Even though it's still unbearably warm outside in North Texas, fall is fast approaching. Just because we haven't received any crisp autumn winds or orange leaves doesn't mean we can't start embracing the new season! Our area boasts heaps of seasonal fun, from hayrides to pumpkin patches and so much more. So, make the most of this year's fall and check out some of the best activities in your area! 

1. Visit a Farm/Ranch 

As things (hopefully) start to cool down, head to some of the local farms around the area for petting zoos, hayrides, great food, and mazes. Some of them even have pumpkin patches you can visit, and the farm atmosphere practically screams "FALL IS HERE." Plus, visits usually cost less than $10 per person, so you won't break the bank with this fun activity. For a great list of nearby farms and ranches that are open for fall visits, visit Dallas Moms Blog. 

2. Indulge in Fried Food at the State Fair 

The annual State Fair of Texas opens in a little over a week, and most of us couldn't be more excited. Are you even a true Texan if you've never bought a fair corny dog or some borderline disgusting fried creation? I think not. You can shop, wine, and dine while enjoying a true piece of the Lone Star State's culture. For a list of ways to save on your admission fee at the fair, click here. 

3. Survive the World's Largest Haunted Attraction 

This month, Cutting Edge Haunted House opened its terrifying doors to the public once again. The world-famous attraction has won not one but two Guinness World Records for World's Largest Haunted Attraction and Largest Walk-Through Haunted House. It's the perfect way to get in the Halloween spirit if you're brave enough to face the horrors inside. 

4. Buy Tickets for a Football Game 

No one loves fall football more than Texans, and viewing the big games is an essential part of our seasonal fun. While watching the action on your living room television is still fun, it's really not the same as attending a game in person. Tailgating, fattening food, and loud crowds are all important parts of the experience. Whether you're saving up for the Cowboys-Eagles match in November or interested in attending a nearby college game, try to get in the stands and make some noise. 

5. Check Out a Local Fall Festival 

Believe it or not, North Texas is home to more than a few entertaining autumn festivals. From BBQ fests to chili cookoffs, we've got it all. AroundTownKids McKinney has compiled a thorough list of the various festivals in the area, so be sure to check a few out for yummy food, carnival rides, and much more. 

6. Take Pictures in a Pumpkin Patch 

If you don't Instagram a photo of a pumpkin patch, is it really even fall? I'm being facetious, of course, but there are more than a dozen impressive patches in the DFW area, all of which are pretty affordable to visit and full of picture-perfect scenes. Throw on some flannel and head to one of these pumpkin-filled locations for a quintessential autumn experience. 

7. Enjoy Traditional German Festivities

Never attended an Oktoberfest celebration? Well, now is your chance! Southlake, McKinney, and Fort Worth have festivals coming up where you can enjoy kegs of beer, barrel rolls, carnival rides, and family-friendly entertainment. Noch ein Bier, bitte!  

8. Go Apple Picking 

Henrietta Creek Orchard has more than 500 apple trees, as well as a pizza garden and peach trees. Scoop up some crisp apples for a healthy snack or whip up a cinnamon apple pie for a fall celebration. 

9. Attend a Balloon Festival 

For 38 years, Plano has been hosting a three-day event during the month of September that includes fireworks, delicious vendor food, handmade products, and of course, enormous hot air balloons. Enjoy a tethered ride in one of the balloons or simply walk around to see the various activities. The best part? Online pre-sale tickets are only $5! Click here to snag some. 

10. Check out Special Exhibits at Museums 

Several of DFW's museums will be hosting new exhibits over the fall months. The African American Museum will be showcasing Moving Cities, and the George W. Bush Presidential Library has extended the stay of Portrait of Courage. Additionally, The Dallas Holocaust Museum recently opened a new exhibit titled Fighting for the Right to Fight. Haven't found a chance to check out the Perot Museum yet? Go during their presentation of the brand new Maya Exhibit which showcases hundreds of artifacts. 


Know of other local events that will help ring in the new season? Leave suggestions in the comments below. Happy fall, y'all!