What to do Friday through Sunday, [Apr.17–19], across Collin County and nearby cities
This weekend, North Texas offers no shortage of ways to fill your calendar, whether you’re the type to map out plans in advance or decide on the fly.
The lineup spans everything from high-energy live performances and festivals to seasonal attractions and one-of-a-kind local events. No matter your interests or how late you start planning, there’s a wide mix of experiences happening across the region to help you make the most of the weekend ahead.
Cosmic Takeover
April 16–18 | Riders Field, Frisco
Baseball gets a neon twist with glow-in-the-dark elements and themed entertainment. Expect a high-energy, family-friendly night at the ballpark.
Texas Flood Concert
April 17 | Hub 121, McKinney
The Texas Flood Concert, a tribute to Stevie Ray Vaughan, returns for a night of live music celebrating the legacy and spirit of Texas blues and rock. Expect high-energy performances, local talent and a crowd of devoted fans coming together for an electric evening.
Gabriel Iglesias
April 17–19 | Addison Improv
Gabriel Iglesias, one of the most successful stand-up comedians in the world, brings his latest set to Addison for a multi-night run. A global touring powerhouse with billions of YouTube views and a massive social following, Iglesias continues to sell out arenas and theaters alike with his high-energy storytelling and signature humor.
Taste! at The Star
April 17 | Ford Center at The Star, Frisco
This premier culinary event brings together top DFW chefs, live music and auctions for a night supporting the North Texas Food Bank. Proceeds benefit programs fighting childhood hunger across the region.
We Them Grays Do Disney
April 17 | Windmills Brewery, The Colony
This family band blends rich harmonies with a mix of Disney favorites, TV theme songs and today’s hits. Expect a high-energy, feel-good performance that turns the night into a celebration.
Spring Market
April 18 | PGA District, Frisco
Celebrate the season at this outdoor pop-up market featuring 40+ vendors. Shop handmade goods, boutique clothing, jewelry, flowers and more while enjoying a relaxed spring day outdoors.
Texas Pie Fest
April 18 | Tate Farms, Rockwall
Now in its eighth year, Texas Pie Fest brings together bakers from across the state for a lively day of competition, community and plenty of crust. Expect sweet and savory pie contests, pie-eating showdowns for kids, adults and even dogs, plus celebrity judges weighing in.
Syndicate Smokedown & Music Festival
April 18 | Fort Worth Stockyards
The 5th annual Syndicate Smokedown & Music Festival heads back to the Fort Worth Stockyards with its biggest lineup yet. Headlined by Whiskey Myers, Randy Rogers Band and Amanda Shires, the event pairs live country and Red Dirt music with more than 20 award-winning Texas BBQ pitmasters.
Festival of Joy
April 18 | Klyde Warren Park, Dallas
This free, family-friendly celebration features a colorful parade, chariot pull, yoga, performances, kids’ activities and more. The day wraps with a vegetarian feast and a live concert headlined by The Mayapuris.
Sesame Street Live! Elmo’s Got the Moves
April 19 | Credit Union of Texas Event Center, Allen
Get ready to sing and dance with Elmo, Cookie Monster, Abby Cadabby and friends in this high-energy, interactive show perfect for kids and families.
ONGOING & EXTENDED-RUN THINGS TO DO
Photo: Scarborough Renaissance Festival
Scarborough Renaissance Festival
April 4–May 25 | 2511 FM 66, Waxahachie
Step into a 25-acre English village as the Scarborough Renaissance Festival returns for its 45th season. Held Saturdays, Sundays and Memorial Day Monday, the beloved event brings fantasy and folklore to life with immersive entertainment, artisan vendors and family-friendly experiences that have welcomed generations of Texas visitors.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons Aquarium Tour
Feb. 21–May 25 | SEA LIFE Grapevine Aquarium, Grapevine
Step into the world of Animal Crossing: New Horizons during this limited-time interactive aquarium experience. Guests can enjoy character meet-and-greets, themed photo ops, a stamp rally, special merchandise and immersive exhibits featuring familiar characters throughout the aquarium.
Dragon Trails
Mar. 15– June 27 | Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, McKinney
Step back in time and let your imagination roam as you explore one of McKinney’s scenic nature trails with an added surprise. The seasonal outdoor exhibit has animatronic dragons lining the trails, connecting myth and science through hands-on family fun.
Soccer: More Than a Game
Mar. 7–Sept. 7 | Perot Museum of Nature and Science, Dallas
As North Texas prepares for the global spotlight of the FIFA World Cup, the Perot is kicking off the excitement with Soccer: More Than a Game. The 10,000-square-foot interactive exhibition explores the science behind the world’s most popular sport, from the physics of a perfectly curved free kick to the strategy behind championship teams. Through hands-on experiences and STEM-focused displays, visitors of all ages can discover the science, skill and spirit that power the game.
Ancient Echoes, Modern Voices: The Crow Collection Goes Beyond
Through Jun. 28 | Crow Museum of Asian Art at UT Dallas, Richardson
This long-running exhibition expands beyond traditional display with rotating presentations that connect Asian art histories to contemporary themes.
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