Tianyu Arts & Culture, Inc., the leading producer of spectacular lantern festivals in North America, has officially begun construction of the upcoming Tianyu Lights Festival in North Texas. More than 70% of the construction is already completed, and final touches will be made before the festival opens to the public on November 8. This enchanting event invites visitors on a magical nighttime adventure, following the story of Koda, a 7-year-old boy exploring the vibrant rainforest of Caballococha, Peru.

The festival will showcase stunning displays of plants and animals, infused with magical elements inspired by Koda's dreams and imagination. Attendees can look forward to 19 immersive scenes featuring larger-than-life lantern sculptures made from metal, steel, fabric and LED lights.

The Tianyu Lights Festival will run from November 8 through January 19, at the Texas Trust CU Theater Festival Grounds operating every Tuesday through Sunday from 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM. In addition to the breathtaking displays, the festival will feature nightly performances by acrobats and folk artists, along with a variety of food options and handcrafted souvenirs.

Tickets are available for purchase, ranging from $16 to $35. For more information and to buy tickets, visit https://tianyuculture.us/dallas.

Don't miss this magical experience as the Tianyu Lights Festival comes to life in North Texas!

Family-Owned North Texas Staple Marks Half a Century of Serving Authentic, Slow-Smoked Bar-B-Que

Soulman’s Bar-B-Que, a beloved North Texas institution, is thrilled to announce its 50th anniversary. Since opening its doors in 1974 in Pleasant Grove, Soulman’s has become a household name synonymous with authentic, slow-smoked hickory BBQ, hearty sides, and strong community ties. In celebration, the first 74 guests at each of the 21 North Texas Soulman’s locations will have the opportunity to enjoy the signature Chuck Wagon special with 1lb of meat, two (16 oz) sides, three slices of Texas toast and bar-b-que sauce for only $19.74 (a savings of more than $16).

For half a century, Soulman’s has remained committed to its family-owned roots, staying true to the same values, recipes, and dedication to quality that first made it a local favorite. "Reaching this milestone is incredibly meaningful to us," said Brett Randle, CEO of Soulman’s Bar-B-Que. "It’s a testament to our dedication to tradition, quality, and the loyal support of our customers. We’ve grown with the times, but our passion for serving authentic BBQ has never wavered."

From its iconic hickory-smoked brisket, ribs, and sausage to its signature sides, Soulman’s menu continues to draw generations of BBQ lovers. "We’re proud to say that our slow-smoking process, which gives our meats that distinct, rich flavor, hasn’t changed in 50 years," added Randle]. "Customers tell us all the time that our BBQ still tastes like it did when they first visited, and that’s the highest compliment we could receive."

The company’s decades of feeding the masses at its 21 North Texas locations have earned accolades in countless best-of lists, including the Best Roadside Restaurants in America (2024), Top Bar-B-Que Chains in America (2024), the Best Bar-B-Que in Dallas for Takeout  & Delivery (2020) and one of the Best Bar-B-Que Chains in America (2018).

The family-owned and operated restaurant has also played an active role in giving back to the community that has supported it over the years. "We’ve always believed in supporting the communities that support us," said Randle, "From partnerships with local schools to charitable events, being a part of this community means the world to us."

To celebrate this momentous anniversary, Soulman’s is offering special promotions, including discounted prices on signature dishes and limited-edition menu items. "This is a celebration for our customers as much as it is for us," said Randle. "We want to give back and show our appreciation for the incredible loyalty and support they’ve shown us over the years."

As Soulman’s looks forward to the next 50 years, the team remains committed to maintaining the same high standards that have made the restaurant a North Texas staple. "Our goal is to continue serving the best BBQ in Texas while staying true to our roots and giving back to the communities we serve," said Randle. "We’re excited to see what the future holds."

About Soulman’s Bar-B-Que

For 50 years, Soulman’s Bar-B-Que has satisfied the hardest to please bar-b-que lovers….Texans!  Founded in Pleasant Grove, Texas in 1974, Soulman’s had only a few simple goals—serve great Texas-style BBQ and offer friendly, sincere service.  Soulman’s original family recipes are still the foundation for the company’s success from their 8 different types of meat that are smoked “low & slow” over only hickory wood to their famous homemade sides, including Ranch house beans and Texas style cream corn! Throughout the years, this family-owned and operated company has remained true to its original strive for success and customer satisfaction and is honored to be considered one of the Best Roadside Restaurants in America (2024), Top Bar-B-Que Chains in America (2024), the Best Bar-B-Que in Dallas for Takeout  & Delivery (2020) and one of the Best Bar-B-Que Chains in America (2018).

Soulman’s currently owns and operates 21 North and East Texas locations in Allen, Cedar Hill, Fort Worth, Forney, Garland, Greenville, Hurst, Hurst Grapevine Highway,  Lancaster, Lewisville, Mabank, Mansfield, Mesquite, Quinlan, Red Oak, Rockwall I-30, Rockwall Goliad, Royse City,  Sulphur Springs, Terrell, and Van. To learn more about Soulman’s Bar-B-Que, visit them online at http://www.soulmans.com or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/soulmansbbq.

Tickets are on Sale NOW for the Pop Culture Event at Irving Convention Center October 19 & 20, 2024

Dallas FAN FESTIVAL 2024, one of the region's premier pop culture events, returns with an action-packed weekend of unforgettable experiences for fans of all genres! From October 19–20, the Irving Convention Center will transform into a vibrant hub for fans of comics, sci-fi, fantasy, anime, and gaming. With an exciting lineup of celebrity guests, interactive panels, and immersive experiences, this year’s festival promises to be the ultimate celebration of fandom.

Celebrity Guests and Autograph Sessions

Fans will have the opportunity to meet stars from their favorite TV shows and movies, with scheduled appearances from popular actors in blockbuster franchises and beloved cult classics. Expect autograph signings and photo opportunities with fan-favorite stars, making for unforgettable memories. Look out for special announcements regarding celebrity panels and exclusive meet-and-greet sessions!

Panels and Q&A Sessions

The festival will host a variety of panels featuring top creators, artists, and actors discussing everything from the latest trends in pop culture to behind-the-scenes insights from the biggest hits in entertainment. Highlights include Q&A sessions with comic book creators, discussions on the rise of superhero films, and exclusive previews of upcoming films, series, and projects.

Cosplay Exhibitions and Workshops

Cosplay enthusiasts are in for a treat with Dallas FAN FESTIVAL’s cosplay exhibitions, showcasing impressive costumes from all corners of fandom. Participants can compete for prizes and bragging rights, while newcomers can attend cosplay workshops led by experts to perfect their own costumes. Whether you're a seasoned cosplayer or just starting out, this is the place to showcase your creativity!

Artist Alley and Vendor Marketplace

Explore Artist Alley, where fans can meet independent artists, illustrators, and writers, and purchase one-of-a-kind artwork, sketches, and signed comics. The expansive vendor marketplace will feature booths from top retailers, offering exclusive merchandise, collectibles, rare comics, and memorabilia for every kind of fan.

Tabletop Adventures and Interactive Experiences
This year's festival will also feature exciting tabletop experiences for fans of all levels, including live Dungeons & Dragons sessions with the DFW Critter Crew, new indie RPGs, and storytelling tips in the Dungeon Master panel. Plus, fans can take part in D&D trivia, improv games, and a unique live-play podcast adventure. Whether you're new to the game or a seasoned pro, there's something for everyone.

Family-Friendly Fun

Dallas FAN FESTIVAL 2024 is committed to providing entertainment for fans of all ages. Families can look forward to a Sunday full of Trick-or-Treating, creative crafting activities like the Friendship Bracelet Exchange and Harry Potter wand-making, and Padawan Training for young Jedi. Parents and children alike can enjoy special programming designed with younger fans in mind.

Ticket Information

Tickets for Dallas FAN FESTIVAL 2024 are now available for purchase online. Fans can choose from a variety of ticket options, including single-day and weekend passes. Gold Packages, which include early access, reserved seating for panels, and exclusive merchandise, are also available in limited quantities.

Dallas FAN FESTIVAL is this Fall’s premier pop culture celebration, offering the ultimate playground for comics, sci-fi, horror, anime, and gaming fans. Highlights include celebrity photo ops and meet-and-greets, opportunities to interact with legendary comic book creators, a one-of-a-kind shopping experience, family-friendly fandom, and cosplay fun! Dallas FAN FESTIVAL features programming that celebrates the vibrant pop culture community thriving in North Texas and beyond.

Saturday Programming Highlights:

• FANDOM QUEST: LONE STAR SCAVENGER HUNT FANDOM QUEST: LONE STAR SCAVENGER HUNT Begins 10:00 am VENUE WIDE

Join our Lone Star Fandom Quest at Dallas FAN FESTIVAL. Explore the show floor together, tracking down life-sized cutouts of favorite characters with a Texas twist. Complete the hunt for a chance to win unique prizes, including fandom-themed artificial pumpkins.

• D&D COSPLAY MEETUP

Saturday 11:30 am in COMMUNITY ZONE 4 - LEVEL 3 - MEETING ROOM 4

Join us for a D&D Cosplay Meetup where all fandoms are welcome. Whether you're a fan of Critical Role, Dimension 20, Baldur's Gate, or have your own original character, come in costume and connect with fellow enthusiasts. All levels of cosplay are encouraged—let's celebrate our shared love for storytelling and fantasy!

• STAR CITY SAVIORS: THE ARROW CAST REUNITED

1:00 pm in MAIN THEATER - LEVEL 4 - GRAND BALLROOM

Join Willa Holland and David Ramsey as they reflect on their time in Arrow, the show that helped launch the Arrowverse. Hear behind-the-scenes stories, how they brought their characters to life, and what made Arrow a game-changer in the superhero genre.

• TRUTH, JUSTICE, AND FAMILY: THE STARS OF SUPERMAN & LOIS

3:00 pm in MAIN THEATER - LEVEL 4 - GRAND BALLROOM

Join Superman & Lois stars Tyler Hoechlin, Elizabeth ""Bitsie"" Tulloch, and Michael Cudlitz for an exciting conversation about bringing iconic DC characters to life. From family dynamics to action-packed scenes, hear their thoughts on portraying Clark Kent, Lois Lane, and Lex Luthor in this modern take on Superman’s legacy. Fans of the show won’t want to miss this special panel!

• SKETCH DUEL: JESUS MERINO VS PASQUAL FERRY

5:15 pm in PROGRAMMING THEATER - LEVEL 3 - MEETING ROOM 1

Check out your favorite comic artists as they go pen to pen and be entered to win the original art they produce once they're done! A fantastic experience to witness, these friendly rival competitions show who has the edge in comic book illustration.

• THE FLASH FAMILY: A SUPERCHARGED REUNION

6:00 pm in MAIN THEATER - LEVEL 4 - GRAND BALLROOM

Celebrate The Flash legacy with the cast that brought Central City to life! Featuring celebrity guests John Wesley Shipp, Carlos Valdes, Danielle Panabaker, Candice Patton, Tom Cavanagh and Grant Gustin.

Sunday Programming Highlights:

• MICHAEL CUDLITZ: A CAREER IN ACTION

11:00 am in MAIN THEATER - LEVEL 4 - GRAND BALLROOM

Join us as Michael Cudlitz takes the stage to discuss his incredible journey in acting, from his breakthrough role in Band of Brothers to his fan-favorite performance in The Walking Dead. With an impressive range of characters and experiences under his belt, this panel is a must-see for fans of his work across both TV and film.

• LOCAL INDIE GAME DEMOS

11:00 am in COMMUNITY ZONE 4 - LEVEL 3 - MEETING ROOM 4

Discover new and exciting tabletop RPGs beyond the usual titles. Join us for indie gaming demos where you can try out unique systems, mechanics, and settings. Perfect for gamers looking to expand their horizons and find their next favorite game!

• K-POP RANDOM DANCE

12:00 pm in COSPLAY RED CARPET - LEVEL 1 - LOBBY

Do you enjoy listening to K-pop, whether that be old or new songs? With a curated selection of K-pop hits and engaging choreography, participants will have the opportunity to showcase their dance skills while immersing themselves into the world of Korean pop! Join us to have fun, dance and make new memories with friends!

• ODDBALL COMICS WITH SCOTT SHAW

12:00 pm in PROGRAMMING THEATER - LEVEL 3 - MEETING ROOM 1

ODDBALL COMICS is the wildest, wackiest exposé of some of the craziest comic books that cartoonist Scott Shaw has ever seen!

• TAKE YOUR PASSION TO REALITY...BUILDING YOUR OWN R2-D2

1:00 pm in PROGRAMMING THEATER - LEVEL 3 - MEETING ROOM 1

Are you a Star Wars fan dreaming of building your own R2-D2 droid? Join us to learn about the best materials, step-by-step assembly, and the electronics needed to bring your droid to life, with plenty of reference materials to guide you. Get ready to ignite your creativity and embark on the ultimate DIY adventure. May the Force be with you!

• MANNY JACINTO: FROM GOOD TO GALACTIC

2:00 pm in MAIN THEATER - LEVEL 4 - GRAND BALLROOM

From his iconic role as Jason Mendoza in The Good Place to his exciting new role in The Acolyte, Manny Jacinto has showcased incredible range. Join him as he reflects on his journey in the entertainment industry, his latest projects, and the challenges of transitioning between comedy and drama.

• MEN OF STEEL: A SUPERMAN LEGACY

3:00 pm in MAIN THEATER - LEVEL 4 - GRAND BALLROOM

Four iconic actors who have portrayed the Man of Steel—Brandon Routh, Tim Daly, George Newbern, and Dean Cain—come together to discuss their experiences as Superman across film, TV, and animation. Hear how each actor approached the role, their favorite memories, and how playing the Last Son of Krypton impacted their careers.

• FRIENDSHIP BRACELET EXCHANGE

3:00 pm in ACTIVITY BOOTH - LEVEL 1 - LOBBY

Get crafty and connect with fellow fans at the Friendship Bracelet Exchange! Bring your handmade bracelets to trade onsite with new friends. It's the perfect way to share a little piece of fandom love and walk away with a keepsake from someone else in the community!

Tickets ON SALE NOW:

Weekend Passes: $60

Adult Single Day Passes (13+): Saturday $45 and Sunday $35

Child Passes (6-12): $10

Family Passes: Saturday $100 and Sunday $80

Gold Package: $129

DETAILS:  Dallas FAN FESTIVAL runs Saturday, October 19, and Sunday, October 20, 2024

Saturday, October 19, from 10:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M.

Sunday, October 20, from 10:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M.

The Irving Convention Center is located at 500 W Las Colinas Blvd., Irving, TX 75039

ABOUT FAN EXPO HQ:

With over a million fans and counting, FAN EXPO HQ attracts pop culture enthusiasts, locally and internationally, to come together to celebrate all things fandom. Collectively, it hosts nearly one million fans annually at FAN EXPO Dallas™, FAN EXPO Canada™, MEGACON Orlando, FAN EXPO Boston™, FAN EXPO Denver, FAN EXPO San Francisco, CALGARY EXPO, FAN EXPO Chicago, FAN EXPO Philadelphia, FAN EXPO Portland, FAN EXPO New Orleans, FAN EXPO Cleveland, FAN EXPO Vancouver™, Toronto Comicon, Dallas FAN FESTIVAL and EDMONTON EXPO. The latest schedule of events is available on the Website, along with up-to-date ticket information. Discover. Celebrate. Belong. 

Puttshack is thrilled to announce its partnership with One Warm Coat, a national nonprofit dedicated to providing free coats to children and adults in need. This collaboration kicks off on October 8, National Share the Warmth Day, and runs until October 29.

Each Puttshack venue will host a coat drive during this period, inviting guests to donate new or gently worn coats that will be distributed directly to a local nonprofit. As a token of appreciation, every donation—regardless of the number of items—will earn contributors a free game card redeemable at any Puttshack location.

Details about the local nonprofits benefiting from this initiative will be shared soon, so be sure to stay tuned on Puttshack’s website and social media channels for updates.

Beth Amodio, President & CEO of One Warm Coat, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership: "One Warm Coat is thrilled to be teaming up with Puttshack locations nationwide to share warmth with children and adults in need in their local communities."

Alison Schulman, Puttshack's VP of Marketing, added, "Caring Deeply is one of our company values that we live every day, and One Warm Coat is the perfect organization to connect with for this giving season. It’s important to give directly to the communities that we live and work in, and we hope that getting coats to those who need them will make a significant impact. We invite everyone to our venues to donate coats, and as a thank you, we’ll provide a free game card."

In addition to coat donations, guests will also have the option to make financial contributions to One Warm Coat through their "Donate Now" platform. Every dollar donated helps provide warmth to one person in need.

One Warm Coat is a national nonprofit that has been providing free coats to children and adults in need for over 32 years. With a network of 1,500 local nonprofit organizations across all 50 states, One Warm Coat has facilitated the collection of over 8 million coats through community-driven coat drives. The organization also emphasizes fashion circularity and reducing textile waste, helping keep millions of pounds of textiles out of landfills each year.

To learn more about how you can support this initiative and team up with One Warm Coat to share warmth, visit onewarmcoat.org today.

As October 4 approaches, it’s time to gear up for National Golf Lovers Day! This year, golf enthusiasts are invited to elevate their celebration at Puttshack in Addison—North Texas's newest indoor mini golf destination. More than just a place to play, Puttshack serves as a vibrant hub of excitement and innovation, perfect for both avid golfers and newcomers alike.

Puttshack redefines the mini golf experience with its patented Trackaball Technology. Gone are the days of manually keeping score; this cutting-edge system effortlessly tracks players' progress. As they navigate through immersive courses, their scores update in real-time on overhead screens at each hole. It’s golf like never before—fun, engaging, and high-tech!

The Trackaball Technology not only simplifies scoring but also elevates the entire gaming experience, keeping players connected and engaged. Guests can imagine the thrill of seeing their scores update instantly as they tackle uniquely designed holes—a true game-changer!

Whether someone is a seasoned golfer, a family looking for a fun day out, or coworkers enjoying a friendly competition, Puttshack welcomes all. The inclusive atmosphere invites everyone to join in the fun, making it the ideal venue for gatherings of any kind.

After a thrilling round of mini golf, guests can treat themselves to Puttshack's exciting new menu items.

• Shareables:
• Sweet Heat Shrimp Skewers: Cajun and hot honey glazed grilled shrimp, served with housemade cornbread and crispy fried kale.
• Greek Gyro Sliders: Mediterranean-spiced lamb and beef gyro on warm mini pitas, topped with pickled red onions, cucumber salsa, and lemon aioli.
• Texas Tailpipes: Spring rolls filled with smoked brisket mac 'n cheese, accompanied by chipotle BBQ and buttermilk ranch dipping sauces.
• Flatbreads:
• The Hot Italian: A mouthwatering combination of Italian sausage, premium pepperoni, mozzarella, and hot giardiniera peppers.
• Handhelds:
• Cali Chicken Wrap: Chargrilled chicken with Romaine, avocado, tomato, onion, pickled carrot, and lemon aioli, all wrapped in a spinach and herb tortilla.
• Desserts:
• Supertube Sundae: A fun, shareable spectacle featuring vanilla, strawberry, and blue cookie monster gelato, chocolate chip brownie, and a delightful assortment of toppings.
• Key Lime Pie: A single-serving slice with a graham cracker and Biscoff crust, Italian meringue, and strawberry puree.
• New Drinks:
• Signature Cocktails:
• Puttshack Paloma: A refreshing blend of Espolon Tequila Blanco, Tres Agave Grapefruit Paloma Mix, Fever-Tree Sparkling Pink Grapefruit, fresh lime, and a Tajin rim for a zesty finish.
• Zero Proof Cocktails:
• N/A Spritz: A delightful mix of Lyre’s Apeeritif Rosso, Töst Sparkling White Tea, cranberry, and ginger, garnished with freshly sliced orange.
• H2NO Ranch Water: A refreshing combination of Almave Blanco Distilled Blue Agave, fresh lime, and soda water.

This National Golf Lovers Day promises to be unforgettable! Visitors are encouraged to join in the celebration at Puttshack in Addison, where every swing is filled with fun!