North Texas is gearing up for a weekend packed with thrills, flavors and just the right amount of weird. Between global celebrations, haunted trails and tea served with Texas swagger, there’s no shortage of reasons to get out and explore. From Plano’s ghostly alleys to Frisco’s fall markets and Dallas’ taco pop-up that’s literally Michelin-starred, the lineup promises something for every mood — spooky, sporty or simply snacky. 

So grab a jacket, charge your phone and make room on your calendar — it’s shaping up to be one of those weekends where staying in just isn’t an option.

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Photo: Dungeons & Dragons : The immersive Quest

When: Opening date: Oct. 15, 2025 | Wednesday–Friday, 3 – 9 p.m.; Saturday–Sunday, 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.

Where: 2712 N. Central Expy, Plano

More info and tickets

Adventurers, sharpen your swords and ready your dice — a new realm is calling. Dungeons & Dragons: The Immersive Quest transforms Plano into a living, breathing fantasy world where guests choose a class, solve puzzles and face mythical creatures before confronting a dragon. The 16,000-square-foot interactive experience blends live action, storytelling and spectacle, inviting both newcomers and veteran players to step inside the legendary game. Costumes are optional, courage is not.

When: Oct. 17, 2025 | 6 – 10 p.m.

Where: Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, 1 Nature Place, McKinney

More info and tickets

Halloween gets a grown-up twist at this after-hours bash featuring a screening of Shaun of the Dead, a haunted forest, fortune telling and a costume contest that supports animal care at the sanctuary. Guests can sip on wine or craft beer, stroll a mini trick-or-treat trail and enjoy spooky fun under the stars — no kids allowed, just creatures of the night.

When: Oct. 16 & 19, 2025 | Times vary

Where: Mic Drop Comedy Plano, 7301 Lone Star Dr, Suite A-110, Plano

More info and tickets

Plano’s past comes to life — and maybe back from the dead — on this 75-minute ghost walk led by comedians who turn haunted history into a laugh-out-loud adventure. Guests explore eerie landmarks, test real EMF readers and uncover tales of playful spirits and restless graves. Equal parts spooky and silly, it’s a night where goosebumps and giggles go hand in hand.

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Photo: Plano International Festival

When: Oct. 18, 2025 | 11 a.m – 5 p.m.

Where: Haggard Park, 901 E 15th Street, Plano

More info and tickets

A celebration of global culture unfolds in Plano as music, dance, art and international flavors fill the air for the city’s largest multicultural festival. Families can enjoy live performances, cultural exhibits and hands-on STEAM activities, while the Wellness Fair adds a healthy twist with free screenings and fitness demos. It’s a day to explore the world without ever leaving Haggard Park.

When: Oct. 18, 2025 | 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Where: PGA District, 3255 PGA Parkway, Frisco

More info

Shoppers and stroll-seekers can soak up the season at this outdoor market filled with more than 40 local vendors offering handmade goods, cozy candles and fall finds galore. Between sips, scents and shopping bags, little ones can join the fun with a pumpkin decorating activity that trades carving for creativity. It’s autumn retail therapy with a side of family-friendly charm.

When: Oct. 19, 2025 | 4 – 7 p.m.

Where: Lone Star Winery, 103 E. Virginia, Suite 100, McKinney

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Flash back to the decade of mixtapes and mullets as The ‘80s King takes the stage with crowd-favorite hits and high-energy nostalgia. Pair the tunes with good food, great wine and maybe a few dance moves you thought you’d retired.

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. Photo: Brian Ashcraft | Local Profile

When: Oct. 18, 2025 | 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Where: Omni PGA Frisco Resort & Spa, 4341 PGA Parkway, Frisco

More info and tickets

What happens when a Texas steakhouse trades ribeyes for teapots? Guests find out at this refined yet playful afternoon tea, where premium Zakti blends meet Texas honey cake, lavender scones and savory bites. With live guitar music and optional champagne, it’s a leisurely escape that proves tea time pairs just fine with a little Lone Star flair.

When: Oct. 16-28, 2025 | Noon – 9 p.m.

Where: 6501 Hillcrest Ave #130, Dallas

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Mexico City’s famed El Califa de León is setting up shop in Dallas for a two-week pop-up that’s bound to have taco lovers talking. Known as the world’s only Michelin-starred taquería, the eatery will serve its iconic “Taco Gaonera,” a simple yet masterful creation of tender beef, handmade tortillas and just the right touch of lime. Sometimes, perfection really is just meat, masa and a little bit of magic.

When: Oct. 18, 2025 | 4 – 7 p.m.

Where: Cotton Bowl Stadium, 3750 The Midway, Dallas

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Soccer meets fried food heaven as Dallas Trinity FC takes on Mexico’s powerhouse Club América Femenil in the inaugural State Fair Clásico. Set against the backdrop of Ferris wheels and corny dogs, this Cotton Bowl showdown blends Texas fair fun with world-class fútbol. One ticket gets fans into both the match and the fairgrounds, making it the ultimate way to spend a Saturday under Big Tex’s watchful gaze.

Dark Hour Haunted House
Photo: Dark Hour Haunted House | Website

When: Until Oct. 31, 2025

Where: Dark Hour Haunted House, 701 Taylor Dr, Plano

More info and tickets

Nightmares get an upgrade at this haunted house packed with live actors, eerie creatures and special effects sharp enough to rattle even the bravest visitors. Guests wind their way through cursed halls, folklore-inspired monsters and enough jump scares to keep hearts racing. For those who like a little mischief with their mayhem, VIP perks even let you join in on the scares.

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