Experience the lively essence of autumn in Fort Worth through its wide range of fall festivals. Celebrating local culture and cuisine, these family-friendly events are brimming with music, activities, shopping and seasonal treats. They provide an ideal chance to relish the cool autumn breeze and explore the unique charm of Fort Worth’s festival season. Here are our top five fall festivals to explore in Fort Worth this season. 

Fort Worth Soul Food Festival

Savor dishes from more than 20 diverse food vendors hailing from Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Arkansas and neighboring states at the Fort Worth Soul Food Fest. Indulge in a variety of culinary delights such as pork chops, oxtails, candied yams, greens, fried chicken, fish, barbecue, funnel cake, turkey legs and tacos, with options for vegan and keto diets available. There will also be a range of small business vendors offering clothing, accessories, jewelry, bath and body products, men’s wear, health products and more. There will be live music and dance performances throughout the event.

When Noon-4 p.m. Aug. 11
Where Eventos Licon, 8629 Camp Bowie West Blvd., No. 8629, Fort Worth
Tickets $5-$50, some activities may have associated costs.

Fort Worth Oktoberfest 

Fort Worth Oktoberfest is a three-day celebration of German culture featuring traditional Bavarian beer, food and entertainment. This year’s lineup of German Polka Party Bands includes the Alex Meixner Band, Das Ist Lustig, Alpenmusikanten, Walburg Boys and the Happy Hour Oktoberfest Band, all the way from Bavaria! Guests can enjoy the cool, air-conditioned Spaten Halle, or relax in the Karbach Biergarten, exploring the expanded artisan market. There are also activities like stein hoisting and bier barrel rolling.

When Sept. 26-2
Where Trinity Park, 2401 University Drive, Fort Wort
Tickets $10-$20, kids 12 and under are free

Red Steagall Cowboy Gathering & Western Swing Festival

You won’t want to miss out on this ultimate family-friendly festival! At the Red Steagall Cowboy Gathering & Western Swing Festival, guests can participate in a horsemanship clinic or attend thrilling Ranch Rodeo performances. Youth poetry readings will be held and there will even be a youth fiddling competition. Delight in chuckwagon cook-offs and join in swing dancing sessions led by Red Steagall himself. 

When Oct. 25-27
Where Fort Worth Stockyards
Tickets Admission to this event is free, although some activities may have associated costs.

Fall Japanese Festival 

Presented with the backing of the Fort Worth Japanese Society, this event at the Botanic Garden is a wonderful gathering for families, celebrating Japanese culture through music, dance and cuisine. Experience live musical acts, shop vendors offering traditional Japanese artwork and jewelry, and savor delectable offerings from Asian food trucks, all set amidst the vibrant beauty of the Japanese Garden and Tea House.

When Nov. 2-3
Where Fort Worth Botanic Garden, 3220 Botanic Garden Blvd., Fort Worth
Tickets $6-plus. Entrance to this festival is free with general admission to the garden.