Whether you bleed burnt orange or cheer for the crimson and cream, this rivalry weekend is all about celebrating the epic Red River Rivalry between Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Boomer Sooners. The 2026 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 Rivalry has something for everyone. Check out our list of must-see local events leading up to and on the big day!

PRE GAME EVENTS

Bash Before the Clash

On Friday, October 9th, 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 2026

For the 2026 OU-TX Rivalry Game, OU Alumni are all set to take everyone on a ride on the SOULTRAIN EXPRESS on October 10, 2026! With a 30 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 10th. 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 Rivalry

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.

FAMILY FUN

Autumn at the Arboretum

Every autumn, the gardens come alive with one of Dallas’s most beloved seasonal traditions. More than 100,000 pumpkins, gourds, and squash fill the garden and this year, the Pumpkin Village embraces the theme Harvest Hues, reimagined through the lens of modern and contemporary artists including Basquiat, Rothko, Bourgeois, Mondrian, Escher, and Pollock.

State Fair of Texas

The State Fair of Texas and the Red River Rivalry go hand in hand. This game sites in the middle of the State Fair of Texas, which runs from late September through mid October. Enjoy the food, rides, and live entertainment while you’re in town. Come before the 2:00 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 Happies Hour. 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.

Backyard Dallas

Backyard in Deep Ellum offers ample space for you and your friends to enjoy the Red River Rivalry, 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!

Lawnie's

Lawnies Backyard in Henderson/Knox is your go-to outdoor hangout with an ice house vibe and plenty of space to kick back with friends. On October 10, the party keeps going after the Red River Rivalry with a postgame show you won’t want to miss.

Make sure to come back and check for updates closer to the Rivalry for any last minute parties, festivals and additional activities.