Whether you bleed burnt orange or cheer for the crimson and cream, this rivalry weekend is all about celebrating the epic Red River Showdown between Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Boomer Sooners. The 2024 Texas- weekend in Dallas is packed with events and festivities designed with fans like you in mind. From family-friendly fun to spirited game day excitement, the Red River Showdown has something for everyone. Check out our list of must-see local events leading up to and on the big day!

Pre Game Events

Red River Sing-off

Who doesn’t love a good sing-off? If you're in the mood to snap your fingers and sway to the rhythm, don’t miss the showdown between the UT Longhorn Singers and the OU Men’s Glee Club at the Galleria Mall's Level 1 Center Court on Friday October 11th at 12:00 pm. Grab your tickets and get ready for some musical rivalry at its finest!

Bash Before the Clash

On Friday, October 11th, the Texas Exes are hosting their annual Bash Before the Clash, kicking off at 7 PM with live music and wrapping up with the spirited Beat OU Pep Rally at 9 PM. Expect to see UT Alumni from the Marching Band, Cheer, and Pom Squad bringing the energy! Admission is free, but come hungry because Texas-style barbecue will be served up by an onsite food truck. If you're looking to upgrade your experience, VIP drink packages and indoor seating are available for purchase in advance. Don’t miss out on this pre-game tradition!

Pace's OU/TX All-Star Weekend 2024

For the 2024 OU-TX Rivalry Game, OU Alumni are all set to take everyone on a ride on the SOULTRAIN EXPRESS on October 11-12th, 2024! With a 28 year run, this is one of the longest-running, unofficial OU-TX Mini Reunion Watch Parties in Dallas. So grab your PACEPORT travel pack on their website for this weekend celebration worthy of attending.

GAME DAY

Texas Size Tailgate

Looking to be right in the middle of the action? Join the Longhorn alumni for what’s rumored to be the biggest Longhorn tailgate party around, happening inside Gate 5 at the State Fair of Texas on Saturday, October 12th. Two hours before kickoff, you can hang out with friends, jam to live music, enjoy a few beers, and savor some delicious breakfast tacos from TacoDeli. Get fired up and ready for another exciting year with the Longhorns!

Cotton Bowl Stadium, Dallas TX
Red River Showdown

Red River Showdown: This is the main event—the annual football game between the University of Texas Longhorns and the University of Oklahoma Boomer Sooners takes place at the Cotton Bowl Stadium in Fair Park at 2:30 PM at Cotton Bowl Stadium. If you are still searching for tickets there are only a few left.

FAMILY FUN

Autumn at the Arboretum

With a 19-year history, this year’s Autumn at the Arboretum promises to be a harvest of fun! Get ready to be amazed by pumpkins, gourds, and squash straight from Texas' very own pumpkin capital, Floydada. Plus, the garden will be bursting with 150,000 vibrant fall blooms. This year, the Pumpkin Village is embracing the theme “Texas Town,” inviting visitors on a journey through the rich tapestry of Texas history. It’s a seasonal spectacle parents and kids will love!

Grace for President

Grab the family and head over to Dallas Children’s Theater as they start their season with Grace for President, based on the book by Kelly DuPucchio. Follow the inspiring journey of Grace, a spirited young girl who decides to run for third-grade class president after discovering there’s never been a female president. Join Grace and her classmates as they navigate the election process, explore the meaning of freedom, and discover the importance of staying true to themselves. This heartwarming show is a perfect blend of fun and learning, celebrating the power of determination and courage.

State Fair of Texas

The State Fair of Texas and the Red River Showdown go hand in hand. This game sites in the middle of the State Fair of Texas, which runs from late September through midOctober. Enjoy the food, rides, and live entertainment while you’re in town. Come before the 2:30 PM kick-off or stay after the game to enjoy the food, rides, and live entertainment. Try some of their staple items Fletcher’s Corn dogs, funnel cake, or caramel apple. If you feel like being adventurous try some of the savory and sweet newest additions, hop on the fair rides, or play a few carnival games. And don't forget to take your photo app with Big Tex.

GAME DAY WATCH PARTIES

Texas Game Watching

The Texas Exes National Alumni Association have two game watch locations in Dallas to choose from. You can join them at the North location at the Longhorn Ice House in Northwest Dallas and their South location at Tequila Social off the Katy Trail. For everyone that RSVP’s they are giving you an extra chance to win great door prize while watching the game.

The Rustic

The Rustic in Uptown knows how to throw a watch party, join them for live entertainment from 3 p.m. until closing on Friday. On Saturday a watch party starts at 2:30 pm followed by an after-party. No reservations needed, but we recommend you get their early to grab a seat.

Happiest Hour

The Dallas Chapter of the Texas Exes will be hosting a fun filled watch party at their official watch party location, Happiest Hour. The festivities start at 1:30 with a DJ, food and drink specials, and prize giveaways. Registration is free we recommend you sign up early while seating lasts.

AT&T Discovery District

Get ready to turn up the game day excitement at the AT&T Discovery District in the heart of downtown Dallas! On Saturday, October 12th, grab your blanket or lawn chair and join us for the ultimate Texas vs. Oklahoma Game Day Party Showdown. With the game being broadcasted on the colossal Media Wall, you won't miss a single play. But that’s not all—this lawn party comes packed with live music, multiple screens, and plenty of drinks to keep the vibes high. It’s the premium Dallas tailgate experience with free parking in the garage with validation from Exchange Hall.

Bottled Blonde/Backyard Dallas

This two-story Italian eatery in Deep Ellum offers ample space for you and your friends to enjoy the Red River Showdown, complete with stunning views of the downtown Dallas skyline. This year’s event will feature games, prize giveaways, and all-day drink specials. Be sure to check their website for updates—there are some surprise celebrity performances in the works that you won’t want to miss!

Make sure to come back and check for updates closer to the Showdown for any lastminute parties, festivals and additional activities.