Happy (almost) fall, y'all! Even though we may not always get to enjoy the crisp, cool October nights that other states do, we celebrate this time of year in a way that only Texans know how. So, in honor of my favorite season being nearly upon us, I thought I'd put together this handy list of 12 festivals in our state that will make you appreciate how WE do fall - even if it might be a little different than everywhere else.

1. Texas Renaissance Festival (Todd Mission)

Of course I had to start the list with the one and only RenFest. Every fall, thousands of people from all over the country gather to watch jousting, drink mead, and parade around in ball gowns or suits of armor that will take you back to medieval times. The festival runs October 8 through November 27, and you can purchase tickets now on There are also themed weekends like All Hallows Eve and Celtic Christmas that take an already amazing experience to a whole new level.

2. Texas Rice Festival (Winnie)

Since I'm from Southeast Texas, my family and I make it a point to go to the Rice Festival every year. Carnivals are already fun, but something about this one being in a small town makes it even more fun and charming. There's even a beauty pageant if you have little girls or teenagers who are interested in competing for the crown.

3. Autumn at the Arboretum (Dallas)

Every year, the Dallas Arboretum puts on a spectacular fall festival from September 17 to November 23. It was voted the #1 place in America to put on your fall bucket list by Orbitz, and it's no secret why. With over 90,000 pumpkins of all different shapes, colors and sizes arranged in displays you never thought possible, this festival is sure to put a smile on everyone's face.

4. Texas State Fair (Dallas)

Also in Dallas, the biggest fair in the state will be going on from September 30 to October 23. If you've never had the opportunity to see Big Tex in person, you're certainly missing out.

5. Come and Take It Festival (Gonzales)

You won't find a festival like this anywhere else - that's because it commemorates the one and only Battle of Gonzales, the fight that bore the famous phrase, "Come and Take It!" If you want to honor our state in a charming little town where everyone is proud to be a Texan, head on over to Gonzales from September 30 to October 2.

6. Pecan Festival (Groves)

This is another one that holds a special place in my heart. I can remember many a fall night spent here riding carnival rides until it was long past my bedtime. It will be held from November 3-6 this year, so mark your calendars!

7. Texas Rose Festival (Tyler)

This festival takes place in the largest rose garden in the country. There's a parade, pageant, and plenty of opportunity to stroll the grounds and appreciate the beauty of the flowers. This year, it will take place from October 13-16.

8. Scarecrow Festival (Chappell Hill)

This year will be the 39th consecutive year of the Scarecrow Festival. It consists of over 250 vendors selling everything from art to clothing to food, live entertainment, music, family fun, and a scarecrow contest! Everyone, young and old, can appreciate the charm of this fall event on October 8 and 9.

9. Texas Gator Fest (Anahuac)

Here in Texas, we're not ashamed to admit that we eat gator and like it. Every year, us gator-lovin' fools gather in Anahuac to enjoy the delicious meat in every way possible and pet plenty of live ones.

10. Rice Harvest Festival (Katy)

October 8 and 9 of this year mark the 36th anniversary of this festival. There'll be live entertainment, crafts, food, and plenty of fun for the whole family.

11. Cajun Catfish Festival (Conroe)

If you like good Cajun cookin', live music, and car shows, this is the festival for you. This October 14-16, head on over to Conroe to see what all the hype is about.

Have you been to any of these festivals? Let us know about your experience! What other fall festivals in Texas are worth checking out?