Weekend Road Tripper

Love Is In the Air....

Weekend Road Tripper — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 03:20:00 GMT

Trying to find something to do for your significant other for Valentine's Day? Here are a few offerings around the Metroplex...

Valentine Wine Trail
Feb 13 and 14, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tickets are $45.00 purchased early and $50 at the door. With each ticket you will receive 3 wine tastings and a food sampling at each winery, a crystal wine glass and premium bottle of Texas wine.

These wine trails are loads of fun so grab a few friends or a date and come out and see us. You can purchase your tickets by calling Cross Timbers at 817.488.6789 or online.

Dinner in the Diner
The Museum of the American Railway in Fair Park hosts an old-fashioned Valentine's Day dinner Feb. 12th & 13th. Designed to replicate the experience of dining
during the heyday of train travel, this romantic evening features a champagne reception, entertainment, and a dinner menu from the Santa Fe Railway. Dinner is
served on the fully restored 1937 MKT Dining Car. Call (214)428-0101 for reservations. This event always sells out.

Keith and Margo's St. Valentine's Celebration promises to be fun. This light-hearted mystery comedy theater features professional actors as "suspects" and a "detective" interacting with the audience as you help solve the mystery. Feb 13th, 7 p.m.-11:30 p.m.
BASIC PACKAGE: $94.00 per person. Includes reception, dinner, drink ticket, satirical mystery stage play with 1950's Theme, Disc Jockey for dancing, prizes, taxes, tips and a cash bar. Dance to the Golden Oldies of the 1950's!
DELUXE PACKAGE: Add a guest room & breakfast for an additional $130 per couple . Make reservations online.

The Richardson Symphony Orchestra is performing "Hot Classics for Valentine's Day" . The performance will be held on Feb 13th at 8 p.m. at the Eisemann Center, 2351 Performance Drive in Richardson. The Eisemann Center is less than a minute's walk from the Galatyn Park station on DART's Red Line.

Dallas Symphony at Morton Myerson
Celebrate Valentine's Day with the grandeur and emotion of Rachmaninoff's Symphony No. 2, with its lush harmonies and deeply passionate melodies. This program also includes one of the most remarkable musicians to have emerged in recent years - Macedonian pianist Simon Trpceski - who will perform Rachmaninoff's brilliantly written Piano Concerto No.1. Jaap van Zweden conducts.

Special Pre-Concert Wine Tasting
Ticket Package available on the evenings of February 12th & 13th, for more information please contact Jason Loft at 214-871-4054 or j.loft@dalsym.com.

Eternal Love
Sunday, Feb 14 3:30pm at Irving Arts Center, Irving, TX
New Philharmonic Orchestra of Irving concert featuring P.I. Tchaikovsky's Romeo and Juliet, G. Puccini's Act I Finale and H. Hanson's Symphony No. 2, “Romantic”.

Best of Broadway: Love Songs
Saturday, Feb 13 8:00pm at Uptown Theater, Grand Prairie, TX
They wowed our sold-out audience last season - wait until you see and hear what they have in store for us this year. Jill Blalock, Ann Sanders and friends return to the Uptown for a romantic evening of Broadway's best love songs.

Plano Symphony Orchestra's Valentine Gala
Saturday, Feb 13 6:00pm at Intercontinental Hotel, Malachite Room, Addison, TX
For a romantic evening unlike any other, the Plano Symphony Orchestra's annual Valentine gala will transport guests to Paris as they dine and dance the night away in the Malachite Room with Max Class and the Class Act.

Hyena's Comedy Club
Hyena's Comedy Club has local comedians as well as nationally famous ones. Their Valentine's Day package includes preferred seating for two, a champagne toast
for two, three long-stem roses, and chocolate-covered strawberries. Check their web site for their three locations and details about Valentine's Day entertainers.

MD Resort in Wise County, 15 minutes west of the Texas Motor Speedway
Lots of nice Valentine's packages at this bed & breakfast northwest of Forth Worth.

Valentine's Day weekend at Hotel St. Germain, Dallas
Thursday, Feb 11 7:00pm
A decadent, multi-course special Valentine’s Day menu will be served in our stunning candlelit dining rooms for four nights. Dinner on Feb. 11-12 is $95 per person, dinner Feb. 13-14 is $125 per person. The ultimate romantic indulgence can also include an unforgettable overnight stay in one of our seven fabulous suites.

Valentine's Day Brunch Buffet at The Zodiac
Sunday, Feb 14 11:00am to 3:00pm at Neiman Marcus Downtown Dallas, Dallas, TX
Love is served! We invite you and your loved ones to join us for a special brunch buffet as we open our doors on this very special day.Complimentary valet parking in the NM lot on Commerce Street. Reservations are strongly recommended.

NBA All Star Bash & Valentines Concert Featuring Peabo Bryson
Saturday, Feb 13 8:00pm at McFarlin Auditorium, Dallas, TX

Valentine's Day at Toulouse, Dallas
Thursday, Feb 11 6:00pm
Valentine's menu:
Potato Wrapped Oysters Rockefeller, Spinach, Lardons and Horseradish Cream, $12.95
Roasted Beet Salad, French Feta cheese, Blood Oranges, Olives, Arugula and Endive, $9.95
Whole Lobster Thermidor, White Wine, Shallots, Parmesan Gratinee, $29.95
Grilled Beef Tournedos (serves two) sauce béarnaise and half Maine Lobster $29

Valentine's Day at Bailey's Prime Plus (ALL locations)
Thursday, Feb 11 5:00pm to 11:00pm
Make it a truly memorable Valentine’s Day for that special someone in your life at Bailey’s Prime Plus in Cedar Hill, Fairview and at Park Lane in Dallas. Executive Chef Israel Voirin offers two ways to celebrate: make your selections from the regular full menu or choose the special Valentine’s Day three-course, prix-fixe menu at just $99 for two.

Vintage Valentine Tea
Sunday, Feb 14 2:00pm to 4:00pm at Irving Heritage House, Irving, TX
The tea recipes are being checked, the silver polished and the Irving Heritage Society Sweetheart is secretly selected as the organization prepares for their annual Vintage Valentine Tea. This event is a re-creation of the 1914 Valentine party . The Heritage House is located at 303 South O’Connor and is a Texas State Historical Landmark.

What could be more romantic that gazing at the stars with your honey?

Weekend Road Tripper — Sun, 31 Jan 2010 23:22:00 GMT

Bring your sweetheart to the Planetarium at UTArlington this Valentine's Day for a special couples only event, "Romancing the Stars".

This program takes a lighthearted look at the night sky and tells many stories of love and devotion that can be found there.

Showtimes are:
February 13th at 7pm and 9pm
February 14th at 3:30pm and 5pm

Tickets are $20/couple and must be purchased in advance. Call 817-272-1183 or email planetarium@uta.edu to for more information.

Price even includes a box of chocolates and rose for every couple!.

The Planetarium at UTArlington
Chemistry Physics Bldg.
700 Planetarium Place
Arlington, TX 76019

Calendar of Events - March 2010

Weekend Road Tripper — Sun, 31 Jan 2010 18:58:00 GMT

Mar. 3 - 7, 2010 - Dallas Auto Show (Dallas, TX)

www.dallasautoshow.org

Mar. 5, 2010 - Savor Dallas Arts District Wine Stroll (Dallas, TX)

www.savordallas.com

Mar. 5 - 7, 2010 - 36th Annual Fort Worth Rod and Custom Car Show (Fort Worth, TX)

www.txshowcar.com

Mar. 5 - 7, 2010 - 28th Annual North Texas Irish Festival (Dallas, TX)

www.ntif.org

Mar. 5 - 7, 2010 - Annual Dallas Home and Garden Show (Dallas, TX)

www.texashomeandgarden.com

Mar. 5 - 7, 2010 - 6th Annual Savor Dallas (Dallas, TX)

www.SavorDallas.com

Mar. 6, 2010 – Plano Civic Chorus Presents “Grand Music for Grand Spaces” (Plano, TX)

www.planocivicchorus.org

Mar. 6 - April 11, 2010 - Dallas Blooms (Dallas, TX)

www.dallasarboretum.org

Mar. 6 & 7, 2010 - Texas Outdoor Family Workshop– Learn to camp! (Tyler, TX)

www.tpwd.state.tx.us/outdoorfamily

Mar. 9, 2010 – John Mayer “Battle Studies Tour Concert” (Dallas, TX)

www.americanairlinescenter.com

Mar. 11, 2010 – Taylor Swift Live in Concert (Dallas, TX)

www.americanairlinescenter.com

Mar. 12 - 14, 2010 - All-Con Dallas (Dallas, TX)

www.all-con.org

Mar. 12 - 13, 2010 - Dolly Johnson Antique & Art Show (Fort Worth, TX)

www.dollyjohnsonantiqueshow.com

Mar. 13, 2010 - 2010 National Storm Conference (Colleyville, TX)

www.tessa.org

Mar. 13, 2010 – Cowtown Goes Green – (Fort Worth, TX)

www.stockyardsstation.com

Mar. 13, 2010 – 31st Annual Greenville Avenue St. Patrick's Day Parade (Dallas, TX)

www.greenvilleave.org

Mar. 13, 2010 – International Carnaval Dance Party (DFW Airport, TX)

www.dfwinternational.org/Carnaval

Mar. 14, 2010 - Plano Bridal Show (Plano, TX)

www.bridalshowsinc.com

Mar. 19, 2010 – Black Eyed Peas in Concert (Dallas, TX)

www.americanairlinescenter.com

Mar. 19 - 21, 2010 - The Country Peddler Show's Perfect Street of Shops (Arlington, TX)

www.peddlershow.com

Mar. 19 - 21, 2010 - 11th Annual Fort Worth Home Show (Fort Worth, TX)

www.texashomeandgarden.com

Mar. 19 -Apr. 4, 2010 - 51st Annual Azalea & Spring Flower Trail (Tyler, TX)

www.tylerazaleatrail.com

Mar. 20 - 21, 2010 - ArtScape at the Botanical Gardens (Dallas, TX)

www.dallasarboretum.org

Mar. 20 & 21, 2010 - Texas Outdoor Family Workshop– Learn to camp! (Pilot Point, TX)

www.tpwd.state.tx.us/outdoorfamily

Mar. 20, 2010 - Monster Energy AMA Supercross (Arlington, TX)

www.amasupercross.com

Mar. 27, 2010 - Walk With Me 2010 (Grapevine, TX)

www.ntx.easterseals.com

Mar. 27, 2010 – 27th Annual Easter Egg Scramble (Flower Mound, TX)

www.flower-mound.com

Mar. 27, 2010 - Walk MS: Dallas 2010 presented by Subway (Addison, TX)

www.walkMStexas.org

Mar. 27, 2010 – 23rd Annual Funny Bunny Festival (Lewisville, TX)

www.cityoflewisville.com

Mar. 28 – Apr. 10, 2010 - Dr Pepper Dallas Cup XXXI (Frisco, TX)

www.dallascup.com

Calendar of Events - February 2010

Weekend Road Tripper — Sun, 31 Jan 2010 18:47:00 GMT

Jan. 15 - Feb. 7, 2010 - Southwestern Exposition and Stock Show & Rodeo (Fort Worth, TX)

113th Annual Southwestern Exposition and Livestock Show & Rodeo www.fwssr.com

Feb.5 & 6, 2010 - SHEN YUN - (Dallas, TX)

www.shenyunperformingarts.org

Feb. 5 - 14, 2010 - Dallas Winter Boat Show (Dallas, TX)

www.dallasboatshow.net

Feb. 6, 2010 – David Cassidy in Concert (Grand Prairie, TX)

www.nokiatheatredfw.com

Feb. 11 - 13, 2010 - NBA All-Star Jam Session (Dallas, TX)

www.nba.com/jamsession

Feb. 12 - 14, 2010 - ConDFW Convention (Dallas, TX)

ConDFW, an annual literary speculative fiction (scifi/fantasy/horror/etc) convention www.condfw.org

Feb. 12, 2010 – Shaquille O’Neal Presents: All Star Comedy Jam (Grand Prairie, TX)

www.nokiatheatredfw.com

Feb. 13, 2010 – 13th Annual Mardi Gras Run (Dallas, TX)

www.captainhope.org

Feb. 13, 2010 – AllStar GospelFest Community HealthFair & Expo (Fort Worth, TX)

www.allstarurbanevents.com

Feb. 13 & 14, 2010 - Valentine’s Dinner Train & Evening Excursion (Palestine, TX)

www.texasstaterr.com

Feb. 14, 2010 – NBA All-Star Game (Arlington, TX)

www.nba.com or stadium.dallascowboys.com

Feb. 14, 2010 - 8th Annual Krewe of Barkus Parade (McKinney, TX)

www.downtownmckinney.com

Feb. 16, 2010 - Mardi Gras Celebration (Lake Dallas, TX)

www.lakedallas.com

Feb. 18, 2010 – Mariah Carey - The Angels Advocate Tour (Grand Prairie, TX)

www.nokiatheatredfw.com

Feb. 19 & 20, 2010 - 6th Annual Weekend Festival of Black Dance (Dallas, TX)

www.tbaal.org

Feb. 19 - 21, 2010 - 50th Annual O'Reilly Auto Parts AutoRama (Dallas, TX)

www.autorama.com

Feb. 20, 2010 - PBR Dickey's Iron Cowboy Invitational (Arlington, TX)

www.pbrnow.com

Feb. 20 - 21, 2010 - NCA All Star National Cheerleading Championship (Dallas, TX)

www.nationalspirit.com

Feb. 20 - 21, 2010 - NDA All-Star Nationals (Dallas, TX)

www.nda.varsity.com

Feb. 20 - 21, 2010 - Fort Worth Bridal Show (Fort Worth, TX)

www.bridalshowsinc.com

Feb. 20 - 21, 2010 - Texas Outdoor Family Workshop– Learn to camp! (Tyler, TX)

www.tpwd.state.tx.us/outdoorfamily

Feb. 21, 2010 – Lipizzaner Stallions on Tour (Dallas, TX)

www.americanairlinescenter.com

Feb. 23, 2010 – Jay Z on Tour (Dallas, TX)

www.americanairlinescenter.com

Feb. 23, 2010 - Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons (Fort Worth, TX)

www.basshall.com

Feb. 24 & 25, 2010 – Shecky’s Girls Night Out (Dallas, TX)

www.sheckys.com

Feb. 25 -28, 2010 - Sesame Street Live: 1-2-3 Imagine! With Elmo (Grand Prairie, TX)

www.sesamestreetlive.com

Feb. 25 – 27, 2010 – Texas World Dirt Track Championships (Fort Worth, TX)

www.texasmotorspeedway.com

Feb. 26 - 28, 2010 - All Texas Garden Show with Neil Sperry (Arlington, TX)

www.texashomeandgarden.com

Feb. 26 - 28, 2010 – 50s Dance Party (Dallas, TX)

www.dallassymphony.com

Feb. 26, 2010 – Winter Jam 2010 Tour (Dallas, TX)

www.americanairlinescenter.com

Feb. 27, 2010 - Cowtown Marathon (Fort Worth, TX)

www.cowtownmarathon.org

Feb. 27, 2010 - WWE Smackdown & ECW (Dallas, TX)

www.americanairlinescenter.com orwww.wwe.com

Feb. 27, 2010 – Boat Building School for Cardboard Boat Regatta (Arlington, TX)

www.riverlegacy.org

Feb. 27, 2010 – Advance Auto Parts Monster Jam (Arlington, TX)

www.stadium.dallascowboys.com for more information.

Feb. 27, 2010 - 9th Annual Wine Tasting (Dallas, TX)

www.djcc.us

Holiday Freebies!

Weekend Road Tripper — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 14:54:00 GMT

It’s holiday time and the days are filled with family and friends, parties and presents. What brings everything, and everyone, together is the food. During the free Technique Classes at Williams-Sonoma at Stonebriar Centre, participants can get some new ideas about improving holiday flavors. From the Thanksgiving turkey and the trimmings to holiday cookies, there’s something for everyone.

Classes will be held on select Saturdays and Mondays through Saturday, December 5. Technique Classes feature~

Thanksgiving Desserts on Saturday, November 14 at 9:30 a.m. and Monday, November 16 at 6:30 p.m.:
Class will feature how to prepare a tender, flaky piecrust plus recipes for an updated version of pumpkin pie and more favorites.

Williams-Sonoma Thanksgiving Classics on Saturday, November 21 at 9:30 a.m. and Monday, November 23 at 6:30 p.m.:
Last minute ideas for side dishes that are sure to become family favorites.

Enjoy the holidays with Le Creuset on Saturday, November 28 at 9:30 a.m.:
Class explains what great cast iron is, its versatility and when to use it.

Hosting a Cookie Exchange on Saturday, November 5 at 9:30 a.m.:
Tips on how to host a Cookie Exchange and some of Williams-Sonoma’s favorite cookie recipes.

Technique classes are offered at no charge, but reservations are required to reserve class space, which is available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Call 972.712.9455 or stop by Williams-Sonoma for information or to reserve a space. Williams-Sonoma is located on the lower level near the main entrance to Stonebriar Centre.

Stonebriar Centre is at Preston Road and SH 121 in Frisco. For directions to the shopping center, visit www.shopstonebriar.com
or call 972.668.6255.

Spying Lecture Series

Weekend Road Tripper — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 14:49:30 GMT

The Museum of Science and History at Fair Park is still continuing their "Science of Spying" by offering a great lecture series.

On November 12th, the guest speaker will be Oliver "Buck" Revell with his"A Law Enforcement View of Terrorism" discussion .

Drawing on 30 years experience with the FBI, Oliver "Buck" Revell will analyze terrorist acts of the past and discuss the challenges facing law enforcement responding to future threats.

December 3rd brings Jim Olson with "Spies Among Us: How America Is Losing Its Secrets"

Backed by 25 years of experience with the CIA,
current CIA Officer in Residence at Texas A&M's
George Bush School of Government and Public
Service, Jim Olson will discuss covert political
action, cyber threats to national security, and
current intelligence operations of foreign spies
inside our borders.

Check here for times, admission and more information.

Museum of Nature & Science
1318 South Second Avenue and 3535 Grand Avenue
Dallas, TX 75210

Movies for $2!

Weekend Road Tripper — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 14:24:00 GMT

The Planetarium at UTA in Arlington is showing movies for $2 a person! What a deal and this makes a great outing for the family!

Check the schedule, bundle up your kids and head out:

Over the Hedge:
Wed, Nov. 11 at 5:30
Fri, Nov. 13 at 5:30
Sat, Nov. 14 at 2:30

Up:
Wed, Nov. 18th at 5:30
Fri, Nov. 20th at 5:30
Sat, Nov. 21st at 2:30

Monsters, Inc:
Wed, Nov. 25th at 5:30
Sat, Nov. 28th at 2:30

Planetarium at UT Arlington
700 Planetarium Place | Arlington, TX 76019 | 817-272-0123

Calendar of Events - December 2009

Weekend Road Tripper — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 14:15:00 GMT

Nov. 12, 2009 - Jan. 3, 2010 - ICE! and Lone Star Christmas (Grapevine, TX)
www.gaylordtexan.com

Nov. 21, 2009 - Jan. 3, 2010 - The Trains at NorthPark (Dallas, TX)
www.rmhdallas.com

Nov. 26 - Dec. 31, 2009 - Prairie Lights Holiday Display (Grand Prairie, TX)
www.prairielights.org

Nov. 27, 2009 thru Jan. 3, 2010 - Holiday in the Park (Arlington, TX)
www.SixFlags.com

Now thru Dec. 21, 2008 - Snowflakes, Sugarplums, and SANTA! (Fort Worth, TX)
www.sundancesquare.com

Nov. 13 thru Dec. 27, 2009 - The Polar Express™ Train Ride (Palestine, TX)
www.texasstaterr.com

Now thru Jan. 4, 2009 - “The Polar Express: The IMAX® Experience” (Fort Worth, TX)
www.fwmsh.org

Dec. 3, 2009 - Parade of Lights (Grapevine, TX)
www.grapevinetexasusa.com

Dec. 4 - 7, 2008 - 14th Annual Christmas Nativity Display (Arlington, TX)
www.arlingtonnativity.org

Dec. 4 - 20, 2009 - Christmas On Main Street (Grapevine, TX)
www.grapevinetexasusa.com

Dec. 5 - 21, 2008 - The Nutcracker (Fort Worth, TX)
www.texasballettheater.org

Dec. 5, 2008 - A. W. Perry Homestead Museum’s Annual Old-Fashioned Christmas (Carrollton, TX)
www.cityofcarrollton.com

Dec. 5, 2009 - Capital One Bank Adolphus Children's Parade (Dallas, TX)
www.childrensparade.com

Dec. 5, 2009 - 18th Annual Jingle Bell Run/Walk for Arthritis (Fort Worth, TX)
www.fwjinglebellrun.org

Dec. 5, 2009 – Twinkle Lights Boat Parade on Lake Grapevine (Grapevine, TX)
www.grapevinetexasusa.com

Dec. 5 - 12, 2008 - The Littlest Wiseman, A Play Pageant of the Nativity (Fort Worth, TX)
www.thelittlestwiseman.org

Dec. 6, 2008 - Twinkle Light Boat Parade on Lake Grapevine (Grapevine, TX)
www.grapevinetexasusa.com

Dec. 6, 2008 - An Old English Christmas (Richardson, TX)
www.richardsonsymphony.org

Dec. 6, 2008 - Holiday at the Hall (Lewisville, TX)
www.cityoflewisville.com or call 972-219-EVENT

Dec. 6, 2008 - Dallas Farmers Market presents Holidays at the Market (Dallas, TX)
www.dallascityhall.com

Dec. 6, 2008 - Arlington Holiday Lights Parade (Arlington, TX)
www.arlingtonparadeoflights.com

Dec. 6, 2008 - Christmas on the Square (Weatherford, TX)
www.weatherford-chamber.com

Dec. 12 & 13, 2008 - The Plano Dance Theatre presents "A Holiday Collage!" (Plano, TX)
www.theplanodancetheatre.com

Dec. 13, 2008 - Holidays at the Hearth (Fort Worth, TX)
www.logcabinvillage.org

Dec. 13, 2008 - 18th Annual Christmas Boat Parade (Grand Prairie, TX)
www.gptexas.com

Dec. 13 & 14, 2008 - Fair Park Holiday Lights (Dallas, TX)
www.fairpark.org

Dec. 13 & 14, 2008 - KwanzaaFest (Dallas, TX)
www.johnwileyprice.com

Dec. 13 & 14, 2008 - Candlelight - Bask in the Glow of History (Dallas, TX)
www.oldcitypark.org

Dec. 13 & 14, 2008 - Fort Worth Train Show (Fort Worth, TX)
www.dfwtrainshows.com

Dec. 14, 2008 - Dallas White Rock Marathon (Dallas, TX)
www.runtherock.com

Dec. 19 & 20, 2009 - Trade Days USA (Fort Worth, TX)
www.tradedaysusa.com

Dec. 23 - 28, 2008 - The Nutcracker (Dallas, TX)
www.texasballettheater.org

Jan. 1, 2009 - Comerica Bank New Year’s Parade (Dallas, TX)
www.comericabankparade.com

2009 Texas State Fair thru Oct. 18th

Weekend Road Tripper — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 21:15:00 GMT

Helpful Links for making your way to and around the fair~

Digital edition of the 2009 State Fair of Texas Program

Map of the Fairgrounds

Daily Events Schedule

Fair Food Finder

HOURS:
State Fair of Texas exhibit buildings
10 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday
(closing at 9 p.m. on Tuesdays,
Wednesdays and Thursdays).

Midway opening times and closing times vary.
Call 214.565.9931 and press O to speak to
an information assistant.

TICKET PRICES:

• General Admission: $15
• Kids under 48” tall: $11
• Seniors 60 and over: $11
• Children 2 and under: Free
• Seniors 60 and over: Free every Thursday.
Compliments of HealthSpring and
Mature Texan Magazine
(Oct. 1, Oct. 8 & Oct. 15) .
• Garden Getaway: $18 Details

PARKING:

Self parking is available on official
State Fair lots for $10 per space.
Look for "Official State Fair Parking" signs.
Valet parking offered at Grand Ave. (daily) and Haskell/Parry ( Saturdays/Sundays only) for $25.

Spaces marked for the disabled
are located in each lot.
First come, first serve.
If spaces are filled,
an attendant will direct
you to the next available spaces.
The parking fee applies.

DART's GREEN LINE
opens September 14.

CHEVROLET MAIN STAGE - Outdoor festival-type venue with concerts all week long and headliners on weekends. FREE with State Fair admission. Sponsored by Chevrolet.

Qualified drivers get the keys from the carmaker in the CHEVY TEST DRIVE. Slip behind the wheel of an all-new Equinox, Traverse, Malibu, or Camaro for a test run in East Park Plaza. FREE.

The crowd-pleasing ILLUMINATION SENSATION offers lights, music, dancing waters and pyrotechnics along the recently refurbished 700-ft. Esplanade reflecting pool. Mattress Firm sponsors the FREE show nightly.

Visitors enjoy a bird's-eye view of Fair Park from the TEXAS SKYWAY. The aerial track stretches 1,800 ft. between two stations; gondolas accomodate strollers or wheelchairs. Sponsored by Telemundo Dallas.

Nighttime's the right time for the STARLIGHT PARADE - See illuminated floats, giant puppets and costumed characters each evening at 7:15 p.m. Sponsored by Kitchen Craft. FREE.

No spyglass needed for the madcap antics & breathtaking athleticism of the PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN DIVE SHOW.

Champion divers star in three shows weekdays + four weekend performances. In Gateway Plaza. FREE. Sponsored by McDonald's.

Check out the COTTON BOWL, seating 91,000 and home to Fair-time gridiron action: Grambling State v. Prairie View A&M, Saturday, Oct. 3 at 6 p.m. Texas v. Oklahoma takes to the field at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 17.

Clothes make the man, and in the case of 52-ft. tall BIG TEX, that's an under-statement. Only the best for Tex -- his clothing is provided by Dickies; his footwear is by Twisted X Boots.

Don't miss the MOBILE TOURS that roll into the State Fair throughout its 24-day run. Energy issues, health info, games, giveaways, technology and fun! The sponsored, mobile displays are located throughout the grounds.

Catch Dallas native and Nashville recording artist Jolie Holliday on the CHEVY TRUCK EXHIBIT STAGE. Her rock and country act will appear eight times daily, right next to Big Tex Circle. Sponsored by Chevrolet. FREE.

Sit down, relax and enjoy a wide array of food and beverages in Cotton Bowl Plaza, not to mention the sassy sounds of local trio Lantana. On the outdoor BUD LIGHT SOUND STAGE. Sponsored by Bud Light. FREE.

The BMX BIKE SHOW presents, up close & personal, the all-star 720 Action Sports team performing gravity-defying feats in the Thrillway. Co-sponsored by U.S. Air Force and Dr Pepper Cherry. FREE.

The CELEBRITY KITCHEN is the backdrop for this popular event in Creative Arts. Celebrity chefs demonstrate recipes of all kinds in daily shows. Sponsored by Good Housekeeping Research Institute on Tour Presented by IKEA. FREE.

The STATE FAIR AUTO SHOW, the biggest new car and truck show in the Southwest, features new models, concept vehicles and weekend collectors' rallies. FREE.

Texans love trucks, and the TRUCK ZONE is where to find 'em. Entertainment and new offerings from Chevy, Ford, Toyota, Nissan, GMC, as well as a few surprises. FREE.

CLASSIC CORRAL - A revolving display of vintage autos, motorcycles, Chris-Crafts and more. Meet owners and club members on weekends. Look for the corral fence, across Grand from the African American Museum.Sponsored by Forza Motorsport 3. FREE.

Find lots of animals to see and feed at the CHILDREN'S MEDICAL CENTER BARNYARD. Visit the popular nursery where sows, ewes, nanny goats and their young are spotlighted. Sponsored by Children's Medical Center. FREE.

Step right up! Imaginations soar at the SCHEPPS BACKYARD CIRCUS when young ones dress up in a make-believe show with lion tamers, tight-rope walkers, ballerinas & a host of circus favorites. Sponsored by Schepps Dairy. FREE.

Steve Martin's free-flight BIRDS OF THE WORLD showcases feathered friends from around the globe + a singing showstopper. Four shows daily in the Band Shell. Sponsored by Kroger Food Stores. FREE.

Smack dab in the exhilaration of the Midway is KIDWAY, featuring scaled-down rides for smaller Fair guests and all-around family-friendly fun. Sponsored by Time Warner Cable.

Take a seat & have a sip. The courtyard setting of the STATE FAIR OF TEXAS WINE GARDEN offers tastings daily. What better fit than jazz on weekends? Across from Creative Arts. Sponsored by Kroger Food Stores and GO TEXAN.

Looking for a staggering selection of drinks + yummy edibles in an air-conditioned environment? Find it in the COCA-COLA FOOD COURT, located on the back side of the Tower Bldg. Sponsored by Coca-Cola.

Check out T-MOBILE's GALLERIA & enjoy Texas-size savings on cool new phones and accessories. Get a Mobile Makeover to find the coverage you need at the price you want - and get your picture taken with Big Tex! In the Tower Bldg. Rotunda.

PIG RACES - There they go, snout-to-snout, down the stretch! Three times an evening, visitors can "wager" on these wiggly piglets as they send the sawdust flying. Pan American Arena. FREE.

The dirt flies as little buckaroos in chaps and hats jump on stick horses & go for it at the PEE WEE STAMPEDE. Daily, in the Ranch Arena. Sponsored by LEGO®. FREE.

GONE TO THE DOGS - Lou Mack's Jump! The Ultimate STUNT Dog Show promises action-packed daytime shows; afternoons belong to Pam Martin's "Dancing with the Dogs." Pan American Arena. FREE.

Native sons killed or MIA are commemo-rated at the TEXAS VIETNAM VETERANS MEMORIAL. The inscriptions include Congressional Medal of Honor recipients. Located in a contemplative spot near the front gates.

From Washington, D.C., see the famed UNITED STATES MARINE DRUM & BUGLE CORPS in afternoon shows at Marine Corps Square and in the evening parade. Sept. 25 - Oct. 11, excluding Wednesdays. Marine Corps Square is presented by Dick's Sporting Goods.

Zany games with prizes attract lottery fans to the TEXAS LOTTERY SHOW, a hot spot of Fairtime fun. Four shows daily. Sponsored by Texas Lottery Commission.

Circling the feet of the 52-ft. State Fair ambassador is the diminutive and delightful BIG TEX GARDEN RAILWAY.

Designer/landscape artist Paul Busse's miniature train display appeals to young and old alike. Located in Big Tex Circle. Sponsored by Oncor. FREE.

STATE FAIR FALL GARDEN EXHIBITION: Landscapers vie for Best of Show bragging rights; sculptors ratchet up the visual appeal with art scattered across Fair Park. Design + planting info is available each step of the way. FREE. Sponsored by The Home Depot.

The MIDWAY features 70+ attractions, including the overhead Texas SkyWay®, the 212-ft. Texas Star® Ferris wheel and a 1914 Dentzel carousel. Adrenaline rushes are guaranteed in the extreme ride Thrillway section. Definitely one of the Fair's most popular destinations.

LIVESTOCK BREED DISPLAYS: Cows, pigs, sheep and goats are showcased in breed displays on modern livestock production. Free exhibits located in Cattle Barn 1 and the Swine Building.

LITTLE HANDS ON THE FARM in "pretend" egg-gathering, planting, harvesting, and caring for a cow. At the end, they get play money for grocery shopping at the store. Sponsored by Bank of America, Dreyer's Ice Cream, AT&T and Wal-Mart/Sam's Club. FREE.

"WORLD ON A STRING" PUPPET SHOW: Master puppeteer John Hardman and his cast of marionettes perform throughout the day in Creative Arts' Showplace Theater. FREE. Sponsored by Skechers.

Guests line the fence when SPIRIT OF THE HORSE begins. Expert Robert Liner showcases his training methods and communication with horses. Daily, in the Ranch Arena. Sponsored by First Choice Power. FREE.

LIVESTOCK: Diligence and countless hours pay off for 4H and FFA exhibitors at the Youth Livestock Auction of Champions. Shows and sales offer an array of beef and dairy cattle, sheep, swine, goats, poultry and exotic breeds.

Watch and learn as cows from nearby farms demonstrate modern procedures in the MILKING PARLOR. Daily shows in Cattle Pavilion 1. Sponsored by Southwest Dairy Museum. FREE.

SHOP for the practical, the unusual & everything in between. Discover 300+ exhibit spaces in the Coliseum Market Place, Grand Place, Crafts Pavilion, Centennial Building (inside & out), Gateway Pavilion, Embarcadero, East Park/Gateway and the Pennsylvania Gate.

Synonymous with fairs everywhere, CREATIVE ARTS is where to find ribbon-winners in more than 1,100 categories, including canning, quilts, photography and crafts. Contest kitchens feature daily competitions and cooking demos. FREE.

BACKDOOR STAGE : The Killdares bring their Celtic rock back to the State Fair of Texas. Shows at 2, 3, 4, 5 & 6 p.m. Sponsored by WAHL Trimmers and T-Mobile. FREE.

Enjoy ethnic diversity as wide as the state with performances by 59 ethnic and cultural dance groups from across the state. Presented by the Texas Cultural Partnership on Saturdays and Sundays in front of the Hall of State.

MUNDO LATINO: Annual celebration of Hispanic culture, its history, traditional music, instruments and costumes in the Hall of State. The Mercado is a true shopping experience and is open daily. FREE.

Get set for the national touring company of Broadway's MARY POPPINS, with two of the original stars. The Dallas Summer Musicals production runs from Sept. 24 - Oct. 18, closed on Mondays. Remember, DART's new Green Line drops patrons just steps away from the Music Hall.

Searching for gold has never been so much fun! Visit the COLORADO MINING COMPANY in the Coliseum Market Place. Free 15-minute educational sessions scheduled at 11 a.m. and 1, 3, 5 and 7 p.m. daily.

Fair Park is home to an array of year-round MUSEUMS and attractions.

Music Seen: Rock 'n' Roll Photo-journalists will rock The Women's Museum with 100+ photos by Lynn Goldsmith and

Janet Macoska. Open daily, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. FREE.

"An Extraordinary Man with a Mighty Vision" -- a traveling exhibit and comprehensive look at the life of George Washington Carver -- makes a stop at the African American Museum. The show is developed by Chicago's Field Museum in tandem with Tuskegee University and the National Park Service.

Sleuths, listen up: The Science of Spying will feature how to detect liars, crack safes and find hidden clues. The new spy skills exhibition will be onboard at the Museum of Nature & Science, admission charged.

The new Rosine Smith Sammons Butterfly House and Insectarium opens at Texas Discovery Gardens, admission charged.

The first public garden in Texas to be certified 100% organic, TDG offers the native wildlife pond, scent garden, shade garden & heirloom garden free of charge.

See two legendary Union Pacific "work-horses" + more than 30 pieces of historic equipment, including a steam calliope, whistle display and a special, Fair-time exhibit at the Museum of the American Railroad. You can't miss 1942's towering #4018 "Big Boy."

Discover American history memorabilia at the Continental DAR House. Exhibits, artifacts, flag displays, patriotic videos and music are featured. The New Andrews Sisters perform during the State Fair of Texas. Free.

Don't forget the Dallas Aquarium (closed for renovations until 2010) will be "back in business" next year.

Spooky Doin's Around the Metroplex

Weekend Road Tripper — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 20:09:00 GMT

*Dallas Aboretum Great Pumpkin Festival* Autumn at the Arboretum features the Great Pumpkin Festival with thousands of unusual pumpkins in the gardens. Enjoy marigolds, chrysanthemums, and other fall blooms in the 66-acre garden next to White Rock Lake. Special events are planned throughout the month, such as ArtScape and a wine tasting event on opening weekend, a pumpkin taste-off Oct 4, Barkitechture -- unique dog houses by Dallas architects -- Oct 6-15. A pumpkin house, hay bale maze, hay rides, and more activities are provided on a daily basis. From I-30, take the Grand Avenue exit and go north. The Dallas Arboretum is about two miles down and on the right. Admission is $8 for adults, $7 for seniors (65+), $5 for children (ages 3-12), and free for children ages 2 and under. On-site parking $5 per vehicle. Open daily 9am-5pm. The Arboretum is located at 8525 Garland Road, Dallas, TX 75218. http://www.dallasarboretum.org/Events/AutumnFestival2009.htm
	*Harvest Moon Festival, Ganbury* October 17th & 18th, 2009 Over 100 Arts & Crafts Vendors Tractor Parade!, Children's Decorated Pumpkin Contest Children's Fun Area, Antique Engine &Tractor Show Carnival, The Pooch Parade, Decorated Pumkin Contest, Children under 10 Costume Contest, Cooking with Pumpkins Contest, Hot dog eating contest, Pie eating contest Call our office for details and booth information, 817-573-5299 http://www.granburysquare.com/
Mainstay Farm's Great Pumpkin Patch, Fort Worth During October, Mainstay Farm is home of the Great Pumpkin Patch (90,000 pounds of pumpkins last year) and is the Pumpkin Field Trip Capital for Fort Worth area schools. Just south of Fort Worth, TX, Mainstay Farm is a place for families to make a memory while experiencing a delightful blending of agriculture and hospitality. "Family Pumpkin Days" are Saturday October 17, 24 & 31 from 11am until 5pm. Admission $9 adults, $8 children 12-and-under. Bring your camera. http://www.mainstayfarm.com/index.html
	Owens Spring Creek Farm, Richardson The family farm for the Owens Company (think breakfast sausage) has been preserved in Richardson and is open for special events, birthday parties, etc. Owens Spring Creek Farm will host its annual Big Orange Pumpkin Farm from Sept 27 through the end of October. Kids can pick out their own pumpkin, pet the farm animals, romp in hay, or go on a hayride. Weekday admission is $6 and weekend admission is $7 (children under 2 are free); includes different items depending on weekday or weekend so see website for details. Their address is 1401 E. Lookout Drive, Richardson, TX 75082, and you may call them also for more information at (972) 235-0192. http://www.bobevans.com/ourfarms/springcreekfarm/pumpkin.aspx
*Big Orange Pumpkin Farm in Celina* Situated on a quiet farm on County Road 126 between U.S. Highway 380 and Farm-to-Market Road 455, the Big Orange Pumpkin Farm is a great place to spend an October day. Rick Kimbrell started the pumpkin farm in 1997 to create a place where you can witness what it's like to be on a farm. There are hundreds of pumpkins to choose from, hay bales, animals to feed, and a hayride to catch that is sure to entertain your entire family. Whether you are wanting to spend quality time with your children or just get away from the bustle of city life, the Big Orange Pumpkin Farm is the place to visit. http://www.bigorangepumpkinfarm.com/about.html
	*Pumpkins of the Prairie, Grand Prairie* Pumpkins on the Prairie celebrates its 7th year of fun and festivities for families and friends! And this year, the'll have even more pumpkins and more families and friends than ever before! All community is welcome! While everyone can pick their favorite pumpkins, children will also enjoy playing in the bounce house, running through the hay maze and playing games in our "Kid's Patch!" Plus, there are lots of picture taking opportunities with fall set-ups and family-fun hayrides! Extra special activities are planned for the weekends, including ... back by popular demand, the Great Pumpkin Launcher! (You've got to see it, to believe it!). Make sure you check out the "Special Events" page for full details on some of the fun activities we have planned. http://www.pumpkinsontheprairie.org/

*Pumpkin Patch of Flower Mound* Bob and Jan Balekian invite you to join the fun each fall at the Flower Mound Pumpkin Patch on the Double Oak Ranch starting October 1. You will find hundreds of pumpkins to choose from, cornstalks, hay bales, baked goods, and refreshments. Free admission. http://www.flowermoundpumpkinpatch.com/home.html
	*The Pumpkin Express* October 2, 2009 to Oct. 31, 2009 Everyday from 10:00 am til 6:00 pm Admission to the Pumpkin Patch and Train rides are $5.00 per person. PUMPKINS START AT $1.00 !!! Gourds and Indian Corn are also available to complete your holiday decorating needs. An array of squash and cooking pumpkins complete the fall seasons festive cornucopia. http://www.pumpkinexpress.com/index.html
*Pumpkin Patch, Irving* October 10th Pumpkins Galore for purchase and fun. Pony Rides, Hay Rides, Hay Bale Maze, Free food, Face painting, Giant slide, Pumpkin Carving contests and Show. FREE EVENT!!! 10am to 4pm. 1809 South Story Road, Irving, Tx 75060 817-726-9334 http://www.churchdonedifferent.com/
	*Autumn Days in Ennis Fall Festival, Ennis* 8th Annual Autumn Days in Ennis Fall Festival Saturday, October 17, 2009- 10 am- 5 pm This fall festival, sponsored by the Ennis Historic Downtown Merchants Association, is held annually the 3rd Saturday of October. It features arts/crafts, food, children's activities, live music, pumpkin decorating, fall photos, and more! It is a great family event. http://www.visitennis.org/Festivals/Autumn_Days.html
*Halls Pumpkin Farm, Grapevine* The Hall Farm dates back as far as 1929 when Jess Hall purchased his first piece of property. As the story goes, Jess started his farm with just a double-shovel plow and one mule. In 1930, he built his home that today still stands on the road that bears his name -Hall-Johnson. Through the years, Jess was noted for his tomatoes and cantaloupe – although he raised about everything, including corn, okra, peas, green beans, potatoes and watermelons. From about 1956-1970, Jess and his wife Ruth operated a dairy as well. The Halls had 2 children, Jessie Lou Hall Nelson and Marvin Hall. Today, Jessie Lou, her two children, their spouses and all of the grandchildren live on what is left of the farm. Located at the corner of Pool and Hall-Johnson Road, approximately 45 acres remain undeveloped. As one of the last working farms in the area, our family hopes to continue the tradition by maintaining the rural atmosphere. So, enjoy the cows grazing around the pasture and thank you for supporting our farm!!! Come take a look and see how the pumpkins grow!!! Vines are sometimes 12 feet long and leaves as big as Texas!!! Pumpkin picking is allowed, but please ask for assistance. http://www.hallspumpkinfarm.net/