MARCH

  March 16–18 - Shamrock
72nd ST. PATRICK'S DAY CELEBRATION... Salute the Irish in Shamrock with the Donegal beard-growing contest, carnival rides, parade, arts & crafts, rodeo events, Miss Irish Rose pageant, motorcycle rally, Lad & Lassie contest, and dance. (806) 256-2501.

APRIL

  April 14–15 - Lubbock
LUBBOCK ARTS FESTIVAL... Enjoy the largest fine arts and crafts event in West Texas! Festival presents visual art, music, theater, dance, and children's activities. Lubbock Memorial Civic Center. (806) 744-2787. www.lubbockartsfestival.org.

MAY

  May 18–19 - Santa Anna
FUNTIER DAYS FEATURING THE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP BISON COOKOFF...  The official bison cookoff for the state of Texas, established in 1994, is at Armory Civic Center. Enjoy barbecue bison, homemade ice cream, vendors, exhibits & entertainment, including chain saw carving & gunfights. Shop downtown's arts & craft fair at the visitor center to learn Penatucka Comanche history. www.santaannatex.org.

  May 18–20 - Midland
35th ANNUAL CELEBRATION OF THE ARTS... The longest running event downtown! 40-50 visual artists, juried show, on-stage performances, kid's arts & play zone, take-away art projects, fest foods & activities. Indoors at Midland Tower Bldg (223 N. Colorado St.) & outside on new green space. Visual artists to enter: www.Zapplication.org  Select "Participating Events."  All other inquiries:  info@acmidland.org or (432) 687-1149.

JUNE

  June 1–3 - San Elizario
BILLY THE KID FESTIVAL... In 1876, Billy the Kid visited San Elizario! In June 2018, learn the historical truths behind this event as the historic breakout of Billy's friend from the old El Paso County Jail is re-enacted. See a mock shoot-out, tour the jail and 17 other historic sites, plus arts & crafts. 9am to 6pm daily. www.BillyTheKidFestival.com. (915) 851-0093. 

  June 6–9 - Snyder 
WEST TEXAS WESTERN SWING FESTIVAL...