A weekend without temperatures in the triple digits is finally here! And with plenty of things to do outdoors, it's about time. From Oktoberfest to outdoor concerts, here's what going on around North Texas this weekend -- Sept. 14-17.
Enjoy a taste of the original Bavarian celebration with a purely Texan twist. For more than 35 years, people have donned dirndls and lederhosen (or have just come as they are) for four days of revelry in German culture, food, music and bier. Experience the sound of polka bands and other traditional entertainers on multiple stages in Addison Circle Park, and participate in special games for bier lovers, kids of all ages, dachshunds and more. Raise your favorite German stein and say, “Prost!”
Where: Addison Circle Park, Addison
When: Sept. 14-17
Cost: $10
More info: https://addisonoktoberfest.com/
AirOtic Soirée: A Circus-Style Burlesque Show
AirOtic Soirée is a one-of-a-kind immersive cirque experience in Dallas that combines high-level circus artistry with the excitement of risqué cabaret! Treat yourself to a drink from the bar or enjoy bottle service available for purchase on site.
Where: Viva's Lounge, 1350 Manufacturing St #120, Dallas
When: Friday and Saturday nights through Oct. 28. Show starts at 8 p.m.
Cost: $80 and up
Arctic Monkeys
The Arctic Monkeys have maintained a dedicated global fan base and have received numerous awards and nominations throughout their career. Their live performances are known for their energy and charisma. It’s a unique chance for DFW fans to catch them live!
Where: Dickies Arena, Fort Worth
When: Saturday, Sept. 16 at 8 p.m.
Cost: Sold out, resale available
More info: https://dickiesarena.com/event/2023-09-16-archtic-monkeys/
Autumn at the Arboretum
The 18th annual Autumn at the Arboretum his here with 100,000 pumpkins, gourds and squash, hailing from THE pumpkin capital of Texas, Floydada, and 150,000 beautiful fall blooming plants throughout the garden. This year’s theme ‘It’s The Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown’ features the return of the Peanuts Gang, along with themed pumpkin houses that make up the acclaimed Pumpkin Village, and of course, a maze for younger visitors.
Where: Dallas Arboretum,
When: Sept. 16 – Nov. 5
Cost: $12 - $20
More info: https://www.dallasarboretum.org/autumn-at-the-arboretum/
Billy Bob’s: GABBY BARRETT (Fri) and CASEY DONAHEW (Sat)
Where: Billy Bob’s Fort Worth
When: Friday and Saturday
Cost: $20 - $50
More info: https://billybobstexas.com/events
DMA: "Between Wonder and Seduction"
Assembling nearly all his known surviving works, Abraham Ángel: Between Wonder and Seduction introduces U.S. audiences to this legendary artist with the first major survey of his work in over 35 years. During his brief three-year career, Ángel developed a unique artistic style that successfully captured the rapidly changing society and culture of Mexico in the early 20th century. Despite his work sometimes being overshadowed by his tragic death, Ángel’s compelling paintings cemented his status as a pivotal figure in the history of modern Mexican art. See the vibrant and captivating works of Abraham Ángel with the premiere of this ambitious retrospective.
Where: Fort Worth Botanic Garden, 3220 Botanic Garden Blvd, Fort Worth
When: Sept. 10 - Jan 28
Cost: Free
More info: https://dma.org/art/exhibitions/abraham-angel-between-wonder-and-seduction
DSO: Lila Downs in Concert with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra
GRAMMY® Award-winning artist, Lila Downs, one of the most influential artists in Latin America, joins the DSO for charismatic performances that showcase her unique voice. Her own compositions combine genres and rhythms as diverse as Mexican rancheras and corridos, boleros, jazz standards, hip-hop, cumbia and popular American music. Frequently, her lyrics focus on justice, immigration and issues unique to women.
Where: Meyerson Symphony Center, Dallas
When: Sept. 15 at 7:30 p.m., Sept. 16 at 7:30 p.m
Cost: $71 and up
Dracula from Texas Ballet Theatre
Enter the terrifying domain of the legendary vampire whose insatiable bloodlust wrecks horror and destruction on his unwitting victims. Dracula is suitable for mature audiences. The Dallas Opera Orchestra will provide live orchestration during the Dallas performances of Dracula.
Where: Winspear Opera House, Dallas
When: Sept. 15-17
Cost: $25 and up
More info: https://texasballettheater.org/performance/dracula-2023/
Drake with 21 Savage
Drake and 21 Savage combine for an unforgettable night of jams.
Where: American Airlines Center, Dallas
When: Thursday, Sept. 14 at 8 p.m. and Friday, Sept. 15 at 8 p.m.
Cost: SOLD OUT - check the resale market
More info: https://www.americanairlinescenter.com/events/detail/drake-2023
Dwight Yoakam
Dwight Yoakam has sold more than 25 million albums worldwide, and he is a 21-time nominated, multiple GRAMMY Award winner. He has 12 gold albums and 9 platinum or multi-platinum albums, with five of those albums topping Billboard’s Country Albums chart and another 14 landing in the Top 10.
Where: Texas Trust CU Theatre, Grand Prairie
When: Friday, Sept. 15 at 8 p.m.
Cost: $39 and up
More info: https://texastrustcutheatre.com/events/detail/?event_id=478040
FLORIGAMIINTHEGARDEN
Enjoy a new outdoor sculpture exhibition by Santa Fe artists Jennifer and Kevin Box. The show presents a fresh look at paper folding in the 21st Century with large-scale origami-inspired metal sculptures. Emerging butterflies, big birds, grazing deer, and blooming flowers all celebrate the process of plant pollination. The colorful, whimsical, and kinetic sculptures were created in collaboration with modern masters of paper folding: Robert J. Lang, Michael G. LaFosse and Beth Johnson. Their intricate folds have been transformed into monumental metal sculptures by Kevin Box and his studio team to inspire, educate and entertain audiences in the outdoor setting of public gardens.
Where: Fort Worth Botanic Garden, 3220 Botanic Garden Blvd, Fort Worth
When: Aug. 19 - Feb. 14
Cost: $6 - $12
More info: https://fwbg.org/events/florigami/
FWBG: Celebramos: A Celebration of Latin American Culture & Heritage
The Fort Worth Botanic Garden invites guests to ¡Celebramos! A Celebration of Latin American Culture & Heritage, from September 8 through October 15, including performances and exhibitions, dining and shopping opportunities, and more.
Guests will enjoy a presentation of Latin American culture through art, native plants, and garden design throughout the entire campus. The celebration during Hispanic Heritage Month will feature numerous events, art exhibits, and unique new experiences for guests visiting the campus.
On September 8 it’s After Hours in the Garden: ¡Celebramos! Kickoff Event with an elegant evening featuring a live music performance by Pepe Valdez, hors d’oeuvres and cocktails. You can also preview the installation of “Casa Azul” – themed around the beautiful residence of Frida Kahlo, in the Leonard Courtyard. And on September 9 it’s Fall Gallery Night celebrating local artist Fernando Rojas Cervantes.
Where: Fort Worth Botanic Garden, Fort Worth
When: Sept. 14-16, 23-24, 29-30; Oct. 4, 7-8, 13-15
Cost: Free with garden admission
More Info: https://fwbg.org/events/celebramos/
Get Up and Go Kayaking in Grapevine
There's a new way to beat the heat in North Texas...and you can do it in clear kayaks.
You can take a guided eco-tour on Grapevine Lake during the day - or enjoy a sunset kayak glow tour with LED lights. Get Up and Go Kayaking tours start at $55.
Where: Grapevine Lake
When: Daily
Cost: $55 and up
More Info: https://getupandgokayaking.com/locations/grapevine/
GrapeFest
The 37th GrapeFest is here with special wine tastings and family-friendly activities along Main Street in Grapevine.
GrapeFest® celebrates wines from around the world but takes special pride in Texas wine. The People’s Choice Wine Tasting Classic sponsored by Audi Grapevine is the largest consumer-judged wine competition in the nation and exclusively features Texas wines. Sip champagnes and sparkling wines from around the world under the shaded oaks at Champagne Terrace sponsored by Hilton DFW Lakes. Explore internationally and nationally recognized wines from Barossa Valley, Australia and Napa Valley, California at a unique tasting experience at Liberty Park Plaza International Wine Experience sponsored by Gaylord Texan Resort.
Enjoy a variety of rosé at the all-new Rosé Rendezvous at the Gazebo sponsored by Messina Hof Winery, Landon Winery and Llano Estacado Winery. From there head to the Champagne Cork Shoot-Off sponsored by Texas Gun Experience or the classic Grape Stomp sponsored by Thryv and get ready for fun, competitive events you won’t forget!
Where: Historic Downtown Grapevine, 530 S Main St, Grapevine
When: Sept. 14 from 11 a.am. - 10 p.m., Sept. 15 from 11 a.m. - 11 p.m., Sept. 16 from 11 a.m. - 11 p.m., Sept. 17 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Cost: Complimentary admission all day Thursday. Paid admission after 5pm Friday. Paid admission all day Saturday and Sunday. $10 for adults. $5 for kids. $20 for all weekend.
More Info: https://www.grapevinetexasusa.com/grapefest/
The Great American Trailer Park Musical
There’s a new tenant at Armadillo Acres—and she’s wreaking havoc all over Florida’s most exclusive trailer park. When Pippi, the stripper on the run, comes between the Dr. Phil–loving, agoraphobic Jeannie and her tollbooth collector husband—the storms begin to brew. Join Lyric Stage at their first-ever production in their brand-new Studio Space in the Design District! The grill will be lit and cooking up delicious burgers and dogs and the booze will be flowing! The production is rated R and contains Strong adult language and sexual content.
Where: Lyric Stage, 1170 Quaker St, Dallas
When: Thursday - Saturdays from Sept - Oct. 14. 8 p.m. start
Cost: $50
Guts & Gory Zombie Run and Challenge
Zombies have been reported to be taking over the park and Rorie-Galloway Day Camp is being evacuated. Do you have what it takes to survive and escape?
Run through the woods, compete in team building challenges and try to survive the zombie horde. Obstacles and missions will test strength, speed, problem-solving, and teamwork. Collect survival essentials along the way to ensure your team's safe passage to the finish. Participate either as a Zombie or as a runner (human) and escape from the Zombies.
Where: Rorie Galloway Day Camp, 3100 Lawson Rd, Mesquite
When: Saturday, Sept. 16 from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Cost: $10
More Info: https://www.cityofmesquite.com/1885/Guts-and-Gory-Zombie-Fun-Run
Haunted Objects Live
Are you ready to uncover the chilling true stories behind the world’s most haunted objects? Join Greg and Dana Newkirk (Travel Channel’s Kindred Spirits, Amazon Prime’s Hellier) for an interactive presentation that will leave you on the edge of your seat.
As two of the world’s only full-time paranormal investigators, the Newkirks have spent their lives collecting and caring for cursed artifacts, possessed dolls, and other creepy artifacts said to exhibit supernatural activity. Now you can experience their spine-tingling true tales yourself!
Where: Texas Theatre, Dallas
When: Friday, Sept. 15 at 8 p.m.
Cost: $22 and up
More Info: https://www.attpac.org/on-sale/2023/haunted-objects-live/
Hispanic Heritage Festival
This lively event will showcase the diversity and beauty of Hispanic heritage. Performing Live In Concert: Sunny Sauceda Y Todo Eso, La Dezz, and Rey Reyna. Experience the rhythm of traditional music, marvel at colorful folk dances, and savor authentic Hispanic cuisine. From mariachi bands to salsa dancing, there will be something for everyone to enjoy. Explore the various booths featuring arts and crafts, showcasing the talents of local artisans. Learn about the history and significance of Hispanic traditions through interactive exhibits and displays.
Where: DeSoto Amphitheater, 211 E Pleasant Run Rd, DeSoto
When: Saturday, Sept. 16 at 6 - 9:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
More Info: https://ci.desoto.tx.us/1780/Hispanic-Heritage-Festival
Jagged Little Pill
Joy, love, heartache, strength, wisdom, catharsis, LIFE—everything we’ve been waiting to see in a Broadway show— is here in the exhilarating, fearless new musical based on Alanis Morissette’s world-changing music.
Directed by Tony Award® winner Diane Paulus (Waitress, Pippin, 1776) with a Tony®-winning book by Diablo Cody (Juno) and Grammy®-winning score, this electrifying production about a perfectly imperfect American family “vaults the audience to its collective feet” (The Guardian). “Redemptive, rousing and real, JAGGED LITTLE PILL stands alongside the original musicals that have sustained the best hopes of Broadway." (The New York Times)
You live, you learn, you remember what it’s like to feel truly human… at JAGGED LITTLE PILL.
Where: Bass Performance Hall, Fort Worth
When: Sept. 15-17
Cost: $28
Jersey Boys
With phenomenal music, memorable characters, and great storytelling, Jersey Boys follows the fascinating evolution of four blue-collar kids who became one of the greatest successes in pop-music history. Winner of Best Musical at both the Tony Awards® and Olivier Awards®, Jersey Boys takes you behind the music of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons to discover the secret of a 40-year friendship as the foursome work their way from the streets of New Jersey to the heights of stardom. Featuring electrifying performances of chart-topping hits including “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” “Dawn,” and “My Eyes Adored You,” which brought The Four Seasons the highest honor: induction into the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame. This show is rated R due to strong language and violence.
Where: Casa Mañana, 3101 W Lancaster Ave, Fort Worth
When: Sept. 14 - 17
Cost: $39 and up
More Info: https://casamanana.org/events/jersey-boys/
Jo Koy
Coming off of the highly anticipated Universal Picture film, Easter Sunday and his recent Netflix special, Jo Koy: Live From The Los Angeles Forum, Comedian Jo Koy announces his 2023 Jo Koy World Tour. As one of today’s premiere stand-up comedians, Jo Koy has come a long way from his modest beginnings performing in a Las Vegas coffee house. Jo’s uniquely relatable comedy pulls inspiration from his colorful family that has reached all kinds of people and has translated into sold-out arenas around the world.
Where: American Airlines Center, Dallas
When: Saturday, Sept. 16 starting at 8 p.m.
Cost: $43 and up
More Info: https://www.americanairlinescenter.com/events/detail/jo-koy
Light Up Lockwood
The free, family-friendly event takes place from 6-10 p.m. and will feature a variety of food, drinks, shopping, entertainment and, of course, a one-of-a-kind light show projected on the iconic Richardson water tower as the sun goes down! Tickets and parking are free.
Where: Greenville Avenue Pizza Company, 520 Lockwood Dr Suite 200, Richardson
When: Saturday, Sept. 16 starting at 6 p.m.
Cost: Free
More Info: https://www.richardsoncoredistrict.com/light-up-lockwood-2023
Marlon Wayans
Comedian Marlon Wayans holds a concert at the historic Majestic Theatre. He’ll be joined by special guest DC Ervin.
Where: Majestic Theatre, Dallas
When: Sunday, Sept. 17 at 8 p.m.
Cost: $37 and up
More Info: https://www.majestictheatredallas.com/events/marlon-wayans-2/
Meow Wolf: The Real Unreal
Is it real? Is it a dream? Is it Meow Wolf’s fourth permanent exhibition? Yes. Get to know the unknown in this brand new, mind-bending, interactive art experience located at Grapevine Mills. Explore the transformative power of creative energy at Meow Wolf’s The Real Unreal. When an ordinary family encounters the extraordinary, an inspiring tale of chosen family, community, and the power of imagination unfolds within a mesmerizing, interactive artscape. Featuring a massive collaboration between Texas and Santa Fe based artists, Meow Wolf Grapevine expands into a new era of art and storytelling.
Where: Meow Wolf Grapevine, 3000 Grapevine Mills Pkwy Suite 253, Grapevine
When: July 14-Dec. 31
Cost: $40 and up
More Info: https://meowwolf.com/
The Nazarene – The Way, The Truth, and The Life
The most important story of mankind, told through interactive visual installations.
The state-of-the-art technology with breathtaking 3D set designs, lighting and panoramic sound will immerse you in the magnitude of the word of God, bringing to life scenes from the New Testament. You can look over the shoulder of Jesus, stand in the place of the apostles and walk the path of faith side by side with the Savior.
Where: LOOK Dine-in Cinemas Dallas
When: Aug. 25-Oct. 15
Cost: $34.50
More Info: https://thenazarenexp.com/
PARK(ing) Day Dallas
PARK(ing) Day Dallas 2023 is a fun-filled event and competition that celebrates space by transforming parking spaces into vibrant mini-parks for the day!
Get ready to experience a unique urban oasis in the heart of Dallas! PARK(ing) Day brings together local communities as teams of students, architects, designers, construction professionals, average citizens, and more, to reimagine parking spaces as creative, interactive areas. Discover a variety of installations, from cozy seating areas to pop-up gardens and art displays. We'll also have live music at Pegasus Plaza and a market on Stone Street, near the Eye sculpture.
Don't miss out on the chance to explore this temporary urban transformation and connect with like-minded individuals.
Where: Downtown Dallas
When: Sept. 14
Cost: Free
Pearl Jam
Pearl Jam plays two nights in Fort Worth this weekend. Led by Eddie Vedder's distinctive vocals, they gained fame with their 1991 debut album "Ten," featuring hits like "Alive" and "Jeremy." The band's dedication to causes like environmentalism and social justice, along with their legendary live shows, has solidified their status as rock icons.
Where: Dickies Arena, Fort Worth
When: Wednesday, Sept. 13 and Friday, Sept. 15 at 7:30 p.m.
Cost: Sold out, resale available
More info: https://dickiesarena.com/event/2023-09-13-pearl-jam/
Shakespeare in the Park: King Lear
Depicting a once-great ruler's descent into madness, King Lear is one of the most powerful tragedies ever staged. King Lear has ruled for many years. As age overtakes him, he divides his kingdom amongst his children. Misjudging their loyalty, he soon finds himself stripped of all the trappings of state, wealth and power that had defined him. Lear is faced with the harsh reality that the daughter he has banished is the only one that can save him and his kingdom from destruction.
Where: Samuell-Grand Amphitheater, Dallas
When: Thursdays-Sundays from Sept. 14 - Oct. 15
Cost: $15-$20
More Info: https://shakespearedallas.ticketspice.com/shakespeare-dallas-2023-season
Shaq’s Bass All Stars Festival
Shaquille O’Neal - aka “The Diesel” is taking “Shaq’s Bass All Stars” to the next level with his first large-scale bass festival. The night features a lineup of Shaq’s favorite acts like Alison Wonderland, Sullivan King, Kai Wachi, Crankdat and Diesel (Shaq himself). This is Texas’ largest bass festival - as they are expecting 10,000 fans to come to PIP.
Where: Panther Island Pavilion, Fort Worth
When: Saturday, Sept. 16 starting at 4 p.m.
Cost: $50 and up
More Info: https://shaqsbassallstars.com/
The Sixties Show
A Show About Time Traveling Back to The 1960’s, Based Around the Greatest 1960’s Musical Re-Creation Concert…Ever. The band features former band members of The Who, Bob Dylan, and NBC TV’s Saturday Night Live band. In addition to the concert experience, the show is full multi-media Broadway-type production that is powerfully dramatized by a combination of time travel special effects, narration, 60’s archival audio, newsreel footage and a light show. This seen to be believed bigger-than-life, Broadway theater styled show is nothing less than awe-inspiring.
Where: Wyly Theatre, Dallas
When: Friday, Sept. 15 at 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $40 and up
More Info: https://www.attpac.org/on-sale/2023/the-sixties-show/
Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour Collection
The Arlington Museum of Art presents an exclusive exhibition of 12-time Grammy award-winner Taylor Swift which explores the evolution of her artistic expression. Curated by the Arlington Museum of Art from Swift’s own private collection, Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour Collection, presented by HELP Center, is an exploration of Swift as an evolving, boundary-pushing artist. The exhibition will feature original costumes, photographs, videos, and more representing several of her creative periods, or “eras.”
Highlights of the exhibition are eight costumes worn by Swift from her record-breaking albums Midnights, folklore, Red (Taylor’s Version) and Fearless (Taylor’s Version).
Where: Arlington Museum of Art, 201 West Main Street, Arlington
When: June 3 - Sept. 24
Cost: $20 for adults, $15 for seniors, $15 for youth, $5 for kids
More Info: https://arlingtonmuseum.org/
Theatre Arlington's 50th Anniversary Gala
Theatre Arlington is celebrating 50 years with a huge gala on Saturday night. The evening features a Special Performance by Major Attaway, star of Broadway’s Aladdin.
Where: Hereford University Center, 300 W 1st St, Arlington
When: Saturday, Sept. 16 at 6:30 p.m.
Cost: $150 and up
More Info: https://theatrearlington.org/annual-gala/
Viva Mexico
Maestro Héctor Guzmán and the Plano Symphony are joined by members of the Ballet Folklórico de México to open the season with a fantastic celebration of music and culture honoring Mexican Independence Day. Expect popular and classical Hispanic music as well as spectacular dance selections to keep the party going and make the evening a celebration like no other!
Where: Eisemann Center for Performing Arts, Richardson
When: Saturday, Sept. 16 at 8 p.m.
Cost: $27 and up
More Info: https://planosymphony.org/viva-mexico/