A lot of interesting things have happened in Dallas since it was founded in 1841. | Photo via Wikimedia Commons
As connoisseurs of the quirky and unconventional, we put together a list of Dallas’ history, oddest characteristics, and more. Maybe you’ve lived here your whole life and know some of this, or maybe you’ll learn something new.
Either way, these 20 interesting facts will have you winning “Jeopardy!” in no time.
History
Do you know how Dallas got it’s name? That’s a serious question, because the jury is out. It’s a local mystery on how our city was named, with some speculating its after former Vice President George Mifflin Dallas, and others suggesting anything from baseball players to Navy-men.
Sports
Investors and NBA officials were reluctant about starting the Mavericks in Dallas. They feared that the Cowboys + the existence of the Houston Rockets and San Antonio Spurs would deter fans from a Dallas-based basketball squad.
Everything’s bigger
There are more people living in Dallas (1.3 million) than there are people living in Wyoming, Vermont, Alaska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Delaware, Montana, and Rhode Island.
Summer Warehouse Sale | Thursday, Aug. 7-Saturday, Aug. 9 | 8 a.m.-5 p.m. | Young Sharon Inc. | Free | Designer brands are filling up this warehouse for a three-day retail experience perfect for savvy shoppers.
Friday, Aug. 8
James Austin Johnson | Friday, Aug. 8-Saturday, Aug. 9 | Times vary | Dallas Comedy Club | $25 | Prepare to laugh all night with this comedian and “Saturday Night Live” cast member known for his impersonations of presidents.
Saturday, Aug. 9
So Long Sweet Summer | 6-8 p.m. | Frisco Water Park | $7+ | Summer is drawing to a close, and this local water park is splashing out of the season with a DJ, activities for all ages, and plenty of snacks.
The Elton Johns | 7-10 p.m. | Granada Theater | $22+ | Sing along to all of your favorite Elton John hits with this talented and touring tribute band.
Sunday, Aug. 10
The Free Loaders Jazz Brunch | 2-5 p.m. | The Free Man Cajun Cafe & Lounge | Grab a drink and listen or dance to soul, jazz, and swing music played by a local outfit.
Monday, Aug. 11
Mixology Mondays at The Parlor | 5-6 p.m. | Sheraton Dallas Hotel | $30 | Learn how to craft the perfect cocktail with the help of The Sheraton’s mixologist.
Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Texas Rangers | Monday, Aug. 11-Wednesday, Aug. 13 | Times vary | Globe Life Field | $13+ | Don’t miss this week’s special promotions, including a free Bruce Bochy “Bussin” hat while supplies last on Monday.
Tuesday, Aug. 12
Dallas Apparel & Accessories Market | 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m. | Market Hall | Free | Upgrade your wardrobe at this one-day pop-up that offers everything from swimwear to jewelry to holiday apparel.
Wednesday, Aug. 13
Stroller Tour | 10 a.m. | Dallas Contemporary | Free | Bring your inquisitive or energetic little ones for a guided tour of the museum before it opens.
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With amenities like this top-notch resort-style pool, why leave home? | Photo provided by Core Spaces
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You don’t need to travel via Platform Nine and Three-Quarters to visit the Wizarding World of Hogwarts. Instead, “Harry Potter: The Experience” is coming to Pepper Square on Friday, Oct. 24 with authentic set props, a sorting hat, magical activities, and lore-appropriate snacks like Chocolate Frogs.
Opening
Welcome to Dallas + the US, Lupita Taco & Mezcal. This popular taco spot is opening its first-ever US location on Oak Lawn Avenue. It is expected to be ready by December. (CultureMap Dallas)
Concert
Grammy Award-winning rapper Doechii is coming to Dallas. The “Anxiety” singer will bring her “Live from the Swamp Tour” to Toyota Music Factory at Petco Park on Wednesday, Oct. 29 — just two days before Halloween. Ticket presales begin today and general public tickets go on sale Monday, Aug. 11.
Biz
The New York Stock Exchange is setting up shop in Dallas inside a former hospital. It was previously operating in Chicago, but that office will close once this one opens in 2026. (CultureMap Dallas)
Sports
What happens when an unstoppable force meets an immovable object? We’ll find out soon, because Cowboys star defensive end Micah Parsons publicly requested a trade and owner Jerry Jones quickly said he wasn’t swayed by it.
Trending
The State Fair of Texas is coming soon, and the finalists for the Big Tex Choice Awards are hot. Check out WFAA’s Sean Giggy on X for all of the mouthwatering details.
Regional
Alligators have been reportedly nesting in Fort Worth, which is a bit too close to Dallas, in our opinion. Researchers are digging into this new phenomenon, but say these gators are now “thriving.” (CBS News)
Listen
The No. 1 ranked Texas Longhorns are searching for a new offensive lineman after sophomore Andre Cojoe suffered a season-ending injury.Get the biggest stories every day from the local experts of the Longhorns with Locked On’s daily podcasts.
Job
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A great maxi wrap dress that can see you through the transition from summer into fall. Choose your favorite print or floral and enjoy the airy, comfortable feel and flattering ruffle hem.
The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
Not to be out-shined, here’s an SMU update as well. It looks like the Mustangs are strong contenders heading into the season ranked No. 13. Redshirt junior quarterback Kevin Jennings is back and hopefully going to help return the team to the College Football Playoffs again.
^This content was created by our Client Success Team. Let’s work together — explore affordable advertising options at advertise.6amcity.com.
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