
Gateway to Opportunity Luncheon
September 7 at 11:30 AM
Join us for an inspiring event featuring keynote speaker and former First Lady Laura W. Bush. Not only will she share her commitment to education, literacy, and human rights, but your attendance also supports Family Gateway, an organization founded by Mayor Annette G. Strauss in 1986 that provides crucial services for families and children facing homelessness.
Location: Omni Hotel Dallas
Ticket Price: Starting at $300
Details: www.familygateway.org/events
Oktoberfest at Watters Creek
September 8 – 10
Don your lederhosen and get ready for a weekend filled with festivities at Watters Creek at Montgomery Farm in Allen. In collaboration with The Lion & Crown Pub and the Allen Arts Alliance, revel in an array of 18 styles of Oktoberfest beers from local breweries, accompanied by live music, DJs, and traditional activities! Enjoy thrilling events like stein hoisting and authentic performances by German dancers throughout the weekend. Local breweries will be present for tastings and education.
Venue: Watters Creek at Montgomery Farm, US 75 at Bethany
Admission: Free. Cash or credit accepted for food and drink. Complimentary parking available.
More Information: www.watterscreek.com or call 972.747.8000
Plano Balloon Festival
September 22 – 24
Experience the magic of hot air balloons during the 38th InTouch Credit Union Plano Balloon Festival. This exciting three-day event features entertainment, fireworks, sky diving, and a plethora of food options. Watch as the balloons take flight on Friday at 6 PM, Saturday at 7 AM and 6 PM, and Sunday at 7 AM and 6 PM, conditions permitting.
Location: Oak Point Park, 2801 E. Spring Creek Parkway
Entry Fee: $5 per entry | $1 discount for seniors aged 65 and above
More Details:www.planoballoonfest.org
Texas State Fair
September 29 – October 22
Prepare to indulge at the Texas State Fair, a celebration of culture, agriculture, and all things Texas! Besides the iconic Midway and thrilling TX-OU game, attendees come for the irresistible food offerings, including this year’s Big Tex Choice Awards winners like Deep Fried Froot Loops and Beer Battered Beef Jerky.
Frisco Arts Walk at HALL Park
October 7, 12 PM – 7 PM
Experience creativity at the Second Annual Frisco Arts Walk held at HALL Park’s Texas Sculpture Garden. This free arts event showcases interactive performances, street musicians, and the opportunity to observe artists at work. This year, there will also be a Steinway Piano Red Carpet Performance where aspiring musicians can showcase their talent.
Sign up for the Steinway Piano Red Carpet Performances: http://www.signupgenius.com/go/409054dabaf2bab9-steinway
Venue: HALL Park, 6801 Gaylord Parkway, Frisco
Entry: Free admission, activities, and parking. Food truck vendors accept cash or cards. Valet service available for a fee.
More Info:friscoarts.org/frisco-arts-walk or call 972.810.1028
Texas Legends Draft Party
October 21
Join the excitement at the Texas Legends Draft Party for an early glimpse of the G-League action. Check texlegends.com for the timing and further details.
Where: Strikz Entertainment, 8789 Lebanon Rd., Frisco
Cost: Free
More Information: www.texlegends.com

Young Frankenstein at North Texas Performing Arts
October 27 – November 4
Get ready for a hilarious experience at Mel Brooks’ renowned musical comedy, Young Frankenstein, as it’s presented by North Texas Performing Arts. You’ll also have the chance to explore their new performance space at the Willow Bend Center of the Arts in Plano, featuring a sprawling 25,000 sq. ft area, also home to the Plano Children’s Theatre.
Tickets: Available one month prior to the premiere
More info: www.northtexasperformingarts.org/event/2017-pct-frankenstein

The 14th Annual Bulb & Perennial Mart
October 14, 8:30 AM – 3 PM
As autumn heralds a cool breeze and vibrant blooms, it’s the perfect time to explore and purchase quality bulbs, irises, perennials, and small shrubs for North Texas gardens. The Collin County Master Gardener Association will offer outstanding selections, including rare heritage bulbs and award-winning drought-tolerant perennials to keep your garden beautiful year-round.
Additionally, there will be a selection of tall bearded irises, handpicked for their charm and visual impact.
Knowledgeable volunteers will be available to guide visitors on the benefits and application best practices for these vibrant plants.
Presented by Whole Foods, this indoor event promises an enjoyable and informative day, rain or shine, where guests can connect with Master Gardeners.
Location: Myers Park & Event Center, McKinney
Cost: Free event with no sales tax on purchases. Various payment methods accepted. Proceeds support outreach and educational efforts in horticulture and water conservation throughout Collin County.
More Info: www.ccmgatx.org or call 972.548.4232
PARTNERS CARD Shopping Extravaganza
October 27 – November 5
Celebrating its 25th anniversary, the PARTNERS CARD initiative extends a fantastic shopping opportunity while supporting The Family Place. Under the leadership of Brynn Bagot and Allison Smith, cardholders receive a 20% discount at over 750 participating stores and eateries across DFW. With more than $17 million raised for The Family Place, which has offered counseling and essential services to thousands since 1978, this is an excellent chance to shop while making a difference.
More information: www.partnerscard@familyplace.org