Events in Arlington

Arlington hosts a full calendar of can’t-miss events throughout the year, from major sports showdowns to festivals, conventions, and seasonal celebrations. Use the month-by-month highlights below to find what’s happening during your visit and start planning around your interests. Many events take place near Arlington’s marquee venues, like AT&T Stadium, Choctaw Stadium, and the entertainment district, making it easy to pair an event with nearby dining and attractions. Dates and details can change, so be sure to confirm information before you go.

January

Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic

Arlington’s AT&T Stadium knows college football and welcomes fans to the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic each January.

AT&T Stadium
1 AT&T Way
Arlington, TX 76011

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April

The American Rodeo

The American Rodeo features competitors in all eight traditional rodeo disciplines. Fans can root for the underdog “Contenders” chasing a cash bonus and the professional athletes chasing their championship crown. This past year marked a record-breaking payout of $4.6 million to Western sports athletes.

Globe Life Field 
734 Stadium Dr E
Arlington, TX 76011

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May

Lone Star Smokeout

A three-day celebration of country music, award-winning barbecue, and craft beer, Lone Star Smokeout brings together live performances, renowned pitmasters, and a lively festival atmosphere for fans of food and music alike.

AT&T Stadium
1 AT&T Way
Arlington, TX 76011

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October:

Six Flags Fright Fest

Calling all adrenaline junkies! Leave the scaredy cats at home and step into Fright Fest—if you dare. Each fall, Six Flags Over Texas transforms into a Halloween destination filled with haunted attractions, immersive scare zones, eerie entertainment, and thrilling rides after dark. Whether you're looking for spine-chilling frights or festive seasonal fun, Fright Fest delivers a hauntingly unforgettable experience for guests of all ages.

Six Flags Over Texas Boo Fest

If you and your little ones scare easily, opt for Boo Fest! During the day, enjoy family-friendly rides, a trick-or-treat trail, and all sorts of fall festivities without the threat of spooky, scary characters.

Six Flags Over Texas Oktoberfest

Celebrate Oktoberfest this fall with special craft and seasonal brews along with a German-inspired menu.

Six Flags Over Texas
Arlington, TX 76011

Go Ape! Frights at Heights

Are you brave enough to face the terrifying treetops after dark? Face your fears and put your skills to the test with wobbly obstacles, eerie ziplines, and treetop ropes course at Go Ape!

Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park
601 NE Green Oaks Blvd
Arlington, TX 76006

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November

First Thursdays in Downtown Arlington

Grab the family and text the group chat, it’s THE day to be in downtown Arlington! Enjoy a once a month evening of live music, artistic experiences, and exploration at your favorite businesses!

 

The Light Park in Arlington 

The Most EXCITING and ELECTRIFYING Light Show South of the North Pole, The Light Park is a mile-long, drive-thru spectacular that has been heralded as “one of the coolest ways to brighten your holiday season.” At The Light Park, guests will witness millions of lights synchronized to an electric mix of music powered by DJ Polar Ice from the North Pole’s #1 Hit Radio station, K-GLO, as they take in the brightest sights and sounds in the South. Priced per vehicle rather than per person, the more is truly merrier for visitors who want to travel through the longest light tunnel in the world, rock out to the coolest tunes, and celebrate the holiday season with the most Instagram Reel-worthy shots! Tickets must be purchased online in advance for this electrifying experience for all! For more information, visit here.

Hurricane Harbor Arlington
1800 E Lamar Blvd
Arlington, TX 76006

Coca-Cola Classic Christmas

Step into a world of Real Holiday Magic at Coca-Cola's Classic Christmas. This season, cherished holiday traditions come to life at Choctaw Stadium amid a spectacle of dazzling lights. Crafted by the creators of the renowned World's Largest Christmas Light Maze, Enchant Christmas, this immersive holiday celebration promises to create unforgettable moments of togetherness and joy during this beloved time of year.

Choctaw Stadium
1000 Ballpark Way
Arlington, TX 76011.

Texas Christkindl Market

The Texas Christkindl Market has become a valued holiday tradition for Arlington families and visitors alike. Situated on Globe Life Field's North Plaza, adjacent to Texas Live, the market features dozens of vendors who offer wonderful holiday gifts and treats. Visit Santa, enjoy ongoing entertainment, and visit the Kathe Wohlfahrt tent to find a beautiful Christmas gift from this world-renowned German company.

Texas Christkindl Market
1650 E Randol Mill Rd
Arlington, TX 76011

 

Prairie Lights

Celebrate the holiday season at the Prairie Lights Holiday Lights Experience, where millions of dazzling lights create hundreds of festive displays along the scenic shores of Joe Pool Lake at Lynn Creek Park in Grand Prairie. This beloved seasonal tradition features a spectacular drive-through light show, immersive themed displays, and a stunning animated tunnel.

Lake Creek Park 
5610 Lake Ridge Pkwy
Grand Prairie, TX 75052