The State Fair of Texas returns to Fair Park for 24 days of food, music, rides, livestock, exhibits and one of the biggest annual traditions in North Texas. The 2026 theme is “Stars, Stripes, and Howdies,” with special programming tied to America’s 250th anniversary alongside Fair favorites such as the Texas Auto Show, livestock barns, Creative Arts exhibits, the Midway, nightly Starlight Parade, fireworks and the larger-than-life presence of Big Tex. Admission also includes more than 100 daily attractions and nearly 100 live-music performances across multiple stages during the run.
When: Friday, September 25 - Sunday, October 18
Where: Fair Park, Dallas
Cost: Cost: General admission ranges from $7-$25 depending on day and discounts; children ages 3-12 are $7-$10; children 2 and younger are free; seniors are $7-$20. Date-specific adult tickets for opening weekend are currently $27 online with fees included.
Red River Rivalry: Texas vs. Oklahoma
The Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners renew one of college football's greatest rivalries at the Cotton Bowl during the State Fair of Texas. The annual neutral-site matchup divides the stadium into burnt orange and crimson and brings thousands of fans to Fair Park for a day of pageantry, tradition and football.
Where: Cotton Bowl Stadium, Fair Park, Dallas
When: Saturday, October 10 at 2:30 p.m.
Cost: Resale listings have been advertised from approximately $295
African American Museum Dallas - Mandela: The Official Exhibition
Mandela: The Official Exhibition is a major international exhibition produced in collaboration with Round Room Live the Royal House of Mandela and authenticated by the Mandela family. It traces Mandela’s remarkable life through four immersive gallery environments, filled with personal artifacts, multimedia installations, archival photographs, and interactive experiences. Stopping by the AAMD is a great way to get a break from the weather while attending the State Fair of Texas.
When: Daily through November 1 (Open: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Tuesday through Saturday)
Where: African American Museum Dallas, Fair Park, 3536 Grand Avenue, Dallas
Cost: Free
Allen welcomes fall with a free community festival featuring seasonal activities, family entertainment and opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. The morning celebration is designed for families looking for a relaxed alternative to the larger festivals and attractions across North Texas.
Where: 451 St. Mary Drive, Allen
When: Saturday, October 10 from 9 a.m.–1 p.m.
Cost: Free
Argyle High School: Disney's The Little Mermaid
Argyle High School Theatre dives under the sea for its fall musical, bringing Disney's beloved animated classic to life onstage. The production follows Ariel, a young mermaid who dreams of exploring the human world and makes a dangerous bargain with the sea witch Ursula. Featuring favorite songs including "Part of Your World," "Under the Sea" and "Kiss the Girl," the musical promises a colorful, family-friendly adventure filled with romance, comedy and memorable characters.
Where: Argyle High School, 6601 Canyon Falls Drive, Flower Mound
When: Thursday, October 8, at 7 p.m.; Saturday, October 10, at 2 and 7 p.m.
Cost: $10 - $20
Bands of America North Texas Regional Championship
Twenty-eight high school marching bands from across the region compete for the Bands of America North Texas Regional Championship. Each band presents a carefully choreographed musical and visual production, with nationally recognized judges evaluating the performances. The 12 highest-scoring bands return for the evening finals, where a regional champion will be crowned.
Where: Children's Health Stadium, Prosper
When: Saturday, October 10; preliminary competition begins in the morning, with preliminaries gates opening at 7:30 a.m. and finals gates at 6:30 p.m.
Cost: Adult all-day general admission is $44, plus $3.45 in fees, totaling $47.45. Children 10 and younger are free in general admission seating.
Grapevine gives its four-legged residents a festival of their own with Barktober Bash. The dog-friendly celebration includes pet-related activities, local vendors and a costume contest where dogs can show off their Halloween outfits.
Where: Liberty Park Plaza, Grapevine
When: Saturday, October 10 from 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Cost: Free admission; costume contest registration is $10.
Plano celebrates the music of the Fab Four with an outdoor tribute concert featuring A Hard Night's Day, one of the region's established Beatles tribute acts. The evening also includes music from Live Radio DFW, giving audiences a night of familiar rock-and-roll favorites under the stars.
Where: Red Tail Pavilion, 2801 E. Spring Creek Parkway, Plano
When: Saturday, October 10 from 7–10:30 p.m.
Cost: Adult admission is $18, plus a $2 service fee, totaling $20. Discounted tickets for eligible children and seniors are $18 including fees.
Blippi and Meekah bring their colorful world of curiosity, songs and educational adventures to life in Allen. The family stage production includes music, dancing and interactive moments designed especially for young children who know the characters from their popular videos.
Where: Credit Union of Texas Event Center, 200 E. Stacy Road, Allen
When: Sunday, October 11 at 2 p.m.
Cost: $46 and up Children younger than 2 may sit on a parent's lap without a separate ticket.
Billy Bob's Concerts (Friday: Blackberry Smoke / Saturday: Tyler Farr)
When: Friday at 9 p.m. / Saturday at 10 p.m.
Where: Billy Bob’s Texas, Fort Worth
Cost: $20 - $65
The creators of the popular children's podcasts Brains On! and Smash Boom Best bring their playful mix of science, storytelling and spirited debate to the stage. Audience members help settle entertaining arguments while exploring how curiosity and critical thinking can make learning fun.
Where: Dee and Charles Wyly Theatre, 2400 Flora St., Dallas
When: Sunday, October 11 at 2 p.m.
Cost: $48 and up
Breaking Benjamin with Chevelle, Starset and Kami Kehoe
Multi-platinum rock band Breaking Benjamin brings its North American tour to Fort Worth for a major Columbus Day concert. The hard-rock lineup also includes Chevelle, Starset and Kami Kehoe, creating an evening of guitar-driven hits and high-energy performances. Breaking Benjamin is known for songs including "The Diary of Jane," "Breath" and "I Will Not Bow."
Where: Dickies Arena, Fort Worth
When: Monday, October 12, at 6 p.m.
Cost: $150 and up
Brooks & Dunn: Neon Moon Tour
Country Music Hall of Famers Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn bring their Neon Moon Tour to Fort Worth for two nights. The duo's catalog includes enduring country favorites such as "Boot Scootin' Boogie," "My Maria" and "Neon Moon." Tucker Wetmore and Caylee Hammack are among the special guests for the tour.
Where: Dickies Arena, Fort Worth
When: Friday and Saturday, October 9–10, at 7 p.m.
Cost: $99 and up
CeCe Winans: Come Worship! Tour
Gospel music superstar CeCe Winans brings her largest headlining tour to Fort Worth, joined by Charity Gayle, Terrian and Red Worship. The evening will combine contemporary worship music with songs from one of the most decorated careers in Christian music. Winans has won 18 Grammy Awards and is known for songs including "Goodness of God" and "Believe for It."
Where: Dickies Arena, Fort Worth
When: Sunday, October 11, at 7 p.m.
Cost: $43 and up
Celebrate Roanoke
Downtown Roanoke hosts its 29th annual signature festival, featuring an entire day of live entertainment, western activities, food vendors and family attractions. Country band LANCO headlines at 8:30 p.m., following performances by several other acts. Rodeo entertainment includes bull riding, mutton bustin' and calf scrambles, with a drone show lighting up the night sky to close the festivities.
Where: Historic Downtown Roanoke, 500 S. Oak St.
When: Saturday, October 10, noon–10 p.m.
Cost: Free admission
Celia Álvarez Muñoz: El Límite
Fort Worth artist Celia Álvarez Muñoz examines how borders, railroads and languages can connect communities while also dividing them. The site-specific installation combines video, sculpture, sound and other media, drawing from the artist’s experiences along the Texas-Mexico border and incorporating references to Mexican printmaker José Guadalupe Posada.
Where: Amon Carter Museum of American Art, 3501 Camp Bowie Blvd., Fort Worth
When: Exhibition continues through October 18
Cost: Free
Community Beer Co.: Red River Weekend
Community Beer Co. turns Red River Rivalry weekend into a two-day celebration for Texas and Oklahoma football fans. Friday brings a pregame gathering, while Saturday features a watch party built around the rivalry game at the Cotton Bowl. Fans can enjoy the atmosphere without needing a ticket to the game itself.
Where: Community Beer Co., 3110 Commonwealth Drive, Dallas
When: Friday, October 9 beginning at 6 p.m.; Saturday, October 10, with the game at 2:30 p.m.
Cost: Free admission; food and beverages sold separately.
Cruel Intentions: The '90s Musical
The 1999 cult-classic film gets a stage makeover in this jukebox musical about secrets, seduction and social rivalries among wealthy Manhattan teenagers. The production combines the movie's scandalous storyline with a soundtrack filled with familiar pop and rock hits from the 1990s.
Where: Cox Playhouse, 1517 H Ave., Plano
When: Thursday, October 8 at 7:30 p.m., Friday, October 9 at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, October 10 at 7:30 p.m., Sunday, October 11 at 3:30 p.m.
Cost: $30
Fort Worth’s massive haunted attraction starts ramping up for Halloween season inside a century-old former meat-packing facility. The multi-story experience combines live actors, special effects and maze-like environments.
Where: Cutting Edge Haunted House, 1701 E. Lancaster Ave., Fort Worth
When: Select nights during Halloween season, including this weekend (Friday and Saturday)
Cost: $30 and up; parking is $20 cash
Dallas Arboretum: Autumn at the Arboretum
The Dallas Arboretum launches its signature fall festival with more than 100,000 pumpkins, gourds and squash. This year’s “Harvest Hues” theme takes inspiration from artists including Jean-Michel Basquiat, Mark Rothko, Piet Mondrian and Jackson Pollock.
Where: Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, 8525 Garland Road, Dallas
When: Runs daily through November 1
Cost: Included with regular garden admission. (around $26)
Dallas Bach Society: Highlights of High Baroque
The Dallas Bach Society explores some of the most beautiful and expressive music of the 18th century in an evening of Baroque masterpieces. The program includes Bach's Brandenburg Concerto No. 3, a Telemann concerto, Vivaldi's Nulla in mundo pax sincera and Clérambault's dramatic cantata Médée. Period-instrument musicians and featured vocal soloists bring these works to life.
Where: Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, 7611 Park Lane, Dallas
When: Saturday, October 10, at 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $27 - $54
Dallas Opera: The Elixir of Love
The Dallas Opera opens its new season with Gaetano Donizetti's beloved romantic comedy The Elixir of Love. Set in postwar Italy, the production follows a lovestruck young man who turns to a traveling salesman's supposedly magical potion in hopes of winning the heart of the woman he adores. The new-to-Dallas staging features soprano Soraya Mafi and tenor Anthony León, with the opera performed in Italian and projected English titles.
Where: Winspear Opera House, 2403 Flora St., Dallas
When: Friday, October 9 at 8 p.m.; Sunday, October 11 at 2 p.m. Additional performances October 14 and 17.
Cost: $19 and up
Dallas Symphony Orchestra: Disney's Hocus Pocus in Concert
The Sanderson sisters return to Salem, but this time they're bringing an entire symphony orchestra. The Dallas Symphony Orchestra performs John Debney's score live as Disney's Hocus Pocus plays on the big screen. Conducted by Jacob Joyce, the concert combines the Halloween movie favorite with the sound of a full orchestra for a seasonal outing.
Where: Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, 2301 Flora St., Dallas
When: Friday–Saturday, October 9–10 at 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, October 11 at 2 p.m.
Cost: $65 and up
DanceAfrica
Dallas Black Dance Theatre celebrates African dance, music and cultural traditions through two evenings of powerful performances. The program combines live drumming with performances by Dallas Black Dance Theatre, DBDT: Encore, Dallas Black Dance Academy ensembles and special guests including Bandan Koro. A communal dance experience traditionally brings the performers and audience together at the conclusion.
Where: Moody Performance Hall, 2520 Flora St., Dallas
When: Friday and Saturday, October 9–10, at 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $65
DanceAfrica Festival & Marketplace
The cultural celebration continues outdoors as Klyde Warren Park fills with African music, dance, crafts and food. Dallas Black Dance Theatre hosts an afternoon of performances by dance troupes from across North Texas, including student ensembles and the Bandan Koro Drum and Dance Ensemble. Families can explore artisan booths and experience the sounds and traditions of African culture without purchasing a theater ticket.
Where: Klyde Warren Park, 2012 Woodall Rodgers Freeway, Dallas
When: Saturday, October 10, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Cost: Free
Plano's elaborate haunted attraction brings Halloween to life with theatrical sets, costumed performers and immersive environments built around supernatural stories. Unlike a traditional walk-through haunted house, Dark Hour incorporates detailed staging and live performances to create an experience that feels more like stepping into a horror production.
Where: Dark Hour Haunted House, 701 Taylor Drive, Plano
When: Friday–Sunday, October 9–11; select additional nights through November 13.
Cost: General admission starts at $39, with premium admission packages up to $110.
Thomas the Tank Engine returns to Grapevine for a weekend of train rides and family activities. Young railroad fans can ride behind a full-size Thomas locomotive, meet Sir Topham Hatt and enjoy themed entertainment centered around the characters from the beloved children's series.
Where: Grapevine Vintage Railroad, 705 S. Main St., Grapevine
When: Friday–Sunday, October 9–11; multiple train departures. (Also October 16, 17, 18)
Cost: $30
DFW Italian Heritage & Food Festival
The flavors, traditions and sounds of Italy take over Las Colinas for a two-day celebration of Italian heritage. Visitors can sample Italian dishes, browse vendors and enjoy live entertainment and cultural activities while learning about the communities and traditions that have shaped Italian life in North Texas. The event is free with separate ticketed experiences.
Where: Levy Event Plaza, 501 E. Las Colinas Blvd., Irving
When: Saturday, October 10 from 11 a.m.–6 p.m.; Sunday, October 11 from 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
Cost: Free admission.
Plano celebrates the Festival of Lights with an afternoon of Indian music, dance, traditional food and cultural activities. The family-friendly event brings together performances, vendors and community celebrations highlighting the traditions surrounding Diwali.
Where: Assembly Park, 1717 E. Spring Creek Parkway, Plano
When: Sunday, October 11 from 3–7 p.m.
Cost: Free with RSVP; food and merchandise sold separately.
Dominique Hammons: Soul Sessions
Virtuoso violinist Dominique Hammons brings his Soul Sessions concert to Dallas, blending classical violin technique with jazz, R&B, soul and contemporary musical influences. The Houston-born musician's performances emphasize powerful arrangements and showmanship, offering a crossover experience that moves well beyond traditional classical music.
Where: Wyly Theatre, 2400 Flora St., Dallas
When: Saturday, October 10, at 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $50 and up
Fall Into Flower Mound Festival
Flower Mound's River Walk hosts two days of seasonal entertainment with live music, carnival-style attractions, family activities and fall-themed experiences. The weekend combines games, performances and activities for children with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the changing season.
Where: Flower Mound River Walk, 4110 River Walk Drive, Flower Mound
When: Friday, October 9 from 5–10 p.m.; Saturday, October 10 from noon–10 p.m.
Cost: Free admission; some attractions and food purchases may cost extra.
Farmers Branch Historical Park hosts a full day of fall celebrations with live entertainment, seasonal activities, family attractions and Halloween-themed fun. The festivities include opportunities for children to take part in games and trick-or-treat activities, with a separate Spooky Dash running event also part of the celebration.
Where: Farmers Branch Historical Park, 2540 Farmers Branch Lane, Farmers Branch
When: Saturday, October 10 from 11 a.m.–9 p.m.
Cost: Free festival admission; Spooky Dash registration and some purchases cost extra.
Fort Worth Museum of Science and History: Forces at Play
The interactive sports-science exhibition explores how gravity, friction, momentum and engineering affect athletic performance and equipment design.
Where: Fort Worth Museum of Science and History
When: Daily; continues through February 28, 2027
Cost: Included with museum admission ($12 - $16)
Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra: The Classical Style
The Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra returns to Bass Performance Hall with a program celebrating the elegance and sophistication of classical orchestral music. Three performances provide opportunities to experience the orchestra in one of North Texas' premier concert halls, including a Sunday afternoon matinee.
Where: Bass Performance Hall, Fort Worth
When: Friday and Saturday, October 9–10, at 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, October 11, at 2 p.m.
Cost: $30 and up
Downtown Plano's Global Grooves concert series celebrates Latin American culture with an evening of music and cultural entertainment at McCall Plaza. The outdoor event offers visitors a chance to enjoy performances inspired by the region's musical traditions in the heart of Plano's historic downtown.
Where: McCall Plaza, 998 E. 15th St., Plano
When: Friday, October 9 at 7 p.m.
Cost: Free
Grapevine continues its free outdoor music series with two nights of concerts at Peace Plaza. Friday features Warehouse, a tribute to the Dave Matthews Band, while Saturday brings Texas country artist Justin Mason. The open-air setting offers music alongside the restaurants and attractions around Grapevine Main Station.
Where: Peace Plaza at Grapevine Main Station, 815 S. Main St., Grapevine
When: Friday–Saturday, October 9–10; evening concerts beginning around 7:30 p.m.
Cost: Free.
Grapevine introduces a fall festival at Meadowmere Park featuring pumpkins, seasonal photo opportunities and family activities along the shores of Grapevine Lake. Weekend activities include craft vendors, with the festival running through October 18. Admission is charged by vehicle rather than by person, making it an option for families or groups traveling together.
Where: Meadowmere Park, 3000 Meadowmere Lane, Grapevine
When: Friday–Sunday, October 9–11 from 10 a.m.–9 p.m.; Monday, October 12 from 10 a.m.–7 p.m.
Cost: $20 per car, covering all occupants; buses are $40. Cashless event.
More than 100 exhibitors gather for a two-day showcase focused on wellness, healthy living and related products and services. The expo brings together vendors and educational opportunities for visitors interested in nutrition, fitness, self-care and other approaches to personal well-being.
Where: Grapevine Convention Center, 1209 S. Main St., Grapevine
When: Saturday–Sunday, October 10–11 from 11 a.m.–6 p.m.
Cost: $8 for a one-day pass; $11 for a weekend pass.
Hall's Pumpkin Farm & Corn Maze
One of Grapevine's longtime fall traditions opens for the season this weekend with pumpkins, farm animals, vintage tractors and a two-acre corn maze that visitors can tackle during the day or after dark with a flashlight.
Where: Hall's Pumpkin Farm, 3420 Hall-Johnson Road, Grapevine
When: Friday, October 9 from 3-9 p.m.; Saturday from 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sunday from 1-8 p.m. (Runs through Sunday, November 1st.)
Cost: $15 for adults and ages 12 and older; $10 for children 4-11; children 3 and younger free; seniors and veterans free. Corn maze included. Cash only.
Dinosaurs return to the Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary with a collection of life-size animatronic creatures along the museum's nature trails. The outdoor exhibition features a towering Tyrannosaurus rex and other prehistoric animals, combining a woodland walk with moving dinosaur displays and educational information.
Where: Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary, 1 Nature Place, McKinney
When: Friday–Sunday, October 9–11 during regular museum hours; exhibition continues through March 1, 2027
Cost: $16 adults; $14 seniors; $12 children ages 3–12; children 2 and younger free.
Grapevine celebrates local heroes with a free family event featuring first responders, vehicles, games and children's activities. Families can meet community heroes, explore displays and enjoy superhero-themed entertainment while supporting a charitable event connected to local first responders.
Where: Peace Plaza at Harvest Hall, Grapevine Main Station, Grapevine
When: Saturday, October 10 from 11 a.m.–3 p.m.
Cost: Free; donations encouraged.
InterGem International Gem & Jewelry Show
Gemstone collectors, jewelry shoppers and hobbyists can explore a large marketplace of loose gems, minerals, beads, fine jewelry and specialty supplies. The International Gem & Jewelry Show brings professional dealers and vendors together for three days of shopping and discovery at the Gaylord Texan.
Where: Gaylord Texan Resort, 1501 Gaylord Trail, Grapevine
When: Friday, October 9 from noon–6 p.m.; Saturday from 10 a.m.–6 p.m.; Sunday from 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
Cost: $6 online for a pass valid all three days; $8 at the door. Parking is $20 per day. Children younger than 9 are not admitted.
John Mulaney: Mister Whatever
Four-time Emmy Award-winning comedian John Mulaney returns to North Texas with his Mister Whatever stand-up tour. Known for his sharp writing, distinctive storytelling and television specials, Mulaney has also expanded into late-night television with his Netflix talk show Everybody's Live with John Mulaney.
Where: Will Rogers Auditorium, Fort Worth
When: Friday, October 9, at 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $126.50 and up
Kacey Musgraves: Middle of Nowhere Tour
The Grammy-winning Texas country star brings two nights of her Middle of Nowhere Tour to Dallas. Musgraves blends traditional country storytelling with a modern sound, while her latest project draws inspiration from Texas dance halls, Norteño and Zydeco influences. Fellow Texas country artist William Beckmann joins her for the performances.
Where: American Airlines Center, Dallas
When: Saturday and Sunday, October 10–11, at 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $87 and up
Legends of New Country: Tributes to Morgan Wallen & Lainey Wilson
Legacy Hall celebrates two of modern country's biggest names with tribute performances dedicated to Morgan Wallen and Lainey Wilson. Wallen Nation and Lainey Nation bring familiar songs and country-show energy to the outdoor Lexus Box Garden for a Friday-night concert.
Where: Lexus Box Garden at Legacy Hall, 7800 Windrose Ave., Plano
When: Friday, October 9 at 8 p.m.
Cost: $16 and up
Levitt Pavilion Arlington: Free Concert Weekend
Levitt Pavilion continues its season of free outdoor concerts with two nights of live music in downtown Arlington. Texas country favorite Gary P. Nunn headlines Friday with Goldpine, while Saturday features Tom Sless & Turbo and La Bell. Guests can bring lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy the performances under the stars.
Where: Levitt Pavilion Arlington, 100 W. Abram St., Arlington
When: Friday–Saturday, October 9–10; performances begin around 7:10 p.m. both nights.
Cost: Free
Logic & G-Eazy: The Endless Summer Tour Part II
Two major names in hip-hop join forces for an outdoor concert in Irving. Logic and G-Eazy bring their Endless Summer Tour Part II to the Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory, combining their individual catalogs and contrasting musical styles for a night of rap and live entertainment.
Where: The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory, 300 W. Las Colinas Blvd., Irving
When: Monday, October 12
Cost: $19 and up
Los Parras: El Gran Regreso Tour
Regional Mexican group Los Parras comes to Grand Prairie as part of its El Gran Regreso Tour. The concert offers a major evening of contemporary Mexican music at the Texas Trust CU Theatre, continuing the venue's strong lineup of Spanish-language performers.
Where: Texas Trust CU Theatre, Grand Prairie
When: Saturday, October 10, at 8 p.m.
Cost: $66 and up
Mainstay Farm: Pumpkin Fall Days
Mainstay Farm begins its October schedule with pumpkins, flower fields and more than 30 farm attractions spread across its Cleburne property. The family destination includes play areas, seasonal food and drinks and plenty of fall photo opportunities.
Where: Mainstay Farm Park, 1004 W. Bethesda Road, Cleburne
When: Friday, October 9 from 5-9 p.m.; Saturday from 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sunday from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. (through November 7th)
Cost: Current one-time fall-admission sale is $19.95; regular gate admission is $39.95, plus tax and fees; children 2 and younger are free
Metaphor: ReFantazio Orchestra Concert
The acclaimed role-playing video game Metaphor: ReFantazio gets the live orchestral treatment in Grand Prairie. The concert brings music from the fantasy adventure to the stage, giving fans a chance to experience its distinctive score in a full concert setting. The production is part of the growing trend of live orchestral presentations built around popular video games.
Where: Texas Trust CU Theatre, Grand Prairie
When: Friday, October 9, at 8 p.m.
Cost: $52 and up
Fort Worth celebrates Latin flavors and music with a downtown festival centered on the michelada, the popular Mexican beer cocktail. The event includes food vendors, music, cultural entertainment and opportunities to sample creative variations of the signature drink.
Where: Downtown Fort Worth, Main Street near General Worth Square
When: Sunday, October 11 from noon–8 p.m.
Cost: Free admission; food and beverages sold separately.
Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed: The Rock Experience
Dallas Children's Theater opens its new season with the stage adaptation of Mo Willems' children's book about Wilbur, a naked mole rat who discovers a love of clothing and decides he doesn't have to be exactly like everyone else. The production mixes the story with energetic rock music and is recommended for ages 4 and older.
Where: Baker Theater at Dallas Children's Theater, 5938 Skillman St., Dallas
When: Saturday, October 10 at 1:30 p.m. for the sensory-friendly performance and 4:30 p.m. for the regular performance; Sunday, October 11 at 1:30 p.m. (Also weekends through October 18)
Cost: Regular tickets start at $36; Saturday's sensory-friendly performance is $10 per person.
Historic Nash Farm turns back the clock for a traditional evening barn dance. Guests can enjoy live fiddle music, called dances and an old-fashioned community gathering inspired by the farm's historic setting. The evening also includes a chicken supper and a pie auction.
Where: Nash Farm, 626 Ball St., Grapevine
When: Friday, October 9 from 6:30–9 p.m.
Cost: $25 in advance; $35 at the gate.
Nasher Sculpture Center: Roy Lichtenstein: Drawing in Process
Take a closer look at one of pop art's biggest names through an exhibition that explores Roy Lichtenstein's creative process. Sketches, studies and finished works reveal how the iconic artist transformed simple ideas into bold, instantly recognizable pieces.
Where: Nasher Sculpture Center, Dallas
When: Daily through October 24
Cost: $18 adults; seniors $15; students $10; free for members and children 12 & under
North Texas Football vs. Charlotte
The North Texas Mean Green host the Charlotte 49ers in an American Conference football matchup in Denton. Fans can spend a fall Saturday at DATCU Stadium cheering on the home team, with the game's afternoon kickoff providing an alternative to the huge crowds surrounding the Texas–Oklahoma game in Dallas.
Where: DATCU Stadium, Denton
When: Saturday, October 10, at 3:30 p.m.
Cost: $20 and up
North Texas Pride: Come As You Are Festival
North Texas Pride returns with a community celebration featuring live entertainment, vendors, activities and opportunities for families and friends to connect. The festival offers an afternoon of performances, shopping and community resources in downtown Plano.
Where: ArtCentre of Plano, 902 E. 16th St., Plano
When: Saturday, October 10 from noon–5 p.m.
Cost: $10 for ages 13 and older; children 12 and younger free; VIP admission $25.
Historic Downtown Plano welcomes dog lovers for a celebration featuring pets, activities, vendors and seasonal entertainment. Visitors can explore the downtown district while enjoying an event designed around dogs and the people who love them.
Where: Downtown Plano Arts District, Plano
When: Sunday, October 11 from 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
Cost: Free with RSVP.
Prosper on Plaza: Red River Rivalry Fan Fest
Prosper brings one of college football's biggest rivalries to its downtown plaza with an outdoor watch party for Texas versus Oklahoma. The afternoon includes a large-screen game broadcast, music, games and family-friendly activities for fans who want the Red River atmosphere without heading to the Cotton Bowl.
Where: Downtown Prosper Plaza, Prosper
When: Saturday, October 10 from 1–5:30 p.m.; Texas–Oklahoma kicks off at 2:30 p.m.
Cost: Free.
Howell Farms lights up after dark with immersive pumpkin-themed lands, elaborate displays and family-friendly Halloween environments. Pumpkin Nights is where Halloween becomes art. The journey follows a half-mile path through nine immersive pumpkin lands, from the fiery Forbidden City to the electric underwater world of Neon Reef, with larger-than-life installations built from over 10,000 hand-carved and custom-designed pumpkins. The experience continues in Pumpkin Village, the heart of the festival — festive food, the live fire show, and games for the whole family.
Where: Howell Farms, Arlington
When: Select nights through October 31
Cost: $20 and up
SHEF Food + Wine
Celebrity chefs and rising culinary stars converge on Grand Prairie for the third annual SHEF Food + Wine celebration. Organized by chef Tiffany Derry and Tom Foley, the three-day festival showcases Texas' diverse culinary traditions. Featured events include a Friday gathering with Carla Hall, a conversation with Kristen Kish, Saturday's Grand Tasting with nationally recognized chefs, and a Sunday gospel brunch experience. A portion of the proceeds supports culinary scholarships.
Where: EpicCentral and participating venues, Grand Prairie
When: Friday–Sunday, October 9–11
Cost: Individual experiences start at $15 before fees; Friday's Sno Social is $16.75 including published fees. Saturday's Grand Tasting is $164.52 including fees.
Six Flags Over Texas: Fright Fest
Halloween arrives early in Arlington as Fright Fest begins its 2026 run. Select nights feature haunted attractions, scare zones, creepy live entertainment and nighttime thrills throughout the park. Fright Fest continues through November 1. Six Flags also begins its daytime fall programming this weekend. Oktoberfest brings German-inspired food, beer, music and games to the park, while Tricks and Treats provides the more family-friendly side of Halloween on Saturdays and Sundays through November 1.
Where: Six Flags Over Texas, 2201 E. Road to Six Flags St., Arlington
When: Select nights through November 1
Cost: $45 online; park-and-haunted-maze bundles start at $69
SMU Volleyball vs. No. 2 Pittsburgh
One of the biggest college volleyball matches of the season comes to Moody Coliseum as nationally ranked SMU hosts second-ranked Pittsburgh. The Mustangs stunned the Panthers in four sets Wednesday night in Pittsburgh, setting up an immediate rematch in Dallas. The nationally televised ACC showdown gives North Texas fans a chance to see two of the country's best programs compete.
Where: Moody Coliseum, SMU, Dallas
When: Sunday, October 11, at 2 p.m.
Cost: $60 family four-pack includes four tickets, four food vouchers and four drinks. Individual tickets are sold separately.
Sonidos del Summer: Bidi Bidi Back to the Park
Fort Worth's historic North Side hosts a major free celebration of Tejano music and Latino culture, headlined by a tribute to Selena performed by Monica Saldivar. The concert takes place at Marine Park, where Selena herself once performed. Visitors can also enjoy lowrider displays, food vendors, a community marketplace and children's activities before a spectacular fireworks finale at 9:45 p.m.
Where: Marine Park, 303 NW 20th St., Fort Worth
When: Saturday, October 10, 5–10 p.m.
Cost: Free admission.
Stars of Texas Music Festival
Three days of major country music, drag racing, bull riding and illuminated lantern releases take over the historic Texas Motorplex. Aaron Watson headlines Friday, Brad Paisley takes center stage Saturday, and Travis Tritt closes the festival Sunday. The event also features barbecue, festival activities and lantern releases Saturday and Sunday nights, launching the Motorplex's Stampede of Speed celebration.
Where: Texas Motorplex, 7500 U.S. Highway 287, Ennis
When: Friday–Sunday, October 9–11; Saturday and Sunday gates open at noon
Cost: Friday general admission $39; Saturday $79; Sunday $59.
The Perot Museum explores the science, technology and culture behind the world’s most popular sport through a 10,000-square-foot interactive exhibition. Visitors can enter through a stadium-style tunnel, test their skills through hands-on challenges and examine how engineering, physics, equipment design and data influence the modern game.
Where: Perot Museum of Nature and Science, 2201 N. Field St., Dallas
When: Daily through January 4, 2027
Cost: $39 total for adults and $27 total for children ages 2-12, including museum admission and the exhibition ticket
Shakespeare Dallas continues its final Shakespeare in the Park production of the year, transforming one of Shakespeare’s darkest tragedies into the glamorous and violent world of “Club Titus.”
Where: Samuell-Grand Amphitheater, Dallas
When: Thursday-Sunday at 8 p.m.; continues through October 18
Cost: $15-$20
North Texas’ newest theme park is now open. Designed specifically for families with younger children, the Frisco resort includes seven lands featuring Shrek, SpongeBob SquarePants, the Minions, Trolls, Jurassic World, Puss in Boots and Gabby’s Dollhouse.
When: Open daily
Where: Universal Kids Resort, Frisco
Cost: One day admission - $54.99 and up / Two day - $73.99 and up
