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September in Dallas: Your Ultimate Guide to Food, Festivities, and the State Fair

As summer fades and temperatures cool, September in Dallas bursts with vibrant cuisine, art, and community celebrations—culminating in the iconic State Fair of Texas. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a quick dip in the pool, this month delivers delicious food, engaging entertainment, and nostalgic fair‑ground memories.

Here are the must‑do events and experiences for September in Dallas.

Things to Sip and Savor this September

  1. Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15 – Oct. 15) with authentic Mexican flavors at Xaman Café on Jefferson Boulevard in Oak Cliff. Sample a horchata latte, chilaquiles, or a café con mezcal—plus daily brunch for the whole family.
  2. From Sept. 24 – Oct. 17, indulge in the State Fair’s signature treats—funnel cakes, Fletcher’s Corny Dogs, turkey legs, and more—right at Fair Park.
  3. Enjoy the final season of the Margarita Mile before it concludes on Sept. 30. Sample any of its 17 stops, then look forward to a refreshed app and new destinations in Season 2, launching on Feb. 22 ( National Margarita Day).

Football, Festivities and Fair Fun

  1. Fall’s marquee game: the Dallas Cowboys vs. the Philadelphia Eagles on Monday, Sept. 27 at AT&T Stadium.* Use our guide, Where to Watch the Dallas Cowboys This Fall, to locate the best viewing spots. SMU students, alumni, or fans can enjoy top‑rated nearby bars—six prime game‑day hot spots close to SMU.
  2. Starting Sept. 18, the Dallas Arboretum unveils 90,000 pumpkins, gourds, and squash for its annual Autumn Celebration. In its 16th year, the park has added a new pumpkin village behind the Jonsson Color Garden. Families will enjoy the ‘Bugtopia’ theme, featuring towering insect‑shaped topiaries, whimsical pumpkin houses, and a classic maze.
  3. After a two‑year hiatus, the State Fair of Texas opens its gates on Sept. 24. With beloved staples and exciting new offerings, the fair promises an unforgettable experience. Explore our guide to six must‑see highlights of this year’s fair.

Three Fun Days to Celebrate (and ways to enjoy them!)

  1. Sept. 4 – National Wildlife Day: Visit the Dallas Zoo or the Dallas World Aquarium (or both) to honor the city’s diverse wildlife.
  2. Sept. 6 – Labor Day: Browse our curated list of events and activities celebrating the holiday across Dallas.
  3. Sept. 16 – Cheeseburger Day: Treat yourself to a juicy burger—discover our top picks for the best cheeseburgers in town.

Key September Events

  • Sept. 3–5: Coco – Live in Concert – Meyerson Symphony Center
  • Sept. 10–12: Deep Ellum Arts Festival – Deep Ellum
  • Sept. 11: Dallas Observer Brewfest – Dallas Farmers Market
  • Sept. 17–19: Fan Expo Dallas – Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center
  • Sept. 24: State Fair of Texas opening day – Fair Park
  • Sept. 25: State Fair Classic – Cotton Bowl Stadium
  • Sept. 25: Texas Latinx Pride Fest 2021 – Reverchon Park

And countless more! Visit our events calendar for additional must‑visit September happenings.

*AT&T Stadium is a member of VisitDallas.

Travel Notes
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