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I'm just going to be blunt and straightforward when it comes to things to do in East Texas this weekend there's only one thing to do, one HUGE event to attend and that would be the Red Dirt BBQ & Music Festival! This festival is all about Texas barbecue joints showing off their smoking skills and taking in the live music that'll be heard on the historic brick streets of downtown Tyler.

To be fair though, Red Dirt BBQ & Music Festival isn't the only thing happening in East Texas, there will also be a couple of taco events and ways to celebrate Cinco de Mayo on Friday too.

Here's what all's happening around East Texas for the weekend of May 5th - 7th:

For more details on any event, simply click or tap the event name.

Red Dirt BBQ and Music Festival

Saturday at 12n
downtown Tyler
The 9th annual Red Dirt BBQ & Music Festival will feature around 25 of the best bbq joints from across the state sampling their creations. There will be live music throughout the day and into the late night. In addition to bbq and music, there will be vendors and lots of activities. Tickets are still available for the event.

Cinco de Mayo
Friday

True Vine - Tyler at 4p
Fresh - Tyler at 6p
Longview Arboretum - Longview at p

Lake Bistineau Spring Paddle

Saturday at 9a
Lake Bistineau in Doyline, LA
Bring your kayak, canoe, or pirogue for a 5-mile adventure on Lake Bistineau. Whether you’re a frequent paddler or just getting into the sport, we’d love to invite you to relax, explore and make new friends! Rentals are available.

Cinco de Mayo 5k, 10k, 15, and half marathon

Saturday at 7:30a
Mineola Nature Preserve - Mineola
This run will take place throughout the Mineola Nature Preserve on the railbed trail.

Grand Saline Mainstreet Festival

Saturday at 9a
Main Street - Grand Saline
The day will be filled with food, music and shopping in downtown Grand Saline.

Taco Cookoff

Saturday at 11a
Commerce Street Drafthouse - Jacksonville
Tacos will be the main event in Jacksonville Saturday during this competition along with beer too!

Terrell Taco Festival

Saturday at 11a
downtown Terrell
Terrell restaurants and taquerias will be creating some of the best tacos you've ever held in your hand and placed in your mouth! The festival also features live entertainment, vendors, arts and crafts, a kids zone and several contests throughout the day.

80 Acre Market

Saturday and Sunday
80 Acre Market - Gilmer
This weekends events are centered around getting ready for Mother's Day next weekend. Photo ops, kids activities, shopping, food trucks and live music are featured this weekend.

Ed Sheeran in Arlington

Saturday at 6p
AT&T Stadium in Arlington
Ed Sheeran will kick off the US portion of his 'Ed Sheeran + – = ÷ x Tour', also known as the 'Mathematics Tour', at AT&T Stadium in Arlington. Tickets for this show are still available.

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