Spring break is here, but you're not going anywhere. Boo.
Not to worry, though. If your family's not jetting off to Europe, Breckenridge, Cancun, or Corpus, there's plenty to do right here in Dallas-Fort Worth. We've rounded up more than 50 top family-friendly special events, experiences, and attractions happening across North Texas from March 8-17, 2024. (Yep, it includes some St. Patrick's Day events, too.)
Want even more options? Lucky for you, we have a much longer list of the city's best events.
Special events and experiences
Jurassic Quest, March 8-10 at Fair Park
Jurassic Quest features over 50 ultra-realistic, life-size animatronic dinosaurs. Visitors can interact with these huge creatures, learn about them, and even ride a few. There are also huge T-Rex and Triceratops fossil digs where young paleontologists can uncover long hidden dinosaurs bones, the “Dino Bounce” area with several dinosaur-themed inflatable mazes, face painting, dino crafts, and more. The event takes place in Centennial Hall at Fair Park for one weekend only.
Meow Wolf Scavenger Hunt, March 7-17 in Grapevine
Grapevine's Meow Wolf interactive art experience, The Real Unreal, will feature a special exhibition-wide scavenger hunt that will include "interdimensional" spring cleaning. From March 7-17, guests of all ages can attempt a series of activities and mind-bending challenges in an attempt to tidy up different dimensions and win a special prize along the way. (Think: matching galactic lost socks in the enchanting Forest and playing broom hockey in the Neon Kingdom.) More information and tickets can be found here.
World of Barbie at Stonebriar Centre, Frisco
Kids and adults alike can step inside the pretty, pink world of Barbie at this interactive experience open at Stonebriar Centre on select days during spring break. Explore the Dreamhouse, chill out in the DreamCamper van, record a hit in Barbie's sound studio, and more. The attraction is open March 8-10 and 13-17. Get 30% off admission ($25.50-$51.50) using the code BARBIESPRINGBREAK30 by March 10. The attraction's last day is March 24. More information and tickets are here.
The Lone Star Hi-Railers presents Train-A-Palooza, March 9-10 at Grapevine Convention Center
The Lone Star Hi-Railers model railroad club will present its 10th annual model train show, Train-A-Palooza. Model train enthusiasts can engage with vendors who sell model trains of all gauges, toys, and accessories. Tickets are $2-$5; children under 10 are free with accompanying adults.
More train fun in Grapevine
Visitors can ride the Cotton Belt Route to the Historic Fort Worth Stockyards March 9-11. (Riders already in the Stockyards can ride the Trinity River Excursion.) On March 12-14 kids can become Junior Train Masters on hour-long excursions, and March 16-17 are two more excursions to the Stockyards.
Circus Vazquez, daily at Riders Field, Frisco
Circus Vazquez, America’s largest family-owned big top circus, brings its new 2024 production to Frisco starting March 15. Blending the modern with the traditional, Circus Vazquez presents entertainment that is fun for all ages. Acts include the Bone Breakers quartet demonstrating body-bending flexibility;. Duo Vanegas, daredevils who defy gravity on the Wheel of Wonder; the Liazeed Angels, a unique troupe of athletes that bring high-quality gymnastics to the circus ring; and Duo Marruffo presenting an athletic display of hand-balancing and strength. Tickets ($30-$50), schedule, and more information are here.
Circus Vazquez will be Riders Field in Frisco, March 15-April 1 Photo courtesy of Circus Vazquez
16th Annual Funky Finds Spring Fling, March 16-17 at Will Rogers Memorial Center
Funky Finds' 16th annual Spring Fling is a family-friendly shopping extravaganza in which visitors can shop from a selection of handmade and vintage items, from jewelry and accessories to upcycled books, home decor, and more. There will also be adoptable pets, a charitable raffle, and a chance to win handcrafted goods donated by each vendor. All charity proceeds benefit Saving Hope Animal Rescue and CASA of Tarrant County. Admission is free to the two-day event.
Spring Breakout at Great Wolf Lodge, Grapevine
Included with a spring break staycation are arts & crafts, character photos, dance parties, yoga classes, special food and drinks, and more. For rates, special discount codes, and more information, visit the website.
Texas Pinball Festival, March 15-17, Frisco
The 2024 Texas Pinball Festival will fill a ballroom at Embassy Suites Dallas – Frisco Hotel and Convention Center with more than 400 pinball machines, classic video games, and other game room attractions for attendees to play for free. Collectors, exhibitors, and hobbyists also will be selling parts, supplies, game room memorabilia, pinballs, video games, and more. Weekend passes are $75, tickets are $15-$50, and children under 5 are free. More information here.
Family attractions
Joya at Oran Good Park, Farmers Branch
The first-in-Texas playground that illuminates after dark opened in late January but had to close recently for repairs due to early wear and tear from crowds. Park personnel report that it'll be up and running again by March 11, in time for spring break. "The park will reopen March 11 with a few new rules to ensure everyone's safety while playing at Joya," the city's parks department posted on social media. Watch their Facebook page for updates.
American Girl
The doll store-restaurant-salon has just opened a new Dallas location at The Shops at Park Lane (8052 Park Ln. N.). This represents a relocation for the store, which had been at Galleria Dallas since 2007. The new 14,720-square-foot, two-level store has a new interior design, anchored by a floor-to-ceiling dollhouse feature and a reimagined full-service cafe with private party rooms, plus a new salon where kids can get haircuts, mini manicures, and ear-piercing.
Funbox: The World's Biggest Bounce Park at Stonebriar Centre, Frisco and North East Mall, Hurst
Funbox is a unique entertainment and amusem*nt experience consisting of 25,000 square feet of inflatable fun. It is filled with 10 play zones, including the Tumble Temple, Marshmallow Mountain, Gumball’s Gallop, and an obstacle course. Admission ($19-$24) is good for an 80-minute session. Open most days; tickets and more information for both locations are at the links above.
With 10 entertainment zones, Funbox is fun for everyone. Photo courtesy of Funbox
Geo Deck Reunion Tower, downtown Dallas
The Reunion Tower attraction in downtown Dallas will host special "Spring Break at the Top" family workshops and activities. More information, schedule, and tickets are here.
Six Flags Over Texas, Arlington
The park's spring break hours, March 9-17, will be 11 am-9 pm. "Scream Break" will take over the Texas section of the park March 9-16 from 6-9 pm, featuring a Zombie DJ, a brand-new Polynesian-themed haunted house, fire dancers, and more. More information on Scream Break is here.
Historic Fort Worth Stockyards
From March 7-March 17, the Fort Worth Stockyards will host spring break family-fun with its annual "Spring Breakaway Stockyards Style." Each day, from 10 am-8 pm, visitors will find live music, lawn games, giveaways, and more. Kid-friendly activities include daily cattle drives, rodeos, horseback riding along the Trinity River, line dancing at Billy Bob's, Cowtown Cattlepen Maze, the Barnyard Petting Corral, mini train rides, and more. Find more information here.
Legoland Discovery Center, Grapevine
The "bricktastic" attraction at Grapevine Mills will have special spring break hours, 9 am-8:30 pm, March 8-16. Find activities, tickets, and more information here.
Peppa Pig World of Play, Grapevine
While families await the arrival of the Peppa Pig theme park in North Richland Hills, they can head to Grapevine Mills for special break break hours, 10 am-7 pm, March 11-16. Tickets must be purchased online; walk-ups will not be available. More information here.
Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark, Grand Prairie
The family-friendly waterpark will have special spring break hours, 8:30 am-9 pm, March 9-17. Activities, rates, and more are here.
Bolder Adventure Park, Grand Prairie
The new 66,000-square-foot adventure park at Epic Central entertainment district in Grand Prairie gives kids the chance to explore and play according to their age and experience level. The littles can navigate through adventure nets or try ice skating; the bigs can complete a ropes course or rock climb. Admission is based on adventure level. Special spring break hours will be 9 am-10 pm March 11-16, and there's a brand new hotel nearby for those who want to make a staycation of it. More information and tickets are here.
Gardens, parks, and nature centers
Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden
Spring Break falls during Dallas Blooms: A Picture’s Worth a Thousand Wordsfeaturing500,000 spring blooming flowers from more than 120 varieties. From March 11-15, the garden will stay open until 7 pm. There's also daily spring break programming including cooking classes at A Tasteful Place, storytimes for little ones, STEM activities for kids, and more. Find a complete rundown of events here.
Fort Worth Botanic Garden presents Butterflies in the Garden
Adults and kids alike can witness the transformation of nature and marvel at the sight of brilliantly colored living jewels fluttering in the Rainforest Conservatory of Fort Worth Botanic Garden during Butterflies in the Garden, the largest exhibit of live, exotic butterflies in North Central Texas. Free-$12 for exhibition only; garden admission is separate. The FWBC will also have daily workshops for families during spring break; topics include dinosaurs, weaving, and more. More information is here.
Tulipalooza, Waxahachie
Tulipalooza's 5th Annual tulip festival returns March 8-17 at Waxahachie's Getzendaner Memorial Park. Tulipalooza imports hundreds of thousands of tulip bulbs from Holland, which are then planted and ready for guests to tiptoe through and pick their own to take home. It's not only a floral extravaganza but a fundraiser for 11 local charities. Admission runs $5-$15 (kids under 5 are free), and hours are 10 am-7 pm daily. More information and tickets are here.
Texas Tulips is now open in Pilot Point. Texas Tulips/Instagram
Texas Tulips, Pilot Point
This pick-your-own tulips field north of Dallas is open daily, 10 am-8 pm, rain or shine. Visitors pay a $6 entrance fee, pick tulips, and take them home in a pretty bouquet for $2.50 per stem. There are also picnic tables on site, a hay maze for kids, and more. Keep up with the tulip selection and more on the website.
Lavender Ridge Farms, Gainesville
The expansive flower farm north of Dallas-Fort Worth is now open on weekends, 9 am-5 pm Friday-Sunday. While it's not yet lavender season, visitors can pick daffodils and purchase them for $1 per stem. They can also shop for plants and flowers in the garden center, purchase lavender products in the on-site shop, and enjoy lunch in the pretty outdoor cafe (10:30 am-3:30 pm Friday-Sunday). Watch for upcoming events and flowers available on the website.
Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge
Families can take part in the Fort Worth Nature Center's Bison Feeding Hayrides and Canoe Fest during spring break week. Check the website for more details.
Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary
Spring Break at the Heard in McKinney will bring bird tours and night owl hikes, nature strolls, family campouts, and more. Check the website for more details.
Klyde Warren Park
Dallas' premier urban park presents Spring Break in the Park, featuring free family-friendly concerts, movies, dance lessons, story times, fitness classes, a silent disco, and more. Check the website for more details.
Concerts, theater, and dance shows
The Hopeful Theatre Project presents Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, March 8-10 at Kalita Humphreys Theater
In the beloved Disney musical Beauty and the Beast, a young woman in a provincial town meets a terrifying Beast who is really a handsome prince trapped under the spell of an enchantress. If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will end and he will be transformed into his former self. But time is running out. The production will have four performances, March 8-10, at Kalita Humphreys Theater. Audiences can enjoy a special Tea Time with Belle and Friends party for children 13 and under, which will take place at the theater before the Sunday matinee. More information here.
John Williams-themed concerts
John Williams has composed the most famous movie scores of all time. Both of DFW's major orchestras are presenting family-friendly concerts of his works that book-end spring break. The Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra will present a "John Williams Celebration," March 8-10 at Bass Hall. It will include music from Hook, Superman, Schindler’s List, Harry Potter, Star Wars, and more. Then the Dallas Symphony Orchestra will present "A Night at the Movies - Music of John Williams," including pieces from Superman, Jurassic Park, Indiana Jones, Harry Potter, The Patriot, Jaws, E.T., Star Wars, and more, March 15-17 at the Meyerson Symphony Center.
Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra presents "Beethoven Lives Upstairs," March 9 at Bass Hall
The "Beethoven Lives Upstairs" theatrical symphony concert is an imaginative way to introduce young audiences and their families to the life and music of Ludwig Van Beethoven. The concert features more than 25 excerpts of Beethoven’s music, including the Moonlight Sonata, Fur Elise, and the great Fifth and Ninth Symphonies. The 50-minute morning performance is recommended for audiences aged 6 and up. There is one performance, 11 am March 9.
Dallas Opera presents The Billy Goats Gruff, March 10 at Winspear Opera House
Three little goats are heading home after a day of play, but a mean billy goat blocks their way and steals one of their toys. How will our heroes get across the bridge and beat the bully once and for all? The special performance, at 2 pm March 10, is sung in English and designed for audiences aged 3 and up.
The national tour of Annie comes to the Winspear Opera House. Photo by Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade
Broadway at the Center presents Annie, March 14-17 at Winspear Opera House
Holding onto hope when times are tough can take an awful lot of determination, and sometimes, an awful lot of determination comes in a surprisingly small package. Little Orphan Annie has reminded generations of theater goers that sunshine is always right around the corner, and now the best-loved musical of all time is set to return in a new production - just as you remember it and just when we need it most. There will be evening and matinee performances, March 14-17.
Dallas Symphony presents "Danny Elfman’s Music from the Films of Tim Burton," March 15-17 at Meyerson Symphony Center
Composer Danny Elfman and visionary Hollywood filmmaker Tim Burton have created a unique concert experience, lending music and visuals to celebrate the 25-year partnership of two of Hollywood’s top creators. This live concert features Danny Elfman live along with famous Tim Burton film scores being brought to life on stage by orchestra, enhanced by visuals on the big screen of original sketches, drawings, and storyboards. The program includes music from Beetlejuice, Batman, Edward Scissorhands, The Nightmare Before Christmas, Alice In Wonderland, Frankenweenie, Charlie And The Chocolate Factory, Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure, and more. There will be one performance per day, March 15-17.
Dallas Children's Theater presents Life Doesn't Frighten Me: I Am Fearless Royalty, March 16-30 at Dallas Children's Theater
“Shadows on the wall / Noises down the hall / Life doesn't frighten me at all” begins Dr. Maya Angelou’s famous poem which serves as the foundation for Paige Hernandez’s Life Doesn't Frighten Me: I Am Fearless Royalty. The play, co-commissioned by Children’s Theatre of Charlotte, Dallas Children’s Theater, The Rose Theater of Omaha, and Children’s Theater of Madison, stars four heroes as they conquer their fears using heart, soul, body, and mind. With original music from Grammy-nominated Kris Funn and themes inspired by actual students across the country, this show is a moving multicultural performing arts experience. Performances will take place March 16, 17, 23, and 30.
TITAS/Dance Unbound presents Parsons Dance, March 15-16 at Moody Performance Hall
Known for its energized, athletic, and joyous style, Parsons Dance is internationally renowned for creating and performing contemporary American dance. Their bold works and distinctive style have solidified them as one of the world’s leading dance companies. Works, like Caught, one of the world’s most famous solos, exemplify this company’s innovation and huge audience appeal. Parsons Dance is always a favorite that is sure to thrill audiences with their amazing energy and stunning dancers. There are two performances, March 15-16.
Dallas Black Dance Theatre presents "Dancing Beyond Borders," March 16 at W. E. Scott Theatre at Arts Fort Worth
DBDT: Encore! transcends borders and boundaries in a display of contemporary modern dance. Audiences will embark on a journey that explores the intersection of grace, athleticism, and artistry. There's just one performance of this Fort Worth show, at 7:30 pm March 16.
Eisemann Center for the Performing Arts presents Cenicienta, March 17 at Eisemann Center for Performing Arts
Ten-year-old Belinda is a budding poet and loves to tell stories, but when she’s stuck in the basem*nt preparing for a party upstairs that her stepmother and stepsisters will host, she’ll have to get creative. It’s a story within a story; Belinda lives out her version while also re-enacting the classic tale of Cinderella. But to do that, she must learn to stand up for herself and take charge of her life and dreams. This captivating bilingual one-woman performance is a modern spin on the beloved fairy tale and tackles cultural heritage, family, and the power of language. There's one show, at 2 pm March 17.
Sports and recreation
Trinity River Water District Flyfest, March 9, Fort Worth
Called "a celebration of urban fishing on the Trinity River," Flyfest allows both beginning and expert anglers to wade in the river and fly fish for 1,800 pounds of Rainbow Trout and 3,000 Texas native fish. The all-ages festival also includes food trucks, wine and beer, cooking demonstrations, kids' activities, and more. The one-day-only event takes place 9 am-5 pm March 9 along the Clear Fork waters of the Trinity River near the intersection of Bryant Irvin Road and River Park Drive, Fort Worth. Admission is free.
Dallas Jackals home opener, March 10 at Choctaw Stadium
The Dallas Jackals, North Texas' still-new Major League Rugby team, will face off against the San Diego Legion in their home opener at Choctaw Stadium in Arlington (the former home of the Texas Rangers). The Jackals have added several standout rugby players this year, and will also debut the Dallas Jackals Dancers. Tickets, schedule, and more information are available on the team's website.
The Dallas Jackals pro rugby team host their home opener March 10.Photo courtesy of Dallas Jackals
The American Women’s Basketball Championships, March 9-13 at Dickies Arena
For the fourth consecutive year, The American Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championships will be contested at Dickies Arena. It kicks off on Saturday with the Women’s Championship, featuring all 14 teams in the conference. One of the top seeds will be the University of North Texas Mean Green, which has already established a team record for most wins in a single season. The Women's Championship runs through Wednesday, which will the be the first day of the Men’s Championship. For complete schedule, tickets, and information, go here.
The American Men’s Basketball Championships, March 13-17 at Dickies Arena
The American Athletic Conference's Basketball Championships will continue its two-week stay at Dickies Arena with the men's tournament. Local teams SMU and North Texas are middle of the pack in the conference in the regular season, but anything can happen during March Madness. For complete schedule, tickets, and information, go here.
Museums
Dallas Museum of Art
DMA’s 2024 SpringBreak Family Fun, inspired by the exhibition The Impressionist Revolution from Monet to Matisse,will bring events all week. Aspiring artists and mini-Monets can take part in art making, family tours, special community guests, gallery activities, and more - all for free. Check the website for more information.
Dallas Museum of Art presents "The Impressionist Revolution from Monet to Matisse." Photo courtesy of Dallas Museum of Art
Perot Museum of Nature and Science
The Dallas museum - including cafe and shop - will be open extended hours over spring break, 9 am-5 pm, March 11-19. There are free STEM activities, food trucks on the plaza, 3D films, and, of course, interactive exhibits. More information here.
Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum
The downtown Dallas museum presents it special exhibition, "Walk this Way: Footwear from the Stuart Weitzman Collection of Historic Shoes" all week, including Tuesdays - a day it is normally closed. Additionally, from March 11-15, the museum will offer a speaker series that includes the testimonies of Holocaust survivors, refugees, and hidden children, as well as second-generation survivors. Guests can choose between virtual or in-person attendance, and there is no additional cost to hear the speakers. More information here.
Nasher Sculpture Center
Older kids and those allowed to stay up late can head to 'til Midnight at the Nasher on Friday, March 15. The event, beginning at 6 pm, will include Wolfgang Puck Catering, food and beverages for purchase, and grab & go snacks, live music by Manhattan Band By Jordan Kahn Music Company, and - starting at 9:30 pm - a screening of the blockbuster movie Barbie (rated PG-13). Admission is free. More information is here.
Amon Carter Museum of American Art
Spring Break at the Carter features a week of free and fun activities for the family, including gallery games, art-making activities, creativity challenges, and more. They take place 1-4 pm Tuesday-Friday. Find the full lineup here.
Sid Richardson Museum
The downtown Fort Worth Western art museum is hosting a Spring Break Open Studio and Family Workshop. All ages can drop into the studio 1-4 pm Monday-Friday. It's free and no registration is required.
Kimbell Art Museum
The museum hosts a Spring Break Art Extravaganza, featuring free drop-in activities inspired by the artworks at the Kimbell. Events will take place inside and outside the museum. For a full schedule, go here.
The Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth
ART Break at the Modern, March 14-18, will offer kids under 18 free admission, family programming, conversations with docents, and more. Cafe Modern will serve hot dogs, chips, and lemonade on Monday, complimentary for kids (11 am-2 pm while supplies last). For more information, visit the website.
Fort Worth Museum of Science and History
Special spring break hours, March 11-15, will be 10 am-5 pm. Interactive exhibits that cater to all ages include “Black Cowboys: An American Story” and “Cowtown Takes Flight.” Guests can also immerse themselves in planetarium shows, exploring the wonders of the upcoming total solar eclipse with “Totality Over Texas.” More information and tickets here.
St. Patrick’s Day-related events
, March 16 along Greenville Avenue
The annual Dallas St. Patrick’s Parade & Festival is the largest St. Patrick’s Parade in the Southwest. Starting at Greenville Avenue and Blackwell Street and ending at SMU Blvd. and Central Expressway, the parade draws upwards of 125,000 people along the two-mile route to see more than 90 floats, 1,700 participants, bands, and more.
Cowtown Goes Green, March 16 in the Fort Worth Stockyards
The family-friendly extravaganza will include live music, festive food and drinks, dancers and cloggers, armadillo races, lawn games, two rodeos, and an Irish-Western parade at 4 pm.
Cowtown Goes Green takes place in the Fort Worth Stockyards on March 16. Photo courtesy of Fort Worth Stockyards
St. Paddy's Pickle Parade & Palooza, March 16, Mansfield
Mansfield (where Best Maid pickles originated) touts itself as the pickle capital of Texas. The city will celebrate the title with its annual St. Patrick's weekend parade featuring dozens of floats and marching groups, and the stars of the event, The Pickle Queens. The day also includes a 5K, live music (Cory Morrow is the headliner), pickle eating, kids activities, and more. The parade begins at 12 noon.
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Alex Bentley contributed to this story.
