Things To Do Around DFW: North Texas Irish Fest, Monster Jam, TEXFest and much more

Monster Jam
Photo credit Star Tribune via Getty Images / Contributor Getty Imags

It's going to be a beautiful weekend in North Texas and there are lots of fun things to do around town.

Beetlejuice

He earned his stripes on Broadway… now the ghost-with-the-most is coming to Dallas.

It’s showtime! Based on Tim Burton’s dearly beloved film, this hilarious musical tells the story of Lydia Deetz, a strange and unusual teenager whose whole life changes when she meets a recently deceased couple and a demon with a thing for stripes. With an irreverent book, an astonishing set, and a score that’s out of this Netherworld, BEETLEJUICE is “SCREAMINGLY GOOD FUN!” (Variety). And under its uproarious surface (six feet under, to be exact), it’s a remarkably touching show about family, love, and making the most of every Day-O!

Where: Music Hall at Fair Park, Dallas

When: Feb 27-March 3

Cost: $30 and up

More info: https://dallas.broadway.com/shows/beetlejuice/

Billy Bob’s: KAT HASTY (Fri) / KIN FAUX (Sat)

Where: Billy Bob’s Fort Worth
When: Friday at 10 p.m., Saturday at 10 p.m.

Cost: $18-$20

More info: https://billybobstexas.com/events

Bread N' Gravy: The Songs and Life of Ethel Waters

Explore the captivating journey of Ethel Waters, the legendary singer and actress, in this biographical production. Delve into her humble beginnings, navigate alongside her entry into show business, and witness her extraordinary ascent to stardom. Be part of the compelling narrative that unfolds the life of Ethel Waters, a trailblazing figure who became one of the first African American women to achieve unparalleled success both on Broadway and in Hollywood.

Where: Jubilee Theatre, 3925, 506 Main St, Fort Worth

When: February 29-March 3

Cost: $30 - $40

More info: https://www.jubileetheatre.org/show/bread-n-gravy/

Brilliants from Texas Ballet Theater

Without Borders
Traverse the boundary between the neoclassical and contemporary in this compelling work that explores the powers of perspective and individualism.

Grand Pas Classique
Ballet in its purest form, Grand Pas Classique reveals the inherent tension between artistry and physicality.

Le Corsaire Pas de Deux
Inspired by Lord Byron’s epic poem of an amorous pirate, Le Corsaire Pas de Deux smartly captures the jaunty bravado of the swaggering seaman.

Rubies
A kaleidoscope of color and movement, Balanchine’s exhilarating Rubies sparkles as vividly as the jewel itself.

Where: Dee and Charles Wyly Theatre, Dallas

When: March 1-3

Cost: $20 and up

More info: https://texasballettheater.org/performance/brilliants-2023/

Cabaret

It’s 1929 in a seedy Berlin nightclub, where romance and hedonism thrive. As the Third Reich emerges, trouble is everywhere, even in the Cabaret.

Where: Theatre Arlington, 305 W Main St, Arlington

When: February 29-March 3

Cost: $35 and up

More info: https://theatrearlington.org/production/__cabaret2024/

Dallas Blooms: A Picture's Worth a Thousand Words

It’s the largest annual floral festival in the SouthwestThis spectacular event showcases 500,000 spring blooming bulbs, representing 120 varieties, with a breathtaking display of 350,000 tulips and a mix of hyacinths and daffodils. As the festival unfolds, the garden transforms with vibrant azaleas and cherry trees, creating a stunning burst of color. This year’s theme, ‘A Picture’s Worth a Thousand Words,’ brings larger-than-life living selfie walls, adding a fun photo opportunity to the Dallas Blooms experience.

Where: Dallas Arboretum, 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas

When: February 24-April 8

Cost: $22 - Adults / $18 - Seniors (65+) / $13 - Child (2-12) / Free (Child under 2)

More info: https://www.dallasarboretum.org/events-activities/dallas-blooms/

Dancing with the Stars: Live

The name says it all. It’s a star-studded night of dancing in Grand Prairie.

Where: Texas Trust CU Theatre, Grand Prairie

When: Friday, March 1 at 8:00 p.m.

Cost: $39 and up

More info: https://www.dwtstour.com/

Deep Ellum First Friday

It’s a celebratory night for art, food, music and culture in historic Deep Ellum on the first Friday of every month. Sip & Shop with complementary mocktails, do a pedal bike progressive happy hour, participate in the Murals and Margs mural tour, or enjoy the Live Art Series with Melanie Hardy Mcvey.

Where: Deep Ellum, Dallas

When: Friday, March 1 from 5-8 pm (Also April 5)

Cost: Free

More info: https://deepellumfirstfridays.com/

DSO: The Book with Seven Seals

Fabio Luisi leads the late-Romantic composer’s magnum opus, a towering oratorio that tackles no less a subject than the Bible’s Book of Revelation — the Apocalypse — a prophetic vision of the final violent destruction of the world. The DSO, soloists, massive chorus, and organ solos on the Lay Family Concert Organ depict the breaking of the seals, the Horsemen of the Apocalypse, the seven trumpets summoning souls to the Last Judgment, and, finally, the message of salvation and an ecstatic “Hallelujah.” Monumental, riveting, unforgettable! With English supertitles.

Where: Meyerson Symphony Center, Dallas

When: March 1-3

Cost: $45

More info: https://www.dallassymphony.org/productions/the-book-with-seven-seals/

FWBG: Butterflies in the Garden


Witness the magnificent transformation of nature and marvel at the sight of brilliantly colored living jewels fluttering in the Rainforest Conservatory of Fort Worth Botanic Garden during Butterflies in the Garden. It’s the largest exhibit of live, exotic butterflies in North Central Texas. Exhibit visitors will have the chance to see a diverse collection of butterflies from various parts of the world, including Central, North and South America, Africa, and Asia. The Blue Morpho (Morpho peleides), known for its striking beauty, is one of the most popular butterflies on display. Additionally, local favorites will also be showcased.

Where: Fort Worth Botanic Garden, 3220 Botanic Garden Blvd, Fort Worth

When: March 1 - April 14

Cost: $12

More info: https://fwbg.org/calendar-events/signature-events/butterflies-in-the-garden/

FWBG: Dinosaurs Around the World: The Great Outdoors

See Dinosaurs Around the World, Jan. 26 through May 30. Created in collaboration with a world-renowned dinosaur paleontologist, Dr. Gregory M. Erickson, this outdoor exhibit will feature advanced animatronic dinosaurs from every continent, a multi-layered narrative, and cutting-edge research for visitors to explore. Travel back to the Age of Reptiles and experience what it was like when dinosaurs walked the Earth!

Where: Fort Worth Botanic Garden, 3220 Botanic Garden Blvd, Fort Worth

When: January 26 - May 30

Cost: Included with general admission: $6 - $12

More info: https://fwbg.org/events/dinosaurs/

FWBG: Seward Johnson Sculptures in the Garden

Twenty-one life-size sculptures by the late artist Seward Johnson will be on display throughout the Garden, Mar. 1 – Sept. 1,  2024. This head-turning exhibit of “living” art will take Garden guests by surprise as they encounter sculptures that fool the eye and beg for double takes. Strategically placed to blend with their surroundings, Mr. Johnson’s unique creations strive to make everyday occurrences special and bring classic art to life.

Where: Fort Worth Botanic Garden, 3220 Botanic Garden Blvd, Fort Worth

When: March 1 - September 1

Cost: Included with general admission: $6 - $12

More info: https://fwbg.org/events/seward-johnson-sculptures/

FWMSH: “Black Cowboys: An American Story”

Did you know that one of four cowboys who went on the trail was Black?  Black Cowboys: An American Story explores the lives and work of the numerous Black men, women and children – enslaved and free – who labored on the ranches of Texas and participated on cattle drives before the Civil War through the turn of the twentieth century.

This powerful exhibition features artifacts, photographs and documents depicting the work and skills of Black cowboys.  Black Cowboys: An American Story offers insight into legendary cowboys, a clearer picture of the Black West and a more diverse portrait of the American West.

Where: Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, Fort Worth

When: January 23 - April 13

Cost: Included with general admission: $12 - $16

More info: https://www.fwmuseum.org/calendar/black-cowboys/

FWSO’s Jennifer Corning Lucio: Beethoven, Vaughan Williams, and Carlos Simon

Wagner described Beethoven’s seventh symphony as the “Apotheosis of the Dance.” It’s a spot-on description — the music moves and breathes and exults and laments, one of Beethoven’s finest and best-loved orchestral works. For this concert, renowned conductor Jane Glover teams up with FWSO’s principal oboist Jennifer Corning Lucio for Ralph Vaughn Williams’ haunting Oboe Concerto, a work in which each movement ends as it began. Finally, the orchestra completes the program with a work by composer Carlos Simon, composer-in-residence at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

Where: Bass Performance Hall, Fort Worth

When: March 1 - March 3

Cost: $26 and up

More Info

Funbox: The World's Biggest Bounce Park (Frisco and Hurst)

Just in time for great spring weather, Funbox brings their big bounce parks to locations in Collin County and Tarrant County. Enjoy 10 different play zones including the Mountain Challenge, Battle Beam, Gumball Gallop, Obstacle Course, Ninja Wall, 23 Foot Slide and a Chill Zone. Tickets are good for an 80 minute bounce session.

Where: Stonebriar Centre, 2601 Preston Rd, Frisco (Opens March 1)
Where: North East Mall, Hurst (Opens March 8)

When: March 1 - June 2

Cost: $19 - $35

More Info: https://funbox.com/frisco & https://funbox.com/hurst

Garland’s Music Made Here: Gary P. Nunn

Gary P. Nunn will bring the heart and soul of Texas country to the Downtown Garland Square Main Stage. Garland's Music Made Here Concert Series presents a true legend of Lone Star music. With a career spanning over four decades, Gary P. Nunn has been at the forefront of Texas country music since the 1970s. Nunn runs his own record label and publishing companies. From the timeless classic "London Homesick Blues" to his latest masterpiece, "Taking Texas to the Country," his music reflects love, sorrow, travel, and cultural influences, showcasing his remarkable versatility and emotional depth. Take your chance to witness this Texas music legend live in action! He’ll be joined by opener Guthrie Kennard.

Where: Downtown Garland, 117 N Glenbrook Dr, Garland

When: Friday, March 1 at 7 p.m.

Cost: Free

More Info: https://www.visitgarlandtx.com/music-made-here

Latin American Film Festival of Dallas

LAFFD has put together its inaugural program. After scouring the world for the best current Latin American cinema, they’re bringing the flicks to DFW over four days this weekend. You can find out more about the 2024 programming here.

Where: Spacy (inside Tyler Station), 1300 S Polk St #160a, Dallas

When: February 29 - March 3

Cost: $10 a showing

More Info: https://www.laffd.com/index.html

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: Daily

Cost: $40 and up

More Info: https://meowwolf.com/

Monster Jam

Get ready for the ultimate thrill ride at Monster Jam! These custom machines pack a punch, boasting 1,500 to 2,000 horsepower. At Monster Jam, fearless drivers take the wheel of these monsters, showcasing their skills in epic battles of speed and agility. These drivers are true athletes, mastering the art of controlling these massive machines, pulling off jaw-dropping stunts like backflips and two-wheel tricks at speeds reaching 70 miles per hour! But the fun doesn't stop there! Before the main event, fans can dive into the excitement at the Monster Jam Pit Party. Get up close with the trucks, meet your favorite drivers, snag autographs, snap some pics, and enjoy tons of family-friendly activities.

Where: AT&T Stadium, Arlington

When: Saturday, March 2 at 6:00 p.m.

Cost: $43 and up

More Info: https://www.monsterjam.com/en-us/events/arlington-tx/mar-02-2024-mar-02-2024/

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: August 25-March 31

Cost: $34.50

More Info: https://thenazarenexp.com/

North Texas Irish Festival
North Texas Irish Festival Dances a Jig into Dallas’s Fair Park March 1-3. This family-friendly weekend festival celebrates the best in music, dance, food and spirits, storytelling, art and more. Bring your family, friends – even the family dog! – to Fair Park in Dallas to enjoy 10 stages of live music, Irish step dancing, chef demonstrations and more, indoors and outdoors. Guests will also enjoy beer and whiskey tastings (for 21+), shopping, horse shows, sheep herding demonstrations, animal rescue groups, child-friendly entertainment, and free arts and crafts for the kids. This indoor-outdoor festival takes place rain or shine. By the way, there’s a special North Texas Irish Festival Fun Run, a jaunt through the beautiful grounds of Fair Park on Saturday, March 2, at 8 a.m.
Where: Fair Park, Dallas
When: March 1-3
Cost: $10 - $45
More Info: https://www.ntif.org/

Olivia Rodrigo
International pop superstar Olivia Rodrigo brings her Guts World Tour to Dallas and the American Airlines Center. She’ll be joined by Chappell Roan.
Where: American Airlines Center, Dallas
When: Friday, March 1 at 8:00 p.m.
Cost: SOLD OUT - Find ticket on resale market
More Info: https://www.americanairlinescenter.com/events/detail/olivia-rodrigo
Once at Casa Mañana
From the very first note, Once draws you in and never lets go. This emotionally captivating musical is the only show to have music that won an Academy Award, a Grammy Award, an Olivier Award and a Tony Award. This show is suitable for mature audiences due to strong language.

Where: Casa Mañana, 3101 W Lancaster Ave, Fort Worth

When: March 2-10

Cost: $29 and up

More Info: https://secure.casamanana.org/events/once

Oscar-Nominated Short Films
If you’re not sure how to catch all those Oscar-Nominated short films, Magnolia at the Modern presents the nominated films in both the Animated and Live Action categories all in one sitting. You’ll be super cultured and in-the-know after these showings!

Where: Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, 3200 Darnell St, Fort Worth

When: March 1-3

Cost: $7-$10

More Info: https://www.themodern.org/film/2024-oscar-nominated-short-films

Pépito - from the Dallas Opera

This opera is perfect for the family! Get out your pencils—you’ll want to keep track of this one! Manuelita loves Pépito, but he’s away at war. She captures the attention of many, but she is determined to be true to her love. That is, until a letter arrives from Pépito and turns everything topsy-turvy! This one-act comedy is full of fun, charm, and delightful music.

Join us for this special performance, sung in English, and designed for audiences aged 3 and up! Pépito is just under 60 minutes (with no intermission!), making this the perfect family show! All seating is general admission at the beautiful Winspear Opera House. Featuring The Dallas Opera Orchestra.

Where: Winspear Opera House, Dallas

When: March 2 at 2 p.m.

Cost: $5

More Info: https://dallasopera.org/performance/pepito-2324/

Romeo and Juliet - from the Dallas Opera

Lush melodies, dazzling arias, and a love story for the ages
The Montague and Capulet families have been feuding in Verona for hundreds of years. But when Romeo meets Juliet at a masked ball, they fall innocently, and tragically, in love. Shakespeare’s greatest love story takes on new life with Gounod’s rapturously romantic score. Its stunning melodies, grand choruses—and the Dallas Opera debut of Golda Schultz—will leave you wondering “Did my heart love till now?”

Where: Winspear Opera House, Dallas

When: March 1, March 3, March 6, March 9

Cost: $38

More Info: https://dallasopera.org/performance/romeo-and-juliet/

Stolen Shakespeare Guild: Romeo and Juliet & Much Ado About Nothing

Stolen Shakespeare Guild presents one of the most famous love stories ever written. Immerse yourself in the epic tale of two star crossed lovers from feuding families who dare risk everything for love. With thrilling sword fights, stirring poetry, and heartbreaking tragedy, this timeless masterpiece continues to captivate audiences centuries after its creation.
Where: Stolen Shakespeare Guild, 1300 Gendy St, Fort Worth
When: (Romeo & Juliet) March 1-2; March 7; March 9
When: (Much Ado…) Feb 29; March 2-3; March 8-10
Cost: $16 and up
More info

The Sum of Us One Act Festival

Join Bishop Arts Theatre for the 3rd annual banned books festival, presenting THE SUM OF US ONE-ACT FESTIVAL. It’s a collection of short plays by six local playwrights inspired by Heather McGhee’s brilliant analysis, exploring the far-reaching costs of racism and the path to healing as a community. Author McGhee and Dr. Gail Christopher will attend the March 15th performance and both the matinee and evening performances on March 16th. The author will also participate in a post-show conversation and book signing.

Where: Bishop Arts Theatre Center, Dallas

When: February 29-March 3; March 8-10; March 15-17

Cost: $18 and up

More Info: https://bishopartstheatre.org/event/the-sum-of-us-one-act-festival/

Texas Independence Day Celebration

The Grapevine Historical Society, in partnership with the Grapevine Convention & Visitors Bureau, will commemorate Texas Independence Day at a family-friendly event in the heart of Historic Downtown Grapevine. This year they are celebrating 180 Years on the Grape Vine Prairie with their Big & Bright 180th Birthday Bash. Stop by to see vintage vehicles on display starting at 10 a.m. There are historic exhibits debuting at 11 a.m. Enjoy a “Chuck Wagon Chili Lunch” at noon (first come, first served), and the 1924 feature film “Peter Pan” at 2 p.m.

Where: Downtown Grapevine, 530 S Main St, Grapevine

When: Saturday, March 2 at 10 a.m.

Cost: Free

More Info

TEXFest

Bring your boots and your buckles for a Texas-sized good time in Carrollton! This event offers a beer garden with local craft beer vendors, live Texas music, a mouthwatering food village, and photo ops with a live longhorn.

Where: Downtown Carrollton

When: Saturday, March 2 from 3 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Cost: Free

More info

Town For Sale

In this show…a secluded resort town has passed its prime, and the current residents are stuck in a place which could disappear from the map at any time. Known originally for its magical healing spring water, the town now sits relatively vacant of tourists, with only a few locals working the only remaining hotel. A stranger arrives with a mysterious plan, and he is quickly caught up in a mistaken identity. Can his intentions be unraveled before the town disappears for good? A magical world of bright characters, bizarre turns, and delicious music awaits!

Where: Ochre House Theater, 825 Exposition Ave, Dallas

When: February 28-March 2

Cost: $12-$17

More info: https://ochrehousetheater.org/

Yanga from Cara Mía Theatre

Cara Mía Theatre and Soul Rep Theatre in association with Mulato Teatro from Mexico present the English Language Premiere of Yanga. Jaime Chabaud’s Yanga is inspired by the real-life story of Gaspar Yanga, an enslaved African Prince who led a rebellion and successfully negotiated an independent territory with the Spanish crown less than 100 years after the arrival of Hernán Cortés in Mexico. Translated to English for the first time, Yanga sheds light on the history of the Afro-Mexican experience. Yanga contains adult language and suggested sexual violence.

Where: Latino Cultural Center, 2600 Live Oak St, Dallas

When: February 29-March 3

Cost: $12 and up

More info: https://caramiatheatre.org/play/yanga/

LISTEN on the Audacy App
Tell your Smart Speaker to "PLAY 1080 KRLD"
Sign Up to receive our KRLD Insider Newsletter for more news
Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube

Featured Image Photo Credit: Star Tribune via Getty Images / Contributor Getty Imags