DALLAS -- Longhorns fans and Boomin' Sooners are descending upon North Texas this weekend for the annual Red River Shootout, bringing school spirit and plenty of crowds to Dallas-Fort Worth.
Here's a list of what you should know for the big game day:
1. FACTS
The game will be held at The Cotton Bowl at Fair Park at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 11. According to fairpark.org, the annual game has been going on since 1900. Three trophies are won: the Golden Hat, the Red River Showdown trophy, and the Governor's Trophy. If you're heading to the game, remember to read the Cotton Bowl's new bag policies.The Cotton Bowl Stadium's website says the game has been a sellout since 1941 and generates $34 million for Dallas County's economy.
2. PARKING
For those opting to drive to the Cotton Bowl, there are several things you need to know:
- Plan and arrive early: Between the regular fair goers and Texas-OU fans, it's going to be packed, which means it could take you some time to find a parking space. Fair Park recommends parking within Fair Park or State Fair-controlled locations. However, the key phrase on their site is "when possible," which brings us to our second parking tip.
- Be cautious: Parking on private lots has proven problematic in the past. From illegal towing to scams, some drivers have returned to find their vehicles towed. City officials warn drivers to check for signs and ask for a receipt. Packed events can also attract criminals, so lock your car and hide any belongings left within the vehicle.
- Bring cash: There's nothing worse than finally finding that sweet parking spot only to discover it's a cash lot and you only have a credit card. D'oh!
Visit Fair Park's official site to find more details on official parking or call 214-670-8400 with any questions.
3. TRANSPORTATION
If parking is too much of a hassle, the DART train is a great way to travel to the Fair Grounds. Go here for the schedule and rail map. You can catch a "Fair Park" train operating from Union Station in downtown Dallas. You can also ride the TRE from Fort Worth and switch over to the DART. Make sure you're prepared, since there have been a couple of issues with the rail system in the past.
4. WEATHER
There's a 50 percent chance for rain during the first half of the Texas/OU game, and a 30 percent chance during the second half. The high temperature is expected to be 69 degrees with a low of 58 degrees. Note: Umbrellas aren't allowed inside the Cotton Bowl, so rain jackets might be a better choice.
Check WFAA.com's weather page the day of the event to check conditions.
5. ESCAPE THE CROWDS
While some revel in packed places, there are others that want to escape for some peace and quiet. This can be a difficult task during Texas-OU weekend. If you're among those seeking refuge from the masses, here are some places to avoid (or go if you're up for it):
- NorthPark Center: Dallas is known for its shopping and NorthPark Center is in the heart of the city. During Texas-OU weekend its packed with a sea of shoppers wearing their burnt orange and crimson and cream.
- Sit-down restaurants: There are a lot of good eats in Dallas, and that's why sit-down restaurants in popular areas such as Lower Greenville and Uptown are no-nos for those seeking a quick and easy bite to eat. Instead, opt for places like Fuel City, where you can still enjoy a local favorite and miss the crowds by getting your tacos to go. Or, escape to the other side of downtown to the Design District for sit-down restaurants such as Meddlesome Moth or Oak. End your night at The Belmont Hotel's bar to take-in their great view of downtown or the Texas Theatre to watch the horror classic "Suspira" with a performance by the Dallas Neo-Classical Ballet. You can also grab a drink at their bar and give yourself a tour of the historic spot.
- White Rock Lake: This would normally be in our places to visit as you could enjoy the outdoors, escape the crowds and enjoy a nice picnic. However, the weather has moved this choice into places to avoid. Well, there's always next year.
6. EVENTS
For those who like it crowded and lively, there's plenty to do this weekend.
- Beerfeast (Saturday): After the game, take a drive west to Fort Worth for BeerFeast 2014. There's live music, food and, of course, beer. The event will go on rain or shine, but you'll need to purchase a $35 ticket to attend.
- Reunion Tower fireworks (Friday): Enjoy downtown and fireworks at the Reunion Tower, which will put on a fireworks-light show at 9 p.m. Friday. You can get a great view from the west side of the Trinity River.
- Spirited Show Choirs (Friday): It's a sing off! The Longhorn Singers compete against the Singer Sooners during the annual competition at the Galleria's Center Court on Level 1.
- Find more local events here.
7. WATCH PARTIES
Can't make it to the game? There are plenty of spots across North Texas to catch the game with fellow fans.
- 6th Annual Texas Oklahoma Party on the Plaza at American Airlines: This event is for those who don't have tickets to the big game. The large screen at AT&T Plaza will air the game live. It's a free event and starts at 10 a.m. Saturday. Don't forget to bring your lawn chairs.
- Granada: Reserve a seat for $15 to watch the game on the big screen on Lower Greenville.
- Official Texas Watch Party at the Alamo Drafthouse: Longhorn fans can unite at the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema in Richardson to watch the game. It's the official watch location for the Texas Exes Dallas Chapter.
- Official OU Watch Party at the Henderson Tap House: Wear your red and cheer with fellow Sooner fans at the Henderson Tap House, the official home of the OU Alumni Club of Dallas.
8. ARE YOU GOING TO GET EBOLA?
No. See these charts explaining why.
