Dallas is among the most popular cities in the United States. Fittingly, the Big D offers up some of the most popular festivals in Texas. From a bevy of Oktoberfests to holiday parades to the venerable State Fair of Texas, Dallas and the surrounding communities stage lively and fun festivals throughout the year.
1. State Fair of Texas
Danno Wise
Running for 24 days through late-September and early-October, the State Fair of Texas is the largest fair and stock show in the state. During the nearly month long event, everything from live music to carnival rides and good eats to art shows are offered. Of course, the highlight of the Fair is the annual Texas-Oklahoma football game.
2. Sundance Square Parade of Lights
Parade of Lights
Held each year in downtown Fort Worth, the Sundance Square Parade of Lights features over 100 illuminated entries and climaxes with the lighting of the Fort Worth Holiday Tree.
3. Southlake Oktoberfest
Held on the Southlake Town Square, Oktoberfest is a family oriented event with plenty of activities for adults and kids alike, including the crowd pleasing Weiner Dog Race.4. North Texas Irish Festival
Claiming the title of "Largest Celtic Event in the Southwest," the North Texas Irish Festival is a three-day celebration featuring music, folk dancers, storytelling and educational programs.5. Texas Scottish Festival & Highland Games
Held at Maverick Stadium on the campus of UT-Arlington, the Texas Scottish Festival and Highland Games features dancing, athletic competitions, bagpipe band contests, dog show, fiddle and harp competitions, ethnic foods, Celtic art and more.6. Neiman-Marcus/Adolphus Children's Parade
Neiman-Marcus/Adolphus Children's Parade/Louis Curtis, Jr.
A Dallas holiday tradition for over 20 years, the Neiman-Marcus/Adolphus Children’s Parade not only kicks off the holiday season in the Big D, it is a major fundraiser for the Children’s Medical Center in Dallas. You can get reserved seating, general admission tickets, or bring a lawn chair and sleeping bag and huddle up along the parade’s downtown route.
