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Arts & Entertainment

Free rattlesnake chili pies top 8 of the best Texas Independence Day celebrations in D-FW

You don't need a 7th grade history textbook to know that March 2 is one of the best days of the year to raise a bottle of Shiner to the Lone Star State. Though in case you're in need of a reminder, it marks the anniversary of the signing of the Texas Declaration of Independence, which created the Republic of Texas in 1836.

The fight for freedom during the Texas Revolution wasn't yet won; but, we celebrate each year resolve in the face of crushing defeat: Texian rebel fighters waged a losing battle at the Alamo between Feb. 23 and March 6. It was the cry to "Remember the Alamo," of course, that inspired General San Houston's men to victory during the Battle of San Jacinto -- and Texas' decisive break from Mexico -- on April 21.

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Here are seven ways to toast to Texas history this week in D-FW. 

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Eat free rattlesnake chili pie

Y.O. Ranch Steakhouse in Dallas' West End offers complimentary rattlesnake chili pies and $5 cactus margaritas from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on March 2.

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The mini pies include actual rattlesnake sausage topped with fried tortilla strips, sour cream, cheddar cheese and pico, and the cactus margaritas include Y.O. Anejo tequila and organic prickly pear juice with agave nectar.

Go to a live music bash

The Rustic is celebrating from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. on March 2 with live music headlined by Texas swamp rockers Shinyribs. There will also be Texas shirts for sell from Southward Apparel, a photo booth and outdoor games.

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Watch a Texas-made flick

Bottle Rocket was where it all began for Wes Anderson and the Wilson Brothers, Luke, Owen and Andrew. The 1996 indie caper was filmed in Dallas, Fort Worth and Hillsboro, and it features "colorful characters ... sweeping cinematography of old money McMansions, malls, country clubs [and] private schools contrasted with interstate motels and flatlands."  You can catch it on the big screen at the brand new Alamo Drafthouse near downtown Dallas at 7 p.m. on March 2 for $7.

Have happy hour with a friendly longhorn 

Did someone say free apps?
Did someone say free apps?(MARK M. HANCOCK)

The Ranch at Las Colinas features a special Happy Hour in the Pavilion that includes cocktail specials (showcasing Texas spirits), complimentary passed appetizers, free tastings from local breweries and distilleries and live music from 4 p.m. until close on March 2.

There will also be a special appearance by The Ranch's longhorn Norman on the porch for petting and photos.

Try rare Lone Star beers and toast Texas wines

Grab your best beer bud and head to Flying Saucer on the Lake for limited tappings of Texas craft beers from Saint Arnold, Martin House and more, as well are rare bottle releases of Community Barrel-Aged Inspiration 2015 and Ranger Creek Texas Bourbon Series: Imperial Brown 2015. Specials begin at 5 p.m. on March 2.

More into vino than beer?Max's Wine Dive in Uptown offers a dinner pairing four award-winning Texas wines with a menu by Chef Stefon Rishel, winner of Top Chef Fort Worth, beginning at 7 p.m. on March 2. Tickets are $50 per person and can be purchased here.

Devour a dollar dog on March 2

The Post Oak Hot
The Post Oak Hot(Luscher's Red Hots )

While there's nothing explicitly Texas Independence Day related to Luscher's Red Hots' first anniversary deal, it's hard to deny $1 hot dogs from a place that has been considered among the best restaurants in the country.

Consider it a March 2 miracle: Chicago native Brian Luscher made his home and some of his very best food in Dallas, so we'll absolutely consider him an honorary Texan. Head over to the Deep Ellum spot between 11 a.m. and 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday for your choice of a Post Oak Red Hot, Depression Dog or Kraut Dog for just $1 each.

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Caravan to Carrollton for TexFest on Saturday

Historic Downtown Carrollton carries the celebration into the weekend with TexFest, a free celebration of all things Texas from 4-10 p.m. on March 5. Bring cash for beer from local craft breweries and food and stick around for live entertainment, including at set by Dallas roots rockers The O's.

The O's will play Saturday at TexFest.
The O's will play Saturday at TexFest.(Jerry McClure / Special Contributor)