Wooden Boat Festival
Craftsmanship on the Coast
Set sail into history at the Port Aransas Wooden Boat Festival, a three-day celebration of craftsmanship and coastal tradition held annually at Roberts Point Park. Established in 2014, this beloved family-friendly event draws boat lovers, artisans, and curious explorers alike to admire handcrafted kayaks, paddleboards, skiffs, sailboats—and the legendary Farley boats, a cherished piece of Port A’s maritime heritage.
One of the festival’s most popular experiences is the Family Boat Build, where teams of three to four families work together to construct a small wooden boat over two and a half days, then launch it on Sunday afternoon for everyone to cheer. Beyond the boats, the festival features a lively Coastal Market packed with food trucks, local artisans, craft vendors, and boat-kit sellers, plus extended offerings like live music, guest speakers, and hands-on demonstrations throughout the weekend.
Whether you’re a seasoned boat-builder, a curious newcomer, or simply seeking a fun coastal outing, the Wooden Boat Festival offers immersive activities and maritime nostalgia in a vibrant seaside setting.
Harvest Moon Regatta
Sail Your Way to Port A
Since 1987, the Harvest Moon Regatta has captivated sailors and spectators alike with its scenic 150-nautical-mile journey from Galveston to Port Aransas. Held under the glow of October’s full “harvest moon,” this offshore race spans two days and nights of exhilarating open-water sailing and camaraderie. Sanctioned by the Lakewood Yacht Club and open to all—from casual cruisers to hardcore racers—Harvest Moon welcomes a wide range of classes and skill levels, emphasizing competition, safety, and fun.
As the fleet sails into Port Aransas, the town bursts to life with celebrations. The event finale includes festivities like the Mt. Gay Rum Party, live music, and an awards ceremony honoring top finishers across fleets. Whether you’re competing, cheering the boats across the finish line at Roberts Point or the marina, or simply soaking in the festivities, the Harvest Moon Regatta offers a vibrant and unforgettable autumn experience on the Texas coast.
Sand Santa
Capture the Magic of the Season
Trade snow for sand and make your holiday season truly unforgettable with a visit to Sand Santa, Port Aransas’s coastal twist on a classic tradition. This larger-than-life sand sculpture, lovingly crafted by world-renowned sand artists, is the ultimate backdrop for your family’s holiday photos. On display all season long, Sand Santa blends artistry with island spirit, creating a one-of-a-kind festive attraction that delights visitors of all ages. Bring your camera, your crew, and your holiday cheer—Sand Santa is ready to make your Port A memories merry and bright!
New Year's Eve Fireworks
Ring in the New Year, Island Style!
Say goodbye to the old year and hello to new beginnings with a breathtaking fireworks show over the Gulf! Port Aransas lights up the sky in true island style, making New Year’s Eve an unforgettable coastal celebration. Whether you're ringing in the new year with family, friends, or someone special, there’s no better place to toast to 2026 than with your toes in the sand and fireworks bursting above the waves. Gather on the beach, bundle up (or don’t—it’s Port A!), and celebrate a fresh start under a sky full of sparkles.
Whooping Crane Festival
Preserving the Rare. Celebrating the Wild.
Witness one of nature’s most awe-inspiring sights as Whooping Cranes return to the Texas coast! Held annually in Port Aransas, the Whooping Crane Festival celebrates the only naturally occurring flock of these endangered birds found in the U.S.—right here in the Coastal Bend. Grab your binoculars and field guides and get ready for front-row views of these graceful giants, along with a dazzling variety of migratory birds that flock to the wetlands and shorelines of Mustang Island each winter.
The festival is packed with birding adventures by land and sea, expert-led tours, photography workshops, and inspiring talks by renowned ornithologists and wildlife experts. Whether you're a seasoned birder or just beginning your birdwatching journey, this unique event offers a rare opportunity to connect with nature, explore breathtaking habitats, and celebrate conservation in action—all while enjoying the wild, coastal charm of Port A.
Texas SandFest
Where Art Meets the Ocean
Get ready to dig into one of Port Aransas’s most iconic and awe-inspiring events—Texas SandFest! Each spring, this epic three-day festival transforms the beaches of Port A into a jaw-dropping outdoor art gallery featuring massive, mind-blowing sand sculptures created by world-renowned master sculptors, skilled amateurs, and inspired kids alike.
With more than 100,000 visitors attending annually, SandFest is more than a competition—it’s a full-blown beach celebration! Stroll the sandy lanes lined with live music, local food trucks, artisan jewelry, crafts, and sand sculpting lessons for all ages. Whether you're marveling at 10-foot masterpieces or trying your hand at building the ultimate castle, Texas SandFest is the perfect mix of coastal fun, family entertainment, and unforgettable artistry.
