Everything you need to know before you come.

Is it really free?

Yes. Completely free. No tickets, no reservations, no donations required. Just show up, find a spot on the lawn, and watch.

When does the show play?

The show runs twice nightly, Tuesday through Sunday. It's closed on Mondays.

Summer hours (April-October): 8:25 PM and 9:15 PM

Winter hours (November-March): 7:25 PM and 8:15 PM

Each show is approximately 34 minutes long.

Where exactly is it?

The show takes place on the lawn of the Gonzales Memorial Museum at 414 Smith Street, Gonzales, Texas 78629. The museum's front facade is the screen - you'll know you're in the right place when you see the building.

Where do I park?

Street parking is available along Smith Street and the surrounding downtown blocks. Gonzales is a small town - parking is easy and free. Plan to arrive 15-20 minutes before showtime to get a good spot on the lawn.

What should I bring?

A lawn chair or blanket is the big one, since the show is watched from the grass. Flashlights help after dark, bug spray is smart in warmer months, and water plus a light jacket can make the night much more comfortable.

How long is the show?

About 34 minutes. It tells the full story of the Battle of Gonzales - from the cannon dispute of 1831 through the first shot on October 2, 1835. Most people stay for both showings.

Is it appropriate for kids?

Absolutely. The show is a cinematic retelling of Texas history - no graphic violence, lots of spectacle, and genuinely exciting for kids and adults alike. It's become a favorite for families and school groups.

What happens if it rains?

Light rain generally doesn't cancel a show - the projection equipment is weatherproof and the audience experience is part of the outdoor setting. In severe weather or lightning, shows may be delayed or cancelled. Check the Texas Legacy in Lights Facebook page for same-night updates if weather looks questionable.

Can I bring a school group or tour group?

Yes, and we love it. School groups, tour buses, and organized visits are welcome at no charge. For groups larger than 20, we ask that you reach out in advance so we can help you plan - contact us at the link below.

What is the show actually about?

Texas Legacy in Lights tells the story of the Battle of Gonzales - the opening shot of the Texas Revolution. In October 1835, Mexican forces demanded the settlers of Gonzales return a small cannon the Mexican government had loaned them for protection. The settlers said no. They sewed a flag with the cannon's image and the words "Come and Take It," faced down 100 soldiers, and fired the shot that launched the revolution that created the Republic of Texas. The show brings that night to life on the very building where it's commemorated - the Gonzales Memorial Museum.

What is projection mapping?

Projection mapping means the film isn't shown on a flat screen - it's mapped and projected directly onto the three-dimensional architecture of the Gonzales Memorial Museum, so the building itself appears to transform, crack, glow, and come alive as the story unfolds. It's the same technology used in world-class experiences like Disney's EPCOT nighttime shows and San Antonio's "The Saga." Seeing it in person is very different from watching a clip.

How is Texas Legacy in Lights different from The Saga in San Antonio?

Great question - and one worth a full answer. The short version: The Saga is a video art installation created in 2015 by a French artist. Texas Legacy in Lights is a narrative live-action film - the world's first permanent installation of its kind - made in 2025 by a filmmaker born and raised in Gonzales. They are fundamentally different experiences.

Is there anything else to do in Gonzales while I'm there?

Plenty. The Gonzales Memorial Museum is worth visiting before the show - it houses the original Come and Take It cannon. The historic downtown has restaurants and local shops. Palmetto State Park is 15 miles away for outdoor activities. And the Pioneer Village, the Old Jail Museum, and the Museum District are all walkable from the show site.