It’s Fall, Y’all: From Pumpkin Patches to Festivals, Here’s What to Do in DFW

As temperatures cool and pumpkin-spiced everything starts popping up, there’s no better time to explore the DFW metroplex than during the fall season. From spooky haunted houses to cozy outdoor festivals, this vibrant area offers a wide array of seasonal events. Whether you're a local looking for new weekend plans or an out-of-town traveler ready to dive into all things fall, I've got you covered. Let's dive into some of the best fall events happening around Dallas-Fort Worth this year.

1. Six Flags Over Texas - Fright Fest (Oct 4 - Oct 31)

You know Halloween season is in full swing when Six Flags Over Texas transforms into a terrifying wonderland for Fright Fest. Running from October 4th to the 31st, this event is perfect for thrill-seekers who want to combine roller coasters with haunted attractions. You’ll find multiple scare zones, haunted houses, and a lineup of creepy characters roaming the park after dark. For the younger crowd (or the faint of heart), daytime activities include trick-or-treating and family-friendly shows.

Pro Tip: If you're visiting on a Friday or Saturday night, aim to arrive early to hit the most popular haunted houses before the lines get too long.

2. State Fair of Texas (Sept 27 - Oct 20)

It wouldn’t be fall in DFW without the iconic State Fair of Texas. Held at Fair Park in Dallas, this beloved event is not only a celebration of Texas culture but also a foodie's dream come true. You’ll find fried everything (fried Oreos, fried butter, you name it) and, of course, the legendary Fletcher’s Corny Dogs. Beyond the food, there are live concerts, exhibitions, carnival rides, and Big Tex himself greeting you at the entrance. It’s a quintessential fall event for Texans.

Pro Tip: Save money by visiting on Thrifty Thursdays, where food items and rides are discounted.

3. Dark Hour Haunted House (Oct 6 - Nov 4)

Plano’s Dark Hour Haunted House is a must for horror fans. It’s one of the most elaborate and spine-chilling haunted attractions in the area, offering a mix of detailed sets, talented actors, and Hollywood-quality special effects. This year’s theme is “Witch’s Sabbath,” promising a terrifying journey through a coven of witches determined to cast their final spell. If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to walk through a horror movie, this is your chance.

Pro Tip: Plan to visit on a Friday after 8 pm to avoid the earlier crowd and maximize your spooky experience.

4. Candlelight Concerts: Halloween Specials (Oct 24, 25, 30, 31)

Looking for something a bit more relaxed and intimate? The Candlelight Concert series brings the beauty of classical music to various venues across DFW, but with a Halloween twist. The October shows feature spine-tingling soundtracks from famous horror movies. You can attend these candlelit performances at different locations, but the atmosphere is always enchanting. This is a perfect date night or a solo treat to take in the season with elegance.

Pro Tip: Choose the 6:30 pm slot if you want a more relaxed start to your evening, or opt for the 8:45 pm show to close out your night with the haunting melodies.

5. Grapevine’s Fall Festivals (Sept - Nov)

Grapevine, the “Christmas Capital of Texas,” knows how to do fall just as well. All season long, the town is packed with events celebrating the changing leaves, cooler weather, and seasonal flavors. Grapevine’s Fall Festivals feature everything from pumpkin patches and art shows to wine tastings at the local vineyards. Don’t miss the Pumpkin Patch Express at the Grapevine Vintage Railroad, where you can take a scenic train ride through the fall foliage and pick the perfect pumpkin at the end of your journey.

Pro Tip: Head over to the Grapevine Mystery Picnic on a Saturday or Sunday morning for a fun, self-guided adventure filled with puzzles and local treats.

6. Fort Worth Stockyards Halloween Bash (Oct 28)

For a mix of country flair and Halloween fun, the Fort Worth Stockyards Halloween Bash is your go-to. Dress up in your favorite costume and enjoy live music, food, drinks, and a lineup of Halloween-themed activities. Whether you’re into ghost stories, trick-or-treating, or line dancing, this event brings a little bit of everything to the table. The Stockyards have a unique charm, combining Texas history with modern entertainment, making it an exciting place to celebrate the season.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to explore the Stockyards during the day to take in the Old West atmosphere before the Halloween festivities kick off at night.

7. Addison After Dark: Harvest Hootenanny (Oct 21)

Addison’s seasonal outdoor event series Addison After Dark gets a fall makeover with the Harvest Hootenanny. It’s the perfect way to spend a relaxing evening enjoying local food, drinks, and live entertainment. There’s pumpkin painting for kids, an outdoor movie screening, and plenty of fall-themed photo ops. This event has a cozy, community feel, making it great for families, couples, or anyone looking to unwind and soak up the fall vibes.

Pro Tip: Bring a blanket or lawn chairs and settle in early for the best spot near the stage or screen.

8. Trick or Drink Bar Crawl (Oct 25, 26, 31)

If you’re looking to spice up your Halloween celebrations with some nightlife, then the Trick or Drink Halloween Bar Crawl is for you. On October 25th, 26th, and 31st, this crawl takes you through some of the best bars in Dallas with themed drinks, costumes, and plenty of party vibes. With multiple locations to choose from, you can bar hop your way through the city, showing off your costume and enjoying Halloween to the fullest. It’s a high-energy way to end the spooky season.

Pro Tip: Join the bar crawl with friends to get group discounts on tickets, and remember to pace yourself!

Final Thoughts on Fall in DFW

Whether you’re all about the thrills and chills of haunted houses, or prefer a laid-back evening of live music and autumnal treats, fall in DFW has something for everyone. With so many unique events spread across the metroplex, it’s easy to fill your calendar with seasonal fun. Be sure to check out one (or all!) of these experiences to make the most of your autumn in Dallas-Fort Worth.

Until next time, happy fall adventures from BreeLeaves!