Registration Closed for Friends & Family Weekend 2026

Friday October 16th

Saxbys | Open 7:00am - 7:00pm | UTA Bookstore 
Need to fuel up before the Friends & Family Weekend activities? Saxbys at UTA is Texas’s first student-led experiential learning café, where Mavericks gain hands-on leadership and business experience while serving the campus community. Stop by Saxbys for handcrafted coffee, refreshing drinks, and delicious food while spending quality time with your Maverick. 

UTA Bookstore | Open 8:00am - 5:00pm | UTA Bookstore 
Show off your Maverick pride with a visit to the UTA Bookstore! Browse a wide selection of UTA apparel, gifts, souvenirs, and campus essentials, and take home the perfect keepsake to remember your Friends & Family Weekend experience. As a reminder, if you're an MPFA member, you receive a 20% discount on your purchase of gifts and apparel!

Special Collections Exhibit at the UTA Central Library  | Open 9:00am - 5:00pm | 6th floor of the Central Library
Before there were smartphones and social media, there was Maverick history in the making! Stop by the UTA Special Collections on the 6th Floor of Central Library for a nostalgic look back at 131 years of UTA historical artifacts. This is a free activity for all Mavericks and their families to enjoy!

Glassblowing Demonstrations and Art Sale | Open 10:00am - 2:00pm | UTA Studio Arts Center
Join the Department of Art and Art History for a glassblowing demonstration at our world class state-of-the-art studio! While you’re there, you can shop for glass pumpkins and other artwork to take home with you!

Check-in, Dinner, and Family Game Night | 5:00pm - 7:00pm | Maverick Activities Center
Kick off Friends & Family Weekend with dinner and a family game night! This activity will feature bingo, casino games, your favorite 2000s music, and prizes!

Choose Your Own Friday Evening Adventure!
Movie at the MAC featuring Cars (2006)! | Starting at 7:00pm | Maverick Activities Center Lonestar Auditorium
Start your engines and cruise back to the 2000s with a screening of Cars (2006)! Join fellow Maverick families and friends as we revisit the heartwarming story of Lightning McQueen's journey from big-city fame to small-town friendship along Route 66. Filled with memorable characters, laughs, and life lessons, this beloved Pixar classic is the perfect way to relax and enjoy some throwback nostalgia during Friends & Family Weekend. Grab your favorite movie snacks, settle in, and get ready for a wheel-y good time!

Roller Skating | 7:00pm - 10:00pm | Maverick Activities Center
A 2000s themed weekend wouldn't be complete without a night at the roller rink! Whether you're reliving your teenage years or experiencing the fun for the first time, join us for an evening of skating, throwback tunes, and memories in the making.

Tour of the Fraternity and Sorority Life Community Center | 7:00pm - 8:00pm | Fraternity and Sorority Life Community Center
Join the Office of Fraternity & Sorority Life (FSL) for a guided tour of the Fraternity & Sorority Life Community Center! Led by our FSL Ambassadors, families can explore the center, learn more about the fraternity and sorority experience at UTA, and connect with student leaders from across our community. Whether your student is already a member, is considering joining, or you simply want to learn more about Fraternity & Sorority Life at UTA, we invite you to stop by, meet our community, and see the FSL Center firsthand.

Saturday October 17th

Check-in, Brunch, and 2000s Trivia | 10:00am - 12:00pm | Maverick Activities Center
Test your 2000s era knowledge while enjoying an incredible brunch with your Maverick family! 

Choose Your Own Afternoon Adventure
UTA Bookstore and Saxbys  | Open until 2:00pm | UTA Bookstore 
Visit Saxbys for a refreshing drink or bite to eat, then explore the UTA Bookstore for the latest Maverick apparel, gifts, and campus merchandise. Whether you're fueling up or finding the perfect souvenir, these campus favorites offer something for every Maverick family. As a reminder, if you're an MPFA member, you receive a 20% discount on your purchase of gifts and apparel!

Glassblowing Demonstrations and Art Sale | Open until 2:00pm | UTA Studio Arts Center
Join the Department of Art and Art History for a glassblowing demonstration at our world class state-of-the-art studio! While you’re there, you can shop for glass pumpkins and other artwork to take home with you!

Special Collections Exhibit at the UTA Central Library  | Open until 5:00pm | 6th floor of the Central Library
Before there were smartphones and social media, there was Maverick history in the making! Stop by the UTA Special Collections on the 6th Floor of Central Library for a nostalgic look back at 131 years of UTA historical artifacts. This is a free activity for all Mavericks and their families to enjoy!

UTA's 25th Annual Autocross Weekend | 1:30pm - 5:00pm | Lot 49 (Southeast corner of Cooper and Mitchell)
UTA Racing is the Formula SAE team from The University of Texas at Arlington. Every year our team designs and builds a formula car to compete in the SAE International Formula SAE® Series against other universities across the globe. Established in 1982, the team is one of the most successful in the series’ history, having won eight championships in the United States and three abroad. Experience the excitement of UTA's 25th Annual Autocross Weekend, featuring competitors from universities across the country, including UTA's own award-winning racing team. As this event coincides with UTA's 20^th annual Friends & Family Weekend, families and students are encouraged to stop by and watch the races on Saturday, October 17, from 1:30pm to 5:00pm or Sunday October 18 from 9:30am to 12:00pm This is an incredible opportunity to see the best FSAE cars in the country, so come support UTA Racing during one of the most exciting weekends of the year! DISCLAIMER: For spectator safety, all guests must remain in the designated grass viewing areas on the south and east sides of Lot 49. Motorsports involve high-speed vehicles and can be dangerous. Children must be supervised and remain directly beside a trusted adult throughout the event.

Dinner and Tailgate Experience | 5:00pm - 7:00pm | Maverick Activities Center
Get ready for the ultimate tailgate experience before After Dark at the Park! Join us for an evening of delicious food, great music, and fun carnival games as we celebrate together with family and friends. Whether you're coming for the food, the games, or the Maverick spirit, this is the perfect way to kick off an unforgettable night at the park!

Choose Your Own Evening Adventure
Dallas Stars vs. Chicago Blackhawks Watch Party | Starting at 6:00pm | Maverick Activities Center Lonestar Auditorium
The Maverick Hockey Organization (MHO) is excited to host their 3rd on-campus watch party! MHO is an organization on campus for all hockey fans, whether they've been following the sport for years or just trying it out! We would love to have you join us, play some fun games during intermissions, and meet fellow hockey fans!

After Dark at the Park | 7:00pm - 8:00pm | Maverick Activities Center Outdoor Courts
UTA Athletics will officially tip off the basketball season with After Dark at the Park, a free fan event featuring the Mavericks men's and women's basketball programs. This event will provide attendees with an opportunity to get a first look at the 2026-27 Mavericks basketball teams while enjoying an evening of entertainment and interactive activities. Guests are encourage to bring lawn chairs if available for additional seating.

Fright Night hosted by EXCEL Campus Activities | 7:00pm - 10:00pm | Maverick Activities Center
Step into the Toymakers Workshop, where abandoned toys have come to life and every playroom hides a terrifying surprise. Brave the haunted house, then stick around for crafts, games, candy, and plenty of fun! Recommended for ages 12+.

Planetarium Show hosted by the Chemistry & Physics Department | UTA Planetarium
7:00pm Show: Dark Side of the Moon
Pink Floyd is the classic rock that everyone loves. The 5.1 surround sound music is set to immersive and surrealistic CG effects in a dome environment. The album covers topics of abuse, isolation, conflict, and greed which some parents may not find suitable for children. Recommended for ages 14+.

8:00pm Show: Supermassive Black Holes
Leading scientists in observational and theoretical studies of black holes and galaxies, industrial experts in cutting-edge big technologies, and professionals in science dissemination have been brought together to set up research projects which will combine the latest state-of-the-art observations, numerical simulations and innovative analytic tools to compare theory with observation, and shed light on the physics of black hole formation in the context of galaxy evolution. This planetarium show presents the environments of the black holes in an impressive and understandable way to the audience. Recommended for all ages.

Sunday October 18th

Maverick Family Breakfast | Special Offer from Inclusion Coffee!
Before you travel back home, meet up with other Maverick families to enjoy some coffee and a bite to eat! Inclusion Coffee is offering a10% discount for Friends & Family Weekend attendees. Open Sundays 8:00am - 8:15pm.

UTA's 25th Annual Autocross Weekend (Continued from Saturday) | 9:30am - 12:00pm | Lot 49 (Southeast corner of Cooper and Mitchell)
DISCLAIMER: For spectator safety, all guests must remain in the designated grass viewing areas on the south and east sides of Lot 49. Motorsports involve high-speed vehicles and can be dangerous. Children must be supervised and remain directly beside a trusted adult throughout the event.

Friday October 16th

Group Tour at Globe Life Field | Starting at 3:00pm | Globe Life Field, Arlington, TX
Globe Life Field is more than just the home of the 2023 World Series Champion Texas Rangers. This guided premium tour takes guests behind the scenes of the ballpark and onto the field, where they'll have the opportunity to play catch, take photos in the outfield, and experience the stadium from a player's perspective. Limited spots are available, so sign up now under the a la carte Activities section of the Friends & Family Weekend registration page.

Ticket Prices

• Adults (Ages 15 +): $28.00
• Youth (Ages 4 - 14): $20.00
• Children Ages 3 and younger are free and do not need a ticket.

Saturday October 17th

Group Tour at AT&T Stadium | Starting at 1:30pm | AT&T Stadium, Arlington, TX | $30 per person
AT&T Stadium is more than just the home of the Dallas Cowboys. AT&T Stadium is an engineering marvel, an art museum, and a venue that hosts a variety of events throughout the year. This guided tour offers something for everyone and ensures you leave with a wealth of facts and appreciation for one of DFW's largest attractions. Limited spots are available, so sign up now under the a la carte Activities section of the Friends & Family Weekend registration page.

Available All Weekend

State Fair of Texas | Open through October 18th | Fair Park, Dallas, TX
Experience one of Texas’s most beloved traditions at the State Fair of Texas! From iconic fair food and live entertainment to thrilling rides, exhibits, and family-friendly attractions, the fair offers something for every age and interest. Gather your family and make lasting memories while celebrating the sights, sounds, and flavors of the Lone Star State. Friends & Family Weekend falls during the final weekend of the 2026 fair.
For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit bigtex.com
Friday and Saturday hours: 10:00am - 10:00pm | Sunday hours: 10:00am - 9:00pm

Pumpkin Nights at Howell Farms | Open through October 31st | Howell Farms, Arlington, TX
Pumpkin Nights transforms Howell Farms into an immersive Halloween experience featuring nine themed pumpkin lands and more than 10,000 hand-carved and custom-designed
pumpkins. Guests follow a roughly half-mile trail through the displays before reaching Pumpkin Village, which includes food, games, entertainment, and a live fire show. The event is designed more as a festive Halloween experience than a traditional haunted attraction.
For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit pumpkinnights.com/dallas

Fright Fest at Six Flags Over Texas | Open select nights through November 1st | Six Flags Over Texas, Arlington, TX
Get ready for thrills and chills at Six Flags Over Texas Fright Fest, where the park transforms into a Halloween destination filled with haunted attractions, scare zones, live entertainment, and seasonal fun. Guests can experience themed attractions inspired by popular horror franchises, enjoy festive fall activities, and explore family-friendly Tricks and Treats experiences featuring costume contests, pumpkin painting, and more.
For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit the Six Flags Fright Fest website

National Medal of Honor Museum | Open daily from 10:00am - 5:00pm | National Medal of Honor Museum, Arlington, TX
The National Medal of Honor Museum tells the stories of Medal of Honor recipients and explores the history and meaning behind the nation's highest military decoration. Exhibits
combine artifacts, immersive experiences, and personal stories to highlight the actions and lives of recipients. Visitors can explore the museum independently or purchase premium and VIP experiences for additional programming.
For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit mohmuseum.org

International Bowling Museum & Hall of Fame | Open Friday & Saturday from 9:30am - 5:00pm, Closed Sunday | International Bowling Museum & Hall of Fame, Arlington, TX
The International Bowling Museum & Hall of Fame explores more than 5,000 years of bowling history through artifacts, photographs, film, and stories about the sport's legends.
Visitors can learn how bowling developed from its ancient origins into the modern sport. The museum is located within the International Bowling Campus near the Arlington Entertainment District.
For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit bowlingmuseum.com

Friday October 16th

Dallas Mavericks vs. Atlanta Hawks  | Starting at 7:00pm | American Airlines Center, Dallas, TX
The Dallas Mavericks will face the Atlanta Hawks in a 2026 preseason matchup at American Airlines Center. The game is scheduled for 7:00pm on Friday, October 16. American Airlines Center is located in the Victory Park area of downtown Dallas and is home to the Mavericks and Dallas Stars.
For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit nba.com/mavs

Free Concert: Los Texmaniacs w/ Conjunto Baraja de Oro | Starting at 7:10pm | Levitt Pavilion, Arlington, TX
Enjoy an evening of award-winning Tex-Mex and conjunto music as Los Texmaniacs and Conjunto Baraja de Oro take the stage at the Levitt Pavilion Arlington. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and relax on the lawn for this free outdoor concert, with free parking available for all guests.
For more information, please visit levittpavilionarlington.org/events

Treasures of the Heart Concert | Starting at 7:00pm | First Baptist Church of Arlington, Arlington, TX
Join the Arlington Master Chorale for Treasures of the Heart, a special two‑night concert series honoring the City of Arlington’s 150th anniversary. This year’s performance features a commissioned work by composer Laura Farnell, created exclusively to commemorate Arlington’s milestone year.
For more information, please visit arlingtonmasterchorale.com

Home Free Concert | Starting at 7:30pm | Arlington Music Hall, Arlington, TX
Don't miss a night of the group's upbeat, Nashville-dipped pop hits, country and western standards, incredible harmony, and quick humor! All-vocal Country entertainers Home Free have made their mark on the music scene, racking up over 720,000 album equivalents globally; embarking on major international tours; amassing 860+ million views and over 1.8 million subscribers on YouTube; and being declared “Country music fans’ favorite a cappella group” (Taste of Country).
For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit arlingtonmusichall.org

Saturday October 17th

USA Rugby Women's Eagles vs. Italy | Starting at 5:00pm | Texas Health Mansfield Stadium, Mansfield, TX
Cheer on the USA Women’s Eagles as they face Italy in an exciting international rugby match at Texas Health Mansfield Stadium. As part of World Rugby’s WXV Global Series, this matchup showcases elite athletes and world-class competition, making it a memorable experience for both longtime rugby fans and first-time spectators.
Click here for more information

Free Concert: In Halen w/ CB & J | Starting at 7:10pm | Levitt Pavilion, Arlington, TX
Rock out with In Halen, a high-energy Van Halen tribute band known for bringing the spirit of classic 1980s rock to life, with an opening performance by CB&J. Guests are invited to bring blankets or lawn chairs and enjoy free lawn seating and free parking at the Levitt Pavilion Arlington.
For more information, please visit levittpavilionarlington.org/events

Arlington 150: Stories of a Legacy | Opening on October 17th | Arlington Museum of Art, Arlington, TX
On the 150th anniversary of the city of Arlington, the Arlington Museum of Art announces Arlington 150: Stories of a Legacy, an exhibition looking at the history of the city from its first settlers to its most recent additions. In collaboration with over 75 organizations, businesses, and individuals from across Arlington’s community, the AMA has curated an exhibit telling stories from our greatest citizens to some of our unknown tales. Arlington 150: Stories of a Legacy will open October 17, 2026 and close February 28, 2027. From the heights of the Six Flags coasters to the underground casinos at Top O’Hill Terrace, the exhibition will feature items from historic sites like Arlington Downs, fan-favorites Pantera, and archaeological sites like Village Creek.
For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit arlingtonmuseum.org

The Sons of the Pioneers: 91 Years of Western Harmony Concert | Starting at 2:00pm | Arlington Music Hall, Arlington, TX
Experience the magic of the American West with The Sons of the Pioneers, the legendary group whose timeless harmonies and storytelling have defined Western music for more than nine decades. Known for beloved classics like “Cool Water,” “Tumbling Tumbleweeds,” and “The Timber Trail,” the Pioneers continue to captivate audiences with their rich blend of cowboy ballads, gospel songs, and frontier spirit. Now celebrating 91 years of continuous performance, this Grammy-honored group brings their signature sound to Arlington Music Hall for one unforgettable evening. Expect breathtaking harmonies, vivid tales of the trail, and selections from their acclaimed gospel album Campfire Spirituals. Fans of classic country, Americana, and Western swing won’t want to miss this rare opportunity to see the group that helped shape the soundtrack of the West.
For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit arlingtonmusichall.org

WAR Concert | Starting at 8:00pm | Arlington Music Hall, Arlington, TX
Multi-platinum-selling WAR is taking over the stage at the Arlington Music Hall on Saturday, October 17th! WAR has been bringing people together through music since 1969, blending funk, soul, rock, Latin, jazz, and R&B into a sound all their own. Founded on a message of brotherhood, unity, and hope, the multi-cultural band broke musical and social barriers while creating some of the most enduring hits of the 1970s, including “Low Rider,” “Why Can’t We Be Friends?,” “The Cisco Kid,” “Spill the Wine,” and “Slippin’ Into Darkness.” Led by founding member Lonnie Jordan, WAR has earned numerous gold and platinum records and continues to captivate audiences worldwide with its timeless music and uplifting message.
For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit arlingtonmusichall.org

Golftober | 4:00pm - 9:00pm | Golf Center of Arlington, Arlington, TX
Golftober Fest is a free community event combining golf, live music, food, games, and local craft beer. Activities include Toptracer golf challenges, virtual golf, mini golf, equipment
experiences, giveaways, and food trucks. Guests of all ages are welcome, although beer sampling is limited to guests 21 and older with valid ID.
For more information and to RSVP, please visit golfcenterofarlington.com/golftober-fest-2026

Sunday October 18th

UTA Wind Symphony Concert | Starting at 3:00pm | Texas Hall, Arlington, TX 
The UTA Wind Symphony is the select wind and percussion ensemble at UTA. The ensemble has performed at numerous conventions of the Texas Music Educators Association and the College Band Directors National Association. In addition, the Wind Symphony has toured extensively throughout Texas, Mexico, and Carnegie Hall in New York City. This concert will be conducted by Dr. Hannah Weller. 
For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit utatickets.com