For some this is the last weekend before school begins, if that’s you, make the most out of this weekend. Even if you’re not going back to school next week, live it up anyway. There’s three festivals going on this weekend -- one for anime, one for hatch chiles, and one for local craft beer and music. Ice Cube and J. Cole visit Dallas on Saturday. You also have some opportunities to get artsy -- at a chocolate and art show, or by making your own at an adults-only Crayola event.
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Thursday - Friday
Aug 16-17
Lofty Spaces
Bite into some sweet treats, and see what LA’s famous underground art is like at this Chocolate & Art Show. In addition to chocolates and art, there will also be live music, live body painting, vendors, food and drinks. And if that wasn’t enough there will also be a -- wait for it -- free chocolate fondue.
Cost: Tickets are $15 online, $20 at the door.
Cost: Tickets are $15 online, $20 at the door.
Friday - Monday
Aug 17-20
Sheraton Dallas Hotel
If you like anime, manga, games or all of the above, then you need to be at AnimeFest this weekend. Go for one day or attend the entire four-day event. More than 11,000 fans of anime are expected to attend this year. Explore art, get autographs, play games, attend panels, and most importantly, participate in the cosplay.
Cost: Ticket prices vary, starting from $30 for one day.
Cost: Ticket prices vary, starting from $30 for one day.
Friday
Aug 17
Trinity Groves
Have some Spanish tapas, try some Moroccan dishes, grab a bite in China, and then chow down in Mexico all without leaving Dallas. Trinity Groves’ Around the World will give you the chance to try foods from different part of the earth. A ticket gets you a custom pint glass, and a wristband for drink and food specials.
Cost: Tickets are $15 online or $20 at the door.
Cost: Tickets are $15 online or $20 at the door.
Friday
Aug 17
Crayola Experience
When was the last time you got to color with Crayons? It’s probably been too long. At Crayola After Dark: Craft and Sip, you’ll get the chance to explore from crafts and enjoy some drinks — with no children in sight. This 21-and-up event will feature a live DJ, food and other colorful activities.
Cost: Tickets are $39.
Cost: Tickets are $39.
Saturday
Aug 18
J. Cole’s KOD Tour hits Dallas this weekend. Count on hearing some of his classic bops like “No Role Modelz” and “Wet Dreamz.” But don’t rule out the tracks from his new album KOD. Cole is bringing along Young Thug as his opener, making this a two-man lineup you don’t want to miss.
Cost: Tickets start from $49.50.
Cost: Tickets start from $49.50.
Saturday
Aug 18
Toyota Music Factory
Today Ice Cube is probably more known for being an actor than a rapper. But back in the day, the dude had some serious flow. Get taste of Ice Cube’s musical talents when he comes to town this weekend. You don’t have to wear '90s attire to the concert, but it wouldn’t be a bad idea.
Cost: Tickets start from $25.
Cost: Tickets start from $25.
Saturday
Aug 18
Market Square
Fun fact: Hatch chile season runs from August through the end of September. Celebrate the mouth-watering greatness of hatch chiles at Grand Prairie Farmers Market’s Eight Annual Hatch Chile Festival. Buy some chiles by the pound, drink some beer, and try some foods made with hatch chiles including: tamales, jellies, relishes and meats.
Cost: Free
Cost: Free
Saturday
Aug 18
House of Blues
Drink local, listen local. That’s what Local Brews Local Grooves is all about. The craft beer and musical festival will feature 18 local breweries along with 18 local bands. Groves include Northern National and Cure for Paranoia, brews include Deep Ellum Brewing Co. and Bishop Cider Co.
Cost: General admission is $14.
Cost: General admission is $14.
Saturday
Aug 18
AT&T Stadium
Football season is just around the corner. If you can’t wait that long, that’s OK because NFL preseason is well underway. Cheer on the Dallas Cowboys when they take on the Cincinnati Bengals at home for a preseason game.
Cost: Tickets start from $30.
Cost: Tickets start from $30.
Sunday
Aug 19
Box Garden at Legacy Hall
Grab a drink and something to eat at Legacy Hall and enjoy the musical stylings of nine D-FW School of Rock groups. It’s free, but donations are encouraged and the money will go to a good cause around North Texas. Drinks and music for a good cause? Why not?
Cost: Free
Cost: Free
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