Things To Do Around DFW: Monster Jam, haunted houses, 5Ks and more

The Monster Jam Pit Party at Nationwide Arena in Columbus, Ohio, on July 31, 2021.
The Monster Jam Pit Party at Nationwide Arena in Columbus, Ohio, on July 31, 2021. Photo credit Gaelen Morse/For the Columbus Dispatch via Imagn Content Services, LLC

If you're looking for things to do this weekend in North Texas, KRLD has you covered. There are plenty of things to do this weekend, including Monster Jam at AT&T Stadium, haunted houses all over North Texas, and several 5Ks.

The Amazing, Fabulous, and Spectacular Untruths of Juan Garcia

He’s got looks that kill, charm for days, and absolutely…no. grip. on. reality. Juan Garcia has returned to his hometown of Oaxaca, armed with grand tales and big dreams of becoming the city’s biggest celebrity. Watch as he weaves a tapestry of tall tales and misadventures, aiming to impress (and possibly confuse) everyone, particularly the lady of his misguided affections. As bills pile up and tired servants reach their limit, the stage is set for a comedy of errors that even Juan can’t lie his way out of. Fiction collides with truth in a spectacular night of theatre that promises to leave you breathless.

Where: Amphibian Stage, 120 S Main St, Fort Worth

When: October 24-27 / October 31-November 3

Cost: $17 and up

Info

Art Worth Festival

The Art Worth Festival celebrates artistic talent with over 80 artist displays, live demonstrations of various art disciplines, and classical music performances by local ensembles. The event showcases a diverse range of works by artists from across the U.S., including many from Texas and the local Fort Worth area.

Where: The Shops at Clearfork, 5188 Monahans Ave, Fort Worth

When: October 25-27

Cost: Free

More info: https://artworthfest.org/

Billy Bob’s: Tyler Hubbard (Friday) / Southall (Saturday)

Where: Billy Bob’s Fort Worth

When: Friday at 10 p.m., Saturday at 10 p.m.

Cost: $20 - $50

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

Chayanne: Bailemos Otra Vez Tour

Where: American Airlines Center

When: Friday, October 25 at 8 p.m.

Cost: $87 and up

More info: https://www.americanairlinescenter.com/events/detail/chayanne

Cutting Edge Haunted House

Cutting Edge Haunted House in Fort Worth, Texas, is a multi-story haunted attraction known for its terrifying live actors, special effects, and intense scares. Located in a 100-year-old abandoned meat packing plant in an area called “Hell’s Half Acre,” it uses the old equipment to create a chilling, realistic experience. Visitors spend an average of 55 minutes exploring this fright-filled venue.

Where: Cutting Edge Haunted House, 1701 E Lancaster Ave, Fort Worth

When: Oct 24-27 / Oct 29 - Nov 2

Cost: $30 and up

More info: https://www.cuttingedgehauntedhouse.com/

DMA: Frida: Beyond the Myth

Composed of over 60 works across media—paintings, drawings, prints, and photographs—the exhibitionwill explore the life of one of the 20th century’s most well-documented artists, who continues to elude our understanding of her as an individual.

Where: Dallas Museum of Art, 1717 N Harwood St, Dallas

When: August 21 - November 17

Cost: $20

More info: https://dma.org/art/exhibitions/frida-beyond-myth

DSO: Go Now! A Tribute to the Moody Blues

It’s the ultimate tribute to the iconic Moody Blues — put together by drummer Gordy Marshall who toured with the band for 25 years — as the DSO beautifully recreates the glory of one of their concerts with unforgettable hits like “Nights in White Satin,” “Tuesday Afternoon,” “Go Now,” “Isn’t Life Strange,” “I Know You’re Out There Somewhere” and “The Story In Your Eyes,” with the spectacular sound of some of today’s very best singers and instrumentalists and your Dallas Symphony.

Where: Meyerson Symphony Center, Dallas

When: October 25 at 26 at 7:30 p.m. / Sunday, October 27 at 3 p.m.

Cost: $28 and up

More info: https://www.dallassymphony.org/productions/go-now-the-music-of-the-moody-blues/

Dallas Arboretum - Autumn at the Arboretum: Texas Town

The 19th annual Autumn at the Arboretum showcases 100,000 pumpkins, gourds, and squash sourced from Floydada, the "Pumpkin Capital of Texas." Additionally, the event features 150,000 fall-blooming plants throughout the garden. This year’s Pumpkin Village is themed "Texas Town," offering visitors a glimpse into Texas pioneer life.

Where: Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas

When: September 21 - November 3

Cost: $13 - $22

More info: https://www.dallasarboretum.org/autumn-at-the-arboretum/

Dallas Arboretum - Cool Thursdays Concert Series

The Dallas Arboretum’s Cool Thursdays Concert Series is a great way to spend the evening in the gorgeous weather. October 24: Willie and Family, A Tribute to Willie Nelson; October 31: Emerald City, Dallas’ Favorite Party Band.

Where: Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas

When: Thursday nights September 26-October 31

Cost: $15 - $41

More info: https://www.dallasarboretum.org/events-activities/cool-thursdays-concert-series/

Dark Hour Haunted House

Whether you are a horror fan or an adrenaline seeker, trek into our bloody manor and deep dive into your worst fears! Try to escape the horror. Watch your back, the scariest creatures are coming for you. Will you survive the terror?

Where: Dark Hour Haunted House, 701 Taylor Dr, Plano

When: Fridays-Sundays from Oct 4 - Nov 2

Cost: $43 for General Admission / $86 for VIP

More info: https://darkhourhauntedhouse.com/

Denton's Day of the Dead Festival

Denton’s Day of the Dead Festival is an outdoor celebration held on Hickory and Industrial streets, blending the town's artistic community with a lively mix of fall traditions. The festival honors Día de los Muertos, Halloween, and the fall harvest with a creative lineup that includes the spooky "Cirque du Horror" cabaret, the quirky Coffin Races, and a lantern-lit twilight parade. It’s a vibrant gathering that celebrates art, music, and camaraderie, capturing the spirit of Denton’s unique cultural scene.

Where: Denton Square

When: Friday, October 25 at 6:15 p.m. / Saturday, October 26 from 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Cost: Free

More Info

Dinosaurs Live!

Visitors can explore a half-mile nature trail featuring eleven life-size animatronic dinosaurs that move and roar. The exhibit also includes interesting facts about various dinosaurs, stationary baby dinosaurs for kids to play on, and photo ops with a Tyrannosaurus rex and Pachyrhinosaurus. An outdoor hadrosaur fossil dig will inspire budding paleontologists. The exhibit is included with general admission and free for Heard Museum members.

Where: Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, McKinney

When: August 31 - February 19, 2025

Cost: $9-$12

More info

Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors

This laugh-out-loud, gender-bending romp is what happens when you take Bram Stoker’s legendary story and put it into a blender with Mel Brooks, Monty Python, and The 39 Steps! When her sister Mina falls ill with a mysterious disease of the blood, Lucy Westfeldt and her fiancé, Jonathan Harker, enlist the help of famed vampire hunter Doctor Jean Van Helsing. Their hunt for the elusive and seductive Count Dracula abounds with clever wordplay and quick-change antics.

Where: Kalita Humphreys Theater, 3636 Turtle Creek Blvd, Dallas

When: October 23-27; October 29-November 3

Cost: $27 and up

Info: https://dallastheatercenter.org/shows/dracula-a-comedy-of-terrors/

The Elaborate Entrance of Chad Deity

The play opens with an unlikely wrestling pair: Macedonio Guerra, a Puerto Rican "jobber," and Vigneshwar Paduar, an Indian-American from Brooklyn. Bonded by their love for wrestling, they find themselves cast as "terrorists" in the ring, a role that forces them to confront stereotypes and media narratives. Through this charged dynamic, the play explores themes of racism, politics, and identity, making the wrestling mat a battleground for silenced truths.

Where: Circle Theatre, 230 W 4th St, Fort Worth

When: October 24-26

Cost: $27 and up

Info: https://www.circletheatre.com/

Ennis Autumn Daze

Autumn Daze in Ennis returns for its 22nd year with over 15,000 pumpkins and a "Season of Harvest" theme. Visitors can explore the giant hay maze, pumpkin patch, and a pumpkin house, while kids enjoy carnival rides, pumpkin painting, and a huge corn pit. Adults can compete in a corn hole tournament for a $1,000 prize, and everyone can watch master pumpkin carvers, including Greg Butauski, transform pumpkins up to 3,000 pounds. There's also plenty of food, a beer garden, and shopping from local vendors.

Where: Ennis Welcome Center, 201 NW Main, Ennis

When: Friday, October 25 - Sunday, October 27

Cost: Free

More info

FWBG: Celebramos (Closing Weekend)

The Fort Worth Botanic Garden invites guests to ¡Celebramos! A Celebration of Latin American Culture & Heritage from September 14 through October 27, including performances and exhibitions, dining and shopping opportunities, and more.

Where: Fort Worth Botanic Garden, Fort Worth

When: Saturday, September 14  - October 27

Cost: $6-$12

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

FWSO: Jane Glover Conducts Mozart

In 2022, pianist Angela Hewitt was the only live performer for BBC Radio’s broadcasts after the funeral and committal of Queen Elizabeth II. An artist of rare sensitivity lands in Fort Worth to perform Mozart’s jubilant Piano Concerto No. 25, with all its fanfares and filigree, before conductor Jane Glover leads the orchestra in Mozart’s 31st symphony (“Paris”). Filling out the program are Benjamin Britten’s Suite on English Folk Tunes and Ravel’s Tombeau de Couperin (Grave of Couperin), written in memory of a French composer.

Where: Bass Performance Hall, Fort Worth

When: October 25-27

Cost: $26 and up

More info: https://fwsymphony.org/24-25-season/symphonic-series/jane-glover-conducts-mozart

Fright Fest at Six Flags

Six Flags Over Texas is the place for spine-chilling horror attractions during its annual Halloween event, Fright Fest. Visitors can immerse themselves in worlds inspired by iconic horror franchises like Saw, Stranger Things, The Conjuring, Trick 'r Treat, and Texas Chainsaw Massacre. Each experience brings nightmarish creatures to life, offering plenty of thrills for those seeking Halloween scares. For guests looking for lighter fare, daytime events such as Kids Boo Fest and Oktoberfest will provide family-friendly fun with autumnal activities and entertainment.

Where: Six Flags Over Texas, Arlington

When: Thursdays-Sundays now through November 3

Cost: Daily Ticket + Haunted Maze Pass starts at $60

More Info: https://www.sixflags.com/overtexas/events/fright-fest-2024

Frisco Arts 5K

The Frisco Arts Walk and Run takes place at Kaleidoscope Park, where participants can enjoy various arts performances along the scenic route, including musicians, dancers, actors, and visual artists. The event, organized by the Frisco Arts Foundation, is part of the organization's efforts to support advocacy, education, and outreach initiatives for the local arts community. Proceeds from the event will benefit these programs, aiming to strengthen the arts in Frisco. Participants are invited to walk, run, or engage with the performances throughout the 5K route.

Where: Kaleidoscope Park, 6635 Warren Pkwy, Frisco

When: Saturday, October 26 at 8:30 a.m.

Cost: $45

More Info: https://www.friscoarts.org/frisco-arts-walk-and-run

George W. Bush Presidential Center: Freedom Matters

Freedom Matters uses rare artifacts and historical documents, interactive activities, and personal perspectives to examine the concept of freedom: where it comes from, what it means, what free societies look like, and the role of the individual in protecting and spreading freedom around the world.

Where: George W. Bush Presidential Center, 2943 SMU Boulevard, Dallas

When: Daily through December 31, 2024

Cost: $20 - $26

More Info: https://www.bushcenter.org/events-and-exhibits/freedom-matters

Globe Life Field Halloween Festival

Globe Life Field will host its first-ever Halloween Festival, inviting guests onto the field for Halloween-themed fun and ballpark activities. Trick-or-treat stations, costume parades, and a chance to run the bases are just a few of the highlights. Attendees are encouraged to come in costume and bring their own bags for candy collecting. Other attractions include wiffle ball, face painting, yard games, guided tours, photo ops, and more, creating a family-friendly day of spooky fun at the home of the Texas Rangers.

Where: Globe Life Field, Arlington

When: Sunday, October 27 at Noon

Cost: $15 for kids, $25 for adults, 3 and under are free

More Info: https://globelifefield.com/event/halloween-festival-20241027/

Grape Jam Bluegrass Festival

The Grape Jam Bluegrass Festival returns to Grapevine on October 25 & 26, 2024, marking the 50th anniversary of the Southwest Bluegrass Club. Held at the Town Square Gazebo, this free event will feature live performances from bluegrass musicians across the region. Along with main stage acts, guests can enjoy intimate jam sessions at various locations, including the Historic Cotton Belt Depot, Willhoite’s patio, and Liberty Park. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets and experience the lively sounds of bluegrass in this family-friendly festival set in the heart of Grapevine.

Where: Gazebo Stage, 325 S. Main Street, Grapevine

When: Friday, October 25 at 6 p.m. and Saturday, October 26 at 11 a.m.

Cost: Free

More Info: https://www.southwestbluegrassclubdfw.org/grape-jam

Hangman's House of Horrors

This haunted spot at a 100+ year old military base that was built as a helium production plant in the early 1910's is one of the scariest places in DFW.

Where: Hangman's House of Horrors, 4400 Blue Mound Rd, Fort Worth

When: Oct 25-27 / Oct 29-Nov 2

Cost: $39 and up ($10 parking)

More Info: https://hangmans.com/

Haunted Shadows Lake Trail

Haunted Shadows Lake Trail in The Colony offers a spooky, self-guided walk through the woods along Lake Lewisville. This mile-long outdoor trail features creepy creatures like ghosts and werewolves lurking around every turn. Known for its dark, immersive atmosphere, it takes about 40-45 minutes to complete and is ideal for those seeking a serious scare.

Where: TOCA Soccer Center The Colony, 7801 Main St, The Colony

When: Oct 25-27 / Oct 31 - Nov 2

Cost: $30

More Info: https://hauntedshadowslaketrail.com/

J&F House of Terror

J & F House of Terror is a Haunted House Maze that changes every year, ensuring a new experience with each visit. This year, the attraction features a Fun House-themed maze, which promises to be the scariest one yet. The entire haunted house is indoors, so it will be open rain or shine, delivering intense scares throughout. While actors won't touch guests, the frights are designed to be thrilling in every situation.

Where: Firewheel Town Center, 245 Cedar Sage Dr, Garland

When: Oct 24-27 / Oct 30-Nov 2

Cost: $35 and up

More Info: https://jandfhouseofterror.com/

Junkyard Haunted House

Oak Cliff's only haunted house is back and scarier than ever. $25 gets you a 15-minute thrill ride through terror.

Where: Hattie Rankin Moore Park, 3122 N Winnetka Ave, Dallas

When: October 25-27 / October 31

Cost: $25

More Info: https://sites.google.com/view/junkyardhauntedhouse/home

Kirk Franklin: The Reunion Tour

Kirk Franklin: REUNION TOUR 2024 with Yolanda Adams, Marvin Sapp, Clark Sisters, and Fred Hammond

Where: Dickies Arena, Fort Worth

When: Sunday, October 27 at 7:00 p.m.

Cost: $80 and up

More Info: https://dickiesarena.com/event/2024-10-27-kirk-franklin/

La traviata

The deck is stacked against Violetta, the ill-fated heroine of this well-loved tragedy—a courtesan trying to turn her life around, she falls for the romantic Alfredo, but illness and family meddling thwart her one chance at happiness. The buoyant music dances through party scenes and tenderly carries the heartbroken lovers through longing and despair. This stylish new production is designed by Tony Award–winner Christopher Oram and directed by Louisa Muller in her Dallas Opera debut.

Where: Winspear Opera House, Dallas

When: October 26-27

Cost: $38 and up

More Info: https://dallasopera.org/performance/la-traviata-2024/

McKinney Monster Dash 5k

Come out in your best costumes! The 5K kicks off at 9am. Race to the finish line where you’ll receive your finisher medal and enjoy local vendors. There will also be a costume contest where you can show off your costume for prizes.

Where: The Stix Icehouse, McKinney

When: Sunday, October 26 at 8 a.m.

Cost: $45

More Info: https://www.sbghospitality.com/mckinney-monster-dash

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 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: $20 and up

More Info: https://meowwolf.com/

Minecraft Experience: Villager Rescue

The Minecraft Experience: Villager Rescue is making its world premiere in Plano this weekend. Designed as an immersive, real-world adventure, the experience allows fans to step into the Minecraft universe and participate in an interactive quest. Visitors will navigate through themed environments, solving puzzles and challenges as they try to rescue villagers from danger. This event marks the beginning of a global tour, with Dallas as its first stop, celebrating Minecraft's 15th anniversary. Fans of all ages can join the fun running through January 5.

Where: Parker Road Station, 2600 Archerwood St, Plano

When: October 18 - January 5

Cost: $32 and up

More info: https://www.minecraftexperience.com/

Monster Jam

Monster Jam is set for an action-packed weekend with thrilling stunts, intense battles, and high-flying competition. The event will mark the Texas debut of four new Marvel-themed trucks, including The Amazing Spider-Man, Iron Man, Black Panther, and Thor, all facing off for the first time. Fans will also see returning favorites like the iconic Grave Digger and the Arlington debut of Sparkle Smash. The trucks will compete in Freestyle, Skills, and Racing competitions, promising a weekend of edge-of-your-seat excitement.

Where: AT&T Stadium, Arlington

When: October 26 at 7:00 a.m.

Cost: $20 and up

More info: https://www.monsterjam.com/en-us/events/arlington-tx/oct-26-2024-oct-26-2024/

Moxley Manor Haunted House

Moxley Manor Haunted House returns this fall, offering three haunted attractions for one price. In addition to Moxley Manor, visitors can experience the 3D Haunted House Big Top Terror and Regan's Revenge. Recognized as one of DFW’s Scariest Haunted Houses in 2022 and a must-see haunted house in 2023, it continues to thrill and terrify guests.

Where: Moxley Manor Haunted House, 510 Harwood Rd, Bedford

When: Oct 24-27 / Oct 29-31

Cost: $37 and up

More info: https://moxleymanor.com/

The Parker House

There are three attractions including the original “Parker House,” where Mary Parker subjected her victims to torture. Then take an interactive ride through the property in specially equipped attack vehicles in “Outbreak,” where your mission is to defeat the zombies and save the world from all the chaos. And new for 2024, it’s Psycho Circus - where the toxic and deranged come out to play.

Where: The Parker House Haunted Attraction, 8550 W University Dr, Denton

When: October 24-27 / October 29-November 2

Cost: $24 and up

More info: https://www.hauntedhousedenton.com/

Pumpkin Nights

Pumpkin Nights in Arlington is a magical Halloween-themed event held at Howell Family Farms from September 19 through October 31. The experience features a half-mile walking trail lined with over 5,000 hand-carved glowing pumpkins, including themed areas like the Forbidden City, Pirate’s Cove, and a Día de los Muertos section. Visitors can also enjoy live entertainment, including fire dancing performances, and food from local vendors.

Where: Howell Family Farms, 4016 W Division St, Arlington

When: Sept 19 - Oct 31

Cost: Weekday - $15 - $22 / Weekends - $20 - $32

More info: https://pumpkinnights.com/dallas/

The Rocky Horror Show

In this cult classic, sweethearts Brad and Janet, stuck with a flat tire during a storm, discover the eerie mansion of Dr. Frank-N-Furter. There they meet a houseful of wild characters, including a rock-n-roll biker and a creepy butler, who are celebrating Dr. Frank-N-Furter's newest creation. Join as we once again do the Time Warp in this deliberately kitschy rock ’n’ roll sci-fi gothic musical!

Where: North Texas Performing Arts, 6121 W Park Blvd B216, Plano

When: October 25-27

Cost: $20 and up

More info: https://ntparep.org/shows/rocky-horror/

Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella (Youth Edition)

Experience the beloved musical adaptation of the classic fairy tale, including gorgeous music, an enchanted pumpkin and a glass slipper or two! When her wicked stepmother forbids it, Cinderella must find a way to attend the ball and meet Prince Charming – luckily her Fairy Godmother is there to lend a spell. This show is suitable for all audiences.

Where: Casa Mañana Theatre, Fort Worth

When: October 26-27

Cost: $19 and up

More info: https://casamanana.org/events/cinderella/

Screams Halloween Theme Park

Screams Halloween Theme Park offers the ultimate Halloween experience in DFW with five uniquely themed haunted houses, including the newly redesigned TerraMythica Castle and updated frights in the others. Beyond the haunted houses, enjoy walk-through attractions like Cool Ghoul Boolevard and Rottingwood Cemetery, live stage shows, Scary-Oke, and the Monster Museum. Grab a bite from food trucks or various eateries, and those 21+ can visit one of the seven pubs. All attractions are included with admission, and Fast Passes are available to cut haunted house wait times in half. Designed for ages 16+, it’s a full night of Halloween thrills!

Where: 2511 FM 66, Waxahachie

When: Fridays and Saturdays through October 26 / October 31-November 2

Cost: $42 and up

More info: https://screamspark.com/

Thrasher Slashers Scarepark

For a limited time this Fall, Alliance Skatepark will be transformed into Alliance Scarepark! With Haunted houses, stage shows, games, concessions, photo ops, roaming gangs of monsters, souvenirs, and screams around every corner.

Where: Alliance Skatepark at Grand Prairie, 1002 Lone Star Pkwy, Grand Prairie

When: October 25-26 / October 28 / October 31 / November 2

Cost: $35 and up

More info: https://thrasherslashers.com/

Trick 'R Treat Train

The Grapevine Vintage Railroad’s Trick ‘R Treat Trains will offer a festive Halloween experience with excursions running at 11:50 a.m. and 1:50 p.m. on Halloween day. Passengers can enjoy Halloween songs and stories while aboard the historic train. Children are encouraged to wear their favorite costumes, and each child will receive a prepackaged bag of treats during the ride, making it a fun, family-friendly way to celebrate the spooky season.

Where: Grapevine Vintage Railroad, Grapevine

When: Saturday, October 26 at 11:50 a.m., 1:50 p.m. and 3:50 p.m.

Cost: $20

Info: https://www.gvrr.com/event/trick-r-treat-train/38726/

What the Constitution Means to Me

Earnest and polite high schooler Heidi put herself through college by winning debates about the Constitution. Now an adult, she revisits her teenage self to trace the generational impact America’s founding document has had on her life.  Civic duty is on full display as this witty and interactive new play builds to a live debate between Heidi and an actual teen, allowing “we the people” to decide how to move forward.

Where: Stage West Theatre, 821 W Vickery Blvd, Fort Worth

When: Oct 24-27 / Oct 31-Nov 3

Cost: $43

Info: https://stagewest.org/what-the-constitution-means-to-me

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Featured Image Photo Credit: Gaelen Morse/For the Columbus Dispatch via Imagn Content Services, LLC