Fall is finally here! Have a look at our round-up of kid-friendly October events in and around Dallas. Find even more things to do in the metroplex on Collin County Moms, Denton County Moms, and Fort Worth Moms.
And be sure to check out these additional guides to help you with fall fun:
- 9 Family-Friendly Farms and Petting Zoos in North Texas
- A Guide to Fall Fun in Dallas :: Events, Farms, Mazes, and Pumpkin Patches, and More
- A Mom’s Guide to the State Fair of Texas
- What to Know When You Attend a Dallas Cowboys Game with Kids
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Click the tabs to see events for each week.
Classic Cartoons and Crafts :: Lancaster Theatre
Tuesdays
Little ones make themed crafts, eat popcorn, and enjoy drinks as they watch a cartoon movie at 10:00 a.m. Tickets are $6 per child and $3 per adult.
Cool Thursdays Concert Series :: Dallas Arboretum
Thursdays
Pack a picnic and enjoy live concerts against the backdrop of White Rock Lake at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $15 for kids, $39 for seniors, and $41 for adults. Become a member and get a discount.
Irving Music on Main :: Heritage Park
Fridays
Enjoy FREE family concerts and activities every Friday in October beginning at 7:00 p.m. Bring lawn chairs and blankets. Dine at a nearby restaurant, or bring your own snacks.
Shakespeare in the Park :: Samuell-Grand Amphitheater
All Month – Select Dates
Performances run weekends, Thursday – Sunday, October 3 – 13. General admission starts at $20 per person. See website for show times and parking information.
State Fair of Texas :: Fair Park
Daily
Experience the North Texas tradition with Big Tex, rides, and corny dogs. Single tickets and season passes can be purchased online or at the gate. Gates open daily at 10:00 a.m. through October 20.
WalkSTEM :: Klyde Warren Park
Daily
Explore STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) connections through app-guided walking tours of Klyde Warren Park in Dallas. The FREE event is for kids ages eight and up.
October 1
Sensory Friendly Hours at Squishable :: Galleria Dallas
Squishable fans with special sensory needs can browse with reduced lighting and sound from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. through October 1. This is a FREE event.
October 3
JumpstART Stories & Art :: Irving Arts Center
All supplies are provided as kids ages two and up hear themed stories, make art projects, and browse the galleries beginning at 10:00 a.m. Admission is FREE.
October 1 – 12
Latinidades International Theatre Festival :: Latino Cultural Center
Celebrate Latin American culture, dance, food, and theater with performances, demonstrations, and activities for all ages. Purchase tickets to individual festival events online.
October 4
First Fridays at the Farm :: Nash Farm
Enjoy games hosted by farmhands from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. in Grapevine. Tickets are $5 for kids ages three and up.
Music Made Here at the Pavilion :: Downtown Garland Square
First Fridays outdoor concerts are featured beginning at 7:00 p.m. Concert goers of all ages will experience local musicians, dining, and an activity area. Admission is FREE.
October 4 – 6
Stars of Texas Music Festival :: Texas Motorplex
Celebrate Texas culture at this music festival with family events, activities, cuisine, and more over three days in Ennis. Tickets start at $49 at the door.
October 4 – 13
Stampede of Speed :: Texas Motorplex
This festival offers music, drag racing, and family activities over 10 ten days. A variety of pricing packages are offered. Camping and RV sites are available.
October 5
Bear Creek Short Line Excursion :: Cotton Belt Depot
Visitors of all ages step back in time as they ride the Grapevine Vintage Railroad down historic Main Street. All aboard at 10:30 a.m. Tickets range from $10 – $12 per person.
Oak Cliff Nature Preserve Workday :: Oak Cliff Nature Preserve
Register at 8:45 a.m. to help restore this 121-acre neighborhood treasure from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Kids over 12 are welcomed to help out. Wear closed-toe shoes and bring water.
Saturday Make and Take Crafts :: Coppell Arts Center
FREE make-and-take crafts are available to kids ages three – 12 during this come-and-go event from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Tri-City Cleanup :: Halff Park at Ranger Drive
Volunteers of all ages and abilities keep Garland waterways litter free around Spring Creek Preserve from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Stay afterwards for treats and entertainment at Hella Shrine events center.
October 5 – October 20
Grace for President :: Dallas Children’s Theater
For audiences ages six and up, this timely production follows the journey of a third grader who wants to be the first female president in her class. Tickets start at $20.
October 6
Free First Sundays: Access for All :: Dallas Museum of Art
No reservations required on first Sundays at the Dallas Museum of Art. Experience special exhibits for FREE from 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. through December.
October 8
Homeschool Day :: Dallas Zoo
Homeschoolers learn to make a better world for animals with interactive activities. Hours are 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Admission is $10 for nonmembers and FREE for members.
October 9, 10, 12
Friends of the CPL Book Sale :: Carrollton Public Library @ Hebron & Josey
Stock up on books, movies, and music for all ages at this annual book sale. Admission is FREE. Hours vary by day.
October 10
Droids and Druids Book Club :: Richardson Public Library
Teens read a book corresponding to monthly themes for discussions on second Thursdays at this FREE event from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Make It, Take It :: Farmers Branch Manske Library
Kids create and decorate a mini box monster and painted salt spiderweb. This FREE event meets at The Hub from 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Time Travelers :: Lakewood Branch Library
FREE monthly adventures across time and space will thrill kids of all ages from 3:30 – 4:30 p.m.
October 11
Sounds on the Square :: Downtown Carrollton
Hear local bands, purchase food, and shop downtown on select Friday nights from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. through December 13. This is a FREE, family-friendly event.
Story Time in the Park :: Klyde Warren Park
Dallas Public Library visits Muse Family Performance Pavilion for FREE stories, songs, and learning from 10:00 – 10:30 a.m. Kids 18 months – three years are invited.
October 11 – 12
DanceAfrica Festival & Marketplace :: Klyde Warren Park
Music and dance fill the air at this two-day, cross-cultural event featuring student performances from Booker T. Washington high school and other special guests. Admission is FREE.
Mesquite Meander :: Mesquite City Cemetery
Guided tours with actor portrayals present a living history of Mesquite to visitors. Forty-five-minute tours begin at 5:30 and recur every 10 minutes. Order tickets in advance for $15.
October 11 – 25
Texas Pollinator BioBlitz :: Online Event
All ages and abilities are invited to share pollinator photos, follow the Facebook page for updates and events, and make self-guided contributions to the scientific community.
October 11 – 27
The Little Shop of Horrors :: Repertory Company Theatre
Be transported to the comic sci-fi world of Seymour and his blood-loving plant. Showtimes are Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2:00 p.m. Youth tickets are $20. Adults pay $36.
October 12
Open House :: Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area
Spend a day at the nature preserve learning about local plants and animals. Enjoy activities, nature walks, and more from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Admission is FREE for all ages.
Rubber Duck Regatta and Jeep Festival :: Rockwall Harbor
Adopt a duck for $10 to raise funds for Grace Clinic and The Boys & Girls Clubs or Northeast Texas. Enjoy live music, a kids zone, food trucks, and more from 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Second Saturday Guided Hike :: Trinity River Audubon Center
Learn about local habitats and history during this guided hike for the whole family from 8:30 – 10:00 a.m. Admission is $10 per person.
October 13
Native Plant Walk :: Dogwood Canyon Audubon Center
Go on a guided walk through the Canyon Floor trail, and learn about native plants and birds at 11:30 a.m. Reserve your spot in advance online. All ages welcome.
Open Studio for Teens :: Irving Arts Center
Teens create art, practice technique, and make new friends at this FREE come-and-go art space every second Sunday from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Paws to Read :: Carrollton Public Library @ Hebron & Josey
Elementary kids ages five – 12 read books to a therapy dog from 1:30 – 3:00 p.m. Arrive 15 minutes early for FREE tickets.
Science Sunday :: Trinity River Audubon Center
Kids foster a deeper connection with nature through immersive, educational activities from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. Tickets are $5 per child.
Second Sunday Funday :: Irving Arts Center
Drop in from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. for an afternoon of FREE themed art activities, exhibits, and more for everyone in the family.
October 14
Comics & Manga Club :: Farmers Branch Manske Library
Teens learn about comics and manga through group discussion, presentations and interviews, and activities. This is a FREE event from 5:00 – 6:00 p.m.
October 15
High School Book Club :: Talking Animals Books
This month, readers discuss The Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes at this FREE young adult book club in Grapevine from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
October 17
Eco Warriors :: Lakewood Branch Library
Attend this FREE event focused on environmental awareness and community service from 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. Every month has a new theme.
Lego & Friends :: Farmers Branch Manske Library
Children of all ages get creative with Lego, Duplo, Magna-Tiles, and more from 4:00 – 5:00 p.m. Admission is FREE.
October 18
Haunted Gingerbread House Workshop :: Young Chefs Academy Rockwall
Students ages seven and older make a seasonal centerpiece and learn decorating techniques from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Cost is $65 per person.
October 19
Sunny South Dallas Food Park :: 3021 Martin Luther King Junior Boulevard
Celebrate community, food, economic mobility, and Black-owned businesses at this event from 12:00 – 4:00 p.m. Shop for jewelry, clothing, handmade baked goods, and more.
Vinyl Record Show :: Grapevine Convention Center
Find music, hidden treasures, collectibles, and more from about 50 vendors. Win door prizes. Hours are 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. General admission tickets are $8. Parking is FREE.
October 18 – 19
Bloomin’ Bluegrass Festival :: Farmers Branch Historical Park
Visitors listen to live bluegrass on outdoor stages. Friday hours are 4:30 – 10:00 p.m. Saturday hours are 11:30 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. Tickets are $20 per person. Weekend passes cost $30.
October 20
A Choir for All Ages :: Coppell Arts Center
Choirs from across DFW are combined to create a concert with singers ages 8 to 80. Tickets are $15. The show starts at 3:00 p.m.
October 26
Bewitching Bites Halloween Workshop :: Young Chefs Academy Rockwall
Students ages eight and older practice culinary skills while making sweet and savory bites from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. Costumes are encouraged but not required. Cost is $60 per person.
Sounds on the Square :: Downtown Carrollton
Hear local bands, purchase food, and shop downtown on select Friday nights from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. through December 13. This is a FREE, family-friendly event.
October 27
Fourth Sunday Nature Walk :: Spring Creek Forest – Garland
Spend a morning in nature on a guided walk, and learn which native plants would be suitable for planting in your yard from 2:00 – 3:30 p.m. Admission is FREE.
October 29
D&D for Teens :: Farmers Branch Manske Library
Teens ages 10 – 17 learn the basics of Dungeons and Dragons, and play mini sessions from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. This is a FREE event.
October 31
Books for Treats :: Carrollton Public Library @ Hebron & Josey
Little ones of all ages wear a Halloween costume and get a book treat to take home. The drop-in event is FREE from 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
- All Month
-
Classic Cartoons and Crafts :: Lancaster Theatre
TuesdaysLittle ones make themed crafts, eat popcorn, and enjoy drinks as they watch a cartoon movie at 10:00 a.m. Tickets are $6 per child and $3 per adult.
Cool Thursdays Concert Series :: Dallas Arboretum
ThursdaysPack a picnic and enjoy live concerts against the backdrop of White Rock Lake at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $15 for kids, $39 for seniors, and $41 for adults. Become a member and get a discount.
Irving Music on Main :: Heritage Park
FridaysEnjoy FREE family concerts and activities every Friday in October beginning at 7:00 p.m. Bring lawn chairs and blankets. Dine at a nearby restaurant, or bring your own snacks.
Shakespeare in the Park :: Samuell-Grand Amphitheater
All Month – Select DatesPerformances run weekends, Thursday – Sunday, October 3 – 13. General admission starts at $20 per person. See website for show times and parking information.
State Fair of Texas :: Fair Park
DailyExperience the North Texas tradition with Big Tex, rides, and corny dogs. Single tickets and season passes can be purchased online or at the gate. Gates open daily at 10:00 a.m. through October 20.
WalkSTEM :: Klyde Warren Park
DailyExplore STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) connections through app-guided walking tours of Klyde Warren Park in Dallas. The FREE event is for kids ages eight and up.
- October 1 – 5
-
October 1
Sensory Friendly Hours at Squishable :: Galleria DallasSquishable fans with special sensory needs can browse with reduced lighting and sound from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. through October 1. This is a FREE event.
October 3
JumpstART Stories & Art :: Irving Arts CenterAll supplies are provided as kids ages two and up hear themed stories, make art projects, and browse the galleries beginning at 10:00 a.m. Admission is FREE.
October 1 – 12
Latinidades International Theatre Festival :: Latino Cultural CenterCelebrate Latin American culture, dance, food, and theater with performances, demonstrations, and activities for all ages. Purchase tickets to individual festival events online.
October 4
First Fridays at the Farm :: Nash FarmEnjoy games hosted by farmhands from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. in Grapevine. Tickets are $5 for kids ages three and up.
Music Made Here at the Pavilion :: Downtown Garland Square
First Fridays outdoor concerts are featured beginning at 7:00 p.m. Concert goers of all ages will experience local musicians, dining, and an activity area. Admission is FREE.
October 4 – 6
Stars of Texas Music Festival :: Texas MotorplexCelebrate Texas culture at this music festival with family events, activities, cuisine, and more over three days in Ennis. Tickets start at $49 at the door.
October 4 – 13
Stampede of Speed :: Texas MotorplexThis festival offers music, drag racing, and family activities over 10 ten days. A variety of pricing packages are offered. Camping and RV sites are available.
October 5
Bear Creek Short Line Excursion :: Cotton Belt DepotVisitors of all ages step back in time as they ride the Grapevine Vintage Railroad down historic Main Street. All aboard at 10:30 a.m. Tickets range from $10 – $12 per person.
Oak Cliff Nature Preserve Workday :: Oak Cliff Nature Preserve
Register at 8:45 a.m. to help restore this 121-acre neighborhood treasure from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Kids over 12 are welcomed to help out. Wear closed-toe shoes and bring water.
Saturday Make and Take Crafts :: Coppell Arts Center
FREE make-and-take crafts are available to kids ages three – 12 during this come-and-go event from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Tri-City Cleanup :: Halff Park at Ranger Drive
Volunteers of all ages and abilities keep Garland waterways litter free around Spring Creek Preserve from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Stay afterwards for treats and entertainment at Hella Shrine events center.
October 5 – October 20
Grace for President :: Dallas Children’s TheaterFor audiences ages six and up, this timely production follows the journey of a third grader who wants to be the first female president in her class. Tickets start at $20.
October 6
Free First Sundays: Access for All :: Dallas Museum of ArtNo reservations required on first Sundays at the Dallas Museum of Art. Experience special exhibits for FREE from 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. through December.
- October 6 – 12
-
October 8
Homeschool Day :: Dallas ZooHomeschoolers learn to make a better world for animals with interactive activities. Hours are 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Admission is $10 for nonmembers and FREE for members.
October 9, 10, 12
Friends of the CPL Book Sale :: Carrollton Public Library @ Hebron & JoseyStock up on books, movies, and music for all ages at this annual book sale. Admission is FREE. Hours vary by day.
October 10
Droids and Druids Book Club :: Richardson Public LibraryTeens read a book corresponding to monthly themes for discussions on second Thursdays at this FREE event from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Make It, Take It :: Farmers Branch Manske Library
Kids create and decorate a mini box monster and painted salt spiderweb. This FREE event meets at The Hub from 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Time Travelers :: Lakewood Branch Library
FREE monthly adventures across time and space will thrill kids of all ages from 3:30 – 4:30 p.m.
October 11
Sounds on the Square :: Downtown CarrolltonHear local bands, purchase food, and shop downtown on select Friday nights from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. through December 13. This is a FREE, family-friendly event.
Story Time in the Park :: Klyde Warren Park
Dallas Public Library visits Muse Family Performance Pavilion for FREE stories, songs, and learning from 10:00 – 10:30 a.m. Kids 18 months – three years are invited.
October 11 – 12
DanceAfrica Festival & Marketplace :: Klyde Warren ParkMusic and dance fill the air at this two-day, cross-cultural event featuring student performances from Booker T. Washington high school and other special guests. Admission is FREE.
Mesquite Meander :: Mesquite City Cemetery
Guided tours with actor portrayals present a living history of Mesquite to visitors. Forty-five-minute tours begin at 5:30 and recur every 10 minutes. Order tickets in advance for $15.
October 11 – 25
Texas Pollinator BioBlitz :: Online EventAll ages and abilities are invited to share pollinator photos, follow the Facebook page for updates and events, and make self-guided contributions to the scientific community.
October 11 – 27
The Little Shop of Horrors :: Repertory Company TheatreBe transported to the comic sci-fi world of Seymour and his blood-loving plant. Showtimes are Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2:00 p.m. Youth tickets are $20. Adults pay $36.
October 12
Open House :: Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning AreaSpend a day at the nature preserve learning about local plants and animals. Enjoy activities, nature walks, and more from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Admission is FREE for all ages.
Rubber Duck Regatta and Jeep Festival :: Rockwall Harbor
Adopt a duck for $10 to raise funds for Grace Clinic and The Boys & Girls Clubs or Northeast Texas. Enjoy live music, a kids zone, food trucks, and more from 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Second Saturday Guided Hike :: Trinity River Audubon Center
Learn about local habitats and history during this guided hike for the whole family from 8:30 – 10:00 a.m. Admission is $10 per person.
- October 13 – 19
-
October 13
Native Plant Walk :: Dogwood Canyon Audubon CenterGo on a guided walk through the Canyon Floor trail, and learn about native plants and birds at 11:30 a.m. Reserve your spot in advance online. All ages welcome.
Open Studio for Teens :: Irving Arts Center
Teens create art, practice technique, and make new friends at this FREE come-and-go art space every second Sunday from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Paws to Read :: Carrollton Public Library @ Hebron & Josey
Elementary kids ages five – 12 read books to a therapy dog from 1:30 – 3:00 p.m. Arrive 15 minutes early for FREE tickets.
Science Sunday :: Trinity River Audubon Center
Kids foster a deeper connection with nature through immersive, educational activities from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. Tickets are $5 per child.
Second Sunday Funday :: Irving Arts Center
Drop in from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. for an afternoon of FREE themed art activities, exhibits, and more for everyone in the family.
October 14
Comics & Manga Club :: Farmers Branch Manske LibraryTeens learn about comics and manga through group discussion, presentations and interviews, and activities. This is a FREE event from 5:00 – 6:00 p.m.
October 15
High School Book Club :: Talking Animals BooksThis month, readers discuss The Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes at this FREE young adult book club in Grapevine from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
October 17
Eco Warriors :: Lakewood Branch LibraryAttend this FREE event focused on environmental awareness and community service from 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. Every month has a new theme.
Lego & Friends :: Farmers Branch Manske Library
Children of all ages get creative with Lego, Duplo, Magna-Tiles, and more from 4:00 – 5:00 p.m. Admission is FREE.
October 18
Haunted Gingerbread House Workshop :: Young Chefs Academy RockwallStudents ages seven and older make a seasonal centerpiece and learn decorating techniques from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Cost is $65 per person.
October 19
Sunny South Dallas Food Park :: 3021 Martin Luther King Junior BoulevardCelebrate community, food, economic mobility, and Black-owned businesses at this event from 12:00 – 4:00 p.m. Shop for jewelry, clothing, handmade baked goods, and more.
Vinyl Record Show :: Grapevine Convention Center
Find music, hidden treasures, collectibles, and more from about 50 vendors. Win door prizes. Hours are 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. General admission tickets are $8. Parking is FREE.
October 18 – 19
Bloomin’ Bluegrass Festival :: Farmers Branch Historical ParkVisitors listen to live bluegrass on outdoor stages. Friday hours are 4:30 – 10:00 p.m. Saturday hours are 11:30 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. Tickets are $20 per person. Weekend passes cost $30.
- October 20 – 26
-
October 20
A Choir for All Ages :: Coppell Arts CenterChoirs from across DFW are combined to create a concert with singers ages 8 to 80. Tickets are $15. The show starts at 3:00 p.m.
October 26
Bewitching Bites Halloween Workshop :: Young Chefs Academy RockwallStudents ages eight and older practice culinary skills while making sweet and savory bites from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. Costumes are encouraged but not required. Cost is $60 per person.
Sounds on the Square :: Downtown Carrollton
Hear local bands, purchase food, and shop downtown on select Friday nights from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. through December 13. This is a FREE, family-friendly event.
- October 27 – 31
-
October 27
Fourth Sunday Nature Walk :: Spring Creek Forest – GarlandSpend a morning in nature on a guided walk, and learn which native plants would be suitable for planting in your yard from 2:00 – 3:30 p.m. Admission is FREE.
October 29
D&D for Teens :: Farmers Branch Manske LibraryTeens ages 10 – 17 learn the basics of Dungeons and Dragons, and play mini sessions from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. This is a FREE event.
October 31
Books for Treats :: Carrollton Public Library @ Hebron & JoseyLittle ones of all ages wear a Halloween costume and get a book treat to take home. The drop-in event is FREE from 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
The Virtual ARTventures and Virtual Explorers sound cool! Thank you for sharing so many fun things to do in October 🙂