From Bastrop locals to those just joining the community, it’s no secret that Bastrop offers an authentic experience for every type of adventurer. With its mix of outdoor escapes, rich history and friendly Southern hospitality, Bastrop is a place to sit back, relax and let the good times roll any time of the year. This summer, Bastrop is gearing up for an enticing lineup of annual events, perfect for a summer staycation.

While Bastrop’s local economy thrives on tourism, it also thrives when locals indulge in the activities going on throughout the community. Whether enjoying live music, venturing outdoors or experiencing the history offered within the town, there are many ways to play like a visitor in Bastrop. To get out and experience Bastrop, consider adding this summer’s annual events to the calendar, including the Bastrop Juneteenth Celebration, Big Bang Celebration and the Corvette Invasion.

Kicking off the summer is the Bastrop Juneteenth Celebration on June 15. This year’s event will feature a celebration parade along the historic Main Street, live music, a DJ, food, small business vendors, kids and adult activities, and a family competition. The Blue Flame Cruisers will also host a car, truck, and motorcycle show at the Bastrop Convention Center. Unique to this year’s event, Bastrop will bring the Harriet Tubman: The Journey to Freedom sculpture by Wofford Sculpture Studio to the Kerr Community Center. The powerful traveling 9-foot monument celebrates Tubman’s heroic journey to rescue enslaved people in the 1800s. This piece has traveled the country since 2020 and has been exhibited in many prominent locations, but it has never traveled to Texas.

“Summer is a perfect time to visit Bastrop. This year marks the second year of Bastrop’s Big Bang Celebration, previously the Bastrop Patriotic Festival,” said Ashton LaFuente, interim chief operating officer at Visit Bastrop. “On June 29 at Fisherman’s Park, experience the festive atmosphere and indulge in live music, delicious concessions, and exciting activities throughout the day, topped off with a dazzling fireworks display.”

These aren’t the only exciting events taking over Bastrop this summer. Also returning to the town is the Bastrop classic—Corvette Invasion.

“One of Bastrop’s most popular summer events, Corvette Invasion, will return July 19 and 20 at the Bastrop Convention Center," LaFuente said. "This two-day event is considered the largest Corvette event in the state, with hundreds of Corvettes from across Texas, and daily activities for the whole family to enjoy.”

While the annual events add extra excitement to a Bastrop staycation, the town offers plenty to explore outside of festival schedules. History buffs can delve into the Bastrop County Museum and Visitor Center year-round, immersing themselves in exhibits that detail the town's fascinating journey. The Lost Pines Art Center is another worthwhile stop, showcasing the artistic talents of local and regional creators.

To extend the fun, book a stay at a local hotel and enjoy the many amenities offered. Nestled on 405 acres along the Lower Colorado River, Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort & Spa is pure Texas luxury, complete with a pristine 18-hole golf course and epic outdoor pools. The resort offers horseback riding, archery, fire pits with s’mores kits, and a lazy river. The best part? The resort is dog friendly, so the whole family can enjoy the fun, even four-legged family members!

So, whether you're drawn by the lively energy of events or prefer a quieter exploration of Bastrop's rich heritage and artistic spirit, this Texas gem has something in store to explore during your summer staycation. To plan your day or find details on annual events, check out the official Visit Bastrop website.