Pumpkin spice and everything nice—it’s time for fall festivals in Dallas, ya’ll!
Dallas is the place to be. It comes alive with family-fun events, memorable festivals, and fall fun that is Texas-sized!
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Dallas is home to exciting festivals that celebrate everything from food and culture to music and art.
Here are the 10 best fall festivals in Dallas, guaranteed to make your season unforgettable:
DFW Fall Fest
First of all, the DFW Fall Fest is FREE (even the parking!) and will quickly become a beloved family tradition.
It’s everything you love about fall festivals in Dallas: kid-loving live entertainment, DIY craft stations, face painting, a petting zoo, balloon art, special treats from the Frisco Fresh Market, and dozens of family-related vendors.
Seriously, it’s something for everyone—from toddlers to grandparents.
Details
- When: October 19, 2024
- Where: 9215 John W. Elliott Dr. Frisco, TX, 75033 (Frisco Fresh Market)
- Cost: Free Admission
Get your free tickets to the DFW Fall Fest 2024!
State Fair of Texas
The State Fair of Texas is a legendary must-visit fall tradition right here in DFW.
Established in 1886, it has become the longest-running fair and one of the largest fairs in the country!
With thrilling rides, live music performances, and a vast array of food stalls offering everything from deep-fried delicacies to classic Texan BBQ, it’s no wonder this fair attracts millions of visitors each year.
Be sure to catch the nightly parade and the iconic Big Tex, a 55-foot cowboy who greets visitors with his welcoming wave.
On top of all of that, this year, your ticket gets you into a free rodeo!
We suggest getting season passes because it’s 24 days of Texas-sized fun at a very cost-efficient price!
Details
- When: September 27 – October 20, 2024
- Where: Parry Ave & Exposition Ave, Dallas, TX 75210 (The Grounds of Fair Park)
- Cost: Prices vary by day of week. Ticket prices start at $15 for adults and $10 for children or seniors.
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Dallas Oktoberfest
Raise and stein—it’s Dallas Oktoberfest time!
Skip the long flight and drive on over to Flag Pole Hill. This lively festival is a nod to the traditional Bavarian festival.
You’ll find authentic German food, music, beer, and even fun activities for kids! Don’t forget to dress in your best lederhosen or dirndl for the costume contest.
Details
- When: October 5, 2024
- Where: 8100 Doran Circle, Dallas, Texas 75238 (Flagpole Hill)
- Cost: Adult tickets are $25, ages 4-17 are $12, and kids under 4 are free
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Downtown Dallas Fall Festival
If you crave handmade crafts, tasty fall treats, family fun, and Texas hospitality, head on over to the Downtown Dallas Fall Festival located at Pegasus Plaza!
Shop before you drop and get a head start on holiday gifts!
Details
- When: September 29, 2024
- Where: 1500 Main St. Dallas, TX (Pegasus Plaza)
- Cost: Free Admission
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Autumn at the Arboretum
You’ve found THE pumpkin capital of Texas, right here in DFW.
Autumn at the Arboretum is a breathtaking fall festival held at the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden.
From late September to early November, the garden is transformed into a fall wonderland with over 90,000 pumpkins, gourds, and squash arranged into stunning displays. And by 90,000 pumpkins, we really mean it.
Each year features a unique theme, and this year’s theme is Texas Town, taking your family on a journey through Texas history. In addition to all of the family-fun activities, the arboretum also hosts events like cooking demonstrations and live demonstrations.
Details
- When: September 21 – November 3, 2024
- Where: 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas, TX 75218 (Dallas Arboretum)
- Cost: Varies by day, month, time and access level
Plano Balloon Festival
The Plano Balloon Festival is a spectacular sight that lights up the fall sky with vibrant colors, sky diving, concerts, drone shows, a kid’s Fun Zone, unique food vendors, and so much more! A dazzling event and a lovely way to spend a crisp fall evening.
Details
- When: September 19 – September 22, 2024
- Where: 2801 E Spring Creek Pkwy, Plano, TX 75074.
- Cost: $10 for adults, $5 for kids 3-12 and seniors 65+, and free for kiddos under 36″
Learn more via our Full Guide to the Plano Balloon Festival
Cottonwood Art Festival
Celebrate creativity and craftsmanship at the Cottonwood Art Festival in Richardson, just north of Dallas.
This lovely fall festival showcases the work of over 240 artists from around the country. Visitors can shop for local art, such as paintings, sculptures, jewelry, and house decor. Expect live music performances, food vendors, and a dedicated children’s area with art activities!
It also is a great place to stock up on beautiful holiday gifts!
Details
- When: October 5 – 7, 2024
- Where: 1321 W Belt Line Rd, Richardson, TX, United States
- Cost: Free Admission
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The Rubber Duck Regatta & Jeep Festival
Duck, duck…Jeep!
This quirky and exciting Rubber Duck Regatta & Jeep Festival is perfect for families and Jeep lovers alike! Picture thousands of rubber ducks racing down the Trinity River in a lively, silly fall festival in Dallas. Families can “adopt” a duck, with proceeds supporting local charities.
Alongside the duck race, the Jeep Festival showcases a variety of Jeeps, offering thrilling off-road demonstrations and displays. With food vendors, live music, and mini Jeep rides for kids, this festival is totally fun and unique!
Details
- When: October 12, 2024
- Where: 2059 Summer Lee Dr, Rockwall, TX 75032 (The Harbor Rockwall)
- Cost: TBD
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Boo at the Zoo
Hosted by the Fort Worth Zoo, Boo at the Zoo is a beloved Halloween tradition and a mom-favorite.
This event, held over several weekends in October, is a safe and fun environment for trick-or-treating, with explore sweets stations scattered throughout the zoo.
In addition to candy collecting, families can enjoy animal-themed shows, crafts, and games. Boo at the Zoo is a fantastic way to celebrate Halloween and enjoy being part of the animal kingdom!
Perhaps an animal-themed costume is in order?!
Details
- When: October 25 – 27, 2024
- Where: 1989 Colonial Pkwy, Fort Worth, TX 76110 (Fort Worth Zoo)
- Cost: $19 for adults, $15 for children and seniors. On Wednesdays, tickets are half-price, costing $10 for adults and $8 for children and seniors.
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One Last Tip
Let the fall festivals in Dallas add magic to your season!
Whether you’re looking to savor the colors of autumn, celebrate Texas traditions, or just soak in the feeling of the season, these fall festivals in Dallas provide the perfect opportunity to make the most of the season.
PS: See you at the free DFW Fall Fest!
