Your guide to Fourth of July weekend in Downtown Arlington

As the nation celebrates America’s 250th birthday and Arlington marks its 150th anniversary, the Fourth of July weekend is a great time to get out, explore, and spend time with family, friends, and neighbors. 

From one of the largest Independence Day parades in the country to a full weekend of celebrations across Arlington, Downtown Arlington is a great place to kick off your Fourth of July plans. 

Arlington Independence Day Parade  
9 a.m. Saturday, July 4  

Kick off Fourth of July weekend with a Texas-sized tradition. This year's parade is especially meaningful as Arlington celebrates its 150th anniversary and communities across the nation commemorate America's semiquincentennial, marking the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Expect plenty of patriotic spirit and hometown pride throughout the morning's festivities.

Nothing says Fourth of July in Arlington quite like the Arlington Independence Day Parade. Recognized as the largest Independence Day Parade in Texas and one of the largest in the nation, this beloved community tradition returns to Downtown Arlington for its 61st year.  

This year's theme, "Arlington 150, America 250 – Proud Past, Bright Future," honors two historic milestones while celebrating the community that continues to shape Arlington's future. Longtime Arlington advocates Donna Darovich and O.K. Carter will serve as Grand Marshals, recognizing their decades of contributions to preserving and celebrating Arlington's history.

Bring a lawn chair, claim your spot along the route, and watch marching bands, floats, local groups, and decorated cars make their way through Downtown. 

The Downtown Arlington Management Corporation is proud to once again sponsor the parade, helping connect thousands of attendees with Downtown's locally owned restaurants, shops, and businesses during one of the city's favorite annual traditions. Arrive early to secure a great viewing spot and enjoy breakfast or coffee from one of Downtown’s local favorites before the festivities begin. 

Light Up Arlington  

Note: This year, Light Up Arlington will take place in the Entertainment District rather than Downtown Arlington to accommodate the increased activity and operations surrounding Arlington's international soccer events.

Sunday, July 5 | Fireworks and drone show begin at 9:30 p.m.  

Light Up Arlington returns Sunday night, July 5, as the city’s Independence Day fireworks and drone show. 

Refuel at Downtown Arlington Restaurants  

After the parade, stay Downtown and grab a bite. 

Cool off with an iced drink, sit down for lunch with friends and family, or stop in for something sweet before heading to your next stop for the day. Downtown offers everything from barbecue and burgers to global flavors and coffee shops, all within walking distance of the parade route. 

Looking for ideas? Explore Downtown’s restaurants, patios and local businesses while enjoying the holiday festivities.  

Keep the Holiday Weekend Going  

The Fourth of July falls on a Saturday this year, making it a great opportunity for a full holiday weekend in Arlington. 

Spend Saturday exploring Downtown’s public art, shopping local businesses, or enjoying a stroll through the district before continuing the celebration across the city on Sunday. 

Make It a Downtown Arlington Weekend  

Milestone anniversaries like these don’t come around often. 

As Arlington celebrates 150 years of history and the nation marks America’s 250th birthday, Fourth of July weekend is a chance to enjoy the city, explore local favorites, and spend time with family and friends. 

Whether you’re cheering along the parade route, grabbing a meal Downtown, or continuing the celebration elsewhere in the city, Downtown Arlington is a great place to start your holiday weekend. 

We look forward to seeing you Downtown.