June 11, 2009

Light Up Arlington is July 3
Fireworks Show Moves to the Downtown/University District

This year, Arlington’s annual Light Up the Lake Independence Day celebration moves to the Downtown/University District with a new name. Light Up Arlington is Friday, July 3.
City organizers say the move will help accommodate larger crowds and provide quality staging areas for live musical performances, children’s activities, vendors and fireworks. Light Up Arlington begins at 5 p.m. Fireworks will begin at 9:45 p.m. from atop the eight-story Municipal Office Tower.

Maggie Campbell, president and CEO of the Downtown Arlington Management Corporation, said bringing the popular event downtown is part of the vision for the Downtown/University District as the ceremonial heart of the city.

“With our new park and pavilion, and annual Independence Day Parade, we are tying all of this together for an exciting weekend of entertainment, children’s activities and fireworks,” Campbell said. “Our vision for the Downtown/University District is a vibrant place where the community celebrates.”

According to Parks Marketing Manager Kelly Drawdy, moving the event from the lake to downtown will enhance safety and create more entrance and exit points. Light Up the Lake started in 2007 with about 5,000 spectators and grew to more than 15,000 in 2008.
Celebrations continue in Arlington on July 4 with the 44th Annual Independence Day Parade, which features about 150 decorative floats, marching bands and more than 3,000 participants. The event attracts more than 50,000 spectators. The parade begins at 9 a.m. This year’s theme is “Commemorating Our National Monuments and Memorials.”

Following the Texas Rangers’ home games against Tampa Bay on July 3 and 4, residents can also enjoy fireworks at the Rangers Ballpark in Arlington.

For a complete schedule of Light Up Arlington events, live music performances, vendor information packets and more, visit www.naturallyfun.org or call Arlington Parks and Recreation at 817-459-5474. For information about the Independence Day Parade, visit www.arlington4th.com.