The 2025 State Fair of Texas returns to Fair Park in Dallas from September 26 through October 19, bringing 24 days of food, music, and family fun under the watchful eye of Big Tex. Highlights include the annual Texas Auto Show, the Fair Park Rodeo, nightly fireworks, butter sculptures, and a midway packed with rides and games. Food lovers can sample inventive new dishes alongside classic fried favorites, while music fans can catch free performances on the Bud Light Stage with acts such as TLC, Hoobastank, Brian McKnight, Kaitlin Butts, Wade Bowen, Cold War Kids, and the Village People. Tickets are available in advance or at the gate, with savings offered on Value Days and through the Big Tex Insider program.
KRLD's Mid Morning Mike Check will be live from 10 a.m. - Noon every weekday during the Fair. And the KRLD Afternoon News will be live every Friday from 3p.m. - 7 p.m.
When: September 26 - October 19
Where: Fair Park, Dallas
Cost: $29 and up (discounts available)
In The 39 Steps, a man with a boring life meets a woman with a thick accent who says she's a spy. When he takes her home, she is murdered. Soon, a mysterious organization called "The 39 Steps" is hot on the man's trail in a nationwide manhunt that climaxes in a death-defying finale! A riotous blend of virtuoso performances and wildly inventive stagecraft, The 39 Steps amounts to an unforgettable evening of pure pleasure!
When: September 26-28 / October 3-5 / October 10-12
Where: Onstage in Bedford, 2400 School Ln, Bedford
Cost: $27
When: Saturday, September 27 at 8 p.m.
Where: Pavilion At Toyota Music Factory, Irving
Cost: $57 and up
Autumn at the Arboretum: Mundo México
The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden presents Autumn at the Arboretum: Mundo México, a fall festival featuring over 110,000 pumpkins, gourds, and squash transformed into a celebration of Mexican culture, contemporary art, and biodiversity. At its center are eight monumental sculptures from Spirit Guides: Fantastical Creatures from the Workshop of Jacobo and María Ángeles, artists from the Zapotec community of San Martín Tilcajete in Oaxaca. Their vivid hybrid animal figures, inspired by Zapotec cosmology, explore the spiritual beings known as the tona and nahual, believed to guide individuals through their birth date and character.
When: Saturday, September 20 - Sunday, November 2
Where: Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, Dallas
Cost: Adults - $22 / Child (2-12) - $18
As The Beach Boys mark more than a half century of making music, the group continues to ride the crest of a wave unequalled in America's musical history. The Beach Boys – who have become synonymous with the California lifestyle and an American icon, are bringing their shows to fans around the world.
When: Sunday, September 28 at 3:30 p.m.
Where: Texas Trust CU Theatre, Grand Prairie
Cost: $59 and up
A teenage girl hears something strange on her radio. What she believes is the final transmission of Amelia Earhart turns out to maybe be true. She writes it all down. Decades later, her notebook becomes the starting point for this immersive, goosebump-inducing performance. Betty's Notebook is not your typical concert: voices drift through the space like distant signals, projections fill the room, and the past comes eerily alive around you. If you've ever been intrigued by a mystery or wondered how music could feel like a story unfolding in real time, this is for you.
When: September 25-28
Where: Eisemann Center, Richardson
Cost: $47
Billy Bob's Concerts (Friday: Joe Nichols, Saturday: Jamey Johnson)
When: Friday at 10 p.m. / Saturday at 10 p.m.
Where: Billy Bob's Texas, Fort Worth
Cost: $20 - $101
BOO! is an indoor, immersive, spooky adventure. Guests can expect the unexpected as they navigate through the "BooMont Hotel's" mysterious rooms, interactive spaces, and imaginative photo opportunities. BOO! takes guests on an explorable adventure through endless imaginative rooms and hundreds of surprises for those who are ready to experience the strange and unusual over the course of about an hour. Created to be a fully immersive and truly spooky journey, BOO! features unique photo opportunities for guests to snap a picture from another world – including 3 extra-special photo moments with integrated cameras and professional lighting.
When: Sept 26-28 / Oct 1 - November 2
Where: Galleria Dallas, 13350 Dallas Pkwy, Dallas
Cost: $20 - $35
Bring Me The Horizon - USA Ascension Program Part 01
When: Saturday, September 27 at 6 p.m.
Where: American Airlines Center, Dallas
Cost: $88 and up
Carrie is bullied at school and dominated by her cruel mother at home. When she discovers that she has a special power, she does not hesitate to use it when pushed too far. (Mild adult themes)
When: September 26-28
Where: Theatre Denton, 214 W Hickory St, Denton
Cost: $20 - $27
Carrollton Culture Fest is a celebration of global traditions, food, and live entertainment. Guests can sample international flavors from vendors representing countries like France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Mexico, and more, and enjoy Bevvy Blvd, a new international drink garden curated by 3 Nations Brewing Co. The festival also features performances from Drums of Tahiti – Polynesian Revue, SDK Bhangra, Rising Phoenix Lion Dragons, and UDA Samba, along with a marketplace of artisan goods and interactive street games from around the world.
When: Saturday, September 27 at 3 p.m.
Where: Historic Downtown Carrollton
Cost: Free
The 2025 Chi Omega Christmas Market returns to Dallas Market Hall from September 24–27 for its 48th year, bringing together more than 200 merchants offering holiday décor, apparel, jewelry, home goods, gourmet food, art, and more. Organized and staffed by Chi Omega alumnae and collegiate volunteers, this Dallas holiday tradition includes special shopping sessions such as the Preview Party on September 24, First Call Shopping the morning of September 25, and general admission hours through September 27. Proceeds support local non-profits and scholarships, with the market having raised over $10.95 million since 1978, including $556,000 distributed in 2024 alone.
When: September 24-27
Where: Dallas Market Hall, Dallas
Cost: $20 and up
It's live music under the stars from 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday nights this fall. Bring your lawn chair or blanket and enjoy the great tunes. This weekend it's Carly Carroll on Friday and Frankie Wheeler on Saturday.
When: Friday and Saturday nights through October 25
Where: CityLine, 1415 State St, Richardson
Cost: Free
DSO: Troupe Vertigo: Cirque Noir
As though transported to an alternate universe, you'll witness the artists of Troupe Vertigo defying gravity and casting their spell in their show "Cirque Noir." It's an alluring, film noir-inspired circus of thrills and chills, set to a jazzy, nocturnal score, performed by the DSO and composed by Principal Pops Conductor Jeff Tyzik. Experience atmospheric lighting, stunning visuals and choreography, executed by aerial acrobats, dancers and contortionists. This performance will entertain you with riveting feats that are sure to leave you speechless.
When: September 26-28
Where: Meyerson Symphony Center, Dallas
Cost: $47 and up
Discover the magic of spring at the Dallas Zoo's newest attraction, I Spy Butterflies—a walk-through garden filled with fluttering wings, blooming wildflowers, and hands-on fun. Nestled in the newly transformed Wildflower Ridge, this colorful exhibit lets you wander through a lush, pollinator-friendly landscape where hundreds of live butterflies take flight around you. It's a feast for the senses and a chance to learn about these vital creatures from on-site experts. You'll also find a new nature-inspired play area and the charming Monarch Express mini-train nearby—all included with your zoo admission.
Where: Dallas Zoo, 650 South R.L. Thornton Freeway, Dallas
When: Daily through October 26
Cost: Included with general admission
Dark Hour Haunted House in Plano delivers one of DFW's top Halloween thrills, with terrifying live actors, state-of-the-art effects, and cursed halls filled with creatures from your darkest nightmares. Guests can explore spine-chilling sets, experience VIP scare stations, and even dive into folklore at the North American Cryptid Museum add-on. Running select nights with 25–60 minute walkthroughs, this ADA-compliant haunted house promises a night of fear, suspense, and unforgettable scares. Recommended for ages 10 and up—enter if you dare!
Where: Dark Hour Haunted House, 701 Taylor Dr, Plano
When: Sept 25-28 / Oct 2-5 / Oct 9-12 / Oct 16-19 / Oct 23-26 / Oct 23-26 / Oct 30-Nov 1
Cost: $40 - $50
Encounter the 40-foot T-Rex and 13 new life-size animatronic dinosaurs along the Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary's nature trails at the 20th annual Dinosaurs Live! life-size animatronic dinosaurs exhibit. See the dinosaurs move and hear them roar! Photo op and play area dinosaurs will be available as well. This year, the exhibit also features an outdoor fossil dig. Dinosaurs Live! is included in general admission and free for Heard Museum members.
Where: Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, McKinney
When: Daily, September 6 - March 1
Cost: $12-$16 (2 and under free)
El Rey del Pollo reimagines Shakespeare's King Lear as a family-friendly telenovela, blending Elizabethan verse, Spanglish, and modern slang. When fried chicken tycoon Reymundo Lear plans to pass his restaurants to his daughters, family drama, feuds, and comic twists unfold in this fresh, standalone production.
Where: Bath House Cultural Center, 521 E Lawther Dr, Dallas
When: September 25-27
Cost: $15 - $30
Fame Fest: A Wellness Experience
FAME FEST 2025 brings a full day of fitness, music, art, and community to the heart of Dallas, offering everything from workouts and recovery lounges to live music and creative expression. The schedule features R&B All Levels Yoga Flow with Ali Haji (9:50–10:25 a.m.), Pilates Burn with Abgail Lyon (10:40–11:15 a.m.), Sculpt & Trap with Anthony Willis (11:30 a.m.–12:05 p.m.), Strength Circuit with John Michael Race (12:20–12:55 p.m.), and GluteCamp with Bunda (Playlist inspo: Kevin Gates & Little Sims).
Where: Harwood Park, 408 S Harwood St, Dallas
When: Saturday, September 27 at 9 a.m.
Cost: $45
A dazzling fusion of myth and music, Firebird tells the story of a magical creature who helps a young prince defeat evil. With choreography by Artistic Director Chung Lin Tseng, this ballet is a thrilling journey through enchantment, danger, and triumph
Where: Terrell Academy for STEM, 1411 I M Terrell Cir S, Fort Worth
When: September 27-28
Cost: $35 and up
Fort Worth Oktoberfest is three days of Bavarian-style fun packed into Trinity Park. Guests can raise a stein at the Paulaner Festzelt or Hacker-Pschorr Biergarten while enjoying nonstop live music from favorites like the Alex Meixner Band, Walburg Boys, and Happy Hour Oktoberfestband, plus visiting bands from the Czech Republic. Each evening brings festival traditions like the Masskrugstemmen stein-hoisting contests, Oktoberfest Olympics, and festive parachute exhibitions. Beyond the music and games, the Food Haus serves German classics such as bratwurst, schnitzel, potato pancakes, strudel, and Bavarian pretzels, alongside carnival treats.
Where: Trinity Park, 2401 University Dr, Fort Worth
When: Thursday, September 25 - Saturday, September 27
Cost: $10 on Thursday / $15 for Friday or Saturday / $20 for 3 day pass
Fright Fest at Six Flags Over Texas runs on select nights through November 2, filling the park with haunted mazes, scare zones, thrilling shows, and spooky food and drinks. Most rides, scare zones, and live entertainment are included with admission, while specialty food, drinks, mazes, and merchandise are available for purchase.
Where: Six Flags over Texas, Arlington
When: Sept 26-28 / Oct 3-5 / Oct 10-13 / Oct 16-19 / Oct 23-26 / Oct 30-Nov 2
Cost: $69 and up
Game Changer: United by Sports
Game Changer: United by Sports brings to life the power of sports in bridging divides and fostering unity across cultures through rare artifacts and inspirational stories. Visitors will explore pivotal moments when sports brought our nation together, such as President Bush's first pitch at the World Series in New York after 9/11, and learn how legendary athletes like Jesse Owens and Jackie Robinson inspired change far beyond the game. This all-new exhibition explores how sports are interwoven with American history, spotlighting defining moments that put the nation on the world stage. It also highlights historic milestones in sports that are often overlooked in history books yet have played a powerful role in how America is viewed globally – and how Americans view themselves.
Where: George W. Bush Presidential Center, 2943 SMU Boulevard, Dallas
When: Daily through January 10, 2027
Cost: Included with admission ($26 for adults)
Grapevine Main LIVE! is back with an 8-week fall concert series on Fridays from September 5 through October 31, at 7:30 p.m., offering evenings of live music under the stars. Set against the backdrop of Grapevine Main Station, this complimentary concert series features an exciting lineup of tribute bands and talented artists. Guests can enjoy food from eight chef-inspired global kitchens at Harvest Hall as well as specialty crafted cocktails and performances by some of the best local artists and bands in the Metroplex. This week (September 19) it's To-Jo – A Tribute to Toto & Journey.
Where: Peace Plaza in Grapevine
When: Friday nights through October 31 at 7:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
Arts Mission Oak Cliff brings HAIR: The American Tribal Love-Rock Musical to the Bishop Arts area in September 2025, reimagining the 1967 Broadway classic with a Dallas-based creative team. Set during the Vietnam War and the counterculture era, the show follows a tribe of passionate, peace-loving youth seeking love, truth, and freedom. Performed in AMOC's historic sanctuary—transformed into a psychedelic, immersive space—the production blurs the line between performance and participation. With 11 performances planned, this homegrown revival highlights self-expression, community, and Oak Cliff's creative spirit, making HAIR as much a movement as it is a musical. (18+)
Where: Arts Mission Oak Cliff, 410 S Windomere Ave
When: September 25-27
Cost: $15 - $45
Step into the world of Jackie "Moms" Mabley — a trailblazing comedian, fearless truth-teller, and one of the most influential voices in American entertainment. Through humor, heart, and unapologetic wit, this production celebrates her groundbreaking career, her resilience in the face of adversity, and the laughter that made her a legend. (18+)
Where: Jubilee Theatre, Fort Worth
When: September 26-28 / October 3-5 / October 10-11 / October 17-19
Cost: $31
J & F House of Terror returns with a brand-new haunted maze filled with intense scares around every corner. Rebuilt each year for a fresh experience, the attraction has spent the last six seasons at Firewheel Town Center in Garland, where it will once again set up shop—this time inside the former Pete's restaurant near the park. With plenty of nearby dining and entertainment, visitors can make a full night of thrills and fun. As always, entry is at your own risk.
Where: J & F House of Terror, 695 Town Square Blvd, Garland
When: September 26-27 / October 3-4 / October 10-12 / October 16-19 / October 23-26 / October 30-November 1
Cost: $35 and up
The award-winning hit Life of Pi brings Yann Martel's bestselling novel to the stage in a breathtaking production of hope and survival. After a shipwreck in the Pacific, young Pi finds himself stranded on a lifeboat with four unlikely companions—a hyena, zebra, orangutan, and a Royal Bengal tiger. With stunning visuals, masterful puppetry, and inventive stagecraft, this epic story of faith and perseverance continues to captivate audiences on its North American tour.
Where: Bass Performance Hall, Fort Worth
When: September 24-28
Cost: $50 and up
The 2025 McKinney Oktoberfest fills 14 blocks with German food, beer, music, and family fun. The free-admission festival kicks off Friday with a keg-tapping ceremony and parade, followed by three days of bratwurst, schnitzel, strudel, and both imported and local brews from Hofbrau and TUPPS Brewery. Guests can enjoy polka bands, costumed dancers, and strolling accordionists, plus competitions like the beard and mustache contest, stein-holding, and the ever-popular weenie dog races. Families will find plenty at the Kinder Korner with a carnival, petting zoo, crafts, and face painting, while adults can upgrade to the VIP Biergarten for exclusive food, drinks, and live music. Free parking and shuttle service from First McKinney Baptist Church.
Where: Historic Downtown McKinney
When: September 26-28 / Friday, 5 - 11 p.m. • Saturday, 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. • Sunday, 12 - 5 p.m.
Cost: Free
Movie Nights at City Park: Twisters
Enjoy a cozy night under the stars watching a movie at City Park. Bring your blanket and snacks for a fun evening outdoors! Twisters is the movie this Saturday.
Where: City Park, 1515 S Harwood St, Dallas
When: Saturday, September 27 and Saturday, October 25 at 7:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
Moxley Manor Haunted House returns this fall, bringing you three haunted houses for one price! In addition to Moxley Manor, we bring you our mind-blowing 3D Haunted House Big Top Terror and Regan's Revenge
Where: Moxley Manor Haunted House, 510 Harwood Rd, Bedford
When: September 26-27 / October 3-5 / October 10-12 / October 16-19 / October 22-26 / October 29-November 1
Cost: $37 and up
An announcement in the local paper sets the stage for a murder in Miss Blacklock's Victorian house. With unexpected twists and concealed identities, Miss Marple steps in to unravel the mystery.
Where: Stolen Shakespeare Guild, 3623 Decatur Ave, Fort Worth
When: September 25-28
Cost: $25
Experience the adrenaline rush as riders unite for the ultimate glory! This is your chance to witness talented bull riders going head-to-head with powerful bucking bulls to see which team can come out on top! The PBR is NOT a rodeo format, it is two hours of pyro, music and the most intense bull riding action the world has to offer, filled with heart-pounding, bone-crushing action, and a star-studded line up of the worlds best riders and animal athletes.
Where: Dickies Arena, Fort Worth
When: September 26-28 (Fri 7:45PM / Sat 6:45PM / Sun 1:45PM CT)
Cost: $31 and up
Perot Museum – "Bug Lab: A Journey into the World of Insect Ingenuity"
What if the planet's smallest geniuses could share their biggest secrets? Bug Lab is a captivating exhibition exploring the remarkable genius of insects, offering an unparalleled opportunity to experience the world from a bug's perspective. It's opening this weekend at the Perot Museum. Visitors can explore immersive bug chambers, test their reflexes at interactive adaptation stations, and examine real specimens in hands-on labs—all while discovering the incredible abilities, behaviors, and science behind the insect world.
Where: Perot Museum of Nature and Science, Dallas
When: Daily TFN
Cost: $15-$25
Pumpkin Nights at Howell Farms
At PUMPKIN NIGHTS, you will venture along a half-mile walking path, where you'll discover the Forbidden City, a Pirate's Cove, and more fantastical lands built using over 7,500 hand-carved real and artificial pumpkins. The celebration continues with entertainment and games in The Village where fall food, fire dancing, and games set the mood for an unforgettable night.
Where: Howell Family Farms, 4016 W Division St, Arlington
When: September 18 - October 31
Cost: Weekday Adult - $22-26 / Weekday Kid $16-18 / Weekend Adult $32-36 / Weekend Kid $22-26
Where: Longhorn Ballroom, Dallas
When: Saturday, September 20 at 7:45 p.m.
Cost: $65 and up
Fort Worth hosts a culinary competition featuring 16 chefs presenting their dishes for attendees to sample and vote on. Hosted by Chef Tim Love and the Ariat Texas Rattlers, the event offers general admission tastings and a VIP option with early entry, unlimited samples, and a hosted bar serving TX Whiskey cocktails and Deep Ellum Brewery beers.
Where: Stockyards Museum, 131 E Exchange Ave, Fort Worth
When: Saturday, September 27 from Noon - 2:30 p.m.
Cost: $50
Based on Puccini's beloved opera La Bohème, Rent follows the ups and downs of a year in the life of a group of impoverished, artistic friends living in Manhattan's East Village.
Where: Uptown Theater in Grand Prairie, 120 E Main St, Grand Prairie
When: September 26-28
Cost: $22 and up
This lively musical follows schoolmaster Ichabod Crane as he pursues Katrina Van Tassel, despite her jealous suitor Brom Bones. Ghostly spirits and the infamous Headless Horseman complicate matters in a suspenseful tale filled with energetic songs like A Superstitious Yankee Folk, Ghost in the Graveyard, and The Headless Horseman. Suitable for all ages, it's a spirited mix of action, humor, and haunting fun.
Where: Plaza Theater, 521 W State St, Garland
When: Sept 26-28 / Oct 3-5
Cost: $15 - $25
Step into a vibrant blue world at The Smurf Experience, an interactive indoor adventure spanning 13,000 square feet of fun. This immersive playground invites guests to shrink down to Smurf size and take on a mission to stop the wicked Gargamel. As you journey through Smurf Village, the Enchanted Forest, and the villain's hideout, you'll tackle obstacle courses, join scavenger hunts, dive into virtual reality, and meet your favorite Smurf characters along the way.
Where: Esports Stadium Arlington, 1200 Ballpark Way, Arlington
When: Sept 27-28 / Oct 4-5 from 10:00am - 8:30pm
Cost: $30 and up
Told in both English and Spanish and set in the Texas borderlands of the 1880s, this production reframes the classic battle of wills between Katherine and Petruchio with cultural vibrancy and a contemporary lens. Lucentio loves Bianca but cannot court her until her shrewish older sister Katherina marries. The eccentric Petruchio marries the reluctant Katherina and uses a number of tactics to render her an obedient wife. Lucentio marries Bianca and, in a contest at the end, Katherina proves to be the most obedient wife.
Where: Samuell-Grand Amphitheater, 1500 Tenison Pkwy
When: September 25-28 / October 2-5 / October 9-12 / October 16-19
Cost: $15 - $20
Texas Monthly BBQ Family Reunion
An evening of barbecue and dancing invites guests to enjoy dishes from eight featured barbecue joints along with live honky-tonk music and two-stepping under the stars. Ticket options include general admission at $100, which covers food while supplies last, and children's admission at $30 for ages 6–12, with kids five and under admitted free. VIP admission, now sold out, offered additional perks such as a commemorative gift and access to an exclusive lounge and bar.
Where: EpicCentral, Grand Prairie
When: Saturday, September 27 at 6:30 p.m.
Cost: $100 and up
"Uncle Charlie's R&B Cookout" is a 2025 national tour led by R&B icon Charlie Wilson, joined by Babyface, K-Ci Hailey, and El DeBarge. The tour celebrates Black music and community with timeless R&B hits, high-energy performances, and in select cities, the option to attend a VIP pre-show cookout with classic food and drinks.
Where: Pavilion At Toyota Music Factory, Irving
When: Sunday, September 28 at 6:15 p.m.
Cost: $55 and up
We Call it Ballet: Sleeping Beauty Dance and Light Show
We Call It Ballet brings Sleeping Beauty to life at the Irving Arts Center in a dazzling fusion of classical dance and modern technology. Featuring five local dancers in glow-in-the-dark costumes, this 60-minute performance reimagines the beloved fairytale through light, storytelling, and ballet, creating a kaleidoscope of color and movement on stage. Suitable for ages 5 and up, the production offers a fresh, visually stunning take on the timeless tale of the cursed princess and her awakening.
Where: Irving Arts Center, 3333 N MacArthur Blvd, Irving
When: Friday, September 26 at 6:30 p.m. and 9 p.m.
Cost: $35 and up
This Pulitzer Prize winning comedy is one of the most popular and successful plays of all time. The beloved story of the wacky Sycamores and the straightlaced Kirbys, two families – so unlike in manner, politics and finances trying to set aside their differences and find unity.
Where: Theatre Arlington, 305 W Main St, Arlington
When: September 25-28
Cost: $35 - $40
