Stories
May 21, 2026
DreamFest Returns to Downtown Arlington
We’ve got your Memorial Day weekend plans covered. DreamFest 2026 returns to Downtown Arlington for three days of free live music under the stars from May 22–24 at the Levitt Pavilion.
Known as Arlington’s biggest block party, the annual festival fills Downtown Arlington with live music, local vendors and family-friendly fun. This year’s celebration comes with an extra touch of hometown pride as Arlington marks its 150th anniversary.
Friday, May 22: Opening Night at Levitt Pavilion

DreamFest kicks off at 7 p.m. with an evening of Motown-inspired music at the Levitt Pavilion in Downtown Arlington.
The night brings classic Motown sounds to Downtown Arlington with soulful hits, upbeat energy and the style of the female groups that helped define the era. Parker & Pat Duo open the evening before Martha and the Vandellas take the stage.
Limited Arlington 150 merchandise will also be available Friday night while supplies last.
Saturday, May 23: DreamFest Market & Main Event
From 5 to 10 p.m., Downtown Arlington comes alive with the DreamFest Market, filling the streets with vendors and live music.
Guests can shop local, enjoy lawn games and experience face painting and other activities throughout the evening.
Saturday’s music lineup features Adysen Malek, Mike Ryan and headliner Wade Bowen, bringing a full night of Texas country music to the Levitt stage.
Sunday, May 24: Tejano Finale
DreamFest closes out Sunday night starting at 7 p.m. with a Tejano celebration at Levitt Pavilion.
The evening opens with Grupo Pression followed by Marcos Orozco, wrapping up the weekend with a high-energy finale in the heart of Downtown Arlington.
Before and After DreamFest
Make a full Memorial Day weekend by exploring everything Downtown Arlington has to offer before and after the shows.
Local Eateries and Shops

Stroll through Downtown Arlington to enjoy a variety of restaurants, vintage stores and boutiques, offering everything from casual bites to one-of-a-kind finds. Downtown dining options include restaurants such as Cane Rosso, Old School Pizza Tavern, and Acapulquito Taqueria Bar & Grill, along with a variety of other cuisines. Explore the full list of dining and drink options here.
Looking for retail therapy? Downtown is home to local shops like Deep Dive Vintage, Wondrous Works Gift Shop, Mosaic Market and more.
For a little pre-fest fun, check out Tokyo Station and Cidercade for games and interactive entertainment, or take a stroll through Rotary Dream Park before the show. Explore the full list of shops and activities here.

Sip Local
Head to Downtown Arlington’s pubs, breweries and coffee shops for locally brewed craft beer or grab a coffee and pastry from nearby cafés like Arlington Coffee Roasters before heading to the festival.
On Saturday, May 23, stop by Division Brewing for a special Arlington 150 beer release celebrating the city’s 150th anniversary. See the full list of Downtown Arlington pubs, breweries and coffee shops here.
Know Before You Go
- DreamFest takes place at Levitt Pavilion Arlington (101 E Abram, across from City Hall). Hours are 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday and 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday.
- Admission and parking are free.
- As Arlington celebrates 150 years, limited-edition Arlington 150 merchandise will be available Friday night while supplies last.
- Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating on the lawn.
- Sealed water bottles are permitted, and bottled water will also be available for purchase at the Levitt Information Tent.
- Free parking is available in public downtown lots and garages. Guests should avoid private parking lots, which may enforce towing policies during large events.
- Comfortable shoes, sunscreen and early arrival are encouraged.
Find out more about DreamFest and upcoming Levitt events at levittpavilionarlington.org