Things to Do in Dallas This Weekend: DFW Events for September 25–27, 2026
Looking for things to do in Dallas this weekend? Fall is here in North Texas, and the last weekend of September is one of the busiest of the year. The State Fair of Texas opens, McKinney Oktoberfest takes over downtown, and Broadway star Idina Menzel performs with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra. Whether you want family-friendly activities in DFW, a date night in Dallas, or a charity event, this guide covers the best Dallas-Fort Worth weekend events.
State Fair of Texas 2026: Opening Weekend in Dallas 🎡🤠
When: September 25–27 | 10:00 AM
Where: Fair Park, Dallas
The State Fair of Texas returns to Fair Park, and opening weekend is one of the best times to go. Try this year's fried food creations, see the famous butter sculptures, and stay for the nightly fireworks. You can ride the Midway, take a spin on the Top o' Texas Tower, and see State Fair concerts from Clint Black and Bowling for Soup. It's one of the top fall events in Dallas for families and adults.
👉 Buy State Fair of Texas Tickets
Pantry in the Park 2026: Wilkinson Center Charity Event in Dallas 🍸🥫
When: September 25 | 6:00 PM
Where: Dallas
The Wilkinson Center's 4th Annual Pantry in the Park has a nautical theme this year. Enjoy craft cocktails, food, live music, and a silent auction, all supporting the Wilkinson Center's mission to help Dallas families. If you're looking for charity events in Dallas or a meaningful night out, this one is worth attending.
👉 Buy Pantry in the Park Tickets
An Idiot's Guide to Wine: Comedy Wine Tasting in Dallas 🍷🍇
When: September 25 | Various Times
Where: Dallas
This comedy wine tasting in Dallas pairs stand-up with a guided tasting of six curated wines. You don't need to know anything about wine to enjoy it. It's a relaxed, funny way to find a new favorite bottle and a great date night idea in Dallas.
McKinney Oktoberfest 2026 🍺🇩🇪
When: September 25–27 | Various Times
Where: Historic Downtown McKinney
McKinney Oktoberfest is one of the most popular Oktoberfest celebrations in North Texas. Put on your lederhosen and enjoy traditional German music, folk dancing, German food, and beer. Carnival rides and kids' activities make it one of the best family-friendly events in Collin County this fall.
👉 Learn More About McKinney Oktoberfest
Dinosaurs Live! at the Heard Natural Science Museum in McKinney 🦖🏞️
When: September 26 (Opening Day) | 9:00 AM
Where: Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, McKinney
Dinosaurs Live! opens at the Heard Museum in McKinney. Walk the nature trails and see a 40-foot T-Rex and other life-size animatronic dinosaurs. Kids can dig for fossils, take photos, and explore. It's one of the best outdoor activities for kids in DFW.
Idina Menzel with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra: 2026 Gala Concert 🎻🎤
When: September 26 | 8:45 PM
Where: Dallas
Tony Award winner Idina Menzel, the star of Wicked, Rent, and Frozen, joins the Dallas Symphony Orchestra for its gala concert. This is a rare chance to hear her voice with a full orchestra, and it's a highlight of the Dallas arts and culture season.
👉 Buy Idina Menzel DSO Gala Tickets
Monster Truck Wars in Denton 🛻🛞
When: September 26–27 | Various Times
Where: Denton
Monster Truck Wars brings 10,000-pound trucks like T-Rex to Denton. The show also has robot battles and Kids' Power Wheel races. Kids can even ride inside a real monster truck. It's a great pick if you're looking for things to do with kids near Dallas.
👉 Buy Monster Truck Wars Tickets
Frequently Asked Questions About Dallas Weekend Events
What are the best things to do in Dallas this weekend?
For September 25–27, 2026, the top Dallas events are the State Fair of Texas opening weekend, Idina Menzel with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, Pantry in the Park, and a comedy wine tasting.
When does the State Fair of Texas 2026 open?
The State Fair of Texas opens September 25, 2026, at Fair Park in Dallas.
Are there family-friendly events in DFW this weekend?
Yes. The State Fair, McKinney Oktoberfest, Dinosaurs Live! at the Heard Museum, and Monster Truck Wars in Denton are all good for kids.
When is McKinney Oktoberfest 2026?
McKinney Oktoberfest runs September 25–27, 2026, in Historic Downtown McKinney.
Living in North Dallas
Weekends like this are one reason so many people love living in North Dallas and the surrounding suburbs. Fair Park, downtown McKinney, and the Heard are all an easy drive away. If you or someone you know is thinking about buying or selling a home in North Dallas, Preston Hollow, Bent Tree, or Far North Dallas this fall, I'd love to help.
Brandon Travelstead
REALTOR® | Compass
M: 469.223.0711
[email protected]
