Arlington’s signature Independence Day celebration is getting bigger, brighter and more historic than ever. Light Up Arlington returns on Sunday, July 5, 2026, with an expanded fireworks and drone show.
This year’s celebration carries special meaning as Arlington celebrates its 150th anniversary and joins the nation in recognizing America’s 250th birthday. The enhanced production is being funded by the Arlington Tomorrow Foundation and will feature a larger fireworks display paired with a coordinated drone show, creating a one‑of‑a‑kind visual experience designed to commemorate these historic milestones. The show begins at 9:30 p.m. and will run approximately 18 to 20 minutes.
To accommodate the scale and technical requirements of this year’s expanded production, Light Up Arlington has been relocated to the Arlington Entertainment District. The new location provides the larger footprint needed for the tandem drone and fireworks operation, including increased launch space, enhanced safety buffers, and wider viewing areas.
The district also offers significantly more parking capacity and improved traffic flow, helping ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience for the larger crowds anticipated for this year’s celebration.
Fireworks and drones will be launched from the east side of Choctaw Stadium, 1000 Ballpark Way. The best viewing area for the show will be the grassy area surrounding Mark Holtz Lake, located near Choctaw Stadium and the National Medal of Honor Museum. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs. No glass bottles please.
Turn on your radio! Tune in to 95.9 The Ranch to hear the fireworks soundtrack synchronized with the show.
Parking
Free parking will be available in Texas Rangers Lots F, G, M and N.
Lots will open to public parking at 7 p.m. to allow for the traffic from that day’s baseball game to clear.
Texas Rangers Parking Map: https://www.mlb.com/rangers/ballpark/parking-and-rideshare
Additional Patriotic Activities
Visitors will find plenty to enjoy before the show. The National Medal of Honor Museum will remain open late on July 5 to welcome guests following the Texas Rangers game. Beginning at 7:30 p.m., the
U.S. Army’s First Cavalry Band will perform a 75‑minute concert celebrating the spirit of America. Families can also enjoy outdoor games on the museum lawns, along with special patriotic café menus.
The Arlington Museum of Art will also be open for visitors that evening, offering another cultural stop as part of the evening.
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This Fourth of July, Arlington is the place to be as we celebrate two historic milestones: America’s 250th birthday and Arlington’s 150th anniversary. Here’s a guide from Visit Arlington, Texas for an unforgettable Independence Day celebration in The American Dream City! https://bit.ly/4ag3WH1
This year’s celebration carries special meaning as Arlington celebrates its 150th anniversary and joins the nation in recognizing America’s 250th birthday. The enhanced production is being funded by the Arlington Tomorrow Foundation and will feature a larger fireworks display paired with a coordinated drone show, creating a one‑of‑a‑kind visual experience designed to commemorate these historic milestones. The show begins at 9:30 p.m. and will run approximately 18 to 20 minutes.
To accommodate the scale and technical requirements of this year’s expanded production, Light Up Arlington has been relocated to the Arlington Entertainment District. The new location provides the larger footprint needed for the tandem drone and fireworks operation, including increased launch space, enhanced safety buffers, and wider viewing areas.
The district also offers significantly more parking capacity and improved traffic flow, helping ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience for the larger crowds anticipated for this year’s celebration.
Fireworks and drones will be launched from the east side of Choctaw Stadium, 1000 Ballpark Way. The best viewing area for the show will be the grassy area surrounding Mark Holtz Lake, located near Choctaw Stadium and the National Medal of Honor Museum. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs. No glass bottles please.
Specific parking details will be announced closer to the event.
Turn on your radio! Tune in to 95.9 The Ranch to hear the fireworks soundtrack synchronized with the show!
