National Texas Day
National Texas Day is an annual celebration dedicated to honoring the rich history, culture, and heritage of the Lone Star State. This special day provides an opportunity to celebrate everything that makes Texas unique, from its cowboy culture and rodeos to its famous Tex-Mex cuisine and barbecue.
Quick Facts
When is it?: February 1st annually
Tagged as: State Celebration Day
What’s the hashtag?: #NationalTexasDay
When was it founded?: 2017
Who founded it?: Part of a national initiative to honor all U.S. states
History
Texas has been under six different flags throughout its history – France, Spain, Mexico, Republic of Texas, Confederate States, and the United States. The state joined the Union as the 29th state in 1845, briefly seceded during the Civil War, and was readmitted in 1870. The name “Texas” comes from the Caddo Indian word meaning “friends.”
Timeline
- Late 1600s: European settlement begins
- 1821: Texas becomes part of Mexico
- 1836: Texas declares independence
- 1845: Joins United States as 29th state
- 1861: Secedes to join Confederacy
- 1870: Readmitted to Union
Dates for Next Year
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | February 1 | Saturday |
| 2026 | February 1 | Sunday |
| 2027 | February 1 | Monday |
| 2028 | February 1 | Tuesday |
| 2029 | February 1 | Wednesday |
| 2030 | February 1 | Thursday |
How It’s Observed
People celebrate by learning about Texas history, enjoying Tex-Mex food, hosting barbecues, visiting historical sites like the Alamo, and sharing Texas pride on social media.
Fun Facts About Texas
- Second largest state by area and population
- Home to 254 counties
- State motto is “Friendship”
- Birthplace of Dr Pepper (1885)
- Has the largest bat colony in North America
- State Capitol is taller than the U.S. Capitol
Quiz
- What’s the state bird? (Northern Mockingbird)
- What’s the state flower? (Bluebonnet)
- How many Fortune 500 companies are headquartered in Texas? (53)
- What’s the largest ranch in Texas? (King Ranch)
FAQs
- Has Texas had female governors? Yes, two: Ann Richards and Miriam Ferguson
- Did Texas win the Battle of the Alamo? No, but later won independence
- How did Texas get its name? From Caddo Indian word meaning “friends”
- Was Texas ever an independent country? Yes, from 1836 to 1845
Related Days
- Texas Independence Day (March 2)
- San Jacinto Day (April 21)
- State Fair of Texas (Fall)
- Rodeo Days (Various dates)
- Cinco de Mayo (May 5)
