The seemingly non-stop rain in recent weeks has put a literal damper on what's supposed to be a great time of year, but we might get a break this weekend, just in time for some big events. Among your choices will be fancy ice cream and cocktails, a new local theater production, a sneak peek at Oscar-worthy movies, mind-blowing magic, and two big outdoor festivals.
Below are the best ways to spend your free time this weekend. Want more options? Lucky for you, we have a much longer list of the city's best events.
Thursday, October 18
2018 State Fair of Texas
Like any other outdoor activity the past couple of weeks, the State Fair of Texas has been hit hard by the rain, even closing early on a couple of days. The rain will continue on Thursday and Friday, but the final two days on Saturday and Sunday look perfect, meaning you'll still have a couple of chances to enjoy the fried food, midway games, rides, concerts, and more at Fair Park without worrying about getting wet. They're even extending hours for more finale-weekend fun. For discount ideas, head here.
Melt Ice Creams presents Wizarding Weeks
Melt Ice Creams will celebrate all things witch and wizard during Wizarding Weeks, going on through October 31. Customers can take a trip to the other side of Platform 9 3/4, as the shop will be stocked with ice cream flavors and creations inspired by Harry Potter and friends. Brooms, wands, and magic spells are welcome.
Fort Worth Cocktail Week
The annual Fort Worth Cocktail Week wraps up with two final events. The Margarita Party forum, taking place at FW Blackhouse on Thursday, will highlight rare agaves and tequilas from south of the border. Participants will get to taste exotic margaritas and other cocktails made with small batch Mexican/Latin American liquors. Gin vs. Vodka, in the Foundry District on Friday, will be a bare-knuckle brawl for the soul of the martini and an opportunity to showcase some of the world’s best clear liquors.
Symphony Arlington presents Rhapsody in Blue
Rhapsody in Blue is perhaps George Gershwin's most iconic composition, one that has earned its spot in the hearts and minds of many thanks to its multiple uses in popular culture. Symphony Arlington will open its 2018-2019 season by showcasing the piece, with pianist Simone Sala as featured performer. This will be a one-night-only concert at Arlington Music Hall.
Circle Theatre presents Men on Boats
Ten volunteers chart the course of the Colorado River in Jaclyn Backhaus’ off-the-wall comedy, Men On Boats, making its Fort Worth premiere at Circle Theatre. With a one-armed captain and a loyal crew, audiences will follow the true(ish) story of the 1869 Grand Canyon expedition. Will they survive the wild rapids to change the course of history? The production will run through November 17.
The Cliburn presents Adam Golka
Born and raised in Texas to a family of Polish musicians, pianist Adam Golka has won widespread critical and popular acclaim. A recipient of the Gilmore Young Artist Award and a fellowship from the American Pianists Association, he has performed with dozens of orchestras. He'll put on a special performance at Kimbell Art Museum.
Friday, October 19
Modern Cinema with Christopher Kelly
The return of Modern Cinema with Christopher Kelly, taking place through Sunday at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, will feature some of the best films of the year before they are available in theaters. Among the films being screened will be opening night film A Private War, with Rosamund Pike and Jamie Dornan; Boy Erased, with Nicole Kidman, Russell Crowe, and Lucas Hedges; and Everybody Knows, with Penélope Cruz and Javier Bardem.
TCU presents Homecoming 2018 — FrogFest and Walk The Moon
Homecoming weekend at TCU features a big game against the Oklahoma Sooners on Saturday, and they'll prep for that showdown with FrogFest on Friday. The event will feature local singer Josh Weathers, fireworks, and a headlining concert from Walk the Moon ("Shut Up and Dance") and opening act Northern National. Heim BBQ, Rollin’ Stone, The Dog House, Rollin’ and Bowlin’, Dough Boy Donuts, and other food trucks will be on site. The event was to have taken place at Worth Hills Village, but due to weather will now take place at Campus Commons.
Broadway at the Bass: The Illusionists
This mind-blowing spectacular showcases the jaw-dropping talents of five of the most incredible illusionists on earth who dazzle audiences of all ages with a powerful mix of the most outrageous and astonishing acts ever to be seen on stage. This non-stop show is packed with thrilling and sophisticated magic of unprecedented proportions. There will be three performances through Saturday at Bass Performance Hall.
Saturday, October 20
Near Southside Inc. presents ArtsGoggle
ArtsGoggle is Fort Worth’s premier festival of local arts that offers live music, artistic displays of every kind, and food, drink, and fun for everyone. The one-day event is a testament to the community spirit that fills the Near Southside, highlighting the work of local artists, musicians, and performers of all mediums and experience levels. The festival takes place on Magnolia Avenue from 8th Avenue to St. Louis Avenue, and on South Main Street, with a free trolley taking visitors to over 40 different venues.
Ranch Bash
The 2018 Ranch Bash, benefiting HEAR Fort Worth, will feature 10 bands on two stages for one giant day of Texas music. The festival-style event at Panther Island Pavilion will include performances by Shooter Jennings, Sam Riggs, Asleep at the Wheel, Shotgun Rider, The Buffalo Ruckus, Mason Lively, Shea Abshier & The Nighthawks, Summer Dean, Jon Stork, and more.
ArtsGoggle will take place in Near Southside on October 20.
Sopes plate at El Garambullo.
El Garambullo