Things To Do Around DFW: Lights, arts, country music, and more

Holiday lights and arts festivals are beginning to pop up around North Texas this week, while big-name country music artists like Cody Johnson and Robert Earl Keen prepare to play shows in Arlington and Fort Worth. There's no shortage of things to do around North Texas this week.

Anatomy of a Murder

After losing his re-election bid as District Attorney, Paul Biegler reluctantly steps into defense work, quickly landing a headline-grabbing case: a lieutenant accused of murdering a bartender who allegedly assaulted his wife. It's a tense, high-stakes courtroom battle, as Biegler uses every tactic to defend his client and navigate the complex layers of justice.

Where: Richardson Theatre Centre, 518 W Arapaho Rd # 113, Richardson

When: November 7-10

Cost: $20 - $22

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Astra Lumina

Astra Lumina offers a magical night walk through an enchanted forest, transforming ordinary trails into a cosmic journey filled with celestial light, ethereal sounds, and mesmerizing visions. As visitors explore, fallen stars release radiant energy, guiding guests along a luminous pathway to witness their celestial rebirth. This multi-sensory experience is suitable for all ages and invites guests to connect with the stars in a truly enchanting setting.

Where: Trinity Forest Adventure Park, 1800 Dowdy Ferry Rd, Dallas

When: Evenings from October 31 - December 15

Cost: $25 and up

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Billy Bob's: Jackyl (Friday) / Robert Earl Keen (Saturday) / Texas Country Music Awards (Sunday)

Where: Billy Bob's Fort Worth

When: Friday at 10 p.m., Saturday at 10 p.m., Sunday at 6 p.m.

Cost: $20 - $100 for concerts / $125 - $75 RES / $35 - $30 GA for TCMA

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Brass and Jazz in the Park

Enjoy a free community event filled with live jazz, jazz dance, New Orleans brass, and the vibrant energy of Black Mardi Gras Indians. Indulge in Louisiana cuisine, take part in family art activities, and join a traditional New Orleans Second Line. The event also features the Brass and Jazz Market, a dynamic space for BIPOC vendors and artists, curated by The New Orleans Original BuckShop. This year's festival theme, "And the Youth Shall Lead," highlights young performers and the future of jazz. Family-friendly and fun for all, with food and drinks available—bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy!

Where: Mattie Nash-Myrtle Davis Park; 3710 N Hampton Rd, Dallas

When: Saturday, November 9 at 1 p.m.

Cost: Free with RSVP

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Cody Johnson

Country singer Cody Johnson is set to perform at Globe Life Field in Arlington on November 9, 2024, as part of his "Leather Tour," promoting his 2023 album, Leather. He will be joined by special guests Jon Pardi, Tracy Byrd, and Ella Langley.

Where: Globe Life Field, Arlington

When: Saturday, November 9 at 6 p.m.

Cost: Sold Out (resale starting at around $100)

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DMA: Frida: Beyond the Myth

Composed of over 60 works across media—paintings, drawings, prints, and photographs—the exhibitionwill explore the life of one of the 20th century's most well-documented artists, who continues to elude our understanding of her as an individual.

Where: Dallas Museum of Art, 1717 N Harwood St, Dallas

When: August 21 - November 17

Cost: $20

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Dinosaurs Live!

Visitors can explore a half-mile nature trail featuring eleven life-size animatronic dinosaurs that move and roar. The exhibit also includes interesting facts about various dinosaurs, stationary baby dinosaurs for kids to play on, and photo ops with a Tyrannosaurus rex and Pachyrhinosaurus. An outdoor hadrosaur fossil dig will inspire budding paleontologists. The exhibit is included with general admission and free for Heard Museum members.

Where: Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, McKinney

When: August 31 - February 19, 2025

Cost: $9-$12

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Encanto: The Sing Along Film Concert

Disney Concerts and AMP Worldwide present Encanto: The Sing-Along Film Concert, a cross-national tour where Encanto lovers of all ages sing along with their favorite GRAMMY®-Award winning songs performed by a live band while watching the full film. From the infectious rhythms of 'We Don't Talk About Bruno' to the heartfelt melodies of 'Surface Pressure,' every moment will come alive. Dress up as your favorite character and immerse yourself in the magical celebration of the Madrigal family. (Enjoy a performance in English on Friday and a performance in Spanish on Saturday!)

Where: Eisemann Center, Richardson

When: Friday, November 8 at 8:00 p.m. (English); Saturday, November 9 at 2:00 p.m. (Spanish)

Cost: $20 and up

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The Fab Four: The Ultimate Tribute

The Fab Four: The Ultimate Tribute brings their USA Meets The Beatles tour to Dallas, celebrating the iconic band's first U.S. visit. The show features performances from The Ed Sullivan Show, the Meet The Beatles album, and hits spanning every era of the Beatles' legendary career. Each member is a skilled multi-instrumentalist, allowing the group to faithfully recreate the Beatles' diverse catalog live onstage, without any backing tracks.

Where: Majestic Theater, 1925 Elm St, Dallas

When: Saturday, November 9 at 7:30 p.m.

Cost: $22 and up

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for KING + COUNTRY LIVE: The UNSUNG HERO 2024 Tour

Where: American Airlines Center, Dallas

When: Sunday, November 10 at 7:00 p.m.

Cost: $25 and up

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Funnier Than a Mutha Comedy Festival

The third annual Funnier Than a Mutha Comedy Festival returns with headliner D.L. Hughley, promising a night of non-stop laughter. Hosted by the ever-hilarious Rickey Smiley, the event brings together top comedic talent for an unforgettable evening of humor and entertainment.

Where: Texas Trust CU Theatre, Grand Prairie

When: Saturday, November 9 at 7:30 p.m.

Cost: $39 and up

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George W. Bush Presidential Center: Freedom Matters

Freedom Matters uses rare artifacts and historical documents, interactive activities, and personal perspectives to examine the concept of freedom: where it comes from, what it means, what free societies look like, and the role of the individual in protecting and spreading freedom around the world.

Where: George W. Bush Presidential Center, 2943 SMU Boulevard, Dallas

When: Daily through December 31, 2024

Cost: $20 - $26

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Haas Moto Museum

The Haas Moto Museum celebrates its grand opening at a new North Dallas location, fulfilling a promise to honor the legacy of visionary motorcycle collector and innovator Bobby Haas. Home to one of the world's largest private motorcycle collections, the museum showcases 125 years of history with 230 bikes, including rare gems like a 1938 Brough Superior and a 1929 Majestic. The collection also features 60 custom creations by renowned builders such as Craig Rodsmith, Max Hazan, and Cristian Sosa, making it a must-visit for motorcycle enthusiasts.

Where: Haas Moto Museum & Sculpture Gallery; 1201 Oak Lawn Ave Suite 110, Dallas

When: Daily, starting Saturday, November 9

Cost: $10

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Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live Glow Party

The Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live Glow Party brings fan-favorite trucks like Mega Wrex, Tiger Shark, Bone Shaker, and the brand-new HW 5-Alarm to life with dazzling lights and special effects. The event features a laser light show, dance parties, and Hot Wheels giveaways. Highlights include the fire-breathing, car-eating robot Transaurus and thrilling Freestyle Motocross stunts.

Where: Dickies Arena, Fort Worth

When: November 9 at 12:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. / November 10 at 2:30 p.m.

Cost: $14-$34 and up

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Lapiplasty Pickleball World Championships

The Lapiplasty Pickleball World Championships are underway at Brookhaven Country Club in Farmers Branch. This premier event features both professional and amateur pickleball matches, with nearly 80 permanent courts set up to accommodate the competition. In addition to the matches, attendees can enjoy live musical performances, a celebrity pro-am, and various entertainment options along Pickleball Boulevard. As the fastest growing sport in America with more than 36.5 million players, pickleball will take center stage in Dallas-Fort Worth as the world's top professional pickleball players compete for the world title, coinciding with an on-site amateur tournament open to the public. Last year, Brookhaven Country Club welcomed more than 50,000 fans and 3,500 competitors from 49 states, bringing an estimated $14 million in economic impact to the region.

Where: Brookhaven Country Club, 3333 Golfing Green Dr, Farmers Branch

When: November 6-10

Cost: $80 for Grounds Pass/$200 for Courtside Pass/$1,000 VIP

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The Light Park (Arlington)

The Light Park is a mile-long drive-thru holiday experience filled with millions of lights synchronized to music mixed by DJ Polar Ice. With tickets priced per vehicle, it's a perfect group outing to cruise through the world's longest light tunnel, enjoy lively beats, and soak in the festive atmosphere.

Where: Hurricane Harbor, Arlington

When: November 1 - January 5

Cost: $29 and up

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The Light Park (Frisco)

The Light Park is a mile-long drive-thru holiday experience filled with millions of lights synchronized to music mixed by DJ Polar Ice. With tickets priced per vehicle, it's a perfect group outing to cruise through the world's longest light tunnel, enjoy lively beats, and soak in the festive atmosphere.

Where: Riders Field, 7300 Rough Riders Trl, Frisco

When: November 1 - January 5

Cost: $29 and up

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LINKIN PARK: From Zero World Tour

Where: Globe Life Field, Arlington

When: Friday, November 8 at 6 p.m.

Cost: $66 and up

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A Little Night Music

Set in 1900s Sweden, A Little Night Music follows actress Desirée Armfeldt as she reconnects with her former lover, lawyer Fredrik Egerman, reigniting passions and sparking jealousy among Fredrik's young wife Anne, Desirée's current lover Count Carl-Magnus Malcolm, and the Count's wife, Charlotte. When Desirée invites everyone for a weekend at her mother's estate, the gathering turns into a swirl of tangled romances and unexpected second chances, as each character confronts their desires in this romantic, music-filled comedy.

Where: Irving Arts Center, 3333 N MacArthur Blvd, Irving

When: November 8-10 / November 14-16

Cost: $29 and up

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Minecraft Experience: Villager Rescue

The Minecraft Experience: Villager Rescue is making its world premiere in Plano this weekend. Designed as an immersive, real-world adventure, the experience allows fans to step into the Minecraft universe and participate in an interactive quest. Visitors will navigate through themed environments, solving puzzles and challenges as they try to rescue villagers from danger. This event marks the beginning of a global tour, with Dallas as its first stop, celebrating Minecraft's 15th anniversary. Fans of all ages can join the fun running through January 5.

Where: Parker Road Station, 2600 Archerwood St, Plano

When: October 18 - January 5

Cost: $32 and up

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Mrs. Doubtfire

Everyone's favorite Scottish nanny is headed to Fort Worth in an internationally acclaimed hit musical critics call "wonderful, heart-warming, and laugh-out-loud funny" (Manchester Evening News) and "a feel-good, family-friendly comedy that delivers." Based on the beloved film and directed by four-time Tony Award® winner Jerry Zaks, MRS. DOUBTFIRE tells the hysterical and heartfelt story of an out-of-work actor who will do anything for his kids. It's "the lovable, big-hearted musical comedy we need right now," raves the Chicago Tribune – one that proves we're better together.

Where: Bass Performance Hall, Fort Worth

When: November 6-10

Cost: $55 and up

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The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley Jr.

The beloved children's book written by Jeff Brown is a literary and pop culture phenomenon. And now, everyone's favorite two-dimensional hero has a new life in The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley JR. filled with infectious songs and non-stop adventure.

Where: Theatre Arlington, 305 W Main St, Arlington

When: November 9-10

Cost: $15 and up

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Pelleas and Melisande from The Dallas Opera

Melisande, lost and vulnerable, finds herself trapped in a marriage to the domineering prince Golaud. In her isolation, she forms a deep bond with his brother, Pelleas, sparking a dangerous love that ignites Golaud's fury. This timeless story of forbidden passion, family jealousy, and regret unfolds against Debussy's radiant score, with Dutch director Jetske Mijnssen's sleek new production bringing a fresh, stark edge to the drama.

Where: Winspear Opera House; 2403 Flora St, Dallas

When: November 8 at 7:30 p.m.; November 10 at 2 p.m.; November 13 at 7:30 p.m.; November 16 at 7:30 p.m.

Cost: $15 and up

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Tianyu Lights Festival

The Tianyu Lights Festival is an enchanting journey through the vibrant rainforest of Caballococha, Peru, as seen through the eyes of a curious 7-year-old boy. Walk through the whimsical wonderland to see Koda's dreams through the luminous art installations. The experience features 19 immersive scenes brought to life with massive, intricately designed lantern sculptures made from metal, fabric, and LED lights. Try out delicious foods and beverages at the Food Court, enjoy live cultural music and dance performances throughout the journey, and complete your visit with a trip to the Marketplace, filled with unique, handcrafted treasures.

Where: Texas Trust CU Theatre, Grand Prairie

When: November 8 - January 19

Cost: $16-$35

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A Tuna Christmas

It's 24 hours before Christmas and all comic hell is about to break loose! Tuna's delightfully eccentric characters return to Casa Mañana and attempt to cope with seasonal traumas, like a disaster-prone little theatre production of A Christmas Carol and a yard decorating contest that's being sabotaged by a mysterious Christmas phantom. This hilarious sequel to Greater Tuna once again follows the weird and wacky inhabitants of Tuna, a fictional town in Texas, through a cast of just two actors! This show is suitable for most audiences.

Where: Casa Mañana, 3101 W Lancaster Ave, Fort Worth

When: November 9-10; November 12-17

Cost: $49 and up

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Turtle Creek Arts Festival

The Turtle Creek Arts Festival turns the scenic park into an open-air gallery, featuring around 100 talented local and regional artists, including painters, photographers, sculptors, and jewelers. Visitors can explore a vibrant mix of art, enjoy live demonstrations, and meet the creators behind the works. The event also offers a kids' area, along with food and drinks from local vendors and food trucks, making it a perfect weekend outing for all ages.

Where: Reverchon Park; 3505 Maple Ave, Dallas

When: Saturday, November 9 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, November 10 from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Cost: Free

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