Celebrate Texas: 3 Holidays Worth Marking on the Calendar
A few Texas-specific dates worth knowing, whether you've lived here your whole life or just moved to the area.
Texas has a handful of state-specific observances that don't get much attention outside the state but mean a fair amount to people who live here. A few of them fall in late winter and spring and are worth putting on the calendar, especially if you're newer to the area.
Texas Statehood Day — February 19
February 19 marks the anniversary of Texas formally joining the United States in 1846, a decade after the Republic of Texas declared independence. It's the quieter of the three dates here, but it closes out the story the other two start — independence, the battle that secured it, and finally statehood. Some local schools and historical groups mark it with short programs or displays, though it draws less public attention than March and April.
Texas Independence Day — March 2
March 2 marks the anniversary of the 1836 signing of the Texas Declaration of Independence, when delegates meeting at Washington-on-the-Brazos formally declared Texas a republic separate from Mexico. It's the broadest of the three dates here — less about a specific event and more a general marker of state pride, often observed with flag displays, local festivals, and visits to historic sites around the state. Schools across Texas typically spend some classroom time on the date, and a fair number of towns hold small local celebrations around it.
San Jacinto Day — April 21
April 21 commemorates the 1836 Battle of San Jacinto, the decisive battle that secured Texas independence from Mexico after a short but pivotal fight near present-day Houston-area waterways. The battle itself lasted well under an hour but effectively ended the Texas Revolution. It's often marked with reenactments, living-history demonstrations, and ceremonies for those able to visit the San Jacinto Monument and battleground site.
Why these dates matter locally
None of these are days off for most people, but they're a good excuse to notice the history behind a state that takes its identity seriously. Local event calendars, historical societies, and county offices are usually the best source for what's happening nearby around each date, since events and locations vary from year to year. If you're new to the area, checking in with Onalaska, Livingston, or your specific town's community calendar in the weeks leading up to each date is a good way to find out what's planned locally.
Frequently asked questions
Are these official state holidays?
Texas Statehood Day, Texas Independence Day, and San Jacinto Day are all recognized observances tied to Texas history.
Is there a specific event near Onalaska or Lake Livingston for these dates?
It varies year to year — local event listings and community calendars are the best source for what's happening nearby in a given year.
Why is a fencing company writing about Texas holidays?
We're a locally owned company, and these dates are part of the community we work in. It's a light change of pace from fence and gate topics, not a sales pitch.