Red, White & Downtown: Fourth of July Festivities in Downtown Arlington

There’s no better place to celebrate Independence Day than the heart of Downtown Arlington. Here you’ll find a front-row seat to all the festive fun happening July 3 and 4. From live music to dazzling fireworks and one of the largest Fourth of July parades in the state of Texas, Downtown Arlington is pulling out all the stops to make this holiday sparkle.

Here’s how to spend the most exciting weekend of the summer with all free festivities:

First Thursdays — Thursday, July 3

Downtown Arlington’s beloved First Thursdays returns with extra sparkle as it seamlessly blends into the Light Up Arlington festivities later that evening. From 5 to 8 p.m., explore interactive art activations, family fun and activities at your favorite local businesses.

• Live Music: Chef Dee will hit the Levitt Pavilion stage at 7 p.m. to open for Brad Thompson, who will take the stage at 8:30 p.m. Musical performances at the DREAM Park Stage will start at 6 p.m. with Young Stars and Guitars, followed by Jimmy Pitstick at 7 p.m.
• Kid-Friendly Fun & More: Head over to City Center Plaza for face painting, the Bubble Bus, Traveling Magicians, and a Community Chalk Mural right next to the air-conditioned Downtown Library offering a rock painting craft activity indoors!
• Cafe Americana: From 6 to 9 p.m., head to Cafe Americana to sip a cocktail at the bar and enjoy a full dining experience while rhythmic music soothes your soul.
• Grease Monkey: Join Grease Monkey Burgers for a prime fireworks viewing party! A special area in the parking lot will allow attendees to set up chairs and pop-up tents to enjoy the spectacular display. Grab delicious food and drinks and enjoy some live music to set the festive mood.
• The Mosaic Market: Mosaic Market will host an all-day extravaganza this First Thursday to celebrate its 1st birthday and gear up for Light Up Arlington! Enjoy captivating live artist demos, participate in the "Sing & Shop,” discover unique treasures with special sales and savor samples from Pixie Pop Gourmet Popcorn.

Light Up Arlington — Thursday, July 3

Fireworks start at approximately 9:50 p.m.

Once the sun begins to set, the city lights up—literally! Light Up Arlington is Downtown’s signature summer celebration, drawing thousands for music, food, family fun and a fireworks finale that’s pure magic.

What’s Happening Where:

• Live Music
  • Levitt Pavilion: Chef Dee (7 p.m.) and Brad Thompson (8:30 p.m.) bring high-energy vibes.
  • DREAM Park Stage: Family-friendly acts Young Stars and Guitars (6 p.m.) and Jimmy Pitstick (7 p.m.) hit the stage.
• Kids Zone Fun
  Bounce houses, games, crafts, glitter tattoos and an air-conditioned activity inside the George W. Hawkes Downtown Library can be found at the City Center Plaza.
• Local Flavor & Vendors
  Food trucks, treats and drinks from local favorites like Division Brewing, Inclusion Coffee and Rita’s Italian Ice will flood the streets.
• Grand Finale Fireworks
  The largest firework show in Arlington will launch from City Hall at approximately 9:50 p.m. and be visible from all around Downtown!

Pro Tip: Arrive early for parking and bring blankets, lawn chairs and your festive spirit!

Independence Day Parade — Friday, July 4

Firecracker 5K begins at 7 a.m.

The tradition continues! The Arlington Independence Day Parade returns for its 60th Diamond Jubilee Year as one of the largest and longest running Fourth of July parades in Texas.

• Theme: "Shining Bright Since ’65"
• Grand Marshal: Chris Cassidy, CEO of the National Medal of Honor Museum
• 120+ Entries: Marching bands, dancers, floats, classic cars and community groups.
• Massive Attendance: Over 75,000 spectators line the route with even more watching live streams. Bring your flags and your loudest cheers!
• Parade Route: Starts at West Street & Mitchell, winds through UTA Boulevard and Center Street and finishes near the UTA campus.

Your All-American Downtown Adventure Awaits

Whether you’re chalking murals with the kids, watching fireworks sparkle across the skyline or waving flags along the parade route, Downtown Arlington is the place to be this Fourth of July. It’s a weekend of unforgettable energy, community spirit and star-spangled celebration.

So grab your friends, wear your red-white-and-blue, and come celebrate freedom, fun, and community in the heart of The American Dream City.