Autumn in the Dallas-Fort Worth area is a vibrant tapestry of pumpkin patches, cultural celebrations, and seasonal delights. Whether you’re a local or planning a visit, here’s your comprehensive guide to the must-attend fall events in DFW this year.
🎃 Family-Friendly Festivals
1. Autumn at the Arboretum
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Dates: September 20 – November 3
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Location: Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden
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Highlights: Over 100,000 pumpkins, gourds, and squash from Floydada, Texas. This year’s theme, “¡Mundo México!”, celebrates Mexican culture with vibrant displays and family-friendly activities. Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden
2. DFW Fall Fest
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Date: October 18, 2025, 10 AM – 2 PM
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Location: Frisco Fresh Market
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Highlights: A free, family-friendly event featuring live music, food trucks, pumpkin decorating, and hands-on activities for all ages. DFW Fall Fest
3. Boo at the Zoo
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Dates: October 24–26, 2025
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Location: Fort Worth Zoo
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Highlights: A daytime Halloween event with treat stations, animal encounters, and themed entertainment, all included with zoo admission. nikkicavinessphotography.com
🎶 Music & Cultural Celebrations
4. Oktoberfest Fort Worth
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Dates: October 2–5, 2025
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Location: Panther Island Pavilion, Fort Worth
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Highlights: Authentic German food, live music, stein-hoisting contests, and traditional Oktoberfest games. Town North Mazda
5. McKinney Oktoberfest
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Dates: September 26–28, 2025
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Location: Downtown McKinney
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Highlights: German food, live music, and family-friendly activities in a charming historic setting. Community Impact
6. McKinney’s Día de los Muertos
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Date: October 11, 2025
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Location: Dr. Glenn Mitchell Memorial Park
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Highlights: Colorful altars, traditional music, authentic eats, and family-friendly activities celebrating the Day of the Dead. Dallasites101
🏞️ Outdoor & Seasonal Fun
7. Yesterland Farm Fall Festival & Spooktacular Nights
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Dates: September 28 – October 31, 2025
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Location: Yesterland Farm, Canton
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Highlights: Pick-your-own sunflowers, pumpkin patch, corn maze, pig races, and spooky nighttime activities like Zombie Paintball and a haunted fun house. Dallasites101
8. Ennis Autumn Daze
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Dates: October 25–26, 2025
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Location: Historic Downtown Ennis
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Highlights: Live music, hay maze, carnival rides, pumpkin patch, cornhole tournament, and numerous fall-themed photo opportunities. Dallasites101
🛍️ Arts, Crafts & Markets
9. Christmas in Cowtown Holiday Gift Market
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Dates: October 8–12, 2025
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Location: Amon G. Carter Exhibit Halls at Will Rogers Memorial Center, Fort Worth
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Highlights: Over 250 merchants offering home décor, gifts, and more, supporting local nonprofits. nikkicavinessphotography.com
10. Cottonwood Art Festival
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Dates: October 4–5, 2025
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Location: Cottonwood Park, Richardson
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Highlights: Over 197 artists showcasing their work, with hands-on art activities for children. Community Impact
🎭 Music & Performances
11. Candlelight Concert Series
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Dates: Various dates in October 2025
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Location: Various venues in Dallas
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Highlights: Intimate live performances of classical music tributes to artists like Vivaldi, Adele, and Beyoncé, set against the backdrop of candlelight ambiance. myguidedallas.com
🧛 Haunted Attractions
12. Cutting Edge Haunted House
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Dates: October 2025
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Location: Fort Worth
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Highlights: The Guinness World Record holder for the world’s largest haunted house, featuring over 235,000 square feet of spine-chilling attractions. Town North Mazda
🏅 Sports & Community Events
13. Special Olympics Texas – Statewide Fall Classic
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Dates: October 2–4, 2025
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Location: Midland & Odessa
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Highlights: Athletes from across DFW and New Mexico compete in events like golf, swimming, bocce, and softball, with community volunteers playing a crucial role. Midland Reporter-Telegram
📅 Plan Your Visit
For a complete list of events, including dates, locations, and ticket information, visit Dallasites101’s Fall Festival Guide. Additionally, VisitDallas.com offers a curated calendar of events happening throughout September in Dallas.
🧡 Tips for Enjoying Fall in DFW
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Stay Hydrated: Texas weather can be unpredictable; always carry water, especially during outdoor events.
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Dress in Layers: Mornings and evenings can be cool, while afternoons may be warm.
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Arrive Early: Many events offer early bird specials or limited parking; arriving early ensures a smoother experience.
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Check Event Websites: Always verify event details, as dates and times can change.
