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May 1, 2025

What's Next in Downtown Arlington: May Monthly Update

Spring is in full bloom, and Downtown Arlington is buzzing with excitement! Let’s take a look ahead at the amazing things you can expect in Downtown Arlington this May — and everything that made April unforgettable. 

Look Ahead 

The Arlington Cultural District packed with great events and programs in May! Here's what’s coming up: 

First Thursdays (May 2) 

Downtown’s favorite monthly celebration is back with even more to see and do! On May 2, join us from 5 to 8 p.m. for an unforgettable night featuring: 

  • UTA Takeover: Downtown Arlington is thrilled to showcase the incredible talent of the University of Texas at Arlington in a dynamic "UTA Takeover" event! Experience an evening of diverse performances and artistic expression, featuring: 
    • 5 to 5:45 p.m.- Kick off the evening with the smooth sounds of UTA Jazz Combo. 
    • 6 to 7 p.m.- Immerse yourself in the energy of African dance with Professor Laurie Taylor, accompanied by live percussion with professor Chris Nadeau and witness the creation of a responsive painting. The community is invited to join in the dance and contribute to the painting! 
    • 7 to 8 p.m.- Conclude the night with the rich harmonies of a UTA Saxophone Ensemble. During this time, attendees can mingle and view the completed responsive painting. 
  • Meet the Author- Brandon Hurtado: Head to the SFC building for a special book signing with Brandon Hurtado, author of the acclaimed book, “Barbacoa: The Heart of Texas-Mex BBQ,” that has now sold over 10,000 copies! Meet Hurtado and get your book signed. 

In celebration of #BikeMonth, Veo is sponsoring Downtown Arlington’s First Thursday. Need a ride to the event? Hop on a Veo shared scooter or bike and use code BIKEMONTH25 for $5 off your ride. 

P.S. Are you an avid rider and want more parking options? Fill out Veo’s short parking survey here. 

Find all this and more with over 25 businesses participating in this month’s event. Whether you’re an art lover or just out for a good time, First Thursdays has something for everyone. 

  

Levitt Pavilion’s Spring Season 

The Levitt’s spring concert season continues through May with shows every Friday and Saturday. Enjoy an incredible mix of national touring acts and local talent covering country, pop, Latin, blues and more. 

  • DreamFest 2025: Their biggest event of the spring is coming up – DreamFest 2025! The three-day, annual event is happening May 23 through 25. 

The block-party style festival features free live music, food trucks, vendors and family-friendly activities.

Arlington Music Hall 

Another season of entertainment is also in full swing at the historic Arlington Music Hall. The state-of-the-art venue offers an unparalleled experience for music enthusiasts, hosting a dynamic lineup of performances that will captivate your senses. 

Theatre Arlington 

For 51 years, Theatre Arlington has provided the Downtown Arlington community with high-quality performances. And the upcoming show will be no different.  

“The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time” will hit center stage May 9 through 25 every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.  

The plot: 15-year-old Christopher has an extraordinary brain but ill-equipped to interpret everyday life. He has never ventured alone. Now it is 7 minutes after midnight, and Christopher stands beside his neighbor’s dead dog who has been speared with a garden fork. Finding himself under suspicion, Christopher is determined to solve the mystery, but his detective work takes him on a thrilling journey that upturns his world. 

Doggie Depot Yappy Hour 

Enjoy music, yard games, cocktails and opportunities to socialize and connect with fellow dog owners and their pups at the next Yappy Hour from 5 to 7 p.m. May 15.  

Hooligan's Pub will be serving up refreshing drinks for the humans 21 and up. It's the perfect way to socialize, enjoy the outdoors and celebrate at our new dog park! 

Attendance is free. RSVP here to let us know you and your pup are joining! 

 

Classic Car Show Registration 

Calling all classic car enthusiasts! Registration is open throughout May for the Downtown Arlington Classic Car Show, happening June 7. Spots fill up quickly, so register today! 

Register Here

 

Looking Back 

April was packed with energy, art and community spirit. The Downtown Arlington Farmers Market continued to bring fresh food and unique vendors every Saturday, while another First Thursdays came and went with an incredible night of music, live performances and pop-up experiences across downtown. 

We also celebrated the kickoff of the Levitt Pavilion’s 2025 free concert season, welcoming big crowds to the lawn for live music under the stars — and the concerts continue all season long! 

April also brought exciting news for car lovers: the Downtown Arlington Classic Car Show is officially returning on June 7, 2025! Gather the kids, text the family group chat and come ready for a free festival of fun from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Vandergriff Town Center, outside the Arlington Music Hall. Attendees can awe over the 200+ classic cars, enjoy live music and try some local food. 

 

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