10 Things To Do In East Texas This Weekend – August 9th

(Mix 93-1) Here we are, the final weekend of summer for a lot of students. The school routine begins sometime next week for the majority of East Texas students.

Hopefully, you've been getting the kids adjusted as the new school schedule approaches. Baths and showers at night, going to bed earlier, waking them up in the morning, and getting them ready for the bus or carpool to pick them up. It's an ordeal that I've lived through, and you'll live through it too, and all the "I don't want to get up's", believe me, you'll make it.

With school in mind, it's also that time to get the kids their school supplies, and if you're doing any back-to-school shopping this weekend, you'll be saving the tax because it's the annual Texas Tax Free Holiday weekend. Get out there, shop, and save that tax money.

If you've already completed your back-to-school shopping - congratulations!

Even if you've got shopping to do, you can pause for a time-out and take part in these fabulous East Texas events that are going on this weekend.

Here's a look at what's happening this weekend in East Texas.

For more information or to purchase tickets to listed ticketed events, click or tap on the event name to be redirected to their official page or website.

Texas Sales Tax Holiday

Friday - Sunday
retail locations and online retailers statewide

Get all of your necessary back-to-school supplies tax-free in Texas this weekend. Uniforms, backpacks, shoes, paper, crayons, coats, rulers, and all of the other things that are on that list!

Popsicles On The Playground

Saturday @ 8:30a
Old Bullard Rd - Tyler

Hosted by the Rice Elementary PTA: Anyone other parents ready for school to start? Is your family new to Rice this year? If you're a veteran Ranger, are you excited to see your friends again and play on our Rice playground??

If you've answered YES to any of these questions, we would LOVE to see your family during this playdate on the Rice playground, Sat., August 9th at 8:30 am! Free Popsicles for all of the kids who join us!

Sourdough Sandwich Bread Workshop

Saturday @ 10a
Chandler Hwy - Tyler

Join us at The Gathering Cup for a fun and delicious Sourdough Sandwich Bread Workshop! Learn how to make your own mouth-watering sourdough sandwich loaves from scratch. Our experienced baker, Katarina, will guide you through the process step by step with all materials provided for you to use and take home to bake your loaf. Get ready to impress your friends and family with your newfound culinary skills! Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to elevate your bread game. Space is limited, registration is required; this is a ticketed event.

Starr Struck Creations: Crafting Fun

Saturday 10a-12n
W Travis St - Marshall

Beat the heat and get creative with us at Starr Family Home! Drop by the Blake House to enjoy a variety of hands-on craft stations set up in the comfort of air conditioning.

Perfect for families looking for one last summer outing before school starts, this relaxed event offers something for all ages-make a craft or two, explore your artistic side, and enjoy a cool break from the Texas sun.

Come and go as you please-no reservations needed! All supplies provided while they last.
The event is complimentary, but house tours are available at the standard admission price.

End Of Summer Bash Car Show & Swap Meet

Saturday 10a-2p
N Trade Days Blvd - Canton

Time Machine Car Shows is headed to Canton!!! Join us Saturday, August 9th for this one-of-a-kind event!!!
SATURDAY, AUGUST 9TH, 2025
END OF SUMMER BASH CAR SHOW & LEWIS AUTO SWAP MEET
CANTON TRADE DAYS, CANTON, TX
REGISTRATION: 8-10AM
REGISTRATION FEE: $20.00
SHOW: 10AM-2PM
AWARDS: 1:30PM
Join us for this amazing show featuring 14 classes (28 Awards) and 14 Best of Show Awards!!
Lots of Parking and Shade!
Supports the Hazelwood Scholarship Benefit!

READ MORE --> Take The Family On A Drive-Thru Safari In East Texas

Back To School Bash

Saturday @ 11a
North St - Nacogdoches

Westminster Presbyterian Church will be giving away hoodies to children entering Pre-K through 5th grade. We would love for you and your family to join us for lunch, activities, and gifts.

Open Mic Night

Saturday @ 6p
N Main St - Quitman

Whether you’re a poet, singer, songwriter, storyteller, or just someone who loves a good vibe and great coffee, Open Mic Night at Honor is for you.
We’re opening up the floor for a night of creativity, connection, and community. Bring your voice, your guitar, your spoken word, or your favorite story. Or just come grab a drink, settle in, and cheer on some local talent.

Lufkin's Summer In The City 2025

Saturday 7p-9p
S Cotton Sq - Lufkin

What is Summer in the City? 🎶🌆

Get ready, Lufkin! Summer in the City 2025 is an exciting, family-friendly event series happening every Saturday from May 31st to August 9th at Cotton Square Park in Downtown Lufkin! 🎉 From live concerts and outdoor movie nights to interactive art experiences and family game nights, there’s something for everyone. Whether you're a music lover, a movie buff, or just looking for a fun night out with family and friends, Summer in the City is the place to be! Best of all—most events are FREE!

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East Texas Poetry & Story Slam

Saturday 7p-9p
S Broadway Ave - Tyler

Join us for a night of powerful storytelling and moving poetry.
Fans are welcome to come listen as these artists take the stage and let their words come to life in the cozy atmosphere of the coffee house.
Don't miss out on this chance to connect with fellow writers and enthusiasts.

Shrek: The Musical

Friday through Sunday
E Whaley St - Longview

The Oscar-winning animation film is coming to life at the Longview Community Center. This is a ticketed event.