It took just 18 minutes for General Sam Houston to lead his Texian soldiers to victory over the Mexican army during the 1836 Battle of San Jacinto. The win secured the state’s independence — and got a few licks in for those who had fallen at the Alamo just a month before. A reenactment (give or take a few minutes) with cannons, muskets, horses and lots of heavily breathing middle-aged men will be the centerpiece of The San Jacinto Day Festival. Other activities include music, an old-fashioned medicine show, birds of prey, arts and crafts, and more reenactments on daily life at the beginning of Texas. Remember the Alamo, remember Goliad — and be sure to remember your sunscreen! 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with a 3 p.m. battle. San Jacinto Battleground Historic Site, 3523 Battleground Road, La Porte. For information, call 281-479-2431 or visit www.sanjacinto-museum.org. Free.

Sat., April 25, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., 2009

Bob Ruggiero has been writing about music, books, visual arts and entertainment for the Houston Press since 1997, with an emphasis on Classic Rock. He used to have an incredible and luxurious mullet in...