TEXAS RICE FESTIVAL

The Texas Rice Festival celebrates everything to do with rice and good times! For over 35 years, thousands of people have gathered for this event to celebrate the rice harvest. Agriculture is a major part of the economy, and rice farms are plentiful. As field after field of rice bows to the harvesting machines each fall, locals and tourists alike crowd the Winnie-Stowell Park to enjoy the celebration. The annual event is held the first weekend in October and features non-stop live entertainment, carnival, parades, livestock show, open horse show, BBQ cookoff, nightly street dances, antique car show, cooking contest, rice threshing demonstration, pageants, and of course, lots of great food! The Texas Rice Festival provides a country fair atmosphere with entertainment for all ages. Visit their website: www.texasricefestival.org 

AGRICULTURAL HISTORICAL MUSEUM

For over 100 years, farmers and ranchers have been the backbone of the community. This museum, a tribute to that history, was recently inaugurated. Located behind the Texas Rice Festival/Chamber Of Commerce offices on LeBlanc Road, the museum houses authentic antique tractors, farming equipment, photos and the airplane that planted the first aerially-seeded rice crop in Texas. In addition, the Winnie Santa Fe Depot, which was established in 1905, has been restored and relocated alongside the Agricultural Historical Museum and is home to the Winnie Area Chamber of Commerce.  It also houses many items relating to the overall history of the area. The Agricultural Historical Museum is open for tours by appointments by calling 409-296-2231.

RODEOS

Nothing says Southeast Texas quite like a rodeo. Throughout the year, many contests are held in the Winnie-Stowell Park Arena and at the privately owned arena located just two miles east of town. For schedules of events contact the local 4-H or Commissioner Mark Huddleston's office at 409-296-8250. 

HUNTING AND FISHING

For those whose taste runs to more natural diversions, the Winnie area offers excellent hunting and fishing opportunities. Guides are available for the enormous number of sportsmen who flock to the area each hunting season. The Gulf of Mexico is located only 18 miles south of Winnie, where travelers can enjoy saltwater fishing and fun in the sun on the beach. If you enjoy viewing wildlife in their natural habitat, the Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge is only a short drive away...and alligators are a part of the scenery in this area.

BIRDING

And for birders, High Island, 18 miles to the south of Winnie, is one of the top bird viewing areas of the United States as migratory birds stop on the island during their winter travels. People from all over the world visit the area to view these birds who travel thousands of miles each year.

ANTIQUING IN WINNIE

Winnie is now a must-visit destination for the antiquer. A number of antique shops and resale businesses dot Broadway and Hwy. 124. Some 50 dealers proudly display their wares. Larry's Old Time Trade Days is held the weekend after the first Monday of each month.  Come spend the day antiquing in Winnie.....

                                    SAFARI RUN & RECREATION AREA

Built in 1992 by volunteer effort, Safari Run is one of the largest recreation areas in the county. The park has recreational items for both preschool and older children and picnic tables are located on the entrance end to the park. There are 2 covered pavillions, one at each end, that may be reserved for private parties and events. Restroom facilities and running water are available. The park is open from dawn to dusk daily. For reservations, contact Commissioner Mark Huddleston's office at 409-296-8250.