It should be a beautiful weekend to be outside across North Texas, with art festivals in Dallas and Fort Worth, the Ennis Bluebonnet Trails Festival, and comedy in Deep Ellum. Plus, the American Rodeo Championship comes to Arlington.
DSO: Stravinksy's The Rite of Spring
It starts with a bassoon solo, and before long there is a profusion of twitters, plucked strings and pounding of pagan drums…like all manner of life forms breaking through the frozen crust of the Russian landscape as pulsing rhythms and primitive rituals proclaim the veneration of spring. It's The Rite of Spring, the iconic work that changed classical music forever and even today continues to be a thrilling, visceral experience. Abandon yourself to its raw energy and revel in its electrifying intensity as Aziz Shokhakimov, Music Director of Strasbourg Philharmonic Orchestra, guest conducts the DSO. Jörgen van Rijen solos in Samy Moussa's Concerto for Trombone and Orchestra, "Yericho." Opening the concert, Rimsky-Korsakov dazzles you with colorful evocations of Spain.
Where: Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, Dallas
When: April 10-12
Cost: $57 and up
More info: https://www.dallassymphony.org/productions/stravinskys-the-rite-of-spring/
DSO (Coming Soon): The Princess Bride© in Concert
"As you wish…" Fencing, fighting, torture, revenge, giants, monsters, chases, escapes, true love, miracles… Experience one of the most beloved films of all time as never before… with the power of a full symphony orchestra performing the entire musical score live-to-picture! Directed by Rob Reiner, The Princess Bride features an all-star cast including Robin Wright, Cary Elwes, Wallace Shawn, Mandy Patinkin, Chris Sarandon, Billy Crystal, Carol Kane, Christopher Guest, Fred Savage and André the Giant. The great Peter Falk narrates this romantic tale of the beautiful maiden, Buttercup, and her one true love, a young farmhand named Westley. After he's captured by a ruthless pirate and presumed dead, Buttercup's unhappy marriage to the horrible Prince Humperdinck seems inevitable. But before the wedding can take place, she's kidnapped by three outlaws and it's up to a mysterious Man in Black to come to her rescue… Now for the first time, composer Mark Knopfler's unforgettable score has been specially arranged for a symphony orchestra. Missing this cinematic concert experience would be inconceivable! So, in the words of Miracle Max… "Have fun stormin' the castle!"
Where: Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, Dallas
When: Friday, April 25 at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, April 26 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, April 27 at 3 p.m.
Cost: $55 and up
More info: https://www.dallassymphony.org/productions/the-princess-bride-in-concert/
Almost, Maine
Welcome to Almost, Maine, a place that's so far north, it's almost in Canada. It's not quite a town, because its residents never got around to getting organized. So, it almost doesn't exist. One cold, clear, winter night, as the northern lights hover in the star-filled sky above, the residents of Almost, Maine, find themselves falling in and out of love in unexpected and hilarious ways.
Where: Coppell Arts Center, 505 Travis St, Coppell
When: April 11-13
Cost: $22
More info: https://www.coppellartscenter.org/events/detail/2025-almost-maine
The American Rodeo Championship Weekend
Country music stars Bailey Zimmerman, Riley Green, and Ella Langley headline The American Rodeo. The event features competitors in all eight traditional rodeo disciplines. Fans can root for the underdog "Contenders" chasing a cash bonus and the professional athletes chasing their championship crown.
Where: Globe Life Field, Arlington
When: April 11 and April 12
Cost: $29 and up
More info: https://americanrodeo.com/american-rodeo/
Arlington Museum of Art: Princess Diana: Accredited Access Exhibition & Wicked Threads: The Artistry of Costume in Oz
Following the release of the highly anticipated film, the Arlington Museum of Art debuts a collection of costumes from Wicked (2024) celebrating the artistry of the costume design and twenty-one years of the beloved Broadway musical Wicked.
Where: Arlington Museum of Art, 1200 Ballpark Way, Arlington
When: January 17 - April 27
Cost: Free
More info: https://arlingtonmuseum.org/
Arts in Bloom in McKinney
The Arts In Bloom Festival returns to Historic Downtown McKinney, bringing a lively blend of creativity, music, and flavor to its charming tree-lined streets. Over 120 juried artists will display their work near the McKinney Performing Arts Center, with the festival unfolding among vintage buildings, boutique shops, cozy cafés, and buzzing bars. Guests can browse fine art, enjoy live performances ranging from jazz to country, and sample wines from across Texas. Wine lovers can upgrade their experience with a tasting package that includes 12 pours and a souvenir glass. The weekend also features art demos by local creatives and a Kids Creation Station for hands-on fun. Admission is free, and wine tastings are available for pre-order.
Where: Downtown McKinney
When: April 11-13 / Friday 5 - 10 p.m. / Saturday 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. / Sunday 12 - 5 p.m.
Cost: Free
More info: https://www.mckinneytexas.org/687/Arts-in-Bloom
Big Texas Beer Fest
Big Texas Beer Fest, the largest craft beer event in the state, brings together more than 65 breweries offering over 300 different beers to try. General admission includes 12 two-ounce samples, with the option to grab 12 more for just $5, while VIP ticket holders enjoy early access, a keepsake sampling glass, and a swag bag. The festival also features an outdoor pavilion with live music from local DFW bands, food trucks, and vintage arcade games courtesy of Free Play Arcade. Proceeds from the event support the North Texas Food Bank.
Where: Automobile Building, Fair Park, Dallas
When: Saturday, April 12 at 3 p.m.
Cost: $45 and up
More info: https://www.bigtexasbeerfest.com/home/
Billy Bob's: Huser Brothers (Thursday), Chris Young (Friday & Saturday)
Where: Billy Bob's Fort Worth
When: Thursday at 9 a.m., Friday at 10 p.m., Saturday at 10 p.m.
Cost: Huser Brothers ($15-$25) / Chris Young ($30-$100)
More info: https://billybobstexas.com/events
Bugs LIVE!
A fascinating new exhibition of giant spiders, beetles, and butterflies is taking over the Heard's nature trails—and these larger-than-life creatures aren't just for show. They're animatronic, meaning you'll see them come to life, moving their limbs and fluttering their wings! The exhibit is included with general admission.
Where: Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary, McKinney
When: March 15 - June 29
Cost: Adults - $15 / Child (3-12) - $11 / Seniors - $11
More info: https://www.heardmuseum.org/bugs-live/
Changing Perspectives Block Party
As part of Dallas Arts Month, the Dallas Arts District presents the annual Changing Perspectives Block Party—a free, family-friendly celebration of creativity and culture. Headlining this year's event is SWAY, an acclaimed vertical dance company from Australia known for transforming streets into stages with their gravity-defying sway-pole performances that fuse dance, theater, and circus arts. The block party also highlights the sounds of award-winning Tejano artist Monica Saldivar, live mural painting by community artist Lashonda Cooks, and a vibrant mix of food trucks and hands-on activities. Ahead of the festivities, the Dallas Arts District is teaming up with Dallas ISD to host a special STEAM-focused lecture demonstration by SWAY at Sammons Park, giving hundreds of students a front-row look at the innovation behind their breathtaking performances.
Where: Sammons Park, 2403 Flora St, Dallas
When: Friday, April 11 from 6:30 p.m. – 11:30pm
Cost: Free
More info: https://www.dallasartsdistrict.org/2025changingperspectivesblockparty/
CityLine Live Music Series in Richardson
Enjoy a selection of free concerts on Fridays and Saturdays in April and May. This weekend it's John Herbert on Friday night and RCN Jazz Band on Saturday night.
Where: CityLine, 1415 State St, Richardson
When: Friday, April 11 at 6 p.m. and Saturday, April 12 at 6 p.m.
Cost: Free
More info: https://citylinedfw.com/events/cityline-live-spring-musician-lineup/
Dallas Art Fair
The 2025 Dallas Art Fair invites art lovers, collectors, and professionals to explore a vibrant mix of modern and contemporary works from over 90 galleries representing more than 20 countries. This year's lineup includes international standouts like OMR from Mexico City, Canada Gallery from New York, Koki Arts from Tokyo, and LBF Contemporary from London, alongside returning favorites such as Perrotin, Alexander Berggruen, and Josh Lilley. Texas is well represented too, with Austin-based galleries Ivester Contemporary and Martha's adding to the dynamic blend of global and local perspectives.
Where: Fashion Industry Gallery, 1807 Ross Ave, Dallas
When: April 11-13 (Friday/Saturday 11a-7p / Sunday 11a-5p)
Cost: $36 (One Day General Admission) / $75 (Three Day)
More info: https://www.dallasartfair.com/
Dallas Blooms: Outside the Ordinary
It's a right of Spring in Dallas…Dallas Blooms returns with over 500,000 spring-blooming bulbs, including 350,000 tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, and cherry blossoms, evolving weekly with vibrant azaleas and cherry trees. This year's "Outside the Ordinary" theme features life-size, hyper-realistic bronze sculptures by the late Seward Johnson, known for capturing everyday moments with depth and realism.
Where: Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas
When: February 22 - April 23
Cost: $22-$26
More info: https://www.dallasarboretum.org/events-activities/dallas-blooms/
Dallas Indie Comedy Fest
Dallas Indie Comedy Festival is April 11-13. DICF is bringing the funny straight from the underground, the weird, and the unknown to the forefront of the Dallas comedy scene. With an emphasis on Improv, Sketch, and Experimental Comedy, this three-day event includes workshops, community socials, and live comedy performances featuring some of the funniest comedians from DFW and all across the nation.
Where: Deep Ellum Art Co., 3200 Commerce St, Dallas
When: April 11-13
Cost: $20 and up
More Info: https://www.dallasindiecomedyfest.com/
Darkfield: Séance, Flight, and Coma
The AT&T Performing Arts Center & Realscape Productions bring Darkfield, an immersive audio experience that blurs the line between reality and imagination. Staged inside custom-built shipping containers, Darkfield uses 360-degree binaural sound and sensory effects to transport audiences into unsettling, pitch-black worlds. Three experiences—Séance, Flight, and Coma—challenge perception in different ways. Séance places audiences inside a Victorian séance room where the unknown may be summoned. Flight replicates an airline cabin, exploring the Many-Worlds Interpretation of quantum mechanics, where two realities unfold simultaneously. Coma invites participants to lie down together in a mass experiment, blurring the line between waking and dreaming.
Where: Sammons Park, 2403 Flora St, Dallas
When: March 21 - June 22
Cost: $25 - $60
More Info: https://attpac.org/darkfield
Don Quixote from Ballet North Texas
Ballet North Texas presents the world premiere of Don Quixote, a new take on the classic tale inspired by Miguel de Cervantes' novel. Directed by Artistic Director Nicolina Lawson, the production blends vivid storytelling, original sets and costumes by local artists, and spirited choreography to trace the whimsical journey of Don Quixote and his squire Sancho Panza, alongside the love story of Kitri and Basilio. Set against a backdrop of sun-drenched Spanish landscapes, this reimagined version brings fresh energy to a well-loved ballet.
Where: Moody Performance Hall, 2520 Flora St, Dallas
When: April 11-13
Cost: $20 and up
More Info: https://www.balletnorthtexas.org/don-quixote
Downtown Dallas Arts & Music Festival
Celebrate Dallas Art Month while experiencing a dynamic blend of live performances, stunning visual art installations, and interactive workshops designed to inspire and captivate. Whether you're a music enthusiast, an art lover, or simply looking for a memorable day out, this festival offers something for everyone.
Where: Main Street Garden Park, 1902 Main St, Dallas
When: Friday, April 11 - Sunday, April 13
Cost: Free
More Info: https://www.ddamf.com/
Ennis Bluebonnet Trails Festival
The Ennis Bluebonnet Trails Festival returns with a weekend full of live music, family fun, and the breathtaking beauty of Texas wildflowers. Spanning 40 miles of scenic, mapped trails—the oldest of their kind in the state—the area bursts into bloom each April, offering visitors a chance to soak in vibrant fields of bluebonnets along peaceful country roads dotted with horses, longhorns, and shady trees. The festival itself brings the charm of small-town Texas to life with arts and crafts, unique shopping, kid-friendly attractions, local history at the railroad and cultural heritage museum, and plenty of food and drink, including a beer garden and the Ennis Education Foundation's Wine Wander featuring Texas wines.
Where: Ennis Welcome Center, 201 NW Main, Ennis
When: Friday, April 11 - Sunday, April 13
Cost: $5 (Free for kids 12 and under)
More Info: https://www.bluebonnettrail.org/
FWBG: Blooms & Beats
Experience unforgettable spring evenings at the Fort Worth Botanic Garden with Blooms & Beats! This family-friendly event is the perfect way to enjoy the beauty of spring blooms, live music, and delicious local food trucks in a stunning outdoor setting. Performing Live: Jimmy Barcus and His Rockabilly Band. There will be food trucks on-site and fun for all ages…including classic yard games.
Where: Fort Worth Botanic Garden, 3220 Botanic Garden Blvd, Fort Worth
When: Friday, April 11 at 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Cost: Adult - $15 / Child (6-15) - $6 / 5 and under Free
More Info: https://fwbg.org/full-calendar/blooms-beats-2/
FWBG: Butterflies in the Garden
Butterflies in the Garden returns to the Fort Worth Botanic Garden's Rainforest Conservatory from March 1 to April 30. This exhibit features a wide variety of live butterflies from around the world, including species from Central and South America, Africa, and Asia. Visitors can observe these colorful insects up close, including the striking Blue Morpho, one of the exhibit's highlights. Local butterfly species will also be on display. Ticket prices range from $8 to $22, with discounts available for FWBG members.
Where: Fort Worth Botanic Garden, 3220 Botanic Garden Blvd, Fort Worth
When: March 1 - April 30
Cost: $8 to $22
More Info: https://fwbg.org/events/
FWBG: Cracking Art
Cracking Art at the garden exhibit features 80 large animal sculptures made from regenerated plastic. Designed to captivate all ages, it blends creativity with a powerful message, inspiring joy and conversations about sustainability.
Where: Fort Worth Botanic Garden, 3220 Botanic Garden Blvd, Fort Worth
When: Now - September 1
Cost: Adult - $15 / Child (6-15) - $6 / 5 and under Free
More Info: https://fwbg.org/events/
FWSO: Wagner's The Flying Dutchman
Wagner's opera The Flying Dutchman is an eerie tale of redemption through love, set in the fearsome world of a ghost sea captain. To close out the symphonic season, the FWSO has assembled an all-star vocal cast and chorus to bring this spectral story to life in sharp relief, with all the tempestuousness and drama of Wagner's music distilled in a special semi-staged production. The Flying Dutchman is sung in German with English supertitles projected above the stage.
Where: Bass Performance Hall, Fort Worth
When: April 11-13
Cost: $26 and up
Fort Worth Art Fair
Discover a fresh celebration of local artists, built on shared experiences and meaningful curated moments, in the heart of Sundance Square. The Fort Worth Art Fair is a vibrant homage to Fort Worth's rich artistic legacy and a celebration of all things local: the city's art, music, cuisine, culture, and more.
Where: Sundance Square, Fort Worth
When: April 10-13
Cost: Free
More Info: https://www.fortworthartfair.com/
Intimate Apparel
Step into early 20th-century New York City with this captivating drama by Lynn Nottage, one of the greatest living playwrights and a two-time Pulitzer Prize winner. The story explores the journey of ambition and personal growth as Esther, an African-American seamstress, navigates a complex web of relationships and romantic correspondence with a distant admirer. Audiences are drawn into a rich tapestry of emotions and societal challenges.
Where: Theatre Three, Dallas
When: April 9-13 / April 17-20
Cost: $37 - $40
Godspell
Godspell was the first major musical theatre offering from three-time Grammy and Academy Award winner, Stephen Schwartz (Wicked, Pippin, Children of Eden), and it took the world by storm. Led by the international hit, "Day by Day," Godspell features a parade of beloved songs, including "Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord," "Learn Your Lessons Well," "All for the Best," "All Good Gifts," "Turn Back, O Man" and "By My Side."
Where: The Firehouse Theatre, 2535 Valley View Ln, Farmers Branch
When: April 10-13 / April 17-19
Cost: $38 and up
More info: https://ci.ovationtix.com/35214/production/1223368
Jekyll & Hyde
Jekyll & Hyde is a musical thriller based on the classic story by Robert Louis Stevenson, featuring a powerful pop-rock score by Frank Wildhorn and Leslie Bricusse. It follows Dr. Henry Jekyll, whose experiment to solve humanity's medical woes unleashes his violent alter ego, Mr. Hyde. As two women fall for the same man, neither knows the terrifying truth he's hiding.
Where: Lyric Stage, 1170 Quaker St, Dallas
When: April 11-13 / April 18-20
Cost: $30 and up
More info: https://www.lyricstage.org/season31
Jesus Christ Superstar
This dynamic rock opera is loosely based on the Gospels accounts of the days leading up to and including the crucifixion. Includes popular songs "Everything's Alright", "Superstar," and "I Don't Know How to Love Him."
Where: Theatre Denton, 214 W Hickory St, Denton
When: April 11-13
Cost: $20 - $27
More info: https://theatredenton.com/events/jesus-christ-superstar/2025-04-12/
Main St. Fort Worth Arts Festival
Get ready to rock the red bricks of Downtown Fort Worth! MAIN ST. Fort Worth Arts Festival is back, bringing you more incredible art than ever before – plus fantastic music and delicious food.
Where: Downtown Fort Worth
When: April 10-13
Cost: Free
More info: https://mainstreetartsfest.org/
Only Murders in the Building Escape Room
Step into the world of the critically acclaimed, multi-Emmy award-winning series and put your detective skills to the test as you work to recover a stolen film reel in just 60 minutes. The adventure unfolds with hidden bookcase doorways, secret passageways, and immersive elements that reflect key aspects of the show's beloved characters and storylines.
Where: The Escape Game, 3000 Grapevine Mills Parkway, Suite 604, Grapevine
When: February 8 - Limited Time
Cost: $40 and up
Peppa Pig Theme Park
Step into the world of Peppa Pig at the new Peppa Pig Theme Park, where families can immerse themselves in the playful adventures of their favorite characters. Kids can ride their first roller coaster with Daddy Pig, take to the skies in a hot air balloon, or set sail for Pirate Island with Grandad Dog. The park features lively play areas, including the Fun Fair, Mr. Potato's Showtime Arena, and a "Muddy Puddles" Splash Pad for endless jumping fun. Live entertainment brings the magic to life with singalongs and performances at Mr. Potato's Showtime Arena. Visitors can also stop by Mr. Fox's Shop for Peppa Pig-themed toys, apparel, and exclusive souvenirs. And when it's time for a snack, Miss Rabbit's Diner offers tasty bites to refuel for more oinktastic fun.
Where: PEPPA PIG Theme Park Dallas-Fort Worth, 8851 Blvd 26, North Richland Hills
When: Open 9a-5p daily
Cost: $28 and up
More Info: https://www.peppapigthemepark.com/
Reefer Madness
Inspired by the original 1936 film of the same name, this raucous musical comedy takes a tongue-in-cheek look at the hysteria caused when clean-cut kids fall prey to marijuana, leading them on a hysterical downward spiral filled with evil jazz music, sex and violence. Murphy "In terms of the tragedy, what is wonderful and unique about this country is the fact that you can poke fun at the institutions, at the ivory towers, and you don't get thrown into prison and you don't get shot and you don't get ostracized from society."
Where: The Art Centre Theatre, 1400 Summit Ave Suite E, Plano
When: April 11-13 / April 18-20 / April 25-27 / May 2-May 4
Cost: $20 and up
Info: https://www.artcentretheatre.com/fullseason
Shelter Me: An Original Rock Oratorio
In collaboration with Dallas Street Choir, Credo Community Choir, and University of Texas at Dallas Choir, 'Shelter Me' shines a light on homelessness.
Where: Eisemann Center, Richardson
When: April 12-13
Cost: $20 and up
Info: https://www.eisemanncenter.com/event?i=10587
Strut Your Mutt from the SPCA of Texas
Get ready to strut your stuff with your furry best friend at Strut Your Mutt, The Race to End Animal Cruelty. Strutters can participate in the 3K fun run/walk as an individual or part of a team. Plus, enjoy family-friendly food, drink and entertainment.
Where: Fair Park, Dallas
When: Saturday, April 12 at 7 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Cost: $35 and up
Info: https://spca.org/support-us/events/strut-your-mutt/#/form
Syndicate Smokedown & Music Festival
The Fort Worth Stock Show Syndicate's 4th Annual Syndicate Smokedown & Music Festival returns with a full day of barbecue and live music. BBQ Time ticket holders can enter at noon to sample smoked favorites from top pitmasters while enjoying live sets from The Georges, The Derailers, and Dale Watson. Barbecue tastings run from noon to 4 p.m., or while supplies last. At 4 p.m., doors open for Music Ticket holders, with all guests gaining access to the US Energy Main Stage featuring performances from Shelby Stone, Braxton Keith, 49 Winchester, and Treaty Oak Revival. Tickets range from $55 for music-only access to $100 for full BBQ and music admission.
Where: Fort Worth Stockyards Station, Fort Worth
When: Saturday, April 12 at Noon
Cost: $50 and up
Info: https://syndicatesmokedown.com/
Titanic: The Exhibition
Embark on an immersive, interactive tour of the Titanic with vast, jaw-dropping recreations of the ship's interior and exterior. Visit the dock from where the Titanic first sailed, explore the galleries and boiler room, take a look inside a millionaire's suite, stroll the exterior promenade deck under a starry night sky, and see the Grand Staircase with your own eyes.
Where: Pepper Square, 14856 Preston Rd, Dallas
When: April 9-13 / April 16-20 / April 23-27 / April 30-May 4 / May 7-11
Cost: $30 and up
Info: https://thetitanicexhibition.com/dallas/
Victory Over Violence Walk/Run
The 28th Annual Victory Over Violence Walk/Run features a USATF-certified 5K and a 1K Fun Run through Trinity Park. The event raises awareness and honors the strength of sexual assault survivors, supporting efforts to ensure all survivors have access to the help they need.
Where: Trinity Park Duck Pond, 2200 Trinity Park Dr, Fort Worth
When: Saturday, April 12 at 8 a.m.
Cost: $15 and up
Info: https://runsignup.com/Race/TX/FtWorth/VictoryOverViolence
Waitress
Jenna, a waitress and expert pie maker, is stuck in a small town and a loveless marriage. Faced with an unexpected pregnancy, Jenna fears she may have to abandon the dream of opening her own pie shop…until a baking contest in a nearby county and the town's handsome new doctor offer her a tempting recipe for happiness. Featuring music and lyrics by Grammy Award winner Sara Bareilles, Waitress is an uplifting and inspiring musical celebrating friendship, motherhood, and the magic of a well-made pie.
Where: Dee and Charles Wyly Theatre, 2400 Flora St, Dallas
When: April 15-20
Cost: $45 and up
Info: https://dallastheatercenter.org/shows/waitress/
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