Autumn is a treat for the senses, as the landscape in East Texas bursts with the golden hues of the season and the flavor of the seasonal harvest. Come November, the cool weather brings people out by the droves for the 28th Annual Heritage Syrup Festival in historic Henderson, commemorating the century-old tradition of making ribbon cane syrup.
Visitors crowd historic downtown Henderson.
Spend your visit exploring two beautiful locations – the five-acre grounds of the Depot Museum and 10 blocks in the National Register Historic Downtown District. The Depot Museum offers a glimpse into the agricultural history of the region, showcasing an antique, mule-powered syrup mill that produces old-fashioned cane syrup. Getting a taste is one of the best parts of the festival, but there’s no shortage of other activities to keep you busy as the festivities spread to Heritage Square. Watch folk singers and square dancers perform on two downtown stages, sample East Texas cuisine and peruse the classic cars on display around the historical Rusk County Courthouse. A variety of folk artists will also be on hand to demonstrate the techniques of making lace, rope, baskets, wood carvings, quilts and more. As you explore the 150 arts and crafts booths set up in the street and downtown shops housed in beautifully restored buildings, it won’t be hard to find a treasure or two to take home.
