September is one of those months when North Texas really comes alive. Summer begins to loosen its grip, evenings start feeling a little more inviting, and some of the area's biggest annual traditions return.
Whether you're ready for festivals and fair food, looking for a unique date night, or just searching for something different to do with the family, we've rounded up some of our favorite ways to enjoy September around DFW.
Beginning Fly Fishing Class
Saturday, September 12 | 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
📍 Lake Lewisville Environmental Learning Center, Lewisville
Always wanted to try fly fishing? This free, hands-on beginner class covers the basics, including casting, fly tying, knots, fish identification, safety, and fishing regulations. Equipment is provided, and the class is open to adults and youth ages 12 and older with an accompanying adult. Preregistration is requested, and space is limited.
Downtown Dallas Arts & Music Festival
September 12 – 13
📍 Main Street Garden Park, Downtown Dallas
Celebrate Dallas' creative community during a weekend filled with local art, live music, murals, live painting, performances, installations, food trucks, makers, small businesses, and more. Festival hours are noon–10 PM Saturday and noon–6 PM Sunday.
25th Annual Guns & Hoses Boxing Tournament
Saturday, September 12 | 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Guns & Hoses returns for its 25th annual boxing tournament, bringing North Texas police officers and firefighters into the ring for an unforgettable night of friendly competition.
Cool Thursdays Concert Series
Thursdays beginning September 17 | Gates open at 6:00 PM
📍 Dallas Arboretum
Cooler evenings, sunset views over White Rock Lake, and live music make this one of our favorite ways to welcome fall. The Dallas Arboretum's fall Cool Thursdays lineup kicks off September 17 with a Billy Joel tribute, followed by ABBA on September 24 and more performances continuing into November. Concerts begin at 7 PM.
Plano Balloon Festival
September 17 – 20
📍 Oak Point Park, Plano
One of Collin County's most recognizable traditions returns for its 47th year. Watch colorful hot air balloons fill the sky while enjoying live entertainment, kids' activities, skydivers, food, vendors, balloon glows, and more. Weather permitting, balloon launches and glows take place throughout the four-day festival, with a fireworks display scheduled Saturday night.
Bow Wow Luau
Sunday, September 20 | 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
📍 Hawaiian Waters Waterpark, The Colony
Summer isn't over for the dogs! Bring your four-legged best friend to Hawaiian Waters for an afternoon of doggie swimming, contests, games, and prizes. Admission is $24.99 per person, dogs are free, and a portion of the proceeds benefits The Colony Animal Shelter Injured Animal Fund.
State Fair of Texas
September 25 – October 18
📍 Fair Park, Dallas
Big Tex is back! The State Fair of Texas returns for 24 days of fair food, midway rides, live entertainment, exhibits, shopping, and all the traditions Texans wait for every year. Gates officially open at 10 AM on Friday, September 25.
McKinney Oktoberfest
September 25 – 27
📍 Historic Downtown McKinney
Break out the lederhosen! Historic Downtown McKinney transforms into a Bavarian celebration with authentic German food and beer, live music and dancing, carnival rides, games, family activities, and plenty of Oktoberfest fun. Admission is free, and the festivities span all three days.
Yoga Under the Harvest Moon
Saturday, September 26 | 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM
📍 Dinosaur Valley State Park
For something completely different, spend an evening connecting with nature during a gentle guided yoga and mindfulness session beneath the full moon. No experience is necessary, and some mats are available to borrow. The program is free with regular park admission.
September gives us the best of both seasons—the last little bit of summer fun and the first signs that fall is on its way. Whether you're watching balloons rise over Plano, cheering from ringside, eating your way through the State Fair, or spending an evening under the harvest moon, there's plenty happening around North Texas this month.
Grab the calendar, pick a few favorites, and enjoy everything September has to offer!
