This year is the 190th celebration of Texas’ independence, and North Texans who want to honor the day have multiple events to choose from this weekend and into March.
According to historians, on the first day of the Convention of 1836, the convention president, Richard Ellis, ordered that a declaration of independence be drafted. And on March 2, 1836, the independent Republic of Texas was officially declared and signed at Washington-on–the-Brazos.
Texans who want to celebrate can find everything from historic reenactments to chili cook-offs and live music.
Starting the weekend off, Longhorn fans can attend the Texas Independence Day Scholarship Banquet hosted by Texas Exes, a chapter of UT’s alumni association. The event will be Friday at 6 p.m. at the Fort Worth Club. Former TCU athletic director Chris Del Conte is the special guest speaker. He is the current director of athletics at UT Austin.
Also in Fort Worth, The Landmark Bar and Kitchen in Fort Worth is hosting the Big Texas Bash Texas Independence Day Party on Saturday, Feb. 28, from noon to 6 p.m. The event will have Texas country music, a mechanical bull contest and special Texas-themed drink and food menus.
The EECU Texas Independence Jam at Billy Bob’s Texas is March 8, though as of Thursday it was already sold out.
Grapevine’s United by the Vine is hosting the Taste of Texas Independence and Chili Cook-off on Saturday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., at Peace Plaza at 815 S. Main St. Proceeds from the event will go to the Grapevine Shield Foundation.
“This is the fifth annual event but first on Peace Plaza, and we’re so excited to celebrate Texas Independence Day in a much bigger way in Grapevine where we love to celebrate history,” said spokesperson Luann Chapman in a statement.
The GSF is a nonprofit organization that provides assistance to the family members of police officers and firefighters who are injured or killed in the line of duty.
“Everyone’s welcome to attend — to celebrate our history and enjoy some amazing chili and live music while helping raise money for the Grapevine Shield Foundation, heritage preservation and more.”
Admission is free and a $20 taste wristband is required for the chili cook-off. You can also check out the peach cobbler baking contest, watch the historical reenactments, bid in a silent auction and see live music performances featuring artists like Joey Green, Tyler Bond, Johnny Cooper and Bart Crow.
For those more interested in fitness, Grand Prairie is hosting the Texas Independence Day 5K, a race and celebration at The Epic on Sunday March 1, at 2960 Epic Place, from 7:30 a.m. to noon. Registration for adults is $40; veterans and first responders pay $25. Tickets include a free T-shirt and medal.
This story was originally published February 26, 2026 at 6:42 PM.
Fort Worth Star-Telegram
Fousia Abdullahi is a Fort Worth Star-Telegram news reporter who covers suburban cities including Southlake, Colleyville, Grapevine and Keller. She enjoys reading and attending local events. Send tips by email or phone.