Every October, the Texas Historical Commission (THC) invites Texans to step into the past through a statewide celebration of Archeology Month. With a full Calendar and Map of Events, the THC encourages museums, historic sites, and community partners across the state to open their doors, roll up their sleeves, and offer hands‑on experiences that bring Texas history to life. From archeology fairs and demonstrations to walking tours, exhibits, and living‑history programs, October becomes a month where stories buried in the ground — and stories carried through generations — rise to the surface.
Living History Days: Texas on the Edge of an Expanding Nation
📍 Fort Griffin State Historic Site 📅 October 9–10, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
Visitors can celebrate America’s 250th by stepping back into 1876, when Texas stood at the edge of a rapidly expanding nation. Fort Griffin’s annual living‑history weekend honors the Centennial with frontier demonstrations, cavalry and artillery drills, longhorn cattle, chuckwagons, cowboy poetry, and even the legendary Army Camel Corps. Friday offers a free, immersive educational experience for school and homeschool groups, while Saturday’s public day adds food trucks, live music, and Centennial‑era games that make history feel close enough to touch.
3rd Annual El Camino Real Day
📍 Presidio La Bahía 📅 October 17, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Travel the storied El Camino Real to Presidio La Bahía for a vivid look at the dramatic events of 1812. Through presentations and living‑history demonstrations, guests can explore the Gutiérrez‑Magee Expedition and the Republican Army of the North’s brief occupation of the fort. In honor of Archeology Month, visitors can also try their hand at making a pinch pot, connecting modern Texans to ancient traditions that shaped the region.
Fall Fandango 2026
📍 San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site 📅 October 24, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
The season’s festivities continue at the San Jacinto Battleground, where families can gather for a lively fandango inspired by the social traditions of the 1830s Texas frontier. Living‑history activities, period saloon games, heritage artisans, reenactors, market vendors, and food trucks create a spirited celebration of community — just as early Texans once did.
Sweet Treats, Spooky Tales, and Seasonal Fun
October also brings a playful side to THC sites across the state. Visitors can enjoy ghostly stories, local lore, and programs featuring nature’s creepiest critters. These Halloween‑themed events offer a fun, family‑friendly way to explore the mysteries of Texas history while embracing the spirit of the season.
