By Richard Dawson
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As the weekend kicks off in Arlington, the city comes alive with a bevy of events ranging from solemn memorials to high-energy family fun. Starting with a special nod to the past, the Arlington Veterans Park Memorial Foundation is set to host its “American Soldier 9/11, a Tribute to Toby Keith” Thursday evening at Levitt Pavilion Arlington. The tribute promises to be a heartfelt event, with all proceeds supporting local veterans through the foundation. Meanwhile, the Arlington Music Hall ticks the boxes for country and rock enthusiasts, showcasing The Malpass Brothers and Michael Hix Live, on respective days.
For families looking to dive into a world of blue, The Smurf Experience at the Arlington Museum of Art presents an interactive dream for the little ones—and let’s be real, probably more than a few grown-ups, too. Nine mission-based zones filled with VR adventures and Smurf encounters can surely entertain across generations. As reported by the City of Arlington, tickets are available for what’s being billed as a “Smurftastic” adventure.
Not to be overlooked, the George W. Hawkes Downtown Library invites tots to play and learn with their Little Explorers program, while the Southeast Branch Library offers Family Storytime to spark young imaginations. Aspiring tech gurus ages 9-12 have the chance to get hands-on at CS4Kids, teaching them the ins and outs of a computer in an eight-week course. Adding to the melodic vibe, Arlington Parks & Recreation’s Summer Music Series at the Texas Rangers Golf Club is an acoustic affair to be enjoyed with wine and whiskey specials.
Come Friday, Rhett Miller and the “surprise guest” Josh Weathers take center stage for a noble cause at the Do It For Durrett Foundation, with every dollar from ticket sales funneled into helping families struck by sudden loss. Levitt Pavilion keeps the musical momentum going with free concerts featuring a diverse lineup, while “You Can’t Take It With You” debuts at Theatre Arlington, described as “one of the most popular and successful plays of all time,” according to the City of Arlington.
Wrapping up the plentiful menu of events, offerings range from Salsa at the Gardens and free teacher admission at the National Medal of Honor Museum, to environmental education at the W.A.T.E.R. Festival and a peek into the East Library and Recreation Center during their Open House. Sports fans can also ride the adrenaline high at Rally Days, Fight Night Live, or root for the home team as the Cowboys take on the Giants at AT&T Stadium. A bounty of activities guarantees that the American Dream City will have something for everyone this weekend.
