North Texas is bustling with a diverse array of events this week, ranging from spy thrillers and creative paint parties to vibrant Day of the Dead festivities and live music at the State Fair.
Now through Sunday, November 1 – The darkly humorous spy thriller AJAX, penned by Habib Yazdi and directed by Kareem Fahmy, delves into the CIA’s activities in Tehran during 1953 and the repercussions that have influenced Middle Eastern politics for the last seven decades. This thought-provoking film is showing at the Amphibian Stage, located at 120 S Main St, Fort Worth. Tickets are priced between $29 and $67, with a pay-what-you-can option designed to make theater accessible to everyone. For more information, visit AmphibianStage.com.
Thursday, October 15 – The Emerald City Cannabis Lounge at 937 Woodward St, Fort Worth, is hosting a Murder Mystery Paint Party from 7 PM to 9 PM. Participants will engage in a thrilling experience where they become suspects in the mysterious death of a renowned artist during an exclusive gallery event. The fee is $38, which includes all necessary painting supplies and guidance, and the event is strictly for those aged 21 and over. Be sure to bring an ID for security. Legal THC beverages and other products will also be available for purchase. Reserve your spot at occ.sn/mMrnNCZZ.
Saturday, October 17 – In anticipation of Dia de los Muertos, Sundance Square will host Catrina Fest in Sundance Square Plaza from noon until midnight. Attendees are encouraged to showcase their best Day of the Dead attire and makeup in the Catrina Contest. The event will feature food trucks, live music, and various vendors, all free to attend.
Starting at 1 PM, the fifth annual Riot Girl Fest will be held at Anderson Eatery & Distillery, located at 410 N Bell Av, Denton. This free, all-day event is designed for all ages and will highlight ten local queer and femme bands, five North Texas nonprofits, and twenty local artists and vendors. Founder Jennifer Zooki Sturges emphasizes the importance of accessibility, aiming to inspire the next generation of Riot Grrrls. Live performances will include acts such as 4Factorial, Boof, and Side Chicks.
Saturday and Sunday, October 17-18 – The artist formerly known as Guitarlington returns under a new name and venue: the Amigo Guitar Show at the Mesquite Convention Center. Open from 10 AM to 5 PM on Saturday and from 10 AM to 4 PM on Sunday, this event invites attendees to buy, sell, or trade musical instruments while exploring hundreds of vendor booths and meeting local and national musicians. Admission is $25 for adults, while children aged 11 and under can enter for free with an adult. More details can be found at AmigoGuitarShows.com.
Tuesday, October 20 – If you have a resilient spirit and are curious about the quality of your own artwork, don’t miss the Art Critique Night hosted by The Welman Project, recognized as one of the best arts and crafts events. This monthly gathering will take place from 6 PM to 8 PM at the Welman Curiosity Shop, where participants can bring one piece of their work for constructive critique from peers. Admission is free.
Wednesday, October 21 – This week marks a special Halloween issue, bringing a variety of spooky stories, including a feature on a witchy shop facing political pressure and local musicians launching a unique podcast. Businesses are encouraged to secure their advertising space promptly at FWWeekly.com/advertise-with-us.
All Weekend – This weekend is your final opportunity to enjoy the 2026 State Fair of Texas at Fair Park. Concerts are included with admission, and adults and seniors can purchase tickets for just $10 after 5 PM on Wednesday and Thursday. Attendees can look forward to performances from artists like 3OH!3 and Gym Class Heroes, along with iconic fair foods from Big Tex Choice Awards finalists. The fair operates from 10 AM to 9 PM on Wednesday and Thursday, 10 AM to 10 PM on Friday and Saturday, and 10 AM to 9 PM on Sunday. For more details or to buy tickets, visit BigTex.com.
Next Week – Mecum Auctions will return to Dickies Arena from Tuesday, October 21 to Friday, October 24, featuring around 1,500 collector vehicles. This event will showcase a range of automobiles from classic muscle cars to hot rods. Whether you’re interested in buying, selling, or simply enjoying the atmosphere, the auction is open to the public. Three-day passes are available for $75, while daily tickets cost $30. Visit Mecum.com/tickets/ for more information.
