The Fall Festival at the Dallas Arboretum is an event not to miss. The Dallas Arboretum transforms at the end of the summer into Fall. A uniquely enchanting experience for children. The Arboretum offers activities, attractions and more designed for young minds. This magical world will leave memories in your little ones for years to come. Here are just a few things the Arboretum has for kids to explore:
Pumpkin Village
The Pumpkin Village is the crown jewel of the Fall Festival and a highlight for kids. This whimsical village is constructed from over 90,000 pumpkins, gourds, and squash, creating a fantastical environment where children can explore pumpkin houses, interact with themed displays, and take part in fun photo opportunities. The sheer scale and creativity of Pumpkin Village make it a captivating playground for children, sparking their imaginations and providing endless entertainment. Imagine the fun, lasting memories with tons of cute photo options to have for years to come.
Children’s Adventure Garden
The Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden is an integral part of the festival, dedicated to providing interactive and educational experiences for kids. This garden features numerous hands-on exhibits and activities that teach children about nature, science, and the environment in engaging ways. Highlights include:
- Texas Skywalk: A thrilling canopy walk where kids can explore the treetops and learn about forest ecosystems.
- First Adventure: Designed for toddlers, this area includes a sandbox, plant petting zoo, and water play features.
- Plants Are Alive: An interactive exhibit that helps children understand plant biology and the importance of plants in our ecosystem.
Interactive Workshops and Demonstrations
The Fall Festival offers a variety of workshops and demonstrations. Check the Fall Festival page for current information on all the options. There are several options to choose from. Start with interactive options like walks around the Arboretum learning about different types of pumpkins and gourds. Learn what pumpkins are good for eating, cooking and how they taste. Take a cooking class at A Tasteful Place and many other classes and demonstrations.
Live Entertainment and Storytelling
On weekends, the Dallas Arboretum hosts live entertainment and storytelling sessions that captivate children of all ages. Performances by musicians, magicians, and storytellers add an extra layer of excitement to the festival. These events often feature interactive elements, encouraging kids to participate and engage with the performers. Storytelling sessions are a hit, as they bring autumn-themed tales to life in an enchanting garden setting.
Petting Zoo and Animal Encounters
The petting zoo is a hit every year at the Fall Festival at the Arboretum. Check the website to make sure when the petting zoo will be there for up-to-date times. Animal lovers will delight in the petting zoo and animal encounter areas. Children can meet and interact with friendly farm animals such as goats, sheep, and rabbits. These encounters provide a hands-on experience that helps kids learn about different animals and their care. Additionally, special animal shows and demonstrations offer fascinating insights into wildlife, making the festival both fun and educational.
Halloweekend
Halloween is a part of the Fall Festival at the Dallas Arboretum, with special events that let kids celebrate in style. Trick-or-treating happens on Halloweekend. The event happens every year on Halloween weekend. There will be trick-or treating throughout the garden. A petting zoo and live music on the Martin Rutchik Concert Stage and Lawn area. The kids will have a chance to answer Halloween riddles and walk on the orange carpet!
DISD Family Fun Weekend
The DISD Family Fun weekend has many family favorites: Country Critters Petting Zoo will be attending. Dallas Arboretum Volunteer Advisory board will be taking family keepsake photos for a donation to the VAB. There will be a vendor market, and other activities for families. Live music happening on the Martin Rutchik Concert stage and Lawn.
BOGO Wednesday
The Fall Festival at the Dallas Arboretum has so many options. Make sure not to miss visiting during the Fall Festival. A great day to attend the event is on Wednesdays. Wednesdays at the Arboretum are Buy one get one Free. Buy one ticket and get the lowest price ticket free. If you are attending with kid’s adult tickets will be full price and children’s tickets free. Remember Parking is not included in the BOGO option. Parking is not free at the Dallas Arboretum.
Educational Opportunities
The Fall Festival offers the opportunity to see all the Arboretum. Kids will be able to enjoy the everyday exhibits as well as the Fall Festival. Beyond just fun, the Dallas Arboretum places a strong emphasis on education. The various exhibits and programs are designed to teach children about botany, ecology, and sustainability. Interactive displays and knowledgeable staff provide information in an engaging and accessible manner, helping children gain a deeper appreciation for the natural world.
Dallas Gourd Patch
Do not miss the weekly Dallas Gourd Patch with displays and demons of the amazing squash art. There are demonstrations on how to transform gourds into decorations, and beautiful jewelry. These items will be for sale each week and one final Gourd Show and Sale at the end of October. Check HERE for current dates.
The Fall Festival at the Dallas Arboretum is a magical place for children, from exploring the enchanting Pumpkin Village to participating in interactive workshops and enjoying live entertainment, there’s something to captivate everyone.
For families looking to celebrate the beauty of autumn, the Dallas Arboretum’s Fall Festival is an unmissable event that promises joy and adventure for children of all ages.
