It was back in 1836 that 59 brave delegates from all parts of the Texas settlement met at Washington on the Brazos to make a formal declaration of independence from Mexico, thus proclaiming to the world that Texas was a sovereign nation.

Fast forward to 2019, and we’ve got a great line-up of places for you and yours to bravely commemorate and celebrate this historic event that Texans are so proud of. And, remember, everything really is bigger in Texas—including how we celebrate!

Austin

Downtown Austin’s TRACE and longtime award-winning Texas winery Messina Hof are combining forces to celebrate Texas Independence Day March 2. Messina Hof CEO and head winemaker Paul M. Bonarrigo will lead a tasting of the winery’s newly released 100% Texas-made wines. Complete with bites from TRACE, this is a totally Texas pairing you won’t want to miss. TRACE is conveniently located at the W Austin at the heart of the Capitol City’s bustling 2ND Street District.

Blanco

Head to Blanco for a fun-filled Texas Independence Day at Ben Milam Whiskey’s tasting room. There’ll be tastings, cocktails, BBQ and live music. Plus, all day there’ll be distillery tours where you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look with the most experienced master distiller in Texas, Marlene Holmes. Meet and greet with whiskey author Heather Greene and don’t miss the 1pm exclusive bourbon tasting. (The first 100 guests will be able to sample for free.) Shane Smith & the Saints take the stage 2–3:30pm, followed by Pat Byrne 4–5pm.

Statewide/Austin

Garrison Brothers Distillery, the first legal whiskey distillery in Texas, is celebrating Texas Independence Day in three Texas-sized ways. First, there’s the Bourbon Takeover of Texas is a five-day culinary showcase featuring exceptional talent in Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston San Antonio leading up to March 2. (The showcase is a prerequisite to participating in the Garrison Brothers Bourbon Brawl.)

The intriguingly-named Bourbon Brawl has 50 chefs and bartenders in those same five major cities as the Bourbon Takeover, serving limited-time, bourbon-infused creations to celebrate the holiday. Yes, that’s right: 10 restaurants/bars are participating in Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston and San Antonio! This Texas-sized statewide bartender contest has a $10,000 cash prize.

Last, but by no means least, you’ll love Liberations & Libations! This Texas Independence Day parade-watch day party in the heart of the Texas capital, Austin, features a Texan makers market, libations from Texan beverage-makers, and bourbon-infused brunch bites from Texan chefs. Plus, finalists in the Bourbon Brawl will be announced. Proceeds benefit the Texas Parks & Wildlife Foundation.

Where Texas Became Texas

In the mood to go to the source? Then check out the two days of admission-free family-friendly fun at Washington on the Brazos state historic site March 2nd and 3rd. From live music and food trucks to craft demonstrations and historic re-enactors, there is literally something for the whole family at the place “where Texas became Texas.”

Can’t make it this weekend? Then why not mark your calendars for the Washington on the Brazos State Park Association’s annual Sundown Social Saturday, April 27 at Rockin’ Star Ranch in Brenham.

With a 6pm start time, the event includes a gourmet steak dinner by a team of chuck wagon cookers led by Jimmy Detro, cocktails, a Kelly Willis & Bruce Robison concert and auctions filled with Texian treasures. All proceeds from this Texas-size party will benefit the Washington on the Brazos State Park Association and its educational programming and enhancement of the 293-acre park encompassing the Washington on the Brazos state historic site.

Cover photo: Texas Independence Day at Washington on the Brazos State Historic Site. Courtesy photo