Explore how one of the world’s oldest crops is gaining ground in Texas—and why it now has its own festival.

🌿 Wait… Texas Has an Olive Festival?

It might sound surprising, but olives are making a name for themselves in the Lone Star State—and they’ve earned the right to be celebrated.

In a state better known for BBQ and bluebonnets, the idea of olive oil tastings and orchard strolls may seem out of place. But tucked into the limestone hills of Central Texas and the sunny stretches of South Texas, a growing number of producers are proving that olives can thrive here. And at the heart of this movement is the Texas Olive Festival, held annually in the Hill Country.

This isn’t just a food event. It’s a marker of a changing landscape—literally and culturally.

🫒 The Rise of Olive Farming in Texas

Texas olive farming is relatively young. Early experiments began in the 1990s and 2000s, but it wasn’t until the past 10–15 years that things began to take root—especially in the Hill Country, where the Mediterranean-like climate offers promise for certain olive cultivars.

Today, Texas is one of the top U.S. states for domestic olive oil production, alongside California.

But growing olives in Texas isn’t easy. Trees are sensitive to extreme cold, and unpredictable weather patterns (especially deep freezes like the one in 2021) can wipe out entire groves. Still, many producers are committed to the long game. With smart orchard design, climate-resilient varieties, and a commitment to quality, they’re working to build an industry that’s as Texan as it is global.

🥳 Inside the Texas Olive Festival

The Texas Olive Festival, hosted by Texas Hill Country Olive Company in Dripping Springs, is the state’s premier olive celebration. Usually held in the fall, it’s equal parts tasting event, farm tour, and local food fair—designed for families, food lovers, and curious travelers alike.

Here’s what visitors can expect:

1. Olive oil tastings (yes, you sip it like wine!)
2. Food pairings and chef demos using local ingredients
3. Educational sessions on pressing, flavor profiles, and sustainability
4. Tours of the orchard and mill to see how the oil is made
5. Local artisans and vendors selling everything from spice blends to handmade soaps
6. Live music, drinks, and shaded spaces to relax and soak in the Hill Country views

It’s approachable, unpretentious, and welcoming—even for people who couldn’t tell a Arbequina from a Mission olive. And that’s part of the charm.

🧠 Why It Matters

At first glance, an olive festival might just seem like a fun weekend event. But it’s also a window into deeper shifts happening in Texas food and farming.

1. Olive oil is big business—and a healthier, sustainable alternative to imported oils.
2. Culinary tourism is growing, and people want to know where their food comes from.
3. Texas is becoming more diverse, and olive traditions rooted in Mediterranean cultures are gaining new relevance.
4. Agritourism is evolving, with farms offering experiences that go beyond picking produce or petting animals.

Events like the Texas Olive Festival help bridge the gap between consumers and growers, creating a more informed and engaged food culture.

🚗 Visiting an Olive Orchard in Texas

You don’t have to wait for a festival to explore Texas olives. Several orchards across the state offer tours, tastings, and workshops throughout the year—especially in fall and spring.

Most are located in:

1. Texas Hill Country (Dripping Springs, Wimberley, San Saba)
2. South Texas (Carrizo Springs, Uvalde, and surrounding areas)

A few even press their oil onsite and sell it directly to visitors.

👉 Pro tip: Most Texas olive harvests happen in early fall—usually between late September and November—making this a great time for tours, tastings, and fresh-pressed oils.Spring often brings wildflowers and lighter crowds.

At Delve, we’re working to expand access to farm experiences like these, including future listings for olive farm tours and tastings. Sign up for updates or browse current experiences to discover what’s already available near you.

🔗 Stay Curious

Want to keep exploring Texas agritourism? These posts pair well with this one:

1. What Makes a Good Agritourism Festival?
2. Texas Pecans: From Tree to Table
3. Inside a Farm Tour in the Texas Hill Country
4. Is Olive Oil Healthy? (coming soon)

📬 Stay Connected

Curious about olives, agritourism, or food education in Texas? Sign up for Delve’s newsletter to get new experiences and blog posts delivered straight to your inbox—plus early access to events and farm tours as they’re added.