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FIRST THURSDAYS ARE THE NIGHT TO BE IN DOWNTOWN ARLINGTON

Grab the family and text the group chat, it’s THE day to be in downtown Arlington! Enjoy once a month evening of live music, artistic experiences, and exploration at your favorite businesses!

Our next installation of this event will be Thursday, April 2nd from 5-8pm. Events and specials will be announced 2 weeks ahead of each event! 

Supported by

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April Featured Attractions

Featured Attraction: Downtown Lens - A Guided Photo Walk with Arlington Camera: 

Grab your camera – whether it's your phone or a DSLR – and join Arlington Camera for a fun and social photo walk through the vibrant scene of Downtown Arlington's First Thursdays! 

From 5-8 PM, meet the Arlington Camera crew at City Center Plaza and embark on a guided exploration to capture the unique energy, art, people, and details that make this event special. Get tips on capturing dynamic street scenes and participate in a friendly online photo contest the following week for a chance to win a gift card! Registration is limited and required. To learn more and to register - click the link. 

Register Here

Featured Attraction: Arlington Amplified presents: Street Sounds 

Experience the vibrant sounds of Downtown Arlington this First Thursdays on March 5th from 5-8 PM! Our featured attraction, "Street Sounds," brings talented Arlington Amplified artists to various locations throughout Downtown. As part of Arlington's "Music Friendly Community" initiative, these local musicians will create a fun musical atmospheres for your evening stroll and shopping experience. Enjoy artist Victor Torino on the sidewalk corner next to Amore Mio & enjoy the sounds of Ian Gillies in front of Wellspring across from Worthington Bank and next to Gene Allen Park. 

Featured Attraction: Downtown Sounds 

Downtown Sounds brings curated live music to the sidewalks of Downtown, hosted by Downtown Arlington!

Keep an ear out for this month’s featured performers:

  • Patrick Pombuena: Performing live on the sidewalk 
  • Symphony Arlington: Catch a world-class musician busking along Front Street through our special community partnership. 

Follow the music as you shop, dine and explore the vibrant spirit of our downtown community!

Check out our Interactive Google Map: 

Use our Google Map to plan your First Thursday: April First Thursday Map

Be sure to come early to visit these participating businesses and their activations for our April First Thursday event:  

  • Create Wellspring: “TBA”
  • Rocketbelly: “TBA”
  • Kung Fu Tea: “TBA”
  • Ann’s Natural Grocer: "TBA”
  • J. Gilligan’s: “TBA”
  • Camia Rhea: “TBA”
  • Tokyo Station: “Super Smash Bros Tournament ($) - Battle it out in a Super Smash Bros. Tournament starting at 7:00 PM this First Thursday! Entry is $5—visit Tokyo Station’s website or social media for full rules and registration details. 
  • Big Brothers Big Sisters: “TBA”
  • Donna’s Gift Closet: “TBA”
  • Lacquer Box Nail Salon: “TBA”
  • Canvas & Co.: "Headshots & Highlights” - Step into the spotlight at Canvas & Co. Studio! Enjoy complimentary professional headshots (edited and emailed to you) and take a guided tour of their state-of-the-art podcast and content creation spaces.
  • Space Monkey Tattoo: “TBA”
  • Deep Dive Vintage: “TBA”
  • Downtown Arlington Library: “Creative Corner” - Explore our makerspace and discover the exciting possibilities of technology and craft. And don't forget to enjoy our family-friendly games in the lobby. Thank you to the Friends and Foundation of the Arlington Public Library for their generous support of our programming.
  • Fool’s Kava: “Gamer Night” - THURSDAY = GAME DAY at Fool’s Kava House! Sip some kava and get your game on all day long with our PC, console, and VR setups. Whether you're here for the skills or just the vibes, come chill and level up your First Thursday with us. Enjoy $15 All-You-Can-Drink Kava specials.
  • Truth Serum: “Vinyl & Karaoke” - Enjoy exclusive drink specials available throughout the evening while you browse the stacks of curated vinyl. Stick around as the energy picks up for their popular Karaoke session starting at 7:00 PM. It’s the perfect night to shop for records, enjoy a drink, and sing your heart out!
  • Amore Mio: “TBA”
  • The Mosaic Market: “TBA”
  • Wondrous Works Gift Shop: “TBA”
  • Goldilink’s: “TBA”
  • Inclusion Coffee: “TBA”
  • STASH VHS: ”Thrifty Thursdays & Game Night” - Head inside the shop for a classic video game night and outside, you can challenge friends to a game of cornhole. While you're there, be sure to take advantage of their special Thrifty Thursday deals! 
  • F6 Art Lounge: “Art & Music Showcase”- Join us for a vibrant evening of art and music at F6 for Downtown Arlington’s First Thursday. From 5-7pm, explore the art gallery and connect with local artists. At 7pm, check out the Open Jam Session. Show off your musical skills or simply enjoy the sounds of local musicians. Our open jam sessions are open to all levels, so come and join in the fun!
  • Arlington Music Hall ($): ”TBA”
  • Chosen One Tattoo: “Gallery Night & Tours” - Step inside for a tour of rare global art led by the studio’s owner and immerse yourself in the creative side of Downtown. Guests can grab a free goodie bag and enter an exclusive free tattoo raffle for a chance to take home some permanent art!
  • Mi Tesoro Thrift: “TBA”
  • Acapulquito Taqueria Bar & Grill (Formerly Los Molcas): “Free Salsa Night” - Spice up your First Thursday with the rhythmic energy of Free Salsa Night! Formerly known as Los Molcas, the newly reimagined Acapulquito Taqueria Bar & Grill invites you to experience their fresh ownership and vibrant atmosphere. Whether you're a pro or a beginner, come for the dancing and stay for the authentic tacos and drinks in the heart of the district.

Coming Soon…

Interested in volunteering for First Thursdays? Fill out our form here