Annual Parades: A Guide to the Best Brenham, TX Events

Let's start in town. Brenham loves a good march down the street, and you’ll find several big ones spread out throughout the year. Each one is packed with local flavor, history, and plenty of Texan pride. Let’s take a look at the can’t-miss parades you’ll want to catch during your visit.

1. Maifest Parade

The Maifest Parade takes place on the first weekend of May and is one of the oldest festivals in Texas. The streets fill with bright colors, music, and floats celebrating Brenham’s German heritage. You’ll see Senior and Junior Kings and Queens dressed in full regalia.

Past Maifest court outfits are also displayed around downtown and in the Heritage Museum. It’s a fun way to learn local history while enjoying a lively spring event.

2. Juneteenth Celebration

The Brenham Juneteenth Celebration honors the Emancipation of enslaved people and has grown into a joyful day of unity and community love. The parade features a royal court, marching bands, and creative floats.

Many households treat this weekend as a homecoming, gathering for the parade and picnic. The streets feel warm and welcoming, with neighbors greeting one another all morning long.

3. Washington County Fair Parade

The Washington County Fair Parade happens each September during the two-week fair. This fair is known as the oldest county fair in Texas. The parade is full of rodeo royalty, bands, horses, and groups from around the region.

It’s a great way to start a day at the fairgrounds and experience a true Texas tradition.

4. Brenham Homecoming Parade

The Homecoming Parade takes place each fall and highlights the High School’s sports teams. Students, family members, and alumni line the streets to cheer for the Cubs.

It’s upbeat, energetic, and has plenty of school pride. Travelers enjoy seeing how close-knit the Brenham community is.

5. Christmas Lighted Parade

The Christmas Lighted Parade is held during the first full weekend in December. Floats glow with lights, the marching band plays holiday music, and kids wave light-up toys as they wait for Santa.

It’s a simple and joyful way to enjoy the season, and downtown shops stay open so you can enjoy holiday shopping afterward.

If you’re up for a little adventure, the nearby towns around Brenham throw their own unforgettable parades throughout the year. It’s a great excuse to explore more of Washington County and join in on festivities that locals have loved for generations. Here are a few favorites just a short drive away.

6. Round Top 4th of July Parade

This lively July 4th parade in Round Top draws visitors from across the region. Expect decorated tractors, vintage cars, and patriotic music.

The parade is followed by small-town festivities and plenty of food.

7. Chappell Hill 4th of July Parade

Can’t make it to Round Top? That’s okay! Chappell Hill hosts a popular July 4th parade with classic floats and groups lining the streets early for good spots.

It’s upbeat, family-friendly, and a nice addition to a holiday weekend.

8. Teddy Bear Parade

During the Christmas season, Chappell Hill puts on its Teddy Bear Parade. Children bring their favorite stuffed animals while festive floats roll by.

It’s short, sweet, and perfect for the younger family members in your group.

Parade mornings in and around Brenham are easygoing and fun. These celebrations have a friendly feel that makes guests feel welcome the moment they arrive.

These simple things make a big difference during your visit. Many of these details come from long-standing area traditions that everyone looks forward to each year.

Parades mostly take place in the morning (except the Christmas Parade, which is at night), giving you time to enjoy breakfast at The Brenham Grill before walking to your spot along the route.
Groups often toss candy, glow bracelets, and small toys, which kids love collecting.
Marching bands are a regular part of the parade lineup, and some events include more than one.
Floats range from detailed paper creations to hay trailers decorated by the locals.
The atmosphere stays relaxed and upbeat, with no political themes. It's just neighbors and strangers gathering together.

These small details are part of what makes the parades stand out. They help create a comfortable and welcoming environment for all ages. No matter which event you attend, you’ll see how meaningful these traditions are to the community.

Staying at Ant Street Inn puts you just one block from downtown parade routes, making your morning welcoming and stress-free. You can enjoy a slow breakfast, grab the lawn chairs provided in each room, and walk straight to the festivities.

After the parade, you can explore shops, museums, and eateries that are just steps away. The inn offers a peaceful place to relax after a day filled with events, and it’s an ideal base for any trip to Brenham.

Book your stay at Ant Street Inn and enjoy the best parade weekends Washington County has to offer.

Your Guide to the Annual Parades In and Around Brenham

Parades in Brenham