Celebrate the Best of Texas: Family-Friendly Fall Festivals and Perfect Weather
Discover > Truly Texan > Celebrate the Best of Texas: Family-Friendly Fall Festivals and Perfect Weather
As the leaves begin to change and a gentle breeze sweeps through the Lone Star State, there's a magical transformation that takes place in Texas. The scorching summer heat gradually subsides, making way for a more inviting and enjoyable outdoor atmosphere.
It's during this enchanting season that Texas comes alive with a plethora of family-friendly fall festivals, each offering a unique blend of cultural experiences, mouthwatering treats, and captivating entertainment.
In this article, we'll delve into the alluring world of these festivals and the delightful weather that accompanies them, inviting you to embrace the beauty and diversity of Texas during this enchanting time of year.
So, grab your pumpkin-spiced latte, and let's embark on a journey to discover the captivating allure of family-friendly Texas fall festivals and the delightful weather that makes them even more unforgettable.
The food is usually richer and more nutritious as it gets colder and you get to use more of the seasonal and locally grown plants. Here are a few seasonal dishes to help you do just that.
North Texas Fall Festivals
In North Texas, we're all too familiar with the scorching summer heat, but with autumn on the horizon, we're crossing our fingers for cooler weather to fully enjoy the upcoming outdoor Texas fall festivals. Mark your calendars for these exciting events:
Fall Vintage Market Days - Denton
Dates: September 29 – October 1, 2023
Time: 10 am-4 pm
Location: NRS Event Center Decatur, 309 County Road 4228 Decatur, TX 76234
Tickets: Friday - $15; Sat-Sun - $10; Children under 12 are free.
Dallas Arboretum - Dallas
Dates: September 16 – November 5, 2023
Time: 9 am-5 pm
Location: 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas, TX 75218
Highlights: Explore the enchanting pumpkin village with the theme "It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown." Ideal for family photos. No pets.
Tickets: General - $14-$20 (online); Parking - $11 (online).
GrapeFest - A Texas Wine Experience - Grapevine
Dates: September 14-17, 2023
Time: 11 am onwards
Location: 636 S. Main Street, Grapevine, TX
Highlights: Grapevine's 37th Annual GrapeFest features wines from around the world and Texas. Various ticket options available, including a People's Choice ticket for $28.
Tickets: Available online; Thursday - Free all day; Friday - Adults $10, 62+ and children $5; Saturday - Adults $10, 62+ and children $5; Sunday - Adults $10, 62+ and children $5.
Oktoberfest Fort Worth - Fort Worth
Dates: September 21-23, 2023
Location: Trinity Park, Fort Worth
Highlights: Get your lederhosen and dirndl ready for this 3-day German fest featuring German bier, food, live music, and more.
Tickets: $10-$20 (online).
Fort Worth Zoo - Boo at the Zoo!
Dates: Halloween Weekend (October 27-29, 2023)
Location: Fort Worth Zoo, 1989 Colonial Parkway
Time: 9 am-4 pm
Highlights: Don your costumes and enjoy a day at Fort Worth Zoo with Halloween-themed fun.
Tickets: $13-$17; Parking - $5.
Mesquite’s Pumpkinfest - Mesquite
Date: October 21, 2023
Time: Noon-5 pm
Location: Paschall Park, 1001 New Market Rd.
Highlights: A family-friendly event with costume contests and fun for all ages.
Admission: FREE, with food and fun for purchase.
Fright Fest at Six Flags Over Texas - Arlington
Dates: September 15 – October 31, 2023
Location: 2201 Road to Six Flags, Arlington, TX 76011
Highlights: Experience thrilling rides, haunted houses, and a spooky Halloween event.
State Fair of Texas 2023 - Dallas
Dates: September 29 – October 22, 2023
Location: Fair Park, 3809 Grand Ave, Dallas, TX 75210
Highlights: Don't miss Big Tex and a wide range of attractions and delicious fair food.
Tickets: Various deals and prices available on the website; Daily tickets - $15-$20.
Team Family Farms - Aubrey
Dates: September 30 – November 5, 2023
Time: 10 am-7 pm
Location: 1042 W Sherman Dr, Aubrey, TX
Highlights: Barrel train rides, farm animals, and more for kids. Photo ops, Texas Longhorns, and food for purchase.
Tickets: M-F $12; Weekends $15 (2 yrs & up); No pets allowed.
Mainstay Farm Park Pumpkin Days - Cleburne
Dates: September 23 – November 4, 2023 (Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays)
Location: 1004 W Bethesda Rd, Cleburne, TX 76031
Highlights: Enjoy over 40 activities for the family, including a Ferris wheel and delicious food options.
Admission: Farm Pass $25-$30 (last year's prices).
Please note that some event details are tentative, so it's a good idea to check the respective websites for the most up-to-date information. Enjoy the fall season and these fantastic festivals in North Texas!
East Texas Fall Festivals
In East Texas, exciting events are on the horizon with these upcoming dates:
39th Annual Texas State Forest Festival - Lufkin
Dates: September 14-17, 2023 (times vary)
Highlights: Prepare for a fantastic time with carnival rides, a captivating car show, a dedicated kids' area, thrilling ax throwing, and much more at the 39th Annual Texas State Forest Festival.
Location: George H. Henderson Exposition Center, Lufkin, TX.
Tickets: Available for $8 at the gate.
Blueberry Ridge Farm Pumpkin Patch - Mineola
Date: September 30, 2023 (Opening day)
Location: Blueberry Ridge Farm, 2785 US-80, Mineola, TX 75773
Highlights: Just beyond Mineola lies the organic you-pick farm, Blueberry Ridge Farm. If you have the entire day to spare, make sure to explore downtown Mineola, which boasts charming shops with unique finds.
Tickets: Details to be confirmed.
Texas Rose Festival - Tyler
Dates: October 19-22, 2023
Location: 420 Rose Park Dr, Tyler, TX 75702
Highlights: Join in the celebration of Tyler's 90th annual Texas Rose Festival, themed "The Story of Film." Visit the Tyler Rose Museum and discover why Tyler is known as the "Rose Capital of America."
These East Texas events promise entertainment, culture, and the spirit of celebration. Mark your calendars and get ready to make cherished memories at these upcoming gatherings.
Texas Hill Country Fall Festivals
In the heart of the captivating Texas Hill Country, you won't want to miss these exciting events, each with its unique charm and offerings:
Dripping Springs Pumpkin Festival - Dripping Springs
Dates: September 23 – October 29, 2023
Time: 10 am to 7 pm, rain or shine – spanning six delightful weekends!
Location: Dr. Pound Historical Farmstead, a Texas State Historical Landmark.
Highlights: Every weekend brings a fresh experience with a variety of games and activities for the entire family, including pony rides, face painting, a petting zoo, delectable food trucks, live music, a bustling marketplace, and a bountiful pumpkin patch.
Tickets: Available at $15 for Saturdays and Sundays; Parking is FREE.
Sweet Berry Farms Harvest of Fall Fun – Marble Falls
Dates: September 23 – November 5, 2023
Location: 801 FM1980, Marble Falls, TX 78654
Highlights: Sweet Berry Farms presents its Harvest of Fall Fun, offering a plethora of family-friendly activities during the autumn season. Don't miss the chance to stuff a scarecrow or explore the many pumpkin varieties, mazes, scarecrow stuffing, delightful food options, and more. While there's no admission or parking fee, certain activities will have associated costs, with cash and credit cards accepted.
Texas Marigold Festival Market – Blanco
Dates: October 23-28, 2023
Location: 300 Main Street, Blanco, TX
Highlights: Join in the festivities of the 3rd Annual TX Marigold Festival in one of the beloved towns nestled in the Texas Hill Country.
These Hill Country events promise memorable moments, cultural celebrations, and an abundance of autumn fun. Mark your calendars and relish the splendors of this beautiful region during the fall season.
Central Texas Fall Festivals
In Central Texas, mark your calendars for these exciting events:
Texas Pumpkin Fest - Leander
Dates: September 30 – October 29, 2023
Time: 10 am-7 pm (Thurs-Sun only)
Location: Texas Pumpkin Fest, 8760 FM 2243, Leander, TX
Highlights: Explore the Texas Pumpkin Fest, featuring a range of activities. Enjoy Thursdays at $10 and Fridays/Saturdays at $13, with lots included in the price, plus some attractions available for an additional fee.
49th Texas Renaissance Festival - Todd Mission
Dates: October 7 – November 26, 2023
Time: 9 am - 8 pm (Including Thanksgiving Friday)
Location: 21778 FM 1774, Todd Mission, TX
Highlights: Embark on an eight-week journey through various themes at the Texas Renaissance Festival. Tickets vary, and season passes of all prices are available. Check the TRF website for details; tickets are on sale now.
Stagecoach Pumpkin Palooza - Early
Dates: October 27-29, 2023
Time: Starting at 4 p.m.
Location: 400 Old Comanche Rd, Early
Highlights: Join in the fun with live music featuring the Zak Webb Band, trunk or treat, games, food vendors, hay rides, and more.
Admission: FREE
Don't miss out on the diverse array of events in Central Texas, offering something for everyone to enjoy this fall.
West Texas Fall Festivals
In West Texas, be sure to save the date for a delightful event:
Fall Fest Abilene - Abilene
Date: October 28, 2023
Time: Noon to 6 pm
Venue: Handmade Market at Allen Ridge
Highlights: Immerse yourself in the Fall Fest Abilene, featuring a Handmade Market with vendors, live music, exciting activities for kids, and much more.
South Texas Fall Festivals
In South Texas, don't miss these exciting events on your calendar:
P-6 Farms Fall Festival – Montgomery
Dates: September 30 – November 5, 2023
Time: 10 am-6:30 pm, Saturdays and Sundays
Location: P-6 Farms, 9963 Pooles Rd, Montgomery, TX
Highlights: Experience a U-pick pumpkin patch and the opportunity to pick your own flowers. Stay tuned for fall date announcements at P-6 Farms, home to the largest pumpkin picking event. Find that perfect pumpkin for your front porch.
Tickets: Priced at $22 (last year). Tickets will be available for purchase starting on August 28, 2023.
Annular Eclipse Utopiafest 2023 – Utopia
Dates: October 13-14, 2023
Venue: Four Sisters Ranch
Highlights: Utopiafest 2023 unfolds at Four Sisters Ranch, offering a family-friendly environment with BYOB, two main stages, free tent camping and parking, hiking, mountain biking, vendors, workshops, yoga, disc golf, and a pre-party on the 12th. A truly WOW-worthy experience!
Tickets: Various prices and packages are available; please refer to the website for details.
These South Texas events promise an array of experiences for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to check them out and make the most of your fall season!
Summary
Celebrate the Best of Texas this fall with an abundance of family-friendly festivals set against the backdrop of perfect weather. Across various regions of the Lone Star State, you can immerse yourself in the spirit of the season with a diverse array of events. From vintage markets, wine tastings, and vibrant pumpkin festivals to Renaissance celebrations, live music, and celestial events like an annular eclipse, Texas has something for everyone. With each region offering its unique charm and activities, you can enjoy the best of Texas while relishing the pleasant fall weather. Get ready to make cherished memories and savor the essence of autumn in the heart of Texas.
