What to do in Dallas-Fort Worth this October

October is an all-around exciting month: there’s Halloween, milder temperatures, football, and a long list of events that are worth your while. That’s doubly true for the Dallas-Fort Worth area, where you’ll find no shortage of rodeos, state fairs, and concerts to attend. To aid you in making the most out of this month, we’ve put together this list of the top attractions to mark on your calendar.

Big Tex dates back to the 1880s. Back then, it was called the Dallas State Fair & Exposition. Since those days, Big Tex has only grown in size and attendance, becoming the biggest fair in Texas. The event boasts agricultural displays, balloon ascents, contests, and concerts. The live music lineup includes artists such as Flo-Rida, Pat Green, Blane Howard, and the US Marine Drum & Bugle Corps. There are countless entertainment possibilities ranging from culinary attractions to cultural programming, so be sure to check the website for the full roster of activities.

When: Sept 29 – Oct 22
Where: Fair Park – Dallas, TX

Autumn at the Arboretum is a months-long spectacle of glorious fall colors, flowers, and fruit. The 2017 theme is The Wonderful World of Oz and the highlights of this year’s festival are the thousands of Chrysanthemum blooms, the Pumpkin Village, and a special area for kids called the Children’s Adventure Gardens. Bring your whole family out to take pictures against the stunning autumn backdrop.

When: Sept 23 – Nov 22
Where: 8525 Garland Rd – Dallas, TX

If you’re a sports fan, there’s no better time of the year than football season. The Cowboys are well underway since the September kickoff and we can’t wait to see how they play the rest of the season. Come out and support your local team during this month’s home games.

When: Oct 1 and Oct 8
Where: 1 AT&T Way – Arlington, TX

Sports enthusiasts need not fret—football isn’t the only sport in season. October marks the beginning of this year’s basketball season, which means the Mavericks will be hitting the courts at the American Airlines Center for home games. Fall is the best time for watching sports, wouldn’t you say?

When: Various dates
Where: 2500 Victory Ave – Dallas, TX

Another October treat is the start of hockey season. The Stars will sail over the ice and lead exciting matches against teams from around the country. The season kicks off on October 3, so make sure you check out the schedule and fill up your calendar with hockey.

When: Various dates
Where: 2500 Victory Ave – Dallas, TX

The 16th edition of the Southlake Oktoberfest will take place over three days this month in a wild flurry of drinks, beverages, and booth items. Hit the pavement at the Southlake Town Square and browse handcrafted artisan products and listen to live music entertainment with friends and family. Kids get their own special area for play and fun. Best of all? The Southlake Oktoberfest is completely free of charge.

When: Oct 6 – Oct 8
Where: 1560 E Southlake Blvd – Southlake, TX

October is a great month in terms of shows for Dallas locals and visitors alike. Renowned artists such as Bruno Mars, Tim McGraw & Faith Hill, Halsey, and Marc Anthony are set to appear on the stage at the American Airlines Center. Secure your tickets ahead of time, because these musicians sell out entire concert halls in record time.

When: Various dates
Where: 2500 Victory Ave – Dallas, TX

Lauded as the best game in college football, the AT&T Red River Showdown is a longstanding rivalry between the Texas Longhorns and the Oklahoma Sooners. Held at the iconic Cotton Bowl Stadium in Dallas, the showdown brings tens of thousands of fans to the area in support of their chosen team. Be sure to purchase your tickets in advance—you don’t want to miss out on the tremendous energy of the crowd.  

When: Oct 14
Where: 3750 The Midway – Dallas, TX

What could be better than three days packed with autograph sessions, photo calls, panels, and Q&As with your favorite celebrities? The Dallas Fan Days 2017 lineup is an impressive list featuring appearances by characters from Game of Thrones, Supernatural, The Walking Dead, and Stranger Things, among many others.

When: Oct 20 – Oct 22
Where: 500 West Las Colinas Boulevard – Irving, TX

American rapper Kid Cudi will make a stop in Dallas on his Passion, Pain, & Demon Slayin’ tour. The album’s received rave reviews from critics, marking Kid Cudi’s return to rap following a brief stint experimenting with alternative rock. The concert will take place at The Bomb Factory, a popular live music venue in Deep Ellum.

When: Oct 22
Where: 2713 S Canton St – Dallas, TX

DFW is alive with thrilling adventures for gastronomic connoisseurs, sports fans, and music lovers alike this October. Don’t miss out!