue Marlin, White Marlin, and Sailfish. It is unique in that once you are registered in the tournament, you may depart from any Texas port.
The Port Aransas weigh-in and awards allows fisherman easy access to the natural offshore structure and deep-water rigs for which this area is famous. Visit the official Texas Legends Billfish website for registration and schedule details.
August 2026 - TBD
The Texas Women Anglers Tournament takes place each August in Port Aransas. This women-only, family-run fishing tournament is known for its fun, high-energy atmosphere and strong sense of camaraderie among participants.
Supporting women has always been at the heart of the tournament’s mission. Proceeds originally benefited the Women’s Shelter of South Texas and now support The Purple Door, an organization that provides confidential, no-cost services to individuals affected by domestic or sexual violence.
September 19, 2026
Conquer the Coast (CTC) is an annual bike ride held by the United Corpus Christi Chamber Foundation.
Typically held on the 3rd Saturday of September, this event has remained a fan favorite since its inaugural 2004 ride. Catering to riders of all skill levels, CTC offers 3 ride options to accommodate both beginners and seasoned cyclists; 69 miles, 21 miles, & 10 miles.
September 25-27, 2026
The 2026 Celebration of Flight festival in Corpus Christi is scheduled for September 25-27, 2026, held at the Corpus Christi HawkWatch at Hazel Bazemore County Park.
This annual, family-friendly event celebrates the autumn hawk migration, featuring free activities, bird viewing, and educational workshops.
The festival traditionally runs during the peak migration period for Broad-winged Hawks, typically late September.
September 26, 2026
Enjoy a scenic run or walk on one of Corpus Christi International Airport's runways and explore the world of aviation, including up-close views of planes, trucks, special vehicles, and more!
A 1K Kids Fun Run will kick off the race, followed by an out-and-back 5K walk or run. All proceeds will benefit Wings of Texas, a local non-profit making the Coastal Bend a more inclusive place to live, work, play, and learn!
October 16-18, 2026
Texas Jazz Festival is the longest, largest free running festival in the world! The Texas Jazz Festival is a free event welcome to all ages. With three stages of live jazz music, incredible food and market vendors! Come experience a Jazz Fest like no other in TEXAS!
October 16-18th, 2026 at Heritage Park in Corpus Christi, TX Free Admission
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October 2026 - TBD
Surftoberfest 2026 in Corpus Christi, Texas, is expected to return in mid-to-late October, at Water Street Market and Executive Surf Club.
This coastal event features live music, over 50 craft beers, German-inspired food (schnitzel, pretzels), stein-holding contests, and local vendors. It's a free-admission, family-friendly event celebrating fall with a surf twist.
October 2026 - TBD
Sharkathon is a premier, non-profit catch-and-release fishing tournament held each year along the beaches of Padre Island National Seashore and Corpus Christi.
Built around conservation, the tournament uses digital photography to measure catches rather than harvesting fish, allowing anglers to compete while helping protect shark populations. The event includes divisions for sharks, redfish, and trout, and contributes to ongoing marine research and conservation efforts.
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October 24, 2026
Join up in the streets of downtown Corpus Christi from 3 pm to Midnight on October 24, 2026, as we celebrate the age old tradition of remembering and honoring deceased loved ones through music, dance, ofrendas, art, food, and fun!
November 2026 - TBD
Get ready for the ultimate craft beer celebration at the Corpus Christi Beer Festival at Heritage Park. Sample a wide range of brews, enjoy live music, food trucks, local vendors, and even free Family Art Time. Admission is free, and guests 21+ can purchase tasting tickets.
November 2026 - TBD
As a cornerstone of South Texas heritage, Kingsville has long been known for its deep connection to the land, livestock, and the hardworking spirit of the American cowboy. Ranch Hand Weekend shines a spotlight on this legacy, blending tradition and entertainment through live music, local food, family activities, and authentic western experiences. It is more than just a celebration -it's a tribute to the identity that makes Kingsville truly unique.
December 2026 - TBD
The La Posada Lighted Boat Parade is a major, two-night holiday tradition on North Padre Island, held in mid-December to support the U.S. Marines Toys for Tots program. Boats decorated with lights travel through the North Canals on Friday and South Canals on Saturday, with prime viewing at Doc's Seafood & Steaks and Marker 37.
December 2026
Merry Days by the Bay is a premier, month-long holiday celebration in downtown Corpus Christi, Texas, featuring the H-E-B Christmas Tree lighting, illuminated boat parades, festive markets, and, and coastal-themed decorations.
Held throughout December along the Bayfront and at Water's Edge Park, the event aims to boost holiday tourism with family-friendly activities.