Stories
Jan 28, 2026
First Thursdays Are Back: Downtown Arlington Kicks Off the 2026 Season
If your life could use a little more community, connection, music, art, and creativity, you’re in luck. First Thursdays return to Downtown Arlington February 5, 2026, officially launching another season what has become our most beloved monthly traditions.
On the first Thursday of each month, downtown comes alive as a walkable, vibrant celebration of local businesses, artists, musicians and neighbors coming together. This month, the excitement heats up with a fire performance by Radiant Solz at Rotary DREAM Park. Prepare for breathtaking fire breathing, large-scale props, and dramatic special effects like lycopodium flares, with 30-minute sets at 5:30 PM, 6:30 PM, and 7:30 PM. Known for their “enchanting and high-octane” displays, Radiant Solz blends dance and circus arts into an unforgettable spectacle.
Check back here or follow our social mediafor weather-dependent confirmation before you head out!
To kick off the new season, we talked with a few longtime First Thursdays participants about what these nights look like behind the scenes and why they keep showing up month after month.
Division Brewing: Where Art, Music & Community Meet
For Wade and Tami Wadlington of Division Brewing, First Thursdays are a natural extension of who they already are.
“Division Brewing encourages community activity at each of our businesses—the brewery, pizza kitchen, record store, and outdoor patio,” they said. “We love the diversity and grassroots effort that small businesses and local artists bring to our space.”
Preparation for First Thursday starts early, with social media promotion spotlighting featured artists and performers. Thanks to Division’s built-in stage, lighting, and flexible indoor and outdoor spaces, hosting artists is seamless—rain or shine.
On First Thursdays, the experience expands beyond their usual live music lineup to include painters, glassblowers, potters, and crafters, creating an immersive atmosphere where guests can enjoy food, drinks, and creativity all at once.
“First Thursdays are great nights for us due to the additional promotion and consistency,” they shared. “Families are more apt to attend on those Thursday nights, since weekends are often booked with other activities.”
Some of their most memorable moments have come from repeat art demonstrations—like live glassblowing and pottery—where guests know what’s coming and still can’t wait to return.
Their advice to other businesses considering participation?
“Definitely do it. You’ll create depth in the community, support each other, and build both new and established relationships.”
Downtown Arlington Public Library: A Hallmark-Worthy First Thursday Stop
The Downtown Arlington Public Library brings a different, but equally powerful, energy to First Thursdays.
For Sharon Granado, speaking on behalf of the Downtown Arlington Public Library, First Thursdays are an opportunity to introduce more people to the library and everything it has to offer.
On First Thursdays, the library sees 80–100 visitors on average, with attendance jumping to around 300 people during special activations like July and December. Adult Services librarians and Makerspace staff collaborate in advance to design crafts that are welcoming to all ages and skill levels.
Activities range from watercolor painting and friendship bracelets to holiday ornaments and rock painting, with plans to incorporate more cultural celebrations throughout the year.
One standout memory? December was a chilly night with Santa in the playroom, holiday jazz in the plaza, and ornament crafting with hot chocolate.
“It really felt like a Hallmark moment.”
Beyond the numbers, First Thursdays allow the library to connect with the community in new ways—families, adults, kids, and seniors all sharing space and creativity.
“The downtown area really comes alive on these nights,” Granado said. “There is so much to see" and be a part of the event.
F6 Gallery & Art Lounge: Turning the Sidewalk Into a Stage
For Michael Smith, co-owner of F6 Gallery & Art Lounge alongside Dollie Smith, First Thursdays are about visibility, collaboration, and culture.
“We wanted to help grow and create a more vibrant cultural Downtown Arlington,” Michael said.
Their setup spills onto West Main Street, where DJs spin vinyl, artists create live, and the studio opens early for a weekly open jam. Visitors are invited to participate—playing instruments, using art supplies, and becoming part of the experience.
The result has been real, lasting impact. “We’ve gained exposure, additional sales, booked recording sessions, sold tickets to live performances, and rented our space for private events.”
Their favorite First Thursdays moments are simple but powerful: watching an artist create in real time.
His message to businesses on the fence?
“It’s the perfect opportunity to meet new customers and become a destination.”
February First Thursdays & Beyond
What makes First Thursdays special isn’t just the art, music, or crafts, it’s the people. Families, girls’ nights out, date nights, friend groups, solo explorers meeting new friends, these nights are for everyone.
As we kick off the 2026 First Thursdays season in February, we invite you to experience Downtown Arlington after hours. Enjoy live music from local talents with Street Sounds, step into the shadows with A Night with Poe at Division Brewing, or treat yourself to a romantic evening with a live harp performance by Symphony Arlington. From art and music to community and culture, there’s something for everyone… one Thursday at a time.