9 Family Friendly Events For You And The Family This Weekend – August 2nd

(East Texas) Unfortunately summer vacation season is coming to an end. There is still time to squeeze that last-minute vacation or weekend getaway in before the kids head back to school in just a couple of weeks or so.

Parents will soon be prepping the kids for a school schedule. Getting their baths and showers promptly and getting them to bed at a decent time while beginning to think about what they're going to wear the next day and eat for lunch.

Yes, it's going to be a struggle, but preparing for the big change now will make things easier when that first school bell rings later this month.

While you still have time, gather the family, even the family dog, for some close-to-home fun 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.

Canton First Monday Trade Days

through Sunday
First Monday Trade Days grounds - Canton

It is time to shop until you can't shop or walk anymore! The world's largest flea market is open for business, and vendors will spread out over 450 acres with their vintage goods for sale, along with homemade crafts, antiques, soaps, animals, clothing, and so much more. There's live entertainment and, of course, the festival food to satisfy your appetite. You'll find something you didn't realize you needed!

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.

Girls' Lock In

Friday @ 9p
Davis St - Gilmer

🔥GIRLS LOCK-IN IS ABOUT TO BE LIT!🔥
It’s an all-night takeover at Family Arcade 💅🎮💖
AUGUST 1 • 9PM–7AM
Games, pizza, ice cream, and nonstop fun! 🍕🍦🎉
🎟️ ONLY $30 — Girls ages 12–17
⚠️ SPOTS ARE LIMITED — SIGN UP EARLY OR MISS OUT!
903-680-1121
Grab your besties and get ready to party all night! 👯‍♀️💫

This is a ticketed event.

READ MORE --> The Old Farmer's Almanac Predicts Late Fall Arrival For East Texas

Dog Days Of Summer

Saturday 10a-12n
N 10th St - Longview

🐾🌞 Dive into fun at Dog Days of Summer! 🌞🐾
Help us celebrate the end of pool season with our friends at Longview Parks and Rec by bringing your four-legged friend out for a dip! From 10am to 12pm, bring your pups out to Ingram Pool to soak up the sun and have a tail-wagging time with other dogs and their owners. From wading in the shallow water to chasing tennis balls into the deep end, there's fun for all types and sizes!
The cost of admission is $3.00 per dog at the gate.

PLEASE NOTE: All dogs must have tags and proof of rabies vaccination. There will be a screening at the point of entry. No aggressive dogs or females in heat will be allowed for the safety of other guests.

This is a ticketed event.

Photography 101

Satruday 11a - 12n
State Park Road 16 - Tyler

Lights. Camera. ACTION!
Come out on a hike with a ranger to enhance your photography skills! We have cameras on us at all times, our cell phones. I am going to show you better ways to capture photos with some tips and tricks!

Beyblade Tournament

Saturday @ 12n
E Pine - Hallsville

Put your Beyblade skills to the test in this age divisional tournament. There is an entry fee to participate.

Back To School Block Party & Supplies Giveaway

Saturday 12n-4p
S Main St - Lindale

✨ Need School Supplies? We've Got You Covered!
Join us for our FREE School Supplies Giveaway
🖍️ Pencils, paper, crayons, folders, and more!
Come early—items are limited!

We will have a water slide
ETX Lemonade
face painting.. just to name a few

Summer Street Dance

Saturday @ 6:0p
E Tyler St - Canton

🎶 Get your groove on at the ultimate Summer Street Dance! 🎶
Mark your calendars for Saturday, August 2nd, because we're turning up the volume downtown! We're kicking off the good times at 6:30 PM with the high-energy sounds of Front Row Sinners, guaranteed to get your toes tapping. Then, at 8:30 PM, Finding Shade takes the stage to keep the party vibes going all night long!

Don't forget to grab your dancing shoes! And while you're at it, bring your own chair and cooler to set up your perfect spot. Feeling hungry from all that dancing? You can also grab a bite from one of our amazing downtown eateries to refuel.

It's going to be an unforgettable night of live music, dancing, and community fun. You won't want to miss it!

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!