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![\"DreamFest](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/1779139387_624_articles-dreamfest-2026.jpg\" "\\"DreamFest")
<\/p>\nPublished on May 18, 2026<\/p>\n
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DreamFest is back \u2014 and this year\u2019s celebration comes with a special vibe of hometown pride as Arlington marks its 150th anniversary.<\/p>\n
Over Memorial Day weekend, \u201cArlington\u2019s biggest block party\u201d 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 \u201cThe American Dream City.\u201d<\/p>\n
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\u2019s 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.\u00a0 Friday\u2019s lineup also includes the Parker & Pat Duo, a local jazz, soul and funk act.<\/p>\n
Saturday, May 23 serves as DreamFest\u2019s 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\u2019s theme is Texas country music, featuring Adysen Malek, Mike Ryan and Texas country favorite Wade Bowen.<\/p>\n
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.\u00a0<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
![\"Articles](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/articles-dreamfest-crowd.jpg\"\/)
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Five Things to Know Before You Go:\u00a0
\nHow did DreamFest get started?<\/p>\n
DreamFest is Arlington\u2019s biggest block party \u2014 a free, family-friendly Memorial Day weekend celebration hosted in downtown Arlington at Levitt Pavilion. The event was inspired by Mayor Jim Ross\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n
When and where is everything happening?<\/p>\n
Levitt Pavilion Arlington (100 W. Abram St., across from City Hall)<\/p>\n
\u2022 Friday, May 22: 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Saturday, May 23: 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Sunday, May 24: 7:00 p.m. to 10 p.m.<\/p>\n
Is there anything special about this year’s festival?<\/p>\n
Yes, and here\u2019s a hint: Happy 150th Anniversary, Arlington! This year\u2019s DreamFest is part of Arlington\u2019s yearlong 150th anniversary celebration, giving residents and visitors an opportunity to celebrate the city\u2019s rich history while kicking off the start of summer together in the heart of Downtown.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Since its founding in 1876, Arlington has grown from a humble farming community into one of America\u2019s most vibrant cities \u2014now home to more than 400,000 residents in the heart of the Metroplex.<\/p>\n
DreamFest takes place inside Founders Plaza, home to the Levitt Pavilion and the plaza\u2019s History Garden, which features historical markers highlighting Arlington\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n
To learn more about Arlington\u2019s sesquicentennial, the history of the nation\u2019s 50th-largest city and other anniversary-related events, visit Arlington150.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n What about food, drink and parking?<\/p>\n The DreamFest food truck fleet offers plenty of options: barbecue, tortas, pizza, sweet treats and more, including beer, wine, and soft drinks.\u00a0<\/p>\n It\u2019s getting hot out there, so don\u2019t 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.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n Don’t forget your lawn chair or blanket!\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n 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\u2019t miss any fun!<\/p>\n