In 2026, Gonzales, Texas, is celebrating a Bicentennial of beginning and boldness. Going back to August 1825, a young colony took root along the banks of the Guadalupe River. Founded by empresario Green DeWitt and named for Governor Rafael Gonzáles, the settlement quickly became more than just another dot on the Texas map—it became the birthplace of a movement. From its earliest days, Gonzales has carried a spirit of determination and pride that still beats strong two centuries later.
THE FIRST SHOT IN TEXAS HISTORY
If Texas history were a novel, Gonzales would claim one of its most thrilling opening chapters. In October 1835, Mexican forces demanded the return of a small cannon once loaned for defense. The people of Gonzales answered with a flag bearing the bold words, “Come and Take It.” That defiant stand led to the first shot of the Texas Revolution.
But the town’s legacy in Texas’ fight for independence didn’t stop there. When the Alamo was under siege, Gonzales sent the “Immortal 32” to reinforce its defenders—a selfless act of bravery, as none would return. Later, as the war pressed on, Gonzales was burned under Sam Houston’s orders during the Runaway Scrape to keep it from enemy hands. Every chapter in the story of Gonzales is one of sacrifice, resilience and an unwavering belief in freedom.
A YEARLONG CELEBRATION
Turning 200 years old in 2025, the town has been enjoying a year-long celebration full of fun and festivities for locals and visitors alike to enjoy! Kicked off in February at the Gonzales Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture’s annual Excellence Gala, members recognized outstanding members in the community and eased a year full of commemoration ahead. Gonzales Main Steet and Tourism hosted it’s Bicentennial Block Party in March, filling downtown with music and food ahead of the Texas Independence Relay—a race spanning almost 200 miles which, of course, is only fit to begin in Gonzales each year. To mark the official birthday month, August, the Gonzales Chamber hosted its Bicentennial Bites Birthday Bash (4-B) culinary competition. But a year-long celebration is nothing without a year-long scavenger hunt, where followers of the Gonzales Texas Bicentennial Facebook page eagerly await monthly hints to uncover a special commemorative pin!
If you missed out on any of these fun events, you needn’t worry! There’s plenty of celebrating to come. The town will enjoy a Bicentennial Bash on October 2—exactly 190 years after the Battle of Gonzales. This party will also mark the premier of Texas Legacy in Lights, a 3D projection mapping project that will immerse visitors into the Battle of Gonzales through an exciting visual display on the façade of the Gonzales Memorial Museum. And of course, you’ll want to join the thousands of local residents and visitors that gather each year for the Come & Take It celebration! The three-day event every first weekend in October features free live music, vendors, food and games—including the now-famous chicken flying contest! This special year’s festival takes place October 3-5. The huge entertainment lineup includes sets from a variety of great Texas bands, leading up to headliners Los Grandes Del Norte, Little Texas, Jarrod Birmingham and Tracy Byrd. Sunday has become the favorite fun day for many event traditionalists with the T-bone steak cook off, car show and the authentic polka magnum opus of the Shiner Hobo band!
BE A PART OF THE HISTORY
From cannon fire to community pride, Gonzales has always known how to make history. This year, the story continues—and everyone’s invited to celebrate 200 years of courage, spirit and Texas heart.
