BREAKING: The highly anticipated Cowtown Cookoff & Music Festival is set to ignite the Panther Island Pavilion this weekend, bringing two days of excitement from February 20-21, 2026. This event promises a sizzling lineup of live music, mouth-watering Texas barbecue, and family-friendly fun that you won’t want to miss!
As temperatures rise and the weekend approaches, grab your friends and family and head over to join the festivities. The festival features performances from local favorites like Wade Hatton, Brett Watts, and the energetic Poo Live Crew. Each barbecue plate purchase directly supports the nonprofit Fort Worth Cops for Kids, making your delicious meal a way to give back to the community.
What: Cowtown Cookoff & Music Festival
When: 8 a.m.-10 p.m., February 20-21
Where: Panther Island Pavilion, 395 Purcey St., Fort Worth
Admission: Free
In addition to the cookoff, art enthusiasts can explore two compelling exhibitions featuring Mexican-American artists at the William Campbell Gallery. The exhibitions, titled “Brownsville” and “Puncture,” showcase the unique artistic voices of Benito Huerta and David Lozano, whose works are on view until March 14.
What: “Brownsville” and “Puncture” exhibitions
When: 10 a.m.-5 p.m., February 19-20; 11 a.m.-4 p.m., February 21
Where: William Campbell Gallery, 217 Foch St., Fort Worth
Admission: Free
Art lovers can also delve into the legacy of renowned architect Louis I. Khan during a special lecture at the Kimbell Art Museum. Sue Ann Kahn will share insights from her father’s private sketchbook, highlighting his creative process during the final year of his life.
What: Friday Evening Lecture – “A Conversation about Louis I. Khan and His Last Notebook”
When: 6-7 p.m., February 20
Where: Kimbell Art Museum, 3333 Camp Bowie Blvd., Fort Worth
Admission: Free; limited seating available
Jazz enthusiasts are in for a treat as internationally acclaimed pianist Keiko Matsui takes the stage in Arlington. Her performance promises to blend jazz, classical, and world music in an unforgettable evening.
What: Keiko Matsui Live in Arlington
When: 7:30-10 p.m., February 21
Where: Arlington Music Hall, 224 N. Center St., Arlington
Admission: $48-$70
To honor Black History Month, the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth will host a special screening of the influential film “Daughters of the Dust.” The event, in partnership with the Fort Worth Film Club, will include a panel discussion led by Dev’n Goodman.
What: Reel House Presents “Daughters of the Dust” with Dev’n Goodman
When: 6:30 p.m., February 24
Where: Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, 3200 Darnell St., Fort Worth
Admission: Pay-what-you-can
Don’t miss out on these vibrant community events this weekend! Whether you’re indulging in barbecue or soaking in the local art scene, there’s something for everyone in Fort Worth.
For updates on local events, stay connected, and feel free to share your own “Weekend Worthy” activities in our community calendar.
This story was originally published by Fort Worth Report. For more, visit fortworthreport.org.
