If you live in Dallas-Fort Worth — or even if you’ve visited — you’re probably familiar with the area’s cultural vibrancy. There are so many cuisines to try, museums to peruse, and music to listen to that it can be hard to choose what to do. Thankfully, there are dozens of festivals in DFW year-round that will quench your thirst for fun. Here are 12 festivals that are worth checking out in DFW in 2024.
Southlake Spring Festival (2/10)
Kicking off our list is the third annual Southlake Spring Festival. Falling on the same day as the Chinese New Year, you can expect to find food stalls, live entertainment, and other activities that represent a range of cultures from China to Vietnam and beyond. Best of all, the event is free to attend; you’ll just have to pay for any food or drinks you might want.
Fort Worth Music Festival (2/28-3/2)
Aside from its rodeos and other cowboy-adjacent activities, Fort Worth is known for its music scene. From late February through early March, you can enjoy live music at the second annual Fort Worth Music Festival. Taking place at the famous Fort Worth Stockyards, the lineup includes artists like Abraham Alexander, The Band of Heathens, and Jack Ingram, and we’re willing to bet you’ll discover a new favorite singer or two. Just be sure to buy your tickets in advance so you don’t miss out.
Texas Pinball Festival (3/15-3/17)
Image via Texas Pinball Festival Facebook
Crocs and vinyl records have made a comeback, so why can’t classic arcade games? Whether you’re a longtime player or you’re just curious, you can stop by the Texas Pinball Festival from March 15-17. There will be pinball machines and other classic video games along with collectors showing off their memorabilia. Tickets for adults start as low as $30 (depending on when you want to attend), and you can even sign up to participate in a pinball tournament if you’re feeling brave.
Dallas Soul Food Festival (3/24)
We’d be remiss if we didn’t include at least one festival centering classic southern cooking. Dallas Soul Food Festival will be held on Sunday, March 24 this year, and you’ll be able to find dishes like candied yams, BBQ, and turkey legs. There will even be vegan options for plant-based foodies. Admission is free if you RSVP early, so feel free to pause your reading now and come back after you grab a ticket.
Deep Ellum Community Arts Fair (4/5-4/7)
It’s almost impossible to think of Deep Ellum without thinking about art. And art fans are in luck, because the Deep Ellum Community Arts Fair will be back from April 5-7 for its second year. Bask in the energy of this vibrant arts district as you browse local artists’ work and listen to live performances from local musicians. Plus, there’s an abundance of food to enjoy in Deep Ellum, so you can really immerse yourself in the neighborhood and see all that it has to offer.
Wildflower! Arts & Music Festival (5/17-5/19)
Richardson is bringing even more music to the DFW area from May 17-19 at the Wildflower! Arts & Music Festival. While the lineup hasn’t been released yet, past performers have included luminaries like Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, Neon Trees, and Good Charlotte. There are also plenty of activities and other events to enjoy throughout the festival, including a songwriting contest and a battle of the bands competition. Pre-sale tickets start at $40 for the weekend, or you can get a VIP pass with extra perks for $400.
Image via WAMFest Instagram
The Dallas Pride Music Festival at Fair Park (6/1-2)
June in DFW means two things: sweltering heat and Pride celebrations. On the first weekend of the month, Dallas is hosting its Pride Music Festival and iconic Freedom Parade. The family-friendly celebration will be a fun and safe space to honor the LGBTQ+ community and its allies, and as an extra bonus, you can expect to see tons of amazing outfits. The Music Festival on June 1 will also feature art, exhibits, and food vendors, while the parade on June 2 will shine a spotlight on local LGBTQ+ folks and their supporters.
Bastille on Bishop (7/14)
What is Bastille Day, you ask? It marks the start of the French Revolution that took place on July 14, 1789. And every year, Bastille on Bishop takes place in Oak Cliff, giving locals (and visitors!) a chance to celebrate French-style. That means eating your weight in crêpes, enjoying French music as you stroll through the neighborhood, and maybe even running into a mime or two. Like many festivals on this list, it’s free to enter; you just have to pay for any food or drinks you get. And don’t worry, there will be plenty of wine.
Avance Latino Street Fest (8/10)
Another huge part of DFW life is the abundance of Latino culture, and the Avance Latino Street Fest is the perfect place to enjoy Latin food, music, and art. Admission is free, and any purchases made will go directly to nonprofit AVANCE-North Texas, which supports local at-risk Latino families. So while you walk around listening to mariachi music and eating some of the best food you’ve ever had, you’ll know you’re making a positive difference at the same time. Win-win!
Lewisville Western Days (9/27-9/28)
We can’t talk about DFW without honoring the metroplex’s cowboy culture. Though there aren’t quite as many livestock roaming around today, there are still many traces of that classic western lifestyle, as evident in the many museums and southern-themed businesses. From September 27-28, you can head on over to Lewisville Western Days and really immerse yourself in the lifestyle. There will be live country music, activities just for kids, and even a tamale eating contest among tons of other food vendors. (Cowboy hats are not necessary for entry.)
Festival at the Switchyard (11/2)
If you find yourself itching for more fun by the end of 2024, you’re in luck. Historic Downtown Carrollton’s Festival at the Switchyard will be back for its 14th year, meaning there will be free games, live entertainment, and even some rides. While the official vendor lineup hasn’t been announced as of publication, in the past there have been food trucks serving lobster rolls, catering company booths, and tons of sweet treats to enjoy. Plus, you’ll have a chance to learn a little more about the city and how local public transportation played a role in putting it on the map.
Holiday Main Street Fest and Parade (12/7)
Rounding out the year of festivals is Rowlett’s Holiday Main Street Fest & Parade on Saturday, December 7. Starting in the early evening, you can enjoy holiday-themed craft booths and food while you wait for the main event: the Parade of Lights. Floats and various groups decked out in holiday garb will march down Main Street to spread holiday cheer. This wholesome family-friendly festival is the perfect, can’t miss way to celebrate the upcoming holiday season with loved ones.
