Bluebonnet Season in Texas
It’s almost bluebonnet season in Texas, a time in early spring when the striking state flower blankets portions of the state in blue. Fields of bluebonnets pop up along the highways, at parks and in open fields, making a great backdrop for yearly family photos. The flowers, which are largely odorless, have been the Texas state flower for more than 100 years now, since 1901. There are actually six different kinds of bluebonnets, all of which are considered Texas’ state flower.
Contrary to popular belief, it is not illegal in Texas to pick a bluebonnet. Although some Texans may scold and tell children and adults they’ve broken the law by picking one of Texas’ state flowers, no such law actually exists. Bluebonnet fields in Texas are a harbinger of spring and warmer weather, and the fields of blue that crop up each year in late March and throughout April delight Texas residents and visitors each year with their arrival.
Fun facts about bluebonnets
- Bluebonnets are both annuals and perennials
- They grow best in long periods of direct sunlight
- Some bluebonnets have measured almost 65” in height at Big Bend National Park!
- Bluebonnets got their name from their color and shape
- Though these flowers are beautiful, they are actually toxic if ingested. Even animals steer clear of eating these flowers. Make sure your kids don’t accidentally ingest any during photo sessions!
Three great bluebonnet festivals you won’t want to miss in Texas
- Burnet Bluebonnet Festival– This year marks the 40th anniversary of this fun festival located right outside of Austin. Taking place from April 7-9 2023, the Burnet Bluebonnet Festival offers up live music, parades, a carnival, a children’s area and much more. Drawing more than 30,000 festival-goers each year, the Burnet Bluebonnet Festival is even a place your dog can enjoy as long as you keep them on a leash.
- Ennis Bluebonnet Festival– Visit the famed Ennis Bluebonnet Trails during the month of April and then head back the weekend of April 14-16 to enjoy a festival centered on Texas’ beautiful state flower. In 1997, Ennis, located just to the southeast of the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex, was named the Official Bluebonnet City of Texas, and 2023’s festival is the 71st anniversary of the bluebonnet festival.
- Chappell Hill Bluebonnet Festival– Dubbed the “Official Bluebonnet Festival of Texas,” this festival takes place April 15-16, 2023. Located between Austin and Houston on Highway 290, Chappell Hill, in Washington County, has a historic downtown area worth the drive. The festival offers up shopping, food, live music and more. One of the largest bluebonnet festivals in the state, this one is not to be missed.
Texas lodging
Looking to book your Texas vacation? Sun Outdoors has you covered. Whether you want to stay in Austin, Houston, DFW, San Antonio or Hill Country, Sun Outdoors is sure to offer up a location convenient for you. All of the Sun Outdoor sites feature countless amenities to make your comfortable for the duration of your stay and make your vacation one of your best yet. With ample RV hook-up sites, club houses, pools and so much more, you’ll wonder why you didn’t come sooner! Book a stay at one of these great locations to enjoy the Texas Bluebonnets that will start cropping up in 2023 before we know it.
