Stories
Feb 26, 2026
Spring is Coming to Downtown Arlington
Longer days. Warmer breezes. Patios filling back up.
Spring is right around the corner in Downtown Arlington, and if winter had you in hibernation mode, consider this your official invitation to get back out there.
The trees are starting to bud, the sunshine is sticking around a little later each evening, and Downtown is ready to welcome you back with open arms (and plenty of events on the calendar).
Shake Off the Winter Slump & Make a Spring Bucket List
We get it - January and February are for cozy nights in, comfort food and maybe a few “we’ll go next month” plans. But March in Downtown Arlington is when everything comes alive again.
It’s the season for:
- Patio lunches and after-work happy hours
- Browsing local boutiques at your own pace
- Strolling instead of sprinting from one spot to the next
- Saying yes to live music, pop-ups and community events.
If you’ve been meaning to explore that new shop, try that cafe you keep driving past or reconnect with friends over dinner - now’s the time.
First Thursdays Are Back in Full Bloom
One of the best ways to ease back into your social calendar? First Thursdays.
On the first Thursday of every month, Downtown Arlington transforms into an evening celebration of local flavor and community. Businesses stay open late, sidewalks fill with energy and there’s always something new to discover.
March 5 First Thursday:
Musical Instrument Petting Zoo with Coyote Music Studio
When: Thursday, March 5 | 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Where: City Center Plaza, Downtown Arlington
Classes: 5:00 PM, 6:00 PM, & 7:00 PM
The Instrument Petting Zoo is a 10x10 playground of sound where kids can get "up close and personal" with drums, keyboards, guitars, ukuleles, xylophones, and more.
Live Corndog & Hotdog Portrait Art
When: Thursday, March 5 | 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Where: Division Brewing (506 E Main St)
Have you ever wondered what you’d look like as a hot dog or a corn dog? Get those burning questions answered this month as we head over to Division Brewing for a night of quirky art and specialty eats.
Live Portraits: Get a free custom hot dog or corn dog portrait of yourself (or your pup!) by artist Becca Waugh.
The Gallery: Peruse Becca’s specialized gallery of corn and hot dog-themed art.
The Kitchen: Grab specialty hot dogs and corn dogs straight from the Division Brewing menu.
School of Rock Busker Showcase
When: Thursday, March 5th | 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Where: Rotary DREAM Park
This high-energy performance features a rotating lineup of students and instructors performing rock, pop, and soul hits in a stripped-back, outdoor setting. Experience the "School of Rock Method" in action as musicians from the Rock 101 and Performance Programs take the stage
No matter the month, you can always expect:
- Live music drifting through the streets
- Specials and promotions from local shops and restaurants
- Pop-up vendors and creative experiences
- A relaxed, welcoming vibe that makes it easy to wander
It’s perfect for meeting friends after work or turning an ordinary weeknight into something memorable. Make a plan to visit one spot you already love and one you’ve never tried before. That’s how new favorites are born.
See You Out There
Downtown Arlington is ready for the return of patio season, spontaneous weeknight outings and the kind of community moments that only happen when we show up.
Spring is coming - and there’s no better place to enjoy it than right here in Downtown!