Brace yourself, foodies. Not only is this week fully loaded with festivals and other tasty celebrations — from annual favorite Texas Veggie Fair to the new Cultivate Festival — but many of the events are free. You have no excuse not to dig in.
Thursday, October 16
Savor Las Colinas at AMLI at Escena
This annual event features food, drinks and shopping at one Las Colinas address for an evening of fundraising. Visitors can taste foods, desserts and wines from more than 18 Las Colinas restaurants. The goal is to raise $10,000, and all proceeds help grant a wish for a selected "Wish Kid." Tickets are $12 for adults and $6 for kids, and you can buy them online. The festivities start at 6 pm.
Market After Dark at Dallas Farmers Market
Every Thursday, the Dallas Farmers Market hosts Market After Dark, a chance to shop artisan food vendors, feast from food trucks, sample beer and wine, and listen to great music. The event kicks off at 6 pm, and admission is free.
Friday, October 17
10-Year Anniversary Celebration at State & Allen
State & Allen welcomes fans for food, cocktails and dancing to help celebrate 10 years in the State Thomas neighborhood. Enjoy a DJ, shot luge and drink specials all night starting at 8 pm.
Saturday, October 18
2014 Cultivate Food, Idea & Music Festival at Lake Carolyn
The inaugural Cultivate Food, Ideas & Music Festival features performances by Amos Lee, O.A.R., MS MR, Sylvan Esso, DJ Christopher Golub and others, as well as demonstrations by chefs Sean Brock, Amanda Freitag, Matt McCallister, Paul Qui, Kent Rathbun and Omar Flores. Additionally, there is food from title sponsor Chipotle, beer and wine tastings from assorted local breweries and wineries, samplings of regional artisanal food, a kids zone, and more. The fun starts at 11 am, and admission is free.
Sunday, October 19
2014 Texas Veggie Fair at Reverchon Park
At Texas Veggie Fair, thousands come together to celebrate, learn about and experience plant-based lifestyle options. The free annual event features vegan food and product vendors, a local beer garden, live music, chef demos, yoga, and speakers from across the country. The fun starts at 11 am.
Monday, October 20
Greater Dallas Restaurant Association Fall Dine-Around at Trinity Groves
At this mystery dine-around, guests can meet up with friends and colleagues for appetizers at 3015 @ Trinity Groves. Then they're off to dinner and drinks at a surprise location only to return to 3015 for dessert and a nightcap. The event is $65 for GDRA members and $75 for non-members. The event starts at 6 pm, and you can buy tickets online.
The 2014 Texas State Veggie Fair is happening October 19 at Reverchon Park.
