Published on 9/16/2025
Every fall, the Red River Rivalry takes over Dallas as fans flood into the city for Texas vs. OU weekend. From tailgates to bar crawls, game day traditions, and the best spots to watch if you don’t have tickets, this iconic matchup is more than just football—it’s an experience. Here’s your guide on how to make the most of Texas-OU weekend. 
Texas OU is held at The Cotton Bowl Stadium in Dallas, TX.
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State Fair of Texas
No Texas-OU weekend is complete without a trip to the State Fair of Texas in Dallas. From fried favorites and craft beers to live music and midway games, the fairgrounds come alive as fans gear up for the big game. Be sure to soak in the atmosphere, catch the action on big screens around the fair, and of course—say hi to Big Tex while you’re there!
Not going inside the Cotton Bowl? You can still catch the Texas-OU game at these State Fair spots:
Magnolia Beer Garden
A must for beer lovers, offering Texas craft and international brews in a historic courtyard.
Bluebonnet Roadhouse
TVs inside and out, a big covered patio, craft beers, wine, frozen drinks, and bar food.
Cavalcade
New this year with TVs, a live DJ, and over-the-top fair eats like candied pork belly bites, brisket funnel cake, and bacon-wrapped turkey legs.
Canosaur’s Cantina
Tex-Mex favorites like tacos and quesadillas, plus a fun prehistoric theme and plenty of drinks.
Dickel’s Smokehouse
Rustic charm with picnic tables, circular bar seating, and classic BBQ plates.
The Dock
Cool off in the AC with a drink and a funnel cake inside the Embarcadero Building.
Howdy’s
Game-day exclusive spot with TVs, pizza, wings, beer, and plenty of seating.
What to Expect
The State Fair of Texas is a foodie’s paradise, famous for over-the-top fried creations and Big Tex Choice Award winners you won’t find anywhere else. From classic corn dogs and funnel cakes to inventive new treats, the fair serves up flavors as bold as Texas itself. Pair it all with rides like the Texas Star Ferris Wheel, live music, parades, and exhibits for the ultimate fair experience.
Mi Cocina
Swing by Mi Cocina for an iconic Mambo Taxi before, during, or after the game. Be sure to snag a reservation—this Dallas favorite fills up fast! With multiple locations around the city, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy bold flavors and festive vibes while cheering on your team.
Frankie's Downtown
Frankie’s, voted Dallas’ #1 Sports Bar multiple times, is a Downtown favorite serving Texas craft beers on tap, scratch-made comfort food, and award-winning cocktails. Known for its lively atmosphere and friendly staff, it’s the go-to spot for a “Damn Good Texas time.”
Katy Trail Ice House
The Ice House is the ultimate spot to catch a football game in Uptown Dallas. With a 50-foot bar pouring 50 beers on tap—from Texas domestics to regional and international favorites—you’ll always have the perfect drink in hand.
The Owners Box at the Omni Hotel
For a more upscale game day, The Owners Box at the Omni Hotel offers a stylish sports lounge experience. With oversized high-definition screens, elevated pub fare, and a vibrant bar scene, it’s the perfect spot to cheer on your team in comfort and style.
The Rustic
The Rustic is a go-to for game day with its spacious patio, live music vibe, and Texas-inspired menu. From craft beers to farm-fresh comfort food, it’s the perfect place to kick back, enjoy the outdoors, and catch all the football action.
Chelsea Corner
Chelsea Corner is the go-to spot in Dallas to catch the Texas-OU game with friends. With multiple TVs, cold drinks, and a lively pub atmosphere, it’s perfect for cheering on your team while enjoying classic bar bites. Game day energy meets a friendly neighborhood vibe here.
Lawnie's
Lawnie’s delivers a high-energy, vibrant game day experience. With neon lights, upbeat music, and crowds cheering together, it’s a lively spot to catch the Texas-OU action. Grab a drink, enjoy hearty bites, and soak in the electric Dallas bar scene as the game unfolds on big screens.
The Backyard
Backyard Dallas in Deep Ellum is the ultimate game day spot, with 40+ TVs, giant LED screens, interactive games like cornhole and ping pong, and a lively indoor-outdoor vibe. Grab a craft beer or cocktail and enjoy all-American eats while cheering on Texas-OU in style.
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Whether you’re cheering from inside the Cotton Bowl, watching with friends at a local bar, or soaking in the energy around town, Texas-OU is all about good food, great drinks, and unforgettable rivalries. However you choose to celebrate, one thing’s for sure—there’s nothing quite like Red River weekend in Dallas.
