Top 10 Fort Worth Festivals You Have to Attend This Year
Fort Worth Festivals
Fort Worth isn’t just “Where the West Begins” — it’s where some of the best festivals in Texas happen all year long. Whether you’re a foodie, music lover, art enthusiast, or just someone who loves a good excuse to get out and mingle, Fort Worth’s festival scene has something for you.
Here’s our roundup of the Top 10 Fort Worth Festivals You Absolutely Can’t Miss This Year — bookmark this list and start planning now!
Quick Festival Comparison Chart
| Festival | Dates | Location | Price Range | Kid-Friendly? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo | Jan–Feb | Dickies Arena & Will Rogers Complex | $$–$$$ | ✅ |
| Main Street Arts Festival | April | Downtown Fort Worth | Free | ✅ |
| Mayfest | May | Trinity Park | $–$$ | ✅ |
| Fortress Festival | Spring (varies) | Cultural District | $$ | ⚠️ |
| Fort Worth Food + Wine Festival | Spring | Multiple Locations | $$$ | ❌ |
| Oktoberfest Fort Worth | September | Panther Island Pavilion | $$ | ⚠️ |
| Day of the Dead Festival | October | Downtown Fort Worth | Free | ✅ |
| Lone Star Film Festival | November | Sundance Square | $–$$ | ⚠️ |
| Fort Worth Food Truck Festival | Spring & Fall | Panther Island Pavilion | $ | ✅ |
| Panther Island Pavilion Summer Music Series | Summer | Panther Island Pavilion | $–$$ | ⚠️ |
✅ = Great for kids | ⚠️ = Kid-friendly in parts | ❌ = Adults only
1. Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo
January–February | Dickies Arena & Will Rogers Complex
This iconic event is a Texas tradition. Experience professional rodeos, livestock shows, parades, and a full carnival midway.
Local Insider Tip: Skip the main lot — park at Farrington Field and take the free shuttle.
2. Main Street Arts Festival
April | Downtown Fort Worth
One of the largest art festivals in the nation, the Main Street Arts Festival turns downtown Fort Worth into an open-air gallery.
Local Insider Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid the afternoon crowds and get first pick on art pieces.
3. Mayfest
May | Trinity Park
Fort Worth’s family-friendly festival features carnival rides, live entertainment, and food vendors.
Local Insider Tip: Bring cash — some small food and drink vendors don’t accept cards.
4. Fortress Festival
Spring (Dates Vary) | Cultural District
Fortress Festival is Fort Worth’s answer to Austin City Limits — a multi-stage music festival with indie, hip hop, and electronic artists.
Local Insider Tip: Use rideshare — parking near the Cultural District fills fast during big events.
5. Fort Worth Food + Wine Festival
Spring | Multiple Locations
This multi-day festival highlights the best chefs and restaurants in the region.
Local Insider Tip: Buy tickets as soon as they go on sale — many events sell out months in advance.
6. Oktoberfest Fort Worth
September | Panther Island Pavilion
Three days of beer, bratwurst, polka, and dachshund races.
Local Insider Tip: Go Thursday — the first night is less crowded, and beer lines are shorter.
7. Day of the Dead Festival
October | Downtown Fort Worth
A vibrant celebration with parades, altars, and performances.
Local Insider Tip: Arrive early to see the altars before crowds gather — they’re stunning and perfect for photos.
8. Lone Star Film Festival
November | Sundance Square
A five-day festival featuring independent films, documentaries, and industry panels.
Local Insider Tip: Buy a festival pass — it’s cheaper than individual tickets if you plan to see more than two films.
9. Fort Worth Food Truck Festival
Spring & Fall | Clearfork or Panther Island Pavilion
Dozens of food trucks serve everything from BBQ to fusion tacos.
Local Insider Tip: Get there early to beat the lines — the most popular trucks run out of their best dishes by mid-afternoon.
10. Panther Island Pavilion Summer Music Series
Summer Months | Panther Island Pavilion
A unique concert experience by the Trinity River — you can float in a tube while you listen.
Local Insider Tip: Bring your own tube or rent one early, as rentals can sell out quickly on hot weekends.
Pro Tips for Attending Fort Worth Festivals
Arrive early — parking fills up fast, especially downtown.
Bring the essentials: sunscreen, hat, comfy shoes, refillable water bottle.
Check social media for maps, set times, and discount codes before heading out.
Why These Festivals Matter
Fort Worth festivals are more than just events — they’re a reflection of the city’s spirit, culture, and sense of community. Whether you go for the food, the music, the art, or the people-watching, you’ll leave with a deeper love for this city.
