Annual Celebration Honors Founding of Dripping Springs

The City of Dripping Springs Annual Founders Day Festival is the city's biggest community event.

Thousands of people will gather in Dripping Springs’ historic downtown district on April 24-26, 2026, for a festive celebration of heritage and pioneer spirit.

The three-day celebration kicks off with the Grand Parade and includes: free music and entertainment, the Mighty Thomas Carnival, food, beer, street dances, cook-off competitions, over 150 arts and crafts booths and business vendors.

The Annual Founders Day Festival honors and celebrates the founding of the Dripping Springs community in 1850 by the Moss, Wallace, and Pound families. The three-day jubilee promotes cooperation and volunteerism in the community and generates community spirit and recreation.

Hosted by the City of Dripping Springs and the Founders Day Committee, which includes representatives of various community organizations, the proceeds from the festival are donated back into the community and directly benefit local non-profit organizations, churches, school and park programs, youth groups, and charities.

The Hours of the Festival

Friday, April 24:

Parade: 6:30 PM - 7:45 PM

Carnival: 4 PM - 11:30 PM (carnival closed during parade)

Music: 7:15 PM - 11 PM

Saturday, April 25:

Vendor Booths: 10 AM - 6 PM

Music: 10 AM - 11 PM

Carnival: 11 AM - 11:30 PM

Sunday, April 26:

Church Service: 8 AM - 11:30 AM

Vendor Booths: 11 AM - 5 PM

Carnival: 11 AM - 7 PM (WRISTBAND DAY! Purchase an wristband and ride all day!)

Music: 12 PM - 3 PM