Weekend Buzz: July 18-20, 2025
Published on July 17, 2025
By Office of Communication
Here are a few ways you can enjoy your weekend in The American Dream City.
“Beyond Borders: Contemporary Visions of Latin America”
Beyond Borders explores Latin America’s rich cultural heritage, modern identities, and global influence through a vibrant range of contemporary art. This curated exhibit includes works that span topics such as landscapes, iconic figures, current events, and soccer’s cultural significance—highlighting Latin America’s artistic voices in the lead-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Arlington set to host key matches. It takes place starting Friday, July 17, 2025, at Wellspring on Main. The exhibition runs until Thursday, Aug. 28, 2025.
Arlington Pools & Splash Pads Open
Get ready for some fun in the sun! The City of Arlington’s Bad Königshofen Family Aquatic Center, Randol Mill Family Aquatic Center, Allen Bolden Outdoor Pool, Woodland West, & Howard Moore pools and its three free outdoor splash pads are open through Labor Day weekend in early September, while the smaller outdoor pools will close in August. Learn more about hours of operations and summer swim passes.
Six Flags Hurricane Harbor
The largest water park in North Texas is back open daily for the summer. Head over to Six Flags Hurricane Harbor or its website to purchase tickets and passes.
M.C. Escher: Infinite Variations at the Arlington Museum of Art
The Arlington Museum of Art is bringing the mind-bending work of M.C. Escher to Arlington for its summer exhibition through Sunday, August 3, 2025. With over 150 works spanning the career of the graphic designer, M.C. Escher: Infinite Variations explores the metamorphic work of one of the most famous printmakers in modern times. View ticket information about the exhibition.
The Smurf Experience
This 13,000-square-foot, fully immersive attraction will transport families into the heart of Smurf Village. The experience will be held at the Arlington Museum of Art. The 75-minute experience will feature nine mission-based zones filled with interactive scavenger hunts, obstacle courses, virtual reality adventures, meet-and-greets with beloved Smurf characters and more. It's hands-on, high-energy and full of Smurftastic fun for kids and parents alike. The Smurf Experience is not to be missed and is only in Texas until the end of the Summer. Tickets are now available at www.SmurfExperienceUSA.com.
Summerbration at Six Flags Over Texas
Enjoy Summerbration at Six Flags Over Texas — the ultimate summer celebration filled with exclusive, limited-time entertainment. Summer is the season for creating memories with friends and family. Through thrills on your favorite rides, refreshing drinks or indulgent treats, and larger-than-life entertainment, Summerbration at Six Flags Over Texas promises to be the most exciting part of your summer. With an ever-changing lineup of spectacular events and amusement, Summerbration offers a series of exclusive experiences you won’t want to miss. From the western thrills of our classic stunt show, Texas Justice, to the spectacular fireworks display of Star-Spangled Nights presented by M&M’S®, this evolving ensemble of entertainment will make every trip to Six Flags Over Texas uniquely fun. Don’t miss out — like summer, this limited-time celebration won’t last forever. Celebrate summer with us at Six Flags Over Texas!
Little Explorers – Downtown Library
Stop by The Children’s Play Room at the George W. Hawkes Downtown Library on 10 a.m. Fridays for a morning of play-based learning. This come-and-go program will vary week-to-week as librarians explore art, math, science, engineering, and fine motor skills. Join the Arlington Public Library for a playfully discover the world around us! Designed for ages 1-4. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the APL at (817) 459-6900 or by email at LIBYouthServices@arlingtontx.gov.
Family Storytime – Southeast Branch Library
Join the Arlington Public Library’s fabulous library staff to sing, read and wiggle during storytime at the Southeast Branch Library 10:30 a.m. Fridays. This storytime is geared for ages 2-5. They will read books, sing songs, and have an activity after the program each week. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us at (817) 459-6900 or by email at LIBYouthServices@arlingtontx.gov.
Create Something
Are you a dreamer? A thinker? An artist, an inventor, or maybe . . . an entrepreneur? Come see what wondrous work of art or invention you can put together. This program takes place 10:30-11:30 a.m. Friday, July 11, 2025, at the Northeast Branch Library. This is a program for ages 5+, while supplies last, as space is available. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us at (817) 459-6900 or by email at LIBYouthServices@arlingtontx.gov.
Storytime at River Legacy Nature Center
Join for an indoor family story time at the River Legacy Nature Center in partnership with the Arlington Public Library 1:30-2:30 p.m. Friday, July 18, 2025. Listen to themed books and learn about owls with one of the Naturalists. RSVP is required. Limited space available. Bug spray is recommended prior to arrival if you are going to be outside. It can be sunny and warm so prepare for that too. Participants will receive a registration confirmation prior to the event.
Creativity Corner
Swing by the Southeast Branch Library 3-4:30 p.m. Friday, July 18, 2025, and dive into your creativity with this school-age through teen process art program. Each week will have a theme and sensory element to offer us inspiration and guidance as you work to make an original piece of art using a wide array of supplies (including but not limited to buttons, pipe cleaners, baking soda paint, watercolors, yarn). Creativity Corner is part of our Supporting Neurodivergent Access to Programming series. Because this program uses hot glue and some small-sized craft supplies, it is not recommended for very young children. Each week this program is available while supplies last. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us at (817) 459-6900 or by email at LIBYouthServices@arlingtontx.gov.
Calligraphy Workshop
Discover the art of beautiful writing in this hands-on calligraphy workshop 2-4 p.m. Friday, July 18, 2025, at the George W. Hawkes Downtown Library’s [re]Brary Room A & B. Learn basic strokes using pointed nib pens and brush markers. Whether you're a beginner or just curious, this relaxing class is perfect for adding flair to your lettering. This is for adults 18 years of age and older.
Happy Little Accidents – Downtown Library
Join the Arlington Public Library in the George W. Hawkes Downtown Library’s Makerspace for Happy Little Accidents, an acrylic painting program for teens inspired by the beloved Bob Ross, 2:30-4 p.m. Saturday, July 18, 2025! Beginner or advanced, all are welcome. Paint together, embrace your happy little accidents, and meet some new friends. All materials will be provided. This program is intended for ages 13 - 17 only. Registration required; limited to the first eight participants.
Texas Rangers host Detroit Tigers
Your hometown Rangers host the Detroit Tigers for a three-game weekend set at Globe Life Field. First pitches are scheduled for 7:05 p.m. Friday, July 18, 6:05 p.m. Saturday, July 19, and 6:10 p.m. Sunday, July 20, 2025. View ticket information on the Rangers’ website.
Show at Arlington Music Hall
The Arlington Music Hall has a shows you can enjoy starting 8 p.m. Friday, July 18, 2025, it’s Live and Let Die: The Music of Paul McCartney and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, July 19, 2025, it’s Vic’s 70th Birthday Bash featuring The Pengwins.
Canines & Coffee at the Doggie Depot
Get ready to kickstart your Saturday morning with the ultimate combination of coffee, community, and canine fun! Downtown Arlington invites you and your furry best friend to our inaugural Canine & Coffee event 8-10 a.m. Saturday, July 19, 2025. This free event is designed for dog lovers and their pups to socialize and enjoy the fresh air at the brand-new Downtown Arlington Doggie Depot. We're thrilled to feature a pop-up coffee experience from local favorite, Inclusion Coffee, selling delicious beverages to start your day right.
Downtown Arlington Farmers Market
The Downtown Arlington Farmers Market runs every Saturday through November from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the parking lot at the corner of Front and Center Streets. The market will feature fresh, locally-source produce, unique artisan goods and community connection.
American Red Cross Blood Drive
Help save lives and bring relief to thousands in your community by donating at this blood drive hosted by the American Red Cross 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, July 19, 2025, at the East Library and Recreation Center. Donating blood is quick and easy and donors report feeling a sense of great satisfaction after making their blood donation. Schedule a time to give blood and enter: Arlingtonlibrary.
Spice Club
At Spice Club, you will learn about a different spice every month. Attend to discover a spice and receive a take-and-make kit featuring a variety of unique spices, herbs, or blends. Check out new cookbooks and recipes or bring a favorite recipe of yours to share! This month you will learn Herb Gardening at Spice Club, 12-1 p.m. Saturday, July 19, 2025, at the Southeast Branch Library’s Community Room. Spice of the month kits are free, but supplies are limited. Please, only one kit per household. No registration required.
3D Printing for Beginners Ages 9+
Learn the basics of the 3D Printing process and watch your design take shape before your eyes in the 3D printer 2-4 p.m. Saturday, July 19, 2025, at the George W. Hawkes Downtown Library’s Tinker Room.
This class is limited to the first 8 in attendance and is appropriate for ages 9+. Children ages 9-12 must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the class.
Family Craft Time: Weekend Special
Prefer to craft on the weekend? Gather the family and head over to the Southeast Branch 2-4 p.m. Saturday, July 19, 2025, for a fun afternoon of DIY crafts! Free supplies will be provided for themed activities celebrating the summer season, creativity and collaboration. This is a come-and-go event. Themed crafts are intended for ages 5+. Parents and caregivers must be present and are encouraged to join in on the fun. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us at (817) 459-6900 or by email at LIBYouthServices@arlingtontx.gov.
Paws to Read
Practice reading aloud with a canine friend! Heart of Texas Therapy Dogs is partnering with the Arlington Public Library to bring dogs for children to read with. Reading to dogs helps young readers improve their skills in a relaxed, friendly environment 2:30-3:30 p.m. July 19, 2025, at the Southwest Branch Library’s Community Room. Bring your own book or borrow one of ours. There will be sign-ups to read with the therapy dogs before the program begins. Space is limited to the number of dogs available. This program is for ages 5 - 12 only. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us at (817) 459-6900 or by email at LIBYouthServices@arlingtontx.gov.
Fight Night Live!
Fight Night Live! is the ultimate watch party for the upcoming UFC 318 match at Texas Live! Grab your crew and catch all the action in Rangers Republic, 9 p.m. Saturday, July 19, 2025. Doors open at 7 p.m. Enjoy multiple screens for viewing, drink specials, live entertainment, games, giveaways and more. View ticket information.
Sunday Brunch
Ventana Grille at the Tierra Verde Golf Club clubhouse is now serving brunch from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. each Sunday. Menu items include four savory Eggs Benedict entrées, Shrimp-N-Grits, Ginger Salmon, and their favorite - Napoleon's Last Meal, a buttermilk fried chicken breast over bourbon French toast and served with maple syrup! Guests can also order their à la carte menu, making the Sunday Brunch a great option for families, picky eaters or those with smaller appetites. Reservations Welcomed: 817-548-5047.