What to do Friday through Sunday, [August 21–23], 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.
Frisco RoughRiders vs. Wichita Wind Surge
Aug. 18–23 | Riders Field, Frisco
The Frisco RoughRiders return to Riders Field for a six-game series against the Wichita Wind Surge. Fans can take advantage of a Back to School BOGO ticket offer, with additional promotions throughout the week, including Wine Wednesday, Fourth Wing Night and Mingle at the River.
Hoppy Marketplace
Aug. 21 | Rollertown Beerworks, Frisco
Browse handmade goods, unique gifts and other finds from a rotating lineup of local makers, artists and small businesses while enjoying Rollertown brews and a laid-back brewery atmosphere.
The Spazmatics
Aug. 21 | Rollertown Beerworks, Frisco
Break out the neon and get ready for an ’80s throwback party with The Spazmatics. The band brings high-energy performances of new wave, pop, rock and dance-floor favorites to The Backyard, complete with their signature nerd-chic style and plenty of nostalgic fun.
Summer Movie Night in The District
Aug. 21 | PGA District, Frisco
Bring a blanket and settle in for an outdoor screening of Incredibles 2 at the PGA District. The movie begins at 8 p.m., with nearby restaurants open for dinner and roaming beverage carts serving concessions throughout the evening.
Sounds of Summer: Mr. Worldwide
Aug. 21 | Grandscape, The Colony
Turn up the energy with Mr. Worldwide, a Pitbull tribute, performing live on the Corona Stage & Lawn. The free, family-friendly concert runs from 8–10 p.m. and brings high-energy hits to Grandscape for a summer night outdoors.
Art in the Arena Frisco
Aug. 21–23 | Comerica Center, Frisco
Browse original work from up to 65 regional artists at the third annual Art in the Arena Frisco. Presented by the Visual Arts Guild of Frisco, the three-day indoor festival features artist booths, a juried gallery, live music and food.
Comedic Hypnotist Flip Orley
Aug. 21–22 | Mic Drop Comedy, Plano
Comedian and hypnotist Flip Orley brings his unpredictable stage show to Plano, blending stand-up comedy with audience hypnosis. Volunteers become the stars of each performance as Orley turns their imaginations loose in a show filled with surprises, crowd interaction and plenty of laughs.
98th Annual North Texas Fair & Rodeo
Aug. 21–30 | North Texas Fairgrounds, Denton
Celebrate one of North Texas’ longest-running traditions with rodeo action, live country music, carnival rides and livestock shows. The annual fair offers something for every member of the family.
Santana and The Doobie Brothers
Aug. 22 | American Airlines Center, Dallas
Two legendary rock acts share the stage in Dallas for the Oneness Tour. Santana is touring behind his 2025 album Sentient, while The Doobie Brothers are supporting their 2025 release Walk This Road.
Dueling Piano Show
Aug. 22 | TUPPS Brewery, McKinney
Spend the evening with live music, comedy and plenty of audience participation at TUPPS Brewery’s Dueling Piano Show. Grab a table when doors open at 6:30 p.m., enjoy food and drinks, then settle in as talented pianists take requests and go head-to-head with crowd favorites.
ONGOING & EXTENDED-RUN THINGS TO DO
Photo: Matilda Preisendorf | Local Profile
Texas Sculpts V
July 11–Aug. 29 | ArtCentre of Plano
Explore the diverse world of Texas sculpture during Texas Sculpts V, a signature exhibition showcasing the creativity, craftsmanship and range of artists working across the state. The fifth annual showcase highlights contemporary sculptural works in a variety of styles and mediums.
America 250: Texas Trailblazing Wonder Women Exhibition
June 15–Aug. 30 | Millhouse, McKinney
This juried exhibition debuts the Atrium Gallery and features 25 large-scale works by Texas artists honoring influential Texas women who shaped history. The walk-through installation highlights bold, contemporary interpretations in a new cultural space within the McKinney Cotton Mill Arts District.
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.
Road Trip Across America
July 1–Sept. 18 | Frisco Discovery Center, Frisco
Take a photographic journey through America’s landscapes, landmarks and travel traditions during Road Trip Across America. The exhibit celebrates 250 years of exploration with images highlighting national parks, scenic destinations and the people who experience them, along with a historic 1915 Ford Model T Roadster.
Stories from the Archives
June 16–Sept. 30 | Frisco Heritage Museum, Frisco
Discover how ordinary objects can become extraordinary through the power of storytelling in Stories from the Archives. Inspired by the Significant Objects Project, the exhibit pairs items from the Frisco Heritage Center archives with imaginative narratives created by local writers, transforming forgotten pieces into stories of mystery, adventure and meaning.
Hunt Slonem: Bunnies, Birds & Butterflies
April 20–Sept. 30 | Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, Dallas
Internationally recognized neo-expressionist artist Hunt Slonem brings large-scale sculptures and colorful installations to the Dallas Arboretum for an immersive outdoor exhibition. Set throughout the gardens, Bunnies, Birds & Butterflies transforms familiar pathways with monumental works inspired by nature, movement and color.
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