September is one of the best months to get out and enjoy North Texas. The weather begins to cool, school spirit is high, and communities across the region come together to celebrate tradition, culture, and good food. From big-ticket events to small-town favorites, here are the festivals and fairs you won’t want to miss this September in North Texas.
State Fair of Texas – September 26 - October 19, 2025
Everything really is bigger in Texas, and nowhere is that truer than at the State Fair of Texas. From Big Tex’s welcoming wave to over-the-top fried food creations, this event is a fall tradition that draws visitors from across the state and beyond. Expect thrilling rides, livestock shows, car exhibits, live concerts, and the famous Big Tex Choice Awards that showcase wild food inventions like Wagyu Bacon Cheeseburger Deviled Egg Sliders. Find additional information on how to get there using public transportation here.
Must-do: Snap a picture with Big Tex and don’t leave without trying at least one new fair food creation.
Denton Arts & Autos – September 13
Blending creativity and cars, the event showcases electric vehicles, restored hot rods, custom cars, and motorcycles alongside a juried art show featuring local talent. Free to attend, visitors can enjoy live music, kids’ activities, food vendors, and plenty of small-town charm in Denton’s historic courthouse square. This year’s event adds a modern twist with Electric Avenue, a showcase dedicated to electric vehicles and sustainable transportation. Explore EV models up close, learn about charging technology, and see how automotive innovation is shaping the future, while celebrating the past with classic rides.
Must-do: Cast your vote in the “People’s Choice” car show, then head over to Electric Avenue to get a glimpse of where the road is headed.
Denton County Preparedness Fair – September 13
This community-focused fair is all about readiness and resilience. Families can meet local first responders, tour emergency vehicles, and take part in interactive demonstrations. It’s a fun and educational way to learn more about disaster preparedness while also connecting with your community.
Denton Blues Fest – September 19-21
Music fills the air at Denton’s annual Blues Fest, a weekend dedicated to soulful performances, great food, and local vendors. It’s a laid-back celebration of music and community that draws visitors from across the region. Make sure to grab a plate from one of the food vendors and settle in for a live set.
Plano Balloon Fest – September 18-21
One of the most colorful events in North Texas. Each September, during this family-friendly tradition, the skies fill with vibrant hot air balloons. Alongside the balloon launches and evening “glows,” the festival features live music, a kids’ zone, food vendors, and a half-marathon event.
Dallas Ft. Worth Pumpkin Nights – September 18 – October 31
This after-dark festival transforms over 5,000 hand-carved pumpkins into glowing, themed worlds. Families can stroll through large displays, enjoy seasonal treats, and participate in fun activities like pumpkin carving and games.
Celebrating Sustainability
Consider a few simple ways to enjoy these celebrations while also being kind to the environment.
- Bring a reusable water bottle. Many festivals offer refill stations. Staying hydrated without buying single-use plastic bottles helps reduce waste. Use the event websites linked above to check the event information and ensure reusable water bottles are allowed.
- Carpool or take public transit. Events like the State Fair of Texas draw huge crowds, so sharing rides can ease traffic and cut down on emissions. Consider using TryParkingIt to find travel options.
- Dispose of trash and recyclables properly.
- Support local vendors.
- Choose eco-friendly souvenirs.
Additionally, remember to sign up for Air Quality Alerts to receive updates on the Air Quality Index (AQI) when going to these outdoor festivals.
From Dallas to Denton and Collin County to Tarrant County, September is filled with opportunities to gather, celebrate, and make memories. So mark your calendar, invite your friends and family, and get ready to experience North Texas.