Family events in Mesquite, TX

Dallas Animal Services offers a drive-thru pet food pantry for owners in need. Bringing pets or proof of residency is not required. Quantities are limited and distributed in the order people arrive, so early arrival is encouraged. Walk-ups can be accommodated. For questions, email daspetsupport@dallas.gov.

Week 15 of the Rodeo Capital Barrel Series brings exhibitions ahead of the main competition, giving riders time to prepare before the action gets underway. The arena surface has been updated with a fresh layer of dirt, providing solid footing for quick, competitive runs. Food and beverages will be available throughout the event from Rodeo City Provisions. To respect the venue, outside alcoholic drinks and glass containers are not permitted on the property, and anyone who brings them will be asked to leave.

The State Fair of Texas brings Texas sized fun to historic Fair Park in Dallas. Across 24 days, it offers food, rides, live music, animals, shopping, and exhibits, plus a chance to see Big Tex. Look for more than 90 musical performances, signature fair foods, livestock shows, family friendly activities, and cultural exhibits. Midway thrills and local traditions round out the celebration.

Set in Anderson Bonner Park, this race day features a half marathon, 10k, 5k, a relaxed 1 mile option, and a kids dash for ages 10 and under. Packet pickup is available before the start. The kids dash meets at the main start line and participants are guided to their own starting area. The National Anthem opens the festivities, and live results with awards are available at the registration tent right after you finish. Registration for the half marathon, 10k, and 5k includes a custom bib, a designer shirt, and a custom finisher medal. The 1 mile is untimed and also includes a custom bib, a designer shirt, and a finisher medal. The kids dash is an untimed sprint for children 10 and under and comes with a mini bib, a youth shirt, and a medal created specifically for the dash. Children who prefer to skip the swag may run the kids dash at no cost. Enjoy free photos, snacks at the finish line, and a focus on fun. Youth pricing is offered for the 5k and 10k at 17 dollars for participants 12 and under. To guarantee a shirt, register by midnight on the Thursday that falls two weeks before race day. Every pace and fitness level is welcome, whether the goal is a personal best or simply being part of an encouraging, affordable, and inclusive running community.

The 2nd annual Drag N Destroy Showdown brings a full day of trucks, cars, and bikes together to raise awareness for autism and anti-bullying. The event takes place at The OC and is presented by Banzai Cruisers TX and the Hometown Hotrodder Podcast, with hosting by Galliant Autism Care and the Texas Anti Bullying Coalition. Expect a fully judged, open-class show welcoming all makes and models. Registration is day-of only at $25 per car, and spectators are free. The day features live music and a DJ, door prizes and giveaways, a 50/50 raffle, kids games and entertainment, food and restrooms, and plenty of merchandise vendors. Vendors include Low Income Clothing, Cars and Coffee Rockwall, Legacy Classic Insurance, Jack Arron Fleming for pinstriping, Crazy Ducks Appeal, Adam’s Polish, and JR Laser Art. Awards include a Top 40 open class along with more than 15 specialty honors such as Club Participation, Best lowrider, Best car, Best mini truck, Best hotrod, Best classic, Best bike, Best truck, Kids Choice, Banzai Cruisers pick, Best interior, Best paint, Best under construction, TABC pick, JR Laser Art pick, and Best of Show. Show guidelines include ample vehicle parking on concrete and grass on a first come basis, the option to coordinate club parking, and on-site trailer parking. Please observe a 10 mph speed limit on the lot and grass, and note that no drunken or disorderly conduct, burnouts, revving, or loud music will be permitted. All sales are final, and the show is rain or shine. For questions, contact Mike Ross at 469-386-0812 or dragndestroyshowdown@gmail.com.

Spend a fall morning at the park with your canine companion. Enjoy a relaxed stroll along the trail with treat stations set out for pups. A dog costume contest is the centerpiece, featuring outfits that are clever, spooky, or irresistibly cute. Bring a leash, dress up your furry friend, and enjoy a playful seasonal outing.

Set in the Design District of Dallas, the Hi Line Farmers Market brings together a lively mix of local vendors in an outdoor setting. Browse fresh-from-the-farm produce, pasture-raised meats, artisan baked treats, handmade goods, and more. The atmosphere is relaxed and family friendly, making it easy to wander, grab a bite, and support small businesses while finding something new. Whether stocking up for the week or planning a casual outing, there is plenty to explore.

Celebrating its fifth year, this car show brings enthusiasts together for category-based judging with trophies awarded to first and second place in each class. The event teams up with Smiley’s Racing Products and has expanded steadily every year. It traditionally coincides with the opening weekend of the Texas State Fair and is featured on Larry’s List this year. Expect plenty to enjoy, including food, music, vendors, and a standout display of vehicles, whether entering a ride or taking it all in as a spectator.

To receive vaccines through TCAP, pets need to be alert, properly hydrated, and eating and drinking as usual. A wellness veterinarian will examine each pet, so vaccinations are not given while pets remain in vehicles. TCAP provides only a select set of preventive services that align with its mission. For a comprehensive physical exam or to discuss any concerns, please visit a full service veterinarian. For safety while waiting, dogs must be on a short, secure leash, and retractable or loose leashes are not allowed. Cats must be brought in a carrier. Please keep your pet under control to prevent bites or conflicts with other customers or animals. TCAP and Gloria Dei are not responsible for the actions of other pets or customers while you wait in line.

Young athletes can put their soccer skills to the test at a community challenge from the Knights of Columbus, open to boys and girls ages 9 to 14. Participants compete within their own age and gender groups, and winners advance to the District level. The event takes place at the Prince of Peace Athletic Field, and registration is free. Sponsored by Knights of Columbus Council 11716. For more information, contact Estevon at estevonrincon@hotmail.com or Chic at chic.leehan@gmail.com.

Caturday at the Snuggle Spot offers a chance to spend time with adoptable foster cats and kittens inside DPA’s Adoption Container at Community Beer Company. Guests can play with the animals and explore matchmaking software that helps identify a cat suited to their home. The experience supports the cats in the program while bringing together a welcoming community of feline fans.

Dog parents, friends, and families can take a splash with their pups at a fundraising swim benefiting the Texas Pool Foundation. The experience includes treats, a keepsake photo, giveaways, and vendor booths, plus appearances by local animal rescue groups. It is all about dog-friendly summer fun at The Texas Pool. Ticket details will be announced soon.

Experience an afternoon built around tennis, connection, and community with the ACEing Autism Dallas-Fort Worth program. The schedule features an ACEing Autism clinic, friendly round robin play, welcoming hospitality, and a moment to recognize the people who helped grow the program. Attendees can connect with athletes, families, volunteers, and supporters who have shaped the Dallas-Fort Worth community over the last ten years. For a decade, this program has brought together athletes, families, volunteers, coaches, and supporters to foster confidence, genuine friendships, and the joy of tennis for individuals with autism. This celebration honors Adrienne, along with Program Directors, volunteers, coaches, families, and community partners whose dedication has created belonging and growth for hundreds of athletes and their families. The gathering also serves as a fundraiser, with proceeds supporting affordable programming, scholarships, volunteer engagement, and meaningful social connections for the next generation of ACEing Autism athletes across Texas. Sponsorship opportunities are available for organizations, families, and community partners. Organizers are currently gauging interest, and additional event details and registration information will be shared.

BikeDFW leads a relaxed, no-drop community ride through Downtown Dallas under the light of the full moon, based at Pegasus City Brewery (Downtown Taproom & Brewery). Expect an easygoing, family-friendly pace over roughly 8 to 10 miles, good company, cooler evening air, and a fresh way to see the city after dark. This beloved ride returns with the blessing of Liz, who led it for years, and the group stays together from start to finish. There is time to socialize at the brewery afterward. Bring a working bike, a helmet, front and rear lights for night riding, water or snacks, money for food and drinks afterward, and a camera if you enjoy night photos. Friends are welcome. This ride is weather dependent. Rain or cloudy conditions will cancel, and any updates will be shared the day of the ride on BikeDFW’s social media channels. It is a BikeDFW-led community ride, and participants ride at their own risk and are responsible for their own safety and equipment.

Texas Dynamix Gymnastics Royse City lights up for a glow-in-the-dark celebration under black lights, where bright white and neon clothing shines. Participants ages 4 and older can enjoy games, inflatable bounce houses, and time to explore the gym freely. Pizza and beverages are included. Promoted as the largest event of the year, it is designed for energetic fun from start to finish.

An all-vehicle car show welcomes entries of every year, make, and model, along with motorcycles. The competition is judged, offering awards for first and second place in 40 classes and 10 Best of Show honors that include Best Female Ride. Registration is on site only with no preregistration. Please be cautious of online scammers.