Weekend Buzz: July 25-27, 2025

Published on July 24, 2025

People sitting at a table playing board game.

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 at Wellspring on Main 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. 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 25, 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.

Innovate Arlington Board Game Day at ACTIV (50+)

What if you could help shape Arlington’s future by playing a game? As part of the Innovate Arlington Comprehensive Plan process, residents are invited to play Growing a Better Arlington, a new, interactive board game that puts you in the role of managing the city's future. Through fun and thoughtful gameplay, participants will make decisions about where people should live, work, learn and play in The American Dream City. This event takes place 12-5 p.m. Friday, July 25, 2025, at the ACTIV. It is for adults 50 years of age and older. Designed for 2 to 6 players, the game challenges teams to balance growth, resources, and quality of life while building a city together. Players will use “Dream Coins” to fund projects like housing, parks, and infrastructure, all while responding to surprise events and community needs. The goal: to meet Arlington’s future growth trajectories without compromising the character that makes the city unique.

Creativity Corner

Swing by the Southeast Branch Library 3-4:30 p.m. Friday, July 25, 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.

Texas Rangers host the Atlanta Braves

Your hometown Rangers host the Atlanta Braves for a three-game weekend set at Globe Life Field. First pitches are scheduled for 7:05 p.m. Friday, July 25, 6:05 p.m. Saturday, July 26, and 1:35 p.m. Sunday, July 27, 2025. View ticket information on the Rangers’ website.

Show at Arlington Music Hall

The Arlington Music Hall has a shows you can enjoy starting 7:30 p.m. Friday, July 25, 2025, it’s MJ LIVE: Michael Jackson Tribute Concert and 7 p.m. Saturday, July 26, 2025, it’s Donny Edwards-An Authentic Heart & Soul Tribute to THE KING.

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.

Sensory Swim

Head out to Howard Moore Play Pool from 9-11 a.m. Saturday, July 26, 2025, for a supervised swim for children with special needs. This event is limited to 40 attendees. Children with special needs, their caregivers, and families are invited. Each individual needs to register (all ages).

Money and Me

Start the new school year by building smart money habits as a family at Money and Me 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the George W. Hawkes Downtown Library’s [re]Brary Room A & B. Money and Me is a fun, engaging way to build financial confidence and skills as a family. Learning about money early helps families make informed choices, plan for the future and achieve long-term financial stability.

What to Expect

  • Activity tables – Local organizations will host interactive stations that make financial literacy exciting and easy to understand.
  • YMCA’s Y on the Fly – The YMCA will bring outdoor games and activities to get everyone moving and playing together.
  • Free backpack – Each child will receive a “passport” that gets stamped as they complete activities. Once all stamps are collected, they’ll earn a backpack.

Workshop Schedule

Kids in K–5th grade and their parents can join hands-on sessions that make learning about money fun:

10:30 – 11:30 a.m.

  • Earning Money — presented by Chase Bank
  • Weighing Needs and Wants — presented by YSCO Consulting

11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

  • Saving and Spending — presented by Chase Bank
  • Setting Goals — presented by Prosperity Bank

Money and Me is hosted by United Way of Tarrant County–Greater Arlington’s Financial Stability Partnership Subcommittee, a team of staff, community members and local agencies promoting self-sufficiency programs and resources.

Silent Book Club

The book club with no assigned reading and no pressure! They meet once a month at local spots around Arlington & Grand Prairie to read, drink, and be in community with other bookworms. Bring any book you choose, enjoy some refreshments, and stay for optional socializing just before and after the reading time. Meetup location is Just Love Coffee Cafe located at 1020 Mayfield Rd. Suite 600 in Grand Prairie from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, July 26, 2025.

Baha Bark Fest

Head over to the East Library and Recreation Center as the Arlington Parks and Recreation's Department celebrates 25 years of the iconic hit Who Let the Dogs Out by the Baha Men! This free event from 12-3 p.m. Saturday, July 26, 2025, will be packed with tail-wagging fun, including dog-friendly snacks, exciting pet-and-parent competitions, and heartwarming adoption opportunities. Whether you're a longtime fan of the song or just looking for a great day out with your furry friend, this all-ages event is sure to be a howling good time! Come ready to bark, play, and maybe even find a new four-legged friend to take home!

Wiring Wrapping for beginners

Come learn how to wire wrap and learn the basics of beaded jewelry making. Release your creativity and take a beaded project home! This class takes place 2-4 p.m. Saturday, July 26, 2025, at the George W. Hawkes Downtown Library’s Tinker Room. It is limited to the first 12 in attendance and is appropriate for ages 9+. It is asked that adults with children 9-12 attend the class.

Shine Album Premiere

April Sha’Lil’s debut hip hop album, SHINE, isn’t just a release — it’s a moment. It takes place 7-9 p.m. Saturday, July 26, 2025, at the Dr. Marcelo Cavazos Center for Visual & Performing Arts. Rooted in truth and layered with bars, visuals, and purpose, this project was created while everything around her was shifting. Now it’s here — honest, unfiltered, and empowering. This premiere is your first look. Learn more about tickets. NO REFUNDS OR EXCHANGES. Virtual ticket orders will receive access to the Virtual Screening Experience within 5 business days of purchase.

Heavy Metal Hall of Fame

Elmo Jones Productions proudly presents Southern Kaos, performing live with special guests Hedonistic Punk Vatos. Join for an unforgettable night featuring art, music, and community at the Heavy Metal Hall of Fame Saturday, July 26, 2025. Doors open at 7 p.m., with displays and exhibits available for viewing until 9 p.m.. The show kicks off with Karma Inc. at 9 p.m., followed by Hedonistic Punk Vatos from 9:00 to 9:45 PM, and Southern Kaos taking the stage at 10:00 PM until close. Tickets are $15 in advance or at the door (cash or card), but only 50 are available for this event—advance purchase is highly recommended, as door sales will only occur if tickets do not sell out online. The event is all ages, with no additional charge for minors. Guests can enjoy free beer, and BYOB is welcome. The hall closes at the end of Reverend Dirt’s performance. Please note: the venue opens at different times on different dates, and live bands perform on Saturday nights only, except for special events—of which many are planned.

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.

The Bloomverse Expo

Plants by Viridiana presents happening on 12-5 p.m. Sunday, July 27th, 2025 at the St. Jude Event Center. This event is centered around rare and exotic houseplants, and will feature:

  • Over 30 local and national plant vendors
  • A free community plant swap
  • Art, handmade goods, and educational resources
  • A welcoming and inclusive space for plant lovers of all backgrounds

Wings host Los Angeles Sparks

WNBA squad, the Wings, host the Phoenix Mercury 3 p.m. Saturday, July 27, 2025, at College Park Center. For more information, click here