When to Visit Dallas: A Seasonal Guide
With four seasons, a rich multi-cultural history, and a sprawling metroplex, there’s a lot to see and enjoy in Dallas year-round. Your travel timing can depend on your budget, the festivals you wish to partake in, and how well you tolerate the high heat and humidity that envelop the city during summer months.
Wondering when is the best time to visit Dallas? Here’s a comprehensive overview of seasonal trends and monthly highlights.
High Season: Air Conditioned Escapes (June to August)
Dallas may be hot in the summertime; however, this is when families are on vacation and hotel demand peaks. Expect higher rates and more competition for popular venues. Fortunately, you can enjoy the city’s extensive air conditioning options by visiting shops, restaurants, bars, museums, and live music venues.
Shoulder Season: Getting Outside (March to May, September to November)
With cooler, drier temperatures, spring and fall are ideal for enjoying Dallas’ parks, food trucks, pedestrian trails, and outdoor patios. These seasons provide a wonderful opportunity for activities like jogging along the Katy Trail or relaxing at Trinity Groves while enjoying the skyline.
Low Season: Beating the Crowds (November to March)
During the low season, you will find the best hotel prices with fewer crowds at popular attractions like Dealey Plaza. While the temperatures are cooler, you might want to bring along some cozy clothing for those chilly evenings.
January: Film Festivals and Celebrations
Start the New Year in Dallas with dry weather and a parade honoring Martin Luther King Jr., culminating in festivities at the African American Museum in Fair Park. Not to be missed is the KidFilm Festival, the oldest all-ages film festival in the country.
Key Events: MLK Parade, KidFilm Festival
February: Celebrate Mardi Gras
Dallas’s location between Gulf states and the Southwest brings a unique Mardi Gras celebration every February, featuring live country music at the Historic State Fairgrounds.
Key Events: Dallas Blooms, West End Mardi Gras
March: Celebrating the Irish American Community
March is designated for honoring the Irish American community in North Texas. With events that showcase Celtic music, traditional dancing, and horse shows, this is a highlight of the year.
Key Events: North Texas Irish Festival, St. Patrick’s Day Parade
April: Art Festivals
The mild spring weather promotes outdoor festivities, including Dallas Arts Month featuring gallery showings, art talks, and more. The Deep Ellum Arts Fest has transformed from a small block party to a major event with music, performances, and local art.
Key Events: Dallas Arts Month, Deep Ellum Arts Fest
May: Outdoor Festivals
As temperatures rise, Texans flock to events like the International Film Festival. Don’t miss the Cottonwood Arts Festival, a juried show that features artistic works and family-friendly activities.
Key Events: Dallas International Film Festival, Cottonwood Arts Festival
June: Culinary Experiences
June heats up with the Taste of Dallas, celebrating the vibrant restaurant scene. Additionally, Juneteenth events commemorate the emancipation of enslaved people in Texas.
Key Events: Taste of Dallas, Juneteenth, Reunion Lawn Party
July: Fireworks and Celebrations
Dallas has hosted a Shakespeare festival since 1972, and summer brings exciting performances. Fair Park’s Fourth of July celebration features water shows and fireworks.
Key Events: Shakespeare Festival, Fair Park Fourth
September: State Fair Extravaganza
Dallas hosts one of the largest and longest state fairs in the country, showcasing Texas culture through ranching events and educational experiences in Fair Park museums.
Key Events: Dallas Pride, Texas State Fair, Dallas Jazz Fest
October: Football and Music
Football season brings excitement to Dallas, with the famous rivalry of the Cotton Bowl. Additionally, fans honor Stevie Ray Vaughan at a concert celebrating his legacy.
Key Events: The Red River Showdown, Stevie Ray Vaughn Remembrance Concert
December: Festive Celebrations
December fills the city with holiday excitement through runs and festive events as the year comes to a close.
Key Events: Dallas Holiday Parade, BMW Dallas Marathon
