Things To Do in Fredericksburg, TX in July

Celebrate the Fourth of July

Celebrate the Fourth of July in Fredericksburg with a classic all-American tradition. As we honor 250 years of our nation’s independence, nearly 100 festively decorated floats will make their way down Main Street, followed by a concert at Marktplatz.

The parade and concert are just part of Fredericksburg’s Independence Day festivities. Enjoy live music, community gatherings, and fireworks over the Hill Country.

A yellow car driving down Main Street and people waving American flags during the 4th of July Parade in Fredericksburg, TX

Main Street Fourth of July Parade

Enjoy BBQ

Fredericksburg has no shortage of delicious restaurants offering a variety of cuisines, but nothing says summer quite like a big plate of tasty BBQ.

Fredericksburg is home to some of the best BBQ restaurants around, where you’ll find favorites like slow-smoked brisket, sausage, ribs, turkey, chicken, and more. Each locally owned and operated BBQ joint here has its own claim to fame. Plan a BBQ crawl during your July visit to Fredericksburg and discover your new favorite.

People gathered at tables at Junebug's BBQ listening to a band performing on stage

Junebug's Barbecue

Spend Time Outdoors

Early mornings and evenings in July are perfect for getting outside in Fredericksburg, with plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors. Plus, it leaves plenty of time to enjoy indoor activities in the afternoon.

Enjoy Live Horse Racing

There are two weekends in July where you can enjoy live horse racing in Fredericksburg. Head to the track at the Gillespie County Fairgrounds on July 4-5 and July 18-19 for live Quarter Horse and Thoroughbred racing. This unique family-friendly summer tradition features pari-mutuel betting, grandstand seating, and classic concessions. Pick your favorites for each race, as well as trials and futurities.

Cool Off at a Pool

In addition to great pools at Fredericksburg's hotels and vacation rentals, the city has two public outdoor swimming pools and a splash pad for summer fun in the sun. Check out our guide to swimming in Fredericksburg for more details about these facilities.

Pick Peaches

July is typically peak peach season in Fredericksburg and Gillespie County, one of the largest peach-producing areas in the state. You can enjoy juicy peaches at orchards and roadside stands throughout the area, or you can also join in with a peach-picking experience, then spend the evening enjoying the literal fruits of your labor.

Insider's Tip: Many local peach orchards serve peach ice cream in the summer - the perfect summer treat!

Visit Old Tunnel State Park

Enjoy hiking, bird-watching, and wildlife viewing on the half-mile nature trail at Old Tunnel State Park. This old railroad tunnel is a seasonal home to millions of Mexican free-tailed bats. In the warmer summer months, the bats emerge earlier in the evening, when the sky is still light, creating one of the most memorable wildlife sights in the Hill Country. Tickets are required for bat viewing and can be purchased on the Texas State Parks website.

Old Tunnel State Park

Experience Fredericksburg Arts & Culture

Tour Art Galleries

Make time for Fredericksburg’s art galleries on your next visit and experience some of the town’s most inspiring attractions. Galleries along Main Street and the surrounding blocks showcase everything from traditional Western and landscape paintings to contemporary sculptures and mixed media. Stroll from gallery to gallery and take in the town’s creative energy, browsing for a unique souvenir or simply wandering with curiosity.

Insider's Tip: Strolling through art galleries downtown pairs well with an afternoon of shopping along Main Street or exploring creative, locally made goods in the Warehouse District.

Explore Museums & History

Fredericksburg’s history dates back to its founding in 1846, when the first German settlers arrived in the Texas Hill Country. Over more than 175 years, the area has been home to several figures who have helped shape world history. Learn more about this history on your next trip by visiting local museums. Choose from indoor options like the National Museum of the Pacific War or primarily outdoor campuses like the Pioneer Museum.

Pioneer Museum

Plan Your Visit

Book your July trip to Fredericksburg with our trip-planning resources. Whether you visit for a long weekend or a midweek reprieve, a visit to Fredericksburg in July is sure to be a fun summer adventure, filled with charming sights, seasonal events, and plenty of ways to relax and explore.