Things To Do Around DFW: Denton 4th of July Celebration, Light Up Arlington & more!

If you're looking for ideas on things to do this weekend around DFW, look no further! KRLD's John Liddle takes you 'Around Town' with plenty of fun things to do on date nights, singles nights, family outings, and more for June 27-30.

June 27 - June 30

Aladdin: Dual-Language Edition

Disney's Aladdin DLE features a revamped plot that creates dramatic necessity for the bilingual script. The story begins centuries ago, when the royalty of Agrabah spoke one language, and the citizens another. Communication is impossible without translation... which is controlled by the evil vizier, Jafar. When the rebellious princess, Jazmin, and a delinquent street rat, Aladdin, meet in the marketplace, they find something special in one another. Together, they work to transcend the barriers between them, and with a little magic, help create a better future for themselves and for Agrabah.
Where: The Firehouse Theatre, Farmers Branch
When: June 27-30, July 5-8

Cost: $35 and up

More info: https://ci.ovationtix.com/35214/production/1183303

Allen USA

Enjoy music from headliner Infinite Journey and opening act Straight Tequila Night. From foodie fare to fair favorites, more than a dozen food trucks will keep you fueled up for fun. One of the largest, most spectacular fireworks displays in North Texas pops off at 9:30 p.m.
Where: Celebration Park, 701 N Angel Pkwy, Allen
When: Saturday, June 29 from 6 p.m. - 10 p.m. (Gates open at 5 p.m.)

Cost: Free (must reserve tickets in advance)

More info:

Andrew Lloyd Webber's Cats

One of the biggest hits in theatrical history, CATS, comes to The Courtyard Theater, June 21-30. Composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber and based on T.S. Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, the record-breaking musical spectacular has captivated audiences in over 30 countries and 15 languages, is now available by special permission to be performed in Historical Downtown Plano. New direction, new choreography for a new generation…..experience CATS for the first time as it begins a new life, or let it thrill you all over again!
Where: Courtyard Theater, 1509 H Ave, Plano
When: June 28-30

Cost: $20 and up

More info: https://www.rcttheatre.com/

Anime Wonder Yakyu

Anime Wonder is bringing the first ever Vtuber and baseball collaboration in America to Frisco as Vtuber star Kori Oujo will appear at the Roughriders game. Kori will be making a special appearance on the stadium big screen as she interacts with the crowd with the official Riders Chant and sings “Take Me Out to the Ball Game'' with Riders fans. The first 500 Anime Wonder fans who arrive at the grounds and present their ticket to AW guest services will receive a limited edition Anime Wonder Chikuma X Frisco Roughriders Season 1 Collectors Trading Card. Fans will have the chance to check out Anime exhibitors and artists and snap pics with talented cosplayers.

Where: Riders Field, Frisco
When: Saturday, June 29 at 6:00 p.m.

Cost: $20

More info: https://animewonderfest.com/

Billy Bob’s: KODY WEST (Friday) / LITTLE JOE Y LA FAMILIA (Saturday)

Where: Billy Bob’s Fort Worth
When: Friday at 10 p.m., Saturday at 10 p.m.

Cost: $18 - $65

More info: https://billybobstexas.com/events

Dallas Arboretum: Summer at the Arboretum

As part of the Dallas Arboretum’s Summer at the Arboretum programming, indulge in a tropical paradise right in the heart of Dallas. This year’s Swinging Summer Hammock Exhibit features 150 free standing hammocks in the shady Pecan Grove. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the ambiance of summer. Celebrate the colors and beauty of tropical flora. June features over 70,000 new plantings including monstera, elephant ears, cannas, bird of paradise, bromeliads, bougainvillea, and more.
Where: Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, Dallas
When: June 1 – August 4

Cost: $10 - $16

More info: https://www.dallasarboretum.org/event/memorial-day-weekend/

Denton 4th of July Celebration

On Saturday, June 29, the City of Denton will host the traditional Liberty 5K & Fun Run and Yankee Doodle Parade in downtown Denton. The run starts at 7:30 a.m. and the Yankee Doodle Parade begins at 9 a.m. On Wednesday, July 3 between 6 p.m. - 11 p.m. they'll host the July Jubilee Festival. This free family-friendly event features live music, tasty treats from local vendors, inflatables, games, rock climbing, face painting, photo opportunities, a hot dog eating contest, and to cap off the evening, a spectacular drone show presented by Denton Noon Kiwanis.

Where: Downtown Denton

When: Saturday, June 29 starting at 7:30 a.m. & Wednesday, July 3 from 6 p.m. - 11 p.m.

Cost: Free

More info: https://www.cityofdenton.com/954/Independence-Day

The Doobie Brothers

The Doobie Brothers will be joined in concert by The Robert Cray Band.

Where: Dos Equis Pavilion, Dallas

When: Saturday, June 29 at 7 p.m.

Cost: $35 and up

More info: https://thedoobiebrothers.com/

Ennis Freedom Fest

The celebration in Ennis starts on Saturday morning at the Downtown Ennis Bluebonnet Market, where the Red, White and Bike Parade steps off at 10 a.m. There will be winners for “Best Under 6,” “Best Family,” and “Most Patriotic.”

Then on Saturday night, Ennis Freedom Fest continues at Veterans Memorial Park with gates opening at 6 p.m. for free kids activities including rock climbing, paddle boats, inflatables and food and treats. There’s great music with 80’s Gadgets playing starting at 7:30 p.m. Then the fireworks show begins at dark powered by Pyrotecnico.  But you must be in Veterans Park to see it!

Where: Veterans Memorial Park, 2301 Ennis Pkwy, Ennis

When: Saturday, June 29 at 6 p.m.

Cost: Free

More info: https://www.visitennistexas.com/freedomfest

FWBG: Seward Johnson Sculptures in the Garden

Twenty-one life-size sculptures by the late artist Seward Johnson will be on display throughout the Garden, Mar. 1 – Sept. 1,  2024. This head-turning exhibit of “living” art will take Garden guests by surprise as they encounter sculptures that fool the eye and beg for double takes. Strategically placed to blend with their surroundings, Mr. Johnson’s unique creations strive to make everyday occurrences special and bring classic art to life.

Where: Fort Worth Botanic Garden, 3220 Botanic Garden Blvd, Fort Worth

When: March 1 - September 1

Cost: Included with general admission: $6 - $12

More info: https://fwbg.org/events/seward-johnson-sculptures/

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

More Info: https://www.bushcenter.org/events-and-exhibits/freedom-matters

Grapevine Main Live!

Grapevine Main Live! is a spring music series where visitors can enjoy performances by some of the top local artists and bands from the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Set on Peace Plaza, right outside Harvest Hall, attendees can also savor food from eight chef-inspired global kitchens and indulge in specialty crafted cocktails. On June 28 the band is Champagne Yacht Club.

Where: Peace Plaza in Grapevine, 815 S Main St, Grapevine

When: Friday, June 28 at 7:30 p.m.

Cost: Free

More Info

Hairspray

You Can’t Stop the Beat! HAIRSPRAY, Broadway’s Tony Award-winning musical comedy phenomenon is back on tour! Join 16-year-old Tracy Turnblad in 1960s Baltimore as she sets out to dance her way onto TV’s most popular show. Can a girl with big dreams (and even bigger hair) change the world?

Where: Music Hall at Fair Park, Dallas

When: June 25-30

Cost: $30 and up

More info: https://dallas.broadway.com/shows/hairspray/

The Hunchback of Notre Dame

Based on the Victor Hugo novel and songs from the Disney animated feature, The Hunchback of Notre Dame showcases the film’s Academy Award-nominated score, as well as new songs.

Where: New Vida Church of God, 3727 W Kiest Blvd, Dallas

When: June 28-29

Cost: $15-$20

More Info: https://www.familymusictheatre.com/hunchback

Hundred Days

What would you do if you only had a hundred days to live? To love? This whirlwind rock journey pulls us into a world where the thrill of the unknown collides with the poignant beauty of a love story; all intertwined with an intoxicating score. Join us where the musicians in the band are the storytellers who bring this true-to-life story straight to the Circle stage.

Where: Circle Theatre, 230 W 4th St, Fort Worth

When: June 27-29; July 4-6

Cost: $27 and up

More Info: https://www.circletheatre.com/hundreddays

I, Too, Sing America

This patriotic performance offers a unique perspective, emphasizing that — regardless of our diverse backgrounds, gender, sexual expression, race, or origin — we all contribute to the "tapestry of Americans." In these tumultuous times, we will unite to create something both powerful and star-spangled! Accompanied by the Women’s chorus of Dallas, a brass orchestra, and featuring the Meyerson Lay Family Organ, the concert includes beloved patriotic tunes and introduces new, thought-provoking pieces that explore what it truly means to be an American. Don't miss this thrilling and hopeful evening of music!

Where: Meyerson Symphony Center, 2301 Flora St, Dallas

When: Thursday, June 27 and Friday, June 28 at 7:30 p.m.

Cost: $30 and up

More Info: https://www.turtlecreekchorale.com/concerts

Klyde Warren Park Independence Day Celebration

Enjoy summer treats from a variety of food trucks, live music from Angel White and Grace Tyler, family-fun programming and the grand finale — a pair of fireworks shows launched from both sides of the Park (including the roof of the DMA) and synced to a playlist by Dallas celebrity DJ, Lucy Wrubel. This event is free and open to the public, and seating is first-come, first-served. Experience patriotic colors at the Nancy Best Fountain, where a dazzling display will dance through July 7.

Where: Klyde Warren Park, Dallas

When: Saturday, June 29 at 7 p.m. (Fireworks at 9:40 p.m.)

Cost: Free

More Info

Light Up Arlington

This year's celebration includes some of the top musical acts in the Dallas-Fort Worth region, vendors, food trucks and plenty of kid-friendly fun. Bands will perform at four stages around Downtown, starting with 6 p.m. concerts outside the Arlington Music Hall and Grease Monkey, a 6:30 p.m. concert outside of Municipal Office Tower and a 7:00 p.m. concert at Levitt Pavilion Arlington. The bubble bus and face painting will be returning for the little ones at the Downtown Library. The Arlington Police Department is leveling up the fun at this year's celebration with their GameUp 5-0 trailer. Vendors and at least 20 food trucks, featuring a variety of food and desserts, will be located in the Downtown Arlington area. The Children's Entrepreneur Market will return to this year's festivities. Through this market, kids gain real-world experience in creating goods, packaging them for sale, attracting customers and handling money. The fireworks display, which lasts about 20 minutes, is scheduled to start at 9:50 p.m.

Where: Levitt Pavilion, 100 W Abram St, Arlington

When: Saturday, June 29 from 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. (fireworks at 9:50 p.m.)

Cost: Free

More Info: https://www.arlingtontx.gov/independence_day

Mansfield Rocks

Mansfield Rocks celebrates our nation’s birthday with concerts on Friday and Saturday and a fireworks show on Wednesday, July 3. On Friday night, catch End of an Era Tour: Taylor Nation Tribute Show at The LOT Downtown. On Saturday night, Bluffet – Tribute to Jimmy Buffett. Then the fireworks will be launched on Wednesday, July 3 from Heritage & National Pkwy.

Where: The Lot Downtown ( 110 S. Main St., Mansfield ) - concerts on Fri/Sat
Where: Mansfield Sports Park, 500 Heritage Pkwy S, Mansfield (Wednesday fireworks)

When: Friday, June 28 at 7 p.m., Saturday, June 29 at 7 p.m. and Wednesday, July 3 at 9 p.m.

Cost: Free

More Info: https://mansfieldrockin.com/

Meow Wolf: The Real Unreal

Is it real? Is it a dream? Is it Meow Wolf’s fourth permanent exhibition? Yes. Get to know the unknown in this mind-bending, interactive art experience located at Grapevine Mills. Explore the transformative power of creative energy at Meow Wolf’s The Real Unreal. When an ordinary family encounters the extraordinary, an inspiring tale of chosen family, community, and the power of imagination unfolds within a mesmerizing, interactive artscape. Featuring a massive collaboration between Texas and Santa Fe based artists, Meow Wolf Grapevine expands into a new era of art and storytelling.

Where: Meow Wolf Grapevine, 3000 Grapevine Mills Pkwy Suite 253, Grapevine

When: Daily

Cost: $20 and up

More Info: https://meowwolf.com/

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Love, enchantment and hilarity ensue under the Texas sky! Experience Shakespeare’s classic in the magical setting of Hip Pocket Theatre. Worlds collide in this beloved comedy, perfect for any audience.

Where: Hip Pocket Theatre, 1950 Silver Crk Rd, Fort Worth

When: June 28-30; July 5-7

Cost: $10 - $25

More Info: https://www.hippocket.org/48th-season-2024

The Music of Elton John

Broadway’s best perform all your favorites from the iconic discography of Sir Elton John. Celebrate the Rocket Man’s legendary career as you “hop and bop” through the decades and hear the stories behind his inimitable music and style. Featuring the dazzling songs that influenced generations, including “Your Song,” “Tiny Dancer,” “Rocket Man,” “Bennie and the Jets,” “Candle in the Wind,” “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” “Saturday Night’s Alright,” “I’m Still Standing,” “Crocodile Rock” and more. This show is suitable for most audiences.

Where: Casa Mañana’s Reid Cabaret, 3101 W Lancaster Ave, Fort Worth

When: June 25-29

Cost: $75 (very limited tickets remain)

More Info: https://casamanana.org/events/elton-john/

Parade of Playhouses

The 29th annual Dallas CASA Parade of Playhouses features imaginative children’s playhouses to support child victims of abuse or neglect. Architects, builders, organizations, corporations, and individuals design, build, and donate these extraordinary playhouses to raise funds for Dallas CASA. The event spans 17 days, during which raffle tickets are sold for a chance to win a playhouse. All proceeds from ticket sales and sponsorships benefit Dallas CASA, enabling them to provide more volunteer advocates to ensure safe and healthy childhoods for the children they serve.

Where: NorthPark Center, Dallas

When: June 14-30

Cost: Free to view, Raffle tickets are $5

More info: https://www.dallascasa.org/dallas-casa-events/parade-of-playhouses/

Pepe Aguilar

Pepe Aguilar's new tour, "Jaripeo Hasta los Huesos," includes bulls and riders, mariachi, tradition, and charrería with a "Day of the Dead" theme.

Where: American Airlines Center, Dallas

When: Saturday, June 29 at 8:00 p.m.

Cost: $40 and up

More info

PianoTexas International Festival

PianoTexas International Festival & Academy presents a full calendar of piano events during the month of June that places Fort Worth on the cultural map of the world. Events include piano recitals, masterclasses, and concerto performances with the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra.
See the full schedule here .

Where: Van Cliburn Concert Hall at TCU, 2900 W Lowden St, Fort Worth

When: June 29, 30

Cost: $25-$35

More info: https://pianotexas.tcu.edu/

Pirates of Penzance

Gilbert and Sullivan's hilarious, hopeful musical follows young love-struck Frederic, who has mistakenly been apprenticed to a raucous band of pirates. A smash hit on Broadway in the 1980’s, this comical operetta is a colorful, playful romp about love, honor, and cleverness.
A witty and whimsical pirate musical!

Where: Theatre Three, 2688 Laclede St, Dallas

When: June 26-30; July 4-7; July 11-14

Cost: $40

More Info: https://www.theatre3dallas.com/shows-tickets/

Prismatic Art Pop-Up Experience

Explore a never-before imagined universe of color!
Leave your expectations at the door and see the world through a completely new lens at the hit new pop-up PRISMATIC. Immerse yourself in rooms each decorated with one single color & theme, designed and built by local high school students. Open to the public: June 1-September 29 on Fridays-Sundays, Prismatic also offers adult (21+) only nights on Thursdays.

Where: South Side on Lamar, 1409 S Lamar St, Dallas

When: June 27-30; July 4-7; July 11-14; July 18-21; July 25-28; August 1-4; August 8-11; August 15-18; August 22-25; August 29-Sept 1; Sept 5-8; Sept 12-15; Sept 19-22; Sept 26-29

Cost: $20 and up

More info: https://sparkdallas.org/prismatic/

Scenes from The Odyssey

This dramatic adaptation of Homer's myth begins with a modern young woman who is struggling to understand Robert Fitzgerald's translation of The Odyssey. A classical muse appears, and the young woman becomes the goddess Athena--a tireless advocate for Odysseus in his struggle to get home. With her trademark irreverent and witty twist on classic works, Zimmerman brings to life the story of Odysseus's ten-year journey, depicting his encounters with characters such as Circe, the Cyclops, Poseidon, Calypso, the Sirens, and others.

Where: Samuell-Grand Amphitheater, 1500 Tenison Pkwy, Dallas

When: June 26-28; July 3-5; July 10-12; July 17-19

Cost: $20 and up

More info: https://shakespearedallas.ticketspice.com/shakespeare-dallas-2024-season

Steve Earle

Steve Earle in concert at The Kessler

Where: The Kessler Theater, Dallas (Friday)
Where: Tannahill's Tavern & Music Hall (Sunday)

When: Friday, June 28 at 8:00 p.m. (Dallas)
When: Sunday, June 30 at 8:00 p.m. (Fort Worth)

Cost: $48 and up

More info: Friday in Dallas / Sunday in Fort Worth

Summer Nights at Circle

Circle Theatre will stay open late, showcase live music, and offer drink specials in their new, updated lobby. Taking place after every Saturday night performance of their summer shows, guests can stay after or meet at the theater to join in on the fun.

Where: Circle Theatre, 230 W 4th St, Fort Worth

When: June 8 - August 24

Cost: Free

More info: https://www.circletheatre.com/summernights

Thoughts of a Colored Man

This compelling play weaves together the stories of seven men who intersect at the bustling corner of a single day in Brooklyn. Through poetry, passion, and rhythmic prose, these narratives delve deep into the heart and soul of black manhood, exploring themes of love, community, strength, vulnerability, and the inner fight to prove their humanity in a world that questions it.

Where: Jubilee Theatre; 3925, 506 Main St, Fort Worth

When: June 27-30

Cost: $40

More info: https://www.jubileetheatre.org/show/thoughts-of-a-colored-man/

Twelfth Night

Shakespeare Dallas presents Twelfth Night. Viola and her twin brother, Sebastian have been shipwrecked; each believes the other to have drowned. Viola disguises herself as a young man, and under the name Cesario, gets a job as a servant for the Duke, Orsino.

Where: Samuell-Grand Amphitheater, 1500 Tenison Pkwy, Dallas

When: June 29-30; July 2; July 6-7; July 9; July 13-14; July 16; July 20-21

Cost: $15-$50

More info

Ultimate Park Days

Come solo, with friends, or bring the whole family—everyone’s welcome. They’ve planned a day that’s jam-packed with fun and FREE events: play some pickleball, relax over snacks and live music, and preview all the latest summer equipment and gear from Walmart.

Where: Courts McKinney Pickleball and Tennis Center, 3253 Alma Rd, McKinney

When: Saturday, June 29 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Cost: Free

More info

Wade Bowen

Wade Bowen with special guest Jenna Paulette plays at the Longhorn Ballroom on Saturday night.

Where: Longhorn Ballroom, 216 Corinth St, Dallas

When: Saturday, June 29 at 8:00 p.m.

Cost: $25 and up

More info

Walk this Way: Footwear from the Stuart Weitzman Collection of Historic Shoes

From silk boudoir shoes created for the 1867 Paris Exposition to leather spectator pumps signed by the 1941 New York Yankees, Walk this Way features more than 100 striking pairs of shoes. This exhibition presents footwear – spanning nearly 200 years – from the collection of iconic shoe designer Stuart Weitzman, and businesswoman and philanthropist Jane Gershon Weitzman.

Where: Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum, Dallas

When: Now - July 14

Cost: $19 for adults; $12 for students

More info: https://www.dhhrm.org/exhibitions/walk-this-way/

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