The Autumn Festival at Dallas Arboretum shifts its focus to Mexico with the thematic event, ¡Mundo México!
Autumn at the Arboretum: A Vibrant Celebration of Mexican Culture
The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is set to host its annual autumn festival, Autumn at the Arboretum, from September 20th to November 2nd. This year's theme, ¡Mundo México!, promises a colourful and immersive exploration of Mexican culture.
The event, which can be found on dallasarboretum.org/autumn-at-the-arboretum, runs each day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with admission prices varying based on the day of the week and age of the visitor.
One of the highlights of Autumn at the Arboretum is the Pumpkin Village, where the Dallas Arboretum's famous pumpkin houses transform into seven different regions of Mexico. Each region showcases vibrant and intricate displays, including Casa Calabaza Azul, a tribute to Frida Kahlo's blue home in Coyoacán, and Casa de Flores Wixárika, a nod to the intricate beadwork done by the Huichol people in the Sierra Madre Occidental.
The Pumpkin Village also features Templo de Kukulkán, inspired by the ancient Maya city of Chichén Itzá (Yucatán), and Casa de Saltillo, paying tribute to the artisanal tilework of Coahuila and Puebla. Eight sculptures from the Oaxacan workshop of artists Jacobo Ángeles and María del Carmen Mendoza are also on display, depicting imaginary hybrid animals that act as both spirit guides and astrological embodiments of human character.
A large-scale textile installation, The Cielo Tejido: A Canopy of Culture and Craft, created by a collective of women artisans based in Etzatlán, Jalisco, is another must-see attraction in the Pumpkin Village.
In addition to the daytime activities, Autumn at the Arboretum offers a nightly event, Pumpkins and Pints, from 6-9 p.m. This event features craft beers and wine, Mexican eats from local food trucks, folkloric dancing, and entertainment from local musicians.
For individuals with sensory sensitivities and their families, a special event, Pumpkins After Hours: A Sensory-Friendly Evening at the Dallas Arboretum, takes place on September 30, 5:30-8 p.m. This event features quiet zones, hands-on fall-themed activities, and smaller crowds.
Parking at the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden during Autumn at the Arboretum costs $15 per vehicle. The annual festival is a partnership between KERA and The Dallas Morning News, as listed on the Go See DFW calendar.
The autumnal equinox, also known as the first day of fall, occurs on September 22. Autumn at the Arboretum is the perfect way to celebrate the arrival of the autumn season in Dallas.
