What’s up, Waco? As fall begins, there’s plenty of spooky and spectacular events around town for you to enjoy with the whole family. While you’re carving pumpkins, though, don’t forget to stop by this year’s rodeo!
However you decide to spend it, we hope you enjoy your Waco Weekend!
Featured Events
Find the top things to do in Waco this weekend, from can’t-miss festivals to signature local experiences.
Heart O’ Texas Fair & Rodeo
Join the Heart O’ Texas Fair and Rodeo, 4601 Bosque Blvd., October 8–18 for carnival rides, shopping at over 100 vendors, livestock shows, comedy shows, live animals, a live rodeo and live music every weekend on the ZiegenBock Music Stage. Tickets can be purchased online before October 8. For the schedule of events, see here.
Brew at the Zoo
It’s the 15th Annual Brew at the Zoo at Cameron Park Zoo, 1701 N. Fourth St. From 6–9 p.m., sip craft beers, snack on bites from local food trucks and enjoy live music under the stars — all while supporting the zoo’s animal conservation efforts. Adults 21+ can grab their tickets here.
Boos on the Brazos
Enjoy dinner, dancing, games and a costume contest to support The Arc of McLennan County at Lee Lockwood Library and Museum, 2801 W. Waco Drive. This fundraiser is Saturday from 7–11 p.m. and tickets start at $150 and can be purchased here.
Threads of Time Gala
The Threads of Time Gala celebrates the philanthropic leaders committed to honoring the memory, strengthening community and advancing research, care and hope for families affected by Alzheimer’s disease. This black-tie event invites guests to a sophisticated cocktail hour, multi-course dinner and live entertainment this Saturday 6–10 p.m. There will also be raffles and auctions throughout the evening. Tickets are $150 for members, $175 for non-members. VIP sponsorships are available.
Live Music
Explore Waco’s weekend concerts and live music events featuring local bands, talented artists and unforgettable performances.
- Chavela, Levitt AMP at Bridge Street Plaza | Thursday, 5 p.m.
- Kenneth Elliott, Uncle Dan’s BBQ Ribhouse | Friday 6:30 p.m.
- Braxton Keith, Foster Pavilion | Friday, 7 p.m.
- Bronson Louis, Blue Pup Wine & Martini Bar | Friday, 7 p.m.
- D-Rail, Encore Rooftop Bar | Friday, 8 p.m.
- Chris Whitten, Twisted Sisters Patio Bar | Friday, 8 p.m.
- Sploinky Rave, The Backyard Bar Stage & Grill | Friday, 8:30 p.m.
- Pat Mckee Trio, Segovia Wine Bar | Saturday, 7 p.m.
- Rosenthal Parkway Band, Twisted Sisters Patio Bar | Saturday, 8 p.m.
- Josh Meloy, The Backyard Bar Stage & Grill | Saturday, 8:30 p.m.
Kids and Family
Find family-friendly fun in Waco — from toddler-approved activities to family outings perfect for all ages.
“Attack of the Bloodsuckers!”
The Mayborn Museum’s skin-crawling exhibit, “Attack of the Bloodsuckers,” will be on display at the museum, 1300 S. University Parks Drive, Sept. 20–Jan. 1. Learn all about how bloodsucking parasites live, work and play! (Note that the museum is closed on Saturday for the Baylor home game.)
Baby & Toddler Time
Every Thursday, join the Central Library, 1717 Austin Ave., for a 30–minute storytime made especially for babies and toddlers. Running from 10:30–11:30 a.m., this storytime is the perfect opportunity to build early literacy skills through activities, play time, and socializing.
Fabled Storytime
Every Thursday morning at 10:30 a.m. is storytime for the littles at Fabled Bookshop & Cafe, 215 S. Fourth St. Enjoy a time of silly songs and storytelling for ages 2–8 years old, free and open to the public!
Maker Lab: Pattern Block Pictures – Inspired by Artist Tarsila do Amaral
Celebrate the work of artist Tarsila do Amaral with this fun workshop! Bring your little ones and use geometric shapes to design pictures while you explore patterns, composition and artistic expression. Head over anytime from 10 a.m.–6 p.m. on Thursday for the chance to participate.
Baylor Theater Student Society at Family Storytime
The Baylor Theater Student Society will be reading and acting out stories at the West Waco Library this Thursday! From 6:30–7:30 p.m., enjoy watching this fun group bring story time to life.
Maker Lab: Create Wearable Art – Inspired by Oscar de la Renta
Head over to the STEAM center, 300 N M.L.K. Jr. Blvd., to explore the world of fashion and design your very own piece of wearable art. This hands-on activity is fit for families and encourages creativity, imagination and experimentation. Come anytime from 10 a.m.–6 p.m. on Friday for the chance to make your own unique accessory!
Fossil Friday
Join the Mayborn Museum, 1300 S. University Parks Drive, every Friday from 10:30 a.m.–12 p.m. to see Ph.D. candidate Dava Butler work on fossil specimens in the paleo lab. For more information about this event, see here.
Homeschool Skate
Roll up to Skate Waco Bellmead, 500 N. Loop 340, for homeschool skate from 2–5 p.m. every Friday. Enjoy a fun mix of music including Christian Pop, oldies and today’s top hits.
Fire Station #1 Open House
This Saturday, bring the whole family to the Waco Fire Station #1, 100 Peach St., from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for a free open house. The day will include the Mayor Proclamation of John Linda Day, tours of the new Tiller Engine, simulations, show and tell, refreshments and a special appearance by Sparky the fire dog!
Hispanic Heroes of STEAM
Join the STEAM Center, 300 N M.L.K Jr. Blvd., as they celebrate Hispanic pioneers of science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics. This Saturday from 10:30–11:30 a.m., this program highlights Hispanic STEAM leaders and encourages students to discover new opportunities through interactive learning.
World Sloth Day at Cameron Park Zoo
Slow down and hang out at Cameron Park Zoo, 1701 N 4th St., for World Sloth Day! From 9 a.m.–2 p.m. on Saturday, enjoy games, crafts and education from Cameron Park Zoo’s dedicated staff.
Community
Join Waco’s weekend community events and gatherings that celebrate local pride, connection and the best our town has to offer.
Western Belle Farm Pumpkin Festival
Western Belle Farm, 7929 Heritage Pkwy, is celebrating all things fall at their annual Pumpkin Festival! Join them every weekend through Nov. 8 to take a hayride, pick your own pumpkin, meet the farm animals and more. Tickets start at $5.50 and can be purchased here.
The 40th Annual Brazos Forum
The Brazos Forum is back this Thursday at 9 a.m. with three illustrated talks! Their three talks this year are about museum collections, the history of Pennsylvania Avenue and the evolution of American food culture. Registration is $75 for first-time attendees.
State of the Nation Luncheon
Join Baylor Club, 1001 S. M.L.K. Jr. Blvd., for the 2026 State of the Nation Luncheon on from11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. on Thursday. Hear a legislative update from Congressman Pete Sessions and a fireside chat with Ross Perot Jr., Board Chairman of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. This event is open to Chamber members and non-members and registrations are required to attend.
AI Workforce Pathway
Local business and industry leaders are invited to the MCC Conference Center, 4601 N. 19th St., at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday to help shape a new Artificial Intelligence (AI) Workforce Pathway, designed to prepare students with the AI-related knowledge and skills. The event will begin with a networking lunch, followed by the forum from noon–1:30 p.m.
Bingo Night at The Will of Waco
Thursday nights are back at The Will, 5984 N State Hwy 6! Enjoy pizza by the slice, popcorn, drafts and margaritas, starting at 4 p.m. Bingo begins at 6:30 p.m. so be ready to bring a little friendly competition with you.
Music Bingo
Join DJK and Waco Ale Company, 806 Austin Ave., every Thursday from 6–8 p.m. for a night of music bingo. It’s free to play and guaranteed to be fun!
MCRW Comedy Night: Batsh*t Bonkers in the USA
British comedian Katie Hopkins is bringing her Batsh*t Bonkers Britain tour to Waco at the Waco Hippodrome Theatre, 724 Austin Ave. Tickets range from $30–100, varied by seating, and the show begins Thursday at 7 p.m.
Adult Skate Night
Every Thursday is Adult Skate Night at Skate World Waco, 401 Towne Oakes Drive! From 7–8 p.m. take a skating lesson, followed by open skate 8–10:30 p.m. Enjoy DJs, guest instructors and the SIPS Bar. Admission is $10 per person for adults aged 16-plus.
Trivia Night at Brotherwell Brewing
It’s Thursday which means it’s Trivia Night at Brotherwell Brewing, 400 E. Bridge St. Trivia is from 7–9 p.m. and each week covers different trivia topics. Be sure to bring a team that has a wide variety of knowledge!
Sunset Yoga
Join the Carleen Bright Arboretum, 9001 Bosque Blvd., at 6 p.m. on Thursday for free sunset yoga! Join professional instructor Annie and relax under the sunset with this guided session.
Line Dancing Lessons with Dena
Grab your boots and join Dena at The Will, 5984 N State Hwy 6, for an evening of line dancing lessons Fridays from 6–7:45 p.m. Whether you’re a beginner or a regular, it’s a hootin’ hollerin’ night of fun. Lessons are $10 by cash or Venmo to Dena.
The Wine Cellar at Hotel 1928: Scarlett Wines
Join Hotel 1928, 701 Washington Ave., for a sommelier-led evening complete with a four-course menu and thoughtful wine pairings! This next installment of The Wine Cellar at Hotel 1928, featuring Napa Valley’s Scarlett Wines, will start Friday at 6:30 p.m. and tickets are $125.
Speakeasy Soiree
Enjoy an evening of jazz, cocktails and more mystery at this Speakeasy Soiree hosted by AC Hotel Waco Downtown. The location of the event is a secret and will be texted to ticket holders the morning of the event. To purchase and join the fun of this event beginning at 7 p.m., see here.
Day of the Dead Half Marathon
Celebrate the spirit of Dia de los Muertos at the Day of the Dead Half Marathon, featuring a Kids Dash, one mile, 5K, quarter marathon and half marathon distances. The event kicks off at 8 a.m. and you can sign up for the runs here.
Fossil Day Celebration
The Waco Mammoth National Monument, 6220 Steinbeck Bend Drive, invites you to celebrate National Fossil Day! From 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., enjoy screen washing, guided nature walks, storytime at the amphitheater, Paleoteria (Fossil Loteria!), food trucks and more. Admission is free!
Swatch Nines Surf & Skate Public Day
Swatch Nines is back at Waco Surf for the third year and for the first time, the public will be invited to come and watch the action during a Public Day on Saturday. Tickets are $5 plus tax and can be purchased here.
The Culinary Collective: Pasta Making 101
Ready to make your own pasta noodles? Head over to the STEAM Center, 300 N M.L.K Jr. Blvd., this Saturday for a cooking workshop! From 2–4 p.m., you’ll hand pull noodles and learn how to make classic pomodoro and alfredo sauces. Registration is $50.
“Into the Fire” Book Signing
Larry Johnson will be at Fabled Bookshop & Café this Saturday from 3–5 p.m. to talk about his book “Into the Fire.” Learn about his experience with the Waco Siege with this month’s Cover to Cover and pick up your copy.
Doggie Days at The Will
Every Sunday is Doggie Day at The Will of Waco, 5984 N State Hwy 6. Bring your favorite pup and enjoy a relaxing brunch! From 12–3 p.m., sample favorites from The Will’s brunch menu and explore their other Sunday offerings.
Nonprofits
Give back while having fun! Support Waco’s nonprofits through fundraisers, galas and volunteer opportunities.
Faith & Blue Waco Police Events
Faith & Blue Weekend in Waco will take place October 9–12. This national initiative fosters meaningful connections between law enforcement and the community through local faith-based organizations. Waco Police will participate in events throughout the weekend to strengthen community bonds!
Walk to End Alzheimer’s
The Alzheimer’s Association’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s is this Saturday at 10 a.m. at Legends Crossing, 5100 Crosslake Parkway. All funds will further the research efforts and bring care and support for those living with Alzheimer’s.
Open Volunteer Day at Cloven Heart Farm Sanctuary
Every Saturday and Sunday is Open Volunteer Day at Cloven Heart Farm Sanctuary, 11225 Yankie Rd.! Starting at 10 a.m., help out around the farm and make a difference. The only requirement is your enthusiasm and willingness to help.
Arts
Experience Waco’s creative scene with local art exhibits, performances, DIY experiences and academic events happening around town.
Hounds in the Hulse
Join the community at Art Center Waco, 701 S 8th St., for a family friendly, pet inspired art exhibition. This event is free to all, including well behaved furry friends (as long as they remain on a leash). This exhibition will remain on display September 17 – October 31.
Art Community Showcase
Celebrate the talents of artists from the Art Guild of Waco, Central Texas Watercolor Society and Waco Calligraphy Guild at this Art Community Showcase at Cultivate Waco, 924 Austine Ave., Ste. 100 through November 27.
“Paradise Tossed”
Come see visiting artist Christian Rieben’s exhibition “Paradise Tossed” at the Martin Museum of Art, 60 Baylor Ave. through Nov. 7. Rieben’s paintings are colorful and surreal, taking viewers into an existential world full of lush imagery and humor.
“Aquí, Escuchar”
Come see artist Rosemary Meza-DesPlas’ exhibition “Aquí, Escuchar” at the Martin Museum of Art, 60 Baylor Ave. This multimedia exhibit incorporates fiber art, drawing, installation, video and more to explore the intersection of political agency and gender inequality through Nov. 7.
Flora Cameron Gallery
The Flora Cameron Gallery at Art Center Waco, 701 S. Eighth St., proudly displays a cultivated collection of artwork gifted by Flora Cameron, featuring renowned artists and pieces. This quarter, the gallery features John James Audubon, Gustave Baumann, Edward Borein and Norma Basset Hall, co-curated by Emma Kruse and Dorian Henry II.
“Hubcap Diamond Star Halo” Exhibition
Returning to the Washington Gallery, 715 Washington Ave., contemporary abstract artist Robbie Austin from Lake Charles, Louisiana, is presenting his newest exhibition, “Hubcap Diamond Star Halo,” which will be on view through October 24.
Magic Margarita Paint Night
Paint a magical margarita while enjoying the film “Practical Magic” at Cultivate Waco, 924 Austin Ave., Ste. 100 this Thursday at 6 p.m. Tickets are $35 and include all supplies.
Pumpkin Painting
Get into the spooky season with a fun pumpkin painting craft at Cultivate Waco, 924 Austin Ave., Ste. 100, this Saturday at 12 p.m. For $20, reserve your pumpkin and get ready to create your fall masterpiece
Markets
Shop local this weekend at Waco’s farmers markets, artisan fairs and pop-ups featuring handmade goods, produce and local makers.
Waco Downtown Farmer’s Market
The Waco Farmers Market includes locally grown and produced goods from farmers and artisans within 150 miles of Waco, plus live music and a featured local organization each week. Visit the website to view a calendar of upcoming events.
Homegrown Sundays
Join The Will, 5984 N. State Hwy 6, every Sunday for Homegrown Sunday, an outdoor market event featuring vendor shopping from 1–5 p.m. and local live music from 12–5 p.m.
