Two Days. One Legendary Texas Tradition.
A Tribute to South Texas Ranching
Every November, Kingsville pulls on its boots and celebrates the heritage that put it on the map. Ranch Hand Weekend is a two-day tribute to the South Texas ranching tradition — part festival, part concert, part once-a-year experience you won't find anywhere else in Texas. From a hearty cowboy breakfast on the grounds of the historic King Ranch to live music at the JK Northway Coliseum, Ranch Hand Weekend has something for every member of the family.
Proceeds from Ranch Hand Weekend benefit La Posada de Kingsville, the community's beloved holiday celebration held just weeks later in December.
The Weekend at a Glance
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Friday Evening — Community Christmas Tree Lighting
Kick off the weekend with the annual Community Christmas Tree Lighting in downtown Kingsville. Live music, festive atmosphere, and a celebration that bridges Thanksgiving and the holiday season all in one evening. Leashed pets welcome.
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Saturday Morning — Ranch Hand Breakfast at King Ranch®
This is the one. Once a year, visitors are invited to drive their own vehicles onto the King Ranch — the largest working ranch in the United States — for an authentic cowboy breakfast cooked and served outdoors. Fill your plate with a hearty ranch-style spread, watch team roping and old-time cow camp cooking demonstrations, listen to live music and storytelling, and take in the sweeping landscape of one of Texas's most iconic working ranches. Tickets are $10 and available online or at:
- King Ranch® Saddle Shop
- King Ranch® Visitors Center
- King Ranch® Museum
- Kingsville Visitors Center
- At the gate the morning of the event
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Saturday Day — Ranch Hand Festival
After breakfast, head downtown for the full-day Ranch Hand Festival. Local vendors, food, family activities, and a celebration of Texas ranching culture fill the streets of historic downtown Kingsville. Rain or shine — the festival goes on regardless of weather. Leashed pets are welcome at all outdoor festival events, and all events are ADA accessible. Activities include:
- Local vendor booths
- Food and drink (ID required for alcohol purchases)
- Face painting and Santa selfies for kids
- Archery
- Roundup Car Show by Texas Rides
- King Ranch Museum access
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Saturday Afternoon — Kingsville Symphony Orchestra
A classical interlude before the evening concert — the Kingsville Symphony Orchestra performs at TAMUK as part of the weekend's full lineup.
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Saturday Evening — Ranch Hand Concert
The weekend closes out with a full concert at the JK Northway Coliseum featuring regional and touring artists. The indoor venue means the show goes on rain or shine. Coolers are not permitted. Chairs are discouraged.
Get Concert Tickets
Plan Your Visit
- Parking & Shuttles
- Park-and-ride shuttle service is available for concert-goers — check ranchhandweekend.com closer to the event for shuttle stop locations.
- Stay in Kingsville
- Make a weekend of it. View lodging options at kingsvilletexas.com/stay.
- More Information
- howdy@cityofkingsville.com · ranchhandweekend.com
A City of Kingsville Tourism Department event. Ranch Hand Breakfast proceeds benefit La Posada de Kingsville.