Things to Do in Abilene This Month | Events and Attractions

Signature Events and Festivals

Wild Days

Wild Days at the Abilene Zoo presented by Whataburger is the ultimate family experience for an exciting Spring Break adventure! Kick off your spring vacation with non-stop family fun, featuring live interactive shows, Backstage Tours, keeper chats and Wild Access Tours. New this year, explore our wild zones featuring interactive experiences and activities for all ages. Visit the Explorer Outpost, sponsored by Lowe’s, where kids can build their own toy, and stop by Expedition Eats to grab a wild bite between adventures.

When: March 7 - March 15

Where: Abilene Zoo

Happy City Spring Break

Every morning from 10 AM to 12 PM during Happy City Spring Break kids can meet local community helpers and learn about the people and businesses that make the city thrive. Guests can also contribute to a collaborative "happy city" project using recyclables and art supplies, which will be open for participation until 3 PM.

When: March 10 - 14

Where: NCCIL

Outlaws & Legends Music Festival

Experience the Outlaws and Legends music festival at the Back Porch of Texas in Abilene, the state’s biggest one-stage event. Celebrated as Texas Regional Radio Music Awards’ “Festival of the Year” in 2021 and 2023, it features an impressive lineup across multiple genres. With a stunning Abilene backdrop, the festival delivers an unforgettable celebration of music and Texas spirit.

When: March 20 - 21

Where: Back Porch of Texas

Laps for Literacy

Lace up your shoes and help support the NCCIL during Laps for Literacy, for a free, family-friendly downtown walk. After the walk, keep the celebration going by signing up for the Seussapalooza After Party Fundraiser, featuring Dr. Seuss–themed games, art activities, a costume contest, and more colorful fun for all ages.

When: March 21

Where: National Center For Children's Illustrated Literature

A Mesquite Flavored Evening

Enjoy a lively evening of storytelling and music featuring local voices at A Mesquite Flavored Evening. Guests will hear everything from personal memories and historical tales to tall tales and poetry, along with music from Greg Young and Tony Barker, who share both their songs and the stories behind them. If you’ve never experienced a storytelling event, this is the perfect night to discover just how entertaining and memorable it can be.

When: March 21

Where: Frontier Texas

Arts and Culture

EASL: Every Artist Starts Little

EASL is a FREE early childhood program rooted in fine art, literacy and development. Bring your preschool aged child(ren) and join Mrs. Erica for storytime, music, and hands on art activities, no registration required.

When: March 13

Where: Paramount Theatre

The Abilene Philharmonic Presents Carmen

Feel the fiery passion and unforgettable melodies of Bizet's Carmen as the Abilene Philharmonic Orchestra brings this iconic opera to life in a thrilling symphonic concert. Experience the drama, romance, and excitement of one of classical music's most beloved masterpieces.

When: March 21

Where: Abilene Convention Center

Curious George Meet and Greet

Get ready to meet Curious George everyone favorite little monkey. Guests will get to meet George, enjoy a build-your-own banana split, and take part in playful, hands-on activities designed just for VIP attendees. It’s a delightful way to celebrate while supporting the arts.

When: March 28

Where: NCCIL

Curious George: The Golden Meatball

Join Curious George, the inquisitive little monkey from books, movies, and the award-winning PBS show, in a brand-new musical adventure! In Curious George: The Golden Meatball, George helps his friend Chef Pisghetti prepare for All You-Can-Eat Meatball Day, but when the crowd mysteriously disappears, George sets off to enter the Golden Meatball Contest in Rome. Packed with swinging, flipping fun, and a tasty dose of learning about cooking and friendship, this lively show is perfect for young audiences.

When: March 29

Where: Paramount Theatre

Live Muisc

Local Legends

As a Certified Music Friendly City, Abilene has a long list of local musicians performing across town for you to discover all year round. From local legends lighting up The Ice House stage to rising talent on the road to stardom at Betty Rose's, Abilene serves up a night of music that’s full of pure Texas charm.

Musical Icons

From charming evenings in the beautifully restored Spanish Moorish Paramount Theatre to big stage names at the Abilene Convention Center, Abilene brings renown hits right to you. With options including That Arena Rock Show, Bohemian Queen, Carmen by the Abilene Philharmonic, and the Outlaws and Legends Music Festival the sounds of musical icons take center stage and invite you to join in on an evening you won't want to forget.

Outdoor Adventures

Farmers Market

Shop fresh and local at the Abilene Farmers Market! Browse a colorful selection of seasonal fruits and vegetables, locally raised meats, farm-fresh eggs, baked goods, jams, and handmade crafts. It’s the perfect way to connect with local growers and makers while supporting the community.

Date: Every Saturday 8am - 12pm

Where: 626 N. 1st Street

Storybook Gardens

As the Storybook Capital of America Downtown Abilene is filled with the largest public collection of storybook character sculptures! Stop by Frontier Texas or the Visitor Center at 1101 N. 1st Street to grab your Adventure Guide and explore the storybook gardens taking photos with your favorite characters.

Where: Downtown Abilene

Shopping

Downtown Shopping

Wander through Abilene’s vibrant Downtown Cultural District and discover a delightful mix of boutiques, antiques, and art nestled among galleries, local restaurants, and storybook sculptures. From stylish local boutiques and curated gift stores to vintage treasures and handmade goods, downtown shopping offers an authentic Abilene experience

Shoppers browsing trendy clothing and jewelry boutiques at Allen Ridge in Abilene, a vibrant retail and dining destination.

Whether you’re here for a signature festival, a cozy coffee break, or an afternoon exploring downtown, you’ll find both the frontier spirit and warm Texas hospitality that defines us.