Fall is finally here, and the cooler evenings make it easy to get outside. Here are six ways to enjoy the next two weekends around DFW, from Big Tex's last days to Oktoberfest in Southlake.
State Fair of Texas: The Final Stretch

Through Oct. 18 | Fair Park, Dallas
Big Tex is still waving hello, but only until Oct. 18. Fried food, midway rides, livestock shows and the Big Tex Choice Award winners are all waiting for you. It's a bit of a drive from North Fort Worth, and worth it at least once a year.
Blooms & Beats

Friday, Oct. 9 | Fort Worth Botanic Garden, Fort Worth
Spread out a blanket in the Horseshoe Garden and enjoy live music from local artist Joseph Neville. Flora House Cafe has dinner, and yard games keep your crew busy. Bring the kids or make it a date night.
PumpkinFest

Oct. 9 to 18 | Meadowmere Park, Grapevine
Walk a pumpkin-lined path, snap a few fall photos and take a spooky stroll along the park trail. Local artisan vendors set up Friday through Sunday. Entry is $20 per car, cards only.
29th Annual Celebrate Roanoke

Saturday, Oct. 10 | Oak Street, Roanoke
Downtown Roanoke fills with live music, western entertainment, good food and artisan vendors. Admission is free, and the fun runs from noon until 10 PM.
DFW Italian Festival

Oct. 10 to 11 | Levy Event Plaza, Irving
Come hungry for authentic Italian food, live entertainment and a little culture along the Las Colinas waterfront. General admission is free.
Oktoberfest Southlake

Oct. 16 to 18 | Southlake Town Square, Southlake
Live music, German food, local vendors and the popular Wiener Dog Races fill the square all weekend. Parking and admission are both free. Prost!
Which one is calling your name this week? Send me a photo if you go, and pass this along to a friend who's new to the area.
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