DreamFest is back — and this year’s celebration comes with a special vibe of hometown pride as Arlington marks its 150th anniversary.
Over Memorial Day weekend, “Arlington’s biggest block party” returns to the Levitt Pavilion for three nights of free live music, food, vendors and family fun, transforming the heart of downtown into a lively celebration of community, culture and the spirit of “The American Dream City.”
The festivities begin at 7 p.m. Friday, May 22, with an evening of Motown-inspired music headlined by legendary group Martha and the Vandellas, known for iconic hits that helped define one of America’s most beloved music eras. Each evening of DreamFest will also spotlight emerging young performers through the Levitt Youth Spotlight program, which highlights promising local student artists. Friday’s lineup also includes the Parker & Pat Duo, a local jazz, soul and funk act.
Saturday, May 23 serves as DreamFest’s main event, with festivities beginning at 5 p.m. Guests can browse a robust vendor market and enjoy food trucks and family-friendly activities like face painting and lawn games before the concerts begin. Saturday’s theme is Texas country music, featuring Adysen Malek, Mike Ryan and Texas country favorite Wade Bowen.
The weekend concludes Sunday, May 24 with a Tejano celebration featuring Levitt fan favorite Grupo Pression, followed by acclaimed Tejano artist Marcos Orozco. The concert begins at 7 p.m.
Throughout the weekend, guests can enjoy a variety of food trucks, plus shopping from a vendor market featuring gifts, apparel, art and other locally made artisan items.
DreamFest is Arlington’s biggest block party — a free, family-friendly Memorial Day weekend celebration hosted in downtown Arlington at Levitt Pavilion. The event was inspired by Mayor Jim Ross’s vision of creating a free community gathering that celebrates the spirit of Arlington: The American Dream City. What began as a one-day event has grown into a three-night festival featuring live music, vendors, food and activities for all ages.
Levitt Pavilion Arlington (100 W. Abram St., across from City Hall)
Yes, and here’s a hint: Happy 150th Anniversary, Arlington! This year’s DreamFest is part of Arlington’s yearlong 150th anniversary celebration, giving residents and visitors an opportunity to celebrate the city’s rich history while kicking off the start of summer together in the heart of Downtown.
Since its founding in 1876, Arlington has grown from a humble farming community into one of America’s most vibrant cities —now home to more than 400,000 residents in the heart of the Metroplex.
DreamFest takes place inside Founders Plaza, home to the Levitt Pavilion and the plaza’s History Garden, which features historical markers highlighting Arlington’s founders and history near City Hall and the George W. Hawkes Downtown library. Be sure to stop by the library at 100 S. Center St. to pick up your free Arlington 150th anniversary yard sign and collectable stickers! A limited number of signs and stickers will be available to pick up at DreamFest on Friday, May 22.
To learn more about Arlington’s sesquicentennial, the history of the nation’s 50th-largest city and other anniversary-related events, visit Arlington150.com.
The DreamFest food truck fleet offers plenty of options: barbecue, tortas, pizza, sweet treats and more, including beer, wine, and soft drinks.
It’s getting hot out there, so don’t forget to stay hydrated. Sealed water bottles are permitted at the Levitt, and bottled water will also be available for purchase at the Levitt Information Tent.
Not only is admission to DreamFest free, you can also take advantage of free parking available throughout downtown Arlington in public lots and garages. Guests are encouraged to stick to official public parking areas, such as City of Arlington lots and buildings, rather than private lots, which may enforce towing policies during large events.
DreamFesters are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating on the Levitt lawn. Comfortable shoes and sunscreen are also suggested, along with early arrival so you can claim your favorite spot – and to make sure you don’t miss any fun!
Find out more about DreamFest and upcoming Levitt events at levittpavilionarlington.org.