Katy Rice Harvest Festival Must-Knows to Plan for a Weekend of Fun and Tradition
- ncookclark
- Oct 8
- 3 min read
KATY MAGAZINE NEWS
October 8, 2025
By Natalie Cook Clark
Katy’s most iconic event returns this weekend along with the return of the carnival and bigger entertainment. Here’s what Katy residents and visitors need to know ahead of the fun!
The 44th Katy Rice Festival is this weekend, October 11 and 12, 2025. This year the carnival returns and families can enjoy all-day passes for unlimited rides. Big entertainment will also take the stage and there are some exciting new attractions.
“The Katy Rice Harvest Festival isn’t just another event — it’s a celebration of who we are as a community,” says Kaci Maris, City of Katy Tourism and Marketing Event Coordinator. “Rooted in Katy’s proud agricultural history, the festival began as a way to honor the area’s rice farming heritage — the very industry that built the foundation of this city. Over the years, it’s grown into a beloved tradition that brings together thousands of residents, visitors, and local businesses for one unforgettable weekend in historic downtown Katy.
Event Parking Info and Other Tips
Each year the Katy Rice Festival attracts thousands of Katy residents and guests to the Downtown Katy area. Parking doesn’t need to be a headache. Festival attendees can park at the Merrell Center (6301 S. Stadium Lane,) where a complimentary shuttle will run continuously to and from the festival gates.
Please note that streets from Avenue D to Avenue A between 1st and 4th Street will be closed for the festival. Street parking in the area is limited and may be unsafe, so attendees are encouraged to utilize the shuttle service, carpool, or use rideshare options such as Uber or Lyft.
Maris advises guests to dress comfortably as weather will be beautiful in the mornings and evenings, but it is expected to get warm during the day. Guests need to know that they can bring chairs to set up near the stage, but outside food and drinks are not permitted. There will be plenty of food and drink (including alcoholic beverage) options for purchase.
The Carnival is Back
This year the carnival returns with unlimited ride wristbands for $30 per day or $50 for the full weekend. Beers are $5, waters are $2, and entry is $10 (children 12 and under are free). They will also have souvenir cups ($5) and koozies ($1) available for purchase.
New attractions this year will include: a 32-foot combine display celebrating Katy’s rich rice farming heritage, pony rides ($5) in the AgVenture area, a mechanical bull, bounce houses, a toddler and sensory zone, and a sports zone showing all the college and NFL games.
“There’s truly something for everyone at this year’s Katy Rice Harvest Festival,” says Maris.
All proceeds from this event support local scholarships and community grants through the city’s partnership with the Rotary Club of Katy.
“The Katy Rice Harvest Festival is special because it’s more than fun and festivities — it’s about giving back. Every ticket sold, every booth set up, and every volunteer hour helps raise money for local scholarships and community grants, directly benefiting Katy ISD students and nonprofits that serve our neighbors,” says Maris.
Many local businesses and groups will be out and involved along with the many volunteers that help make this festival be an ongoing tradition.
“It’s where generations connect, small businesses thrive, and local pride shines. From live music and parades to the petting zoos, carnival rides, and food vendors — the festival captures the spirit of Katy: hardworking, generous, and deeply community-focused,” says Maris. “In short, the Katy Rice Harvest Festival is Katy’s heartbeat for one weekend every year — a celebration of our roots, our people, and our commitment to each other.”
Ticket Info
Tickets for the festival are $10 for adults, with children 12 and under are free. Carnival unlimited rides and games can be purchased for $30 for one day or $50 for the entire weekend.
Again, all proceeds from the festival go directly to community grants and scholarships through a partnership with the Rotary Club of Katy, supporting local initiatives and students.
Tickets can be purchased online.