Ah, autumn in Texas. Who doesn’t love it? Especially in Arlington, where the pursuit of happy can involve anything from ghosts—to roller coasters—to pro football— to a Taylor Swift show. In other words: add some spice to your fall to-do list with these beloved howl-iday haunts:

ONE: Fright Fest, Sept. 26-Nov. 1, 2015

Six Flags Over Texas, Arlington Entertainment District
This one’s a real scream! The thrills, chills, rides, haunted houses, and all kinds of spooktacular fun. (Note: Not recommended after dark for children younger than 13).

 

TWO: After Dark in the Park, Oct. 9-11, 2015
River Legacy Park, Arlington Entertainment District

A charming fall festival that features storytelling under the stars, a pumpkin patch, hayrides, and tons of other family-friendly activities.

 

THREE: Pioneer Trail/Tour of Historic Buildings

Around Arlington

If there’s a better way to spend a fall afternoon than taking a self-guided tour of historic sites, we don’t know about it. Noteworthy stops along the tour include the Johnson Plantation Cemetery, the Village Creek Historical Park, Top O’ The Hill Terrace, and Arlington Music Hall. 

 

FOUR:  Taylor Swift Concert, Oct. 17, 2015

AT&T Stadium, Arlington Entertainment District

Yep, the Queen of Pop is headed to Arlington, where you can party like it’s 1989 at her world tour. VIP hotel packages available from your friends at ACVB.

 

FIVE: Texas Rangers Baseball, Oct. 1-4, 2015

Globe Life Park, Arlington Entertainment District

Code Red! The mighty Texas Rangers close out the regular season with a home stretch against the Angels (and hopefully set the stage for a winning start to the MLB playoffs). #NeverEverQuit…

 

SIX: Dallas Cowboys Football

AT&T Stadium, Arlington Entertainment District

Oct. 11 (vs. New England), Nov. 1 (vs. Seattle), Nov. 8 (vs. Philadelphia) and Thanksgiving/Nov. 26 (vs. North Carolina)

Stand up, Cowboys Nation, we’re throwing it down Arlington-style in October and November. VIP and hotel packages available.

 

SEVEN: Taste of Arlington, Oct. 20, 2015

Arlington Convention Center, Arlington Entertainment District

Delicious dishes from dozens of Arlington’s best restaurants all in one place? Proceeds from this tasty Arlington tradition benefit the Arlington YMCA and Theatre Arlington.

 

EIGHT: Rock n’ Roll Wall of Fame Exhibit, Through Oct. 18, 2015

Arlington Museum of Art, Downtown Arlington

Rock n’ roll as art? Yes, please! The must-see event of the fall is “Rock n’ Roll Wall of Fame” exhibit, which amps up unique photos of legendary musicians that will really rock your world!

 

NINE: Live Music and Live Theatre in Levitt Pavilion/Arlington Music Hall/Theatre Arlington

Downtown Arlington

A Johnny Cash tribute show, a Joe Ely concert and productions of “Hello, Dolly” and “The Outsiders” are just a few of the live events that Downtown Arlington serves up in October and November.

 

TEN: College Sports

UT-Arlington, Downtown Arlington

Catch the action at Arlington’s beautiful College Park Center, which is the home field UT- Arlington Men’s Basketball and Women’s Volleyball teams. Games are scheduled for October and November.

 

ELEVEN: Texas Christkindl Market, Nov. 27-December 23

Arlington Entertainment District (next to Globe Life Park)

Experience the magic of the holidays at one of the largest open air markets in the Southwest – which is also a fabulous place to kick off the most bustling time of the shopping year with a few unique gifts.

 

TWELVE:  Outdoor dining

Around Arlington – Find great Arlington restaurants

The crisp fall weather makes October and November an excellent time to dine and drink outdoors. For your consideration: