Downtown Arlington's
Annual Free Community Events
First Thursdays
First Thursdays is a lively monthly tradition in the heart of Downtown Arlington that brings the community together on the first Thursday of every month. Downtown businesses come alive with live music, local restaurants, and fun, family-friendly activities for all ages. Enjoy a welcoming, walkable atmosphere while connecting with the community, supporting local businesses, and experiencing the vibrant culture of Arlington in a relaxed, festive setting.
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Farmers Market
Join us every Saturday at the corner of Front and Center Streets, where local shops, artisans, and small businesses showcase the best our region has to offer. Stop by between 10 AM and 2 PM, or 9 AM to 1 PM in the summer, to browse farm-fresh produce, baked treats, handmade crafts, locally made goods, and more. Bring your family and friends and enjoy a morning supporting local businesses and discovering something new.
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Levitt Pavilion Concert Season
Experience free live music under the big Texas sky at Levitt Pavilion in Downtown Arlington! The outdoor venue in Founders Plaza hosts more than 50 nights of free concerts each season, featuring everything from Texas country and blues to Latin rhythms, indie, and culturally rich performances. Spread out a blanket, grab a bite from local vendors, and enjoy performances from talented local artists and nationally recognized acts. With special cultural celebrations and family-friendly events throughout the year, there’s always something to enjoy.
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Downtown Arlington Classic Car Show
Start your engines and take a trip down memory lane at the Downtown Arlington Classic Car Show! Held at the Historical Town Center on the first Saturday of June, the annual event brings an incredible collection of vintage and classic cars spanning multiple decades. Explore the impressive vehicles, enjoy live music and local food vendors, and watch as car enthusiasts compete for top honors. Whether you're a longtime car enthusiast or just love a great community event, there’s plenty to see and enjoy.
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St. Patrick's Day
Get ready to sham-rock 'n' roll! Downtown Arlington is the place to celebrate St. Patrick's Day with festive fun centered around Gilligan's annual St. Patrick's Day bash on March 17th. Enjoy the lively atmosphere, local food and drinks, and plenty of Irish-inspired shenanigans throughout downtown. Save the date and check back for a full list of specials, activities, and participating businesses joining in the celebration.
DreamFest Weekend
Celebrate Memorial Day weekend at DreamFest, Levitt Pavilion Arlington's signature annual music festival! Enjoy three days of free live music, family-friendly activities, local vendors, and community fun as Downtown Arlington comes alive for one of the city's favorite holiday weekend traditions. Gather your friends and family, bring a lawn chair or blanket, and enjoy a weekend filled with music, entertainment, and celebration in the heart of Downtown.
Arlington Independence Day Parade
Celebrate Independence Day with the Arlington Independence Day Parade, one of the city's most cherished community traditions and the longest-running and largest 4th of July parade in Texas. The spectacular celebration features more than 120 entries, including marching bands from all six Arlington ISD high schools, colorful floats, antique cars, Scouts, cheerleaders, dance teams, and walking units. Gather with the community for a festive morning celebrating Arlington and the Fourth of July.
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Holiday Lights Parade
The holidays shine a little brighter in Downtown Arlington! Experience one of the most festive nights of the year with the Holiday Lights Parade, where twinkling lights, festive floats, family-friendly activities, and holiday fun fill the downtown streets. Whether you're watching the parade, exploring the neighborhood, or capturing the perfect holiday photo, Downtown Arlington is the perfect place to gather with family and friends and make memories throughout the season.
UTA Homecoming
November marks the beginning of an important tradition in Maverick country: UTA Homecoming. Located just southwest of Downtown Arlington, The University of Texas at Arlington brings students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members together for a week of free festivities and school spirit. Downtown Arlington joins the celebration with its Paint the Town Blue challenge, inviting local businesses to show off their Maverick pride. Come downtown, see which businesses go all out, and join in the homecoming spirit!