Top 8 Things To Do This Week In Plano, McKinney, The Colony And Beyond [Aug 18-21, 2025]

Who says August is the slow stretch of summer? From Tuesday through Thursday, Plano, Frisco, McKinney and beyond are buzzing with happenings that shake up the weeknight routine. Think laughter that makes your cheeks hurt, live tunes that beg for a singalong, science that feels more like playtime and drinks that turn into mini adventures. 

With the forecast still serving up plenty of heat, these events are a reminder that a packed calendar can be the coolest way to spend the last stretch of summer.

Spanish Wine Masterclass: Summer White Wines

When: Aug. 20, 2025 | 6:30 - 8 p.m.
Where: Bulla Gastrobar, 6007 Legacy Drive #180, Plano
Tickets

Think of it as a crash course in how Spain keeps summer in a glass. Three crisp Albariños from the Rías Baixas region team up with tapas for a tasting that balances learning with plenty of sipping. It’s part classroom, part party and just the right excuse to brush up on wine wisdom without cracking open a textbook.

Sci-Tech Discovery Annex 

When: Summer exhibit, Monday - Sunday, mall hours
Where: The Shops at Willow Bend, Near Grand Court, 6121 W Park Blvd, Plano
More info

Curiosity takes center stage with interactive exhibits that mix science, technology and plenty of hands-on fun. From rotating displays to STEM activities for all ages, the experience keeps things fresh so no two visits feel the same. Admission is free, making it an easy pick for families looking to turn “why” into “wow.”

Dallas Cowboys Training Camp

When: Aug. 19-20, 2025 | 4 - 8 p.m.
Where: Ford Center at The Star, One Cowboys Way, Frisco
More info

Fans can catch the Cowboys gearing up for the season with two open practices in Frisco. The event blends football action with plaza festivities, live entertainment and appearances from the cheerleaders, all free and open to the public. It’s a rare chance to see the team fine-tune their playbook before the games begin.

Rum & Gelato At Prohibition McKinney

When: Aug. 19, 2025 | 7 - 8:30 p.m.
Where: McKinney Flour Mill, 407 E. Louisiana St., McKinney
More info and tickets

A rum tasting with a sweet twist pairs Bacardi pours with artisan gelato for an evening that balances smooth sips and cool bites. Guests can sample four premium selections, hear a few spirited stories and even snag prizes along the way. Designed for both seasoned enthusiasts and first-timers, it promises a flavorful mix of learning and leisure.

Thursday On Tap

When: Thursdays until Oct. 30, 2025
Where: Perot Museum of Nature and Science, 2201 N. Field Street, Dallas
More info and tickets

Science, snacks and skyline views come together at this adults-only night out where museum halls stay open late and the food trucks roll in. Guests can sip on drinks, play outdoor games and enjoy live music while exploring the exhibits — no kids, no crowds, just good times and curiosity on tap. It’s part date night, part science experiment and all the more reason to ditch your usual Thursday plans. Early tickets are encouraged; this popular evening tends to sell out.

Toto + Christopher Cross + Men At Work

When: Aug. 19, 2025 | 6:45 p.m.
Where: The Pavilion At Toyota Music Factory, 300 W Las Colinas Blvd, Irving
Tickets

Three music powerhouses are joining forces for a summer tour that blends smooth sailing ballads, iconic rock riffs and unforgettable anthems from the ’70s and ’80s. Fans can expect a setlist stacked with hits like “Africa,” “Down Under” and “Sailing,” performed by Toto, Men At Work and Christopher Cross. It’s a night built for nostalgia with just the right mix of groove and singalong magic. 

Big Wave: No Room for Error

When: Aug. 19, 25 & 27, 2025 | 5:30 p.m.
Where: Cosm Dallas, 5776 Grandscape Boulevard, The Colony
Tickets starting at $20

Big Wave: No Room for Error plunges viewers into the heart-pounding world of Teahupo’o, one of the planet’s most infamous surf breaks. With mind-blowing visuals and a pulse-pounding soundtrack, this 60-minute documentary follows Tahitian surfer Heimiti Fierro as she chases monsters of the sea and wrestles with razor-sharp coral just below the surface. Grab a seat close to the screen and you might just feel the saltwater splash.

Marlon Wayans

When: Aug. 21-23, 2025 | Times vary
Where: Addison Improv, 4980 Belt Line Rd #250, Dallas
More info and tickets

Big laughs are on the way when Marlon Wayans takes the mic, bringing his sharp wit and over-the-top energy to the stage. Known for fan favorites like White Chicks and Scary Movie, plus his scene-stealing role in Bel-Air, the comedian and actor delivers the kind of punchlines that make it hard to catch a breath.